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Al Dente Diva » Recipes » Blog

CREAMY PANCETTA AND PEAS PASTA

April 24, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 2 Comments

Creamy pancetta and peas pasta is the ultimate comfort food made with crispy pancetta and peas in a creamy cheese sauce served over pasta.

Creamy pancetta and peas pasta

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This creamy pancetta and peas pasta is such an easy to put together and delicious dinner idea.

My family loves anything with pancetta in it. Those little crispy pieces of pork can make almost anything taste great.

Combine that with some pasta, sweet peas and a cheesy cream sauce and you've got yourself one home run dinner.

This recipe is always a big hit whenever I make it. It's graced many of our holiday parties, too. This recipe is simple but impressive enough to serve for celebrations like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

No need to wait for the holidays, though. We've also had this for lots of casual family dinners at home, too.

This dish does not require a lot of ingredients. The recipe itself is very simple but that doesn't mean its lacking in flavor.

In fact, I think it's just the opposite. The minimal ingredients really let the flavor of each one shine through.

Sometimes nothing hits the spot quite like a nice big bowl of warm comfort food like this.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.


Click HERE to order your copy or click the 3 lines in the top right corner and click “Book”. Thank you for the support.

Creamy Pancetta and Peas Variations

I like this recipe served just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Pasta- Use any kid of pasta that you would like for this recipe. It all works.
  • Pancetta- Many grocery stores carry pancetta but if you cant find it, bacon cut into small pieces would be okay to substitute.
  • Parmesan- Since there are so few ingredients in this recipe, its best to use freshly grated parmesan. Not only will it taste better, but it will melt into the cream sauce wonderfully, too. You can use powdered parmesan if you're in a pinch.

Other Easy Pasta Recipes

If you like super easy to make pasta dishes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • One Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta
  • Easy Caprese Pasta
  • Marry Me Pasta
  • Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Creamy Pancetta And Peas Pasta Ingredients

  • Bow tie pasta and pasta water
  • Pancetta, diced
  • Onion, diced
  • Garlic, chopped
  • Italian seasoning, Garlic Powder, Salt and Pepper
  • Peas, frozen
  • Parmesan cheese

Instructions

First, heat the pancetta in a large pan until crispy

Then add the onion, garlic and Italian seasoning.

Sauté that until the onion is soft.

Sautéed onion, garlic and Italian seasoning

Now add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese.

Then, stir in the peas and season the sauce with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Now add the cooked bow ties and a ladle of the pasta water to the sauce.

Now, toss the pasta into the sauce until the bow ties are evenly coated,

Finally transfer it to a serving dish and enjoy!

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Creamy Pancetta and Peas Pasta

Creamy pancetta and peas pasta is the ultimate comfort food made with crispy pancetta and peas in a creamy cheese sauce served over pasta.
No ratings yet
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Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Farfalle pasta (bow ties)
  • 1 ladle Pasta water
  • 1 5oz Pancetta, diced
  • ½ Onion, diced
  • 4 Cloves Garlic, diced
  • 1 Tbs Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 Tbs Garlic Powder
  • 1 Cup Heavy Cream
  • ¼ Cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
  • 1 9oz Peas, frozen

Instructions
 

  • Add the pancetta to a large skillet with a tall lip over medium high heat. Cook the pancetta, stirring occasionally, until its crispy
  • Now add the chopped onion, garlic and Italian seasoning. Saute until the onion is soft.
  • Add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is combined smoothly.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder then add the frozen peas.
  • Stir the peas into the sauce until they all break apart and thaw.
  • Add a ladle of cooked pasta water to the sauce and then add the pasta
  • ReSeason with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning if needed and serve warm.

Video

Keyword cramy pasta, pancetta and peas pasta

PINK MARINARA ALFREDO SAUCE

May 4, 2022 by Al Dente Diva Leave a Comment

This delicious pink marinara alfredo sauce takes traditional tomato sauce to the next level by combining it with some creamy alredo.

Pink Marinara Alfredo Sauce

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

What a fun spin on traditional tomato sauce this pink marinara alfredo sauce is. Otherwise known as Rosa sauce to some people.

This kind of sauce is a little new to me. I only heard about it a few years ago when introduced to it by a friend in conversation. Apparently mixing tomato and alfredo sauce has been a thing that people have been doing for a while now.

Where the heck have I been? I've been seriously missing out on this.

I've made this so many times since then that I can't even count.?The alfredo sauce really adds so much incredible flavor to the tomato sauce and It couldn't be easier to do. Espacially if you plan on using jarred alfredo like I do.

I always get compliments whenever I make this recipe for family and friends. They can never believe how delicious and easy it is.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know that you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Click HERE to order your copy or click the 3 lines in the top right corner and click “Book”. Thank you for the support.

Other easy pasta sauces

If you like super easy and delicious pasta sauces like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • One Pot Creamy Broocoli Pasta
  • Creamy pesto Alfredo sauce
  • Chicken Spaghetti
  • Marry Me Pasta

What does the pasta water do?

You’re going to see pasta water as an ingredient in this recipe. You might wonder why it’s necessary to add it.

Well, pasta water is literally the water that you’re pasta has been boiling in. Before you drain the water, reserve a ladle of the water to add to the sauce. The salty, starchy water is wonderful and here’s why:

  • The salty water adds flavor to the sauce. 
  • The starch thickens the sauce and also helps it stuck to the pasta. 

This little tip of adding pasta water works on almost every sauce. So give it a try next time. 

Pink Marinara Alfredo Sauce Ingredients

  • Jarred Alfredo sauce (I like Rao’s Homemade) Or use my homemade sauce HERE
  • Olive oil
  • Chopped onion
  • Chopped garlic
  • Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper
  • Crushed tomatoes
  • Ladle of pasta water
  • Pasta of choice

Instructions:

First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat and add the chopped onion, garlic and Italian seasoning.

Sauté that until the onion is soft and add the crushed tomatoes.

Then, season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder and more Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.

Next add the Alfredo sauce and stir it into the marinara.

Now simmer the two sauces together for about 5 minutes. ?

Add a ladle of pasta water to the sauce and stir it in.

pasta water going into tomato sauce

Lastly, add the pasta and stir it into the sauce.

Serve warm and enjoy!

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Pink Marinara Alfredo Sauce

Add a little Jarred Alfredo Sauce to this easy marinara recipe for a brand new delicious sauce.
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Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbs olive oil
  • ½ medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 tbs Italian seasoning (more if desired)
  • 1 28oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbs garlic powder (more if desired)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ jar prepared Alfredo Sauce
  • 1 box bowtie pasta
  • 1 ladle pasta water

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet with a tall lip, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the onion, garlic and Italian seasoning. Saute for about 2 minutes or until the onion is soft
  • Now add the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes stirring occasionally.
  • Then add the Alfredo Sauce and stir it into the crushed tomatoes. Taste the sauce and add more Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and garlic powder if you'd like. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes stirring occasionally.
  • Add a ladle of pasta water to the pink marinara Alfredo sauce and stir it in. Add the pasta to the sauce and stir until the pasta is coated in the sauce.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword alfredo sauce, pink alfredo sauce, pink marinara alfredo sauce, pink marinara sauce, pink sauce

Grilled Lemon and Dill Salmon Kebabs

May 6, 2022 by Al Dente Diva Leave a Comment

These colorful lemon and dill salmon kebabs are so easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Grilled Lemon and Dill Salmon Kebabs

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

If you’re looking for the perfect summer recipe these grilled lemon and dill salmon kebabs are it.

They’re so easy to put together and ready to hit the grill in no time, too.

lemon and dill salmon kebabs

This is the perfect summer recipe to bring to a bbq, Fourth of July party, Labor Day party or anywhere that people will be grilling.

Not only are they absolutely delicious but they’re really nice to look at, too. Just check out all those pretty colors.

Grilled lemon and dill salmon kebabs are of my all time favorite summer recipes. I also really love this grilled chicken thigh marinade and the best ever skirt steak marinade, too.

I just can’t get enough of the flavor combination. The salmon along with the lemon and dill just go so well together.

It’s such a nice light flavor without being overpowering to the fish.

Kebabs seem to just be made for grilling.

Nothing can give you that deliciously charred, smokey flavor like outdoor grilling can.

These grilled lemon and dill salmon kebabs are easy to make, look fantastic and are absolutely delicious!

Try them this summer and I know you’ll love them just as much as I do.

Try Serving these with some homemade tartar sauce on the side. So good!

Tips for grilling

There are a could of things you can do to make enhance the overall grilling experience when cooking these kebabs.

  • Skewers. Either use metal skewers or soak wooden ones in water for a few hours to prevent burning.
  • Oil. If you’re worried about the food sticking to the grill grates, brush them with some oil before grilling to crest a nice non stick surface.
  • Thermometer. Meat thermometers are a wonderful tool to have in general. It completely takes the guess work out of wondering when your food is done and prevents over cooking.
  • Veggies. End the kebab with a veggie like an onion. It will help secure everything on the skewer and prevent things from falling off.

What to serve with grilled lemon and dill salmon kebabs

This recipe has your protein and vegetables covered so that’s great!

I like serving these kebabs with rice oven roasted potatoes on the side.

A nice big salad is another great idea, too. Any potato, rice or salad would work very well.

Some homemade tartar sauce would be a really nice compliment, too!

What vegetables can I use?

The great thing about kebabs in general is that you can use pretty much any vegetable they can be skewered.

I love the flavor you get from grilling vegetables so much. I’ve tried a bunch of different combinations.

Vegetables being a lot of nice color into the kebabs, too!

Here are a few of my favorites:

  • Bell peppers
  • Red onion
  • White/ yellow onion
  • Zucchini
  • Squash
  • Mushrooms
  • Cherry tomatoes

Do I have to cook these lemon and dill salmon kebabs on the grill?

Technically, no.

This is you’re dinner and you’re the boss. If you don’t want to grill them, that’s completely up to you.

I would highly recommend it if you are willing and able to though.

The flavor that you get from grilling is just incredible for these salmon kebabs.

I love these charred pieces that you can only really get from cooking over a flame.

If you’d rather use a grill pan indoors or even a cast iron skillet, do it up.

2 zone grilling set up

I set my grill up for 2 zone grilling for these salmon kebabs. I have a Weber Kettle grill that takes charcoal.

If you’ve never heard of 2 zone grilling it’s easy enough. It pretty much just means one side of the grill that’s hot and one side of the grill that’s not.

Just add hot charcoal to only one side of the grill. The other side should have no charcoal at all.

I place the salmon kebabs over indirect heat (the side that has no charcoal) with the lid on for a few minutes to cook the salmon and veggies.

Then I place the kebabs over the direct heat for only a minute or two.

This lets me cook the kebabs and then just lightly char them. I love this because the food is never over cooked.

Grilled lemon and dill salmon kebab ingredients:

  • Salmon (cut into cubes)
  • Lemon juice (fresh)
  • Lemon zest
  • Dill (fresh)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic Powder
  • Vegetables of choice cut int 1 inch pieces. I used bell peppers, red onion & zucchini

Instructions:

First cut the salmon into small cubes. About 1.5 inches. I remove the skin because I don’t care for it. Feel free to leave the skin on if you’d like.

Now add the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, garlic powder and dill.

Then gently toss the salmon into the ingredients until each piece is evenly coated.

After that, cut the vegetables into 1.5 inch pieces also.

Now drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables in the olive oil and seasoning until they’re evenly coated.

Now place the salmon and vegetables onto the skewers.

Get creative here and add them however you’d like. I usually do 2 veggies , piece of salmon, and 2 veggies.

Next, set up your girl for 2 zone grilling. Place the skewers over the indirect heat for about 10 minutes with the lid on.

Then, move them over to the direct heat. Grill them on both sides for about 2 minutes. The salmon is done when it hits 145°.

Let them rest for about ⅔ minutes. Serve warm and enjoy. There go great with homemade tartar sauce, too!

lemon and dill salmon kebabs
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Grilled lemon and dill salmon kebabs

These easy to make grilled lemon and dill salmon kebabs are the perfect summer dinner.
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • wooden or metal skewers

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds Salmon (skin on or off. totally up to you)
  • 1 lemon juiced & zested
  • 2 tbs garlic powder (divided)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 tbs olive oil (divided)
  • 2-3 tbs fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 Bell Pepper, red
  • 1 Bell Pepper, orange
  • 1 Red onion
  • 1 zucchini

Instructions
 

  • If you're grilling, set the grill up for two zone grilling.
  • cut the salmon into 1-2 inch cubes and put them into a small bowl. Add half of the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, half of the garlic powder and fresh dill. Toss everything together and let it marinate for 30 minutes in the fridge.
  • Cut your vegetables up into about 1-2 inch pieces also. Drizzle them in olive oil and season them with salt and pepper.
  • Skewer the salmon and vegetables in whatever pattern you like. I usually do a piece of salmon, then two veggies and repeat that. I like to end with the red onion because I think it holds everything onto the skewer nicely.
  • Now place the kebabs on the indirect heat. Cover the grill and cook them for about 10 minutes. Then place the salmon kebabs on the direct heat for only about a minute or two on both sides. Once the salmon and veggies are a little charred and the fish reaches and internal temp of 145 degrees its done.
  • Let them cool slightly and serve warm. Enjoy.
Keyword grilled salmon kebabs, lemon and dill salmon kebabs, salmon and vegetable kebabs, salmon kebabs

Taco Bell Copycat Quesadilla Sauce

May 9, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 1 Comment

This easy to make Taco Bell copycat quesadilla sauce is the ultimate condiment to anything dunk-able.

Taco Bell Copycat Quesadilla Sauce

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This Taco Bell copycat quesadilla sauce really is the ultimate condiment.

It goes perfectly with so many things beyond just quesadillas, too. I loved it on my Beef Meximelt!

Taco Bell copycat quesadilla sauce

I’m a big fan of Taco Bell and love going there quesadillas and pretty much every single other thing that they offer.

The dipping sauces they serve there are addicting!

Making their Taco Bell quesadilla dipping sauce at home is so easy and just as delicious.

cheese quesadillas next to sauce

I’m a sucker for condiments in general and this one is an all time favorite.

It’s smooth, creamy and just a little bit spicy.

Never underestimate the power of a good dunking sauce. It can make or breaks the entire meal for me.

Other dipping sauces

If you’re addicted to condiments like I am I have a few more that I know you’d love.

quesadilla Dipping sauce
  • The Best Tartar Sauce
  • Boom Boom Sauce
  • Copycat Big Mac Sauc

These can be served with just about anything that’s dunk-able.

Adjusting the heat

This quesadilla sauce is easily adjustable to suit your taste.

If you’d like some more heat, add some more jalapeños. If you’d like less heat, add less.

jalapeños

It’s as simple as that so make it however you’d like to.

How to store quesadilla sauce

Store this quesadilla sauce in an air tight container in the fridge and it should last about 2 weeks.

quesadilla sauce ingredients:

quesadilla sauce ingredients
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sour cream
  • Jalapeños, minced
  • Salt
  • Sugar
  • Paprika
  • Cayenne
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder

Instructions

First, add the sour cream and mayonnaise to a medium sized bowl.

sour cream and mayonnaise in a bowl

Now add all the seasoning and sugar.

seasonings added to the sour cream and mayonnaise

Next, add the minced jalapeño. I used fresh but picked jalapeños work fantastic here if you’d like to use those.

chopped jalapeños added to the other ingredients

Then stir everything together.

quesadilla sauce ingredientes mixed together.

Serve immediately or pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

finished taco bell copycat quesadilla sauce

recipe video

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Taco Bell Copycat Quesadilla Sauce

This Taco Bell Copycat Quesadilla Sauce is the ultimate condiment for so many things
No ratings yet
Print Recipe
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tbs Jalapeno, minced pickled jalapeños work well here too if you'd rather use that
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Instructions
 

  • Add all of the ingredients to a medium sized bowl. If you'd like the sauce a little spicier, add a little more jalapeños
  • Stir everything together until its evenly combined.
  • Serve it immediately or store it in an air tight container in the fridge until you need it.
Keyword copycat sauce, quesadilla sauce, taco bell quesadilla sauce, taco bell sauce

Beef Meximelt

May 9, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 5 Comments

Spice up your normal taco night with a beef meximelt instead. They’re super cheesy and absolutely delicious.

Beef Meximelt

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

If you’ve ever had a Beef Meximelt before from Taco Bell consider yourself very lucky.

They removed it from their menu in 2019 and I was not okay with that decision at all.

finished beef meximelt

Unfortunately, no one at Taco Bell cares how I feel about it. So I was left with no choice but to make my own at home.

Thankfully the recipe is super easy so I can have them anytime I want.

beef meximelts done

Now keep in mind this is my version of a beef Meximelt.

I put my own spin on it of course. But it’s as close to the real deal as you can get.

There’s nothing worse then when a restaurant pulls and item that you love from their menu.

taco seasoned ground beef

If you’ve been missing the Taco Bell Beef Meximelt, too, I hope you give this recipe a try. Don't forget to dunk it into this Copy Cat Taco Bell Quesadilla sauce, too!

I know you’re going to love it!

More Dinner Ideas

If you like easy recipes like this one here are a few others you’ll love, too.

dorito taco pizza recipe suggestion
  • Dorito Taco Pizza
  • Semi Homemade Orange Chicken Tenders
  • Canned Tuna Cakes
  • Easy Cottage Pie

How to spice it up!

It’s very easy to spice these Meximelts up if you like the heat. Here are a few ways to do that:

opened jar of salsa with shredded cheese
  • Use Hot Salsa instead of mild
  • Replace either the cheddar or monetary jack cheese for pepper Jack
  • Add some diced jalapeños
  • Use a spicy/hot flavored taco seasoning packet

Try any one of those options or use them all together to get some real heat into this dish.

Do I really have to shred the cheese myself?

Yes, you absolutely have to shred the cheese yourself. 

It’s a must for this recipe. Don’t take a shortcut here and get the pre shredded cheese in a bag.

shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese

There’s all kinds of chemicals in there like cellulose that keep the cheese from clumping.

That anti clumping stuff is also going to stop the cheese from melting properly.

taco seasoned ground beef on top of shredded cheese and salsa

For this recipe to be the best, the cheeses need to be able to melt perfectly.

Take the extra time to shred the cheese yourself. It will be totally worth it.

Beef Meximelt Ingredients:

beef meximelt ingredients
  • Taco seasoning packet
  • Ground beef
  • Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Monetary jack cheese, shredded
  • Salsa
  • Tortillas

Instructions

First make the ground beef according to the instructions on the taco seasoning packet.

taco seasoned ground beef in skillet

Now lay down one tortilla.

large four tortilla

Lay some of the shredded cheddar and monetary jack cheese down on the tortilla.

flour tortilla with cheese

Then add some salsa.

flour tortilla with cheese and salsa

Next add some of the ground beef.

flour tortilla with cheese, salsa and taco seasoned ground beef

Now roll the tortilla up like a burrito. (See the below video if you need a visual.)

meximelt rolled up

Lay the beef Meximelt seam side down onto a hot cooking sprayed skillet.

mexielts getting browned in a pan

Toast the Meximelt over medium high heat until it’s nice and golden brown on both sides.

browned meximelts

You can also wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 30 seconds.

diagonally cut beef meximelts

Cut them on a diagonal and serve warm with Taco Bell Copycat Quesadilla Sauce.

stacked meximelts

Beef Meximelt recipe video

beef meximelt
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Beef Meximelt

A recreation of the incredible Beef Mexielt from Taco Bell.
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Course Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ground beef
  • 1 packet Taco seasoning
  • ½ cup Salsa (mild, medium or hot)
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monetary jack cheese, shredded
  • 4 large Flour Tortillas

Instructions
 

  • first, cook the ground beef according to the directions on the taco seasoning packet.
  • Now place the 4 large tortillas down. Add both of the cheeses down onto the tortilla. Try to distribute the cheese evenly between the 4 tortillas
  • Then evenly distribute the salsa on top of the cheese and do the same for the beef.
  • Roll the tortilla up like a burrito. Place them seam side down onto a hot pan that's been sprayed with cooking spray.
  • Cook the tortillas for just a minute or two on each side or until the tortilla browns.
  • Cut them on a diagonal and serve warm

Italian Chicken Nuggets

May 11, 2022 by Al Dente Diva Leave a Comment

Covered in crispy seasoned breadcrumbs and served with warm marinara sauce the whole family will love these Italian chicken nuggets.

Italian chicken nuggets

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Italian chicken nuggets are the unique recipe that the whole family will love.

I really mean that, too! These are absolutely delicious.

italian chicken nuggets cover photo

I feel like people generally assume that chicken nuggets are reserved for kids but that’s not necessarily true.

And these aren’t really even traditional chicken nuggets anyway.

italian chicken nuggets with marinara sauce

They’re pretty much just chicken cutlets cut into little bite size pieces with warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

The marinara sauce makes it!

I love making this family friendly recipe as a snack, side dish or main course.

fried chicken draining

My kids request that I make these all the time.

I’m sure If you give this recipe for Italian chicken nuggets a try you’ll love them just as my family does.

Dipping Sauces

I really love these with warm marinara sauce on the side. I have an awesome simple recipe for that HERE.

If marina sauce isn’t your thing, here are a few dipping sauces you might love, too.

nuggets dipped into sauce
  • Taco Bell Copycat Quesadilla Sauce (goes great with chicken)
  • Boom Boom Sauce
  • Copycat Big Mac Sauce
  • Copycat Chick-fil-A Sauce

If you like more simple sauces ketchup, bbq sauce and honey mustard are also great options.

What Chicken Should I Use?

I used the chicken tenderloins for this recipe but you can easily use breasts, too.

raw chicken tenderloins

I like tenderloins because it requires less cutting on my part. The tenderloins are the perfect width.

If you want to use breasts, just cut them into little cubes.

chicken tenderloins cut into pieces

Chicken thighs would absolutely work, too. Just do the same and cut them into pieces.

What Breadcrumbs Should I use?

I highly recommend Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for this recipe.

They are Italian chicken nuggets after all.

italian seasoned bread crumbs

You can find Italian seasoned breadcrumbs at any grocery store.

If you prefer panko breadcrumbs, you can use those as well. I just find that for these nuggets, the breadcrumbs are a bit too 'chunky,' if that makes sense.

chicken going into seasoned breadcrumbs

If you don’t have seasoned bread crumbs on hand, you can always use plain breadcrumbs and add some seasoning to them like this:

  • Parsley
  • Basil
  • Italian seasoning
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt & pepper.

What oil should I use?

Vegetable, canola or even peanut oil is the best for frying these chicken nuggets because they all have high smoke points.

vegetable oil

I prefer canola or vegetable oil personally. I feel like they both don’t have any flavor to them to transfer to the chicken itself.

Italian Chicken Nuggets Ingredients:

fried chicken nuggets
  • Chicken tenderloins
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • Canola oil/ vegetable oil

Instructions:

First, cut the chicken tenderloins into 1”-2” pieces.

cubed chicken tenderloins

Then generously season them with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

seasoned cubed chicken

Toss the chicken into the seasoning until it’s evenly coated.

mixing seasoning into the chicken

Now in one shallow bowl, beat together the eggs and milk. (Make an egg wash)

mixing egg wash

In another shallow bowl, add the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs.

seasoned bread crumbs

Next, in batches, take the pieces of chicken and dip them into to egg wash. Let the extra egg run off.

chicken dipped into the egg wash

Then place them into the breadcrumbs and toss them until they’re completely coated.

chicken dipped into the breadcrumbs

Now in a large lipped skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat.

vegetable oil going into the pan

Once it’s hot and ready, carefully add the chicken in batches. Don’t overload the pan.

chicken getting fried

Fry them on all sides until they’re golden brown. This should take only a few minutes on each side because they’re small.

nuggets browning

Once the chicken nuggets are cooked all the way through, remove them from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain.

nuggets draining on a paper towel

Let them cool slightly and place them in a serving dish.

friend italian chicken nuggets in a serving dish

Finally serve them with warm marinara sauce on the side and enjoy!

italian chicken nuggets and marinara sauce

What to serve with Italian chicken nuggets

This is entirely up to you of course but I do have some suggestions that I think would go together perfectly.

Here are a few:

  • The Best Shells & Cheese
  • One Pot Creamy Broccoli Pasta
  • Crispy Oven Roasted Potatoes
  • Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread
italian chicken nuggets
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Italian Chicken Nuggets

The whole family will love these Italian Chicken Nuggets with warm marinara sauce.
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Course Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbs garlic powder
  • 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • canola/ vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • cut the chicken into 1-2 inch cubes.
  • season the chicken with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Toss the chicken into the seasoning until its evenly coated.
  • In a shallow bowl, beat together the eggs and milk
  • in another shallow bowl, add the bread crumbs
  • dip the chicken pieces into the egg wash (let the extra egg run off) and then coat them in the breadcrumbs (shake off the extra breading, too)
  • Heat the oil over medium high heat in a tall lipped skillet and add the chicken to fry in batches
  • fry the chicken on both sides until its golden brown and cooked all the way through.
  • drain the chicken on either a wire rack or paper towels.
  • serve warm and with marinara sauce on the side for dunking.

Video

Keyword chicken nuggets, italian chicken, italian chicken nuggets

4 INGREDIENT PESTO CHICKEN

May 15, 2022 by Al Dente Diva Leave a Comment

This super easy 4 ingredient pesto chicken is made with just pesto, mozzarella cheese, tomatoes and chicken and is ready in just 30 minutes.

4 ingredient pesto chicken

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Dinner doesn’t get any easier then this 4 ingredient pesto chicken.

I absolutely love putting meals like this together. There’s nothing to it and dish looks so pretty and impressive when it’s served.

This is a great no fuss weekday dinner for the family. There is so much flavor in the chicken from the pesto that it tastes like you spend all day making it.

That couldnt be farther from the truth. This is one of the most simple recipes that I have to share and its ready in just 30 minutes.

The melted mozzarella cheese and stewed tomatoes really just set this recipe up to be an absolute winner.

If happen to be watching your carbohydrate intake, then this is something you’d especially like, too. Its a wonderful low carb option if youre looking for one,

But you dont have to be minding your carbs to enjoy this delicious dinner. My whole family loves this recipe. Even my picky middle school aged boys.

I hope you give this recipe a try. I know that if you do, you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Click HERE to order your copy or click the 3 lines in the top right corner and click “Book”. Thank you for the support. 

Other easy chicken dinner ideas

If you like no fuss chicken recipes like this one, here are some more ideas that I know you will love.

  • Ginny's Chicken
  • Creamy Chicken Costoletta
  • Baked Buttered Chicken Drumsticks
  • Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

What to serve with 4 ingredient pesto chicken

This is a great recipe because it can go with so many different things. So any side dish that youd like to serve this with will probably work great.

Any pasta, rice or potato would be fantastic with your choice of vegetable.

If you are looking for some ideas, here are a few recipes that would be good side dish selections.

  • Marry Me Pasta
  • Crispy smashed potatoes
  • Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
  • Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

How’d you get the chicken breast so thin?

People always ask me how I get the chicken breast so thin for certain recipes.

It’s nothing special that I’m doing, I promise. I buy them this way!

thinly sliced chicken

They carry thinly sliced chicken breast by Perdue at my local grocery store.

If you can’t find them sliced thin like this, a simple butterflying with a sharp knife then pounding them thin with a mallet will do the trick.

Of course if you’d like to keep them on the thick side that’s completely up to you. Just allow more time for the chicken to cook through when it’s being baked.

The internal temperature should reach 165° in the thickest part of the chicken breast to be done and read to eat.

Recipe swap outs

Sometimes we don’t have what we need for a recipe or just plain don’t want to use it and thats completely fine.

Here are some alternatives to these simple ingredients.

beefsteak tomato
  • Chicken- Instead of chicken breast, use chicken tenderloins or skinless thighs.
  • Cheese- The “wet” mozzarella can be substituted for any other type of mozzarella cheese. If you’d rather another kind of cheese parmesan, Swiss, Gruyère, or Asiago would be great.
  • Tomato- Beef steak tomato I’m not the only kind that you can use. Pick whatever you’d like. Even cherry tomatoes would work well.
  • Basil- don’t have fresh basil? That’s no problem, dry basil would be just fine.

4 ingredient pesto chicken ingredients

Pesto chicken ingredients
  • Pesto
  • Fresh mozzarella
  • Slices tomato
  • Thinly sliced chicken breast
  • Salt, pepper, garlic powder (optional)
  • Shredded fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

First, place the chicken down onto a baking sheet & season it on both sides with salt, pepper and garlic powder. This is optional but recommend. The pesto has a lot of flavor to it but if you’d like a little more, season it first.

Now spread the pesto sauce on both sides of the chicken.

Next, add the fresh mozzarella on top of the chicken.

Then top with the sliced tomato. I like to lightly salt and pepper the tomato, too.

Bake at 375° for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the chicken is fully cooked.

Serve warm with the recommended sides from above or choose your own. Enjoy!

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4 ingredient pesto chicken
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4 Ingredient Pesto Chicken

This 4 ingredient pesto chicken is a perfect, no fuss weekday dinner recipe.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian

Equipment

  • 9" x 13" baking dish

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken breast, thin
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tbs garlic powder
  • ½ cup pesto
  • 1 beef steak tomato, sliced thin
  • 8-10 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
  • fresh basil, shredded (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees
  • Put the chicken down in the baking dish and season it with the salt, pepper and garlic powder on both sides.
  • Add the pesto and rub it onto the chicken until its lightly coated on both sides.
  • Arrange the chicken in the baking dish side by side in a single layer
  • Add a slice or two of the mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken
  • Now add a slice or two of the tomato on top of the cheese. Lightly season with salt and pepper
  • Sprinkle shredded basil on top and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked all the way through.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword 4 ingredient dinner, easy chicekn dinner, pesto chicken, pesto mozzarella tomato chicken

HOMEMADE GARLIC BREAD

May 17, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 2 Comments

This homemade garlic bread is made with seasoned garlic butter perfectly melted into toasted Italian bread for an incredibly delicious appetizer or snack.

Homemade Garlic Bread

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Theres nothing better then a nice big toasty piece of homemade garlic bread. It may just be the perfect thing to compliment any meal.

Bread and butter are such a classic combination that everyone loves. Now, season that butter up, slather it onto some sliced bread and toast it in the oven and you've just made something good even better.

Whenvever I've been out to dinner with family and friends, the garlic bread is always our favorite part of the meal. That basket of bread goes fast!

This recipe tastes just like the kind that you'd get served at a restaurant. And let me just warn you, this will go fast, too.

garlic bread finished

Besides this being a fantastic appetizer to any meal, it's also super easy to make, too. This recipe can be whipped up in just 20 minutes with very minimal effort.

I've made this appetizer for holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving and also for casual family dinners at home.

spreading butter on garlic bread

Everyone loves it and it's always a huge hit. I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and friends do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? t’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Click HERE to order your copy or click the 3 lines in the top right corner and click “Book”. Thank you for the support.

Homemade Garlic Bread Variations

I love this recipe for garlic bread made just as it is, but here are some ways to change it up.

  • Bread- Any loaf of bread would work for this recipe not just Italian bread.
  • Cheese- Add some parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese to the top for the ultimate cheesy garlic bread.

Other Easy Bread Recipes

If you like easy to make bread recipes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Easy, Cheesy Garlic Bread
  • Cheesy Sausage Bread
  • Hawaiian Roll Cheesy Garlic Bread
  • Cheesy Pesto Bombs

Homemade garlic butter ingredients

garlic bread ingredients
  • Italian bread
  • Butter (room temperature)
  • Garlic, minced
  • Dried oregano
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Olive oil
  • Salt, Pepper and Garlic Powder

Instructions

First, slice the Italian bread horizontally and once down the middle and add the pieces of bread to a baking sheet.

Now, in a small bowl, mix together the butter, olive oil, parsley, garlic, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper.

mixing the ingredients into the butter

Then, spread the butter evenly on top of each piece of bread.

Next, place it in the oven and bake the bread for about 15 minutes or until the bread is nice and toasted and the garlic butter is melted.

Finally, slice the bread about 2” thick and serve warm or room temperature.Enjoy!

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Homemade Garlic Bread

This homemade garlic bread is made with seasoned garlic butter perfectly melted into toasted Italian bread for an incredibly delicious appetizer or snack.
No ratings yet
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Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Italian

Equipment

  • baking sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf Italian bread
  • 1 stick Butter (room temperature)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon oregano, dried
  • 2 tbs fresh parsley, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbs olive oil

Instructions
 

  • preheat the oven to 375.
  • slice the Italian bread down the middle vertically then again horizontally. This will make 4 pieces. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet.
  • in a small bowl, stir together the butter, garlic, fresh parsley and all of the seasonings.
  • Spread the butter mixture evenly over the top of each piece of bread
  • Bake for about 15 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the butter is melted.
  • Slice and enjoy!

Video

Keyword homemade garlic bread

STUFFED SAUSAGE AND PEPPERS

May 20, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 8 Comments

These easy stuffed sausage and peppers are made by placing mozzarella cheese inside sweet Italian sausage and baking them over sautéed peppers and onions in a flavorful tomato sauce and provolone cheese until hot and bubbly.

Stuffed Sausage And Peppers

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These stuffed sausage and peppers are such a delicious and easy to make meal that the whole family is sure to love.

This recipe is such a fun spin on the traditional Italian dinner. Especially, with all of that ooey gooey cheese stuffed inside the sausages.

We grew up eating sausage and pepper dinners all the time as kids. My Mother used to make it for us over a nice big bowl of spaghetti or on a fresh club roll. Shes even served this to us over some white rice on occasion.

It's a recipe that I've been making myself for as long as I can remember, too. However, I only started doing it this way a few years ago. I had seem this done on social media and knew immediately that I needed to give this version a try.

What a huge hit it was right off the bat! My whole family loved it so much that we wound up making it a part of our monthly dinner menu rotation.

Usually we made this recipe with sweet Italian sausage. That was it isnt too spicy for my kids to enjoy but you can absolutely make this using spicy sausage, too. Or even do a mix of sweet and spicy if you'd like.

Personally, I like a little heat but its great however you choose to make it. We've made it lots and lots of times and many different versions and everyones always very happy with any one of them.

This is a delicious, easy to make dinner thats perfect for a busy weeknight.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Stuffed Sausage And Peppers Variations

I like this recipe for sausage and peppers made just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Sausage- Use hot or sweet Italian Sausage. They both work wonderfully here.
  • Sauce- Try a homemade tomato sauce or jarred if you prefer. I have a very easy and delicious recipe for Italian Tomato Sauce that you can access by clicking HERE.
  • Vegetables- Try to use different color bell peppers to add a little color the dish. Sliced mushrooms are also a great addition, too,

Other Italian Dinner Recipes

If you like quick and easy Italian dinners like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • The best vodka sauce
  • Classic chicken cutlets
  • One pot creamy broccoli pasta
  • Creamy pancetta and peas pasta

Stuffed sausage and peppers ingredients

  • Italian Sausage (sweet or hot)
  • Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
  • Onion, sliced thin
  • Bell Peppers, sliced thin
  • Garlic, minced
  • Marinara Sauce
  • Provolone Cheese
  • Olive Oil
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees

First, add some tomato sauce to the bottom of a 9x13" inch baking dish.

Now, saute the sliced peppers and onion in a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Then, once the vegetables are soft, add the minced garlic and continue to cook them for another 1-2 minutes.

Then, add the sauted peppers and onions to the baking dish and spread them out evenly on top of the sauce.

Next, slice the middle of the sausage long ways but not completely through and add either a whole mozzarella cheese stick or half (depending on how big the sausage you're using is) to the center of the sausage.

Then, wrap the sausage closed around the mozzarella stick and place them on top of the bed of sausage and peppers seam side up.

Next, drizzle the top with a little more sauce and cover the sausages with provolone cheese.

Now, cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 400° for 45 minutes or until the sausage is cooked all the way through.

Finally, serve hot over pasta, rice, in a roll or solo and enjoy.

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Stuffed Sausage and Peppers

These easy stuffed sausage and peppers are made by placing mozzarella cheese inside sweet Italian sausage and baking them over sautéed peppers and onions in a flavorful tomato sauce and provolone cheese until hot and bubbly.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds Italian Sausage, hot or sweet
  • 8 Mozzarella String Cheese
  • 2. ½ cups Marinara Sauce
  • 1 small Green Bell Pepper, sliced thin
  • 1 small Orange Bell Pepper, sliced thin
  • 1 large Onion, sliced thin
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 6 slices Provolone Cheese
  • 2 tbs Olive Oil
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees
  • Line a 9x 13" inch baking dish with about 2 cups of marinara sauce
  • Saute the sliced peppers and onion in a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  • Once the vegetables are soft, add the minced garlic and continue to cook them for another 1-2 minutes.
  • Add the sauted peppers and onions to the baking dish and spread them out evenly on top of the sauce.
  • Slice the middle of the sausage long ways but not completely through and add either a whole mozzarella cheese stick or half (depending on how big the sausage you're using is) to the center of the sausage.
  • Wrap the sausage closed around the mozzarella stick and place them on top of the bed of sausage and peppers seam side up.
  • Drizzle the top with the rest of the sauce and cover the sausages with provolone cheese.
  • Tightly cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 400° for 45 minutes or until the sausage is cooked all the way through.
  • Serve hot over pasta, rice, in a roll or solo and enjoy.

Video

Keyword stuffes sausage and peppers

4 INGREDIENT CHERRY DANISH

May 24, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 10 Comments

This easy 4 ingredient cherry danish is made using cherry pie filling, premade crescent roll dough and sweetened cream cheese.

4 Ingredient Cherry Danish

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Did you know a 4 ingredient cherry danish recipe even existed?

I’m only asking because I always assumed making danishes was a fairly complicated process.

4 ingredient cherry danish cover

I’m sure If you’re making them from scratch they are. But we take short cuts around here!

Using Pillsbury Crescent Rolls cuts major corners. It’s the perfect buttery base for this cherry and cream cheese danish.

I’m not an awesome baker and I’m completely okay admitting that. It’s never really been my thing.

finished cherry danish

Simple recipes like this are perfect for me. They’re super easy to do and are pretty much fool proof.

I love these 4 ingredient cherry danishes for breakfast, as a snack, for dessert or whatever.

cherry danish

It’s kind of an anytime food.

These are such a delicious no fuss recipe. I know if you try them you’ll love them as much as I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? 

It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Click HERE to order your copy or click the 3 lines in the top right corner and click “Book”. Thank you for the support.

Other Simple Desserts

If you like simple semi homemade desserts like this one here are a few others you’ll be sure to love, too.

cinnamon roll apple pies
  • Mini banana cream pies
  • Cinnamon roll apple pies
  • Warm chocolate chip cookie skillet
  • 3 ingredient blueberry cobbler

Tips to make this recipe its best

This 4 ingredient cherry danish recipe is very easy to follow.

But there are some little things that you can do to make sure it’s at it’s absolutely best.

cherry danish

Here are some tips:

  • Cream Cheese- make sure the cream cheese is softened. That will make it much easier to spread into the crescent rolls.
  • Sugar- don’t substitute the powdered regular sugar here. The cream cheese will be gritty not smooth and the texture will be way off.
  • Pie Filling- spoon the pie filling into a little divot on top of the cream cheese if you like the look of them being uniform. I actually prefer the kinda sloppier more random plops of cherry pie filling but that’s a great tip if you don’t.

4 ingredient cherry danish filling variations

So, I happen love cherry pie filling.

It’s my favorite and that’s why I chose it for this Danish recipe here.

cherry pie filling

If you want to switch that out, be my guest.

Any fruit pie filling would be amazing here. Here are some suggestions:

apple pie filling
  • Apple
  • Blueberry
  • Blackberry
  • Strawberry

Get creative and use whatever you’d like.

How to store these cherry danishes

These cherry danishes are best kept in the fridge.

Try to put some plastic wrap on them to keep them nice and moist.

cherry danish

They can keep fresh in the fridge for up to ⅘ days.

4 ingredient cherry danish ingredients:

  • Pillsbury crescent rolls
  • Cherry pie filling
  • Powdered sugar
  • Cream cheese

Instructions

First take the pillsbury crescent rolls out of the container. DO NOT unroll them. Keep in in one big log.

crescent rolls in tube

Now slice them into about ½ inch rounds. This should make about 7-8 portions.

crescent rolls cut

Then lay them down on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

crescent rolls on parchment paper

Using your fingers, make a dip in the center. Keep the edges tall so the fillings will stay inside.

crescent rolls with centers pushed down

Now mix the cream cheese and powdered sugar together.

cream cheese and powdered sugar

Take about a tablespoon and a half and place it in the center of the crescent roll round.

placing cream cheese mixture the center of the crescent rolls

Then take about a tablespoon of the cherry pie filling and place it on top of the cream cheese.

Cherry pie filing on top of the cream cheese

Bake them in the oven at 375° for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is lightly golden brown.

finished cherry danishes on parchment paper

Let them cool slightly and serve warm.

finished danishes

4 ingredient cherry danish
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4 Ingredient Cherry Danish

This 4 ingredient cherry danish recipe is super easy to make and absolutely delicious. Its makes the perfect breakfast, snack or dessert.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
  • 7-8 tbs Cherry Pie Filling
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
  • 4 tbs Powdered Sugar

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375
  • Open the can of crescent rolls and keep them whole. DO NOT unroll them- keep it in a log shape
  • Using a sharp knife, slice them into equal rounds about ½ inch thick. This should make about 7-8.
  • Place them down on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Using your fingers, push the center down. Be sure to leave a lip on the outside so the filling stays inside.
  • Now mix the cream cheese and powdered sugar together. Place about a tablespoon and a half into the center of each crescent roll.
  • Now add about a tablespoon of cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese
  • Bake them for about 12-15 minutes or until the crescent rolls are lightly browned.
  • serve warm or at room temperature and enjpy.
Keyword 4 ingredient danish recipe, cherry danish, easy danish recipe

HAWAIIAN ROLL CHEESEBURGER SLIDERS

May 28, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 17 Comments

I have a trick to these easy Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders that make them the perfect crowd pleasing dinner.

Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito.

These Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders really are the perfect weekday dinner.

My family loves this recipe and I do too.

Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders

They’re so easy to make and require minimal effort. That’s my kind of dinner!

This is a great way to make a bunch of cheeseburgers at one time. Perfect for a hungry crowd.

They taste a little bit like White Castle sliders to me. I haven’t had those in a long time but I used to love those burgers!

finished cheeseburger sliders

The Kings Hawaiian Rolls for this recipe make the perfect portioned out servings.

I feel like anything made on these rolls turns to gold immediately. They’re just so good!

finished cheeseburger sliders

If you want to make these Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders even better try them with some Boom Boom Sauce and some Garlic Parmesan Fries.

I know if you give these a try that you’ll love them too!

What to serve with these Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders

Sides are of course always up to you but I do have some suggestions you may like.

Oven roasted potatoes would be great. So would any kind of potato wedge or French fry.

crispy oven roasted potatoes

Roasted parmesan broccoli is a great vegetable side dish option or choose any vegetable you’d like.

Another good idea is a nice big house salad. Any of these would be perfect.

Tips for the best Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders.

These Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders are so easy to make.

cheeseburger sliders

There are a couple things you can do to be sure they’re at their best.

  • Fat- be sure to drain the fat from the ground beef after it’s browned. This will prevent the burgers from being overly greasy.
  • Cheese- take the cheese out of the fridge while you’re browning the beef. This will help the cheese get to room temperature so it can melt easier in the oven.
  • Cheese Barrier- placing the cheese slices down on the top and the bottom of the Hawaiian rolls will create a barrier for grease. This way the rolls won’t get soggy.
  • Shredded Cheese- adding a little shredded cheese to the ground beef will also keep the beef from being too loose and falling out all over the place.

Can you make these Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders ahead?

Yes, you can make these ahead.

Put them together as the directions say but do not add the melted butter topping.

top of Hawaiian rolls

Save that for right before you’re going to bake them.

These can be made up to a day or two ahead of when you’re going to serve them.

Hawaiian roll cheeseburger slider ingredients

hawaiian roll cheeseburger slider ingredients
  • Kings Hawaiian Rolls
  • Onion powder
  • Ground beef
  • Shredded cheese
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt & pepper
  • American cheese slices
  • Butter
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

First, add the beef to a large skillet over medium high heat. Using a wooden spoon/ spatula break the meat up into small pieces.

ground beef

Cook it until all the pieces are browned.

Now turn off the heat and drain the fat from the pan.

grease from ground beef

Then add some Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt and pepper. If you want to add any additional seasonings do it now.

Worcestershire sauce added to ground beef

Next, add the shredded cheese and stir it into the beef.

shredded cheese added to ground beef

Now slice the package of Hawaiian rolls horizontally. Place the top half off to the side keeping the rolls intact.

open Hawaiian rolls

On the bottom portion of the Hawaiian rolls, add the American cheese slices. Make sure the cheese covers the rolls completely. This will make a barrier so no trapped grease makes them soggy.

cheese on rolls

Then add the ground beef to the top of the cheese. Spread it out evenly.

beef on top of cheese

Next, add more slices of American cheese to to top of the beef.

cheese on top of beef

After that, add the top portion of the Hawaiian rolls.

Hawaiian roll tops

Then melt the butter and brush it on top of the rolls.

buttering the top of rolls

Now immediately sprinkles the sesame seeds on top.

sesame seeds on the butter

Finally cover it with tin foil and bake at 350° for about 10-12 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.

oven set to 350

Serve warm and enjoy.

finished Hawaiian rolls

Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders
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Hawaiian Roll Cheeseburger Sliders

These Hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders are the perfect crowd pleasing dinner
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • Parchment Paper
  • baking sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds Ground Beef
  • 1 package Kings Hawaiian Rolls
  • 8-10 slices American Cheese
  • ¼ cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • Salt & Pepper To Taste
  • 2 tbs Onion Powder
  • 3 tbs Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 tbs Butter, Melted
  • 2 tbs Sesame Seeds

Instructions
 

  • Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally down the center and place the intact top off to the side. Place the bottom half onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet.
  • Put half of the American cheese slices down onto the bottom half of the rolls. Make sure they cover the bottom of the rolls completely.
  • Brown the ground beef over medium high heat. Drain any accumulated fat from the pan and return it to the stove with the heat off.
  • Season the beef with salt, pepper, onion powder and Worcestershire sauce then add the shredded cheese. Stir it all together until its evenly combined.
  • Add the beed mixture to cheese topped rolls then add another layer of American cheese slices to the top.
  • Place the top of the rolls back on to the burgers and brush the tops with the melted butter
  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds and bake at 350 for about 10-12 minutes or until the bread is golden browned
  • Serve warm and enjoy!!
Keyword cheeseburger sliders, hawaiian roll cheeseburger sliders, hawaiian roll recipe

Ham and Swiss Crescent Rolls

May 22, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 3 Comments

The butter topping on these warm ham and swiss crescent rolls make them the most irresistible grab and go snack.

Ham and Swiss Crescent Rolls

I can’t say enough good things about these ham and Swiss crescent rolls.

They may just be the most perfect grab and go snack of all time.

ham and swiss crescent rolls cover

Whenever I make these my family usually devours them within a couple of hours.

They’re almost impossible to stop eating. If you think I’m kidding, I’m not!

ham and swiss crescent rolls plated

Ham and Swiss cheese is such a delicious classic flavor combination.

Wrap some warm buttery Pillsbury crescent rolls around that and brush it with a glaze and you’ll see for yourself. Irresistible!

baked ham and swiss crescent rolls

I love to make these ham and Swiss crescent rolls as an after school snack but they’re also great for a quick lunch or dinner, too.

I know if you give this recipe a try you’ll love it just as much, too.

Other Pillsbury Recipes:

If you like the convenience of premade doughs, here are some other recipes you’ll love.

mini cinnamon roll apple pies
  • Doritos Taco Pizza
  • Cheesy Garlic Bread
  • Cinnamon Roll Apple Pies
  • Breakfast Crescent Rolls

Ham and Swiss recipe variations

The great thing about these crescent rolls is how versatile they are.

Here are some variations that would be amazing to try.

Pillsbury sweet Hawaiian crescent rolls

Just remember that that recipes like this can be used as a guide. If you’d like to swap something out, go for it and make it your own.

  • Deli Meat- the ham here can be swapped out for really any other deli meat that you’d like. Turkey, roast beef, chicken, salami, pepperoni or any other meat of your choice.
  • Cheese- the Swiss cheese can be changed for whatever you’d like also. Cheddar, American, provolone are all great options. Pick your favorite.
  • Crescent Rolls- I used the Pillsbury Hawaiian crescent rolls for this recipe. The original crescent rolls would be just fine here too if you’re not into the Hawaiian.
  • Mustard- the Dijon mustard in the glaze recipe can be replaced for spicy or yellow.
  • Everything Bagel Seasoning- I used this seasoning in the glaze recipe but If you don’t have it it’s no big deal. Either omit it or replace it for poppy or even sesame seeds would work.
  • Glaze - I added a glaze to to top here for some extra favor. Omit that if you just want to keep it simple. They will taste just as good!
everything but the bagel seasoning

Ham and Swiss crescent rolls ingredients

ham and swiss crescen rolls ingredients
  • Pillsbury Hawaiian Crescent rolls
  • Ham
  • Swiss
  • Butter
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Everything bagel seasoning
  • Dijon mustard

Instructions

First, open the crescent rolls and roll out the individual triangles.

rolled out crescent rolls

Now place a slice of rolled up Swiss cheese on the largest part of the triangle.

rolled swiss on crescent roll

Then add a slice of rolled up ham on top of the Swiss cheese.

rolled ham on crescent roll

After that, roll the crescent roll from the wide bottom up to the top.

ham and swiss rolled up

Place them on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

ham and swiss crescent rolls about to be baked

Bake them at 375° for about 8 minutes.

oven set to 375 degrees

Then to make the glaze, melt the butter in the microwave.

melted butter in a bowl

Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper and everything bagel seasoning.

melted butter with other ingredients

Now add the Dijon mustard and stir everything together.

stirring the butter glaze

Next brush the glaze on top each ham and cheese crescent roll.

crescent rolls with the glaze on top

Bake them again for another 5-8 minutes or until the Crescent rolls are nice and golden brown.

finished ham and cheese crescent rolls

Finally remove them from the baking sheet and serve warm. Enjoy!

Ham and Swiss crescent rolls recipe video:

ham and swiss crescent rolls
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Ham and Swiss Crescent Rolls

These ham and swiss crescent rolls are so easy to make and the perfect grab and go snack
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Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can Pillsbury Hawaiian Crescent Rolls
  • 8 slices Ham
  • 8 slices Swiss Cheese
  • ¼ cup Melted Butter
  • 1 tbs Dijon Mustard
  • 1.5 tbs Everything Bagel Seasoning
  • 1 tbs Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees
  • Unroll the crescent rolls out into their individual triangles and lay them down flat
  • Roll up one slice of Swiss cheese and one slice of ham and place them on the wide end of the triangle
  • Starting at the same widest part, roll the crescent rolls up and place them on a parchment paper lined baking sheet
  • Bake them for 8 minutes
  • In a small bowl, melt the butter and add the Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder and everything bagel seasoning,
  • Brush the butter mixture on top of the crescent rolls and bake them for another 5-8 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted
  • serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword ham and swiss crescent rolls, ham and swiss snack, pillsbury recpie

Garlic Parmesan Fries

June 1, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 2 Comments

Garlic parmesan fries are made using a bag of frozen french fries, fresh garlic, parmesan cheese and just a few other simple ingredients for an easy and flavorful side dish.

Garlic Parmesan Fries

You are going to absolutely love these garlic parmesan fries. They are loaded with flavor and super easy to make, too.

I love making these fries for BBQ's and dinners at home because they go perfectly with so many things. Especially burgers, hot dogs and anything coming off a hot grill.

This simple side dish is also a favorite of ours for movie nights and game days. Usually served with a variety of dipping sauces so my guests can experiment with some fun different flavors.

Using frozen fries for this recipe is a huge time saver, too. Which makes this side dish a go to recipe of mine for busy weekday dinners.

seasoned garlic Parmesan fries

My only complaint is that whenever I make these fries, my family usually goes right for them ignoring the meal they're being served with. I have to remind them to not fill up on these because theres other food to eat, too.

I really cant blame them, though. These fries couldn't be more delicious and are kinda hard to stop eating once you stop. My family would eat these with every meal if I let them, I know it.

fries on baking sheet

I hop you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know that you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious?
It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Click HERE to order your copy or click the 3 lines in the top right corner and click “Book”. Thank you for the support.
Other easy appetizers and side dishes.

Garlic parmesan fries variations

I love this recipe as it is but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Fries- Use any kid of fries that you'd like for this recipe fresh, or frozen. Sweet Potato fries even work for this one so choose your favorite.
  • Oil- Add and kind of truffle oil instead of regular olive oil to add more flavor to the fries.
  • Spice- If you'd like to add some heat to this dish, season the fries with a little cayenne pepper and hot pepper flakes for a little kick.
  • Cooking- Make the fries however you'd like. They're great air fried or baked, too. Its completely up to you.

Other easy side dishes

If you like easy to make side dishes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Mini Loaded Baked Potatoes
  • Easy Ranch Potatoes
  • Pepperoni Pizza Fries

Garlic Parmesan Fries ingredients list

garlic Parmesan fries ingredients
  • Frozen fries
  • Olive oil
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Minced garlic
  • Fresh parsley
  • Salt, pepper and garic powder

Instructions

First, make the fries according to the directions on the package.

frozen fries

I chose to bake mine, so I placed them in a single layer on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

frozen fries on baking sheet

Then baked them in a 400° oven for about 15-20 min. Just until they were golden brown.

fries over oven

Now keep them on the baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Truffle oil would be amazing here too if you have it.

baked French fries

Next, season the fries with the salt, pepper and garlic powder.

seasoned French fries

Then add the chopped parsley, Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.

fries being seasoned

Toss everything together on the baking sheet.

seasoned fries

Finally, transfer them to a serving dish and serve with Boom Boom Sauce or any dipping sauce of your choice.

plated French fries
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Garlic Parmesan Fries

Here's a great way to take a bag of frozen French fries to the next level with these delicious Garlic Parmesan Fries
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Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, French

Equipment

  • Parchment Paper
  • baking sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 26oz bag Frozen French Fries
  • 3 tbs Olive Oil
  • 2 tbs Garlic Powder
  • Salt & Pepper To Taste
  • 3 cloves Galic, Minced
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese
  • 2 tbs Fresh Parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • First, make the fries according to the directions on the back on the package. I baked mine but make yours however you'd like.
  • Drizzle the fries with olive oil and season them with garlic powder, salt and pepper.
  • Then add the fresh parsley, minced garlic and parmesan cheese.
  • Toss everything tougher and transfer them to a serving dish. Enjoy!
Keyword Frozen fries recipe, Garlic Parmesan Fries

3 INGREDIENT CHILI DIP

June 2, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 16 Comments

3 ingredient chili dip is an effortless, crowd pleasing appetizer made with just cream cheese, chili and shredded cheddar cheese.

3 Ingredient Chili Dip

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

You will not believe how incredibly delicious this 3 ingredient chili dip is.

It's actually kinda crazy that this magic can be made by using so few ingredients. Not only is this dip made using pantry staples, but its super easy to put together, too.

Most of us have had the pleasure of eating this before at some point or another. Most likely at a party or get together where people were swarmed around it. I remember the first time I had this and immediately asked for the recipe.

We've been making this dip for decades now and it never ever gets old. It really is a tried and true recipe that is always a guaranteed hit.

This dip recipe has been served at countless family parties, get togethers and even a few holidays. Forget about Football Sundays. There hasn't bee a appetizer invented thats better than this for watching a football game.

Sometimes simple is best and this recipe is a wonderful example of that. The canned chili is a huge time saver but if you've got some leftover chili, this would be a great use for it, too.

Make this for your next party and watch as the serving dish gets scraped completely clean.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Click HERE to order your copy or click the 3 lines in the top right corner and click “Book”. Thank you for the support.

3 Ingredient Chili Dip Variations

I like this chili dip made just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Chili- Use any brand of chili that you'd like or your favorite homemade recipe. I have a great Homemade Chili recipe if you need one. Also, I do think this dip tastes better using the chili with the beans, but you can use a chili without beans if you'd prefer.
  • Cheese- Any kid of cheese would be ok to use here so choose your favorite. Just be sure to shred the cheese yourself because it will melt must better that way.

Other Easy Dip Recipes

If you like super easy to make dip recipes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • 3 Ingredient Veggie Ranch Dip
  • Layered Taco Dip
  • Sunday Funday Dip
  • Hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip
  • 4 Ingredient Hot Artichoke Dip

3 Ingredient Chili Dip Ingredients

  • Cream Cheese
  • Hormel Chili with the Beans
  • Cheddar Cheese, Hand Shredded

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

First, in a small baking dish, add the cream cheese and spread it evenly over the bottom.

Now, add the can of chili and spread that evenly over the cream cheese.

Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the chili.

Now, cover it and place it into the center rack of the oven for about 20 minutes. If you like the cheese less creamy and more kind of crispy bake it uncovered. It’s totally up to you.

Finally, let it cool slightly, garnish with parsley (optional) and serve hot with tortilla chips. Enjoy!

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3 Ingredient Chili Dip

3 ingredient chili dip is an effortless, crowd pleasing appetizer made with just cream cheese, chili and shredded cheddar cheese.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 15 Oz Hormel Chili with the Beans
  • 8 Oz Cream Cheese
  • 1.5 Cups Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
  • In a small baking dish, spread the cream cheese down evenly, then top it with the chili and shredded cheese.
  • Cover and place it into the center rack of the oven for about 20 minutes or until the dip is hot an bubbly
  • Let it cool slightly, garnish with parsley (optional) and serve with Tostito chips

Video

Keyword 3 ingredient chili dip, 3 ingredient dip, chili dip

Chunky Bleu Cheese Dressing

June 5, 2022 by Al Dente Diva Leave a Comment

This homemade chunky bleu cheese dressing is so easy to make and the perfect salad.dressing and condiment..

Chunky Bleu Cheese Dressing

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

There’s nothing better then a really good chunky bleu cheese dressing.

I’m a huge fan of condiments in general and bleu cheese is my favorite!

chunky blue cheese dressing

I always said if I opened another social media account instead of Al Dente Diva I’d call myself The Condiment Queen.

Finding the right one at the grocery store can be a difficult task for me. I’m super picky about which ones I like.

Once I started making this bleu cheese dressing recipe my search for the perfect bottled one came to a stop.

This is it! This is THE one.

chunky bleu cheese dressing in mason jar

Sure, the pre made stuff at the store is more convenient but this dressing takes barely any effort to make.

It’s so worth it for all the extra goodness.

This homemade dressing is creamy and chunky at the same time.

It truly is the perfect blend and consistency.

chunky bleu cheese dressing on spoon

It’s amazing over any salad or even used as a dipping sauce.

I know if you give this recipe a try you’ll love it just as much as I do.

Chunky Bleu Cheese dressing Tips

This recipe is very easy to make but there are two big tips I have to make sure that this dressing is at its best.

bleu cheese
  • Bleu Cheese- don’t get the bleu cheese crumbles at the grocery store. Make sure to buy the bleu cheese in a block and crumble it yourself. Ot will taste so much better and creamier that way. You can also control the size of the chunks that way.
  • Marinating- this dressing is at its best when it gets to marinate in the fridge for a few hours. Try to make it at least 6 hours ahead or even better let it sit overnight. All those flavors need time to blend together.

Follow these two tips for the best results..

Other Dipping Sauces

If you like an easy to make and delicious dipping sauce like I do here are a few more I know you’ll love.

easy boom boom sauce
  • Homemade Tartar Sauce
  • Boom Boom Sauce
  • Taco Bell Copycat Quesadilla Sauce
  • Copycat Big Mac Sauce

How long does this chunky bleu cheese stay fresh for?

If you happen to not use up all of this dressing in one sitting it can last in the fridge for about 3 weeks.

bleu cheese dressing

Just be sure to place it in an air tight container in the fridge and you’ll be good to go!

Chunky Bleu Cheese Dressing Ingredients

chunky bleu cheese ingredients
  • Whole Milk
  • White Wine Vinegar
  • Bleu Cheese, crumbled yourself off the block
  • Sour Cream
  • Mayonnaise
  • Garlic
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

First, add the bleu cheese to a medium sized bowl and mash if with a fork.

crumbled bleu cheese

Next add all of the other ingredients.

dressing ingredients

Then stir them all together until they’re evenly combined.

blur cheese ingredients mixed

If you’d like some extra blue blue cheese crumbles in there, break some more off with your fingers and add them to the dressing now.

bleu cheese dressing in a mason jar

Now cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 6 hours before serving to let the flavors marinate.

chunky bleu cheese dressing

Finally stir it one more time and serve!

Chunky Bleu Cheese Dressing Recipe Video

chunky blue cheese dressing
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chunky bleu cheese dressing

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Course Salad
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 6-8 oz blue cheese (in a block not crumbled)
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoon vinegar
  • ¼ cup mayonaise
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions
 

  • First, in a medium size bowl, place the bleu cheese down and smash it with a fork
  • Now add all of the other ingredients and stir them until they're evenly combined.
  • Place it in the fridge for at least 6 hours to blend all the flavors together.
  • Stir one last time before serving and give it a taste test. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy!
Keyword chunky bleu cheese dressing

BAKED BBQ CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS

June 8, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 6 Comments

These delicious baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are the perfect easy meal for a busy weekday dinner.

Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These will probably be the easiest baked bbq chicken drumsticks that you will ever make.

There are only 4 ingredients needed for this recipe and there’s practically nothing to it.

If you can brush bbq sauce on top of chicken and pop it into the oven then you’ve got it down.

Even though it’s super simple it’s also so unbelievably good.

The chicken is so juicy and loaded with flavor.

My kids even love this recipe and at 5 and 9 they can be super tough critics.

That’s why I love to make this recipe. It couldn’t be easier on my end and my family absolutely loves it.

brushing bbq sauce on chicken

It’s such a great dinner choice for a busy weekday dinner.

I know if you try this one you’ll love it, too.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? 

It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Click HERE to order your copy or click the 3 lines in the top right corner and click “Book”. Thank you for the support.

What sides go with baked BBQ chicken drumsticks?

There are so many sides that would go perfectly with these bbq drumsticks.

The options are endless and completely up to you.

garlic parmesan fries

I personally think something like Shells & Cheese, Oven Roasted Potatoes or Garlic Parmesan Fries would be amazing.

Maybe even some Homemade Garlic Bread!

roasted broccoli

As for vegetables, Roasted Broccoli is usually my go to side dish.

Choose whatever you’d like. These drumsticks so great with everything.

Tip for removing the skin

If you’re having a hard time removing the skin from the chicken, I’ve been there too.

Sometimes it can be super hard to grip onto.

If you’re having a hard time holding on, grab a little paper towel and pull the skin away from the meat with that.

You’ll get a great grip that way.

Do I have to remove the skin?

We’ll yes and no.

I personally think this recipe is at its best with the skin removed.

skinless chicken drumsticks

The BBQ sauce doesn’t really crisp the skin and it gets soggy and slimy.

Not great in my opinion.

seasoned skinless drumsticks

Baking the chicken without the skin really let’s the meat get nice and flavorful while it’s baking.

I’d highly recommend removing it.

Do I have to use drumsticks?

Nope you can use other cuts of chicken if you’d like for this recipe.

packaged chicken drumsticks

Skinless chicken thighs are a great option here, too.

I bet chicken breasts would work also.

Just be mindful to adjust cooking times and make sure the internal temperature of the meat is 165°.

Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Ingredients:

baked bbq chicken drumsticks ingredients
  • Chicken Drumsticks
  • BBQ Sauce
  • Olive oil
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

First, remove the skin from the drumsticks.

Set them down on a parchment paper or tin foil liked baking sheet.

Then drizzle them with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper.

Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat so it’s evenly coated.

Next bake the chicken for 40 minutes at 375°.

seasoned chicken drumsticks

After that, spread a thick layer of bbq sauce on all sides of the chicken.

brushing bbq sauce on drumsticks

Then turn up the oven temperature to 425° and bake the drumsticks for 5 minutes.

Now add another thick layer of bbq sauce and bake them for another 5 minutes.

Let them cool slightly before serving and enjoy.

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Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These easy to make baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are the perfect weekday dinner.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper/ tin foil

Ingredients
  

  • 1-2 pounds Chicken Drumsticks
  • 2 tbs Olive Oil
  • ¼ cup BBQ Sauce add more bbq sauce if you need to
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees
  • Remove the skin from the drumsticks and place them on a parchment paper lined baking sheet
  • Drizzle them with olive oil and generously season them with salt and pepper
  • Rub the seasoning into the meat and bake them for 40 minutes
  • Then turn the oven up to 425 degrees and brush the drumsticks with a thick layer of BBQ sauce on all sides. Bake them for 5 minutes
  • Spread another thick layer of BBQ sauce on all sides and bake them again for another 5 minutes.
  • Let them cool slightly and serve warm

Video

Keyword baked bbq chicken drumsticks, baked chicken drumsticks, baked drumsticks

Ranch Butter Corn

June 10, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 6 Comments

This delicious ranch butter corn is only 3 ingredients and is the perfect summer side.

Ranch Butter Corn

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

If you’ve never had ranch butter corn you’re in for a treat. Its my favorite way to make corn on the cob in the summer time.

ranch butter corn

This recipe is so delicious and a really nice way to change it up from the traditional butter, salt and pepper.

There’s nothing like Jersey corn in the summer time. I wait all year for it to be in season and my family does, too. My sons are huge fans of corn.

I like to eat it as often as I can but there are only so many ways to make it. Even though we wait all year for this, It can get a little stale and boring.

ranch butter over corn

That’s why I love this ranch butter corn recipe. It’s got such s unique flavor to it. Something different to break up the regular old routine.

The best part is that it’s so easy to make, too! Easy and delicious recipes are the only way to go in the hectic summer months.

ranch butter

All you need to make this is just a couple ears of corn, butter and a dry ranch dressing packet. That’s all there is to it!

I hope you give this easy ranch butter corn a try. I know you’ll love it just as much as my family does.

Fast. Sinple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Click HERE to order your copy or click the 3 lines in the top right corner and click “Book”. Thank you for the support. 

Ranch Butter Corn Variations

I love this recipe as it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

plated ranch butter corn
  • Corn On The Cob- You dont have to use corn on the cob for this recipe. I absolutely recommend it but frozen corn or canned corn would work, too. Just make the ranch butter as the directed below and mix it into the cooked corn.
  • Cooking- I boiled the corn here but feel free to prepare it in the air fryer, on the grill or any other method youd prefer.
  • Spice- If you'd like to add some heat to this dish, try a spicy or fiesta flavor of ranch. It will add a ton of flavor.

Other side dishes

If you like super easy to make side dishes like this one, here are a few others you’ll love too.

oven roasted broccoli
  • Easy Ranch Potatoes
  • Roasted Garlic Parmesan roasted broccoli
  • Garlic Parmesan fries

Ranch Butter Corn Ingredients

cleaned corn and ranch packet
  • Corn in the cob (cleaned)
  • Butter (room temp)
  • Ranch dressing packet

Instructions

First clean the corn and cut it in half.

corn on the cob cut in half

Then place it in a pot of boiling water for 3-5 minutes.

boiled corn

Meanwhile in a shallow bowl add the butter and ranch dressing packet.

dry ranch dressing packet

Stir them together.

ranch butter on corn

Then take each piece of the corn and place them in the butter.

corn in ranch butter

Roll the corn into the butter until it’s completely covered in it.

ranch butter corn plated

Now plate the corn and spoon the remaining butter on top.

ranch  butter spooned over corn

Serve warm and enjoy!

ranch butter corn
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Ranch Butter Corn

Level up corn on the cob with this easy to make 3 ingredient ranch butter corn recipe
No ratings yet
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Course Side Dish
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ears corn on the cob (cleaned and cut in half)
  • 1 stick butter (room temperature)
  • 1 1 oz Hidden Valley Ranch dry dressing packet

Instructions
 

  • Clean, cut in half and boil the corn in a pot of hot water for about 5 minutes until the corn in cooked to your liking.
  • Meanwhile, mix the ranch dressing packet with the room temperature butter into a shallow bowl
  • Place the cooked corn into the bowl and toss it into the ranch butter
  • Spoon the remaining ranch butter over the corn and serve warm
Keyword corn on the cob recipe, ranch butter corn, ranch butter corn recipe

Texas Toast Pizza

June 15, 2022 by Al Dente Diva Leave a Comment

This 3 ingredient Texas Toast Pizza is the perfect thing to make when you need something fast and easy to put together.

Texas Toast Pizza

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

It doesn’t get any easier then this 3 ingredient Texas Toast Pizza.

plated Texas toast pizza

Ready in under 15 minutes and incredibly delicious, too.

It’s the perfect thing to make when you just need to throw something together for dinner.

I think my kids secretly hope I lose track of the day just so they can request this.

texas toast pepperoni pizza

This is a family favorite recipe around here for sure. I make this as a quick snack all the time, too.

I mean Texas Toast Pizza does make a lot of sense when you think about it.

texas toast pizza plated

We all love pizza and to make it on top of some thick buttery garlic bread just brings it to the next level.

You will absolutely not be disappointed if you give this one a try. I know you’re going to love it, too. It’s impossible not to.

Other Dinners In A Pinch

Whether you’re short on time or watching your wallet, here are a few super easy and affordable dinner ideas.

stove top meatloaf
  • Baked. BBQ chicken Drumsticks
  • Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
  • Ham & Swiss Crescent Rolls
  • 4 Ingredient Pesto Chicken
  • Zesty Italian Chicken Thighs
  • Semi Homemade Orange Chicken Tenders
pesto chicken cover

Any one of those recipes would be great for a busy weekday dinner.

Tips For The Best Texas Toast Pizza

This is the easiest recipe of all time. There’s nothing to it at all.

There are just a couple more things that you can do to make sure that this Texas toast pizza is at its best.

texas toast pizza plated
  • Texas Toast. Make sure to actually toast the Texas Toast before you add the sauce and toppings. It shouldn’t be completely done. Remove it a couple of minutes before the directions say so then add the sauce and cheese. This will make sure that the sauce doesn’t soak into the bread and make it soggy.
  • Mozzarella Cheese- Grate the mozzarella cheese yourself. Don’t get the pre shredded stuff that comes in a bag at the grocery store. There’s all sorts of stuff in that cheese to keep it fresh and from prevent it from clumping. It will also stop the cheese from melting properly, too. Grate it yourself if you can.
plated Texas toast pizza

What Tomato Sauce Should I use?

You can use whatever tomato sauce you’d like.

I kept it simple and used a jar of Rao’s Homemade that I had at the house.

jarred tomato sauce

Feel free to use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade if you have some.

I also have a great recipe for Simple Italian Tomato Sauce if you’d like to make your own and are looking for a recipe.

simple Italian Tomato sauce

Topping Variations

The topping variations for this Texas Toast Pizza are endless.

Add whatever toppings you’d add to a regular pizza for this one.

texas toast on baking sheet

Here are some suggestions if you’re in need of some inspiration:

  • Peppers & Onions
  • Mushrooms
  • Sausage
  • Olives
  • Meatball
  • Extra Cheese
shredded mozzarella

Use your imagination and add whatever you think would be awesome.

Texas Toast Pizza Ingredients

texas toast pizza ingredients
  • Texas Toast
  • Tomato Sauce
  • Mozzarella Cheese
  • Pepperoni (optional)
  • Dried Parsley (optional)

Instructions

First, lay out the Texas Toast into a tin foil or parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Texas toast on baking sheet

Then follow the cooking directions on the back of the package and remove the toast 2 min before the time it says to.

Texas toast by preheated oven

The Texas Toast should just slightly toasted but not completely cooked.

toasted texas toast

Now add the tomato sauce.

tomato sauce goin on toast

Then add shredded mozzarella cheese.

shredded cheese going on toast

Next add the pepperoni, whatever other toppings you’d like or none at all.

Texas toast about to be baked

After that place it in the oven at 425° for another 4-5 minutes or until the cheese is nice and melted.

texas toast pizza right out

Finally let it cool slightly and sprinkle it with parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Texas Toast Pizza Recipe Video

texas toast pizza
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Texas Toast Pizza

This Texas Toast Pizza is the perfect thing to make when youre in a a pinch for dinner. Its so easy and ready in under 15 minutes.
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Course Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Italian

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper or tin foil

Ingredients
  

  • 6 slices Texas toast
  • ½ cup Tomato Sauce add more or less if you want
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded
  • 12 slices pepperoni (Optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley, optional

Instructions
 

  • preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Place the texas to toast slices down on a parchment paper or tin foil lined baking sheet.
  • Bake the Texas toast 2 minutes under the recommended cooking time. It should be slightly toasted but not cooked all the way.
  • Add a couple spoonfuls of sauce to the top of the toast. Then add the shredded cheese and pepperoni if you'd like that.
  • Pop it back into the oven and cook it for another 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
  • Let the Texas toast pizza cool slightly, sprinkle them parsley (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy
Keyword texas toast pizza

The Best Chicken Marinade

June 22, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 7 Comments

This is easily the best chicken marinade recipe that I have to share. So simple to prepare and so much flavor.

The Best Chicken Marinade

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

If you’re looking for the best chicken marinade then search no further.

the best chicken marinade cover

I’ve been making this one for years and it’s my absolute favorite.

So easy to make and oh so much flavor.

Every ingredient plays a part in this marinade.

I love simple to make recipes like this.

marinated cooked chicken

Sometimes it’s so nice to plan a little bit ahead and let those incredible flavors really penetrate the meat.

Little effort for a big pay off if you ask me.

I make this chicken marinade for family dinners all the time.

the best chicken marinade being cooked in a grill pan

My family loves this recipe.

I also really like to these to BBQ’s because they’re so easy to toss right on the grill.

chicken being cooked

The chicken thighs really hold onto all of the flavors in the marinade and they come out so juicy every time.

the best chicken marinade done cooking

This one is always a hit when I make it.

I know if you give it a try that you’ll love this chicken marinade recipe, too. It really is the best.

Other Simple Marinades

If you like simple but delicious marinades like this one, here are a few more you’ll love, too.

the best ever steak marinade
  • The Best Steak Marinade
  • Lemon & Dill Salmon Kebabs
  • Grilled Chicken Thighs

Do I have to use chicken thighs?

Technically no you do not have to use chicken thighs but I do recommend them.

Chicken breasts or tenderloins would work here, too.

cubed chicken thighs

Chicken thighs are fattier then chicken breast and stay juicer when they’re being cooked.

It’s almost impossible to overcook them.

chicken thighs

If you’d like to use chicken breasts go ahead though. It’s up to you.

How should I cook the chicken?

I placed my chicken pieces into a skewer and cooked them in my grill pan.

grilling the beet chicken marinade

You can easily grill these outside or skip the skewers all together and just place them into a skillet.

I have never air fried them but I’m sure that would work also.

chicken thighs skewered

Just be sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° and is cooked all the way through.

Quick skewer tip:

If you’re going to cook these chicken thighs on a grill/grill pan like I did I have a tip for the skewers.

wooden skewers

Place the skewers in some cold water for a few hours to soak them before you add the chicken.

They will be much less likely to brown and burn that way.

chicken thighs on wooden skewers

This is especially helpful when grilling over an open flame.

The Best Chicken Marinade Ingredients

the best chicken marinade ingredients
  • Chicken Thighs
  • Olive oil
  • Brown Sugar
  • Soy Sauce
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic
  • Garlic powder
  • Lemon/ lemon zest
  • Thyme
  • Parsley fresh
  • Parsley dried (optional)

Instructions

First, cube up the chicken thighs into relatively equal pieces. About 2 inches big.

cubed chicken thighs

Next, add them to a medium sized bowl.

chicken thighs in a bowl

Now season them with the salt, pepper and garlic powder.

seasoned chicken thighs in a bowl

Then add the olive oil, soy sauce and brown sugar.

brown sugar

Then add the lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, parsley and thyme.

lemon juice

Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined.

the best chicken thigh marinade

Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to marinate.

I like to leave it there overnight but if you don’t have that time just do it for as long as you can.

chicken in the marinade with plastic wrap

Now take the marinated chicken thighs and place them onto a wooden skewer.

the marinated chicken skewered

Then cook them on all sides in a grill pan over medium high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°

cooking the chicken skewers

Finally let them cool slightly and serve warm. Sprinkle them with some dried parsley if you’d like. Enjoy!

the finished chicken

The Best Chicken Marinade
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The Best Chicken Marinade

This easy to make chicken marinade is packed with flavor and the absolute BEST.
5 from 1 vote
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • wooden/metal skewers

Ingredients
  

  • 2-3 pounds Chicken Thighs, boneless & skinless
  • ¼ cup Olive Oil
  • 3 tbs Brown Sugar
  • ¼ cup Soy Sauce
  • 1 large Lemon
  • Sat and Pepper to taste
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 2 tbs Garlic Powder
  • 2 tbs Parsley, Fresh- Chopped
  • 2 tbs Thyme, Fresh or Dried
  • Parsley, dried (optional)

Instructions
 

  • First, cut the chicken thighs into about 2 inch pieces and place them in a medium sized bowl.
  • Add all of the ingredients except for the dried parsley. Mix it all together, cover it and place it in the fridge over night.
  • Remove it from the fridge and place the marinated cubed chicken onto wooden or metal skewers.
  • Place the skewers on a grill pan over medium high heat. Cook them on all sides until the chicken is cooked all the way through. It should have an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
  • Sprinkle them with some dried parsley of garnish if you'd like. Let them cool slightly and enjoy!
Keyword chicken marinade', chicken recipe, the best chicken marinade

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

July 19, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 2 Comments

By adding just one special ingredient these parmesan crusted brussels sprouts are a new spin on an old favorite.

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Parmesan crusted brussels sprouts are my new favorite way to make them.

parmesan crusted brussels sprouts cover

I feel like Brussels sprouts have such a bad reputation and I have no idea why.

Maybe people just didn’t know how to make them properly when we were all kids.

Or maybe our taste buds evolved a little once we grew up.

Who knows. The point is that the rumors are not true at all. Brussels sprouts are fantastic!

plated parmesan crusted Brussels sprouts

If you can make them the right way that is.

I love a simple roasted vegetable.

Im usually happy with just some salt, pepper and garlic powder.

brussels sprout on the bottom

But the parmesan cheese in this recipe is such a nice addition.

The Brussels sprouts maintain their usual roasted flavor with a little something extra.

The parmesan cheese crisps up in the oven and attaches right onto those sprouts.

plated Brussels sprouts

It’s absolutely fantastic.

I even love all the leaves that fall off and look burnt. They’re not Burt, they’re delicious Brussels sprout chips!

This is an easy recipe, too!

Brussels sprouts cut side down

It’s a great side dish to make for a busy weeknight dinner and it compliments just about anything.

The picky eaters in my house even love this recipe. I know if you get it that you’ll love it, too!

plated dinner of skirt steak, potatoes and Brussels sprouts

I served my Parmesan crusted Brussels sprouts with marinated skirt steak, lemon dill potatoes and a nice piece of Texas Toast.

What to serve with parmesan crusted brussels sprouts

These Brussels sprouts are a great side dish that compliment so many main courses.

bbq chicken drumsticks

The options are endless and entirely up to you.

I have a few recipes that would compliment these perfectly if you’re looking for some inspiration.

stove top meatloaf
  • Baked BBQ drumsticks
  • Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

stuffed sausage and peppers
  • Stuffed sausage and peppers
  • Italian chicken nuggets
  • All these pasta recipes (CLICK HERE)
  • Zesty Italian chicken thighs

Tips for the best parmesan crusted Brussels sprouts

This recipe is as easy as one, two three. There’s hardly anything to it at all.

There are just a couple things you can do so make sure it’s at its absolute best.

sliced in half Brussel sprout
  • Rinse and dry the Brussels sprouts. Make sure they are clean and dry. The dry part of this is important. If they’re too wet they won’t get as crispy in the oven as they should.
  • Remove the stem. I see lots of people making these online who don’t remove the stem. It’s an easy thing to do so don’t skip this step. It will make a big difference when baking them.
  • Preheat the baking sheet. I love to throw my baking sheet into the oven while it preheats. Prepare the brussels sprouts and once they’re ready add them to the hot baking sheet. You’ll hear that sizzle right away! This will just help them get crispy.
  • Cut side down. Be sure to roast these veggies cut side down. It will create a nice crust on them!
Brussels sprouts cut side down on baking sheet

Other easy side dishes

If you’r looking for other delicious and easy to make side dishes just like this one here are some others you’ll love. ?

Mexican Street Corn casserole
  • Crispy oven roasted potatoes
  • Garlic Parmesan broccoli
  • Mexican street corn casserole

Garlic Parmesan Fries
  • Garlic Parmesan fries
  • Spicy Kani Salad
  • Ranch butter corn

Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

Brussels sprouts in a bowl
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Parmesan cheese

Instructions

First, preheat the oven to 400° and place the baking sheet in the oven to preheat also.

cleaned Brussels sprouts

Now rinse and dry the brussels sprouts really well.

Then slice the bottom stem off and cut them in half.

stem cut off of Brussels sprouts

Place them in a medium sized bowl.

brussels sprouts in a bowl

Now drizzle over the olive oil and sprinkle them with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

seasoned Brussels sprouts

Next add the Parmesan cheese.

parmesan cheese on Brussels sprouts

Toss everything together until it’s evenly combined.

Once the oven is preheated, carefully add the brussels sprouts to baking sheet that was preheating in the oven.

Brussels sprouts about to be baked

Place the sprouts cut side down onto the hot baking sheet. Be careful the baking sheet will be HOT.

Now bake them in the oven for about 30 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Don’t worry about those dark spots that look burnt. They’re the BEST PART!

cooked Brussels sprouts

Finally transfer them to a baking sheet, serve warm and enjoy!

Brussels sprouts in a bowl

Parmesan crusted brussels sprouts recipe video

parmesan crusted brussels sprouts
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Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts

These parmesan crusted Brussels sprouts are the perfect easy side dish to any meal.
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Course Side Dish
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • baking sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 12-16oz brussel sprouts
  • 3 tbs olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbs garlic powder
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • first, preheat the oven to 400 degrees with the baking sheet inside of it to preheat, too.
  • Now rinse and dry the Brussels sprouts really well. Make sure they're very dry so they roasting the oven nicely.
  • Then trim off the stem and cut them down the middle. Add them to a medium sized bowl.
  • Now drizzle them in olive oil and season them with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
  • Then add the parmesan cheese and toss everything together until its evenly combined
  • Next remove the baking sheet from the oven once its reached 400 degrees and add the Brussels sprouts to it. BE CAREFUL it will be very hot. Arrange the sprouts cut side down on the baking sheet.
  • Bake the brussels sprouts in the oven for about 30 minutes or until they're golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish and enjoy.
Keyword brussels sprouts side dish, easy side dish, parmesan crusted brussels sprouts, vegetable side dish

Sheet Pan Breakfast Pizza

July 17, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 2 Comments

Making a sheet pan breakfast pizza is the best of both worlds and so easy to do.

Sheet Pan Breakfast Pizza

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

How good does a nice hot sheet pan breakfast pizza sound?

It sounds phenomenal to me!

sheet pan beakfast pizza

I was walking past 7/11 the other day and I saw a sign for a breakfast pizza on the door.

I thought to myself, what an awesome idea!

If you like pizza and you like breakfast then why not combine the two?

7/11 food inspiration
The recipe inspiration

It’s the best of both worlds!

From the second I saw that sign hanging on the door I was on a mission to make one.

All I have to say is WOW.

breakfast pizza on sheet pan

I was super impressed with how delicious it turned out.

Sausage, egg and cheese on a crescent roll crust. Chefs kiss for real.

This sheet pan breakfast pizza is super versatile, too.

breakfast pizza

There are so many options for flavor combinations to choose from.

This is a great breakfast or brunch option if you’re cooking for a crowd, too.

breakfast pizza

This recipe was a big hit at my house. Everyone really enjoyed it.

I know if you try this sheet pan breakfast pizza that you’ll love it, too.

Other easy breakfast options

If you love quick and easy breakfasts like this one here are some other recipes you will love, also.

cherry danish
  • Breakfast crescent rolls
  • 4 ingredient cherry danish
  • Ham and Swiss crescent rolls
  • Crispy oven baked bacon
  • Cinnamon roll waffles
crispy oven baked bacon

Sheet pan breakfast pizza crust

A pizza isn’t a pizza without the crust.

I used a Pillsbury Crescent Rolls sheet for this one. It was buttery, light and went perfectly with the sausage egg and cheese.

breakfast pizza being made

If you’d like to use something different, I bet regular pizza dough would work, too.

It may not be as great of a pairing as the crescent rolls but it would work.

square of breakfast pizza

Phyllo dough is another option. Puff pastry would be a great for a flakey crust.

If you’re trying to low carb it up, try this on a tortilla, too!

Sheet pan breakfast pizza variations

Just because I used sausage egg and cheese for this recipe doesn’t mean you need to.

Use whatever cheese or breakfast meat you’d like.

cooked bacon

Bacon would of course be amazing here!

The toppings are endless, too.

sheet pan breakfast pizza

Add some sautéed peppers, onions, tomatoes or whatever your favorites are.

How to spice this sheet pan breakfast pizza up

I prefer spicy food any day of the week.

If you’re like me, here are some ways to turn up the heat on this breakfast sandwich.

crumbled sausage
  • Use pepper Jack or spicy cheese
  • Use spicy sausage
  • Top with sriracha or any hot sauce before serving

Do I have to shred the cheese myself?

No, you don’t have to but I’d strongly recommend avoiding the preshredded cheese that comes in a bag.

shredded cheese

That stuff has got chemicals like cellulose in it that prevent clumping.

The problem with that is that it also prevents it from melting well, too.

assorted cheeses

If you shred the cheese yourself it will melt very well and your breakfast pizza will taste much better as a result.

Trust me you’ll see the difference.

Sheet pan breakfast pizza ingredients

sheet pan breakfast pizza ingredients
  • Pillsbury crescent rolls sheet
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Breakfast sausage
  • Butter
  • Eggs
  • Salt and pepper
  • Everything but the bagel seasoning (optional)

Instructions

First, lay the crescent roll sheet down on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

crescent sheet on parchment paper

Then bake the crescent rolls according to the directions on the package but not for the full time.

crescent sheet on baking sheet

Remove it around 10 minutes or until the dough is lightly browned.

baked crescent sheet

In the meantime, brown the sausage over medium high heat.

sausage in a skillet

Break it into small crumbles as it cooks and set it aside when it’s done.

crumbled sausage

Now crack the eggs into a medium sized bowl and whisk them until they’re well combined. They should kinda look like a orange juice in the bowl.

scrambled eggs

Next, add butter to the same pan the sausage was cooked in and melt it over medium high heat.

hot butter in a skillet

Add the eggs and lower the heat to medium low.

eggs in the eggs

Now scrape the bottom of the pan and scramble the eggs just until they’re cooked.

making scrambled eggs

Season them with salt and pepper to taste.

adding salt and pepper to the scrambled eggs

Then add half of the shredded cheese to the crescent roll crust.

adding cheese to the crescent roll crust

Now top that with the scrambled eggs.

adding eggs to the breakfast pizza

After that sprinkle the sausage on the top and add the rest of the cheese.

adding cheese to the breakfast pizza

Add some everything but the bagel seasoning evenly to the top. (Optional)

everything but the bagel seasoning

Finally put it back into the oven and bake it for another 5 minutes or so. Just until the cheese is melted.

finished sheet pan breakfast pizza

Let it cool slightly and cut it into squares before serving.

sliced sheet pan breakfast pizza

Sheet pan breakfast pizza recipe video

sheet pan breakfast pizza
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Sheet Pan Breakfast Pizza

This delicious sheet pan breakfast pizza is the best of both worlds and so easy to make, too.
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Course Breakfast
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can Pillsbury crescent sheet
  • ⅓ lb breakfast sausage
  • 1 tbs butter
  • 6-7 eggs
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese (divided)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbs everything but the bagel seasoning

Instructions
 

  • First, unroll the crescent rolls sheet and place in on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.
  • Bake it according the directions on the back of the packaging but not to the full Recommend time. Remove the crust once its starting to brown. This should take about 10 minutes.
  • In the meantime, cook the sausage in a medium sized skillet over medium high heat. Using your spoon or spatula break the meat into small pieces. Set it aside in a bowl once its cooked all the way through.
  • Now in a bowl, add the eggs and whisk them together.
  • In that same skillet, add butter and melt it over medium high heat then add the eggs. Lower the heat to medium low and scramble the eggs. Season then with salt and pepper.
  • Once the crust is ready, add half of the shredded cheese to it. Then add the scrambled eggs, sausage crumbles, the rest of the cheese and the everything bagel seasoning, too.
  • Put the breakfast pizza back in the oven and cook it until the cheese is melted. This should take about 5 minutes.
  • Let it cool slightly before cutting it into squares and serving. Enjoy!
Keyword breakfast pizza, easy breakfast pizza, sheet pan breakfast pizza

Spicy Kani Salad

July 8, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 6 Comments

You will love how refreshing and delicious this spicy kani salad is. It’s super easy to make, too.

Spicy Kani Salad

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

I can’t stress enough how much I love a spicy kani salad.

spicy kani salad cover

I was first introduced to them by Auntie Amanda on Tik Tok about a year ago.

The more I saw her eating them the more I wanted to try one.

Let me tell you something, I was hooked from the very first bite.

spicy kani salad with avocado

Since then I can not order sushi without a spicy kani salad to go alone with it.

The ingredients are simple but they all play a part to make this salad really special.

spicy kani salad with sesame seeds

I know if you try this spicy kani salad recipe, you’re going to love it, too!

Does this kani salad have to be spicy?

If you’re not really into heat don’t worry. You can easily eliminate the spice out of this salad.

sriracha mayo

Instead of using sriracha mayonnaise just use regular mayonnaise instead.

Still mix it with the vinegar and you’re good to go!

Can I used regular crab meat?

You can but it’s not recommended.

A real kani salad uses the imitation crab meat or crab sticks.

adding spicy mayo to the kani salad

I’d try it this way before switching to real crab first.

What to serve a spicy kani salad with

Kani salads can be served as a side dish, snack or main course.

skirt streak marinade

It is a Japanese food so I usually get it with sushi. But when I make it at home like this the options are endless.

I usually go with something like chicken teriyaki, orange chicken or skirt steak and a vegetable like roasted broccoli.

roasted Garlic Parmesan broccoli cover

Any protein and veggie combo would work just fine.

Spicy Kani Salad Ingredients

spicy kani salad in a bowl
  • Sriracha mayonnaise
  • Vinegar
  • Imitation crab
  • Shredded cucumber
  • Shredded carrot
  • Sesame seeds (optional)
  • Avocado (optional)

Instructions

First, pull apart the imitation crab or slice it into shreds then add it to a medium sized bowl.

shredded imitation crab meat

Now add the shredded carrots.

shredded carrots in a bowl

I get them in a bag preshredded to save myself the hassle but if you want to shred a carrot yourself go for it.

shredded carrots bag

Then using a peeler, peel the cucumber from the outside into the center leaving the seeds.

peeled cucumber

Take those cucumber shreds and slice them thin using a knife and add them to the crab and carrots.

sliced cucumber in a bowl

After that make the dressing by mixing spicy mayonnaise with a little white vinegar.

spicy mayo and vinegar in a mixing bowl

Add the spicy mayo dressing to the kani salad and toss it to combine.

spicy mayo dressing

Add sesame seeds and sliced avocado if you want.

spicy kani salad with sesame seeds and avocado

Serve cool and enjoy.

Spicy Kani Salad
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Spicy Kani Salad

This spicy kani salad is so refreshing and easy to make.
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Course Appetizer, Main Course, Salad, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Japanese

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Imitation crab meat
  • ¼ cup Shredded Carrots
  • 1 medium Cucumber, shredded
  • ⅓ cup Sriracha Mayo
  • 1 teaspoon Vinegar
  • Avocado (optional)
  • 2 tbs Sesame Seeds (optional)

Instructions
 

  • First, shred or slice the imitation crab meat thin (julienne) and add it to a medium sized bowl.
  • Then add the shredded carrots. (I buy them already shredded at the grocery store but you can slice one thin or grate it if you want.
  • Using a peeler, peel the cucumber from the outside in until you hit the middle where the seeds are.
  • Using a knife, slice the peeled cucumber into thinner shreds (julienne) and add it to the bowl.
  • To make the dressing, mix the sriracha mayo with the vinegar. Pour it on top of the kani salad and toss to combine.
  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds and add sliced avocado if you'd like. Serve cold and enjoy!
Keyword kani salad, spicy kani salad, spicy kani salad recipe

CITRUS MARINATED SKIRT STEAK

July 24, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 4 Comments

All the flavors of this citrus marinated skirt steak help to make it tender and delicious.

Citrus Marinated Skirt Steak

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

There are so many amazing flavors in this citrus marinated skirt steak recipe.

It’s one of my favorites and I make it often. I swear I never get sick of steak.

I could eat it every single day and be the happiest person on the planet.

This marinade recipe is so easy to put together and so incredibly delicious.

This can be eaten a bunch of ways. Either as a main protein, in fajitas/tacos/quesadillas, or as a salad topper.

There are many delicious options for this one!

It’s the perfect cut to soak up all the different flavors in the marinade.

I think that’s why I just love it so much. Skirt steak can be so flavorful if it’s done the right way.

Luckily for me my family loves it as much as I do so I get to make it often.

I try to keep the marinades interesting so no one gets bored.

I’m always looking for new recipes to try and this one is loaded with tons of flavor.

The citrus ingredient here really helps to tenderize the meat, too.

I absolutely love this citrus marinated skirt steak recipe. I know if you try it you’ll love it, too!

Other Marinade Recipes

If you’re always looking for the next killer marinated recipe I have a few that I know you’d love.

  • The Best Ever Steak Marinade
  • Lemon & Dill Salmon Kebabs
  • The Best Chicken Marinade
  • Grilled Chicken Skewers

All of these are super delicious. I hope you give them a try.

Tips for the best citrus marinated skirt steak

This marinade is really such a great one. You can’t really mess it up in anyway.

There are a couple things you can do to make sure that it’s at its absolutely best though.

  • Tenderize the steak. If you have a meat tenderizer it’s a great idea to pound the steak with it before marinating. Skirt steak can be a little tough so this will help.
  • Use fresh OJ. When it comes to using juice in a recipe fresh is always best. If you have an orange, juice it! This citrus here will really help to tenderize the meat also.
  • Marinate longer. You don’t want to over do it but the longer the better when it comes to marinating. I’d suggest anywhere from 4 hours until over night. Let all those flavors really penetrate the meat.
  • Drain it. Make sure you drain the meat from the marinade before you cook it. All the flavors are already in the meat itself. I’d you drain the marinade it will get a nice sear while cooking.
  • Don’t over cook it. Skirt steak only needs to be cooked for a couple of minutes on each side. Try not to overcook the meat or it will be tough. Check out this article on BonAppetite.com on how to cook a skirt steak if you're interested.
  • Let it rest. Let the steak rest under a tin foil tent before slicing. General rule of thumb is to let the steak rest for half time it took to cook it. Doing this will help lock all the juice and flavor in.
  • Slicing. Make sure you slice the skirt steak against the grain. This will also make it tender and easier to chew.

Citrus Marinated Skirt Steak Ingredients

  • Skirt Steak
  • Minced garlic
  • Soy sauce
  • Orange juice/ slices
  • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, cumin
  • Sliced onions
  • Olive oil
  • red wine vinegar
  • Lime juice/ lime zest
  • Fresh parsley

Instructions:

First, place the steak into whatever container you’re going to marinate it in.

Then in a separate bowl, whisk together all of the ingredient.

Next add the sliced onions.

Now pour the marinade over the steak and massage it in.

Then seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge.

Let the steak marinate for 4 hours- overnight.

Once you’re ready to cook the steak, drain the marinade from it.

Reserve the onions if you want to cook them along side the steak.

Cook/ grill the steak however you’d like and enjoy!

citrus marinates skirt steak
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Citrus Marinated Skirt Steak

This citrus marinated skirt steak is so tender, flavorful and delicious.
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lbs skirt steak
  • 4 tbs soy sauce
  • ⅓ c orange juice
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 tbs olive oil
  • 1 tbs garlic powder
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic,minced
  • ¼ cup parsley, fresh
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tbs cumin
  • 1 lime juice and zest
  • 1 large Onion, sliced

Instructions
 

  • First add the steak to whatever you want to marinate it in.
  • In a separate bowl, combine all the rest of the ingredients except for the onion and whisk them all together.
  • Then add the onion and toss that into the marinade.
  • Pour the marinade over the steak and seal it.
  • Place the streak in the fridge from 4 hours up until over night.
  • Drain the steak from the marinade and grill/cook it however you'd like. Save the onions to grill also if you want. Serve warm & enjoy.
Keyword citrus marinated skirt steak, skirt steak marinade, skirt streak

CRISPY BREADED PORK CHOPS

July 31, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 3 Comments

Crispy breaded pork chops are made by coating seasoned pork chops in flour, egg wash and breadcrumbs they frying them on both sides until golden brown and crispy.

Crispy Breaded Pork Chops

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These crispy breaded pork chops are juicy, flavorful and absolute heaven on a plate.

They are so crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors and exactly what you're looking for in a perfect pork chop

These pork chops don't need any gravy, sauces or applesauce to complete them either. They are delicious served exactly as they are.

My family likes when I make these with a nice big serving of White Cheddar Mac & Cheese and some Roasted Parmesan Broccoli on the side but they go great with just about anything.

Now, cooking times may vary. That depends on the thickness of the chops you decide to purchase. Either way, this recipe is super easy to make and can be on the table in under 30 minutes.

It sure is a crowd pleaser, too. I've made this for my own family dozens of times and for extended friends and family, too. Everyone just raves about these.

Even my little boys who insist they "don't like pork" love when I make these. The crispy breadcrumb coating and juicy meat inside make the har to resist.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love them just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know I have a cook book called Fast Simple Delicious?

It’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for weekday dinners.

CLICK HERE to preorder yours & as always thanks for the support.

Crispy Breaded Pork Chop Variations

I like this pork chop recipe made just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Pork Chops- Any kind of pork chops would be ok to use here. Bone in or boneless and however thick or thin you'd like. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so that the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees and are fully cooked.
  • Air Fryer- Yes, these can be made in the air fryer. Just set the air fryer to 375 degrees and cook the chops for about 15 minutes flipping half way through. Give them a little spray with olive oil if needed.

Other Easy Pork Recipes

If you like super easy to make pork recipes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Pork Chops In Gravy
  • Stuffed Peppers Casserole
  • Stuffed Sausage And Peppers
  • Sausage Stuffed Cubanelle Peppers

Crispy Breaded Pork Chop Ingredients:

  • Bone In Pork Chops
  • Salt, Pepper and Garlic Powder
  • Flour
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • Canola oil
  • Parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

First, pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season them with salt, pepper and garlic powder on both sides.

Now, in a shallow bowl mix the four with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Then, in a separate shallow bowl, beat together the eggs and milk.

Next, in a third shallow bowl, add the seasoned breadcrumbs.

Then, working in batches, dip the pork chops into the flour and coat them on both sides. Shake off any extra flour from the pork chops.

Next, dip them into the egg wash on both sides and let the extra egg wash run off.

Now, press them into the breadcrumbs on both sides. Shake any extra breadcrumbs off so they don't burn when frying.

Then, in a a large skillet heat the oil over medium high heat until it reaches about 350 degrees. Carefully fry the pork chops in batches until they're golden brown on both sides.

If the pork chops are thin, place them to drain on a wire rack and lightly season them with a little salt. Serve warm and with some fresh parsley for garnish (optional) and enjoy!

If your pork chops are on the thicker side, add them to a foil lined baking sheet or a wire rack (preferred) and place it in the center rack of the oven at 375 for about 15 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145.

baked pork chop
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Crispy Breaded Pork Chops

Crispy breaded pork chops are made by coating seasoned pork chops in flour, egg wash and breadcrumbs they frying them on both sides until golden brown and crispy.
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 3-4 Pounds Pork Chops (bone in)
  • Salt & Pepper (to taste)
  • 2 Tbs Garlic Powder (divided)
  • ¼ Milk Milk
  • 3 Eggs
  • ¾ Cup Flour
  • 1 Cup Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs
  • Canola Oil (enough to fill your skillet up so the pork chops are halfway covered when frying

Instructions
 

  • Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season them with salt, pepper and half of the garlic powder on both sides.
  • In a shallow bowl, add the flour and mix in the rest of the garlic powder, salt and pepper.
  • In another shallow bowl, beat together the eggs and milk.
  • In a third shallow bowl, add the seasoned breadcrumbs.
  • Take each pork chop and dip them in the flour (be sure to let the extra shake off) then into the egg wash (let the extra egg wash run off) and then into the bread crumbs. Shake the extra bread crumbs off also.
  • In a large skillet heat the oil over medium high heat until it reaches about 350 degrees. Carefully fry the pork chops in batches until they're golden brown on both sides.
  • If the pork chops are thin, drain them on a wire rack and lightly salt them. Let them cool slightly, serve warm and enjoy!
  • If your pork chops are on the thicker side, add them to a oil lined baking sheet or a wire rack and place in the center rack of the oven at 375 for about 15 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145.

Video

Keyword breaded pork chops, pork chops

MEAT SAUCE FOR PASTA

August 2, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 7 Comments

This meat sauce for pasta is made with ground beef, onions and garlic that have been simmered it Italian seasoned tomato sauce for the perfect compliment to any pasta.

Meat Sauce For Pasta

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Everyone needs a really great go to meat sauce for pasta in their collection and for me, this one is it!

It uses simple ingredients, is easy to make and my family absolutely loves it. We usually just serve this with a nice big piece of Homemade Garlic Bread and dinner is served. Its a great recipe to make on a busy weeknight.

This recipe is especially great for me because it doesn't require all day to simmer on the stove. I can have this sauce done in 30 minutes with just as much flavor packed into it as it would if it took all day to make.

I also love that It can be served with any kind of pasta that my family is in the mood for that day. I even use this sauce for my Baked Ziti and Lasagna recipes, too.

Whenever I make this for parties or casual dinners at home, the compliments just keep on coming. Everyone just loves the flavors of this super easy to make sauce.

This recipe has been passed around to so many of my friends and its their go to meat sauce for their families now, too.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know I have a cookbook? It’s called Fast Simple Delicious and it’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

CLICK HERE to pre-order a copy & thank you if you choose to buy one.

Meat Sauce For Pasta Variations

I like this sauce recipe made just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Pasta- This sauce goes well with any kind of pasta that you'd like. So choose your favorite.
  • Wine- Red or White wine would both be ok to use here. You can also omit the wine completely or replace it with some chicken or vegetable broth.
  • Meat- I do prefer this recipe made with beef, but ground veal, pork, chicken or turkey would be ok to use, too.

Other Easy Pasta Recipes

If you like super easy to make pasta recipes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Creamy Orzo With Chicken
  • The Best Vodka Sauce
  • Easy Alfredo Sauce
  • Marry Me Pasta

Meat Sauce For Pasta Ingredients

  • Ground Beef
  • Olive oil
  • Onion, diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • White or Red Wine
  • Canned Crushed Tomatoes
  • Salad and Pepper, Garlic Powder and Italian seasoning
  • Fresh Basil, shredded

Instructions

First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat and add the chopped onions. Saute the onions for about three minutes or until they begin to soften.

Then, add the chopped garlic and 1 Tbs of the Italian Seasoning. Saute for one more minute, stirring frequently.

Next, add the ground beef and season it with salt, pepper, 1 Tbs of Garlic Powder and 1 Tbs of Italian Seasoning.

Then, continue to saute the beef, breaking it down into small pieces using a wooden spoon or spatula, until it is browned and cooked all the way through. Drain the fat if necessary.

Next, turn the heat up to medium high and add the wine. Allow the alcohol to cook out of the wine for 2-3 minutes.

Now, add the cans of crushed tomatoes.

Then, season the tomatoes with Salt, Pepper, 1 Tbs of Italian Seasoning and 1 Tbs of Garlic Powder. Stir the tomatoes and seasoning into the ground beef.

Next, stir in the shredded basil and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can always let it simmer longer for more flavor if you'd like to.

Finally, add the sauce to your favorite pasta and enjoy!

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Meat Sauce For Pasta

This meat sauce for pasta is made with ground beef, onions and garlic that have been simmered it Italian seasoned tomato sauce for the perfect compliment to any pasta.
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5-2lbs Lbs Ground Beef
  • 2 Tbs Olive Oil
  • ¼ Cup White or Red Wine
  • 1 Small Onion, chopped
  • 5 Cloves Garlic, minced
  • Salt & Pepper to taste
  • 2 Tbs Garlic Powder, Divided
  • 3 Tbs Italian Seasoning, Divided
  • 56 Oz Cans Crushed Tomatoes
  • 3-4 Tbs Fresh Basil, shredded

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat and add the chopped onions. Saute the onions for about three minutes or until they begin to soften.
  • Add the chopped garlic and 1 Tbs of the Italian Seasoning. Saute for one more minute, stirring frequently.
  • Add the ground beef and season it with salt, pepper, 1 Tbs of Garlic Powder and 1 Tbs of Italian Seasoning.
  • Continue to saute the beef, breaking it down into small pieces using a wooden spoon or spatula, until it is browned and cooked all the way through. Drain the fat if necessary.
  • Turn the heat up to medium high and add the wine. Allow the alcohol to cook out of the wine for 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the cans of crushed tomatoes and season them with Salt, Pepper, 1 Tbs of Italian Seasoning and 1 Tbs of Garlic Powder. Stir the tomatoes and seasoning into the ground beef.
  • Stir in the shredded basil and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can always let it simmer longer for more flavor if you'd like to but its not necessary.
  • Finally, add the sauce to your favorite pasta and enjoy!
Keyword easy meat sauce, meat sauce, meat sauce for pasta

3 INGREDIENT CUCUMBER DIP

August 17, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 3 Comments

3 ingredient cucumber dip is made with just whipped cream cheese, fresh cucumbers and zesty Italian dressing for a refreshing summer appetizer.

3 Ingredient Cucumber Dip

This 3 ingredient cucumber dip is the perfect summer snack for any BBQ, party or get together.

It’s super simple to make, tastes delicious and only requires just a few simple ingredients. It doesn't get much easier than that.

New Jersey is the Garden State and in those warm summer months we have so many fresh vegetables available. Every famers market is just exploding with fresh produce.

I often am lucky enough to get gifted lots of veggies like cucumbers from friends who have their own gardens. This is my favorite recipe to make with them.

cucumber dip on wheat thin

This dip is truly the perfect summer appetizer. It's so refreshing and always a huge hit whenever I make it. People always ask me for the recipe and are so surprised when they find out how easy it is to make

You could even make this a day or two ahead to really let the flavors in the Italian dressing packet bloom in the cream cheese. All the flavors together perfectly.

cucumber dip with wheat thins

Take this to the next summer party an watch it be the star of the cookout! I promise this will be an appetizer that you make again and again.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and friends do.

3 Ingredient Cucumber Dip Variations

I like this dip recipe made just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Cream Cheese- Whipped cream cheese is easier to spread on crackers but you can use regular cream cheese, too if you'd like.
  • Dressing Packet- A Zesty Italian dressing packet or just a regular Italian Dressing packet would both be ok to use for this recipe.

Other Easy Dip Recipes

If you like super easy to make dip recipes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Viral Boat Dip
  • 4 Ingredient Hot Artichoke Dip
  • 3 Ingredient Chili Dip
  • Layered Bean Dip

3 Ingredient Cucumber Dip Ingredients

3 ingredient cucumber dip ingredients
  • Cucumber
  • Whipped Cream Cheese
  • Zesty Dry Italian Dressing Package

Instructions

First, peel the cucumber and using a spoon, scoop out the seeds in the center.

seeded cucumber

Then, dice the cucumber into small pieces and add it to a bowl.

small diced cucumber

Now, add the cream cheese and zesty dry Italian seasoning.

diced cucumber with cream cheese and dry italian seasoning

Stir it all together and pop it in the fridge for a hour so the Italian dressing packet can bloom in the cream cheese.

mixed cucumber dip

Finally, give it a big stir before serving with Wheat Thins or crackers.

cucumber dip on a wheat thin
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3 Ingredient Cucumber Dip
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3 Ingredient Cucumber Dip

This refreshing and easy to make cucumber dip is only 3 ingredients and perfect for summer.
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Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Large Cucumber (about ¾-1 cup)
  • 12 Oz Plain Whipped Cream Cheese
  • 0.7 0z Dry Zesty Italian Dressing

Instructions
 

  • Peel the cucumber and cut it in half. Using a spoon take the seeded center out of the center.
  • Chop the cucumber into small pieces and place it into a medium sized bowl.
  • Add the cream cheese and dry italian dressing. Stir it all together and place it in the fridge for one hour.
  • Stir it one more time before serving with wheat thins or cracker of your choice. Enjoy!
Keyword 3 ingredient cucumber dip, cucumber dip

PIZZA CUPCAKES

August 14, 2022 by Al Dente Diva Leave a Comment

These individual pizza cupcakes are made in a muffin tin with pre made pizza dough, mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce. They’re so easy and ready in under 30 minutes.

Pizza Cupcakes

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Pizza cupcakes are individual pieces of heaven.

pizza cupcake cover

I made these in my muffin tin a couple of weeks ago but never uploaded the recipe.

Only because I wasn’t sure what to call them.

Then when I was at the Mets game a couple of days ago I saw an item on their menu that said pizza cupcakes.

pizza cupcake sign at mets game

The picture beside it was exactly what I had made! So pizza cupcakes it is.

These are so cute and fun for kids. My sons loved them!

Because I used premade pizza dough and jarred sauce they couldn’t have been easier, too.

pizza cupcakes in muffin tin

They’re easily customized, too.

You can add whatever kind of toppings you’d like.

finished pizza cupcakes

These pizza cupcakes are super easy and quick to make.

I think these are perfect for a busy weekday dinner or snack.

There’s nothing to making them at all.

plated pizza cupcakes

We will for sure be making these pizza cupcakes again and again.

I’m sure if you give them a try that you’ll love them, too.

Fast Simple Delicious

Did you know I had a cookbook out?

It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

fast simple delicious book

Preorder your copy HERE and thank you in advance for the support.

Can I use different dough for these pizza cupcakes?

Whatever dough you’d like to use is up to you.

If you have a homemade pizza dough recipe you’d like to use go for it.

pillsbury mini pizza crusts

I used Pillsbury Mini Pizza Crust.

I think it’s a new product that I really wanted to try.

I’m a fan of Pillsbury refrigerated doughs so that’s what I usually use.

pizza dough in muffin tin

Their regular pizza dough, crescent rolls or biscuits would all work.

The crescent dough and biscuits will give you a little more of a light and buttery version but it would absolutely work.

What tomato sauce should I use for these pizza cupcakes?

If you have a your own homemade sauce or would like to make your own that’s great.

homemade tomato sauce in skillet

I have a wonderful recipe for basic tomato sauce here if you’d like one.

Jarred sauce works just fine, too.

jarred sauce

I used Rao’s Homemade Marinara but any brand you like is totally fine.

Do I need to shred the cheese myself?

Yes and no. Of course you don’t have to. You’re your own boss.

shredded mozzarella cheese

I would recommend grating the mozzarella cheese from the block every time.

Preshredded cheese in a bag that you get at the grocery store has certain chemicals in it like cellulose that also prevent it from melting well.

shredded mozzarella cheese

If you grate the cheese yourself it will melt much better in the oven.

What toppings can I put on these Pizza Cupcakes?

The topping possibilities for these pizza muffins are endless.

I make plain and pepperoni pizzas but choose whatever you want.

pepperoni pepperoni pizza cupcakes

The great thing about this is that they can be individually customized.

So each person eating can have whatever toppings they want.

Some ideas are:

  • Pepperoni
  • Meatball
  • Ground sausage
finished pizza cupcake
  1. Peppers and onions
  2. Mushrooms
  3. Black olives

How can I store these pizza cupcakes?

If you actually manage have any leftover pizza cupcakes without them being completely devoured they’re easily stored.

plated pizza cupcakes

Just place them in a air tight container or wrap them with some plastic wrap and pop them in the fridge.

They will stay fresh up to 3 days.

Other premade dough recipes

If you like taking shortcuts by using premade doughs like in this recipe here are some other recipes you’ll love:

cinnamon roll apple pies
  • Sheet pan breakfast
  • 4 ingredient cherry danish
  • Ham & Swiss crescent rolls
  • Cinnamon roll apple pies
4 ingredient cherry danish

Pizza Cupcake Ingredients

pizza cupcake Ingredients
  • Pillsbury Mini Pizza Crusts
  • Cooking spray
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Tomato sauce
  • Pepperoni (optional)

Instructions:

First spray your muffin tin with cooking spray.

spraying muffin tin with cooking spray

Then open your mini pizza crusts and place them into each section of the muffin tin.

individual pizza dough

Push them down with your fingers until they create a little cup.

pizza dough in muffin tin

Now add some mozzarella cheese first. This is just to make sure they don’t get sorry.

Next add some tomato sauce.

sauce on top of pizza dough

Then add some cheese again.

cheese going onto pizzas

After that you can add any toppings you’d like. I chose a little pepperoni.

pizza in muffin tins

Now place them in the oven and cook them according to the directions on the back of the can of Pillsbury Mini Pizza Crusts Package.

pizza cupcakes about to be baked

Let them cool slightly and carefully pop them out with your fingers or a butter knife.

finished pizza cupcakes

Finally serve warm and enjoy!

My son wanted to pretend he was missing a tooth with a piece of olive haha.

mom and dom

We all loved these so much!

ICE CREAM CONE CUPCAKES

August 9, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 2 Comments

Ice cream cone cupcakes are so easy to make and fun to eat.

Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Does anyone remember ice cream cone cupcakes?

We used to eat these as kids all the time.

ice cream cone cupcakes cover

It seemed like every birthday party served these when I was growing up in the 80’s and we absolutely loved them.

They were so exciting to eat back then and still are to be honest.

My sons were just introduced to them this weekend and were thrilled and intrigued at the same time.

rainbow cake mix

This is such a fun dessert.

A cupcake that looks just like an ice cream cone? Sign me up!!

The best part about this dessert is that not only are they absolutely adorable to look at but they’re super easy to make, too.

If you know me I’m very upfront about not being a great baker.

green icing ice cream cone cupcakes

It’s just not something that I was ever really good at so I try to avoid it most of the time.

Any dessert that I do make has to be pretty much fool proof.

That’s why I love these ice cream cone cupcakes so much.

white icing ice cream cone cupcakes

They’re almost impossible to mess up and they makes them right up my alley!

I know if you give this fun dessert a try that you’ll love it, too.

Other easy desserts

So I already admitted to not being a great baker.Any dessert I make has to be easy and taste good.

Im all about the semi homemade desserts because that’s even easier for me.

4 ingredient cherry danish

If you’re looking for some desserts that are super easy to make like these ice cream cone cupcakes here are a few great ones:

  • 3 ingredient blueberry cobbler
  • Muffin tin cinnamon roll apple pies
  • 4 ingredient cherry danish

Fast. Simple. Delicious

Did you know that I have a new cookbook out?

It’s called Fast Simple Delicious and it’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for any weeknight dinner.

fast simple delicious book cover

CLICK HERE to preorder your copy and thank you for supporting me in advance.

What cake mix should I use for these ice cream cone cupcakes?

We’ll first of all, you don’t need to use cake mix.

I’d you have a homemade cake mix recipe that you’d like to use please feel free to use that.

cake mix

I just love the convenience of the boxed cake mix.

If you’re like me and are going to use a cake mix, use any brand and flavor you like!

cake batter and ice cream cones

Any cake mix and icing flavor combination would work here so choose your favorite.

Won’t the ice cream cones burn?

Not at all.

cake batter in ice cream cones

The ice cream cones do not burn in the oven so don’t worry about baking them.

They’ll do just fine.

Tips for making the best ice cream cone cupcakes

We know that this dessert is easy peasy.

Especially using the boxed cake mix as a short cut.

cake batter in ice cream cones on baking sheet

As easy as these ice cream cone cupcakes are, there are just a couple tips to make them the best.

  • Don’t overfill the cones- make sure to add enough cake mix to the cones that the batter rises to the top. Don’t overdo it! If you pour more into the cones then the recommended amount it will spill over when they’re being baked.
  • Let them cool- let the cones cool completely before icing them. The icing will run off and it will create a big sloppy mess.
  • Flat bottom cones. This may seem obvious but be sure to get the cones with the flat bottoms so they stand upright nicely.
  • Stand them up- I had no problem keeping the cones filled with batter upright when I was baking them. If you think you could use some extra help try putting the cones into a muffin tin. You can wrap some tinfoil to the bottom so they fit inside each one nice and secure.
flat bottom ice cream cones

Ice cream cone cupcake ingredients

ice cream cone cupcakes with green icing
  • Boxed cake mix (and ingredients to make them)
  • Icing
  • Sprinkles
  • Jumbo flat bottom ice cream cones

Instructions

First preheat the oven to 350°.

cake boxed instructions

Now make the cake mix as it’s directed on the package.

making the cake mix

Then pour the cake mix into each ice cream cone ¾ of the way up.

pouring cake mix into ice cream cones

Place each filled ice cream cone onto a baking sheet.

cones filled with cake mix

Next carefully place the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cake mix is cooked all the way through.

ice cream cones with cake mix baked into it

Now let them cool completely before adding icing and sprinkles.

green icing cupcake cones

Serve cool and enjoy!

ice cream cone cupcakes
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Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes

These ice cream cone cupcakes are so easy to make and so fun to eat.
No ratings yet
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Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • baking sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box Funfetti Cake mix and ingredients to make it
  • 15 oz Icing any flavor
  • 24 Jumbo ice cream cones (flat bottom)
  • Sprinkles

Instructions
 

  • First preheat the oven to 350 degrees
  • Now make the cake mix according to the directions on the back of the package
  • Then evenly pour the cake mix into each ice cream cone about ¾ to the top
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cake mix is cooked all the way through
  • Let them cook completely before icing and adding the sprinkles. Serve and enjoy!
Keyword cupcake cones, ice cream cone cupcakes, ice cream cupcakes

LEMON AND DILL ROASTED POTATOES

August 7, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 3 Comments

These easy to make lemon and dill roasted potatoes are packed with the fresh flavors of lemon, garlic and dill.

Lemon and Dill Roasted Potatoes

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Lemon and dill roasted potatoes are such a unique side dish that packed with fresh flavors of lemon, dill and garlic.

All the different flavors going on in this recipe are absolutely incredible and go together perfectly.

My family loves potatoes in any form and we eat them often. It’s one of my families all time favorite side dishes.

Im always looking for new and exciting ways to serve them and this recipe is perfect!

They can be served with just about anything from Crockpot Smothered Chicken Legs to a nice juicy Skirt Steak. We've even served these as a holiday appetizer for Thanksgiving, Easter and Christmas.

The potatoes get so crispy on the preheated baking sheet. I learned that trick a few years ago and its changed my potato game forever.

The crispy seasoned potatoes with the fresh dill and lemon makes this a truly irresistible side dish. Its always a big hit whenever I make it.

This is for sure a recipe that you will make again and again. Its been years for me and I could never get tired of them.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know I have a cookbook? It’s called Fast Simple Delicious and it’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for any weeknight dinner.

CLICK HERE to order your copy of Fast Simple Delicious and thank you for the support!

Lemon And Dill Roasted Potatoes Variations

I like this potato recipe made just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Potatoes- Use any potato that you'd like Yukon Gold or Russet are great. Baby potatoes cut in quarters are wonderful, too.
  • Air Fryer- You absolutely can make these potatoes in the air fryer. Coat them in oil and season them as the recipe instructs and pop them into a 400 degree air fryer for 80-20 min shaking the basket half way. Then just continue to follow the recipe instuctions.

Other Easy Potato Recipes

If you like super easy to make potato recipes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes
  • Crispy Smashed Potatoes
  • Wasabi Mashed Potatoes
  • Easy Ranch Potatoes

Lemon and Dill Roasted Potatoes Ingredients

  • Potatoes, cleaned and diced into small pieces
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Garlic powder
  • Butter
  • Lemon
  • Lemon zest
  • Fresh dill

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400° and place the baking sheet inside the oven to preheat also.

First, place the cubed up potatoes into a large bowl.

Then, drizzle them with olive oil and season them with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Next, give the potatoes a good toss to make sure they’re evenly coated in the oil and seasoning.

Next, carefully take out the hot preheated baking sheet and add the potatoes to it in a single layer.

Then, bake them for about 25 minutes or until they’re crispy on all sides. I like to use a spatula and toss them around about half way through the cooking process.

Then in a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave.

Now, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh chopped dill.

Now, mix it all together and pour it over the roasted potatoes. Toss to coat the potatoes.

Finally, transfer them to a serving dish and serve warm. Enjoy!

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Lemon and Dill Roasted Potatoes

These lemon and dill roasted potatoes are a nice change to classic roasted potatoes and are so easy to make.
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Course Side Dish
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Lbs Potatoes, diced into small pieces
  • 3 Tbs Olive Oil
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tbs Garlic Powder
  • 3 Tbs Butter
  • ½ Large Lemon, juiced
  • 1 Large Lemon Zested
  • 3 Tbs Dill, Fresh

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and add the baking sheet into the oven so that preheats, too.
  • In the meantime, add the potatoes to a medium sized bowl and add the olive oil. Season them with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Toss to combine.
  • Carefully add the potatoes to the hot preheated baking sheet and put them back into the oven to cook for about 25 minutes or until the potatoes are nice and golden brown. I like to take a spatula and gently stir them around about half way through so they crisp up on all sides.
  • Melt the butter in a small bowl and add the lemon juice, zest and fresh dill. Mix everything together to combine.
  • Pour the dill butter right onto the top and toss them into the potatoes until they are all evenly coated.
  • Transfer them to serving bowl and serve warm. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword lemon and dill roasted potatoes

RITZ CRACKER CHICKEN

August 20, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 1 Comment

There are only 3 ingredients to this delicious Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken. Its so simple to make and always a hit!

Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Ranch Ritz cracker chicken may be the craziest food combo that just makes sense that I’ve ever posted.

ranch ritz cracker chicken cover

I mean, I love Ritz Cracker and I love Ranch dressing so why not combine the two?

The ranch acts as the perfect binder to hold the cracker “bread crumbs” onto the chicken.

These two ingredients together create a incredibly delicious experience.

ranch ritz cracker chicken tenders plated

The rich flavors from the ranch and the saltiness from the crackers are chefs kiss.

My whole family and my kids especially loved this dinner.

My son Dominic is always hesitant to try new things.

breaded chicken on the wire wrack

But that’s to be expected since he’s only 4 and anyone who has a kid around that age knows how that goes.

Once I convinced him to take a bite and “just try it for me” he was hooked!

This recipe is only 3 ingredients and so easy to make.

plated ritz cracker chicken

It’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner or an afternoon snack.

I know if you give this recipe a try that you’re going to love it, too.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a new cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious?

fast simple delicious book cover

It’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy week night dinners.

Click HERE to preorder your copy. Thank you!

Ranch/ Cracker Options

If you want to change this recipe a little bit of course you can.

As far as swap outs go, I’d just like to stick with the ranch and ritz combination.

rit crackers in a bag

Once we start changing the dressing flavor ir brand of cracker it becomes a whole different recipe in my opinion.

I just wanted to mention that I’d you’d like to use a fat free ranch or spicy ranch dressing they would both work.

ranch dressing in a bowl

Ritz has some different flavors of crackers that would all be okay to swap out, too.

Other Chicken Recipes

If you’re looking for some other great ways to jazz up your chicken dinners here are some other recipes that you’ll love.

zesty Italian chicken thighs
  • The best chicken cutlets
  • Taco lime chicken
  • Zesty Italian chicken thighs
  • Baked bbq chicken drumsticks
BBQ chicken drumsticks

What kind of chicken should I use?

I used tenderloins for this ranch Ritz Cracker chicken recipe.

If you’d like to use chicken breast or even chicken thighs they would both work fine.

chicken tenderloins

Just be aware that cooking times will more then likely need to be adjusted.

Make sure whatever piece of meat you choose that the internal temperature reaches 165° to be sure the chicken is cooked all the way through and safe to eat.

What brand ranch dressing should I use?

I used Hidden Valley Ranch for this recipe but use whatever your favorite brand is.

hidden valley ranch

They all work just fine.

Can this Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken be air fried?

Yes this recipe can absolutely work in the air fryer.

Just make it according to the instructions and instead of baking them in the oven, pop it into the air fryer.

air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400° and cook the check tenders for about 5-6 minutes on each side.

As always be sure the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165° and safe to eat before serving.

What should I serve with this Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken?

I always like to say that serving options are always up to you completely.

Whatever you’re in the mood for enjoy it!

roasted frozen green beans

There are no food rules here.

But If you are in need of a little inspo I’ve got you covered.

Lemon and dill roasted potatoes

Any combination of these two would work very will with this chicken recipe:

  • Frozen Roasted Green Beans
  • lemon & dill roasted potatoes
  • Parmesan crusted brussels sports

Mexican street corn casserole
  • Mexican street corn casserole
  • ranch butter corn
  • Garlic parmesan fries
  • Crispy oven roasted potatoes

Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken Ingredients

ranch ritz cracker chicken ingredients
  • Chicken tenderloins
  • Ritz crackers
  • Ranch dressing
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions

First crush up the ritz crackers in either a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and hitting them with rolling pin like I did.

crushed ritz crackers

Now in one bowl add the crushed crackers and in another add the ranch dressing.

bowl of ranch bowl of crushed crackers

Then evenly season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.

seasoned chicken tenderloins

Now dip the seasoned chicken into the ranch dressing until it’s coated in it.

dipping chicken into ranch

Next add the chicken to the crushed crackers and roll them around until they’re evenly coated.

dipping chicken into ritz crackers

Then add the chicken to a wire rack over a baking sheet.

chicken on wire wrack

Place them in a 350° for about 25/30 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°.

ranch ritz cracker chicken about to go into the oven

Let them cool slightly and serve! The breading is delicate so handle gently!

ranch ritz cracker chicken on wire rack

Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken
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Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken

There's only 3 ingredients to this delicious Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken
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Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • wire baking rack

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins
  • ½ cup ranch dressing
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed into small bread crumb like pieces)
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350.
  • In two separate bowls, add the crushed crackers and the ranch
  • Season the tenderloins with salt and pepper on both sides
  • Dip the chicken into the ranch and completely coat it. Then roll it around into the crushed crackers until they are covering the chicken completely.
  • Add the beaded chicken to a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30. minutes or until the chicken is cooked all the way through.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken, Ritz Cracker Chicken

CHICKEN NUGGET PARMESAN

August 25, 2022 by Al Dente Diva Leave a Comment

Chicken nugget parmesan is a short cut version of the tedious classic that kids love.

Chicken Nugget Parmesan

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Chicken nugget parmesan is an “Italian tragedy”.

Well, that’s what Gordon Ramsey said when I posted this on social media.

chicken nugget parmesan cover

He had seen my recipe and did one of his famous Gordon Reacts videos.

Here’s the reaction video. If you’d like to see it.

gordon Ramsey reacts

So he didn’t love this recipe but I promise its a good one.

Gordon just didn’t get it. This is such a great shortcut version for chicken Parmesan sliders.

Ramsey reacts

Especially for kids. Chicken nuggets are hard for them to resist.

Any recipe that’s easy to make and that my kids love too is a win for me.

chicken nugget parmesan finished

These sliders are so simple to make and perfect for a snack, lunch or even dinner.

Everyone always loves these cheesy chicken little sandwiches.

I hope you give this chicken nugget parm a try. I know you’ll love it.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a new cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious?

fast simple delicious

It’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Preorder your copy HERE. Thank you for the support.

What chicken nuggets should I use?

I used Perdue dinosaur chicken nuggets for this recipe.

I thought my kids would enjoy that better than regular chicken nuggets.

dino nuggets

Any brand you’d like to use would be fine. It really doesn’t matter at all.

Just be sure to cook them according to the directions on the package first.

What tomato sauce should I use?

That’s completely up to you!

I used Raoes Homemade marinara sauce here but use whatever brand you’re into.

tomato sauce

If you’re looking for a good homemade sauce recipe, I have one HERE.

What can I serve this chicken nugget parmesan with?

There are so many great sides to serve with these sliders.

Here are a few great recipes that would go along with these perfectly.

  • Tortellini salad
  • Frozen roasted green beans
  • Garlic Parmesan fries
roasted frozen green beans
  • Ranch butter corn
  • Roasted broccoli

Chicken Nugget Parmesan Ingredients

chicken nugget parmesan sliders
  • Chicken nuggets (I used dino nuggets) cooked according to the package.
  • Kings Hawaiian Rolls
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Tomato sauce
  • Butter
  • Garlic powder
  • Parsley
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

First, open your Hawaiian rolls and cut them vertically down the center without separating the individual rolls and place them into a baking dish sprayed with cooking spray.

sliders in baking dish

Then add a thick layer of tomato sauce to the bottom half of the rolls.

sauce on sliders

Now add the mozzarella cheese on top of the tomato sauce.

mozzarella cheese on sliders

Next add the cooked chicken nuggets. Be sure to line them up with the individual rolls as best as you can.

chicken nuggets on sliders

After that add another layer of mozzarella cheese.

Now add more tomato sauce.

cheese and sauce on top

Then add some Parmesan cheese. I like to call this an “Italian blizzard”.

parmesan cheese on sliders

Add the top of the rolls back on.

buns on siders

In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave and add the garlic powder and parsley.

melted seasoned butter

Brush the garlic butter on top of the rolls.

butter on top of sliders

Bake them at 350° for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them they burn fast.

chicken nugget parmesan sliders done

Finally let them cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

chicken nugget parmesan
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Chicken Nugget Parmesan

Take a shortcut using premade chicken nuggets for these delicious chicken nugget parmesan sliders.
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Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package Kings Hawaiian Rolls
  • cooking spray
  • ¾ cup Tomato Sauce
  • 12 slices Mozzarella Cheese
  • 12 Dino Nuggets or regular chicken nuggets
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese
  • 2 tbs Butter, metled
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Parsley, dry

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Cut the rolls in half (horizontally) and place the bottom of the rolls onto the sprayed baking dish.
  • Add half of the tomato sauce to the bottom half of the rolls and add half of the mozzarella cheese slices
  • Then add the cooked chicken nuggets on top. Try to place them into each individual roll place
  • Then add the rest of the mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce. Place the top of the rolls on top.
  • Add the garlic and parsley to the melted butter. Stir it together and brush in on top of the rolls.
  • Bake them for 10-12 minutes or until the rolls and lightly toasted.
  • Let them cool slightly and serve warm.
Keyword chicken nugget parmesan, chicken nugget recipes, chicken parmesan

FROZEN ROASTED GREEN BEANS

August 19, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 10 Comments

These frozen roasted green beans are made using frozen green beans, olive oil and simple seasonings tossed in parmesan cheese for an effortless and delicious side dish.

Frozen Roasted Green Beans

It's unbelievable how incredibly easy and delicious these frozen roasted green beans are.

There has never been an easier side dish recipe than this one and using frozen vegetables makes it super convenient, too.

There's not much more to do beyond opening the frozen beans, seasoning them, and tossing the whole thing in the oven.

This recipe requires very little effort, but that's not even the best part. The best part is that these green beans are absolutely amazing.

I've made these so many times for causal dinners at home and holidays, too.

finish roasted green beans

I always get so many compliments on it whenever I do. Even my picky kids love this recipe.

This is almost guaranteed to make it onto your side dish dinner rotation.

I always have to eat some right off the pan when they come out of the oven because I can't wait.

It's actually hard to not keep going back in for “one more bite.”

I absolutely love fast and easy recipes like this! My family and I devoured this one.

I’m sure if you give this one a try that you’ll love it just as much, too.

Fast. Simple. Delicious

Did you know I have a new cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious?

It’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

fast simple delicious book

Preorder your copy HERE and thank you in advance for all the support.

Can these frozen roasted green beans be made int he air fryer?

Yes, this recipe can absolutely be made in the air fryer.

Air fry them at 400 degrees for about 10-12 minutes.

Shake the basked half way through to make sure then beans cook evenly.

What can I serve these green beans with?

This side dish is fantastic because it can be served with so many different things.

They go perfectly with a throw together weekday dinner or a nice holiday meal, too.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are a few diner ideas I love to serve these with.

  • The BEST chicken cutlets
  • Stovetop stuffing meatloaf
  • Marinated skirt steak
  • Baked bbq chicken drumsticks

Other Side Dishes

If you like recipes like this frozen roasted green beans that are super delicious and easy to make here are some more you would love, too.

Lemon and dill roasted potatoes
  • Parmesan crusted brussels sprouts
  • roasted garlic Parmesan broccoli
  • Mexican street corn casserole
parmesan crusted brussels sprouts
  • Crispy oven roasted potatoes
  • Lemon & dill roasted potatoes

Frozen Roasted Green Beans Ingredients

  • Frozen green beans
  • Olive oil
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Garlic powder
  • Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

First, add the frozen green beans to a casserole dish or baking sheet.

Now, drizzle them with the olive oil and season with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Then mix the oil and seasonings into the green beans.

Next, bake them in a 400° oven for about 35 minutes.

Now add the Parmesan cheese and toss it into the roasted green beans.

Finally, let them cool slightly and enjoy.

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Frozen Roasted Green Beans

These frozen roasted green beans are made using frozen green beans, olive oil and simple seasonings tossed in parmesan cheese for an effortless and delicious side dish.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 14oz Frozen Green Beans bag
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 tbs Olive Oil
  • 1.5 tbs Garlic Powder
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and add the frozen green beans to a casserole dish or baking sheet.
  • Drizzle them with the olive oil and season with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
  • Toss them to combine and bake them in the oven for 30 minutes
  • Add the parmesan cheese and toss them again for one last time.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword frozen green beans, frozen roasted green beans, roasted green beans

CLASSIC FRENCH TOAST

September 12, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 2 Comments

Just a few basic ingredients are all you need to make this incredibly delicious classic french toast for breakfast.

Classic French Toast

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

There’s something really nice about making classic french toast for breakfast.

classic French toast cover

It just feels extra special to me to serve this to my family on the weekends.

No rushing to work or school. Everyone can slow down, sit at the table and enjoy this breakfast together.

stacked French toast
My sons stuffed animals helped us cook this morning.

Enjoy being the key word here. This is a breakfast recipe that we can all agree on.

Everybody loves french toast. It’s sweet and savory and overall just a joy to eat.

French toast in the skillet

French toast isn’t hard to make at all either. The recipe is super easy and doesn’t take much time to put together at all.

And if you are a french toast fan and would like a little change from this classic recipe, try this NUTELLA FRENCH TOAST next.

If you have just a couple of extra minutes in the morning this classic french toast breakfast can be on your table in no time.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious?

fast simple delicious book

It’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Preorder your copy HERE and thanks for the support.

What should I serve as a side?

This recipe is sweet and savory all in one and can be served completely by itself.

crispy oven roasted bacon

Just a little side of fruit, some baked bacon, sausage or scrambled eggs would all be nice additions If you’re looking for something to ad to it.

What type of bread should I use?

French toast can really be made with whatever kind of bread that you’d like.

sliced white bread

I’ve even made it with cinnamon raisin bread and sliced day old donuts.

I used classic white bread because that’s what I had on hand.

soaked French toast in butter

Brioche and challah are wonderful choices for this recipe, too.

Other quick and easy breakfast recipes

Here are some other really fast and simple to put together breakfast recipes that I know you’ll love.

4 ingredient cherry danish
  • Cinnamon roll waffles
  • Sheet pan breakfast pizza
  • 4 ingredient cherry danish
  • Breakfast crescent rolls
sheet pan breakfast pizza

Classic French toast ingredients:

classic French toast ingredients
  • Sliced bread
  • Eggs
  • Cinnamon
  • Sugar
  • Milk
  • Butter
  • Vanilla
  • Syrup

Instructions:

First, in a shallow bowl add the eggs, vanilla, milk, cinnamon sugar and salt.

milk, cinnamon in a bowl

Then beat them together using a fork.

French toast wet ingredients being mixed

Now add the sliced bread one at a time and flip it over until both sides are soaked in the French toast mixture.

bread soaking in the French toast

Don’t leave it in too long or the bread will fall apart.

French toast in the pan

Then in a large skillet, melt the butter over medium high heat and add the French toast slices.

soaked bread being cooked

Flip the bread until it’s golden brown on both sides.

French toast browning

Remove the cooked French toast and stack them onto a plate.

stacked French toast

Serve warm with a little extra butter and syrup and maybe some crispy oven baked bacon on the side. Enjoy!

French toast with butter and syrup

Classic French toast
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Classic French Toast

This is a simple recipe with only a few ingredients for classic French toast
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Course Breakfast
Cuisine American, French

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices bread
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tbs sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 tbs butter (more if you'd like to serve some on top)
  • syrup

Instructions
 

  • In a shallow bowl, add the eggs, milk, vanilla, sugar, cinnamon and salt. Beat them together with a fork
  • Then add each slice of bread and flip in until both sides are soaked but not falling apart.
  • In a large skillet melt the butter over medium high heat and add the slices of French toast. You'll need to cook these in batches. Flip the bread until they're golden brown on both sides
  • Serve them staked on a plate with syrup and extra butter if you'd like. Enjoy!
Keyword classic french toast, easy french toast recipe, french toast

SAUSAGE AND PEPPER PATTY MELT

September 17, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 2 Comments

The short cut for this sausage and pepper patty melt will save you so much time and is absolutely delicious.

Sausage and Pepper Patty Melt

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This sausage and pepper patty melt is so delicious and easy to make, too.

I used to make sausage and pepper sandwiches and it would take me forever.

sausage and pepper patty melt cover

Those sausage links are so good but can really take a while to cook.

Not to mentions that once they’re sliced it’s super hard to eat the actual sandwich.

They’re slipping and sliding all over the place and everything is falling apart.

sausage and pepper sandwich

It can be a complete sloppy mess.

Once I switched from sausage links to patties my whole sandwich game changed.

Why the heck didn’t I think of this earlier?!?!

open faced sausage and pepper sandwich

This small switch make the biggest difference.

This way is much easier to eat and takes much less time to prepare, too.

This dinner recipe is a winner!

These sandwiches are a great idea for lunch, too.

I know if you try this one you’re going to love it, too.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know I have a new cookbook out called Fast Simple Delicious?

fast simple delicious book

It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Preorder your copy HERE and thank you for the support.

What sauce should I use?

I cut a corner here and used jarred Raoes Homemade marinara sauce.

jarred raoes sauce

If you’d like to make your own that’s great!

I have an awesome recipe for homemade tomato sauce if you’d like one, too.

simple Italian Tomato sauce cover

Do I have to use the flat sausage patties?

No you don’t technically have to use the flat patties for this recipe.

If you’d prefer to use the traditional sausage links you can!

sausage patty melt

Just be sure to cook them all the way through.

What rolls should I use?

This depends on you!

kaiser rolls

Use whatever rolls are your favorite.

I prefer the Kaiser rolls because they’re big and can handle all this filling.

sliced open kaiser rolls

So use whatever you’d like. This is even good by less and a nice low carb or keto recipe.

What to serve with Sausage and pepper patty melts

There’s not much you need to serve along side these sandwiches. They’ve got the carbs, protein and vegetables covered!

garlic parmesan fries

If you are looking to add something here a nice simple salad would be a good choice.

Garlic Parmesan French fries, green beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts or maybe even some pasta would be wonderful, too!

roasted frozen green beans

Other Sausage Recipes:

Here are some other really easy and delicious recipes that use sausage also.

stuffed sausage and peppers
  • Stuffed sausage and peppers
  • Sausage rigatoni
  • Sheet pan breakfast pizza
  • Tortellini soup
sheet pan breakfast pizza

Ingredients:

two sausage and pepper sandwiches
  • Kaiser Rolls
  • Tomato sauce
  • Sausage Patties
  • Bell pepper, sliced
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Onion, sliced
  • Salt & pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Olive oil

Sausage and Pepper Patty Melt Instructions

First, in a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium high heat and add the peppers and onions.

seasoned peppers and onions in skillet

Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are soft and all the salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

sautéed peppers and onions

Next add the tomato sauce and stir it into the sausage and peppers.

sauce in peppers and onions on skillet

Set the peppers and onions in the sauce aside and keep them warm.

peppers and onions in a bowl kept warm

Now add the sausage patties to a skillet over medium high heat and brown them on both sides until they’re cooked completely through. This should take about 4 minutes on each side.

sausage patty links browning

Then add a slice of mozzarella cheese to the top of each sausage patty.

mozzarella cheese on sausage patties

I like to carefully add a little water to the pan and lid it. The water creates steam and melts the cheese perfectly.

cheese melting

Then cut the roll in half horizontally and add some of the peppers and onions.

peppers and onions on kaiser rolls

Now top it with the sausage patty with cheese. I sprinkled a little dry basil on top but that's totally optional.

melted cheese on sausage

Finally close the sandwich with the top roll and you’re done!

sausage and pepper sandwich

Serve warm and enjoy.

sausage and pepper patty melt
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Sausage and Pepper Patty Melt

Using flat patties was a total game changer for this sausage and pepper patty melt
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Kaiser Rolls
  • 4 Sausage Patties
  • 4 slices Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1 large Bell Pepper, sliced
  • 1 large Onion, sliced
  • 2 tbs Olive Oil
  • Salt and Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • ½ cup Tomato Sauce
  • Dried Basil (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat the ½ of the olive oil over medium high heat and add the sliced peppers and onions. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
  • Now add the tomato sauce and stir everything together. Set it aside and keep it warm.
  • In a large skillet over medium high heat add the rest of the olive oil and the sausage patties. Brown them on both sides until they're cooked all the way through.
  • Then add a slice of mozzarella cheese to the top of each patty. I like to melt the cheese by carefully adding a little bit of water to the hot skillet and placing a lid on top. The steam will melt the cheese perfectly. I like to add a little dried basil but that's optional.
  • Now slice open the rolls and evenly distribute the peppers and onions on the bottom of each roll. Top with the sausage patty and cheese and close the sandwich with the top of the roll.
  • Serve warm and enjoy
Keyword patty melt, sausage and pepper sandwich, sausage patty melt

MUFFIN TIN CHICKEN POT PIES

September 20, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 3 Comments

Muffin tin chicken pot pies are the cutest way to individually serve this classic comfort food.

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

If you’ve never made muffin tin chicken pot pies you’re really missing out.

muffin tin chicken pot pie cover

I love tradition pot pie recipes but they can sometimes be a pain in the butt to make.

Especially for someone like me who’s busy and also admittedly not a great baker.

pot pie in muffin tin

It’s so hard to get that crust just right and that’s the best part!

Not only is this recipe a short cut version of the traditional classic but it tastes incredible, too.

plated chicken pot pie

Delicious and easy to make is a win win for me.

These little individual chicken pot pie portions are perfect for dinner, lunch or even an after school snack.

chicen pot pie filling in biscuits

My family loves when I make these and have them in the fridge to warm up for whenever they’re feeling a little hungry.

I know if you try these that you’ll love them, too.

plated chicken pot pies

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know I have a new cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious?

It’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

Preorder your copy HERE and thanks for the support!

Do I have to use rotisserie chicken?

Nope. You don’t have to use rotisserie chicken for this recipe.

Canned chicken, or cooked chicken breast (cubed up) would work here also.

shredding chicken

If you’d like to roast your own chicken I have great recipe for that HERE.

Just be sure to use the same amount when measuring and you’ll be good to go!

How can I reheat these?

These muffin tin chicken pot pies reheat very easily.

Just pop them back into the muffin tins, cover them with foil and bake at 300° for about 10 minutes.

chicken pot pie in muffin tin

They will be nice and warm without over browning the crust.

Other easy chicken recipes

If you like fast and easy recipes using chicken like this one, here are a few others that you’d love, too.

Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken
  • Taco Lime Chicken
  • The BEST chicken cutlets
  • Semi homemade orange chicken
taco lime chicken

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies Ingredients

chicken pot pie ingredients
  • Pillsbury biscuits
  • Rotisserie chicken
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Frozen (thawed) vegetable medley
  • Salt & pepper
  • Dried thyme
  • Dried rosemary
  • Garlic powder

Instructions

First, in a large bowl add the cream of chicken soup, bag of frozen (and thawed) vegetable mix, and shredded rotisserie chicken.

shredded chicken

Then season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme and rosemary.

seasoning in pot pie filling

Now mix it all together until it’s evenly combined.

pot pie filling

Next spray a muffin tin with cooking spray and add a biscuit to each section. Push down with your fingers to make individual cups.

biscuits in sprayed muffin tin

Then take some of the filling and add it to the center or each one.

pot pie filling going into biscuit dough

After that bake them in a 350° oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust is nice and golden brown.

chicken pot pies in the muffin tin

Finally carefully remove them using a butter knife or your fingers and serve warm. Enjoy!

plated mini chicken pot pies

muffin tin chicken pot pie
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Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pie

These muffin tin chicken pot pies are an adorable way to serve this classic in individual portions.
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Course Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • muffin tin

Ingredients
  

  • cooking spray
  • 1 cup Rotisserie chicken, shredded
  • 1 10oz Frozen vegetable medley (thawed)
  • 2 cans Pillsbury biscuits
  • 1 10.5 oz can Campbells cream of chicken soup
  • salt and pepper
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary (dried)
  • 1 teaspoon thyme (dried)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chicken soup, vegetables, salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme and rosemary. Stir everything until its evenly combined.
  • Spray a muffin pan with cooking spray and place a biscuit inside each one. Using your finders, mold the dough into little cups.
  • Evenly divide the pot pie filling into each of the biscuit cups. Bake at 350 degrees for about 10-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.
  • Let them cool slightly before removing them with your fingers or a butter knife and enjoy!
Keyword mini chicken pot pie, muffin tin chicken pot pies, muffin tin recipes

CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN PASTA

November 6, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 3 Comments

Creamy garlic parmesan pasta is made with an easy to make garlic parmesan sauce tossed in bow tie pasta for a delicious dinner in under 30 minutes.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This creamy garlic parmesan pasta may be the most simple and delicious recipes that I have ever shared.

Remember eating plain pasta with melted butter and maybe a little bit of parmesan cheese when we were kids?

This is a lot like that but better. The overall concept is basically the same but the flavor and texture of the sauce is just a little bit more elevated.

Its perfect because both the kids and adults in my house all love it so much. Myself included. Not to mention its super easy to make, too.

This recipe can be thrown together and on the table in less than 30 minutes. It's a great dinner for a busy weeknight.

Sometimes simple comfort food recipes like this just completely hit the spot. They do for my family and I at least.

It can also be served alone as a main course or as a smaller side dish to pretty much any main course that you can think of.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy week day dinners.

fast simple delicious

Get your copy HERE and thank you for the support.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Variations

I like this recipe made just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Pasta- Use any shape of pasta that you'd like for this recipe. Just be sure to boil the pasta in salted water and save some to add to the sauce.
  • Both-Use vegetable or chicken broth.
  • Add Ins- Feel free to add in some cooked vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms. Some cooked chicken would be delicious, too.

Other Easy Pasta Recipes

If you like super easy to make pasta recipes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Pesto Alfredo With Sun Dried Tomatoes
  • Spicy Vodka Rigatoni
  • Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
  • Creamy Cafeteria Noodles

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Ingredients

  • Bow Tie Pasta
  • Butter
  • Olive Oil
  • Flour
  • Garlic, minced
  • Vegetable Broth
  • Milk
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder and Italian Seasoning

Instructions

First, melt the butter and olive oil over medium high heat in a large skillet and add the garlic. Cook them together for just a minute.

Next, add the four and whisk it into the butter for two minutes.

Now, slowly add in the chicken broth and whisk it into the flour until smooth.

Then, whisk in the milk and season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

Then, reduce the heat to medium low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken up and stir in the parmesan cheese.

Next, add the bow tie pasta and pasta water.

Now, toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.

Finally, serve warm and enjoy!

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Creamy garlic parmesan pasta is made with an easy to make garlic parmesan sauce tossed in bow tie pasta for a delicious dinner in under 30 minutes.
No ratings yet
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Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Bow Tie Pasta (and a ladle of pasta water)
  • 2 tbs Butter
  • 2 tbs Olive Oil
  • ¼ cup Flour
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups Vegetable Broth
  • 1 ½ cups Milk
  • ¼-1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbs Italian Seasoning
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Melt the butter and olive oil over medium high heat in a large skillet and add the garlic. Cook them together for just a minute.
  • Add the four and whisk it into the butter for two minutes.
  • Slowly add in the chicken broth and whisk it into the flour until smooth.
  • Whisk in the milk and season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
  • Reduce the heat to medium low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken up and stir in the parmesan cheese.
  • Add the bow tie pasta and pasta water.
  • Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
  • Finally, serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

ROASTED CHICKEN PAN SAUCE

October 30, 2022 by Al Dente Diva Leave a Comment

This flavorful roasted chicken pan sauce is made with the drippings from a roasted chicken cooked with white wine, chicken both, vegetables and just a few other simple ingredients for a deliciously flavorful sauce that will take your dinner to the next level.

Roasted Chicken Pan Sauce

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito.

This roasted chicken pan sauce is the perfect thing to enhance your already delicious chicken dinner and take it to the next level.

I promise that this recipe will change the way you eat chicken forever. Form the very first time that I made this sauce over chicken for my family they were all hooked.

My husband and kids are all big chicken eaters so I try to make it as often as I can. It's affordable, delicious and super easy to make.

Adding this easy to make sauce takes a dish thats already a family favorite and makes it just a little bit more exciting and special.

The best thing about this sauce is that it can be made with any roasted chicken recipe that you'd like. So if you have a favorite that you'd just like to add a little something different to, this recipe is perfect.

This keeps the chicken moist and warm, too. Theres nothing worse than a dry, flavorless chicken. This recipe will make sure you never have to eat one of those again.

This sauce has become a must have on all of our roasted chicken dinner nights its that good.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy week day dinners.

fast simple delicious book

Order your copy HERE & thank you for the support.

Roasted Chicken Pan Sauce Variations

I like this pan sauce recipe made just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Chicken- This sauce can be made with any roasted chicken recipe that you'd like. It would even work with roasted chicken legs or thighs, too.
  • Broth- Either chicken or vegetable broth can both be used.
  • Seasoning- Feel free to add any additional seasoning like sage or lemon that you would like to.

Other Easy Chicken Recipes

If you love super easy to make recipes for chicken, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Crockpot Smothered Chicken
  • Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
  • Crockpot White Chicken Chili
  • Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Roasted Chicken Pan Sauce Ingredients

  • Butter
  • Pan drippings from a roasted chicken
  • Onion
  • Celery
  • Garlic
  • White wine
  • Chicken Broth
  • Salt & pepper
  • Rosemary
  • Thyme

Instructions:

First, roast the chicken and remove it from the baking sheet or roasting pan.

Now, in a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the celery, onions and garlic for about 5 minutes. The vegetables can be kept in large pieces because we’re going to strain it out later. You don't really even need to peel the garlic if you don't want to.

Now, stir in the flour and let that cook for an additional two minutes stirring frequently.

Then, add all of the drippings from the pan that was left after roasting the chicken. Be sure to scrape everything off and get all of that good stuff in there.

Next, add the white wine and chicken broth.

Now season it with salt, pepper, rosemary and thyme.

white wine being added

After that, turn the heat up to medium high and let the liquid softly boil for about ⅘ minutes.

The sauce is ready once it reduces by half. Add a little butter and stir it in.

Finally strain the sauce into a small sauce pan to easily keep it warm if you need to.

Serve warm over the roasted chicken and enjoy.

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Roasted Chicken Pan Sauce

This flavorful roasted chicken pan sauce is made with the drippings from a roasted chicken cooked with white wine, chicken both, vegetables and just a few other simple ingredients for a deliciously flavorful sauce that will take your dinner to the next level.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • strainer

Ingredients
  

  • Pan Drippings
  • 2 tbs Butter (divided)
  • 1 large Onion, chopped into large pieces
  • 2 stalks Celery, chopped into large pieces
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 1 tbs Flour
  • ¼ cup White Wine
  • ½ cup Chicken Stock
  • 1 tbs Thyme
  • 1 tbs Rosemary
  • Salt & Pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet melt half the butter and add the celery, garlic and onion. Saute that or about 3-5 minutes.
  • Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 2 minutes stirring frequently.
  • Add the pan the drippings from the baking sheet or roasting pan that you roasted your chicken on, the wine and the chicken stock.
  • Season it with salt, pepper, rosemary and thyme and raise the heat until the liquid is at a soft boil.
  • Once the liquid reduces by about half ( should take about 5 minutes) add the rest of the butter and stir it in.
  • Strain the sauce over a small saucepan. You can keep the sauce warm on the stove until your ready to serve it on or next to your chicken. Enjoy!!
Keyword pan sauce, roasted chicken pan sauce, sauce for chicken

CHEESE STUFFED BREADSTICKS

November 7, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 2 Comments

These easy to make cheese stuffed bread sticks are baked in a buttery crust until golden brown and oozing with melted mozzarella cheese.

Cheese Stuffed Bread Sticks

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

There’s not much more I can say about these cheese stuffed bread sticks besides you absolutely need to make them.

cheese stuffed bread sticks cover

You just gotta trust me on this one! They’re incredibly delicious and super easy to make.

You don’t even need many more ingredients beyond a can of Pillsbury crescent rolls and a package of string cheese.

The concept is brilliant- wrap some dough around the string cheese and bake it in garlic butter.

cheese stuffed bread sticks on baking sheet

Now imagine that being dunked into some warm marinara sauce.

How could anyone possibly resist that?

When I make this recipe for my family they devoured them.

bread sticks with dipping sauce

This is like flakey buttery garlic bread with melted cheese stuffed into the center.

I know you’re going to love this one if you give it a try. It’s kind of impossible not to.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious?

It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

fast simple delicious cook book

Get your copy HERE and thanks for the support.

Do I have to use crescent rolls?

I used crescent rolls for this recipe but you don’t necessarily have to.

Pizza dough would work here also. It won’t be as flakey and buttery but it will work.

pillsbury dough

Biscuit dough would work, too. Expect those to puff up and rise a little more when baking.

If you have a homemade dough recipe you’d like to us, go for it!

pillsbury dough can

Just swap out whatever dough you’d like and continue to follow the rest of the recipe.

Do I have to use mozzarella cheese sticks?

Absolutely not.

I did for this recipe but use whatever you’d like.

There are a bunch of different variety of cheese sticks out there.

crescent rolls and string cheese

I’d you’d like to switch it up and try some pepper jack or Colby be my guest.

Experiment and make it your own.

Other recipes using premade dough.

I love a good short cut.

Using premade dough is such a great way to cut a corner and save time.

muffin tin chicken pot pie

Here are some other great recipes using premade doughs.

  • Dorito taco pizza
  • Easy cheesy bread
  • 4 ingredient cherry danish
  • Muffin tin chicken pot pies
  • Pizza cupcakes
  • Sheet pan breakfast pizza
  • Ham and cheese crescent rolls
pizza cupcakes

Cheese stuffed bread stick ingredients

string cheese in a crescent roll
  • Pillsbury crescent rolls
  • Sting cheese (mozzarella)
  • Butter
  • Salt & pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning

Instructions:

First, open the crescent rolls and separate the triangles.

crescent roll triangle

Now open the string cheese and add the whole thing to the longest side of the crescent roll.

string cheese in a crescent roll

Then wrap the dough around the cheese stick.

string cheese wrapped in a crescent roll

Try to be sure to seal the edges as much as you can so all the cheese doesn’t pour out when it’s being baked.

string cheese and crescent rolls on baking sheet

Next add them to a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Keep in mind they will expand so leave some room in between them.

Pop them in the fridge for about 15 minutes before baking.

string cheese wrapped crescent rolls spread out on baking sheet

In the meantime, grab a small bowl and melt the butter and stir in all of the seasoning.

garlic butter being make

Then once the 15 minutes in the fridge is up, brush the bread sticks with the butter mixture.

garlic butter on bread sticks

After that bake them in the oven at 375° for about 10 minutes.

garlic butter on bread sticks

Finally serve them warm with marinara sauce on the side for dunking and enjoy.

garlic butter bread stick out of the oven

LIPTON ONION ROASTED POTATOES

December 5, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 7 Comments

These Lipton Onion Roasted Potatoes are made with just three simple ingredients and the perfect side dish to compliment any meal.

Lipton Onion Roasted Potatoes

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These Lipton Onion Roasted Potatoes are made with just three simple ingredients and couldn't be more delicious.

These onion soup packets caught my eye at Shoperite because they were on sale. So, I decided to pick one up and check it out.

I'm so glad that I did because this recipe was right there on the back on the package. Sometimes the most amazing recipes are right under out noses. We just have to know where to look for them.

I needed a simple side dish to make for dinner and this couldn't have been more perfect. My family loves potatoes and were always looking for new and exiting ways to make them. It was a nice little break from my usual Easy Ranch Potatoes and Crispy Smashed Potato recipes.

Not only is this recipe super easy to make but its also packed with flavor. This is one of those side dishes that just pairs perfectly with whatever main dish you’re serving. So feel free to make it to compliment whatever you've already got planned on the dinner menu for tonight.

Crispy, flavorful seasoned potatoes that are effortless to make are always a great idea for any night of the week.

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, i know you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast. Simple. Delicious.

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

fast simple delicious

Get a copy HERE and thanks for the support.

Lipton Onion Roasted Potatoes Variations

I love this recipe made just the way it is but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Potatoes-This recipe is great because it can be used with pretty much whatever kind of potato that you'd like besides sweet potatoes. Choose your favorite. You can also peel them if you prefer, too.
  • Cooking Method- Instead of roasting the potatoes, they can absolutely be done in the air fryer. Set the air fryer temperature to 400° and time to about 15 minutes. Give the basket a shake about half way through and you'll be good to go.
  • Seasoning- The onion soup packet backs a lot of flavor but feel free to add any additional seasonings that you'd like to.

Other Easy Side Dish Recipes

If you like super easy to make side dish recipes like this one, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Garlic Parmesan Corn On The Cob
  • Mexican Macaroni Salad
  • Italian Combo Pasta Salad
  • Chili Frito Corn Salad

Lipton Onion Roasted Potatoes Ingredients

  • Potatoes (3-4)
  • Vegetable or Olive Oil
  • Lipton Onion Recipe Secrets Packet

Lipton Onion Roasted Potatoes Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425° and pop the baking sheet in to preheat, too.

First, dice your potatoes into equal size pieces and add them to a medium sized bowl.

Next, drizzle them with oil and add the onion soup packet.

Now, mix everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated in the seasoning.

Then, add them to the preheated baking sheet in a single layer. Place them in the oven for about 15 minutes.

Now, give them a toss on the baking sheet and pop them back into the oven for another 15 minutes or until the potatoes are nice and crispy.

Finally, transfer them to a serving dish, serve warm and enjoy.

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Lipton Onion Roasted Potatoes

These Lipton Onion Roasted Potatoes are made with just three simple ingredients and the perfect side dish to compliment any meal.
3.67 from 3 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 3-4 Large Idaho Potatoes
  • 1 Packet Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion
  • ⅓ cup Vegetable Oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425° and pop the baking sheet in the oven to preheat, too.
  • First, dice the potatoes into small, even pieces, and add them to a medium sized bowl. You can also peel the potatoes if you prefer, too.
  • Add the oil and Lipton Onion packet to the bowl. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated.
  • Add them to the preheated baking sheet in a single layer.
  • Place them into the oven for 15 minutes, toss them half way through, then put them back into the oven for an addition 15 minutes.
  • Finally, transfer them to a serving dish, serve warm and enjoy.
Keyword lipton onion soup potatoes

EASY LASAGNA SOUP

November 30, 2022 by Al Dente Diva 3 Comments

Easy lasagna soup combines all the delicious flavors of classic Italian lasagna with the comfort of soup for a dinner the the whole family will love.

Easy Lasagna Soup

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This easy lasagna soup is the perfect way to keep warm this fall and winter. It's the ultimate comfort food.

This recipe was making its rounds like crazy on social media a few years ago. As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to make it and Im so glad that I did.

Of course, I put my own little spin on it and made it my own to suit my families preferences. They all couldn't have loved it more.

What a delicious way to get all of the familiar flavors of lasagna in an easy to make soup. It's brilliant!

lasagna soup in pot

Comfort food and cold weather go hand in hand. As soon as the temperature starts to drop in New Jersey we're ready for our soups and chilis.

Im always looking to add new recipes to the collection and this one earned a permanent spot on the list immediately. Especially since it got approval from my two picky kids.

Lasagna is a family favorite of ours in my house but making it can be kind of a hassle. Between preparing all of the ingredients and the time consuming layering, It's a tedious process for sure.

This recipe takes all the fuss out of the equation and gets straight to the good stuff. It takes less than half the time that it normally takes me to make a traditional lasagna.

It's the perfect busy weekday dinner that the whole family is guaranteed to enjoy.

I hope you give this recipe a try, If you do, I know you'll love it just as much as my family and I do.

Fast Simple Delicious

Did you know that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss, no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinners.

fast simple delicious

Order a copy HERE and thanks for the support.

Easy Lasagna Soup Variations

I like this recipe for lasagna soup made just the way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you'd like to.

  • Tomato Sauce- Use a good jarred sauce Raoes or Victorias or your own tomato sauce recipe. I have a great recipe for Simple Tomato Sauce if you'd like to use that, click HERE.
  • Pasta- In most recipes broken up lasagna sheets are used. It is lasagna soup after all. I used Campanelle because it looks similar to the wavy ends of traditional lasagna sheets and makes it easier to eat in my opinion. Fell free to use whatever you'd like. Any pasta would work fine.
  • Heavy Cream- Alfredo sauce can be substituted for heavy cream. I have an easy and delicious recipe for Alfredo Sauce HERE or you can use your own or a good jarred alfredo.
  • Ground Meat- Ground chicken or turkey can be used here instead of ground beef.

Other Easy Soup Recipes

If you like super easy to make soup recipes, here are some others that I know you'll love, too.

  • Sausage Tortellini Soup
  • Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
  • Chicken Tortilla Soup

Easy Lasagna Soup Ingredients

  • Lasagna Sheets or Campanelli
  • Ground Beef
  • Olive Oil
  • Ground Italian Sausage
  • Tomato Sauce
  • Beef Broth
  • Diced Tomatoes not drained
  • Heavy Cream
  • Ricotta Cheese
  • Mozzarella Cheese, hand shredded
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning, Oregano, Fresh Basil, shredded (optional)

Instructions

First, in a large pot, brown the ground beef and sausage in a little oil and drain the fat.

Then season the meat with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

Next add the tomato sauce.

tomato sauce added to browned meat

Now add the beef and chicken broth.

Then add the can of diced tomatoes (with the juice).

diced tomatos

After that, break up the lasagna sheets and add them to the soup. Stir everything together and turn the heat to medium high.

Now add the heavy cream, parmesan cheese and season the sauce with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and garlic powder.

Let the pasta cook in the sauce and in the meantime, make the ricotta mixture by combining the ricotta, mozzarella and oregano.

Then place a couple large dollops of the ricotta in the soup. Be sure to save some for toppings later once it’s served.

Finally stir everything together and once the Lasagna noodles are finished cooking it’s ready! Don’t forget to taste and reseason if you need to.

Serve this easy lasagna soup in a big bowl with some shredded basil (optional) and a scoop of the ricotta cheese mixture on top. Enjoy!

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Easy Lasagna Soup

Easy lasagna soup combines all the delicious flavors of classic Italian lasagna with the comfort of soup for a dinner the the whole family will love.
No ratings yet
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 6-8 Lasagna Sheets or 1 pound of Campanelle Pasta
  • 1 tbs Olive Oil
  • 1 pound Ground Beef
  • ½ pound Ground Italian Sausage
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbs Italian Seasoning
  • 1 32 oz jarred Tomato Sauce or 4 cups Homemade Sauce
  • 4 cups Beef Broth
  • 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes (with the juice)
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
  • ½ cup Mozzarella Cheese, hand shredded
  • 1 tbs Oregano
  • Fresh Basil (shredded)

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium high heat and brown the sausage and ground beef. Drain the fat and season it with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
  • Add the tomato sauce, beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir it all together until it's evenly combined and bring it to a gentle boil.
  • Break up the lasagna sheet and add them to the soup (or add the pound of pasta if using that instead of the lasagna sheets.)
  • Add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
  • In a medium size bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese and oregano. Add two big scoop fulls to the soup but be sure to reserve some for later.
  • Once the lasagna noodles are done cooking (should take about 8-10 minutes) reseason the soup if needed and place it in a serving bowl.
  • Add a little scoop of the ricotta mixture and garnish with shredded basil (optional). Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword lasagna soup
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Welcome!

Welcome to Al Dente Diva! I'm Tara Ippolito, and I create approachable recipes that anyone can make at home. I focus on real ingredients, clear instructions, and flavors that people genuinely want to eat. If you're looking for dependable meals you can easily throw together, you're in the right place.

More about me

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