THE SERENDIPITY BISTRO

German Chocolate Truffles

2012-02-11T22:19:00.001-05:00

Valentine's Day is coming...so here's a perfect little treat that your sweetheart will remember all year.

Ingredients
1 Box German Chocolate Cake Mix
1 Container German Chocolate Frosting (it's the caramel with coconut in it)
White Chocolate for dipping

Directions
Bake cake according to package directions and allow to cool.
Crumble into a large mixing bowl; add frosting to the crumbled cake mixture. Mix well- I find it is easier (although messy) to mix with my hands. Cool in refrigerator.
Scoop out the cake mix by the heaping teaspoon and roll; place in refrigerator or freezer to get them firm.
Melt chocolate. Take the rolled cake out a few at a time and dip in the chocolate and allow to cool completely.

These are not hard, just time consuming, but sooooo worth it when you get the oohs and ahhhs from whoever tries them. I normally do it in 3 phases- cake one night, frosting and cake the next, and then chocolate dipping the next.

Basic Waffle

2012-02-11T21:50:00.000-05:00

OH MY GOODNESS. These were the best tasting waffles EVER. This will now be my go-to recipe for waffles. We love to eat waffles for dinner. You won't be disappointed. I promise.

Ingredients
4 3/4 ounces all-purpose, approximately 1 cup
4 3/4 ounces whole-wheat flour, approximately 1 cup

1/2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp salt

3 tbsp sugar

3 whole eggs, beaten

2 ounces unsalted butter, melted

16 ounces buttermilk, room temperature

Vegetable spray, for waffle iron

Directions

Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer's directions. In a medium bowl whisk together the flours, soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl beat together eggs and melted butter, and then add the buttermilk. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir until combined. Allow to rest for 5 minutes. Ladle the recommended amount of waffle batter onto the iron according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Close iron top and cook until the waffle is golden on both sides and is easily removed from iron. Serve immediately or keep warm in a 200 degree F oven until ready to serve.

Recipe courtesy - Alton Brown, Food Network

Gluten Free Coconut Flour Banana Muffins

2012-02-11T21:11:00.000-05:00

Ingredients

1/2 c Coconut Flour

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking powder

6 eggs

4 tbsp Coconut Oil, melted

1/4 c honey

2-3 ripe, mashed bananas

1/2 c nuts (optional)

Directions

Mix all ingredients together, then pour batter into a well greased (or paper lined) muffin pan. Bake at 350 for 15-25 minutes. Makes 12 muffins.

Recipe courtesy - Lisa B of Tennessee

Gluten Free Asparagus Ham Casserole

2012-02-11T21:03:00.001-05:00

Ingredients

3-3/4 c uncooked gluten free pasta (your choice, I used Fusilli)

2-1/2 c asparagus, sliced

1/4 c cornstarch

1/4 tsp dried thyme

1/4 tsp salt

1/8 tsp pepper

1 c milk

1 c gluten free chicken broth

1 tbsp butter

1 c onion, chopped

1-1/2 c gluten free ham, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces

1/4 c parsley, chopped

1/2 c Parmesan cheese, grated

2 c cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Cook pasta in boiling water until almost done. Add asparagus and continue to boil for 1 minute; drain and set aside. Place cornstarch, thyme, salt and pepper in a medium bowl and add milk and broth stirring until well blended. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and saute until softened. Add milk mixture and cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. In a large bowl, combine pasta & asparagus, milk mixture, ham, parsley and cheddar cheese; gently mix together. Transfer to a 2 quart casserole dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Recipe courtesy - Lisa B of Tennessee

Fluffy Coconut Flour Pancakes

2012-02-11T20:39:00.000-05:00

My friend Lisa says these pancakes are really good topped with real maple syrup and berries!

Ingredients

4 eggs, room temperature

1 c milk (cow’s or coconut both work)

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp honey

1/2 c coconut flour

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp sea salt

Coconut oil or butter for frying

Directions

Preheat griddle over medium-low heat. In a small bowl beat eggs until frothy, about two minutes. Mix in milk, vanilla, and honey. In a medium-sized bowl combine coconut flour, baking soda, and sea salt and whisk together. Stir wet mixture into dry until coconut flour is incorporated. Allow the mixture to sit for 2-3 minutes to "set-up". Grease pan with butter or coconut oil. Ladle a few tablespoons of batter into pan for each pancake. Spread out slightly with the back of a spoon. The pancakes should be 2-3 inches in diameter and fairly thick. Cook for a few minutes on each side, until the tops dry out slightly and the bottoms start to brown. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot with butter, coconut oil, honey, syrup, or fruit.

Recipe Notes: Both cow and coconut milk work well in this recipe. You can also add cinnamon or fruit as desired. Just keep the pancakes small and watch them so they don’t burn.

Recipe courtesy - Lisa B of Tennessee

Gluten Free Peanutty Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

2012-02-11T20:33:00.000-05:00

Ingredients

2 c gluten free all-purpose baking flour (my AP flour is 2 cups brown rice flour, 2/3 cup potato starch and 1/3 cup tapioca flour - sift all together - then measure out what's needed)

1 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp xanthan gum (if your AP flour does not already have it)

4 eggs

2 c mashed ripe bananas (4-5 medium)

1/2 c sugar

1/2 c peanut butter

1/3 c "light" olive oil

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 c chocolate chips

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda and salt. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs, bananas, sugar, peanut butter, oil and vanilla. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in chocolate chips. Transfer to two 8-in. x 4-in. loaf pans coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with additional chocolate chips. Bake at 350° for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks. Yield: 2 loaves (12 slices each).

Recipe courtesy - Lisa B of Tennessee

Roasted Root Vegetable Medley

2012-02-11T20:27:00.000-05:00

Ingredients

8 to 12 slender carrots, peeled and trimmed

8 to 12 baby turnips, peeled

6 to 8 fingerling potatoes, scrubbed and cut lengthwise in halves

1 or 2 large parsnips, peeled, trimmed, and cut diagonally into 1-inch-thick slices

1 or 2 medium onions, trimmed, peeled and halved, each 1/2 cut into quarters

1 or 2 large beets, peeled and cut into thick wedges

1 or 2 kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and cut into thick wedges

1 celery root, trimmed and halved, halves cut crosswise into 1-inch-thick slices

1 whole head garlic, separated into cloves, unpeeled

2 or 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, sage, or thyme

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Put all the vegetables and the herb sprigs in a large baking dish. Season well with salt and black pepper, drizzle generously with olive oil, and toss them with your hands to coat them evenly. Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and cook, stirring the vegetables occasionally, until they are tender and golden brown, about 45 minutes. Serve the vegetables from their baking dish or transfer them to a platter to accompany a roasted main course.

Note from Lisa - I did not use celery root, parsnips or kohlrabi in mine, because I could not find them. You can make this recipe with any root veggies you like.

Recipe courtesy - Lisa B of Tennessee

Gluten Free Taco Corn Fritters

2012-02-11T20:16:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful for Lisa sending me this family tested gluten free recipes. These corn fritters look and sound delicious. I would like to make these for my family.

Ingredients

1/2 lb ground beef, seasoned (use your favorite taco seasoning recipe)
2 c cornmeal - gluten free

1 tsp baking powder - gluten free

1/4 tsp salt

2 large eggs

3/4 c milk

1/4 c honey

1/4 c olive oil

3/4 c shredded cheese

2 c frozen corn, thawed

oil for frying

Directions
Brown hamburger meat with seasoning mix, and drain oil. In another bowl, mix together remaining ingredients, except corn and cheese until blended. Fold seasoned meat, corn and cheese into the corn batter. Heat oil for frying in a skillet (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep). Scoop 2 tablespoons of corn mixture into the hot oil (I like to use an ice cream scoop for uniform scoops), flattening batter to form a “patty”. Fry for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Top with your favorite salsa and a dollop of sour cream.

Variations
-Add a can of black beans, or chilies for an extra kick

-Substitute ground beef for shredded seasoned chicken

Recipe courtesy - Lisa B of Tennessee

Herbed New Potatoes

2012-02-11T20:07:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 1/2 lbs small white or Yukon gold potatoes, scrubbed but not peeled
2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
3 tbsp chopped mixed fresh green herbs, parsley/chives.... I used basil

Directions
Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large heavy bottomed pot. Add the whole potatoes, salt and pepper, and toss well. Cover the pot tightly and cook over low heat 20 to 30 minutes, until potatoes are just tender when tested with a small knife. Shake the pot without removing the lid to prevent the bottom of the potatoes from burning. Turn off the heat and allow the potatoes to steam for another 5 minutes. Don't overcook. Toss with the herbs, and serve hot.

Recipe courtesy - Linda O of Georgia

Oatmeal Meatloaf

2012-02-11T19:50:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 egg
1/4 c gluten free ketchup
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp onion, diced
1/2 c water
1 c gluten free oats
1 tbsp Italian herbs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions
Blend all ingredients and press down into a loaf pan. Bake 1 hour at 350 degrees. Top with more ketchup and bake 5 more minutes.

Recipe courtesy - Linda O of Georgia

Magically Moist Almond Cake

2012-02-11T19:47:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
3/4 c unsalted butter
1 c sugar
4 eggs
1/2 c milk
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 c almond meal/ flour
1/2 c coconut Flour (this adds great flavor and fiber)
1/4 tsp salt
2 tsp baking powder

Directions
Cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Add in eggs, one at a time, and beat until fully blended. Add milk and vanilla, and mix until combined. In a separate bowl, combine flours, salt, and baking powder. Beat the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and beat until creamy. Spread in a greased 9 x 13 cake pan and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Tastes great topped with whipped topping and fruit. We used strawberries!

Recipe courtesy - Carmen O of Georgia

Warm Caramel Apple Cake

2012-02-11T18:06:00.000-05:00

This recipe comes from my good friend, Carmen. It is gluten free.

Ingredients
Topping
1/4 c butter
2 tbsp whipping cream
1/2 c packed brown sugar
1/2 c chopped pecans
1 large tart cooking apple, peeled, thinly sliced

Cake
1 box Betty Crocker Gluten Free yellow cake mix
1/4 tsp apple pie spice or (1/8 tsp cinnamon and 1/8 tsp nutmeg)
2/3 c water
1/2 c butter, softened
3 eggs

Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees. In medium microwavable bowl, microwave butter, whipping cream and brown sugar uncovered on high about 1 minute or just until butter is melted. Pour into ungreased 9-inch or 8-in square pan. Sprinkle with pecans. Top with apple slices. In large bowl, beat cake mix, apple pie spice, water, butter and eggs with mixer on low speed until moistened, then beat on medium speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally. Spread batter over apple mixture. Bake 9-inch pan 50-55 minutes, 8-inch pan 60-65 minutes, or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. (My oven cooked it faster). Cool in pan 10 minutes. Loosen sides of cake from pan. Place heatproof serving platter upside down on pan; carefully turn platter and pan over. Let pan remain over cake 1 minute so caramel can drizzle over cake. Remove pan.

Recipe courtesy - Linda O of Georgia

Red Velvet Cake

2012-02-09T17:03:00.000-05:00

This is Paula Deen's recipe...need I say more. I made this for my husband's birthday. It was the best red velvet cake I have ever eaten in my life. I will definitely make this cake again. I did not use the coconut and pecans because my family does not like them.

Ingredients
Cake
1 tsp vanilla
1 c buttermilk
1 tsp salt
2 1/2 c cake flour
1/2 lb (2 sticks) butter
2 ounces red food coloring
2 tbsp cocoa
2 c sugar
2 eggs
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tbsp vinegar

Icing
1 16-ounce box of confectioner’s sugar
1 stick butter, softened
1 c melted marshmallows
1 c shredded coconut, optional if you like
1 c chopped pecans, optional if you like
1 8-ounce package of cream cheese

Directions
Cake
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Beat eggs; add sugar. Mix cocoa and food coloring. Add butter and egg mixture; mix well. Sift together flour and salt. Add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk. Blend in vanilla. In a small bowl, combine soda and vinegar and add to mixture. Pour into three 8-inch round greased and floured pans. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until tests done.

Icing
Blend cream cheese and butter. Add marshmallows and sugar and blend. Fold in coconut and nuts. Spread between layers and on top and sides of cooled cake.

Recipe courtesy Paula Deen

Buttered Noodles

2012-01-25T23:11:00.001-05:00

I think these noodles need a better name than just buttered noodles. The addition of both Parmesan and Mozzarella made them scrumptious. So much more than a buttered noodle.

Ingredients

2-1/4 c uncooked egg noodles

1/4 c shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

2 tbsp butter, melted

2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/8 tsp pepper

Directions

Cook noodles according to package directions; drain. Transfer to a serving bowl. Immediately add the remaining ingredients and toss to coat.

Recipe courtesy - Simple and Delicious

Italian-Style Salisbury Steak

2012-01-25T22:59:00.001-05:00

This was one of the best tasting meat recipes that I have tasted in a long time. My son even said it was the best meat he has ever eaten. It was packed with so much flavor. This will become a regular meal in our home.

Ingredients

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 c seasoned bread crumbs

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp pepper

1 lb ground beef

1 tbsp canola oil

1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes with basil, oregano and garlic, undrained

1 can (8 ounces) Italian tomato sauce

Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first five ingredients. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well. Shape into four oval patties. In a large skillet, brown patties in oil on both sides. Drain. In a small bowl, combine diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Pour over patties. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until meat is no longer pink.

Recipe Courtesy - Simple and Delicious

Gluten Free Blueberry Breakfast Cookies

2012-01-23T21:23:00.001-05:00

I am so thankful for my friend, Lisa, for sending us all these gluten free recipes. She recently had to start eating G/F and has really jumped in with both feet to learn the food. She sent this recipe with the word "FANTASTIC". I love anything with blueberries and this looks yummy.

Ingredients

3/4 c quinoa flakes

3/4 c brown rice flour, finely ground

1/2 c tapioca flour or starch

5 tbsp potato starch (NOT potato flour)
1/4 c unsweetened shredded coconut

1 tsp gluten free baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp xanthan gum or guar gum

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 c honey (TIP: spray your measuring cup with non-stick cooking spray and your honey will slide right out)

3 tbsp oil of your choice
1 egg
1 c blueberries

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with parchment. Set aside. In a bowl, combine all dry ingredients and mix well. Add honey, oil, and egg. Mix well. Fold blueberries in until combined. Using wet hands, divide the dough into 6 balls using about 1/3 cup of batter. Put dough on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 18 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly on pan before removing. Cool on cooling rack.

Courtesy of: Lisa B of Tennessee

Ham Chowder

2012-01-18T15:38:00.001-05:00

This recipe comes courtesy of a Facebook follower, Jessi H. She said her family loves it & it only takes 30 minutes total! It sounds like a winner to me.

Ingredients
Half a cooked ham, small cubed
1/2 bag of frozen mixed veggies
5 potatoes large cubed
1/2 medium onion, diced
1/2 block of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 c whipping cream or half and half
Pepper

Directions
Fill a large pot half way with water. Add cubed potatoes and onions. Boil until tender. Add the cubed ham and frozen veggies. Stir well. Bring back to a boil, then add whipping cream. Stir well. 5 minutes prior to serving, add the shredded cheese. Add ground black pepper to taste.

Recipe courtesy: Jessi H.

Easy Stromboli

2012-01-17T14:02:00.000-05:00

This recipe is from my good friend Rachel L. We went to her house for New Year's Eve a couple years ago and she fixed this- so easy and so yummy!

Ingredients
2 tubes Refrigerated pizza crust
6 slices ham
16 slices salami
16 slices pepperoni
2 Tbl Italian dressing
2 eggs, beaten
2 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tsp garlic pepper
4 slices mozzarella cheese

Directions
Lay pizza crust flat on a cookie sheet. In middle third section, lay out meats and cheese. Top with Italian dressing. On right side of crust, brush with egg. Roll up and pinch together. With a pizza cutter, make small slits on the top of the dough. Brush top with egg and sprinkle with garlic pepper and seasoning.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 30 minutes.

To freeze
Allow to cool. Wrap in foil and place in freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheat in 350 degree oven for 15-20 minutes- leave in foil.

Candied Carrots

2012-01-17T10:48:00.003-05:00

This is a recipe I adapted from the 30 Meals in One Day program I use for Freezer Cooking. Even my "non-carrot eater" eats these.

Ingredients
2 lb bag carrots
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1/4 c butter
1/4 c brown sugar, packed

Directions
Peel and slice carrots. Place in pan and cover with water. Add salt and sugar. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium and boil gently for about 20 minutes until carrots are soft.
Drain. In the same pan, melt butter and brown sugar together until bubbly. Immediately pour carrots back into pan. Stir to coat.

To freeze
Allow to cool. Place in freezer bag or container.

To serve after freezing
Heat and serve.

6 servings

Rosemary Garlic Baked Chicken

2012-01-17T09:47:00.000-05:00

This is a favorite recipe of our entire family. I found it several years ago on a Weight Watchers board and have since adapted it to go in the freezer. So easy to make, but tastes amazing! We love this served with mashed potatoes and Candied Carrots.

Ingredients
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. olive oil
2 tsp. lemon juice
4 tsp. rosemary garlic seasoning
2 tsp. parsley
1/4 cup canned chicken broth

Directions
Coat roasting pan with cooking spray. Season both sides of chicken with salt and pepper. Transfer chicken to prepared pan. Drizzle with olive oil; sprinkle with lemon juice, rosemary garlic, and parsley. Pour chicken broth around the chicken breasts.

This recipe can be frozen at this point or baked at 400 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
To serve from frozen, thaw and bake as directed.

Chili-Spice Pork Chops

2012-01-16T22:21:00.000-05:00

My five year old daughter saw a picture of these pork chops in a magazine. She wanted me to make them for dinner so I adapted the recipe to suit our family's taste. They turned out so delicious. They were crispy on the outside, moist on the inside and the taste was awesome.

Ingredients
3/4 c seasoned bread crumbs
1 1/2 tbsp chili powder
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1 egg
1/4 c milk
4-6 boneless pork chops

Directions
Combine bread crumbs, chili powder, pepper, salt and garlic powder in a bowl. Combine egg and milk in another bowl. Dip chops in egg mixture, then coat with crumbs. Place chops on a baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes - turning the chops once.

Recipe adapted from Simple and Delicious

Italian Parmesan Garlic Bread

2012-01-16T21:47:00.001-05:00

Ingredients
1 loaf French bread
Olive oil
Garlic salt
Italian seasonings
Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
Slice loaf into half-inch slices. Place bread slices on cookie sheet. Brush with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic salt, Italian seasonings, and Parmesan cheese. Bake at 425 degrees for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and lightly browned.

Nikki's Bean and Beef Burritos

2012-01-16T21:25:00.001-05:00

I combined several recipes to create this new bean and beef burrito recipe. It is by far the most flavorful one I have made. The family loved it.

Ingredients
1 # ground chuck
4 1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp seasoned salt
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic salt
1/4 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried minced onion
1/4 tsp ground red pepper
1# ground chuck
3/4 c water
16 oz can refried beans
6-8 large flour tortillas
2 c shredded cheddar cheese
16 oz sour cream

Directions
In a medium bowl, combine all spices together. Crumble the ground chuck into a large skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until browned. Drain grease from beef. Return meat to skillet, and pour in seasoning. Stir in water. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until uncovered for 10-15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream and refried beans. Top each tortilla with the meat mixture; sprinkle with cheese. Roll burritos. Place seam side down in a greased 9x13 dish. Once the dish is filled with 6-8 burritos, pour remaining meat mixture all over the top. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake until cheese is melted. Serve with sour cream.

Italian Dressing Mix

2012-01-13T15:52:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
2 tbsp oregano, ground or oregano leaves
1 tbsp dried parsley
1 tbsp granulated sugar
2 tbsp salt or salt substitute
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp ground basil or basil leaves
1/4 tsp ground thyme or thyme leaves
1/2 tsp dried celery leaves or dried celery flakes

Directions
Mix all ingredients together and store in air-tight container.

Italian Salad Dressing
2 tbsp of the dried mix above
1/4 c vinegar
2 tbsp water
1/2 to 2/3 c olive oil or canola oil.

Mix all ingredients & shake well.

Recipe courtesy: Rebecca L. of Ohio

Rice Pilaf

2012-01-13T15:46:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
1/2 c butter

2 to 2 1/2 c boiling water, chicken stock, or water with bouillon cubes
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt
1 c long grain rice

Directions
Melt butter in heavy saucepan. Add rice and saute over low heat for several minutes until butter is bubbly. Add boiling liquid, salt and lemon juice and stir once or twice. Cover pan tightly and cook over low heat for about 20 minutes or until rice has absorbed all liquid. (The trick to making perfect pilaf is to add boiling liquid to the sauteed rice and then not to remove the cover until the rice is cooked. You can peek after 15 minutes to make sure no additional liquid is necessary.)

Recipe courtesy: Rebecca L. of Ohio

Tasty Bake Chicken

2012-01-13T15:42:00.000-05:00

Ingredients

4 chicken breast halves, bone in
1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian-style salad dressing mix (click here for homemade mix)
2 tbsp cold water
2 tbsp olive oil

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Empty contents of salad dressing mix package into a small bowl. Add water and mix well, then stir in olive oil and mix again. Note: DO NOT add vinegar as per package instructions. Place chicken breasts 'wrong side up' in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Put 1/2 teaspoon of the dressing mixture on each breast and spread over the surface. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the breasts. Turn breasts over and spoon remaining mixture on to the topside. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until tops are golden brown and chicken is cooked through (juices run clear).

Recipe courtesy: Rebecca L. of Ohio

Quinoa with Tomatoes and Parmesan Cheese

2012-01-13T15:20:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Lisa for sending this gluten free recipe. I have never eaten Quinoa, but this looks delicious. Quinoa is a grain-like crop that is harvested primarily for its edible seeds.

Ingredients

1 c Quinoa

2 c chicken broth

1 can diced tomatoes with basil, oregano and garlic

Parmesan cheese

Italian flat leaf parsley, chopped

Directions

Cook Quinoa according to package directions, substituting the water for chicken broth. Once cooked, add can of diced tomatoes with herbs and Parmesan cheese. Top with Italian flat leaf parsley when serving.

Recipe courtesy: Lisa B. of Tennessee

Gluten Free Croutons

2012-01-13T15:06:00.000-05:00

Ingredients

1/2 c extra virgin olive oil
3 tsp fresh herbs (use what will compliment your entree)

3 cloves minced garlic

freshly ground pepper to taste

salt to taste

1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese

5-6 slices gluten free bread, cut into small cubes

Directions

Preheat oven to 275 degrees. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, herbs, garlic, pepper, and salt. Stir to mix. In a large bowl, toss the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Add the herbed oil mixture a little at a time, tossing to coat after each addition. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the bread cubes evenly on top. Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes - or until the bread looks lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let sit to harden for another 1/2 to 1 hour before serving.

Note - store in zipper bag or air tight container if not using immediately.

Recipe courtesy: Lisa B of Tennessee

Gluten Free Granola Cereal

2012-01-08T23:17:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine, Lisa, attended a class on cooking gluten free. She came away with several great recipes. Here is one that would be great for adults and kids.

Ingredients
5 c oats (make sure they are certified gluten-free)
2 c sliced almonds
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp kosher salt
1 1/2 c mixed dried fruit (we used apricots, sour cherries, and golden raisins)
Honey, to taste
2 tbsp "light" olive oil

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Mix together the oats and the almonds. Make sure you use a large baking sheet or roasting pan for this (I prefer the roasting pan, because you can really swirl around those ingredients without spilling them on the floor.) Sprinkle the cinnamon and salt over the top. Stir it up. Toss the bite-sized pieces of dried fruit over the top of the oat mixture. To be honest, you might want more than 1 1/2 cups here. Stir it all up. Drizzle the honey evenly over the surface of the oat mixture. Do the same with the oil. Stir it all up until everything is well coated - not too sticky, but not dry either. Put in the oven. Bake for 12 minutes, then stir well. Put the pan back in the oven. Repeat this process three more times (it could be two or four times, depending on your oven). You’re looking for the granola to be not-at-all wet, golden brown, with a bit of crunch.

Note: feel free to add more seeds and nuts, and whatever mixture of dried fruit you want.

Recipe Courtesy: Lisa B. of Tennessee

Gluten Free Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

2012-01-08T23:00:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
1 c peanut butter
1 c sugar
1 c unsweetened applesauce
3 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 c G/F muti-purpose flour (sifted twice before measuring. Can also substitute for buckwheat flour)
1 tsp baking powder
1/3 c cocoa

Directions
Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Mix top 5 ingredients. Add remaining dry ingredients. Beat for 2 minutes. Bake in a greased 9" x 11" pan for 40 minutes.

If desired top with cool whip, frosting, or powdered sugar.

Recipe Courtesy: Lisa B. of Tennessee

Parmesan Cayenne Baked Cod

2012-01-08T22:52:00.001-05:00

Another great gluten free recipe from Lisa B. This one would be great even for those who don't have to watch for gluten. Thanks for sending it to us.

Ingredients
1 lb of cod fillet (or similar fish)
1 tbsp olive oil, or enough to lightly coat a baking dish
3 tbsp mayonnaise (make sure G/F)
1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (make sure G/F)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (make sure G/F)
1 tbsp minced onion
Dash of ground cayenne pepper (or more to your liking)
2 oz grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp paprika
salt and pepper to taste

DirectionsPreheat oven to 350 degrees. Wash and pat dry the fish. Coat the baking dish with olive oil and set the fish inside. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne and the onion. Mix well and spread over fish. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese. Season with paprika, salt and pepper. Bake uncovered, for about 30 minutes or until fish becomes flaky and top is crisp.

Recipe Courtesy: Lisa B. of Tennessee

Brown Rice Quesadillas with Goat Cheese

2012-01-08T22:44:00.000-05:00

Thank you, Lisa B. for sending us this gluten free recipe. It sounds really tasty.

Ingredients
4 Gluten Free Brown Rice Wraps

6-8 oz goat cheese
8 scallions, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
1 - 2 c salsa

Directions
Spread 2 of the 4 brown rice wraps with goat cheese and sprinkle with scallions, salt and pepper. Top each one with a plain brown rice wrap to sandwich together. Lightly coat a large skillet with oil or spray. Add the quesadillas and cook over medium-high heat until golden and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and cut into 8 wedges. Spoon or dip into the salsa.

Note: Add chicken or black beans to make more of a meal than an appetizer.

Recipe Courtesy: Lisa B. of Tennessee

Drunk Chicken (Beer in the Rear Chicken)

2012-01-08T22:27:00.001-05:00

I made a "drunk" chicken for our Christmas Eve dinner. It was delicious. The entire family enjoyed it. I found this recipe on Paula Deen's website. She calls it "beer in the rear chicken" but I know it as a drunk chicken. This can also be done on your grill outside. We had leftover chicken which I used to make homemade chicken noodle soup.

Ingredients
1 (12-ounce) can light beer
2 - 3 tbsp dry rub, recipe follows
5 lb whole chicken, rinsed and patted dry
barbecue sauce, recipe follows

Dry Rub
2 tsp salt
2 tsp sweet paprika
2 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp celery salt
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dry mustard
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp chili powder
Cayenne pepper, pinch

Barbeque Sauce
3/4 c finely chopped onion
2 tsp minced garlic
2 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 c ketchup
2 tbsp prepared yellow mustard
1/2 c apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 c water
Dash Worcestershire sauce

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Note: I used a roaster oven to cook mine.
Set up your indoor/oven beer can chicken roaster according to manufacturer’s instructions. Rub the chicken all over with the dry rub making sure to get some around the cavity opening as well. Put the rubbed chicken in place over the beer can, on top of a roasting pan. Place the chicken in the oven and roast for 30 minutes.

Lower the oven to 325 degrees F and roast for 90 minutes basting with the chicken drippings and Barbecue Sauce until very, very tender. Carefully remove the chicken from the roaster and let rest 10 minutes before carving. Remove beer can from chicken. Serve with more Barbecue Sauce on the side.

Dry Rub
Combine all ingredients together. Store in an airtight container. Note: I used all of the dry rub on my chicken because I like lots of seasoning.

Barbeque Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, saute the onion and garlic in vegetable oil until soft. Add salt and pepper. Stir in remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer 10 minutes.

Recipe Source: Paula Deen

Chocolate Chip Dip

2012-01-06T16:32:00.000-05:00

This recipe comes from Sarah C, a follower on Facebook. Thank you for sharing it with us. I love this dip. It is a little dangerous as I could eat it by the spoonful.

Ingredients
1 stick butter
8 oz cream cheese
1 tbsp vanilla
3/4 c powdered sugar
1 bad mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
Your favorite cookie, graham cracker, etc

Directions
Mix all ingredients and chill until ready to serve. I have also seen people roll it into a ball with wax paper and after it is well chilled you remove the wax paper and serve it like a cheese ball. Serve with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or other cookie/ wafer.

Recipe courtesy - Sarah C.

Gluten Free Cinnamon Toast Cereal

2011-12-09T23:18:00.001-05:00

Ingredients
1/2 c of garbanzo/fava bean flour
1/2 c of millet flour or any other gluten free grain
2 tbsp vegan margarine, melted
3/4 c water
1/4 tsp of salt
2 tbsp organic sugar, divided
2 tsp cinnamon, divided
1 tsp vanilla extract

DirectionsPreheat oven to 375. Line a rimmed cookie sheet with parchment paper. Set aside. In a large bowl, add flours, margarine, salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and vanilla. Add water. Whisk until completely smooth. Pour batter onto lined cookie sheet and spread batter evenly to each edge of the sheet. Sprinkle with remaining sugar and cinnamon. Bake for 22-27 minutes, until edges are starting to brown and center is just starting to crack. Remove parchment from sheet and cut the cereal into 1-inch squares. Spread squares back onto the unlined sheet and bake for an additional 2-4 minutes, turning at least once. Cereal should be crisp and crunchy.

Recipe courtesy: Carmon O of Georgia

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-12-09T22:47:00.001-05:00

This might be my new favorite cookie. They are a combination of chewy on the inside & crunchy on the outside. Perfect!

Ingredients
1 c oil
1 c sugar
1 c brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
2 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 c dry quick cooking oats
6 oz chocolate chips

Directions
Cream oil & sugars. Add eggs & vanilla. Mix well. Beat in flour, baking soda, baking powder & salt. Stir in oats & chocolate chips. Drop by teaspoonful onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Let cookies sit on pan for 3-5 minutes before removing & placing on a cooling rack.

Spinach Lasagna Rolls

2011-11-18T19:18:00.001-05:00

My husband and I loved these. They were so easy, but had a big taste. My kids are not big fans of lasagna so I just took extra spaghetti sauce and made them rigatoni. And since the recipe only makes 6 it was perfect for our dinner - with leftovers for lunch the next day.

Ingredients
4 oz cream cheese, softened
10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1 1/4 c shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 c Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
6 cooked lasagna noodles
2 1/4 c spaghetti sauce (click here for my recipe)

Directions
Mix cream cheese, spinach, 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Spread mixture onto lasagna noodles, roll up tightly. Spread 1/4 cup of the spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a 9-inch square baking pan. Place lasagna rolls, seam-side down into the pan. Top with 2 cups of spaghetti sauce and 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes.

Macaroni and Cheese

2011-11-14T15:11:00.001-05:00

A lot of people love my macaroni & cheese. I have changed the recipe over time. Sometimes I try some new cheeses or take something out. I am not sure if I ever make it the same way twice. This version is one of MY favorites.

Ingredients
1 package (16 ounces) spiral pasta
2 c. half-and-half cream
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cheddar cheese soup, undiluted
1/2 c. butter, melted
4 c. (16 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. In a 5-qt. slow cooker, combine the cream, soup and butter until smooth; stir in the cheese and pasta. Cover and cook on low for 2-1/2 hours or until cheese is melted. If you have a crock pot that gets really hot, it will not cook for that long. Keep an eye on it.
Yield: 12-15 servings.

Ultimate Chocolate Chip Oreo Cookie Brownie Bars

2011-11-09T10:56:00.001-05:00

My family was in from Colorado, so I had them over for dinner... Dinner was just okay...BUT then I brought out these brownies- nobody cared that dinner was just okay. These are pure yumminess. Another find from Pinterest.

Ingredients:
1 package of "break and bake" chocolate chip cookie dough
1 package double stuff Oreo Cookies
1 package of Fudge Brownie Mix

Directions:
Line a 9 X 13 pan with waxed paper and spray the waxed paper with cooking spray. (Yes, you can bake with waxed paper- I NEVER knew this!) This will make the brownies so much easier to get out, BUT do not let them cool completely in the pan- you will have to peel waxed paper off the bottom.

Break apart the cookie dough and arrange in the bottom of the pan. Place Oreos on top of the cookie dough. Prepare the brownie mix according to package direction and pour over the top of the Oreos and Cookie dough.

Bake in a 350 degree oven 45-55 minutes. Top with vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!!!!

The original recipe (she uses homemade cookie dough; my motto is simple...but check it out!) http://www.kevinandamanda.com/whatsnew/new-recipes/ultimate-chocolate-chip-cookie-n-oreo-fudge-brownie-bar.html

Frosty Copy-Cat

2011-11-08T16:13:00.002-05:00

My daughter had a sleepover this week and they wanted frosties; since it is a 15 minute drive to get to a Wendy's from our house...I decided to try to figure out how to make one for them from stuff in the kitchen. It was pretty close.

Ingredients:
4 cups vanilla ice cream
3/4 cup milk
chocolate milk syrup

Directions:
Put all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. I kept adding the chocolate until I had the frosty color. The girls loved them. EASY!

Red Sauce with Meat (aka Meat Sauce)

2011-11-07T22:52:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
2 lb ground chuck
1 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
Olive oil
2 large cans Hunt's Tomato Sauce
2 large cans water
4 small cans Contadina Tomato Paste with Italian Herbs
1 1/2 tbsp oregano
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp basil
2 tbsp parsley
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 c Parmesan cheese

Directions
This sauce can be made on the stove or in a crock pot (after you have browned your meat). Pour olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add ground chuck and garlic. Cook meat until browned. Once the meat is brown, I start adding the sauce ingredients. If I use the crock pot, I transfer the meatballs & pan drippings to the crock. If I am using the stove I just leave them in the pot. Pour tomato sauce, water & tomato paste into the pot/ crock. Stir until paste is dissolved. Add all of the spices. Do not add the Parmesan cheese. Stir well. Bring to a slow boil. Simmer for 1 hour on the stove or 2-3 hours in the crock pot. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 1 more hour on the stove or 2-3 hours in the crock pot. Serve with your favorite pasta. We use whole wheat pastas. The sauce can also be used for lasagna, stuffed shells, baked ziti, etc.

Note: The sauce freezes perfectly for other meals.

Make Ahead Chicken Burritos

2011-11-04T12:23:00.001-04:00

The name says it all...although, most burrito recipes can be adapted to freeze.

Ingredients:
3 cups chicken, cooked and shredded
16 oz. jar salsa
14.5 oz can refried beans, fat free
4 oz. can green chilies, chopped and drained
1 package taco seasoning mix
12 wheat tortillas, warmed
16 oz. Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded

Directions:
In a large skillet, combine the chicken, salsa, beans, chilies, seasoning, and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat; simmer; uncovered for 5 minutes or until heated through. Spoon about 1/3 cup off-center on each tortilla; top with shredded cheese. Wrap tortillas. Wrap individually in foil. Freeze up to 2 months.

To serve from frozen:
Place the frozen foil packets on a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. Can also be served with ranch dressing if desired.

12 servings

French Toast Sticks

2011-11-03T21:58:00.001-04:00

This French Toast recipe is a favorite of my kids. They like to "grab and go" this one. My youngest likes to dunk", and because of the sugar already added, a little syrup goes a long way.

Ingredients:
6 eggs, well beaten
1 cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 loaf day-old bread

Directions:
Mix all ingredients together. Dip bread in mixture, cotaing both sides well. Brown bread on both sides on griddle at medium heat. Cut each piece of bread into 4 strips. Place individual portions in ziploc sandwich bags. (I place 2 pieces of French Toast- 8slices- in each bag.) Place the smaller bags in a Gallon Size Ziploc Bag to freeze.

To Reheat from Frozen:
Take desired portions form bag and reheat in the microwave at half power. Top with butter and syrup.

Freezing Pancakes

2011-11-03T20:18:00.000-04:00

I like to fit 16 pancakes per freezer bag. Here's how I do it..in pictures.

Tear off a long piece of waxed paper and lay it on a cookie sheet. (The waxed paper should be long enough that it hangs over the edge a little.)

Then you lay 2 pancakes on top, and then "accordion fold" after adding 2 more pancakes to each waxed paper layer. To fit in a gallon freezer bag, you can only go FOUR high (total of 8 pancakes.) You will be left with a section of waxed paper at the end.

Cut that section off. Slide the stack into your freezer bag. Add another stack.

You have 16 pancakes in a freezer bag ready to reheat and enjoy!

Pumpkin Spice Pancakes

2011-11-03T19:42:00.001-04:00

I found this recipe on a blog I came across while on Pinterest. But because I always think of stocking the freezer, I made this recipe x6 and swapped out the white flour for 1/2 wheat and used applesauce for half of the oil. The raisins just seemed a nice addition to the pumpkin, but I think chocolate chips would be a nice addition, as well.

Ingredients:
1 1 /4 cup flour (I used half wheat)
2 Tbl. brown sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
Dash of ground ginger
Dash of ground cloves
1 cup milk
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1 large egg
1 Tbl. canola oil
1 Tbl. applesauce
1/4 cup raisins

Instructions:
Combine all of the dry ingredients in a medium mixing bowl. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, mix together the milk. pumpkin, egg, oil, and applesauce until thoroughly mixed. Add these ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined; it is normal for there to be a few lumps. Fold in the raisins.

Cook by 1/3 cups onto a preheated griddle sprayed with cooking spray. Cook until the pancake is "bubbly" and then carefully flip and cook a couple of minutes more until the pancake is golden brown. Serve with syrup, whipped cream, or cinnamon sugar.

Here is the original recipe:
http://annies-eats.com/2009/11/10/pumpkin-spice-pancakes/

To freeze: Allow pancakes to cool on waxed paper. 16 pancakes can fit perfectly in a freezer bag. (See tips on how to "accordion fold" your pancakes.) Reheat frozen in microwave.

Garbanzo Extravaganzo

2011-10-24T14:10:00.000-04:00

I love "chick peas". I put them on my salad every single day. I also love them as hummus. This recipe blends chick peas & spinach with a light dressing. What another great way to add fiber into your diet!

Ingredients
15.5 oz can chick peas (garbanzo beans)
6 oz bag baby spinach
1/2 c red onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
3 tbsp olive oil
Pepper, to taste

Directions
In a large bowl, toss together chick peas, spinach & onion. Pour vinegar into a small bowl. Using a whisk, slowly drizzle in oil, whisking constantly, until combined. Season with pepper. Pour dressing over salad. Toss well to coat. Chill until ready to serve.

Pickled Eggs & Beets

2011-10-17T14:16:00.000-04:00

Growing up I can remember my mom making pickled eggs & beets in a very large pickle jar (the biggest jar she could find). Our entire family loved them so she had to make 2 dozen at a time. This is her recipe, tried & true.

Ingredients
8 eggs (boil 7 minutes and put in ice water - makes peeling easy)
1 c apple cider vinegar
1/2 c water
1 (15oz) can beets
1/2 c sugar ( I use just a little less). When I triple recipe I use exactly 1 cup of sugar.

Directions
Combine beets, water, vinegar, sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Add eggs. Place in refrigerator. You can test them in 2 days. They should be ready.

I triple the recipe so we have for awhile. They last a very long time unless you really love them. You can add new eggs to the juice mixture when you have eaten all your eggs.

Recipe courtesy: My mom, Judy

Greek Spaghetti

2011-10-16T21:16:00.000-04:00

Ingredients
2 pounds pasta (I use whole wheat)
2 sticks butter
3-4 cloves minced garlic
Garlic pepper
Parmesan Cheese
Diced tomatoes
Parsley

Directions
Cook the pasta according to package.
Melt butter in a saucepan and then add minced garlic and garlic pepper to taste until garlic is browned.
Toss butter and garlic with the pasta, adding Parmesan and tomatoes to taste. Sprinkle parsley to taste.

We were invited over to friends for dinner and they served this. I asked for the recipe. There weren't a lot of measurements, but I am pretty sure this can't really be messed up! Is there such a thing as too much garlic? So simple and sooooo yummy!

Sausage Breakfast Casserole

2011-09-27T23:17:00.000-04:00

My sister made this for brunch one day & it was delicious. Everyone went crazy over this super tasty casserole. It would also be great for dinner.

Ingredients
2 lb regular flavor pork sausage
2 pkg crescent rolls
2 pkg cream cheese

Directions
Spray 9"x13" casserole dish with non-stick spray. Brown sausage in a skillet. Add cream cheese & mix until blended. Take one package of crescent rolls, separate & press into the bottom of casserole dish. Place meat/ cream cheese mixture on top of crescent rolls. Then take the second package of crescent rolls, separate & lay on the top of the meat/ cream cheese mixture. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until crescents are lightly browned.

Recipe courtesy - Becky F of Kentucky

Garlic Parmesan Chicken

2011-09-27T14:55:00.000-04:00

Ingredients
1/2 c butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 c dry bread crumbs
1/2 c Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp dried parsley
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/8 tsp salt
8 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves- cut in half lengthwise

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Melt the butter over low heat and cook the garlic until tender, about 5 minutes.

In a shallow bowl, mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, pepper, and salt.

Dip each chicken breast in the garlic butter to coat, then press into the bread crumb mixture. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a 9 X 13 inch baking dish. Drizzle with any remaining butter and top with any remaining bread crumb mixture.

Bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until chicken is cooked through.

NOTE: This recipe can also be frozen. Make as directed until baking. Freeze flat on foil lined baking sheets; transfer to freezer bags when frozen. To serve: Bake as directed increasing the bake time to 45 minutes and 400 degrees. Cover the dish with foil, uncovering the last 10 minutes to "crisp."

Baked Potatoes in the Crockpot

2011-09-27T11:08:00.001-04:00

Ingredients

Potatoes

1/2 can-1 can chicken broth

Garlic Pepper

Directions

Place potatoes in the crockpot. Pour chicken broth over the potatoes. Sprinkle Garlic Pepper on top. Cook on low in crockpot all day.

Such an easy way to make baked potatoes. When I make them, I fill the crockpot pretty full- baked potatoes one night, then you can peel and mash potatoes, cube potatoes to make buttered, parsley potatoes.... No fuss cooking with plenty of potatoes for another meal or two.

Beef and Noodles

2011-09-21T00:08:00.000-04:00

Another great recipe from my sister, Becky. I love cooking in the crock pot, especially in the fall and winter.

Ingredients
1 lb Stew Meat (more if you like, I usually use 1 1/2 lbs)
1 lg can cream of chicken soup
1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup Mix
3/4 can of water, more or less depending on how thick or thin you want.
1 bag of noodles, cooked

Directions
Mix everything together, except the noodles. Cook on high for 5 hours or on low for 8 hours. Add the cooked noodles during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.

Recipe courtesy - Becky F of Kentucky

Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot

2011-09-20T23:41:00.000-04:00

My sister made this recipe last week and sent it to me. I am a hug fan of dumplings so I made this right away. It was absolutely delicious and the kids loved it.

Ingredients
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp butter
2 cans of cream of chicken soup
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 lg package of Pillsbury buttermilk biscuits
1 chicken bouillon cube crushed (put in sandwich bad and smash)
1 can of chicken broth

Directions
Spray crock pot with cooking spray. Mix cream of chicken and mushroom soups and crushed bouillon cube together. Put chicken and butter in crock pot. Pour mixed soup over chicken. Pour chicken broth over everything. Cook on high for 5 hours. Pinch off biscuits into crock pot and let cook until they are done.

Recipe courtesy - Becky F of Kentucky

Taco Hot Pockets

2011-09-20T23:27:00.000-04:00

This is a recipe Michelle's friend made for her during a Freezer Meal Swap. (Here's how it worked - 3 of them cooked 4 meals, but prepared it for 3 families and then they traded! GENIUS!) This meal was a huge hit at her house! It smelled amazing as it baked (and these can be baked frozen).

Ingredients
1 lb Ground Beef (I used Jenni O's Ground Turkey from Sam’s Club)
1 lg onion, chopped
2 c shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 c salsa
1 can (4oz) chopped green chilies (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp hot pepper sauce (optional)
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground cumin
3 tubes (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls
Chives, sour cream, and pico de gallo

Directions
In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in cheese, salsa, chilies, garlic powder, hot pepper sauce, salt and cumin. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into 12 rectangles. Place on ungreased baking sheets; press perforations to seal. Place 1/2 cup meat mixture in the center of each rectangle. Bring four corners to the center and pinch to seal. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes. Serve desired amount with garnishes. Cool remaining. Freeze baked Taco Pockets for up to 3 months in a heavy duty freezer plastic bag.

To use frozen taco pockets
Bake frozen pockets on an ungreased baking sheet at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes. Serve with garnishes.

Yield 12 servings

From Taste of Home Fall Freezer Meals

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

2011-09-20T20:34:00.002-04:00

Sauce Ingredients

2 small cans tomato sauce
1/4 c Worcestershire sauce
1/2 chopped onion
1 tbs dried parsley
1/2 c sugar
Mix all sauce ingredients in bowl; set aside.

Meatball Ingredients
2.5 lb ground turkey or beef
1/2 chopped onion
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 c (or more if needed), quick oatmeal (NOT instant)
1 tsp garlic pepper
1/3 of the sauce mixture above
1 can chicken broth

Directions
In another bowl, add ground beef, 1/2 chopped onion, eggs, oatmeal, garlic pepper, and 1/3 of the sauce mixture. Mix together well. Roll into meatballs. Put in crockpot adding a can of chicken broth on top to cover. Cook on high 4-5 hours. Drain and pour sauce on top, cooking for an additional 2 hours on low. Reserve some sauce for adding when served.

(The oatmeal disappears, is healthy, and you can't taste it.)

NOTE: Serve what you would like to that day and freeze the others in freezer bags for a quick reheat meal another day. I like these served over egg noodles.

Egg, Bacon, and Cheese Wraps

2011-09-17T09:44:00.006-04:00

Ingredients
4 eggs
2 tbsp milk
1 c (4 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
4 strips bacon, crumbled (I love the precooked bacon at Sam's Club)
salt & pepper
2 whole wheat tortillas (you can use flour)

Directions
Cook bacon to your desired crispness. Place to the side. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and salt and pepper. Spray a large skillet, with cooking spray and preheat. Add egg mixture; cook and stir over medium heat until eggs are completely cooked. Lay out tortillas, sprinkle cheese, egg mixture, and add crumbled bacon down the center of each tortilla. Roll up.

These can be served immediately, or wrap in plastic wrap and freeze in a freezer bag.

To serve frozen
Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove plastic wrap; wrap tortilla in a moist paper towel. Microwave on 30-60 seconds or until heated through. Serve immediately.

OR

Take out of freezer frozen, unwrap, place in moist paper towel. Heat in microwave for 2 minutes.

NOTE: When I make these, I multiply the recipe X5 so that I can freeze a bunch at once.

Easy Slow Cooker Swiss Steak

2011-09-16T23:08:00.006-04:00

I really love when food smells delicious as it cooks. It's even better when it is cooking all day in the crock pot. This Swiss steak made my mouth water all day and I was not disappointed when I tasted it. The family also loved it.

Ingredients
2 lb boneless beef chuck eye roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 c A.1. steak sauce
1 Onion, sliced
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
2 tbsp flour
1/4 c water
Cooked egg noodles

Directions
Toss meat with steak sauce. Place in crock pot. Top with sliced onion and diced tomatoes. Cook on low 9 to 10 hours or 4 to 5 hours. Mix flour and water. Stir into meat mixture and cook, covered for 5 minutes or until sauce is thickened. Stir occasionally. Serve with hot cooked egg noodles.

Recipe courtesy - Kraft

Pumpkin Cookies

2011-08-28T22:16:00.003-04:00

Two of my favorite things - cookies and pumpkin. You put them together and that sounds like a great fall treat. Thanks to Brooke for sending me this recipe. I can't wait to try these.

Ingredients
Cookies
1 c shortening
1 c white sugar
1 c pumpkin
1 egg
2 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 c raisins, optional

Frosting
3 tbsp butter
4 tsp milk
1/2 c brown sugar
1 c powdered sugar
1 tsp maple flavoring

Directions
Cookies- Cream shortening and sugar. Add pumpkin and mix. Add egg and mix well. Add dry ingredients and mix until well blended. Drop by spoonful onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

Frosting- Melt butter over stove. Add milk and brown sugar until it dissolves. Remove from stove and add powdered sugar and maple flavoring. Spread over warm cookies.

Recipe courtesy - Brooke C of Oklahoma

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

2011-08-28T21:59:00.003-04:00

This recipe knocked one out of the park. First, the smell coming from the oven was almost too much to take. Then when we tasted it....yummy, yummy.

Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1/3 c ketchup
2 tbsp yellow mustard
1 c shredded cheddar cheese
8 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled
4 c frozen bite-size tator tots

Directions
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Brown meat with onion in a skillet. Drain. Stir in ketchup and mustard. Spoon into a 9-inch square baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. Top with remaining ingredients. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until casserole is heated through and tator tots are golden brown. Note- I used ground chuck and turkey bacon.

Recipe courtesy - Kraft food and family

Gluten Free Mixture - Flour Substitute

2011-08-28T21:49:00.001-04:00

I have a couple friends who have a gluten restrictive diet. I have asked them to share their recipes with me. This one comes from Carmen. She uses this as a flour substitute.

Ingredients
2 1/2 c rice flour
1 c potato starch flour
1 c tapioca flour
1/4 c garbanzo bean flour
1/4 c cornstarch
2 1/2 tbsp xanthan gum

Directions
Mix all ingredients together.

Some tips from Carmen - I store it in the freezer in a ziploc bag. I use brown rice flour because it offers more vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The potato starch flour is used to help baked foods have a lighter texture and maintain moisture. Tapioca flour is used to lighten bake goods and help them brown. It also makes the items a little chewy. Garbanzo bean flour adds protein. Cornstarch has no nutritional value but helps with texture. Xanthan (pronouned zan-thun) gum helps hold the baked goods together. Can substitute unflavored gelatin for xanthan gum. If the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum use 2 teaspoons of unflavored gelatin. Xanthan gum runs about $14 per pound. I keep it in the fridge and a pound lasts about a year for me.

Recipe courtesy - Carmen O of Georgia

Gluten Free Peanut Butter Cookies

2011-08-28T21:37:00.003-04:00

Thanks to my friend Lisa for sending me a gluten free cookie recipe. I am always looking for new recipes especially ones for restricted diets.

Ingredients
1 c peanut butter
1 c sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients together. Scoop and roll into balls. Place onto a cookie sheet 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with a fork. Bake 8-10 minutes. You can also dip one end into melted chocolate.

Recipe courtesy - Lisa B of Tennessee

Tomato Cucumber Salad

2011-08-20T21:13:00.005-04:00

Ingredients
Tomatoes, diced
Cucumbers, slightly peeled and diced
Olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Sea salt
Pepper
Italian seasoning

Directions
Place tomatoes and cucumbers in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Sprinkle with sea salt, pepper and Italian seasoning. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Pesto Spinach Pasta

2011-07-25T16:07:00.003-04:00

I created this last night and it was delicious. You could serve as a main dish or even as a side dish. You could also add sliced chicken breast. It is very versatile. Be creative - your taste buds will love you.

Ingredients
2-3 c dry whole grain bow tie pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp basil pesto
2 c baby spinach
1/3 c shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper

Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain water. Add olive oil and toss well. Add pesto and toss well. Add spinach and allow to wilt slightly. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add mozzarella cheese and cover until cheese melts.

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

2011-07-11T22:48:00.003-04:00

These were delicious and easy to make. And what's even better is it makes one casserole for the freezer. I did not use the diced tomatoes with green chilies because I don't care for green chilies. I used the petite diced tomatoes instead.

Ingredients
1 rotisserie chicken
2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) diced tomatoes with mild green chilies, undrained
2 cans (10-3/4 ounces each) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cheddar cheese soup, undiluted
1/4 cup 2% milk
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp dried oregano
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
20 flour tortillas (8 inches), warmed
4 c shredded Mexican cheese blend

Directions
Shred chicken and set aside. In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, soups, milk and seasonings. Transfer 3-1/2 cups to another bowl; add chicken and cream cheese.
Spread 1/4 cup soup mixture into each of two greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dishes. Place 1/3 cup chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll up and place seam side down in baking dishes. Pour remaining soup mixture over tops; sprinkle with cheese.
Bake one casserole, uncovered, at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted. Cover and freeze remaining casserole for up to 3 months. I wrote out the instructions below and taped them to the outside of the casserole before putting in the freezer.

To use frozen casserole: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Cover and bake at 350° for 45 minutes. Uncover; bake 5-10 minutes longer or until heated through and cheese is melted.

Yield: 2 casseroles (5 servings each).

Recipe courtesy- Simple Delicious

Sweet Vidalia Pimento Cheese

2011-07-11T20:52:00.003-04:00

I love pimento cheese. I found a recipe on a bag of Vidalia onions & played with it slightly to come up with this one. It is really good & simple.

Ingredients
4 c freshly grated cheddar cheese (I used mild but you can use sharp)
1 small Vidalia onion, about 1/2 cup
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 c plus 2 tbsp chopped pimentos
3/4 - 1 c mayonnaise (start with 3/4 cup & add more if needed)

Directions
Place all ingredients into bowl of food processor fitted with a metal blade. Pulse until blended to desired texture- should be a little chunky. Refrigerate until ready to use. Serve on a sandwich or with crackers or fresh veggies.

Parmesan Squash Saute

2011-07-10T17:24:00.002-04:00

I love summer veggies especially zucchini and squash. I created this as one way to enjoy them as a fresh, yummy side dish.

Ingredients
Zucchini, sliced
Squash, sliced
2 tbsp Olive oil
Parmesan
Salt and pepper

Directions
In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add sliced veggies and saute until crisp tender. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and Parmesan to taste.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken

2011-07-10T13:57:00.003-04:00

Here is a new recipe from my friend Michelle. She said her kids loved it (even her one daughter who usually hates meat). Looks yummy!

Ingredients
1/2 c butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 c dry bread crumbs
1/2 c freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp dried parsley
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/8 tsp salt
8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

Directions
1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2.Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, and cook the garlic until tender, about 5 minutes.
3.In a shallow bowl, mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, pepper, and salt. 4.Dip each chicken breast in the garlic butter to coat, then press into the bread crumb mixture. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Drizzle with any remaining butter and top with any remaining bread crumb mixture.
5.Bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.

Recipe courtesy: Michelle R of Ohio

Caramelitas

2011-06-27T10:59:00.002-04:00

Ingredients
1 c + 3 tbsp flour
1 c quick oats
3/4 c brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tbsp salt
3/4 c butter, melted
1 (12.25 oz.) jar caramel topping
1 (6 oz.) pkg. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 c walnuts

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine 1 cup flour and next 5 ingredients. Beat at low speed until well mixed. Pat evenly into ungreased 9" x 13" pan. Bake 10 minutes. Stir topping and 3 tablespoons flour until mixed. Remove pan from oven, sprinkle chocolate chips and nuts on cake. Drizzle caramel topping on top of nuts and chips. Return to oven. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until brown. Cool before cutting into bars, 2 1/2". Yield: 3 dozen bars.

Recipe Courtesy: Tammy M of Georgia

Oatmeal Pancakes

2011-05-22T16:13:00.002-04:00

This recipe comes from my friend Lisa. These pancakes sound so delicious. She said they passed the palate test of her two kids. I can't wait to make them.

Ingredients
1/2 c regular flour
1/2 c wheat flour
1 c quick oats (optional: can grind in food processor for finner consistency)
2 tbsp brown sugar
3 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 c milk
2 tsp vanilla
4 tbsp applesauce
2 eggs

Directions
Mix together and drop by ladle full in a skillet coated with non-stick cooking spray heated to between medium and medium-high (depending on how your stove runs). Flip when bubbles appear and start to pop.

Recipe courtesy - Lisa B of Tennessee

Tuscan Soup

2011-05-14T23:07:00.004-04:00

Ingredients

1 small onion, chopped

3 small carrots, sliced

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp minced garlic

32 oz chicken broth

1 c water

3/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

15 oz can white kidney or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

2/3 c spiral pasta

3 c thinly sliced spinach

Parmesan cheese

Directions

In a large saucepan, saute onion, carrots and garlic in oil until onion is tender. Add the broth, water, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Stir in beans and pasta. Return to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. Add spinach and cook until just wilted. Serve with a few sprinkles of Parmesan cheese.

Corn on the Cob

2011-05-14T22:48:00.002-04:00

We love fresh picked corn on the cob. I will cook it one of two ways - boil on the stove or grill it. This is my favorite boil method. This makes the best tasting corn. The kernels pop right off the cob into your mouth. Super yummy.

Ingredients

Fresh ears of corn

1/4 c sugar

Water

Butter

Directions

Shuck the ears of corn and remove the silk. Rinse ears with cold water. Place all ears of corn in a large pot. Add water to the pot. Be sure you add enough water to allow the corn to float freely. Add sugar to water. Place pot on stove and bring to boil. Once the water boils, cover the pot and boil for 8 minutes - no longer. Remove pot, drain water and serve the corn with butter and salt.

Oatmeal Craisin Cookies

2011-05-04T22:45:00.004-04:00

These are my sister's famous oatmeal craisin cookies. They are delicious. Her husband makes a special request for these very cookies.

Ingredients
1 c butter, softened
1 1/2 c brown sugar
1/2 c sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups oats
1 cup pecans
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup white chocolate chips

Directions
Cream together the butter, brown sugar, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Add flour, baking soda, salt and oats. Stir well. Then add pecans, cranberries and chips. Stir well. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

Recipe courtesy - Becky F of Kentucky

Honey Bun Cake

2011-05-04T00:06:00.002-04:00

You must try this cake. It reminds me of a crumb cake that people would eat with their coffee. It is so yummy. I promise everyone will fall in love with this cake. I did the first time I tasted it at my friend Brandee's house. Yummy, yummy, yummy.

Ingredients
Cake
1 yellow cake mix
4 eggs
3/4 c cooking oil
2/3 c water
1 c sour cream
1 c brown sugar
3 tsp cinnamon

Glaze
4 tbsp milk
2 c powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Directions
Mix cake mix, eggs, oil, water and sour cream. In a separate bowl mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour half of the cake batter into a greased 9 x 13 pan. Sprinkle half of sugar mixture and swirl it into the batter. Pour remaining batter into pan and sprinkle with remaining sugar mix. Swirl it. Bake at 325 degrees for approximately 40 minutes. To make the glaze, combine the milk, powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Pour glaze over the "hot" cake.

Recipe courtesy - Brandee G of Georgia

Pineapple Casserole

2011-05-03T23:45:00.003-04:00

I must admit I was a little skeptical about trying a pineapple casserole. My friend Brandee made it for a cookout we had at their house. I really, really liked it. Thanks Brandee for making it.

Ingredients
20 oz crushed or bits pineapple in juice
1 1/2 c shredded cheddar cheese
3 tbsp flour
1/2 c sugar
6 tbsp pineapple juice
1/2 stick butter, melted
1 stack regular Ritz crackers, crushed

Directions
Butter baking dish. Drain pineapple into a separate bowl to reserve the juice. In a large bowl, mix the flour, pineapple juice, and sugar. Place the drained pineapple in a 1 quart baking dish. Cover the pineapple with the flour/sugar/juice mix. Top with cheddar cheese. Toss the Ritz crumbs with the melted butter. Then cover the top of the casserole with the crumb mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

Recipe courtesy - Brandee G of Georgia

Rosemary Chicken with Vegetables

2011-04-26T23:02:00.006-04:00

We love pasta in our house. There are so many ways to make a good pasta dish. This one is no exception. I loved the zucchini and squash mixed in with the pasta.

Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 medium yellow squash, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1/2 c apple juice
1/2 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
2 tbsp dry white wine or chicken broth
2 tsp cornstarch
1 c halved cherry or grape tomatoes
Cooked linguine

Directions
Sprinkle chicken with lemon pepper seasoning. In a large skillet, cook chicken in hot oil over medium heat for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink. Remove chicken and keep warm. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and keep warm. Add garlic to skillet. Cook for 15 seconds. Add zucchini, squash, apple juice and rosemary. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 2 minutes. In a small bowl, stir together wine and cornstarch; add to skillet. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook for 2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes. Serve vegetables and pasta with chicken.

Teriyaki Chicken

2011-04-26T22:34:00.002-04:00

I made this for dinner tonight. It was so delicious. The teriyaki sauce was so full of flavor and perfect over the rice.

Ingredients
3-5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3/4 c sugar
3/4 c soy sauce
6 tbsp apple cider vinegar
3/4 tsp ground ginger
3/4 tsp minced garlic
1/4 tsp pepper
4 1/2 tsp cornstarch
4 1/2 tsp cold water
Cooked rice

Directions
Place chicken in crockpot. In a large bowl, combine the sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and pepper. Pour over chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until chicken is tender. Remove chicken and keep warm. Skim fat from cooking juices. Transfer juices to a small saucepan. Bring liquid to a boil. Combine cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually stir into the pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Serve chicken and sauce with rice.

Crockpot Lima Beans and Chicken

2011-04-26T22:04:00.003-04:00

My family loves lima beans. This is a delicious recipe for the crockpot. If you like for your dinner to be ready when you get home and also with very little fuss then you must try this recipe. I am certain you will love it as much as we did.

Ingredients
3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
salt and pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
2 large potatoes, cut in 1-inch cubes
1 package frozen lima beans, thawed
1 c chicken broth
1/4 tsp dried leaf thyme, crumbled

Directions

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in large skillet; fry chicken until browned on both sides. Place chicken in crockpot with remaining ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, until chicken is tender.

White Chocolate Bird Nests

2011-04-23T00:15:00.004-04:00

Ingredients
2 - 10 oz packages of white baking chips
10 oz package pretzel sticks
25 Peeps
Pastel MM's or jelly beans

Directions
Melt white baking chips - set aside 1/2 cup. Stir pretzel sticks into chocolate until well coated. Scoop 25 nests onto waxed paper: use two forts to arrange coated pretzels into a 3-inch circle.
Dip a Peep candy into melted chocolate and place onto each nest. Use melted chocolate to attach candy ''eggs''.

Recipe courtesy - Rebecca L of Ohio

Paula Deen's Banana-Chocolate Gorilla Bread

2011-04-22T23:48:00.002-04:00

My cousin Pam sent this to me. Now I wish I had all of these ingredients to make this for breakfast tomorrow.

Ingredients
3 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 c light brown sugar, packed
8 tbsp butter (1 stick)
2 tubes refrigerated crescent roll dough (12 ounces)
3 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
2 bananas, sliced 1/4-inch to make thick 48 slices
4 ounces semisweet chocolate chips (about 2/3 cup)
1 1/2 c walnuts, chopped

Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a Bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon. In a small saucepan, melt the brown sugar with the butter over low heat.
Break open the crescent roll packages and separate the triangles of dough. Brush each triangle with sweetened condensed milk and top with 2 banana slices and 1 teaspoon chocolate chips; fold the edges of the triangle together and seal. Sprinkle each with 1/4 teaspoon of the cinnamon sugar.
Place half of the walnuts in the pan and top with half of the dough packets. Pour half of the brown sugar-butter mixture over the dough and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of the cinnamon sugar. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Bake for 1 hour, until puffed, golden brown, and firm to the touch. Transfer the pan to a rack and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Place a platter on top of the pan and invert. Serve warm...

Recipe courtesy - Pam of Arizona

Peanut Butter Cake

2011-04-22T23:21:00.002-04:00

My friend Tammy and I have this serious need for chocolate and peanut butter. I really think it is what has held our friendship together for more than 15 years. I am just kidding, but we really do love, love, love it. When she sent me this recipe, I was ready to make it on the spot. I made the cake a few days later. I seriously fell on the floor when I took a taste of the icing. It should be illegal in all 50 states. It's that good.

Ingredients
Chocolate cake mix
2 c powdered sugar
1/4 c milk or cream
1/4 c of butter, softened
1/2 c peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla
Mini Reese Cups or chopped regular size Reese Cups for decoration

Directions
Bake the cake in 2 round pans according to package directions. Remove from oven. Cool on wire racks. When I made this cake, I made a double recipe of icing. If you decide to just make a 9x13 size cake then you won't need to double. Mix all of the ingredients until fluffy and desired consistency. You can add more milk or cream if you want it to be more smooth. Ice the cakes and garnish with the Reese Cups. Serve to as few people as possible so you can have more for yourself - lol.

Recipe courtesy - Tammy of Virginia

Angel Lush

2011-03-30T23:06:00.003-04:00

This was dessert for Home Team tonight. I brought home an empty dish....enough said.

Ingredients
1 - 20 oz can crushed pineapple,undrained
1 - 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding
1 c non-dairy whipped topping, thawed
1 round angel food cake, cut into 3 layers
Fresh strawberries

Directions
Mix pineapple and dry pudding mix. Gently stir in whipped topping. Stack layers on plate, spreading pudding mixture between layers and on top of cake. Refrigerate for at least one hour. Top with strawberries.

Lentil and Potato Stew

2011-03-30T22:32:00.006-04:00

This stew was so hearty and full of flavor. The lentils were perfectly cooked. If you have never tried lentils, this is a very good recipe to try.

Ingredients

1 medium onion, chopped
3 medium carrots, chopped
2 tsp olive oil
4 tsp chili powder
2 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp dried oregano
1 carton (32 ounces) vegetable broth
3/4 cup dried lentils, rinsed
1 large can crushed tomatoes
3-1/2 c frozen cubed hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Directions
In a Dutch oven, saute onion and carrots in oil until tender. Add the chili powder, garlic, and oregano; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in broth and lentils. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 18-22 minutes or until lentils are tender. Stir in the tomatoes, potatoes, beans, salt and pepper. Return to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 10-15 minutes longer or until potatoes are tender.

Marinated Flank Steak

2011-03-28T10:53:00.003-04:00

This marinade was so delicious. The lemon juice helps break down beef that can normally be tough. You could use this on any type of steak, but it is wonderful for those tougher cuts. The flavor of the steak, after marinating all night, was tremendous.

Ingredients
3 tbsp canola oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tbsp Greek seasoning
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp onion powder
1 1/2 lb beef flank steak

Directions
In a large Ziploc bag, combine the first seven ingredients; add the steak. Seal bag and marinate in the refrigerator for 6 hours or overnight. Grill steak over medium heat until desired doneness. To serve, thinly slice across the grain.

Paula Deen's Creamy Mashed Potatoes

2011-03-25T11:09:00.002-04:00

This recipe was made by my friend Carmen and I know anything by Paula Deen is delicious.

Ingredients
1 (5-pound) bag red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
3/4 c sour cream
1/2 c butter, softened
1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Directions
In a large Dutch oven, combine potatoes and water to cover. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat, and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Drain well.
In a large bowl, combine potatoes, sour cream, butter, cream cheese, salt and pepper. Using a potato masher, mash potatoes to desired consistency.

Recipe courtesy - Carmen O of Georgia and Paula Deen

Roasted Chicken and Veggies

2011-03-17T23:44:00.003-04:00

I just love how my version of roasted chicken turned out. It was tasty and moist. The vegetables were also very good roasted. They all tasted good but we really loved the asparagus and carrots.

Ingredients
1 roasting chicken - can be whole or cut-up
3 tbsp lemon juice
2-3 tbsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
3-4 potatoes
5-6 carrots, cut into chunks
3-4 celery stalks, cut into chunks
1 bunch of asparagus
1 onion, quartered
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp lemon juice

Directions
Remove chicken from packaging. On the day I made this, I used a whole chicken that was already cut-up because it was on sale. You can use also use a whole chicken. Pat chicken dry. Place chicken on a rack in a foil-lined, shallow roasting pan. Sprinkle lemon juice all over chicken. Rub garlic all over chicken. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 1 1/2 hours. Baste occasionally with pan juices. In a large bowl, toss all vegetables with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Place vegetables around and on top of chicken. Bake for an additional hour. Cover loosely with foil and allow to rest about 10 minutes before serving.

Herbed Potato Fans

2011-03-17T22:58:00.001-04:00

Not only are these totally cool looking, they are super easy to make. The kids loved them. The mixture of the herbs, olive oil and white wine gave the potatoes an amazing taste. Delicious.

Ingredients

2 baking potatoes

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp white wine or chicken broth

1/4 tsp salt

1/8 tsp dried parsley flakes

1/8 tsp thyme, crushed

1/8 tsp rosemary, crushed

1/8 tsp pepper

Green onions, optional

Sour cream or plain yogurt, optional

Directions

With a sharp knife, cut each potato into 1/2 inch slices, leaving slices attached at the bottom. Place on a microwave safe plate. Combine the oil, wine and seasonings. Drizzle over potatoes. Microwave, covered with paper towels, for 8-12 minutes or until tender. Garnish with onions and/or sour cream or yogurt. I garnished mine with plain low-fat yogurt.

Recipe adapted from Simple and Delicious

Dinner Muffins

2011-03-17T22:25:00.002-04:00

These are the quickest, yummiest dinner muffins I have ever tasted. Yes, they are a muffin not a roll. You will have the ingredients on hand so throw these together for your next meal.

Ingredients
2 c self rising flour
1/4 c mayonnaise - do not substitute
1 1/4 c milk

Directions
Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 12 count regular-size muffin pan. In a mixing bowl, combine flour with mayonnaise and milk. Stir until smooth. Do not over mix. Divide mixture evenly into the muffin pan. Bake for 15 minutes and serve warm. Don't forget the real butter.

Meal Planning...Simplified

2011-03-11T23:31:00.003-05:00

Here are some of the things on my new menu. Simply click on the item to view the recipe.

Hamburgers

Pathetically Painless Pulled Pork

Slow Cooked Cabbage Rolls

Chicken Kabobs

Little Slugger Chili Mac

Spaghetti & Meatballs

Breakfast Night

Sweet 'n Sour Chicken Crockpot

Pizza

Oreo "Dirt" Pudding

2011-03-09T13:54:00.004-05:00

This is an old standby dessert that everyone loves. When I went to find my recipe here on the blog, I was shocked to find I hadn't posted it yet (with as many recipes as I have - that happens a lot). I know some people like to put gummy worms on the top or put the dessert in flower pots. I like mine just plain, but feel free to make it more fun.

Ingredients
1 pkg Oreo cookies, crushed fine in blender or food processor
2 (8 oz) pkg cream cheese, softened
2 c powdered sugar
3 c milk
2 small boxes instant vanilla pudding
2 tsp vanilla
12 oz whipped topping

Directions

Mix cream cheese & sugar. Add milk, pudding mix & vanilla. Mix until smooth (no lumps). Allow to sit about 5 minutes then fold in whipped topping. Layer cookies, then pudding mixture. Repeat until you end with cookies on top. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Garden Penne

2011-03-04T00:06:00.006-05:00

I was inspired to create this recipe from a pasta box. As you can tell from the picture it was delicious. And what is really fun is you can add whatever veggies you like.

Ingredients

1 box whole grain Penne

2 tbsp olive oil

1-2 tbsp minced garlic

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

1 large zucchini, diced

1 medium squash, diced

1 bunch asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 pint grape tomatoes, halved

2-3 c baby spinach

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 fresh basil leaves, torn

Parmesan cheese

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add garlic and stir for one minute. Add onion and saute for 4-5 minutes. Add bell pepper, squash, zucchini and asparagus. Saute until heated but not completely cooked. Add tomatoes and spinach. Season with salt and pepper. Saute for an additional 2 minutes. Drain pasta and toss with vegetables and basil. Serve and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Italian Bean Soup

2011-03-03T23:45:00.005-05:00

/>I saw this recipe in a magazine. I changed a couple things - added more orzo and more spinach. This soup is so tasty. There is so much flavor going on that you will forget it doesn't have meat. It tasted even better the next day, as most soups do.

Ingredients
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 small potato, peeled and finely chopped
1 celery rib, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 can (15 ounces) white kidney or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Italian stewed tomatoes, undrained
1/4 c minced fresh parsley
1 tbsp prepared pesto
1/2 c uncooked orzo pasta
2-3 c fresh baby spinach
1/4 cup grated Romano cheese

Directions
In a large pot, saute the onion, potato, celery and garlic in oil until tender. Stir in the broth, beans, tomatoes, parsley and pesto. Bring to a boil. Stir in pasta. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until pasta is tender. Add spinach and cook just until wilted. Sprinkle each serving with cheese.

Sweet Potato Fries

2011-02-28T15:56:00.004-05:00

My friend Carmen sent this recipe to me. And she doesn't even know how much I love sweet potatoes. These are super easy.

Ingredients
1 lb Sweet potatoes
1/4 c Olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt

Directions
Preheat oven to 475 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut sweet potatoes crosswise on a slight diagonal into 3/8 inch slices. Cut each slice lengthwise into 1/4 inch wide sticks - about 2 inches long. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and salt. Spread sticks out in one layer on baking sheet, scraping all the oil and salt from the bowl onto them. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping once or twice more, until fries are nicely browned, about another 10 minutes.

Recipe courtesy - Carmen O of Georgia

Meal Planning...Simplified

2011-02-25T15:01:00.005-05:00

As requested...my menu plans for the coming week. You can click for recipes.

Grilled NY Strip steaks, Herbed Potato Fans [new recipe...coming soon], and southern green beans

Pot Roast and Gravy, mashed potatoes and sweet corn

Italian Bean Soup

Chicken and Veggie Fried Rice

Garden Penne

Wedding Soup

Brenda's Manicotti, Salad and Foil Garlic Bread

Roasted Chicken with Veggies [new recipe...coming soon]

Home Team Dessert - Peanut Butter Crispy Bars

Brenda's Manicotti

2011-02-22T21:36:00.002-05:00

My cousin's wife, Brenda, sent me this recipe. She has been making this for years. I love anything Italian and this is no exception.

Ingredients

1/4 c chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp cooking oil
1 14-1/2-ounce can tomatoes, cut up
1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried oregano, crushed
1/4 tsp dried thyme, crushed
1 small bay leaf
8 dried manicotti shells
2 beaten eggs
2 c shredded mozzarella cheese (8 ounces)
1-1/2 c ricotta cheese or cream-style cottage cheese
1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 c snipped fresh parsley
1/2 tsp dried oregano, crushed
Dash pepper

Directions
1. For sauce, in a 2-quart saucepan cook onion and garlic in hot oil until tender. Add undrained tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, the 1 teaspoon oregano, the thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 20 to 25 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat; discard bay leaf.

2. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Rinse shells in cold water.

3. For filling, in a medium mixing bowl stir together eggs, half of the mozzarella cheese, the ricotta or cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, the 1/2 teaspoon oregano, and dash pepper. Spoon filling into manicotti.

4. Pour half of the tomato mixture into a 2-quart rectangular baking dish. Arrange stuffed manicotti in the baking dish. Pour remaining sauce over shells. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese atop.

5. Bake the stuffed manicotti, covered, in a 350 degree F oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until heated through. Makes 8 servings.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare as above, except do not bake. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as above.

Shepherd's Pie

2011-02-22T21:15:00.005-05:00

This recipe comes courtesy of my mom's local television station. She and my dad love Shepherd's Pie. It is absolutely delicious. Look below the recipe to see step by step pictures.

Ingredients
2 lbs cooked chopped roast lamb or ground beef
1 medium finely chopped onion
2 c brown gravy
Salt and pepper
4 c mashed potato, prepared with milk and seasonings as desired
1/8 tsp paprika
1 tbsp butter
16 oz frozen peas and carrots

Directions
Combine cooked meat, gravy, and chopped onion; season with salt and pepper to taste. Line the bottom of a buttered baking dish with a layer of peas and carrots then half of the seasoned mashed potatoes. Add meat mixture then cover with remaining mashed potatoes. Dot mashed potato topping with butter, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika, then bake for about 30 minutes at 400°, or until potato topping is browned and the Shepherd's pie is thoroughly heated. This shepherd's pie recipe serves 6.

Milky Way Cake

2011-02-17T23:32:00.004-05:00

I want to apologize for the photo. It was taken with my phone. I had every intention of taking a better one with my camera, but when I took the cake to our home team at church the entire cake was eaten. Yes, it was that good. My favorite part was the edge because the caramel from the candy bars became slightly crunchy and it was so delicious.

Ingredients

1 yellow cake mix

6 Milky Way candy bars

1 stick of butter

Directions

Preheat oven according to the guidelines on the cake mix package. Grease and flour a bundt pan. I use Baker's Joy. Mix cake according to package directions. Melt candy bars and butter in microwave. Mix well. Add candy bars and butter to cake mix. Mix well. Pour into the prepared bundt pan. Bake according to the directions on the cake mix package. Remove from oven. Cool on wire rack for 10 minutes then invert and remove cake from pan. Serve warm or cooled.

Kitchen Gadget

2011-02-15T21:31:00.003-05:00

My new favorite kitchen gadget is a cutting mat, but not just one mat....four colorful mats. These were purchased in a pack of four at my local Publix. I am in love with these. They are small, flexible and easy to clean. I love having so many mats to use when I prepare a meal. I don't have to worry about cleaning a cutting board in between cutting and dicing all of my ingredients.

Old Fashioned Pancakes

2011-02-14T21:23:00.003-05:00

I have to admit, this was the first time I ever made homemade pancakes. I will also admit, I will never make them any other way again. These were the best tasting pancakes I ever had. The family loved them a lot. They are just as easy as a batter mix so there is no reason not to make them this way. I hope you will try them too.

Ingredients
1 1/2 c all purpose flour
3 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 1/4 c milk
1 egg
3 tbsp butter, melted

Directions
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk, egg and melted butter; mix until smooth. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Brown on both sides and serve hot.

Tip of the Day

2011-02-14T15:03:00.002-05:00

Save money by making your own cinnamon sugar mix. Simply mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Add to a spice jar and gently shake to mix. I saved the spice jar shaker from cinnamon sugar I purchased from the store. Now I always have my cinnamon sugar handy and I save money.

White Chicken Chili

2011-02-14T14:51:00.003-05:00

This is the first time I have ever made white chicken chili. It was so easy and quick. The family loved this. It had lots of flavor which surprised me considering how few ingredients. This is definitely a keeper.

Ingredients
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes
1 tbsp chili powder
1 (10.75 ounce) can Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
3 1/2 c water
1 pouch Dry Onion Soup and Recipe Mix
2 (15 ounce) cans white kidney beans (cannellini)
Shredded Cheddar cheese
Sliced green onion

Directions
Heat oil in saucepan. Add chicken and chili powder and cook until browned, stirring often. Add chicken soup, water and soup mix. Heat to a boil. Cover and cook over low heat 15 minutes. Add beans and heat through. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Garnish with cheese and onions.