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STOVETOP MACARONI AND CHEESE

by 8 Comments

This delicious and easy to make stovetop macaroni and cheese is done in just under 20 minutes and will become an instant family favorite.

Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This stovetop macaroni and cheese recipe is a staple in my house.

My family loves Mac and Cheese and requests if often. Sometimes I just don’t have the time to make my usual baked version.

Here’s where this stovetop recipe comes in handy. It only takes 20 minutes to make and is so incredibly easy.

I can throw this together in no time at all and my kids absolutely love it.

But seriously, who wouldn’t like pasta covered in a creamy cheese sauce?

In the colder months, I usually serve this as a main course. Then when the warmer weather starts to roll in, I like to serve it as a side.

There’s nothing better than a nice, big juicy cheeseburger or hot dog with some macaroni and cheese on the side.

This recipe is always a huge hit and I hope that you give it a try.

If you do, I know that you’ll love it just as much and 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. 

Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese Variations

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

  • Pasta- use any kind of tube like pasta instead of macaroni that you’d like.
  • Cheese- any cheese or blend of cheeses would work for this recipe. Just be sure to shred the cheese yourself because it will melt much better that way.

Other Easy Pasta Recipes

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

Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese Ingredients

  • Elbow macaroni
  • Butter
  • Flour
  • Milk
  • Cheddar cheese, hand shredded
  • Salt, pepper and garlic powder

Instructions

First, boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. (The cooking time for that will be right on the back of the package.

While that’s cooking, melt the butter in a large pot and slowly whisk in the flour.

Now, let that cook for a couple of minutes and slowly whisk in the milk until everything is nice and smooth.

Then, let the milk simmer for about 5 minutes and season it with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Next, stir in the shredded cheese (add about half a cup of cheese at a time) until it’s melted smoothly into the sauce.

Then, gently stir in the al dente macaroni.

Now, let the pasta sit for about 5 minutes to absorb some of the sauce and thicken up.

Finally, give everything a nice big stir, serve warm and enjoy!

Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

This delicious and easy to make stovetop macaroni and cheese is done in just under 20 minutes and will become an instant family favorite.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Macaroni Pasta
  • 1 stick Butter
  • ⅓ cup Flour
  • 4 cups Milk
  • 4 cups Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder

Instructions
 

  • First, boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. (The cooking time for that will be right on the back of the package.
  • While that’s cooking, melt the butter in a large pot and slowly add in the flour. Whisk the butter and flour together for a couple of minutes.
  • Now, slowly whisk in the milk until everything is nice and smooth. Let the milk simmer for about 5 minutes and season it with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Keep in mind that the cheese can be salty.
  • Next, stir in the shredded cheese (add about half a cup of cheese at a time) until it’s melted smoothly into the sauce.
  • Then, gently stir in the al dente macaroni and let the pasta sit for about 5 minutes to absorb some of the sauce and thicken up.
  • Finally, give everything a nice big stir, serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword creamy macaroni and cheese, stovetop macaroni and cheese

NUTTER BUTTER ICE BOX CAKE

by 16 Comments


This easy Nutter Butter Icebox Cake is layered with milk-soaked cookies, a creamy peanut butter pudding filling, fluffy Cool Whip, and Reese's Pieces for the ultimate no-bake dessert.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

nutter butter ice box cake cover


If you're looking for an easy dessert that tastes like you spent hours making it, this Nutter Butter Icebox Cake is exactly what you need. Layers of soft, milk dunked Nutter Butter cookies are stacked with a rich peanut butter pudding filling and finished with fluffy Cool Whip for one seriously irresistible dessert.

The best part? There's no baking involved! As the cake chills, the cookies soften into a cake like texture, creating the perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays, potlucks, birthdays, BBQs, or anytime you're craving something sweet. If you're a peanut butter lover, this recipe is about to become one of your favorites.

Why You'll Love It

  • No Oven Required- Perfect for hot summer days when you don't want to bake.
  • Loaded With Peanut butter Flavor- Between the Nutter Butters, creamy peanut butter, and Reese's Pieces, every bite is packed with peanut butter goodness.
  • Perfect Make Ahead Dessert- It actually tastes even better after spending several hours in the refrigerator.
  • Simple Ingredients- Everything can be found at your local grocery store.

Ingredients


Here's everything you'll need to make this delicious recipe. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements on the recipe card below.

  • Nutter Butter Cookies - These become perfectly soft after soaking in milk and chilling.
  • Whole Milk - Used to prepare the pudding and soften the cookies.
  • Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix - Creates a thick, creamy filling.
  • Creamy Peanut Butter - Adds rich peanut butter flavor throughout the dessert.
  • Cool Whip - Makes the filling light and fluffy while creating the final topping.
  • Reese's Pieces - Adds a fun crunch and the perfect finishing touch.

How To Make It

Here's everything you'll need to make this amazing dessert. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.

  1. Using a hand mixer, combine the instant vanilla pudding and some of the milk together in a large bowl. Let that sit to firm up for about five minutes then stir in the peanut butter and half of the cool whip until everything is evenly combined.
vanilla pudding and milk mixed together in a bowl
  1. Add the remainder of the milk into a cup and dunk each Nutter Butter cookie into it for just a couple of seconds. Place the dunked cookies, side by side, into the bottom of an 8”x 8” serving dish. Add half of the peanut butter mixture onto the cookies and carefully spread it out over the top.
nutter butter cookies dunked in milk and topped with peanut butter pudding
  1. Add another layer of milk dunked cookies to the top of the peanut butter mixture. Add the rest of the peanut butter mixture and carefully spread it out over the layer of cookies. Add a final layer of milk dunked Nutter Butter cookies to the top of the peanut butter mixture.
nutter butter cookies placed on top of peanut butter pudding layer
  1. Add the remaining Cool Whip and spread that out evenly on top of the cookies. Sprinkle the top with Reese’s Pieces and place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours.
finished nutter butter ice box cake

Pro Tips

  • Only dip the cookies briefly so they don't become soggy.
  • Chill overnight if possible. The cookies soften into a cake-like texture.
  • Use a small offset spatula to easily spread the layers evenly.
  • Freeze the dessert for 20-30 minutes before slicing if you want extra clean cuts.
  • Add extra Reese's Pieces just before serving for the best crunch.

Variations

  • Chocolate Lovers- Add mini chocolate chips between the layers.
  • Peanut Butter Cups- Layer chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups throughout the dessert.
  • Chocolate Drizzle- Finish with melted peanut butter and chocolate drizzled over the top.
  • Extra Crunch- Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the Reese's Pieces.
  • Chocolate Pudding- Swap the vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding for a richer dessert.

What To Serve With It


This rich dessert pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, a cold glass of milk, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It's an excellent addition to holiday dessert tables, birthday parties, summer cookouts, and family gatherings because it can be made ahead of time.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

This dessert is actually better on day two because the cookies continue to soften.

You can also freeze individual slices for up to one month. Let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

More Easy No-Bake Desserts

We always save room for dessert around here! If you love easy desserts that don’t require turning on the oven, try my No Bake Banana Split Cake, Chocolate Eclair Cake, and Lemon and Blueberry Ice Box Cake next.

ALL MY BEST DESSERT RECIPES

Nutter Butter Ice Box Cake Recipe

This easy Nutter Butter Icebox Cake is layered with milk-soaked cookies, a creamy peanut butter pudding filling, fluffy Cool Whip, and Reese's Pieces for the ultimate no-bake dessert.
5 from 3 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Boxes Nutter Butter Cookies
  • 1 ¾ Cups Milk
  • 3.4 Ounces Vanilla Instant Pudding
  • ½ Cup Smooth Peanut Butter
  • 8 Ounce Cool Whip
  • ½ Cup Reese's Pieces

Instructions
 

  • Using a hand mixer, combine the instant vanilla pudding and 1¼ cups of the milk together in a large bowl. Let that sit and firm up for about five minutes then stir in the peanut butter and half of the cool whip until everything is evenly combined.
  • Add the remainder of the milk into a cup and dunk each Nutter Butter cookie into it for just a couple of seconds. Place the dunked cookies, side by side, into the bottom of an 8”x 8” serving dish.
  • Add half of the peanut butter mixture onto the cookies and carefully spread it out over the top. Add another layer of milk dunked cookies to the top of the peanut butter mixture.
  • Add the rest of the peanut butter mixture and carefully spread it out over the layer of cookies. Add a final layer of milk dunked Nutter Butter cookies to the top of the peanut butter mixture.
  • Add the remaining Cool Whip and spread that out evenly on top of the cookies. Sprinkle the top with Reese’s Pieces and place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours. Serve cold and enjoy!

Video

Keyword nutter butter cake, nutter butter ice box cake

Other Easy Peanut Butter Desserts

If you like super easy to make peanut butter dessert recipes like this one, you have to try this Peanut Butter & Jelly Poke Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie & Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Brownies.

CHEESY TACO CUPS

by Leave a Comment

These cheesy taco cups are made by baking premade biscuit dough in a muffin tin topped with taco seasoned ground beef and cheese for a delicious grab and go snack, lunch or dinner.

Cheesy Taco Cups

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These cheesy taco cups are so adorable and couldn’t be easier to make. Muffin tins just make everything look so cute.

Grab and go recipes like this are my favorite. My kids usually ask for these as an after school snack or lunch but I’ve made them for many occasions.

Everyone loves tacos and these are great because they’re customizable to suit everyones tastes.

Just leave a variety of toppings out so guests can choose their own and it’s a perfect choice to serve for parties.

Aside from making these for family get togethers and celebrations, they also make a wonderful game day snack, too.

I’ve even served these for dinner with some rice and a nice big salad on the side. They're always a huge hit.

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.

Cheesy taco cups variations

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

  • Biscuits- instead of biscuits, crescent rolls or wonton wrappers are a good swap out.
  • Beef- ground turkey or chicken would work instead of ground beef if you’d prefer.
  • Spice- add some heat to this dish by using a hot and spicy taco seasoning packet, choosing pepper jack cheese and topping with diced jalapeño’s.
  • Toppings- use any kind of toppings you’d like here. Salsa, guacamole, sliced olives, jalapeños or whatever your preferences are.

Other easy Tex Mex recipes

If you like easy to make Tex Mex recipes like this one, here are some other that I know you’ll love, too.

Cheese taco cups ingredients

  • Ground Beef
  • Taco Seasoning
  • Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Canned Biscuits
  • Toppings- shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes & sour cream (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°

First, open the can of biscuits and separate them.

Now take each biscuit and using your fingers, carefully separate each one into two horizontally.

Then spray the holes of a muffin tin with cooking spray and place one half of the biscuit into each one.

Next, using your fingers, push the biscuits down into the holes and up against the sides.

Now, in a medium sized skillet, cook the ground beef and season it according to the directions on the back of the taco seasoning packet.

Then, turn the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted into the taco seasoned ground beef.

Next, spoon the filling into each of the uncooked biscuit cups.

Now, place the muffin tin into the oven until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked all the way through.

Then, let them cool slightly and carefully remove the taco cups using a butter knife to help pull them out if needed.

Finally, top each one with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cheesy Taco Cups

These cheesy taco cups are made by baking premade biscuit dough in a muffin tin topped with taco seasoned ground beef and cheese for a delicious grab and go snack, lunch or dinner.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ground Beef
  • 1 package Canned Biscuits
  • 1 ounce Taco Seasoning Packet
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Toppings- Sour cream, diced tomatoes & shredded lettuce

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°
  • First, open the can of biscuits and separate them. Take each biscuit and using your fingers, carefully separate each one, horizontally, into two.
  • Then spray the holes of a muffin tin with cooking spray and place one half of the biscuit into each one. Using your fingers, push the biscuits down into the holes and up against the sides.
  • Now, in a medium sized skillet, cook the ground beef and season it according to the directions on the back of the taco seasoning packet.
  • Then, turn the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted into the taco seasoned ground beef.
  • Next, spoon the filling into each of the uncooked biscuit cups.
  • Now, place the muffin tin into the oven for about 15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked all the way through.
  • Then, let them cool slightly and carefully remove the taco cups using a butter knife to help pull them out if needed.
  • Finally, top each one with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword Cheesy taco cups, taco cups

CRISPY SMASHED POTATO SALAD

by 2 Comments

Crispy smashed potato salad brings a fresh new spin to traditional potato salad by using seasoned potatoes baked until golden brown and crispy and tossed in a creamy dressing.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Crispy smashed potato salad is exactly what you need to be making this summer. It’s an incredible spin on traditional potato salad that’s sure to be an instant hit with friends and family. I recently started making this for BBQ’s and get togethers and received so many compliments and requests for the recipe. Everyone just absolutely loved it. Even the picky kids!

The crispy potatoes add so much flavor and texture to the dish that’s it’s hard not to love. Those little crispy bits of potatoes are my favorite part of the whole recipe. It’s the perfect side to pretty much anything you’d serve in the warmer weather months from picnics to barbecues or even causal family dinners at home.

Ingredients

Heres everything you'll need to make this delicious potato salad. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.

  • Baby Yellow Potatoes- The star of the show! Adds just the right amount of crunch while making the potato salad filling and satisfying.
  • Olive Oil- Helps the potatoes crisp and get golden brown.
  • Mayonnaise- The perfect creamy base for the dressing.
  • Sour Cream- Adds creaminess with out heaviness.
  • Dijon Mustard- Brings a subtle tang.
  • Lemon Juice- Adds a hint of flavor and acidity to cut the dressing.
  • Fresh Dill-Brings a bright freshness.
  • Fresh Scallions- Compliments the potatoes perfectly.
  • Fresh Parsley- Adds a nice pop of color.
  • Salt And Pepper- Enhances all the other ingredients.
  • Garlic Powder- Adds a delicious earthy flavor throughout.

How To Make It

Heres how to make this delicious side dish. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.

Preheat the oven to 425°

First, boil the potatoes in salted water for 7-10 minutes or until fork tender. Drain them well and add them to a parchment paper lined baking sheet that’s been drizzled in 2 tbs of olive oil. Place a small piece of parchment paper on top of each potato and gently press down with a flat bottom glass just until the potatoes are smashed down.

PRO TIP: Be sure to drain the potatoes very well. Water and moisture are the enemy of crispiness.

smashed potatoes on baking sheet

Now, drizzle the remaining olive oil on top and generously season them with salt, pepper and half of the garlic powder. Place them into the center rack of the oven for 40 minutes or until the potatoes are brown and crispy. Set them aside, let them cool for 5 minutes then give them a rough chop.

PRO TIP: Be generous with the olive oil and add more if you think it needs it. This will help them get that incredibly crispy texture.

crispy smashed potatoes being rough chopped

Then, in a large bowl, add the mayonnaise, dijon mustard, sour cream, lemon juice, dill, parsley and chives. Season with salt, pepper and the rest of the garlic powder. Stir to combine.

Finally, add in most of the potatoes and toss them into the dressing. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the potatoes onto the top, serve and enjoy!

NOTE: This can definitely be served slightly warm if you'd like but its great cold, too.

finished crispy smashed potato salad

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make this ahead of time. Smash and rough chop the potatoes and make the dressing but keep them refrigerated and separate until you're ready to serve. This way, the potatoes will still stay nice and crispy.

Can I Make This In The Air Fryer?

Yes, you can make these potatoes in the air fryer. Pop the potatoes in the air fryer at 425 degrees for about 10-15 minutes. Flip them half way during cooking for extra crispiness. Then just follow the instructions as directed

What Should I Serve This With?

Potato salad can go with just about anything but I love to serve this in the summer time next to grilled hot dogs, burgers or chicken. It also goes great with sandwiches.

Storage

Place the potato salad in a food safe air tight container and it will last in the refrigerator for up to three days.

smashed potato salad cover

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe

Crispy smashed potato salad brings a fresh new spin to traditional potato salad by using seasoned potatoes baked until golden brown and crispy and tossed in a delicious creamy dressing
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 day 4 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 Pounds Baby yellow potatoes (cleaned)
  • 4 Tbs Olive Oil
  • ¾ Cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 Tbs Dijon Mustard
  • ¾ Cup Sour Cream
  • 1 Medium Lemon Juice
  • ¼ Cup Fresh Dill, chopped
  • ¼ Cup Fresh Scallions, chopped
  • ¼ Cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 Tbs Garlic Powder (divided)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°
  • Boil the potatoes in salted water for 7-10 minutes or until fork tender. Drain them well and add them to a parchment paper lined baking sheet that’s been drizzled in 2 tbs of olive oil. Place a small piece of parchment paper on top of each potato and gently press down with a flat bottom glass just until the potatoes are smashed down.
  • Drizzle the remaining olive oil on top and generously season them with salt, pepper and half of the garlic powder. Place them into the center rack of the oven for 40 minutes or until the potatoes are brown and crispy. Set them aside, let them cool for 5 minutes then give them a rough chop.
  • In a large bowl, add the mayonnaise, dijon mustard, sour cream, lemon juice, dill, parsley and chives. Season with salt, pepper and the rest of the garlic powder. Stir to combine.
  • Add in most of the potatoes and toss them into the dressing. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the potatoes onto the top, serve and enjoy!

Video

Keyword Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Other Easy Summer Side Dishes

If you like super easy to make summer side dish recipes like this one, you have to try this Italian Combo Pasta Salad, Hawaiian Macaroni And Cheese and Bacon And Peas Pasta Salad.

PASTA PRIMAVERA

by Leave a Comment

Pasta primavera is a classic pasta dish made with a variety of colorful vegetables cooked in a flavorful creamy garlic sauce.

Pasta Primavera

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Pasta primavera is such a perfect choice for a spring or summer time dinner.

With all of the colorful vegetables in this dish, it looks absolutely beautiful without being too heavy.

The best part of this recipe is that you can pretty much add whatever kinds of vegetables that you’d like.

What a great opportunity to clean out the fridge or use all those fresh vegetables from the garden.

As much as I love to use seasonal vegetables in this dish, it’s delicious all year round, too.

Feel free to add a protein like cooked chicken or shrimp and serve it as a main course or as a side dish to any meal that you can think of.

It’s super versatile so make it your own.

I personally love this recipe because it’s a great way to get my kids to eat more vegetables.

They love the creamy garlic sauce that the pasta is tossed in and those beautiful vegetables take on all of that flavor, too.

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.

Pasta Primavera Variations

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

  • Pasta- use and kind of pasta that you’d like. It all works.
  • Vegetables- feel free to ad in whatever vegetables are your favorite. The more the merrier here.
  • Protein- cooked chicken, shrimp and salmon would all be great additions to this recipe.
  • Spice- add a dash or two of hot pepper flakes when the vegetables are sautéing to add a little heat.

Other easy pasta recipes

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

Pasta Primavera Ingredients

  • Pasta
  • Olive oil
  • Zucchini, sliced into rounds and halved
  • Red onion, sliced
  • Orange bell pepper, sliced
  • Broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
  • Yellow squash, sliced into rounds and halved
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh garlic, chopped
  • Butter
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and garlic bread
  • Parsley and Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions

First, in a large skillet, heat the oil and butter and add all the vegetables and chopped garlic.

Then, season the vegetables with salt and pepper and sauté them over medium high heat, stirring frequently, until they are soft.

Now, add the chicken broth and heavy cream.

Next, season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.

Then add in the cooked pasta and toss everything together until it is evenly coated in the sauce.

Finally, transfer the pasta to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (optional). Serve warm and enjoy!

Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera is a classic pasta dish made with a variety of colorful vegetables cooked in a flavorful creamy garlic sauce.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Pasta
  • ¼ cup Olive Oil
  • ½ stick Butter
  • 1 large Zucchini, sliced into rounds and halved
  • 1 medium Red onion, sliced
  • ½ pound Asparagus, cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 1 large Orange bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cups Broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
  • 1 large Yellow squash, sliced into rounds and halved
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
  • 4 cloves Fresh Garlic, chopped
  • 1 cup Chicken or vegetable
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 tbs Garlic Powder
  • 2 tbs Italian Seasoning

Instructions
 

  • First, in a large skillet, heat the oil and butter and add all the chopped vegetables and fresh garlic.
  • Then, season the vegetables with salt and pepper and sauté them over medium high heat, stirring frequently, until they are soft. This should take about 5-10 minutes.
  • Now, add the chicken broth and heavy cream. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
  • Then add in the cooked pasta and toss everything together until it is evenly coated in the sauce. Reseason if needed.
  • Finally, transfer the pasta to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (optional). Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword pasta primavera

SHEET PAN SHRIMP BOIL

by Leave a Comment

Sheet pan shrimp boil is an easy version of the Southern Classic made by cooking shrimp, sausage, potatoes and corn in a flavorful buttery sauce.

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This sheet pan shrimp boil is such a fun and easy dinner idea.

It’s a spin on a southern specialty that you can enjoy from anywhere.

This is perfect to throw together as an easy busy weekday dinner for the family. Especially in the warm summer months when fresh corn on the cob is in season.

I like to serve this right on the baking sheet that it’s cooked on with a few serving spoons along the sides.

That way, everyone can kind of just pick whatever things they want to eat and serve themselves.

In my opinion, serving it this way brings a little fun and excitement to our regular dinner routine.

Not to mention it’s loaded with flavor and absolutely delicious!

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.

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil Variations

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

  • Potatoes- any kind of baby potatoes will work for this recipe.
  • Shrimp- frozen shrimp are ok to use in this recipe if you’d prefer. Just be sure to thaw them and pat them dry before using them.
  • Seasoning- feel free to add some Cajun seasoning or any additional seasonings that you’d like to this recipe.
  • Add Ins- It’s ok to add extra vegetables if you’d like. It all works so use your favorite.

Other Easy Seafood Recipes

If like easy to make seafood recipes like this one, here are some other recipes that I know you’ll love, too.

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil Ingredients

  • Large shrimp with tails on- cleaned and deveined
  • Smoked sausage, cut into ¼ inch thick slices
  • Baby yellow potatoes- cleaned and cut in half
  • Garlic cloves, chopped
  • Lemon juice
  • Corn on the cob- cut into 3 pieces
  • Butter- melted
  • Oil
  • Old bay, salt, pepper & garlic powder
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°

First, boil the potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes.

Then, add the corn into the pot with the potatoes and continue to boil for another 5 minutes.

Now, drain the corn and potatoes from the water and place them in a large bowl.

Next, add some oil, melted butter, Old Bay, salt, pepper and garlic powder and give everything a nice mix until the potatoes and corn are evenly coated. Spread them over a large parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Now, to the same bowl that the potatoes and corn were in, add the shrimp, sausage, parsley, fresh garlic and lemon juice.

Next, add more melted butter, oil, Old Bay, salt, pepper and garlic powder and mix everything together until it’s evenly coated.

Then, add the shrimp and sausage to the baking sheet, too.

Now, gently mix everything together onto the baking sheet so that it’s in an even layer. Overlapping is fine and absolutely expected so it’s doesn’t have to be in a single layer.

Next, place the baking sheet into the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked all the way through.

Finally, serve warm and enjoy!

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

Sheet pan shrimp boil is an easy version of the Southern Classic made by cooking shrimp, sausage, potatoes and corn in a flavorful buttery sauce.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounce Smoked Sausage, cut into ¼th-½ inch rounds
  • 1 pound Shrimp, cleaned and deveined
  • 1 pound Baby Potatoes, cut in half
  • 3 Ears Corn on the Cob- cut into 3 pieces each
  • 1 stick Butter, melted
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • 4 cloves Garlic, chopped
  • 1 large Lemon, Juiced
  • ¼ cup Old Bay Seasoning, divided
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 tbs Garlic powder, divided
  • Olive oIl (divided)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°
  • First, boil the potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes. Add the corn into the pot with the potatoes and continue to boil for another 5 minutes.
  • Now, drain the corn and potatoes from the water and place them in a large bowl.
  • Next, add half of the melted butter, half of the Old Bay, and half of the salt, pepper and garlic powder and give everything a nice mix until the potatoes and corn are evenly coated. Spread them over a large parchment paper lined baking sheet.
  • Now, to the same bowl that the potatoes and corn were in, add the shrimp, sausage, parsley, fresh garlic and lemon juice.
  • Next, add the rest of the melted butter, oil, Old Bay, salt, pepper and garlic powder and mix everything together until it’s evenly coated and add it to the baking sheet with the corn and potatoes.
  • Now, gently mix everything together onto the baking sheet so that it’s in an even layer. Overlapping is fine and absolutely expected so it’s doesn’t have to be in a single layer.
  • Next, place the baking sheet into the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked all the way through.
  • Finally, serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword sheet pan shrimp boil

MAID RITE SLIDERS

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These maid rite sliders are a Midwest specialty made with seasoned ground beef with a touch of sweetness, American cheese, pickles and Hawaiian rolls.

Maid Rite Sliders

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These maid rite sliders are a secret recipe that the Midwest has been keeping from the rest of us apparently!

This was a recipe that I’ve never hear about before I made them for myself.

I was lucky enough to get this recipe from a friend who told me that I had to try them and I’m so happy that I did!

They are so incredibly delicious and were a huge hit in my house. Especially with my kids.

The ground beef and Hawaiian rolls get such a nice, sweet flavor from the brown sugar giving it a truly unique taste.

I just couldn’t love these incredible sliders more and I’m so happy to share this recipe with you.

These would be perfect for a busy weekday dinner, lunch, snack or served to a crown for a game day watch party

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I’m sure 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.

Maid Rite Slider Variations

This is a copycat recipe so deviations from the original recipe are going to give you a different result. But, here are some ways to switch it up if you’d like to.

  • Beef- you can swap the ground beef out for ground chicken or turkey.
  • Rolls- any kid of rolls would work here if you’d prefer to use something else.
  • Cheese- choose whatever kind of cheese you’d like.
  • Seasoning- add some hot pepper flakes or Tabasco to add some heat to this dish. Also, feel free to add whatever additional seasonings that you’d like, too.

Other Kings Hawaiian Roll Recipes

If you like easy to make recipes using Kings Hawaiian rolls, here are some others that I know you’ll love, too.

Maid Rite Slider Ingredients

  • Ground beef
  • Minced onion
  • American cheese
  • Water
  • Beef bullion
  • White vinegar
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Dill Pickle Chips
  • Kings Hawaiian Rolls
  • Butter
  • Brown Sugar
  • Dijon Mustard

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, cook the ground beef and minced onion together in a large skillet. Break the beef down into small pieces while it’s browning.

Then drain the fat and add the bullion, water, brown sugar, vinegar and Worcestershire sauce.

Now simmer that together over low heat until the liquid has cooked out.

Next, cut the Hawaiian rolls horizontally down the middle and evenly spread the ground beef mixture out over the top of the bottom half.

Now cover the ground beef with American cheese slices and a pickle. Try to position the pickle slices in the center of each burger bun.

Then mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard.

Next, put the top half of the Hawaiian rolls back on top and spread the butter mixture on top.

Finally, bake it covered for about 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve warm and enjoy!

The tops may look super brown but I promise you they’re not burnt. I left them in for a couple minutes over the time I was supposed to and between the brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce, they became a deep brown color.

Maid Rite Sliders

These maid rite sliders are a Midwest specialty made with seasoned ground beef with a touch of sweetness, American cheese, pickles and Hawaiian rolls.
No ratings yet
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Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ground Beef
  • 1 small Onion, minced
  • 6 slices American Cheese
  • ⅓ Water
  • 1 tbs Beef Bullion
  • 2 tbs Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbs Brown Sugar
  • 1 tbs White Vinegar
  • 9 Dill Pickle Chips
  • 1 package Kings Hawaiian Rolls

Toppings

  • ¼ cup Butter, melted
  • 1 tbs Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar
  • 1 tbs Dijon Mustard

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • First, cook the ground beef and minced onion together in a large skillet. Break the beef down into small pieces while it’s browning.
  • Then drain the fat and add the beef bullion, water, brown sugar, vinegar and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Now simmer that together over low heat until the liquid has cooked out.
  • Next, cut the Hawaiian rolls horizontally down the middle and evenly spread the ground beef mixture out over the top of the bottom half.
  • Now cover the ground beef with American cheese slices and a pickle chip. Try to position the pickle slices in the center of each burger bun.
  • Then mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard.
  • Next, put the top half of the Hawaiian rolls back on top and spread the butter mixture on top.
  • Finally, bake it covered for about 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword big mac sliders, maid rite sliders

MINI CHEESY GARLIC MONKEY BREAD

by 3 Comments

This mini cheesy garlic monkey bread is a fun way to enjoy a traditional classic using premade biscuit dough covered in garlic butter and cheese then baked in a muffin tin until golden brown.

Mini Cheesy Garlic Monkey Bread

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

How cute is this mini cheesy garlic monkey bread?

My family had so much fun eating this. Especially my kids.

They love being allowed to “play with their food” and eat with their hands.

I think it’s safe to say that we pretty much all love garlic bread in any form.

It’s a huge hit and classic for a reason.

This is especially great though because it’s served in these awesome individual, pull apart portions.

Every bite is loaded in garlic buttery cheesy goodness.

This recipe would make a great after school snack or appetizer to any meal. It’s also great for game day or for serving a crowd.

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.

Mini Cheesy Garlic Bread Variations

I like this recipe as it is, but here are some ways to switch it up if you’d like to.

  • Cheese- shredded mozzarella cheese works wonderful for this recipes if you’d prefer that over cubed mozzarella.
  • Bread- frozen (and thawed) dinner roll dough would work here instead of biscuit dough.
  • Bigger Portions- If you’re not into this style of the mini portions, this can be made in a bundt cake pan or regular bread pan, too. Just be sure to spray them with cooking spray and adjust the cooking times.

Other Easy Recipes Using Prepared Dough

If you like easy to make recipes like this one using prepared dough, here are some others that I know you’ll love, too.

Mini Cheesy Garlic Bread Ingredients

  • Canned Biscuits
  • Melted Butter
  • Cooking Spray
  • Fresh Garlic, grated
  • Mozzarella String Cheese or Grated Mozzarella Cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Parmesan Cheese
  • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°

First, cut each biscuit into about 8 little squares.

Now, add them to a large bowl.

Then, add the melted butter, grated garlic, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and mozzarella cheese.

Next, mix everything together until it’s nice and evenly combined.

Now, spray a muffin tin with cooking spray.

Then, roll the biscuit mixture into small balls (about 6-8 cubes of biscuits each) and add them to the center of each muffin tin.

Next, bake them in the oven for about 10-13 minutes or until the biscuit dough is cooked all the way through.

Finally, sprinkle the tops with parmesan cheese, let them cool slightly and carefully remove them with a butter knife. Serve warm and enjoy!

Mini Cheesy Garlic Monkey Bread

This mini cheesy garlic monkey bread is a fun way to enjoy a traditional classic using premade biscuit dough covered in garlic butter and cheese then baked in a muffin tin until golden brown.
No ratings yet
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Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can Refrigerated Biscuits
  • ¼ cup Butter, melted
  • 2 tbs Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • 3-4 cloves Fresh Garlic, grated
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded or 4-5 cubed cheese sticks
  • 1 tbs Italian Seasoning
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°
  • First, cut each biscuit into about 8 little squares and add them to a large bowl.
  • Then, add the melted butter, grated garlic, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and mozzarella cheese.
  • Next, mix everything together until it’s nice and evenly combined.
  • Now, spray a muffin tin with cooking spray. Then, roll the biscuit mixture into small balls (about 6-8 cubes of biscuits each) and add them to the center of each muffin tin.
  • Next, bake them in the oven for about 10-13 minutes or until the biscuit dough is cooked all the way through.
  • Finally, sprinkle the tops with parmesan cheese, let them cool slightly and carefully remove them with a butter knife. Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword cheesy garlic monkey bread, garlic monkey bread, mini cheesy garlic money bread

FRENCH ONION MEATBALLS

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These delicious French onion meatballs are made with French onion seasoned ground beef simmered in a flavorful sauce and covered in gooey cheese.

French Onion Meatballs

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These French onion meatballs became an instant family favorite in my house the very first time that I made them.

My family went absolutely crazy for them, and I gotta say that I can’t blame them one bit.

These are so delicious and loaded with incredible French onion flavor. The melted cheese topping just completely takes them to the next level.

Meatballs in general are always a big hit around here. This was the perfect recipe to put a fresh new spin on an old favorite.

You can serve this over pasta or rice, but I actually like to eat it with a nice big piece of Italian bread to dunk into the sauce.

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.

French Onion Meatballs Variations

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

  • Beef - Ground beef tastes best here in my opinion, but ground chicken or turkey would work too.
  • Serving - Serve these meatballs alone, over pasta, egg noodles, or white rice.
  • Cheese - I used Swiss cheese here because it’s more accessible and a little more affordable, but Gruyère would be a wonderful swap. Mozzarella would even work here, too, if you’d prefer to use that.

Other Easy Meatball Recipes

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

French Onion Meatballs Ingredients

  • Ground Beef
  • Lipton Dry French Onion Packet
  • Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs
  • Egg
  • Milk
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Swiss Cheese
  • Onions, sliced
  • Butter
  • Beef broth
  • Flour
  • Salt, pepper and garlic powder
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, combine the ground beef, onion soup packet, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large bowl.

Now, form them into small to medium, equal-sized meatballs and place them onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

Next, bake them in the oven for 30 minutes.

In the meantime, heat the oil in a large pan and add the sliced onions. Cook them until they begin to soften.

Now, season them with salt and pepper and stir in the butter.

Next, once the butter is melted stir in the flour and let that cook for about 3 minutes.

Then, add the beef broth, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme, and bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Once the meatballs are done, carefully add them to the onions and beef broth.

Now, cover them in shredded Swiss cheese and sprinkle the top with fresh parsley.

Next, put a lid on and let the cheese melt. This shouldn't take more than a few minutes.

Finally, serve warm over rice, pasta or egg noodles. Enjoy!

French Onion Meatballs

These delicious French onion meatballs are made with French onion seasoned ground beef simmered in a flavorful sauce and covered in gooey cheese.
No ratings yet
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Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, French, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ground Beef
  • 1 ounce Liption Onion Soup Packet (dry)
  • 1 cup Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs
  • 1 Egg
  • ½ cup Milk
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese
  • 2 large Onions, sliced
  • 2 cups Beef Broth
  • ¼ c Olive OIl
  • 3 tbs Butter
  • 3 tbs Four
  • 1 cup Swiss Cheese, hand grated
  • 2 tbs Garlic Powder (divided)
  • 1 tbs Thyme
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Fresh Parsley, Chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • First, combine the ground beef, onion soup packet, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper and 1 tbs of garlic powder in a large bowl.
  • Now, form them into small-medium, equal sized meatballs and place them onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for 30 minutes.
  • In the meantime, heat the oil in a large pan and add the sliced onions. Cook them for about 10 minutes or until they begin to soften.
  • Now, season them with salt and pepper and stir in the butter. Once the butter is melted stir in the flour and let that cook for about 3 minutes.
  • Then, add the beef broth and bring everything to a boil. Season the broth with salt, pepper and 1 tbs of garlic powder and thyme. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
  • Once the meatballs are done, carefully add them to the onions and beef broth.
  • Now cover them in shredded Swiss cheese and sprinkle the top with fresh parsley.
  • Next, put a lid on and let the cheese melt. This shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.
  • Finally, serve warm over rice, pasta or egg noodles. Enjoy!
Keyword french onion meatballs

THE BEST CORN ON THE COB

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The best Corn on the cob you'll ever try is made by boiling fresh corn on the cob in a mix of water, milk, butter, sugar and salt to bring out all of its naturally delicious flavors.

The Best Corn On The Cob

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This really is the absolute best corn on the cob recipe that you'll ever try.

I learned how to make this only a few years ago after taking some tips from people on social media.

I’ve never been more happy that I took peoples advice before in my life.

We eat so much corn here in Jersey during the summer. I usually just boil it in water then add some salt and pepper.

Don’t get me wrong, that’s a great way to enjoy it but this way completely takes it to the next level.

The milk and sugar really bring out the sweetness of the corn while still at the same time being a little salty.

I love the sweet and salty flavor combo!

You really don’t need to add anything else once the corn is cooked either. although you certainly can.

A little extra butter and salt can never be a bad idea, right?

The corn absorbs all those delicious flavors that it’s boiled in creating some deeply delicious flavor.

We absolutely love this method for making corn in the summer.

I hope you give this method 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.

The Best Corn On The Cob Variations

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

  • Toppings- Add an extra layer of flavor with additional toppings. More butter and salt are always a nice addition but things like parmesan cheese, hot sauce or fresh herbs are all wonderful, too.
  • Flavors- Whatever flavors you put into the pot of boiling water will be absorbed by the corn. So, feel free to add some extras like fresh lemon juice, herbs and the seasonings of your choice.
  • Sugar- The sugar can be substituted for honey if you prefer.

Other Easy Corn Recipes

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

The Best Corn On The Cobb Ingredients

  • Corn on the cob
  • Water
  • Butter
  • Milk
  • Sugar
  • Salt

Instructions

First, shuck the corn and remove any extra silk. Leave the corn whole or cut in half if you prefer.

Then, bring the water and salt to a rapid boil and turn the heat down to low.

Now, stir in the milk, butter and sugar.

Next, once the butter has melted, add the corn.

Then, cover the pot and let the corn cook for about 5 minutes.

Finally, remove the corn from the pot, serve with additional butter and salt if desired and enjoy!

The Best Corn On The Cob

The best Corn on the cob you'll ever try is made by boiling fresh corn on the cob in a mix of water, milk, butter, sugar and salt to bring out all of its naturally delicious flavors.
No ratings yet
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Course Side Dish
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 6 ears Corn on the cob
  • 6 cups Water
  • ¼ cup Salt
  • 2 cups Milk
  • 1 stick Butter
  • ¼ cup Sugar

Instructions
 

  • First, shuck the corn and remove any extra silk. Leave the corn whole or cut in half if you prefer.
  • Then, bring the water and salt to a rapid boil and turn the heat down to low.
  • Now, stir in the milk, butter and sugar.
  • Next, once the butter has melted, add the corn.
  • Then, cover the pot and let the corn cook for about 5-8 minutes.
  • Finally, remove the corn from the pot, serve with additional butter and salt if desired and enjoy!
Keyword corn on the cob recipe, the best corn on the cob

STREET CORN PASTA SALAD

by 14 Comments

Street corn pasta salad combines all of the delicious flavors you love about street corn and combines them with pasta for a unique summer favorite side dish.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Make this street corn pasta salad if you’re looking for the ultimate crowd pleasing side dish. This recipe couldn’t be more perfect for BBQ’s, picnics or any kind of summer get together. I’ve even made this to take to the pool and beach with my family and friends and it’s always a big hit.

Street corn is something that I started eating a few years ago and completely fell in love with all the unique flavors. Adding those delicious flavors to pasta has been a total game changer! I’m always prepared to give the recipe out to first time eaters because I know they’re going to want to make it form themselves, too. Its a great side dish to serve at your next party.

Ingredients

Here is everything you'll need to make this incredible side dish. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.

  • Corn On The Cob- The star of the show! It adds a sweet and smoky base of flavor.
  • Rotini Pasta- Adds body and holds onto the creamy dressing.
  • Jalapeno- Adds fresh pop of heat.
  • Red Onion- Brings a sharp crunch and contrast.
  • Melted Butter- Adds richness and helps caramelize the corn.
  • Queso Fresco- Brings a salty, creamy finish without being tgoo heavy.
  • Cilantro- A fresh, earthy brightness.
  • Garlic Powder- Adds savory depth.
  • Salt and Pepper- Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • Tajin- Tangy pop of chili and lime.
  • Mayonnaise- The creamy base of the dressing.
  • Sour Cream- Cuts the richness of the mayonnaise.
  • Olive Oil- Brings a smooth richness.
  • Fresh Lime Juice and Zest- Adds a bright, fresh pop of acidity.
  • Chili Powder- Brings a smoky warmth.
  • Cumin- Adds earthy depth.

How To Make It

Heres how to make this delicious pasta salad. You can find the full ingredients list and instructions on the recipe card below.

Preheat the oven to 400°

First, lay the corn down in a baking sheet and brush it with melted butter. Lightly season the corn with salt and pepper and place it in the oven for 45 minutes turning the corn half way through the cooking process. Let the corn cool, remove the kernels from the cob and add it to a large bowl.

PRO TIP: Use a corn on the cob peeler to easily remove the kernels from the cob.

Now, add the pasta, chopped jalapenos, chopped onion, cilantro and queso fresco. Season with salt, pepper and garlic powder and gently toss everything together.

PRO TIP: Chop everything into small pieces to get lots of even flavor in each bite.

Next, in a medium sized bowl, mix together all of the ingredients for the dressing and pour it over the pasta salad. Toss everything together until it’s evenly combined. Finally, sprinkle with tajin, serve and enjoy!

NOTE: The pasta will absorb the dressing if its not served immediately. So, be sure to make a little extra to toss into the pasta salad if you're planning on serving it at a later time.

Do I Have To Use Queso Fresco?

No, you don't have to use queso fresco if you don't want to. Cojita would be a great choice or even shredded cheddar cheese would be ok to use, too.

What Kind Of Corn Should I Use?

Fresh corn on the cob is best for this recipe but canned or frozen corn would work in a pinch, too. Add the frozen corn or drained canned corn to a hot skillet and toast it for a few minutes before adding it to the pasta salad. It will add a lot of delicious flavor.

Storage

Place the pasta salad into a food safe air tight container and it will last in the refrigerator for up to three days. You may need to stir in a little extra dressing if the pasta has absorbed it to prevent it from being too dry.

Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe

Street corn pasta salad combines all of the delicious flavors you love about street corn and combines them with pasta for a unique summer favorite side dish.
5 from 3 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour
Course Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 5 Ears Corn on the cob, husk and silk removed
  • 1 Pound Rotini Pasta, cooked and rinsed under cold water
  • 1 Large Jalapeno, chopped
  • 1 Small Red Onion, chopped
  • ¼ Cup Butter, melted
  • 1 Cup Queso Fresco, broken into small pieces
  • ¼ Cup Cilantro, chopped
  • 1 Tbs Garlic Powder
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Tajin (optional)

DRESSING

  • ½ Cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 Cup Sour Cream
  • ¼ Cup Olive Oil
  • 1 Large Fresh Lime (Juice and Zest)
  • 1 Tbs Chili Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 Tbs Garlic Powder
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°
  • Lay the corn down in a baking sheet and brush it with melted butter. Lightly season the corn with salt and pepper and place it in the oven for 45 minutes turning the corn half way through the cooking process. Let the corn cool, remove it from the cob and add it to a large bowl.
  • Add the pasta, jalapenos, onion, cilantro and queso fresco. Season with salt, pepper and garlic powder and toss everything together.
  • In a separate bowl, mix together all of the ingredients for the dressing and pour it over the pasta salad. Toss everything together until it’s evenly combined. Garnish with tajin (optional), serve and enjoy!

Video

Keyword pasta salad, street corn pasta salad

Other Easy Pasta Salads

If you like super easy to make pasta salads like this one, you have to try Mom's Famous Tortellini Salad, Mexican Macaroni Salad and Bacon And Peas Pasta Salad.

HOT CRAB DIP

by 1 Comment

This Hot Crab Dip is rich, creamy, cheesy, and loaded with sweet lump crab meat, making it the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for holidays, game day, parties, or anytime you need an easy dip everyone will devour.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

hot crab dip cover

If there's one appetizer that disappears faster than anything else at a party, it's this Hot Crab Dip. It's warm, creamy, loaded with cheesy goodness, and packed with tender crab meat in every bite. The hardest part about making it is trying not to eat half the dish before your guests arrive.


I love recipes that look impressive but come together with almost no effort, and this one checks every box. Just mix everything together, bake until bubbly, and serve it with crackers, toasted bread, or tortilla chips. Whether you're hosting Christmas, New Year's, football season, or just having friends over, this dip is always one of the first things to disappear.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Loaded With Real Crab. Every bite is full of sweet, tender lump crab meat.
  • Simple Ingredients. Everything mixes together in one bowl before baking.
  • Perfect For Entertaining. Great for holidays, game day, cookouts, and parties.
  • Make It Ahead. Assemble the dip earlier in the day and simply bake before serving.

Ingredients

Heres everything you'll need to make this delicious crab dip. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.

  • Lump Crab Meat- The star of the recipe. Lump crab meat gives it amazing flavor without falling apart.
  • Mayonnaise- Helps create the perfect consistency and adds flavor.
  • Sour Cream- Adds tanginess while keeping the dip light and smooth.
  • Cream Cheese- Creates a rich, creamy base.
  • Worcestershire Sauce- Adds savory depth and richness.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese- Adds a slightly salty flavor while complimenting the crab beautifully.
  • Garlic- Adds a savory aromatic depth.
  • Scallions- Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
  • Lemon Juice- Brightens the flavors.
  • Sriracha- Contributes a mild kick.
  • Salt & Pepper- Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • Garlic Powder- Adds a subtle garlic flavor without over powering the crab.

How To Make It

Heres how to make this delicious appetizer. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.

Preheat the oven to 400°

1. Add all of the ingredients into a large bowl reserving some shredded cheese and scallions for later. Gently mix everything together. Try to keep the lump crab meat pieces as intact as possible. Add the mixture to a baking dish or small cast iron skillet.

2. Top it with a little more shredded cheese. Place it into the center rack of the oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are hot and bubbly. Garnish with scallions and serve the dip with a nice sturdy cracker. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

  • Gently fold in the crab meat so the large pieces stay intact.
  • Let the cream cheese soften before mixing to avoid lumps.
  • Fresh lump crab meat gives the best flavor, but refrigerated pasteurized crab works great too.
  • For an extra golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
  • Add a little extra mozzarella on top before baking if you love an extra cheesy finish.

Variations

  • Spicy Hot Crab Dip
  • Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce.
  • Bacon Crab Dip
  • Mix in cooked crumbled bacon before baking.
  • Artichoke Crab Dip
  • Stir in chopped artichoke hearts for another layer of flavor.
  • Extra Cheesy
  • Mix in shredded sharp cheddar or
  • Monterey Jack.
  • Seafood Dip
  • Add cooked chopped shrimp or lobster along with the

All Things Crab

I know how much you love my easy crab recipes just like this one! I've rounded up all the delicious crab recipes from my site so you can find them all in one place.

FIND ALL MY CRAB RECIPES HERE

What to Serve With It

This hot crab dip is incredibly versatile. Serve it with buttery crackers, toasted crostini, sliced French bread, pretzel crisps, pita chips, tortilla chips, or crunchy vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers. It also makes an amazing addition to any holiday appetizer spread alongside shrimp cocktail, stuffed mushrooms, spinach dip, or a charcuterie board.

Storage & Reheating


Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through or microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals. I don't recommend freezing it since the creamy ingredients can separate once thawed.

hot crab dip

Hot Crab Dip Recipe

This Hot Crab Dip is rich, creamy, cheesy, and loaded with sweet lump crab meat, making it the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for holidays, game day, parties, or anytime you need an easy dip everyone will devour
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Pound Lump Crab Meat
  • ½ Cup Mayonnaise
  • ¼ Cup Sour Cream
  • 8 Oz Cream Cheese (softened)
  • 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • 2 Tbs Worcestershire Sauce
  • 2 Tbs Lemon Juice
  • 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbs Old Bay Seasoning
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 Tbs Scallions (and some for garnish)
  • Crackers like Wheat Thins or Bagel Chips

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°
  • Add all of the ingredients into a large bowl reserving ¼ of the shredded cheese and some scallions for later. Gently mix everything together. Try to keep the lump crab meat pieces as intact as possible.
  • Add the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast iron skillet and top with the rest of the shredded cheese..
  • Place it into the center rack of the oven for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are hot and bubbly.
  • Garnish with scallions and serve the dip with a nice sturdy cracker. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword crab dip, hot crab dip

Other Easy Crab Recipes

If you like super easy to make crab recipes like this one, you have to try The Best Crab Cakes, Easy Crab Bites & Snow Crab Legs.

PIONEER SWEET CREAM MINI PANCAKES

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Pioneer sweet cream mini pancakes are a great way to serve breakfast to a crowd and are completely customizable, too.

Pioneer Sweet Cream Mini Pancakes

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This post is sponsored by Pioneer. Sponsored posts, like this one, are a part of what allow bloggers like me to maintain and operate sites that are free to the public. I only work with products and brands that I feel proud to promote and have used personally.

These Pioneer Sweet Cream mini pancakes make breakfast so much fun!

Anything made into a mini is exciting especially pancakes.

My kids absolutely loved it when I served these to them. Everybody had a favorite, including me.

I loved the way all the fillings tasted with the unique flavor of the sweat cream pancake mix.

All of them tasted delicious but I’ve always been a fan of anything that has banana in it. My kids were huge fans of the chocolate chip with no surprise to there.

I think they really liked the fact that they could choose their own filings, too.

This is a great meal prep option or for serving a crown during breakfast or brunch.

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. If

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.

Pioneer Sweet Cream Mini Pancakes Variations

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

  • Pancake Mix- Instead of Pioneer Sweet Cream Mix, Pioneer regular pancake mix would work.
  • Add Ins- this breakfast recipe is great because it can be completely customized to fit a crowds preferences. That said, add whatever fruits or favorite pancake flavors that you’d like.
  • Toppings- try syrup, butter or even some whipped cream as some great topping options.

Where to get Pioneer Sweet Cream Baking, Waffle and Pancake Mix

Look for Pioneer Sweet Cream Baking Mix at Walmart stores nationwide or click HERE to purchase for Walmart directly.

You can also find it at Kroger Stores in the state of Texas. Click HERE to purchase the product from Kroger directly.

Other Easy Breakfast Ideas

If you like easy to make breakfast ideas like this one, here are some others that I know you’ll love, too.

Pioneer Sweet Cream Mini Pancake Ingredients

  • Pioneer Sweet Cream Baking, Waffle and Pancake Mix
  • Water
  • Cooking Spray
  • Strawberries, chopped into small pieces
  • Blueberries, chopped into small pieces
  • Bananas, chopped into small pieces
  • Cooked bacon, chopped into small pieces
  • Maple Shyrup
  • Mini Chocolate Chips

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, in a large bowl, make the Pioneer pancake mix by following the directions on the back of the package and combining one package of dry mix with water.

Now, coat a mini muffin tin with cooking spray.

Then, using a cookie scooper or a spoon, fill each of the mini muffin tin holes with the pancake mix.

Now, add the strawberries, blueberries, bananas, syrup, chocolate chips and bacon onto each individual pancake mix cups.

Next, using a toothpick, swirl the fillings into the pancake mix.

Then, place the mini muffin tin into the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the pancakes are cooked all the way through.

Now, let them cool slightly and carefully remove the mini pancakes from the muffin tin with a butter knife.

Finally, serve warm and with syrup. Enjoy!

Pioneer Sweet Cream Mini Pancakes

Pioneer sweet cream mini pancakes are a great way to serve breakfast to a crowd and are completely customizable, too.
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Course Breakfast
Cuisine American

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • First, in a large bowl, make the Pioneer pancake mix by following the directions on the back of the package and combining one package of dry mix with water.
  • Now, coat a mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
  • Then, using a cookie scooper or a spoon, fill each of the mini muffin tin holes with the pancake mix.
  • Now, add the chopped strawberries, blueberries, bananas, syrup, chocolate chips and bacon onto each individual pancake mix cups.
  • Next, using a toothpick, swirl the fillings into the pancake mix.
  • Then, place the mini muffin tin into the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the pancakes are cooked all the way through.
  • Now, let them cool slightly and carefully remove the mini pancakes from the muffin tin with a butter knife.
  • Finally, serve warm and with syrup. Enjoy!
Keyword mini pancakes, pancakes

OVEN BAKED CHICKEN LOLLIPOPS

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These oven baked chicken lollipops are a super fun and impressive way to serve chicken drumsticks.

Oven Baked Chicken Lollipops

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

How fun are these oven baked chicken drumsticks?

I just love the way they look and was always super impressed whenever I’d see others making them. I thought they had to be somewhat difficult to do.

That is, until I tried them myself. I had no idea how easy they were!

Don’t get me wrong, it’s a labor of love for sure. But once you get the hang of how to do it, it’s easy breezy.

Totally worth the effort to serve something that looks a little special for dinner if you ask me.

This recipe is great because it can be served for anything from casual meal at home to a fancy dinner party.

After all, everyone loves a good piece of chicken and that’s exactly what this is.

Don’t let its amazing looks distract you for the fact that it actually tastes amazing too.

Between the seasoning and incredibly delicious glaze, this recipe is recipe is a total home run.

I hope you give this one 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.

Oven Baked Chicken Lollipops Variations

I like this recipe as it is but here are some ways to switch it up if you’d like to.

  • Chicken- If you’d rather not use drumsticks, chicken thighs would work here too. Also, if lollipoping the chicken seems like too much of a hassle, you can keep the drumsticks how they are and just cook them laying down on a baking sheet.
  • Seasoning- Use the seasoning as a guide and add or subtract whatever you want! Especially if you like a little heat, feel free to bump up the sriracha in the glaze recipe or add in some chili powder to the chicken seasoning.
  • Glaze- Any glaze would work for this recipe, too, so choose your favorite. Honey and soy sauce, hot honey, sweet chili sauce or whatever you’d like!

Other Easy Chicken Recipes

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

Oven Baked Chicken Lollipops Ingredients

  • Chicken Drumsticks
  • Paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Chicken bullion
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil
  • BBQ sauce
  • Sriracha
  • Maple syrup

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°

First, using a sharp knife, cut around the “handle”’of the drumstick through the skin and tenderloin.

Now push the meat down towards the bottom of the drumstick to create a lollipop shape. You can use the knife or your hands. Just be careful not to hit into any shape bones if using your hands.

Then, grip the skin that’s left on the tip of the bone with paper towel and pull it off the top.

Next, take the drumsticks and carefully trim the bone at the bottom so that it’s flat and the drumstick can stand up on its own.

Once the drumsticks are all trimmed (this will be a labor of love but it will be worth it!) place them in a large bowl.

Now, add the olive oil, paprika, chicken bullion, garlic powder, salt and pepper.

Then, massage the oil and seasoning into the meat until it’s nice and evenly coated.

Next, place the chicken lollipops into the center of each muffin tin hole or place them (standing upright) onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Now, bake them for 40 minutes.

In the meantime, mix together the BBQ sauce, sriracha and maple syrup.

Then, once the chicken is done, glaze each drumstick in the sauce by either brushing it on the meat or dunking it in.

Now place them either back into the muffin tin holes or onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Finally, pop them in the oven for another 10 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Oven Baked Chicken Lollipops

These absolutely delicious oven baked chicken lollipops are a super fun and impressive way to serve chicken drumsticks.
No ratings yet
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 6-8 Chicken Drumsticks
  • ¼ c Olive Oil
  • 2 tbs Chicken Bullion
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Glaze

  • ½ cup BBQ Sauce
  • 2 tbs Sriracha (adjust the heat to your liking)
  • ¼ c Maple Syrup

Instructions
 

  • First, using a sharp knife, cut around the “handle”’of the drumstick through the skin and tenderloin.
  • Now push the meat down towards the bottom of the drumstick to create a lollipop shape. You can use the knife or your hands. Just be careful not to hit into any shape bones if using your hands.
  • Then, grip the skin that’s left on the tip of the bone with paper towel and pull it off the top.
  • Next, take the drumsticks and carefully trim the bone at the bottom so that it’s flat and the drumstick can stand up on its own.
  • Once the drumsticks are all trimmed (this will be a labor of love but it will be worth it!) place them in a large bowl.
  • Now, add the olive oil, paprika, chicken bullion, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Please keep in mind when adding salt that the chicken bullion contains salt.
  • Then, massage the oil and seasoning into the meat until it’s nice and evenly coated.
  • Next, place the chicken lollipops into the center of each muffin tin hole or place them (standing upright) onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake them for 40 minutes.
  • In the meantime, mix together the BBQ sauce, sriracha and maple syrup.
  • Then, once the chicken is done, glaze each drumstick in the sauce by either brushing it on the meat or dunking it in.
  • Now place them either back into the muffin tin holes or onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet.
  • Finally, pop them in the oven for another 10 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword chicken lollipops, oven baked chicken lollipops

LEMON AND BLUEBERRY ICE BOX CAKE

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This no bake lemon and blueberry ice box cake is the perfect refreshing summer dessert made with blueberry pie filling, lemon pudding and just a few other simple ingredients in a graham cracker crust.

Lemon And Blueberry Ice Box Cake

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This lemon and blueberry ice box cake is completely right up my alley.

I had this at a friends house one summer night in July and it hit all of the marks. I asked for the recipe right away!

It was refreshing, somewhat light and absolutely delicious. The perfect dessert for a warm summer night.

Oh, and did I mention that this dessert is no bake?

Anyone that knows me is fully aware that I am not a great baker. I’ve come to terms with that.

Any dessert that I’m going to make needs to be fast, easy and delicious. Oh and preferably does not require an oven.

I sure did hit the jackpot with this one.

The tart lemon and blueberry go so well together. It’s a truly delicious combination of flavors.

I hope you give this dessert recipe a try. I know that if you do, you’ll love it just as much and my friends and I did.

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.

Lemon And Blueberry Ice Box Cake Q & A.

-Can fresh blueberries be used? No they can not be substituted in this recipe. The jelly/syrup that the blueberries come in are needed here.

-Can the pudding be substituted? The lemon and blueberry flavors are what make it so special. If you absolutely need to substitute, vanilla would be the best choice.

-Can the graham crackers be substituted? Yes absolutely! Try subbing them for Nilla Wafers, Ginger Snaps or Animal Crackers.

Other NO BAKE Dessert Recipes

If you like super easy to make no bake desserts like this one, here are some others that I know you’ll love, too.

Lemon And Blueberry Ice Box Cake Ingredients

  • Graham Cracker Crumbs
  • Melted Butter
  • Room Temperature Cream Cheese
  • Sugar
  • Lemon Instant Pudding
  • Milk
  • Lemon Juice
  • Blueberry Pie Filling
  • Cool Whip

Instructions

First, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and butter in a medium size bowl.

Now, press the mixture down into a 9”x 13” baking dish and place it into the fridge to set.

Then, using a hand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until it’s well combined.

Next, mix in the lemon juice and milk.

Now, add the lemon instant pudding and mix it until all of the ingredients are combined and the batter is thick.

Next, add the pudding mixture on top of the graham cracker crust and spread it out until it’s flat and even.

Then, add the blueberry pie filling to the top of the pudding and spread that out until it’s flat and even also.

Now finish it off with the final layer of cool whip on top and garnish with the reserved graham cracker crumbs.

Now, place it in the fridge for a cookie of hours to let it set.

Finally, serve cool and enjoy!

Lemon and Blueberry Ice Box Cake

This no bake lemon and blueberry ice box cake is the perfect refreshing summer dessert made with blueberry pie filling, lemon pudding and just a few other simple ingredients in a graham cracker crust.
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Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
  • ¾ cups Butter, melted
  • 2 8 ounch Cream Cheese. room temperature
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 3.4 ounce Lemon Instant Pudding
  • 1 cup Milk
  • ⅓ cup Lemon Juice
  • 21 ounch Blueberry Pie Filling
  • 8 ounce Cool Whip (thawed)

Instructions
 

  • First, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and butter in a medium size bowl (save a little for the garnish at the end). Press the mixture down into a 9”x 13” baking dish and place it into the fridge to set.
  • Then, using a hand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until it’s well combined then mix in the lemon juice and milk.
  • Now, add the lemon instant pudding and mix it until all of the ingredients are combined and the batter is thick.
  • Next, add the pudding mixture on top of the graham cracker crust and spread it out until it’s flat and even.
  • Then, add the blueberry pie filling to the top of the pudding and spread that out until it’s flat and even also.
  • Now finish it off with the final layer of cool whip on top and garnish with the reserved graham cracker crumbs.
  • Finally, place it in the fridge for a cookie of hours to let it set.
Keyword lemon and blueberry cake, lemon blueberry ice box cake

PEANUT BUTTER POKE CAKE

by 3 Comments

Peanut butter poke cake is made with boxed chocolate cake mix, instant pudding and just a few other simple ingredients for the ultimate peanut butter lovers dessert.

Peanut Butter Poke Cake

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Peanut butter poke cake is the ultimate dessert for people who love chocolate and peanut butter desserts like me.

I just can’t get enough of this flavor combination. It’s one of my all time favorites.

Luckily for me, poke cakes are super easy to make and require very little effort.

No fuss dessert recipes like this one are right up my alley. I try to make them for as many occasions as possible.

They’re fantastic for birthdays, watching the big game or even holidays.

What’s so amazing about poke cakes is that you can really jazz up a box of cake mix. Which is perfect for people who arent great bakes like myself.

The “poke” park of the recipe comes from poking holes into the cake mix once it’s baked.

That way, all of the delicious peanut butter pudding seeps into the holes so that every bite is loaded with peanut butter goodness.

Everyone loves when I make this recipe and it’s always a huge hit with no crumbs left.

I hope you give this recipe a try. I know 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.

Peanut Butter Poke Cake Variations

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

  • Cake Mix- I love chocolate cake mix for this but choose any flavor you’d like. Vanilla or devils food would be fantastic choices.
  • Peanut Butter- Smooth peanut butter is the best for this in my opinion but chunky would work if you’d like to add in some texture.
  • Topping- instead of Reese’s peanut butter cups, use Reese’s mini cups or Reese’s pieces. Any other toppings like chocolate syrup, chopped nuts or whatever else you’d like would all work, too.

Other Easy Dessert Recipes

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

Peanut Butter Poke Cake Ingredients

  • Chocolate cake mix (plus the ingredients to make it)
  • Creamy peanut putter
  • Instant vanilla pudding
  • Milk
  • Cool Whip
  • Chocolate Icing
  • Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Instructions

First, bake the chocolate cake in a 9 x 13” inch baking dish according to the directions on the back of the package.

Then, let the cake cool and using the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes into it about and inch and a half apart.

Next, in a medium sized bowl, make the instant pudding by beating it together with the milk.

Now, mix in the peanut butter until it’s evenly combined with the pudding.

Then, spread the pudding mixture over the cake letting it drip into the holes.

Next, microwave the icing for 30- 60 seconds or until it’s melted and pour it over the pudding layer.

Then, carefully spread it out using the back of a spoon so that it’s covering the pudding layer.

Now place that into the refrigerator to set for about 30 minutes.

Once the icing has set, beat together the cool whip and more peanut butter.

Then, spread that on top of the icing as the third and final layer.

Now roughly chop the Reese’s peanut butter cups and place them all over the peanut butter cool whip layer.

Finally, serve cold and enjoy!

Peanut Butter Poke Cake

Peanut butter poke cake is made with boxed chocolate cake mix, instant pudding and just a few other simple ingredients for the ultimate peanut butter lovers dessert.
5 from 1 vote
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Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box Chocolate Cake Mix (plus the ingredients to make it)
  • 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
  • 3.5 oz Vanilla Instant Pudding
  • 2 cups Milk
  • 8 oz tub Cool Whip (thawed)
  • 12 oz Chocoate Icing
  • 10 Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

Instructions
 

  • First, bake the chocolate cake in a 9 x 13” inch baking dish according to the directions on the back of the package. Let it cool and using the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes into it about and inch and a half apart.
  • Next, in a medium sized bowl, make the instant pudding by beating it together with the milk. Mix in ½ cup of the peanut butter until it’s evenly combined with the pudding.
  • Then, spread the pudding mixture over the cake letting it drip into the holes.
  • Next, microwave the icing for 30- 60 seconds or until it’s melted and pour it over the pudding layer. Carefully spread it out using the back of a spoon so that it’s covering the pudding layer.
  • Now, place that into the refrigerator to set for about 30 minutes.
  • Once the icing has set, beat together the cool whip and ½ cup of the peanut butter. Spread that on top of the icing as the third and final layer.
  • Now, roughly chop the Reese’s peanut butter cups and place them all over the peanut butter cool whip layer. Serve cold and enjoy!
Keyword peanut butter poke cake, poke cake

PORK CHOPS IN GRAVY

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Pork chops in gravy are a dinner the whole family will love with juicy, flavorful pork chops served in a creamy onion gravy.

Pork Chops In Gravy

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Pork chops in gravy is truly a dinner that the whole family will love.

Everyone in my house, from the kids to adults, absolutely love when this dish is on the dinner menu.

The pork chops are so flavorful and juicy and go perfectly with the creamy gravy.

I love to make this for them because it’s a guaranteed hit and super easy to make, too.

It’s a recipe that can be on the table in 30 minutes making it perfect for a busy weekday dinner.

Stick to your ribs dinners like this one I like to serve in the cool fall and winter months because it keeps my family full and warm for hours.

Especially when the pork chops are paired with something to soak up all of that delicious gravy like mashed potatoes.

That’s comfort food at its best if you ask me.

No need to wait into the temperature drops to make this though. It’s perfectly delicious all year round, 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 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.

Pork Chops In Gravy Variations

I love this recipes as it is, but here are some ways to switch it up if you’d like to.

  • Pork Chops- boneless is preferred but bone in pork chops will work also.
  • Add Ins- feel free to add some sautéed sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the gravy mixture.
  • Sides- I served these with mashed potatoes and asparagus but whatever sides you choose are up to you. Anything to soak up that extra gravy would be a great choice.

Other Easy Dinner Ideas

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

Pork Chops In Gravy Ingredients

  • Boneless Pork Chops
  • Flour
  • Canola Oil
  • Butter
  • Heavy Cream
  • Chicken Broth
  • Onion, chopped
  • Garlic, chopped
  • Kitchen Bouquet
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder

Instructions

First, season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika.

Now, season the flour with the same ingredients and stir everything together until it’s nice and blended. (Set 3 tbs of seasoned flour aside for later).

Next, one by one, place the pork chops into the flour and coat in on both sides being sure to shake off any extra.

Then, in a large skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat and fry the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Now, set them aside and keep them warm while we make the gravy.

Next, remove some of the oil from the skillet if it exceeds about 3 tbs and add butter and the onions.

Then, lightly season them with salt and pepper and sauté them until they’re soft.

Now add in the chopped garlic and flour and stir it into the onions for about 3 minutes.

Next, stir in the beef broth, cream and kitchen bouquet and season the broth with salt, pepper and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

Then, let the gravy thicken up over medium heat for about 5 minutes stirring occasionally while you plate the pork chops.

Finally, pour the gravy over the pork chops, serve warm and enjoy!

Pork Chops In Gravy

Pork chops in gravy are a dinner the whole family will love with juicy, flavorful pork chops served in a creamy onion gravy.
No ratings yet
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 6 Boneless Pork Chops
  • ¾ cup Flour
  • ¼-1/2 cup Canola Oil
  • 1 medium Onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, chopped
  • 3 tbs Butter
  • 1 cup Chicken or beef broth
  • ¼ cup Heavy Cream
  • 1 teaspoon Kitchen Bouquet
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder (divided) Add more if desired
  • 1 tbs Onion Powder (divided) Add more if desired
  • 1 tbs Paprika (divided) Add more if desired
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • First, season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika.
  • Now, season the flour with the same ingredients and stir everything together until it’s nice and blended. (Set 3 tbs of seasoned flour aside for later).
  • Next, one by one, place the pork chops into the flour and coat in on both sides being sure to shake off any extra.
  • Then, in a large skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat and fry the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  • Now, set them aside and keep them warm while we make the gravy.
  • Next, remove some of the oil from the skillet if it exceeds about 3 tbs and add butter and the onions.
  • Then, lightly season them with salt and pepper and sauté them until they’re soft.
  • Now add in the chopped garlic and flour and stir it into the onions for about 3 minutes.
  • Next, stir in the beef broth, cream and kitchen bouquet and season the broth with salt, pepper and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if needed.
  • Then, let the gravy thicken up over medium heat for about 5 minutes stirring occasionally while you plate the pork chops.
  • Finally, pour the gravy over the pork chops, serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword breaded pork chops, pork chops in gravy

CRISPY BAKED CHICKEN WINGS

by 3 Comments

These crispy baked chicken wings are perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and absolutely delicious!

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These crispy baked chicken wings are so incredibly easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Air fryer chicken wings have become a favorite of mine around here.

I just love how easy they are to make and the wings really crispy up nicely.

The only problem with the air fryer is that it only works with small batches.

When I’m hosting a party or having people over to watch the big game, I need something that can make enough at one time for all of my guests.

That’s where these baked chicken wings come in. I never thought I’d find a recipe that would rival the air fryer but this is it!

These are so flavorful and nice and crispy all around. That’s because of the secret ingredient- baking powder.

The baking powder does something to the skin that comes to life in the oven and produces the best wings.

I love making chicken wings this way for a crowd. Everyone loves them and they’re always the first thing to go.

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 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.

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings Variations

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

  • Chicken- Instead of wings, this recipe works on chicken thighs and drumsticks, also. Just be sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165° when it’s done if you’re using a bigger piece of meat.
  • Baking Powder- The baking powder helps get the wings super crispy. If you don’t have baking powder, a little corn starch will work, too.

Other Easy Appetizer Ideas

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

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings Ingredients

  • Chicken wings (separated into drums and flats)
  • Olive Oil
  • Knorr Chicken Bullion
  • Garlic Powder
  • Onion Powder
  • Baking powder (aluminum free)
  • Paprika
  • Salt & pepper
  • Blue cheese or ranch dressing and celery ( optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°

First, pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel and add them to a large bowl.

Now, add the olive oil and season the wings with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, baking powder and chicken bullion.

Then, toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the seasoning.

Next, place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet and spray it generously with cooking spray then lay the chicken wings down on the rack.

Then, place them in the oven for 30 minutes.

Next, flip the wings and place them back into the oven for another 30 minutes.

Now, take them out of the oven and let them rest on the rack for about 5 minutes.

Finally, serve warm with blue cheese/ ranch dressing and celery and enjoy!

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings

These crispy baked chicken wings are perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and absolutely delicious!
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Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pounds Chicken wings (separated into drums and flats)
  • ¼ cup Olive Oil
  • 1.5 tbs Knorr Chicken Bullion
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 2 tbs Baking powder (aluminum free)
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • Salt & Pepper to taste
  • Blue cheese or ranch dressing and celery ( optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°.
  • First, pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel and add them to a large bowl.
  • Now, add the olive oil and season the wings with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, baking powder and chicken bullion. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the seasoning.
  • Next, place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet and spray it generously with cooking spray then lay the chicken wings down on the rack.
  • Then, place them in the oven for 30 minutes.
  • Next, flip the wings and place them back into the oven for another 30 minutes.
  • Now, take them out of the oven and let them rest on the rack for about 5 minutes.
  • Finally, serve warm with blue cheese/ ranch dressing and celery and enjoy!
Keyword crispy baked chicken wings, crispy wings

MEXICAN CHEESECAKE

by 19 Comments

This Mexican cheesecake is the perfect combination of a cinnamon sugar crust and sweet cream cheese center for an absolutely irresistible dessert.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Mexican cheesecake or “sopapilla” is one of my most popular recipes among family and friends by far. This recipe was given to me by a friend about 20 years ago and I’ve been making it ever since. It’s so simple, easy to make and a guaranteed hit every time. I served this for a family party all those years ago and my brother in law, Christophe, fell in love with this dessert.

If you’re looking to bring something sweet to a bbq, party, family gathering or any occasion, this is it! I guarantee that not only will this desert get absolutely devoured but you’ll be flooded with compliments, too. The cinnamon sugar crust and sweet, smooth cream cheese center truly makes this an unforgettable dessert.

Ingredients

Heres everything you'll need to make this delicious dessert. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.

  • Crescent Rolls
  • Cream Cheese
  • Sugar
  • Vanilla
  • Melted Butter
  • Cinnamon

How To Make It

Here is how to make this delicious dessert. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, in a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sugar and vanilla. Using a hand mixer, beat it together until it’s smooth and evenly combined.

After that, unroll one of the crescent roll cans and add it to the bottom of a greased 9 x 13” baking dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the crescent rolls. Add the other can of crescent rolls to the top of the cream cheese mixture.

Next, in a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, cinnamon and sugar until they're well blended. Pour it evenly on top and place it into the center rack of the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Let it cool and place it in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Storage

Let the cheesecake cool completely and place it into an air tight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Mexican Cheesecake

This Mexican cheesecake is the perfect combination of a cinnamon sugar crust and sweet cream cheese center for an absolutely irresistible dessert.
5 from 3 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Mexican

Equipment

  • 9" x 13" baking dish

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Cans Crescent Roll Sheets
  • 1 Cup Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla
  • 16 Oz Cream Cheese (softened)

TOPPING

  • ¼ Cup Butter, melted
  • ¼ Cup Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sugar and vanilla. Using a hand mixer, beat it together until it’s smooth and evenly combined.
  • After that, unroll one of the crescent roll cans and add it to the bottom of a greased 9 x 13” baking dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the crescent rolls. Add the other can of crescent rolls to the top of the cream cheese mixture.
  • In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, cinnamon and sugar until they're well blended. Pour it evenly on top and place it into the center rack of the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Let it cool and place it in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Keyword mexican cheesecake

Other Easy Dessert Recipes

If you like super easy to make dessert recipes like this one, you have to try this Boston Cream Poke Cake, Pina Colada Poke Cake and Cinnamon Roll Cake.

SMILEY FRY BACON CHEESEBURGER CASSEROLE

by 3 Comments

This smiley fry bacon cheeseburger casserole is a super fun play on a cheeseburger and fries using bacon bits, cheesy seasoned ground beef and smile fries that the whole family will love.

Smiley Fry Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This smiley fry bacon cheeseburger casserole is a super interesting, really delicious and very easy to out put together dinner idea.

At the very least, a conversation starter for sure. I mean, how could it not be?

The first time that I served this to my family they thought it was hilarious. My sons looked at me with a “is this for real” face.

And yes, it absolutely is was! But I guess it is kinda funny as a little kid to have your dinner smiling back at you.

This casserole is a really fun play on a cheeseburger and fries. A dish that I know everyone in my family already loves.

The flavors just go together so perfectly. It’s a no brainer for me to serve this when I need to make a meal that everyone will enjoy.

The cute little smiley faces just take the whole dish to the next level for me.

Those smiley fries must be contagious because Im always so happy to serve this dish for dinner.

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. 

Smiley Fry Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Variations

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

  • Meat- Ground chicken or turkey can be substituted.
  • Bacon- Use fresh bacon that’s been cooked and chopped or bacon bits.
  • Cheese- Any hand shredded cheese would work here so choose your favorite. Just be sure to shred it yourself because it will melt way better that way.
  • Fries- Instead of using smiley fries, tater tots or even hash browns would be an awesome substitution.

Other Easy Casserole Recipes

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

Smiley Fry Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Ingredients

  • Ground beef
  • Chopped onion
  • Worcestershire Sauce
  • Relish
  • Cooked and crumbled bacon
  • Campbells Cheddar Cheese Soup
  • Sour Cream
  • Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Milk
  • McCain Smile Fries
  • Salt, Pepper and Garlic Powder
  • Parsely for garnish (optional)

Instructions

First, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together medium high heat breaking the beef it into small pieces as it browns. Drain as much fat from the ground beef and onion as possible. It will absorb into the fries if not.

Then, season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Now, add the Worcestershire sauce, relish and bacon bits.

Next, add the cheese soup, sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese.

Then, stir everything together until it’s evenly combined.

Now, add the beef mixture to a baking dish and smooth it out until it’s laying down flat and even.

Next, top it evenly with more shredded cheddar cheese.

Then, place the smiley fries down side by side until they cover the whole top of the casserole.

Now, place it into the oven to bake until the fries are golden brown and the sides are hot and bubbly.

Finally, garnish with parsley (optional) and let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy!

Smiley Fry Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

This smiley fry bacon cheeseburger casserole is a super fun play on a cheeseburger and fries using bacon bits, cheesy seasoned ground beef and smile fries that the whole family will love.
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ground Beef
  • 1 small Onion, chopped
  • ½ cup Bacon Bits or 2-3 strips of cooked and crumble bacon
  • 2 tbs Relish
  • 10.5 oz Campbells Cheddar Cheese Soup
  • 2 tbs Worcestershire Sauce
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded (divided)
  • ¼ cup Sour Cream
  • ¼ cup Milk
  • 22 oz bag McCain Smile Fries (use as many as you need to top the casserole)
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Parsely for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees
  • First, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together medium high heat breaking the beef it into small pieces as it browns.
  • Drain as much fat from the ground beef and onion as possible so it does nit absorb into the fries later, Then, season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Now, add the Worcestershire sauce, relish, bacon bits, cheese soup, sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Then, stir everything together until it’s evenly combined. and add it to a 9 x 13 inch baking dish,
  • Next, top it evenly with the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Then, place the smiley fries down side by side until they cover the whole top of the casserole.
  • Now, place it into the oven to bake for about 20-30 minutes or until the fries are golden brown and the sides are hot and bubbly.
  • Finally, garnish with parsley (optional) and let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
Keyword bacon cheeseburger casserole, cheeseburger casserole, smiley fry bacon cheeseburger casserole

HAM AND CHEESE SLIDERS

by 1 Comment

Ham and cheese sliders are made by filling kings Hawaiian rolls with ham and cheese then baking them in a flavorful buttery sauce.

Ham And Cheese Sliders

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These ham and cheese sliders are the perfect get together food choice.

I love making these for family and friends at any chance I get because they’re always a huge hit.

Not to mention they’re super simple and easy to make, too.

Everybody loves the grab and go style of the delicious sliders.

These are also an amazing lunch idea, party appetizer or game day snack.

I’ve even made them for my kids as a quick, no fuss dinner on a busy weeknight.

We all just absolutely love them.

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

Ham And Cheese Sliders Variations

I like this recipe as it is, but here are some ways to switch it up if you’d like to.

  • Ham- Honey or smoked ham are great options for these sliders if you’d prefer not to use deli ham.
  • Cheese- Instead of Swiss cheese, and kind of cheese like American or cheddar would work. Choose your favorite.
  • Condiments- Mayonnaise and yellow mustard are fantastic choices here but use any type of mustard like spicy or Dijon and mayonnaise that you’d like.

Other Hawaiian Roll Recipes

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

Ham And Cheese Sliders Ingredients

  • Kings Hawaiian Rolls
  • Thinly Sliced Deli Ham
  • Swiss Cheese Slices
  • Yellow Mustard
  • Mayonnaise
  • Dijon Mustard
  • Melted butter
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Onion Powder
  • Poppy Seeds

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, slice the Hawaiian rolls down the center horizontally and remove the top.

Then, place the bottom of the rolls down onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Next, add some of the mayonnaise and yellow mustard and spread it out evenly.

Now, add the sliced ham down on top of the mayonnaise and mustard.

Then, add the Swiss cheese slices on top of the ham.

Next, add a little more mayonnaise and yellow mustard and spread it evenly on top of the Swiss cheese.

Now, place the top of the Hawaiian rolls on top.

Then, stir together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, onion powder and Worcestershire sauce.

Next, pour it over the top of the rolls and using a pastry brush, spread it out evenly.

Now, sprinkle the top evenly with the poppy seeds.

Now, place it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on it because they tent to burn fast.

Finally, let them cool slightly and slice them into their individual sandwiches. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ham And Cheese Sliders

Ham and cheese sliders are made by filling kings Hawaiian rolls with ham and cheese then baking them in a flavorful buttery sauce.
No ratings yet
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Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package Kings Hawaiian Rolls
  • ¾- 1 pound Deli Ham, thinly sliced
  • 6 slices Swiss Cheese
  • 2 tbs Yellow Mustard (divided)
  • 2 tbs Mayonnaise (divided)

Topping

  • ¼-1/2 cup Butter, melted
  • 1 tbs Dijon Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 tbs Poppy Seeds

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • Slice the Hawaiian rolls down the center horizontally and remove the top. Place the bottom of the rolls down onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet.
  • Add half of the mayonnaise and yellow mustard and spread it out evenly.
  • Add the sliced ham down on top of the mayonnaise and mustard.
  • Add the Swiss cheese slices on top of the ham.
  • Add a little more mayonnaise and yellow mustard and spread it evenly on top of the Swiss cheese.
  • Place the top of the Hawaiian rolls on top.
  • Stir together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, onion powder and Worcestershire sauce and it over the top of the rolls and using a pastry brush, spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the top evenly with the poppy seeds.
  • Place it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on it because they tent to burn fast.
  • Let them cool slightly and slice them into their individual sandwiches. Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword ham and cheese sliders

MILLION DOLLAR SPAGHETTI CASSEROLE

by 2 Comments

Million dollar spaghetti casserole is pasta tossed in creamy Alfredo sauce topped with a hearty meat sauce and baked with a melted cheese topping.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

million dollar spaghetti cover photo

My goodness this million dollar spaghetti casserole is sure to get your taste buds buzzing. There are so many delicious flavors going on from the cheesy, garlicy Alfredo sauce to the seasoned beef and tomato sauce cheese topping.

I love casserole style recipes like this one for busy weeknight dinners. They’re so easy to put together and clean up is a breeze, too. Plus, this is a real “stick to your ribs” dinner that will keep everyone full and happy for hours. Give it a try for your next family meal and see what all the fuss is about.

Ingredients

Here's everything you'll need to make this delicious dinner. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.

  • Ground Beef- Gives this dish a hearty and filling result.
  • Onion- Adds a slight sweetness.
  • Garlic- Brings an aromatic homemade feel.
  • Bell Pepper- Adds texture and color.
  • Tomato Sauce- Brings just the right amount of acidity to compliment the meat sauce.
  • Alfredo Sauce- Adds a cheesy, creamy flavor to the pasta that also keeps it moist while cooking.
  • Spaghetti- The perfect shaped pasta to capturea ll the flavors of the casserole.
  • Parmesan Cheese- Bings a cheesy, salty taste throughout.
  • Mozzarella Cheese- A mild cheese that melts perfectly without competing with the other strong flavors of the dish.
  • Salt & Pepper- Brings out the flavors of all the other ingredients.
  • Italian Seasoning- Just the right amount of Italian herbs and seasonings all in one place.
  • Garlic Powder- Adds an earthy garlicy flavor throughout the whole casserole.

How To Make It

Heres how to make this incredible pasta dish. You can find the full ingredients list and instructions on the recipe card below.

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, add the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic and bell pepper to a large skillet. Brown the ground beef and vegetables together, breaking the beef into small pieces as cooks. Drain any excess fat and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer for about 5-10 minutes.

meat sauce in skillet

Now, toss the cooked spaghetti into the Alfredo sauce and add it to a greased 9” x 13” baking dish. Spread it out so that it's flat and even and spoon the tomato sauce and beef mixture to the top.

NOTE: The pasta may look like it has just a little too much Alfredo sauce on it. That's actually exactly what you want to make sure the pasta doest dry out in the oven.

Now, top the beef mixture with Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, place it into the center rack of the oven, uncovered, for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are hot and bubbly. Let rest for 5-10 minutes and enjoy!

PRO TIP: Let the casserole rest to firm up and settle. It will make it must easier to serve and eat.

finished million dollar spaghetti casserole

Storage

Let the casserole cool completely and place it into a food safe, air tight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Do I Have To Use Jarred Tomato And Alfredo Sauce?

Absolutely not! Feel free to make your own or use my homemade recipes for Tomato and Alfredo sauces. I just like to use jarred sauces here because it makes my life much easier. If you do go the jarred sauce route- I recommend Raoes.

What Can I Serve This With?

Casseroles like this one are great because they don't really need to be served with much else. A simple side salad, some homemade garlic bread or roasted vegetable like Broccoli would be great choices.

million dollar spaghetti casserole

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Million dollar spaghetti casserole is pasta tossed in creamy Alfredo sauce topped with a hearty meat sauce and baked with a melted cheese topping.
No ratings yet
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian

Equipment

  • 9" x 13" baking dish

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Pound Ground Beef
  • 1 Small Onion, chopped
  • 1 Small Green Bell Pepper, chopped
  • 3 Clove Garlic, chopped
  • 1.5 Cups Tomato Sauce
  • 1 Pound Cooked Spaghetti
  • 2-2.5 Cups Alfredo Sauce
  • ½ Cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
  • 1 Cup Mozzarella Cheese, hand shredded
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 Tbs Garlic Powder

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • Add the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic and bell pepper to a large skillet. Brown the ground beef and vegetables together, breaking the beef into small pieces as cooks. Drain any excess fat and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
  • Toss the cooked spaghetti into the Alfredo sauce and add it to a greased 9” x 13” baking dish. Spread it out so that it's flat and even.
  • Spoon the tomato sauce and beef mixture to the top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Top the beef mixture with Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, place it into the center rack of the oven, uncovered, for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are hot and bubbly. Let rest for 5-10 minutes and enjoy!

Video

Keyword Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Other Easy Baked Pasta Dishes

If you like super easy to make baked pasta dishes like this one, you have to try Pasta Al Forno, Baked Monterey Chicken Spaghetti and Boursin Baked Ziti With Spinach.

CARAMELIZED ONION AND BACON DIP

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Caramelized onion and bacon dip is a crowd pleasing appetizer made with caramelized onions and crumbled bacon in a delicious mix of seasoned sour cream, cream cheese and mayonnaise.

Caramelized Onion And Bacon Dip

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Caramelized onion and bacon dip is an incredibly delicious appetizer for any occasion.

This recipe is fantastic for holidays, game day or even for just relaxing at home.

It’s also the perfect thing to bring to a tailgate or party. This dip will be the talk of the event for sure.

Everyone that I’ve ever served this to just loves this and it’s always the first thing to go.

First of all, those caramelized onions are incredible on their own. They’re loaded with so much flavor when cooked down like this.

It’s not hard to do at all either, but it does take some time. A process completely worth the wait if you ask me.

Once you’ve got those onions and chopped bacon mixed into your seasoned sour cream, mayonnaise and cream cheese base it’s hard to resist.

All the flavors just go so beautifully together.

Every time I‘ve made this, I’m flooded with compliments and requests for the recipe.

I hope you give this one a try. If you do, I know you’re going to 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.

Caramelized Onion And Bacon Dip Variations

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

  • Cream Cheese- use ½ the amount of cream cheese for a less thick dip and feel free to choose a one like garlic and herb to add more flavor.
  • Onions- You can use yellow or white onions for this recipe.
  • Dippers- Instead of potato chips, tortilla chips or any chip of your choice would work great. Even some veggie sticks would be a great choice.

Other Party Dips

If you like delicious, crowd pleasing dips like this one, here are some others that I know you’ll love, too.

Caramelized Onion And Bacon Dip Ingredients

  • Onions, chopped (white or yellow)
  • Butter
  • White Wine
  • Softened Cream Cheese
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sour Cream
  • Worcestershire Sauce
  • Bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • Scallions, chopped
  • Sriracha
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder

Instructions

First, melt the butter over medium high heat in a large skillet and add in the chopped onions.

Then, salt the onions, give them a big stir and turn the heat down to low.

Now, cook the onions on low for about 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the onions turn a golden brown color.

Next, carefully add the wine and turn the heat back up to medium high.

Then, cook the onions, stirring frequently for about 4 minutes and then let them cool.

Now, in a medium sized bowl, add the cream cheese, mayonnaise and sour cream.

Next, season it with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Then, add the scallions, chopped bacon, caramelized onions, Worcestershire sauce and sriracha.

Next, stir everything together until it’s evenly combined and place it into a serving bowl.

Finally, garnish the top with more chopped scallions and bacon bits and serve room temperature and with wavy potato chips. Enjoy!

Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip

Caramelized onion and bacon dip is a crowd pleasing appetizer made with caramelized onions and crumbled bacon in a delicious mix of seasoned sour cream, cream cheese and mayonnaise.
No ratings yet
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Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tbs Butter
  • 3-4 Onions, chopped (yellow or white)
  • ¼ cup White Wine
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup Sour Cream
  • ½ cup Bacon, cooked and crumbled (save some for garnish later)
  • ¼ cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tbs Worcestershire Sauce
  • ¼ cup Scallions, chopped (save a little for the topping)
  • 1 teaspoon Sriracha (add more if you want more heat)
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Wavy Potato Chips

Instructions
 

  • Melt the butter over medium high heat in a large skillet and add in the chopped onions.
  • Salt the onions, give them a big stir and turn the heat down to low.
  • Now, cook the onions on low for about 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the onions turn a golden brown color.
  • Next, carefully add the wine and turn the heat back up to medium high. Cook the onions, stirring frequently for about 4 minutes and then let them cool.
  • Now, in a medium sized bowl, add the cream cheese, mayonnaise and sour cream. Season it with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
  • Then, add the scallions, chopped bacon, caramelized onions, Worcestershire sauce and sriracha.
  • Next, stir everything together until it’s evenly combined and place it into a serving bowl. Garnish the top with more chopped scallions and bacon bits and serve room temperature and with wavy potato chips. Enjoy!
Keyword caramelized onion and bacon dip

SOUR CREAM MASHED POTATOES

by 1 Comment

Sour cream mashed potatoes are made by mixing seasoned potatoes, sour cream, butter and just a couple other simple ingredients for the ultimate crowd pleasing side dish.

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These sour cream mashed potatoes really are the ultimate, crowd pleasing side dish.

They’re so deliciously smooth and creamy and go with just about any and everything that you can think of.

Boiling the potatoes in broth instead of water gives them so much extra flavor, too. The potatoes soak up all that delicious seasoning as they cook adding an extra layer of goodness.

And who doesn’t love potatoes with sour cream? They are the perfect combo and go together oh so well..

Now imagine these flavorful potatoes blended together with butter and sour cream until smooth and creamy.

A texture you can only achieve when using a hand mixer. That’s the trick to getting these mashed potatoes super smooth.

Not only is this side dish so incredible, it's also really easy to make, too.

I’ve made them for everything from holiday parties like Thanksgiving and Christmas to a casual weekday dinners at home.

They are always a huge hit! My family and friends just absolutely love them and they've become a side dish staple at my house

Everyone should have a really great mashed potato recipe in their collection and this one is it!.

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

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes Variations

I love this recipe for mashed potatoes as it is, but here are some ways to chang it up if you’d like to.

  • Potatoes- Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for making mashed potatoes.
  • Broth- Chicken, vegetable or bone broth can all be used for this recipe.
  • Mashing- The hand mixer makes these mashed potatoes so smooth and creamy. If you prefer a bit of a more chunky texture, a traditional potato masher would be just fine to use.
  • Garnish- scallions, chives or parsley are all great choices for a garnish.

Other Easy Potato Side Dishes

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

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

  • Yellow Potatoes
  • Sour Cream, room temperature
  • Vegetable Broth
  • Butter, room temperature
  • Heavy Cream/Milk
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder
  • Scallions or Chives, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

First, clean, peel and cut the potatoes into equal sized pieces about 1- 2 inches.

Now, place them in a large pot and add the broth until it covers the potatoes.

Then, then the heat up until the liquid starts to boil and then turn it down to medium low.

Next, let the potatoes gently boil, covered, for about 10-15 minutes or until they are fork tender.

Now, drain the potatoes from the vegetable broth and add them to a large bowl.

Then, add the butter, sour cream, salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Next, using a hand mixer on the lowest setting to start, begin to blend the potatoes together.

Then, once the potatoes are fully blended and looking like smooth mashed potatoes add in the heavy cream. Add more heavy cream if you'd prefer them a little less thick.

Now, stir in the cream and taste the potatoes. Reseason them if needed and add them to a serving dish. I normally don't give measurements for salt and pepper but just make sure you use enough so the potatoes aren't bland.

Finally, garnish with scallions, serve warm and enjoy.

Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

These sour cream mashed potatoes are made by blending a few simple ingredients with a hand mixer for the ultimate crowd pleasing side dish.
No ratings yet
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Course Side Dish
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds Yellow Potatoes
  • 3-4 cups Vegetable Broth
  • 1 cup Sour Cream, room temperature
  • 1 stick Butter, room temperature
  • ¼ cup Heavy Cream or Milk
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1-2 tbs Garlic Powder
  • Chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Clean, peel and cut the potatoes into equal sized pieces about 1- 2 inches and place them in a large pot on the stove.
  • Add the broth until it covers the potatoes. Turn up the heat until the liquid starts to boil then turn the heat down to medium low.
  • Let the potatoes gently boil, covered, for about 10-15 minutes or until they are fork tender.
  • Drain the potatoes from the vegetable broth and add them to a large bowl.
  • Add the butter, sour cream, salt, pepper and garlic powder.
  • Using a hand mixer on the lowest setting to start, begin to blend the potatoes together until they are smooth.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and reseason the potatoes if needed. Add more cream if you want to thin them out a little more.
  • Add them to a serving dish and garnish with the scallions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Video

Keyword sour cream mashed potatoes

BARBECUE CHICKEN DIP

by Leave a Comment

Ready in just 20 minutes, this barbecue chicken dip is a delicious, crowd pleasing appetizer made with rotisserie chicken, bbq sauce, shredded cheese and just a few other simple ingredients.

Barbecue Chicken Dip

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This barbecue chicken dip is so incredibly delicious and easy to make.

Dips are always the star of the show at any get together that I’ve had and this one is no exception.

I’ve served this for so many occasions like parties, holidays, movie nights and countless football Sundays.

To say that this recipe is always a huge hit would be a massive understatement. This is one of the first appetizers to go no matter what.

Everyone just absolutely loves it. The flavors are so unique and go together so well.

This reminds me of the classic Buffalo Chicken Dip that’s been a part dip staple for years.

Except it’s a little something different but just as hearty and delicious.

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.

Barbecue Chicken Dip Variations

I like this chicken dip recipe made just as it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you’d like to.

  • Chicken- any kind of cooked and shredded or cubed chicken will work for this recipe.
  • Cheese- use any kind of cheese that you prefer. Just be sure to shred it yourself and avoid the preshredded stuff that comes in a bag. It will melt way better that way.
  • Cast Iron Skillet- This dip can be made in any oven safe baking dish instead of a cast iron skillet.
  • Dipping- Tortilla chips or any cracker would be great with this dip. Keep in mind it’s on the thick side so choose something sturdy.
  • Low Carb- Skip the tortilla chips and serve this with sliced vegetables like celery and carrot sticks for a low carb option.

Others Easy Dip Recipes

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

Barbecue Chicken Dip Ingredients

  • Rotisserie Chicken, shredded
  • Banana Pepper Rings, chopped
  • Canola Oil
  • Onion, chopped
  • Red Bell Pepper, chopped
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Cream Cheese, room temperature
  • Sour Cream
  • Mayonnaise
  • BBQ Sauce
  • Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • Chopped Red Onion and Chives as garnish, optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, in a small skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat and sauté the peppers and onions in a little bit of salt and pepper for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.

Now, in a large bowl, add the chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, banana peppers, bbq sauce and most of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

Next, stir everything together until it’s evenly combined.

Then, add the chicken mixture to a cast iron skillet and smooth it out so that it’s flat and level.

Now, add more BBQ sauce to the top and using the back of a spoon, spread that out evenly.

Next, add more shredded Monterey Jack cheese.

Then, place it in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are hot and bubbly.

Finally, garnish with chopped red onion and chives (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy!

Barbecue Chicken Dip

Ready in just 20 minutes, this barbecue chicken dip is a delicious, crowd pleasing appetizer made with rotisserie chicken, bbq sauce, shredded cheese and just a few other simple ingredients.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Rotisserie Chicken, shredded
  • ¼ cup Banana Pepper Rings, chopped
  • 1 tbs Canola Oil
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 small Onion, chopped
  • 1 small Red Bell Pepper, chopped
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese, room temperature
  • ½ cup Sour Cream
  • ¼ cup Mayonnaise
  • ½ cup BBQ Sauce
  • 1 ½ cup Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
  • Chopped Red Onion and Chives as garnish, optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • In a small skillet, heat the oil over medium high heat and sauté the peppers and onions in a little bit of salt and pepper for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.
  • In a large bowl, add the chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, banana peppers, ¼ cup BBQ sauce and one cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
  • Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined.
  • Add the chicken mixture to a cast iron skillet and smooth it out so that it’s flat and level.
  • Add ¼ cup BBQ sauce to the top and using the back of a spoon, spread that out evenly.
  • Sprinkle ½ cup pf shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the top.
  • Place it in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are hot and bubbly.
  • Garnish with chopped red onion and chives (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword barbecue chicken dip, bbq chicken dip

CINNAMON ROLL CAKE

by 7 Comments

This cinnamon roll cake is made with boxed cake mix and cinnamon sugar swirls covered in a sweet vanilla glaze for all the delicious flavors of a cinnamon roll with much less of the fuss.

Cinnamon Roll Cake

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This super easy to make cinnamon roll cake provides all the delicious flavors of a cinnamon roll with way less work.

My kids absolutely love cinnamon rolls but making them from scratch can be such a hassle. I usually just wind up skipping making them all together or buying the premade kind in a tube.

Luckily I found this cake and it instantly became one of their favorites. They ask me to make this for them all the time now.

It’s kind of a cross between “made from scratch” and premade.

Using boxed cake mix is alone is a huge short cut. Not to mention, you get to skip over rolling each cinnamon roll by hand.

This is a quick and super easy to make dessert that’s sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Bring it to potlucks, holidays, parties or any get together where there’s going to be people with a sweet tooth.

This is sure to be a huge hit!

I hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you’ll love this 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.

Cinnamon Roll Cake Variations

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

  • Cake Mix- If you prefer to use a homemade yellow cake recipe for this recipe please do so.
  • Butter- Melting the butter first will make the cinnamon sugar mixture easier to swirl but it will also settle it into the cake more instead of keeping it on the top. It’s up to you how you prefer it.
  • Glaze- Add about 4 oz of softened cream cheese to thicken the glaze at the end if you’d like to.

Other Easy Boxed Cake Dessert Recipes

If you like easy to make dessert recipes like this one that use boxed cake mix, here are some others that I know you’ll love, too.

Cinnamon Roll Cake Ingredients

  • Yellow Cake Mix ( and the ingredients to make it BUT replace the water with milk)
  • Brown Sugar
  • Butter, softened
  • Flour
  • Cinnamon
  • Powdered Sugar
  • Vanilla Extract
  • Milk

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, make the yellow cake mix according to the directions on the back of the packaging but replace the water with milk.

Now, add the mixture to a 9” x 13” baking dish thats been sprayed with cooking.

Then, in a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour and cinnamon.

Next, add dollops of the brown sugar mixture to the top of the cake mix.

Now, using a butter knife, swirl the brown sugar mixture into the cake.

Then, bake the cake for 30 minutes or until the cake is cooked all the way through.

Next, in a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk and vanilla and pour the glaze over the warm cake.

Finally, let it cool, and serve at room temperature and enjoy!

Cinnamon Roll Cake

This cinnamon roll cake is made with boxed cake mix and cinnamon sugar swirls covered in a sweet vanilla glaze for all the delicious flavors of a cinnamon roll with much less of the fuss.
3 from 2 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box Yellow Cake Mix ( and the ingredients to make it BUT replace the water with milk)
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1 ½ sticks Butter, softened
  • 2 tbs Flour
  • 1 tbs Cinnamon

FOR THE GLAZE

  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar
  • 1 tbs Vanilla Extract
  • 5 tbs Milk

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • Make the yellow cake mix according to the directions on the back of the packaging but replace the water with milk.
  • Add the mixture to a 9” x 13” baking dish thats been sprayed with cooking spray.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour and cinnamon.
  • Add dollops of the brown sugar mixture to the top of the cake mix and using a butter knife, swirl the brown sugar mixture into the cake.
  • Bake the cake for 30 minutes or until the cake is cooked all the way through.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk and vanilla and pour the glaze over the warm cake.
  • Finally, let it cool, and serve at room temperature and enjoy!

Video

Keyword cinnamon roll cake

MILLION DOLLAR CHICKEN CASSEROLE

by 7 Comments

Million dollar chicken casserole is made with rotisserie chicken and sautéd vegetables baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce topped with bacon bits for an unforgettable dinner.

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This million dollar chicken casserole is a lifesaving recipe on busy weeknights.

How great that everything can just get tossed into a baking dish and dinner is basically done. Fast, easy and minimal dishes to clean up after.

Can’t go wrong with that. Not to mention this recipe is also made with very few simple ingredients, too.

This casserole is so cheesy, creamy and delicious. My family just loves it.

We usually eat this on cooler nights when during the fall and winter because it really sticks to the ribs.

This casserole keeps my family warm and full for hours on those cold nights.

It can either be served alone or over some rice or even pasta. The choice is yours.

Either way, it’s sure to be a hit no matter what you serve it with.

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.

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Variations

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

  • Chicken- Instead of shredded rotisserie chicken, about 2-3 cups of and cooked and cubed chicken will work, too.
  • Cheese- Any kind of cheese would work for this recipe so choose your favorite. Just be sure to shred the cheese yourself. It will melt much better that way.
  • Soup- Any “cream of” soup like Cream of Chicken for example would be ok here.
  • Bacon- Precooked bacon bits are ok to use instead of cooked and crumbled bacon. You can also mix some extra bacon bits into the actual chicken mixture if you'd like a little extra, too.

Other Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes

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

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Ingredients

  • Rotisserie Chicken, shredded
  • Cream Cheese, room temp
  • Sour Cream
  • Cream Of Cheddar Soup
  • Red Bell Pepper, chopped
  • Onion, chopped
  • Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • Salt, Pepper and Garlic Powder, chicken bullion
  • Scallions, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, over medium high heat, add the oil in a small skillet and sauté the bell pepper and onion in a little salt and pepper for about 5 minutes.

Next, in a large bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, cream of cheddar soup, and sautéed peppers and onions.

Now, season it with salt, pepper and garlic powder and mix everything together until it’s evenly combined.

Then, add the chicken mixture to an 9 x 13” baking dish and, using the back of a spoon, flatten it out so the top is level and even.

Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese and bacon bits on top.

Now, place it in the oven for about 20-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are hot and bubbly.

Finally, let it cool slightly, garnish with scallions and serve warm. Enjoy!

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Million dollar chicken casserole is made with rotisserie chicken and sautéd vegetables baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce topped with bacon bits for an unforgettable dinner.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Rotisserie Chicken, shredded
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese, room temp
  • ½ cup Sour Cream
  • 10.5 oz Cream of Cheddar Soup
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
  • 1 Onion, chopped
  • 1 tbs Olive oll
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Chicken Bullion
  • 2-3 strips Bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 tbs Scallions, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
  • Over medium high heat, add the oil in a small skillet and sauté the bell pepper and onion in a little salt and pepper for about 5 minutes.
  • In a large bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, cream of cheddar soup, and sautéed peppers and onions.
  • Season it with chicken bullion, salt, pepper and garlic powder and mix everything together until it’s evenly combined. (You may not need to add salt if you're sensitive to it because some of the ingredients are already salty.)
  • Add the chicken mixture to an 9 x 13” baking dish and, using the back of a spoon, flatten it out so the top is level and even.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese and bacon bits on top and bake it in the oven for about 20-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are hot and bubbly.
  • Finally, let it cool slightly, garnish with scallions and serve warm. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword chicken casserole, million dollar chicken casserole

SWEDISH MEATBALLS

by 3 Comments

Tender homemade Swedish meatballs are pan-seared until golden brown, then simmered in a rich, creamy gravy that's absolutely perfect served over buttery mashed potatoes.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

swedish meatballs cover

There's just something about Swedish meatballs that feels like the ultimate comfort food. Juicy, flavorful meatballs paired with a silky, savory cream sauce create one of those dinners everyone looks forward to. Whether you're making them for Sunday dinner, a cozy weeknight meal, or serving them at a holiday gathering, they're always a hit.

Unlike frozen versions, these homemade Swedish meatballs are packed with flavor from a blend of ground beef and pork, fresh parsley, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and a rich homemade gravy. They're surprisingly easy to make and taste like something you'd order at your favorite restaurant.

Why You'll Love It

  • Ultimate Comfort Food that's cozy, hearty, and satisfying.
  • Tender, Juicy Meatballs made with a combination of beef and pork.
  • Rich Homemade Gravy that's creamy without being too heavy.
  • Perfect For Family Dinners or entertaining guests.
  • Great For meal prep since leftovers reheat beautifully.

Ingredients

Here's everything you'll need to make this delicious recipe. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements on the recipe card below.

For The Meatballs

  • Ground Beef - Adds hearty beef flavor and structure.
  • Ground Pork - Keeps the meatballs extra tender and juicy.
  • Eggs - Help bind everything together.
  • Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs - Add flavor while keeping the meatballs soft.
  • Milk - Hydrates the breadcrumbs for incredibly tender meatballs.
  • Fresh Parsley - Adds freshness and color.
  • Garlic Powder - Adds savory flavor throughout the recipe.
  • Onion- Gives the meatballs incredible falvor and moisture
  • Salt & Pepper - Essential for seasoning.

For The Gravy

  • Canola or Vegetable Oil - Used for browning the meatballs.
  • Butter - Creates the rich base for the gravy.
  • Flour - Thickens the sauce.
  • Beef Broth - Adds deep savory flavor.
  • Heavy Cream - Makes the gravy silky and luxurious.
  • Sour Cream - Adds richness and a subtle tang.
  • Worcestershire Sauce - Provides savory depth.
  • Dijon Mustard - Gives the sauce a slight tang and complexity.
  • Salt, Pepper & Garlic Powder - Finish the seasoning.

How To Make It

Heres how to make these delicious meatballs. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.

  1. In a large bowl, add the ground beef, pork, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk onion, parsley, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined. Do not over mix the meatballs. They will become dense not fluffy. Roll them into small meatballs about 2.5 inches big.
Formed swedish meatballs
  1. In a large lipped skillet, heat oil over medium high heat and add the meatballs. Working in batches, pan fry the meatballs on all sides until they are golden brown. Remove them from the pan and set them aside. Add the butter and flour to the same pan and whisk them together for about 3 minutes. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, heavy cream and sour cream. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper and garlic powder and whisk everything together until smooth.
swedish meatball sauce
  1. Add the meatballs back into the pan and cover them in sauce. Turn the heat down to low and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes. Garnish with more parsley, serve over mashed potatoes and enjoy!
finished swedish meatballs in skillet

Pro Tips

  • Don't overmix the meat mixture or the meatballs can become tough.
  • Brown the meatballs in batches so they develop a beautiful crust.
  • Let the sour cream and heavy cream come to room temperature before adding them to help prevent curdling.
  • Whisk constantly when adding the broth to keep the gravy silky smooth.
  • If the gravy gets too thick, stir in a splash of beef broth.

Variations

  • Use All Beef-Skip the pork and use two pounds of ground beef if that's what you have.
  • Make Mini Meatballs- Perfect for appetizers or serving over buttered egg noodles.
  • Add Fresh Garlic- Swap some of the garlic powder for freshly minced garlic.
  • Serve Over Noodles- Egg noodles are another classic pairing if you don't want mashed potatoes.
  • Add Mushrooms- Sauté sliced mushrooms before making the gravy for extra flavor.

What To Serve These With

These Swedish meatballs are incredible over Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes, but they're equally delicious with buttered egg noodles or steamed white rice. Round out the meal with roasted green beans, glazed carrots, roasted broccoli or a crisp green salad.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

These also freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Other Easy Meatball Recipes

Sometimes meatballs just hit the spot! I've rounded up all my best Meatball Recipes so you can find them all in one place.

ALL MY BEST MEATBALL RECIPES
swedish meatballs cover

Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Tender homemade Swedish meatballs are pan-seared until golden brown, then simmered in a rich, creamy gravy that's absolutely perfect served over buttery mashed potatoes.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, swedish

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Pound Ground Beef
  • 1 Ppound Ground Pork
  • 2 Eggs
  • 1 Cup Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs
  • ½ Cup Milk
  • ¼ Cup Fresh Parsley, chopped

For The Sauce

  • ¼-1/2 Cup Oil, canola or vegetable
  • 4 Tbs Butter
  • ¼ Cup Flour
  • 2 Cups Beef Broth
  • ½ Cup Heavy Cream (room temperature)
  • ⅓ Cup Sour Cream (room temperature)
  • 2 Tbs Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 Tbs Garlic Powder (divided)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, add the ground beef, pork, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk onion, parsley, salt, pepper and half of the garlic powder. Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined. Do not over mix the meatballs. They will become dense not fluffy.
  • Roll them into small meatballs about 2.5 inches big and set them aside.
  • In a large lipped skillet, heat a little oil over medium high heat and add the meatballs. Working in batches, pan fry the meatballs on all sides until they are golden brown. When done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
  • Add the butter and flour to the same pan that you fried the meatballs in and whisk them together for about 3 minutes.
  • slowly whisk in the beef broth, heavy cream and sour cream.
  • Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper and the rest of the garlic powder and whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
  • Add the meatballs back into the pan and cover them in sauce. Turn the heat down to low and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with more parsley, serve over mashed potatoes and enjoy!

Video

Keyword swedish meatballs

BANG BANG CHICKEN TENDERS

by Leave a Comment

Bang bang chicken tenders are crispy, homemade chicken tenders in a creamy, sweet sauce with just a little bit of heat.

Bang Bang Chicken Tenders

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These bang bang chicken tenders are so juicy and crispy and covered in the most delicious sweet and spicy sauce.

The sauce isn’t too spicy, though. It has just a little heat for the perfect amount of kick.

Everybody in my house loves these from the kids to the adults. So much so that I get request to make them often.

My little ones love chicken tenders and we wind up eating them a lot. So this is a nice way to switch things up a bit when they want to have a little something different.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s so quick and easy to make. I can have this on the table and under 20 minutes with no problem.

This is the perfect recipe for a busy weekday dinner or after school snack. Recipes like this that are quick and easy to put together are perfect for busy school days.

You can serve these chicken tenders either with the sauce right on them or on the side for dipping. Most of the time I wind up doing both.

The bang bang sauce is so incredibly good that we just can’t get enough of it around here.

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.

Bang Bang Chicken Tenders Variations

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

  • Chicken- Tenderloins or chicken breast work best for this recipe. Keep them in whole pieces or cut them into bite sized pieces if you’d like. If you’re really in a pinch, you could also just buy frozen chicken tenders and serve them with the bang bang sauce after the chicken tenders are cooked. ?
  • Spicy- Try adding some chili powder to the chicken seasoning to add some heat. A little more sriracha in the bang bang sauce would be great, too.
  • Serving- you can serve these chicken tenders plain with the bang bang sauce on the side or lightly brush the bang bang sauce on top of each piece of chicken. I actually brush the chicken with the bang bang sauce and serve some on the side for dipping also. The choice is yours.?

Other Easy Chicken Recipes

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

Bang Bang Chicken Tenders Ingredients

  • Chicken Tenderloins
  • Egg
  • Milk
  • Flour
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sweet Chili Thai Sauce
  • Sriracha
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, knorr chicken bullion, paprika
  • Canola Oil
  • Chopped chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

First, in a large bowl, mix together the egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, Knorr chicken bullion and paprika.

Now, add in the chicken tenders, mix them into the seasoned milk and let them sit for 10 minutes.

Then, add the flour to a medium sized bowl and mix in some more garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, Knorr chicken bullion and paprika.

Next, take the chicken tenders out of the milk mixture and add them to the flour. Coat them on both sides, then dip them back into the milk mixture then back into the flour.

Now, in a large lipped pan, heat the oil over medium high heat and add the chicken tenders to fry in batches.

Then, fry the chicken on both sides for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked all the way through.

Next, remove the chicken from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Now, in a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chili sauce and sriracha.

Then, brush each one of the chicken tenders on both sides with the bang bang sauce.

Finally, transfer the chicken to a serving dish and garnish with chopped chives. Serve with extra bang bang sauce on the side and enjoy!

Bang Bang Chicken Tenders

Bang bang chicken tenders are crispy, homemade chicken tenders in a creamy, sweet sauce with just a little bit of heat.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenderloins
  • 1 Egg
  • 1 cup Milk
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 tbs Garlic Powder (divided)
  • 2 tbs Onion Powder (divided)
  • 2 teaspoon Paprika (divided)
  • 2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (divided)
  • 2 tbs Knorr Chicken Bullion (divided)
  • 1.5 cups Flour
  • Canola Oil (enough to fill a large lipped frying pan withe on 1-2 inches of oil)
  • Chives, chopped for garnish

Bang Bang Sauce

  • 1 cup Mayonnaise
  • ½ cup Sweet Thai Chili Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Sriracha (add more if you want more heat)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, mix together the egg, milk, and half of the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, Knorr chicken bullion and paprika.
  • Add in the chicken tenders, mix them into the seasoned milk and let them sit for 10 minutes.
  • Add the flour to a medium sized bowl and mix in the rest of the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, Knorr chicken bullion and paprika.
  • Take the chicken tenders out of the milk mixture and add them to the flour. Coat them on both sides, then dip them back into the milk mixture then back into the flour.
  • In a large lipped pan, heat the oil over medium high heat and add the chicken tenders to fry in batches.
  • Fry the chicken on both sides for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked all the way through.
  • Remove the chicken from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chili sauce and sriracha and brush each one of the chicken tenders on both sides with the bang bang sauce.
  • Transfer the chicken to a serving dish and garnish with chopped chives. Serve with extra bang bang sauce on the side and enjoy!

Video

Keyword bang bang chicken tenders

LOADED TATER TOT CUPS

by 2 Comments

Loaded tater tot cups at the perfect, bite sized appetizer stuffed with cheddar cheeses, sour cream, bacon bits and chives.

Loaded Tater Tot Cups

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These loaded tater tot cups are the perfect, crowd pleasing appetizer.

I’ve made these for game days, holidays and countless parties. Everyone absolutely loves them.

They’re crispy on the outside and filled with melted shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon bits and chives on the inside. I just can’t get enough of them!

Feel free to get creative with the fillings, though. You can add pretty much whatever you’d like and come up with your own awesome flavor combinations, too.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s super easy to make but looks really impressive.

There’s something about the presentation of a tiny, little appetizer that is just so appealing.

These can be made in either a mini muffin or a regular muffin tin, depending on which size you prefer.

Either way, I’m sure they’re going to be the first appetizer that’s eaten at whatever event you make them for. ?

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? 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.

Loaded Tater Tot Cups Variations

I like this recipe for tater tot cups made as it is, but here are some ways to switch it up if you’d like.

  • Size- if you’d like to make these portions just a little bit larger, you can use a regular sized muffin tin pan.
  • Cheese- use any kind of cheese that you’d like. Just be sure to shred it yourself and avoid the preshredded stuff that comes in a bag. It will melt way better that way.
  • Bacon- Cook and crumble your own bacon or use precooked bacon bits.
  • Toppings- Add any kind of additional toppings that you’d like like diced jalapeños, tomatoes or onion.

Other Easy Appetizers

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

Loaded Tater Tot Cups Ingredients

  • Frozen Tater Tots
  • Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • Sour Cream
  • Bacon Bits
  • Chives, chopped

Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 400°

First, spray the mini muffin tan with cooking spray and place two tater tots into each cup and place them into the oven for 10 minutes.

Then, using your fingers or a shot glass, push the tater tots down into the mini muffin tin cups and up the sides.

Next, as the shredded cheese into each one.

Now, place them back into the oven for 5 minutes.

Then, add sour cream into the center of each cup.

Next, sprinkle them with some bacon bits and chives (optional)

Finally, let them cool slightly and carefully remove them from the mini muffin tin using a butter knife. Serve warm and enjoy!

Loaded Tater Tot Cups

Loaded tater tot cups at the perfect, bite sized appetizer stuffed with cheddar cheeses, sour cream, bacon bits and chives.
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Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • Mini Muffin Pan
  • Cooking Spray

Ingredients
  

  • 48 Frozen Tater Tots
  • ¼-1/2 cup Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • ¼ cup Sour Cream
  • 2-3 tbs Bacon Bits
  • 2-3 tbs Chives

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°
  • First, spray the mini muffin tan with cooking spray and place two tater tots into each cup and place the them into the oven for 10 minutes.
  • Then, using your fingers or a shot glass, push the tater tots down into the mini muffin tin cups and up the sides.
  • Next, as the shredded cheese into each one and place them back into the oven for another 5 minutes.
  • Once they're done, add sour cream into the center of each cup.
  • Next, sprinkle them with some bacon bits and chives (optional)
  • Finally, let them cool slightly and carefully remove them from the mini muffin tin using a butter knife. Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword loaded tater tot cups

EASY BEER CHEESE

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Easy Beer Cheese is made with light beer and a creamy, seasoned cheese sauce making it the perfect pub style appetizer for any occasion.

Easy Beer Cheese

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

I love this recipe for easy beer cheese. The sauce is so creamy, delicious and loaded with bold cheese and beer flavors.

I like ordering this when I go out to restaurants and pubs. It’s the perfect thing to snack on with friends.

Now, I’m so happy that I can make this right in the comfort of my own home and enjoy it whenever I want.

The recipe is super easy and simple to put together. ?

I’ve made this for so many parties, family get-togethers, and countless football Sundays. It’s always a huge hit among my friends and family.

If you’re a beer fan, you’re going to love this cheese dip recipe. The flavor of the beer really shines through in this dip.

So, be sure to choose a beer that you are happy to drink on its own. The darker the beer, the more bold the flavor, and vice versa.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different beer flavors and cheeses, also. There are so many variations and possibility to this recipe so don’t hesitate to take some chances on flavor combinations.

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

Easy Beer Cheese Variations

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

  • Beer- Use a light beer like Bud Light for a more mild flavor or darker beer or a richer flavor.
  • Spice- add some chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a little kick.
  • Consistency- if you like a thinner dip, add more liquid to it.
  • Cheeses- play around with the cheeses here to create different flavors. Just be sure to shred the cheese yourself. It will melt much better that way.
  • Dipping- This dip is great with pretzels, pigs in a blanket, and whatever else you can think of.

Other Easy Dip Recipes

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

Easy Beer Cheese Ingredients

  • Butter
  • Flour
  • Light Beer
  • Whole Milk
  • Cream Cheese (softened)
  • Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • Dijon Mustard
  • Garlic Powder, Salt
  • Dried Parsley Flakes, for garnish ( optional)
  • Kings Hawaiian Soft Pretzel Bites

Instructions

First, in a large skillet, over medium high heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour for about 2 minutes

Next, slowly whisk in the beer and milk.

Then, whisk it over medium heat for about 2 minutes or until it starts to thicken up.

Now, add it the cream cheese, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper and whisk until smooth.

Next, take the skillet off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until its melted and well combined.

Finally, add parsley for garnish (optional) and serve warm and with Pretzel Bites for dipping. Enjoy!

Easy Beer Cheese

Easy Beer Cheese is made with light beer and a creamy, seasoned cheese sauce making it the perfect pub style appetizer for any occasion.
No ratings yet
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Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbs Butter
  • 2 tbs Flour
  • ¾ cup Light Beer
  • ¼ cup Whole Milk
  • 2 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • Dried Parsley Flakes, for garnish ( optional)
  • Kings Hawaiian Soft Pretzel Bites

Instructions
 

  • First, in a large skillet over medium high heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour for 2 miutes.
  • Next, slowly whisk in the beer and milk and continue whisking for about 2 minutes or until it starts to thicken up.
  • Now, add it the cream cheese, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper and whisk until smooth.
  • Next, take the skillet off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and well combined..
  • Finally, add parsley for garnish (optional) and serve warm and with Pretzel Bites for dipping. Enjoy!
Keyword easy beer cheese

TACO MAC AND CHEESE

by 2 Comments

Taco mac and cheese combines all of the delicious flavors of tacos and macaroni and cheese into one delicious, crowd pleasing dinner.

Taco Mac And Cheese

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

My family goes absolutely crazy for this taco mac and cheese recipe.

Anybody that loves tacos and macaroni and cheese will love this recipe too. It’s like the best of both worlds in one dish.

Comfort food recipes like this one are always a huge hit in my house, especially when the cooler weather starts to roll in.

Sometimes you just need a real stick to your ribs dinner that keeps you full and warm for hours. Comfort food and cold weather just go together hand-in-hand.

The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You can throw this together in no time and have it on the table in less than 30 minutes.

This recipe is perfect for a busy weekday dinner and sure to make its way onto your menu rotation.

You really can’t go wrong wing a delicious and easy one pot dinner like this one.

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.

Taco Mac And Cheese Variations

I like this recipe made just how it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you’d like to.

  • Pasta- Try any kind of small tube like pasta formers recipe. It all works.
  • Meat- Ground turkey and chicken are both good substitutions for the ground beef.
  • Cheese- Use any kind of shredded cheese that you’d like for this recipe. Just be sure to shred the cheese yourself and avoid the preshredded stuff that comes in a bag. It will melt much better that way.
  • Velveeta- Unfortunately, there really is no substitute for the Velveeta. I know many people don’t love to use it. If that’s the case, omit it completely and just add some extra shredded cheese.
  • Spicy- If you’d like to add some heat, try using a hot can of rotel and spicy cheese like pepper jack. They make spicy taco seasoning packets, too.
  • Toppings- Serve this with a little sour cream, diced jalapenos, sliced olives or whatever else you’d like on top.

Other Easy Pasta Dishes

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

Taco Mac And Cheese Ingredients

  • Ground Beef
  • Onion, chopped
  • Olive oil
  • Rotel
  • Taco Seasoning Packets
  • Beef Broth
  • Whole Milk
  • Velveeta, cubed
  • Medium Pasta Shells
  • Monetary Jack Cheese, shredded
  • Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • Parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

First, in a large lipped skillet, sauté the onion in a little oil for about 2 minutes then add the ground beef. Using a wooden spoon, break the beef down into small pieces as it browns.

Now, make the ground beef according to the directions on the back of the taco seasoning packet BUT use two packets instead of the recommended one for more flavor.

Next, add the can of Rotel, beef broth, and milk.

Then, stir everything together and add the uncooked pasta.

Next, move the pasta around so it’s even and mostly submerged.

Now, place a lid on top of the skillet and let the pasta simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked, stirring half way through.

Then, turn off the heat and stir in the velveeta until it’s completely melted into the pasta.

Next, stir in the shredded cheeses until they are evenly combined into the pasta also.

Finally, let the pasta cool slightly, garnish with parsley (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy!

Taco Mac And Cheese

Taco mac and cheese combines all of the delicious flavors of tacos and macaroni and cheese into one delicious, crowd pleasing dinner.
No ratings yet
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ground Beef
  • 1 small Onion, chopped
  • 2 tbs Olive Oil
  • 10 oz Rotel
  • 2 oz Taco Seasoning (2 packets)
  • ¾ cup Beef Broth
  • 2 cups Whole Milk
  • 4 oz Velveeta, cubed
  • 1 box Medium Pasta Shells
  • ½ cup Monetary Jack Cheese, shredded
  • ½ Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • Parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large lipped skillet, sauté the onion in oil for about 2 minutes then add the ground beef. Using a wooden spoon, break the beef down into small pieces as iit browns.
  • Make the ground beef according to the directions on the back of the taco seasoning packet BUT use two packets instead of the recommended one for more flavor.
  • Add the can of Rotel, beef broth, and milk. Stir everything together and add the uncooked pasta.
  • Move the pasta around so it’s even and mostly submerged. Place a lid on top of the skillet and let the pasta simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked, stirring half way through.
  • Turn off the heat and stir in the velveeta until it’s completely melted into the pasta.
  • Stir in the shredded cheeses until they are evenly combined into the pasta also.
  • Finally, let the pasta cool slightly, garnish with parsley (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword taco mac and cheese

CHEESY BEEF NOODLE CASSEROLE

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Cheesy beef noodle casserole is made with seasoned ground beef in a flavorful tomato sauce tossed in egg noodles and baked with a cheddar cheese topping.

Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Cheesy beef noodle casserole is such a great comfort food meal.

My family loves when I make this on cool fall and winter nights especially.

There’s just something about a nice big bowl of cheesy, beefy egg noodles that really hits the spot.

Even my two picky little boys love this easy to make recipe.

The ingredients are simple and I usually have most of them on hand in my pantry.

Delicious, no fuss recipes like this one always get a permanent spot on my dinner menu rotation.

Plus, I love how many servings this recipe makes. We almost always have leftovers to enjoy for a day or two after.

It’s the perfect meal to throw together on a busy weeknight for my family.

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.

Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole 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.

  • Meat- ground chicken or turkey can be used as a substitution for the beef.
  • Pasta- Penne, bow tie or any pasta that’s not thin and long like spaghetti can be substituted for the egg noodles.
  • Cheese- Make this dish extra cheesy by stirring some into the beef and noodles along with adding some to the top. The choice of cheese is yours. So choose whatever you’d like. Just be sure to shred it yourself and avoid the preshredded stuff that comes in a bag. It will melt way better that way.

Other Easy Egg Noodle Recipes

If you like easy to make recipes using egg noodles like this one, here are some others that I know you’ll love, too.

Cheesy Beef Noodles Ingredients

  • Egg Noodles
  • Olive Oil
  • Ground Beef
  • Onion, minced
  • Garlic, chopped
  • Tomato Sauce
  • Diced Tomatoes (drained)
  • Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Salt, Pepper Italian Seasoning and Garlic Powder
  • Cooking Spray
  • Dried Parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic for 2 minutes and add the ground beef.

Now, season the beef with salt, pepper and garlic powder and break it down into small pieces as it cooks. Drain the fat if necessary.

Next, add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.

Then, season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Italian seasoning and stir everything together until it’s evenly combined and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Now, add the cooked egg noodles into the skillet and toss them into the sauce.

Next, add the beef and noodle mixture to a 9 x 13” baking dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray.

Then, top with shredded cheese and place it in the oven, uncovered, for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

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

Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole

Cheesy beef noodle casserole is made with seasoned ground beef in a flavorful tomato sauce tossed in egg noodles and baked with a cheddar cheese topping.
No ratings yet
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Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 12 bag Egg Noodles
  • 2 tbs Olive Oil
  • 1.5 pounds Ground Beef
  • 1 small Onion, minced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, chopped
  • 2.5 cups Tomato Sauce
  • 15 oz can Diced Tomatoes, drained
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 tbs Garlic Powder (divided)
  • 1-2 tbs Italian Seasoning
  • Dried Parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic for 2 minutes and add the ground beef.
  • Season the beef with salt, pepper and half of the garlic powder and break it down into small pieces as it cooks. Drain the fat if necessary.
  • Next, add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce and season it with salt, pepper, the rest of the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Add the cooked egg noodles into the skillet and toss them into the sauce. Place the mixture to a 9 x 13” baking dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
  • Then, top with shredded cheese and place it in the oven, uncovered, for about 20-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
  • Finally, let it cool slightly, garnish with parsley (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword cheesy beef noodle casserole

GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN THIGHS

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Garlic butter chicken thighs are perfectly seasoned pieces of chicken baked in butter and garlic with crispy skin and tons of flavor.

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These garlic butter chicken thighs are one of my families favorite meals.

We like to serve them with any kind of vegetable and big scoop of Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes.

They’re such a delicious, no fuss recipe. Perfect for busy weekday dinners.

The chicken is so juicy and tender and the skin is flavorful and crispy. Sometimes a good piece of chicken just really hits the spot.

The ingredients are simple and this recipe is so easy to put together.

Recipes that my family loves amd take little effort on my part are my absolute favorite.

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

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs 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.

  • Chicken- bone in, skin on chicken thighs will give you the best flavor for this recipe but chicken breast, legs and skinless, boneless thighs will work, too. Just adjust cooking times to make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°.
  • Baking- If you don’t have an oven safe skillet, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and continue cooking it in that.
  • Spicy- Add some hot pepper flakes to the butter and garlic to give the chicken a little kick.

Other Easy Chicken Recipes

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

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Ingredients

  • Chicken Thighs- bone in, skin on
  • Butter
  • Garlic, minced
  • Parsley, chopped
  • Olive Oil
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, paprika, Chicken Bullion.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°

First, pat the chicken thighs dry using a paper towel and add them to a large bowl and add the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika and chicken bullion.

Now, mix everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the seasoning and let that marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Then, heat a cast iron skillet (or an oven safe pan) over medium high heat, and add the chicken thighs skin side down.

Now, sear the chicken thighs on both sides for about 5 minutes or until the skin is brown and crispy.

Next, arrange the chicken skin side up and turn off the heat. Add the butter, garlic and parsley to the center and let the butter melt.

Now, spoon some garlic butter over the chicken thighs and place the skillet into the oven for about 15 minutes.

Next, spoon some more garlic butter over the top of the chicken and place it back into the oven to continue cooking for another 15 minutes.

Finally, let the chicken cool slightly, transfer to a serving dish and garnish with parsley (optional). Serve warm and enjoy!

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Garlic butter chicken thighs are perfectly seasoned pieces of chicken baked in butter and garlic with crispy skin and tons of flavor.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • cast iron skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 4-6 Chicken Thighs- bone in, skin on
  • 2 tbs Olive Oil
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 tbs Chicken Bullion
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 stick Butter
  • 4 cloves Garlic, chopped
  • Parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°
  • First, pat the chicken thighs dry using a paper towel and add them to a large bowl and add the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika and chicken bullion.
  • Now, mix everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the seasoning and let that marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  • Then, heat a cast iron skillet (or an oven safe pan) over medium high heat, and add the chicken thighs skin side down.
  • Now, sear the chicken thighs on both sides for about 5 minutes or until the skin is brown and crispy.
  • Next, arrange the chicken skin side up and turn off the heat. Add the butter, garlic and parsley to the center and let the butter melt.
  • Now, spoon some garlic butter over the chicken thighs and place the skillet into the oven for about 15 minutes.
  • Next, spoon some more garlic butter over the top of the chicken and place it back into the oven to continue cooking for another 15 minutes.
  • Finally, let the chicken cool slightly, transfer to a serving dish and garnish with parsley (optional). Serve warm and enjoy!

Video

Keyword chicken thighs, garlic butter chicken thighs

CANNOLI POKE CAKE

by 11 Comments

Easy to make cannoli poke cake tastes just like the traditional Italian dessert but with sweet cake and cannoli cream frosting.

Cannoli Poke Cake

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This cannoli poke cake stopped me dead in my tracks when I saw it pop up on my social media.

My friend and fellow food content creator Melissa from @MelissaJoRealRecipes posted this incredibly delicious cannoli cake and I knew I had to make it.

It looked so unbelievably delicious and easy to make, too.

My family loves cannoli. We usually only eat them for holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving.

I’m not sure why we reserve them almost always for holidays but in some way, I think it keeps them as an extra special treat.

Now that I have this recipe, we can enjoy the great taste of cannoli whenever we want.

It just seems less formal and way more fun! How awesome is that?

My family absolutely loved this one. My kids rated this a 10/10 and I have to say that I completely agree with them.

Melissa knocked this one right out of the ballpark. It’s a keeper for sure.

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.

Cannoli Poke Cake Variations

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

  • Cake Mix- If you can’t find the French Vanilla cake mix, vanilla would be ok to substitute
  • Mascarpone- mascarpone cheese adds some flavor to this dessert but cream cheese is ok to substitute.
  • Topping- Crushed cannoli shells would be fantastic as a topping instead of crushed waffle cones. If you can find them, use them.

Other Easy Cake Recipes

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

Cannoli Cake Ingredients

  • French Vanilla Cake Mix
  • Butter, melted
  • Milk
  • Cinnamon
  • Eggs
  • Sweet Condensed Milk
  • Cocoa Powder
  • Mini Chocolate Chips
  • Waffle Cones, crushed

For The Frosting

  • Butter, softened
  • Mascarpone Cheese
  • Ricotta Cheese
  • Vanilla
  • Heavy Cream
  • Powdered Sugar

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, in a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, melted butter, milk, cinnamon and eggs using a hand mixer.

Now, place the batter into a 9 x 13” greased baking dish.

Next, smooth the batter out so that it’s flat and even then place it in the oven for 25 minutes.

Once the cake is done, using the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes in the cake about a half an inch apart.

Then, in a small bowl, whisk together the sweet condensed milk and cocoa powder and pour the mixture evenly over the cake and into the holes.

Next, sprinkle the top with mini chocolate chips and place it into the refrigerator to set and cool for a couple of hours.

To prepare the frosting, beat together the softened butter, mascarpone, ricotta and vanilla.

Now, mix in the heavy cream.

Then, slowly add in the powdered sugar while mixing everything together.

Next, add the whipped frosting to the top of the cake and smooth it out so that it’s flat and even.

Finally, add more mini chocolate chips and the crushed waffle cones to the top. Serve and enjoy!

Cannoli Poke Cake

Easy to make cannoli poke cake tastes just like the traditional Italian dessert but with sweet cake and cannoli cream frosting.
4 from 2 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box French Vanilla Cake Mix
  • 1 stick Butter, melted
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 3 Eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 14 oz can Sweet Condensed Milk
  • 1 teaspoon Cocoa Powder
  • 1 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (divided)
  • 2 Waffle Cones, crushed

Whipped Frosting

  • 1 stick Butter, softened
  • 8 oz Mascarpone Cheese
  • ½ cup Ricotta Cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, melted butter, milk, cinnamon and eggs using a hand mixer and place the batter into a 9 x 13” greased baking dish.
  • Smooth the batter out so that it’s flat and even then place it in the oven for 25 minutes.
  • Once the cake is done, using the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes in the cake about a half an inch apart.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet condensed milk and cocoa powder and pour the mixture evenly over the cake and into the holes.
  • Sprinkle the top with half of the mini chocolate chips and place it into the refrigerator to set and cool for a couple of hours.
  • To prepare the frosting, beat together the softened butter, mascarpone, ricotta and vanilla then mix in the heavy cream.
  • Slowly add in the powdered sugar while mixing everything together.
  • Add the whipped frosting to the top of the cake and smooth it out so that it’s flat and even.
  • Finally, add the rest of the mini chocolate chips and the crushed waffle cones to the top. Serve and enjoy!

Video

Keyword cannoli cake, cannoli poke cake

CROCKPOT MISSISSIPPI POT ROAST

by 1 Comment

Made with just a few simple ingredients like chuck roast, gravy and ranch packets, butter and pepperoncinis, this easy crockpot Mississippi pot roast is a dinner the whole family will love.

Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Crockpot Mississippi pot roast is a dinner that the whole family will love.

Truth be told I’m not really a huge fan of crockpot recipes in general. So the recipes that I share using one are those rare gems that I really enjoy.

The pot roast turns out so juicy and flavorful every time and it couldn’t be more simple to make.

I love that I can throw everything in the crockpot and have dinner completely ready in eight hours.

It’s the perfect dinner recipe for a busy weeknight when I don’t have time to sit and babysit the stove.

Crockpots really are so awesome in that way. They can be such huge timesavers.

So when I find a recipe that I find really works well in one, it makes me so happy.

This recipe is delicious over some sour cream mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. They’re all fantastic choices.

We’ve eaten it with so many different things and it’s always a huge hit. Even my picky kids love this one.

I especially like making this recipe in the fall and winter months when the cold weather starts rolling in.

When a nice, hearty dinner like this one really hits the spot.

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.

Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast Variations

I like this recipe made as it is, but here are some ways to switch it up if you’d like to.

  • Cook Time- 4-6 hours on high instead of 8 on low would work.
  • Gravy- If you can’t find the Au Jus packet, a dry brown gravy packet would do.
  • Serving- Serve this roast over mashed potatoes, egg noodles or rice.

Other Easy Dinner Ideas

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

Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast Ingredients

  • Chuck Roast
  • Au Jus Gravy Packet
  • Ranch Packet
  • Butter
  • Pepperoncini RIngs
  • Pepperoncini Juice

Instructions

First, add the chuck roast to the bottom of the crockpot.

Then, cover the roast with the Au Jus gravy packet.

Now, sprinkle the ranch packet on top of the gravy.

Next, place the butter on top.

Now, place the pepperoncini peppers on top.

Then, pour the pepperoncini pepper juice from the jar around the roast.

Now, set the crockpot to 8 hours low.

Finally, shred the meat in the crockpot and serve over Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes and enjoy!

Crockpot Mississippi Pot Roast

Made with just a few simple ingredients like chuck roast, gravy and ranch packets, butter and pepperoncinis, this easy crockpot Mississippi pot roast is a dinner the whole family will love.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • Crockpot

Ingredients
  

  • 2-3 pound Chuck Roast
  • 1 oz Au Jus Gravy Packet
  • 1 oz Ranch Packet
  • 1 stick Butter, unsalted
  • ¼ cup Pepperoncini Rings
  • ¼ cup Pepperoncini Juice

Instructions
 

  • Add the chuck roast to the bottom of the crockpot.
  • Cover the roast with the Au Jus gravy packet and ranch packet.
  • Place the butter and pepperocini rings on top.
  • Pour the pepperoncini pepper juice from the jar around the roast.
  • Set the crockpot to 8 hours low.
  • Shred the meat in the crockpot and serve over Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes and enjoy!
Keyword corckpot mississippi pot roast

BLT DIP

by Leave a Comment

Creamy BLT dip is topped with crisp shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and lots of crumbled bacon for the ultimate crowd pleasing appetizer.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

If you like the classic sandwich, then you're going to love this BLT dip. Its like a taste of the whole thing in every scoop. The smokey bacon, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce and creamy base all come together to create the most irresistible appetizer. This is the kind of appetizer that practically disappears right in front of your eyes at parties, game days or casual get togethers.

What makes this dip so good is the balance and contract between the smooth, creamy base and crunchy and cool topping. It comes together with simple ingredients and can be prepared super quickly. Its the perfect dip for entertaining. Give it a try and I promise, you'll be hooked.

  • Toppings- add whatever extra toppings you’d like such as shredded cheese, green onions or olives.
  • Tomatoes- Cherry tomatoes can be halved and used for this recipe but I prefer the look of diced tomatoes. Choose whatever you like best.
  • Chips- any kind of chip would do here but I personally love the bagel chips for this one. It gives it more of a “real” BLT taste if you ask me.

Ingredients

Heres everything you'll need to make this delicious dip. You can find the the full recipe along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.

Instructions

Heres how to make this delicious appetizer. You can find the full ingredients along with instructions on the recipe card below.

In a large bowl, stir together the sour cream, whipped cream cheese, mayo, ranch packet, garlic powder, black pepper and ¼ cup of the bacon bits.

Add the mixture to an 8 x 8" serving dish and smooth it out until the mixture is flat and even. Evenly spread lettuce out on top followed by the diced tomatoes and crumbled bacon.

PRO TIP: Seed and drain the tomatoes to avoid a watery dip.

Serve with bagel or pita chips and enjoy! I love Stacys Bagel Chips for this.

Can I Make This Dip Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you make this dip ahead of time for sure. Just prepare the creamy base but wait to add the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and bacon bits until you're ready to serve.

What Can I Serve This With?

This dip is perfect to serve with bagel chips, pita chips, crackers, toasted bread or veggies. I personally love it with almost any flavor of Stacys Bagel Chips.

Can I Use Regular Cream Cheese Instead Of Whipped?

Yes, you can use regular cream cheese just be sure to soften it first so the dip will be spreadable.

Can I Use Bacon Bits Instead Of Crumbled Bacon?

Cooked and crumbled bacon has a much better flavor and texture for this dip. It honestly looks more appealing, too. Bacon bits will work in a pinch, though.

Storage

Place the dip into an air tight container and it will last in the fridge for up to three days.

BLT Dip Recipe

Creamy BLT dip is topped with crisp shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and lots of crumbled bacon for the ultimate crowd pleasing appetizer.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Cup Bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 16 Oz Sour Cream
  • 4 Oz Whipped Cream Cheese
  • ½ Cup Mayonnaise
  • ½-1 Cup Iceberg Lettuce, shredded
  • 2-3 Tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 Oz Ranch Dip Mix Packet
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 Tbs Garlic Powder

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, stir together the sour cream, whipped cream cheese, mayo, ranch packet, garlic powder, black pepper and ¼ cup of the bacon bits.
  • Add the mixture to an 8 x 8" serving dish and smooth it out until the mixture is flat and even. Evenly spread lettuce out on top followed by the diced tomatoes and crumbled bacon.
  • Serve with bagel or pita chips and enjoy!

Video

Keyword blt dip

CHEESY SCALLOPED POTATOES

by 1 Comment

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food side dish made with thinly sliced and seasoned potatoes baked in a cheesy cream sauce.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These cheesy scalloped potatoes really are such a classic side dish.

They’re one of those staple dishes that have a permanent spot on the party menu. It just wouldn’t be the holidays without them.

I’ve made this exact recipe for almost every Thanksgiving and Christmas for as far back as I can remember.

They’re so incredibly delicious and easy to make, too. Once I find a good thing, I don’t feel the need to mess with it.

This has been my “go to” recipe for what seems like forever and I hope it becomes yours, too.

My family and friends absolutely love these from the kids to adults. They’re one of the first side dishes to go, always.

They don’t need to be saved for the holidays, though. I’ve made these for many family dinners at home, too.

This recipe is fantastic because it can be served with practically any main course you choose.

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.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Variations

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

  • Potatoes- Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are two great choices for this recipe.
  • Slicing- use a mandolin to get thin, even slices if you can. The thinner the better but a knife will absolutely work, too.
  • Seasoning- Add some thyme, rosemary or herbs of your choice to add another layer of flavor.
  • Cheese- try a combination of any of your favorite cheeses for this one. Just be sure to shred the cheese yourself and avoid the preshredded stuff that comes in a bag. It will melt way better that way.

Other Easy Potato Side Dishes

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

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients

  • Russet or Yukon potatoes, sliced thin
  • Butter
  • Garlic, minced
  • Heavy Cream
  • Parmesan Cheese
  • White Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, melt the butter in a medium sized sauce pan over medium high heat and add the chopped garlic.

Next, stir until fragrant (about one minute) and add in the heavy cream.

Now, season the cream and butter with salt, pepper and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and stir it all together over medium low heat.

Then, layer the bottom of a greased baking dish with half of the thinly sliced potatoes. It’s fine to overlap them.

Now, sprinkle them with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Next, pour over half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.

Then, sprinkle the potatoes with half of the Parmesan cheese and half of the shredded cheddar.

Now, layer the rest of the sliced potatoes on top.

Next, season them with salt, pepper and garlic powder, pour the rest of the cream mixture on top and add the remaining cheeses.

Now, cover the potatoes with tin foil and place it in the oven for 40 minutes.

Next, remove the foil and place it back into the oven for another 30 minutes.

Finally, let the potatoes cool for 10 minutes, sprinkle with parsley (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy!

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food side dish made with thinly sliced and seasoned potatoes baked in a cheesy cream sauce.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 pounds Russet or Yukon potatoes, sliced thin
  • 1 tbs Butter
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese
  • 2 cups White Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 2 tbs Garlic Powder

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • Melt the butter in a medium sized sauce pan over medium high heat and add the chopped garlic. Stir until fragrant (about one minute) and add in the heavy cream.
  • Season the cream and butter with salt, pepper and 1 tbs of garlic powder and stir it all together over medium low heat.
  • Layer the bottom of a greased baking dish with half of the thinly sliced potatoes. It’s fine to overlap them.
  • Now, sprinkle them with salt, pepper and ½ tbs of garlic powder. Pour over half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
  • Sprinkle the potatoes with half of the Parmesan cheese and half of the shredded cheddar.
  • Layer the rest of the sliced potatoes on top. Season them with salt, pepper and the rest of the garlic powder, pour the remaining ream mixture on top and add the rest of the cheeses.
  • Cover the potatoes with tin foil and place it in the oven for 40 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and place it back into the oven for another 30 minutes.
  • Finally, let the potatoes cool for 10 minutes, sprinkle with parsley (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword cheesy scalloped potatoes, scalloped potatoes

FRIED CHICKEN TACOS

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These easy to make chicken tacos are made with shredded rotisserie chicken, salsa, cheddar cheese and taco seasoning then filled into flour tortillas and fried until golden brown and crispy.

Fried Chicken Tacos

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These crispy fried chicken tacos are a family favorite around here.

Everyone in my house just absolutely loves them. Myself included.

They’re beyond easy to make and perfect for a busy weekday dinner.

I’ve made these for many after school snacks and lunches, too. They’ve even made an appearance or two at our big game watching parties.

The small tortillas are the perfect grab and go appetizer. Finger food at any party is the best!

Most of the ingredients are pantry staples that I keep on hand. Making them super easy to throw them together in a hurry.

Tacos are one of these recipes that everyone loves from the adults to the kids. They’re a great dinner choice when you need to serve a crowd.

They’re sure to be a hit. Not just in my house, but no matter where you serve them or for what occasion.

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 dinner. 

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

Fried Chicken Tacos Variations

I like these chicken tacos made just the way they are, but here are some ways to change it up if you’d like to.

  • Chicken- Instead of shedded rotisserie chicken, any cooked and cubed chicken would work for this recipe.
  • Tortillas- Corn or Flour tortillas are both ok to use.
  • Air Fryer- These tacos can be made in the air fryer, too. Just brush them with a little olive oil and pop them into a 400° air fryer for about 8 minutes total- flipping half way.
  • Cheese- Use whatever kind of cheese you’d prefer. Just be sure to shred it yourself and avoid the preshredded stuff that comes in a bag. It will melt way better that way.
  • Spicy- To add some heat to these tacos, try adding a hot and spicy taco packet, adding diced green chilis or use a cheese with a little kick to it like pepper jack.

Other Easy Tex Mex Recipes

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

Fried Chicken Tacos Ingredients

  • Small Flour Tortillas
  • Vegetable Oil
  • Shredded Rotisserie Chicken
  • Salsa
  • Taco Seasoning Packet
  • Black Pepper
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  • Sour Cream & Salsa Verde for garnish/ dipping (optional)

Instructions

First, in a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, salsa, taco seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Now, stir everything together until it’s evenly combined.

Then, divide the filling into the tortillas and firmly fold them in half.

Next, heat enough oil in large lipped frying pan (that will cover the bottom up to one inch high) over medium high heat.

Then, once the oil is hot, carefully add the tacos, in batches, and fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and crispy on both sides.

Now, let them drain on either a wire rack or paper towels.

Finally, garnish/ serve with sour cream and salsa verde. Serve warm and enjoy!

Fried Chicken Tacos

These easy to make chicken tacos are made with shredded rotisserie chicken, salsa, cheddar cheese and taco seasoning then filled into flour tortillas and fried until golden brown and crispy.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American, Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 6-8 small Flour Tortillas
  • 1 Rotisserie Chicken, cooked and shredded
  • ½ cup Salsa
  • 1 oz Taco Seasoning
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
  • Vegetable Oil
  • Sour Cream and Salsa Verde for ganrish/dipping

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, salsa, taco seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined.
  • Divide the filling into the tortillas and firmly fold them in half.
  • Heat enough oil in large lipped frying pan (that will cover the bottom up to one inch high) over medium high heat
  • Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tacos, in batches, and fry them for about 1-2 minutes on eah side or until they’re golden brown and crispy on both sides.
  • Let them drain on either a wire rack or paper towels
  • Garnish/ serve with sour cream and salsa verde. Serve warm and enjoy!

Video

Keyword fried chicken tacos

TIRAMISU POKE CAKE

by 3 Comments

Tiramisu poke cake is a no fuss recipe with all the delicious flavors of the tradition Italian dessert that requires much less work.

Tiramisu Poke Cake

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

Tiramisu poke cake is an absolutely incredible dessert that’s fun and easy to make.

Poke cakes are always a great choices for dessert. Especially when there’s a crowd to feed.

The ingredients are generally simple and they could not be easier to put together.

This tiramisu one is no exception. It requires very little effort on my part.

Traditional tiramisu is one of my favorite Italian desserts. Everytime I see it on a dessert menu, I have to order it.

Making it at home requires a lot of work. It’s a labor of love for sure.

If I have the time that’s no problem but as a bust Mom of two, I often don’t.

This cake recipe is a lifesaver in those moments where I’m craving this dessert but need to make it in half the time.

This recipe is alway a huge hit when I make it for my friends and family. Everyone just loves it.

This is even a dessert that I’ve served on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, too.

I hope you give this one 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 dinner. 

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

Tiramisu Poke Cake Variations

I like this cake recipe made just reheated way it is, but here are some ways to change it up if you’d like to.

  • Cake Mix- French Vanilla Cake Mix can be substituted for white cake mix if needed.
  • Coffee- 6oz of water mixed with espresso powder or cold brew coffee are both ok to use.
  • Mascarpone- if you can’t find this kind of cheese, cream cheese will work, too.
  • Topping- A light dusting of cocoa powder on top would be great instead of the chocolate bar shavings.

Other East Cake Desserts

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

Tiramisu Poke Cake Ingredients

  • White Cake Mix
  • Water
  • Vegetable Oil
  • Eggs
  • Cold Brew Coffee
  • Sweet Condensed Milk
  • Vanilla Frosting
  • Mascarpone Cheese
  • Chocolate Shavings

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, in a large bowl, add the white cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs and water.

Now, using a hand mixer, beat the cake mix together for about 2 minutes.

Then, place the cake batter in a 9 x 13” baking dish and smooth it out until it’s flat and even.

Next, bake it in the oven for about 25 minutes.

Once the cake is done, using the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes into the cake around 1 inch apart.

Now, in a medium sized bowl, mix together the sweet condensed milk and cold brew coffee.

Then, pour the mixture over the cake evenly and let it seep into the holes.

Next, place it into the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Now, in a medium sized bowl, whip the Mascarpone Cheese for about 3 minutes or until it starts to fluff up.

Then, mix in the vanilla frosting.

Next, add the frosting to the cake and spread it out evenly.

Finally, add the chocolate bar shavings to the top and serve cold. Enjoy!

Tiramisu Poke Cake

Tiramisu poke cake is a no fuss recipe with all the delicious flavors of the tradition Italian dessert that requires much less work.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 14.5 ounce White Cake Mix
  • 1 cup Water
  • ½ cup Vegetable Oil
  • 3 eggs Eggs
  • 1 cup Cold Brew Coffee
  • 14 ounce Sweet Condensed Milk
  • 12 ounce Vanilla Frosting
  • 8 ounce Mascarpone Cheese
  • Chocolate Bar Shavings

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • In a large bowl, add the white cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs and water. Using a hand mixer, beat the cake mix together for about 2 minutes.
  • Place the cake batter in a 9 x 13” baking dish and smooth it out until it’s flat and even. Bake it in the oven for about 25 minutes.
  • Once the cake is done, using the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes into the cake around 1 inch apart.
  • In a medium sized bowl, mix together the sweet condensed milk and cold brew coffee. Pour the mixture over the cake evenly and let it seep into the holes.
  • Place it into the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  • In a medium sized bowl, whip the Mascarpone Cheese for about 3 minutes or until it starts to fluff up. Then, mix in the vanilla frosting.
  • Add the frosting to the cake and spread it out evenly. Add the chocolate bar shavings to the top and serve cold. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword tiramisu poke cake

BEEF AND BROCCOLI

by Leave a Comment

This beef and broccoli is just like the takeout version but made fresh at home with thin slices of seasoned beef and broccoli in a flavorful sauce.

Beef And Broccoli

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

We order beef and broccoli from Chinese takeout a lot at my house.

My husband and I both love it and it’s almost always included in our order.

I was so happy when a friend of mine gave me this recipe years ago. It was so easy to make I almost couldn’t even believe it.

This dish was always something that I assumed was difficult to make and I’m exactly not sure why.

Maybe because I’m so used to making Italian and American food that the thought of trying to replicate a Chinese dish was intimidating to me.

Now I know that there was absolutely no good reason for my hesitation.

This is my go to recipe on days that we just don’t feel like ordering out. Which has become quite often in the past couple of years for one reason or another.

It’s great to have this recipe in my back pocket now. Even my kids, who are usually big chicken teriyaki fans, have really grown to enjoy it, 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 that I have a cookbook called Fast Simple Delicious? It’s 60 no fuss no fail comfort food recipes perfect for busy weekday dinner. 

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

Beef And Broccoli 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.

  • Beef- thinly sliced flank steak or top sirloin would work as a substitution for the skirt steak.
  • Broccoli- Fresh broccoli steamed in a little water or frozen broccoli florets in bags that can steam in the microwave are both ok to use for this recipe.
  • Sauce- Make the sauce thicker by adding more corn starch to it.
  • Serving- Serve this alone or over white or fried rice.

Other Easy Beef Dinner Ideas

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

Beef And Broccoli Ingredients

  • Skirt Steak, sliced thin
  • Soy Sauce
  • Vegetable Oil
  • Corn Starch
  • Beef Broth
  • Rice Wine Vinegar
  • Brown Sugar
  • Broccoli Head, sliced into florets and steamed
  • Ground Ginger
  • Garlic, minced
  • Black Pepper

Instructions

First, in a large bowl, add the sliced skirt steak, 1 tbs of soy sauce, and 1 tbs of corn starch.

Now, mix everything together until it’s evenly combined and let the steak marinate on the counter for 10–15 minutes.

Then, add 1 tbs of vegetable oil to a large skillet over medium high heat and add the steak.

Next, cook the steak for about 5 minutes total stirring frequently and add in the minced garlic and ginger.

Now, stir in the steamed broccoli and let everything cook together for about 3 minutes

Meanwhile, in a medium sized bowl, stir together the beef stock, rice wine vinegar, 3 tbs soy sauce, brown sugar and 1 tbs of corn starch.

Now, add the sauce to the beef and broccoli and toss everything together until it’s evenly coated.

Finally, let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken up. Let it cool slightly and serve warm over white rice. Enjoy!

Beef And Broccoli

This beef and broccoli is just like the takeout version but made fresh at home with thin slices of seasoned beef and broccoli in a flavorful sauce.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Chinese

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Skirt Steak, sliced thin
  • 1 tbs Soy Sauce
  • 1 tbs Corn Starch
  • 1 tbs Vegetable Oil
  • 1 large head Broccoli, cut into florets and steamed
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced

For The Sauce

  • ½ cup Beef Broth
  • 1 tbs Rice Wine Vinegar
  • 3 tbs Soy Sauce
  • 2 tbs Brown Sugar
  • 1 tbs Corn Starch

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, add the sliced skirt steak, 1 tbs of soy sauce, and 1 tbs of corn starch. Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined and let the steak marinate on the counter for 10–15 minutes.
  • Add 1 tbs of vegetable oil to a large skillet over medium high heat and add the steak. Cook the steak for about 5 minutes total stirring frequently and add in the minced garlic and ginger.
  • Stir in the steamed broccoli and let everything cook together for about 3 minutes
  • Meanwhile, in a medium sized bowl, stir together all of the sauce ingredients.
  • Add the sauce to the beef and broccoli and toss everything together until it’s evenly coated.
  • Finally, let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken up. Let it cool slightly and serve warm over white rice. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword beef and broccoli

SPINACH AND CHEESE MANICOTTI

by 1 Comment

Spinach and cheese manicotti is make with a blend of seasoned cheese and spinach stuffed inside manicotti pasta and baked in a flavorful tomato sauce for a dinner the whole family will love.

Spinach And Cheese Maniccoti

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

This spinach and cheese manicotti recipe takes me right back to my childhood.

My Italian grandmother used to make these for every major holiday and family party since as far back as I can remember.

I used to be so exited for her to host Thanksgiving and Christmas just so I could eat these. They were my favorite thing in the world.

Now, when I’m in the mood for some good Italian comfort food, I always make these.

The recipe is quick, easy and absolutely delicious. My whole family, including my two picky kids, even love this one.

Pasta stuffed with a seasoned blend of cheese and spinach baked in a flavorful tomato sauce until hot and bubbly is something that very few people could turn down.

Another reason what this recipe is great for the holidays or any party. It’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

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 dinner.

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

Spinach And Cheese Manicotti Variations

I like this recipe for manicotti made just the way it is but here are some ways to change it up if you’d like to.

  • Pasta- use jumbo shells instead of manicotti if you’d like.
  • Sauce- Any homemade tomato sauce recipe would be great here. If you need one, check mine out HERE. Jarred pasta sauce is absolutely okay to use, too. You could also use a Meat Sauce instead of tomato sauce if you’d prefer.
  • Filling- Feel free to add more spinach or completely omit it if you’d like.

Other Easy Pasta Recipes

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

Spinach And Cheese Manicotti Ingredients

  • Manicotti- cooked until al dente
  • Ricotta Cheese
  • Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
  • Parmesan Cheese, grated
  • Egg
  • Frozen Chopped Spinach, thawed and drained very well
  • Tomato Sauce (jarred or homemade)
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Italian Seasonig and Oregano

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°

First, line a 9 x 13” baking dish with most of the tomato sauce.

Next, in a large bowl, add the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, salt, pepper, garlic powder Italian Seasoning and oregano.

Now, mix everything together until it’s evenly combined.

Then, using a spoon, fill the inside of the manicotti with the spinach and cheese filling.

Now, place them, side by side, into the baking dish.

Next, cover them in a little more sauce and sprinkle them with some more mozzarella cheese.

Then, bake place them into the oven for about 20-30 minutes.

Finally, let them cool slightly, garnish them with parsley (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy!

Spinach and Cheese Manicotti

Spinach and cheese manicotti is make with a blend of seasoned cheese and spinach stuffed inside manicotti pasta and baked in a flavorful tomato sauce for a dinner the whole family will love.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz boc=x Manicotti Pasta- cooked until al dente
  • 2 cups Ricotta Cheese
  • 3 cups Mozzarella Cheese, hand shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
  • 1 Egg
  • ¼ cup Frozen Chopped Spinach, thawed and drained very well
  • 3 cups Tomato Sauce (homemade or jarred)
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 tbs Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano
  • 1 tbs Italian Seasoning

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • Line a 9 x 13” baking dish with 2 cups of the tomato sauce.
  • In a large bowl, add the ricotta, 2 cups of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, egg, spinach, salt, pepper, garlic powder Italian Seasoning and oregano.
  • Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined. Using a spoon, fill the inside of the manicotti with the spinach and cheese filling.
  • Place them, side by side, into the baking dish.
  • Cover them in a little more sauce and sprinkle them with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
  • Bake place them into the oven for about 20-30 minutes.
  • Let them cool slightly, garnish them with parsley (optional) and serve warm. Enjoy!

Video

Keyword spinach and cheese manicotti