Author: Mike

Honey-Chipotle Glazed Ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

I’m a big fan of cooking honey-chipotle glazed ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy. The ham gets a nice roasted flavor, a bit of a crispy outside, and a super-moist inside. This time I started with a 10 pound pressed ham, which I scored (a technique I need to practice) and then glazed as it cooked. No mess, no fuss, and mighty darned good in the end. The glaze has a bit of sweet and a definite kick to it. Chipotles not only add spiciness, they add a bit of smokiness, giving the ham an almost char-grilled flavor. Fantastic!

Honey-Chipotle Glazed Ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Lots And Lots Of Ham. Everywhere!

Some of the ham I sliced thick, to eat as ham steaks. Some I chopped for omelets. And most I sliced super-thin for fantastic sandwiches. Honey-Chipotle Glazed Ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy leaves you with a bunch of ham, so you can cut it and serve it several different ways.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver
Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver

Also check out my spiral ham cooked on the Char-Broil Big Easy. Man, was it ever great too! My pepper onion beer sauce makes for a great topping for ham!

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Honey-Chipotle Glazed Ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Honey-Chipotle Glazed Ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy

I’m a big fan of cooking honey-chipotle glazed ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy. The ham gets a nice roasted flavor, a bit of a crispy outside, and a super-moist inside. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, ham
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings 16 servings
Calories 418kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Taste Of Home

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Combine the Ginger Ale, brown sugar, honey and vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Stir. Bring to a simmer and let simmer until reduced by half.
  • Add remaining ingredients and stir. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat.
  • Score the ham as desired.
  • Place into the Big Easy basket and place into the Big Easy. Total cook time will be 15 minutes per pound. 30 minutes before being done, start glazing the ham ever 5-10 minutes. You’ll end up using about half of the glaze.
  • Remove ham and let rest 10 minutes before slicing or carving.
  • Return the unused glaze to the saucepan and warm slightly to use as a gravy for the ham.

Notes

Use caution removing the ham from the Big Easy basket as it and the basket are hot!

Nutrition

Calories: 418kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 43g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 166mg | Sodium: 2679mg | Potassium: 663mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 189IU | Vitamin C: 53mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Spicy Cranberry Glazed Carrots

Carrots are proof a side dish doesn’t have to be complicated, or boring. These spicy cranberry glazed carrots are the perfect fall dish. At first glance they may look like your standard glazed carrots, but oh no, my friends, they are not. They are covered in a wonderful cranberry reduction that is sweet…. with a little heat.

Spicy Cranberry Glazed Carrots

Oh So Delicious. And Just Spicy Enough.

These spicy cranberry glazed carrots are another fantastic recipe from Chile Pepper magazine. I have been a subscriber of the magazine for years and years. Even if you’re not a chile head, or into super spicy foods, Chile Pepper magazine is still a great magazine, full of recipes (you can always tame down the heat) and product reviews and articles. If you are a chile head then, well, wait are you waiting for! Subscribe today and you won’t regret it. I love it.

If you decide to grill these carrots, I recommend that you use a grill basket. It makes cooking easier and you don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. And cleanup is easier too!

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

Also try my steamed carrots with lemon-dill vinaigrette or carrots au gratin. Or if you prefer grilled carrots (and who doesn’t!) make a big ole batch of my ginger-orange carrots.

Spicy Cranberry Glazed Carrots
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Spicy Cranberry Glazed Carrots

Carrots are proof a side dish doesn’t have to be complicated, or boring. These spicy cranberry glazed carrots are the perfect fall dish. At first glance they may look like your standard glazed carrots, but oh no, my friends, they are not
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword carrots, spicy
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 77kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Chile Pepper magazine

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

On the grill

  • Preheat grill to medium heat.
  • Place carrots in a large bowl and add the olive oil, 2 teaspoons of the pepper flake, and 1 tablespoon of the brown sugar. Toss to coat.
  • Grill for 5-10 minutes, turning once or twice, until tender, 5-10 minutes. Remove.

On the stovetop

  • Heat 1″ of water in a large skillet to a boil.
  • Add the carrots and cook until tender 5-10 minutes. Remove and drain.
  • Combine oil, 2 teaspoons of the pepper flake, and 1 tablespoon of the brown sugar. Add the carrots and toss to coat. Return to the skillet over medium heat and cook another 2-3 minutes.

For the glaze

  • Place cranberry juice and remaining 1 teaspoon of red pepper flake and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and simmer until reduced by half.
  • Place cooked carrots in a large bowl. Add cranberry juice reduction and toss to coat.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Notes

This makes for a great Thanksgiving side dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 77kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 116mg | Potassium: 412mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 19271IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush
Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush

Roasted Harissa Cauliflower

So long and goodbye to boring cauliflower. Bring on the spiciness of harissa, a Mediterranean hot chile pepper paste that is so flavorful I’m quickly finding myself using on just about everything. Rubbing the paste on a head of cauliflower and roasting it results in an unbelievably tasty side dish. The heat gets tamed a bit (but it’s still there), leaving you with a wonderful garlicky, earthy bite. Roasted harissa cauliflower is quite possibly the perfect side dish (and it’s low in carbs too!).

Roasted Harissa Cauliflower

Great On The Grill, Too

You can make the roasted Harissa cauliflower in the grill too, just place the harissa-covered head directly on a hot grill over indirect heat and cook until tender. I prefer to poke it with a long skewer to check for doneness. Specially when grilled over charcoal, the cauliflower will also get a nice light smoky flavor along with the taste of harissa. And don’t hesitate to make more than one head at a time. The leftovers are just as good as (and maybe a bit better) than the night you make them. The harissa flavors penetrate the cauliflower even more overnight. For a little citrus flavor, squeeze fresh lemon over the roasted cauliflower just before serving.

Trader Joe’s Traditional Tunisian Harissa Hot Chili Pepper Paste With Herbs & Spices, 6 oz Jar (Single)
Trader Joe’s Traditional Tunisian Harissa Hot Chili Pepper Paste With Herbs & Spices, 6 oz Jar (Single)

Also try my harissa chicken wings.

Roasted Harissa Cauliflower
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4 from 1 vote

Roasted Harissa Cauliflower

So long and goodbye to boring cauliflower. Bring on the spiciness of harissa, a Mediterranean hot chile pepper paste that is so flavorful I’m quickly finding myself using on just about everything.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword cauliflower, roasted
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 1 head
Calories 144kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375 F. You can also roast the cauliflower on a grill over indirect heat.
  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  • Remove any leaves from the bottom of the head of cauliflower but do not remove the stem.
  • Lower the head into the boiling water and return to a boil and boil for 4 minutes.
  • Remove and let cool.
  • Rub harissa paste over the cauliflower. No need to be shy.
  • Transfer the cauliflower to a sheet pan and place in the oven for 20-30 minutes until softened. I used a small sharp knife to test for doneness by poking the stem.
  • Remove and serve.

Notes

Best served immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 173mg | Potassium: 1719mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin C: 277mg | Calcium: 127mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Spiral Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Butter

These spiral sweet potatoes with pecan butter are a twist on a favorite Thanksgiving dish for us. It’s a bit sweet, a lot easy, and very tasty. You can assemble it ahead of time and cook it on-site in the oven or on a grill. I like cooking sides on the grill at Thanksgiving since it frees up the oven. The oven is always crammed full during the holidays.

Spiral Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Butter

A Few Thoughts

The sweet potatoes are cut into thin (but not too thin) spirals. They will cook faster than whole or sliced sweet potatoes, so keep an eye on them. Spiral sweet potatoes with pecan butter don’t take as long to cook as you might think. The crunchy sweet topping is absolutely fantastic. If your guests like their sides a bit on the sweet side don’t hesitate to double the topping.

If you don’t have a spiralizer you can cut the sweet potatoes into thin slices instead.

Brieftons 5-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Spiral Slicer, Best Veggie Pasta Spaghetti Maker for Low Carb/Paleo/Gluten-Free/Vegan Meals, With Extra Blade Caddy, 4 Recipe Ebooks
Brieftons 5-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Spiral Slicer, Best Veggie Pasta Spaghetti Maker for Low Carb/Paleo/Gluten-Free/Vegan Meals, With Extra Blade Caddy, 4 Recipe Ebooks

As an added bonus for us, I used pecans from my dad’s pecan trees. There’s something about his pecans that make them oh so much better than anything I’ve ever gotten from a store. Some years his trees don’t make many pecans, and some years… Yowsa! It’s like it’s raining pecans everywhere!

Also try my smoked hazelnut butter on these wonderful sweet potatoes!

Spiral Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Butter
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Spiral Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Butter

The crunchy sweet topping is absolutely fantastic. If your guests like their sides a bit on the sweet side don’t hesitate to double the topping.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword butter, pecans, sweet
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 305kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 large sweet potatoes peeled, spiraled (I used the large blade. You don’t want super thin spirals)
  • 1 large sweet onion sliced thin and separated into rings
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup pecans chopped, toasted

Instructions

  • Preheat grill to medium or oven to 425 F degrees.
  • Place potato slices and onion rings on a large sheet of aluminum foil (you might need to divide the mixture between more than one piece of foil). Drizzle with oil.
  • Place another sheet of foil over potatoes and seal along edges.
  • Place on grill or in oven for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are fork tender.
  • In a small bowl, mix the butter, sugar, salt and cinnamon. Stir in pecans.
  • Open packets and top with pecan butter. Serve.

Notes

The packets can release a little hot steam when opening so use caution.

Nutrition

Calories: 305kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 171mg | Potassium: 641mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 24357IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 67mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer Spiralizer Vegetable Slicer - Vegetable Chopper Onion Chopper Food Chopper Vegetable Spiralizer Mandoline Slicer Cutter Chopper and Grater Slicer Zucchini Spaghetti Maker
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer Spiralizer Vegetable Slicer – Vegetable Chopper Onion Chopper Food Chopper Vegetable Spiralizer Mandoline Slicer Cutter Chopper and Grater Slicer Zucchini Spaghetti Maker

Peach BBQ Beans

Yeah, this is how BBQ beans are done. When you need a big batch of beans that’ll knock everyone’s socks off, these peach BBQ beans are it. Sure, I’ve smoked baked beans before and I’ve soaked dry beans overnight and gone through all the hassle. No hassle here. Just great BBQ bean flavor, with a little sweetness from peaches added in. Nice and different, and definitely delicious.

Peach BBQ Beans

Get Fruity

If peaches aren’t your thing, substitute canned apple pie filling instead. Or make two batches. Make one batch of these beans and one batch of apple BBQ beans. You’ll amaze all of the guests at your next party.

If I’m reaching for a bottled BBQ sauce, I often go for Sweet Baby Ray’s.

Sweet Baby Ray's Varierty Pack, 1 Original Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Hickory and Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Sweet N Spicy Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Honey Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, 1CT
Sweet Baby Ray’s Varierty Pack, 1 Original Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Hickory and Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Sweet N Spicy Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Honey Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, 1CT

Also try my smokehouse beans and my smoked BBQ baked beans.

Peach BBQ Beans
Print Pin
5 from 2 votes

Peach BBQ Beans

Yeah, this is how BBQ beans are done. When you need a big batch of beans that’ll knock everyone’s socks off, these peach BBQ beans are it. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword baked beans, BBQ, peach
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 91kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Food Network

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 325 F.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the bacon and cook, stirring constantly, until the bacon starts to crisp.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Do not remove any fat in the skillet.
  • Add the bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook until softened, stirring often, 5-6 minutes.
  • Place all ingredients into a very large bowl and stir to combine well.
  • Spray a 9" x 13" baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Pour in the bean mixture and spread out evenly.
  • Bake for 1 hour or until bubbly hot. Note: If your pan is full to the brim, you might want to place a large baking dish on the oven rack below to catch any drippings that might flow over the side.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 91kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 222mg | Potassium: 97mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 343IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Downtown Roasted Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

Any day that ends in the letter ‘y’ is a good day to roast up some chicken in my Big Easy. A few hours in a flavor-packed marinade, one hour on the cooker, and we sat down to enjoy some fantastic downtown roasted chicken breasts on the Char-Broil Big Easy. The chicken is moist and tender with just a hint of spiciness and smokiness. I used bone-in chicken breasts, but any chicken cuts (or even a whole chicken) would work just fine.

Downtown Roasted Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Go Skinless

I removed the skin because the marinade is going to keep it from getting crispy. Also, no skin means that the marinade soaks in deep, making sure each bite of downtown roasted chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy is full of flavor. The marinade would also be fantastic on steaks.

When using a marinade and cooking on the Big Easy I like to lay my chicken flat so that the marinade doesn’t run off. If you are using the basket that comes with the Big Easy you can easily cook two breasts at a time. Add the bunk bed basket and you can cook four.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Also try my copycat of Boston Market’s Tuscan Herb chicken, also made on the Big Easy! For a little kick, make my Nashville hot chicken, one of my all-time favorites!

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Downtown Roasted Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Downtown Roasted Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

A few hours in a flavor-packed marinade, one hour on the cooker, and we sat down to enjoy some fantastic downtown roasted chicken breasts. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, chicken
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Servings 4 servings
Calories 364kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Aaron McCargo Jr

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts split bone-in ,skin removed

For the rub

Instructions

  • Place the chicken in large resealable bag or container.
  • Place all of the rub ingredients into a blender and process until smooth.
  • Pour marinade over chicken. Close the container and toss gently to coat.
  • Refrigerate for 1 hour.
  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Remove the chicken from the container and place into the Big Easy basket.
  • Place into cooker and cook until the chicken hits 165 F, about 1 hour.

Notes

You’ll need the Bunk Bed Basket to cook 4 or more chicken breasts at a time.

Nutrition

Calories: 364kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 50g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 5568mg | Potassium: 982mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 315IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 64mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Michigan State Spicy Spartan Hot Dog

A few years ago the Big 10 basketball tournament was held here in Indianapolis. As part of the event, the Levy restaurant group in Chicago produced unique hot dogs that highlight each of the Big 10 teams. I came across a copy of the list of the dogs recently, and just had to make each of them. These Michigan State spicy Spartan hot dogs are definitely spicy, but in a really good way. Jalapeno relish has a kick, but it’s not overwhelming at all. And since we’re doing spicy, let’s keep going by adding some spicy pepper jack cheese and spicy mustard. It’s a good heat for sure and one that will wake you up! These are not boring dogs!

Michigan State Spicy Spartan Hot Dog

No Boring Hot Dogs Here!

Although jalapeno relish looks a lot like pickled jalapenos, it’s actually a bit sweet so the heat is not that hot. Oh it’s there, don’t get me wrong.  It’s great stuff that is also fantastic on burgers and wraps. And it’s outstanding on a Michigan State Spicy Spartan hot dog.

SLOTDOG - Hot Dog Slicing Tool - Stainless Steel Cutter Blades for Kitchen, Grilling, Tailgating, Camping and Backyard Outdoor BBQ - 10 inch - Red
SLOTDOG – Hot Dog Slicing Tool – Stainless Steel Cutter Blades for Kitchen, Grilling, Tailgating, Camping and Backyard Outdoor BBQ – 10 inch – Red

For a full list of all of the Big 10 team hot dogs, click here and enjoy!

Michigan State Spicy Spartan Hot Dog
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Spicy Spartan Hot Dog

These Michigan State spicy Spartan hot dogs are definitely spicy, but in a really good way. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword hot dogs
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 298kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Levy Restaurants

Ingredients

  • 4 hot dogs
  • 4 hot dog buns
  • ¼ cup jalapeno relish
  • ¼ cup pepper jack cheese shredded
  • spicy mustard

Instructions

  • Cook or grill the dogs as desired.
  • Toast the buns, if desired (I always do).
  • Add dogs to buns.
  • Add relish, cheese and mustard and serve.

Notes

Cut a long narrow slit in your dogs before cooking to give the toppings a great place to go!

Nutrition

Calories: 298kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 911mg | Potassium: 125mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 55IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 137mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

TableCraft 3-Piece Nostalgia Squeeze Bottle Set, 12-Ounce
TableCraft 3-Piece Nostalgia Squeeze Bottle Set, 12-Ounce

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Bites

One of my favorite Thanksgiving day dishes is my grilled sweet potatoes with pecan butter. Well, my favorite has a new buddy, and it’s these bacon-wrapped sweet potato bites. Packed with fantastic savory flavors, and yes, wrapped in bacon. The bacon not only adds a fantastic smokiness, it keeps the sweet potatoes moist and tender. Sweet potatoes always need a little something and boy, is bacon ever a marriage made in heaven. Bacon makes sweet potatoes amazing, and you want to serve amazing at Thanksgiving.

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Bites

Very Different. And Very Good.

There is absolutely nothing I would change about this recipe for bacon-wrapped sweet potato bites. You can assemble the potatoes well ahead of time, refrigerate them, and cook them before enjoying your big Thanksgiving meal. They do reheat well, so you can also cook them ahead of time and just reheat for about 10-15 minutes at 350 F before serving.

You can make this dish on a grill, too. I recommend that you use a grill basket. It makes cooking easier and you don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. And cleanup is easier too!

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

Also try my Buffalo potato wedges.

This recipe was inspired by a recipe from Just a Pinch.

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Bites
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potato Bites

Packed with fantastic savory flavors, and yes, wrapped in bacon. The bacon not only adds a fantastic smokiness, it keeps the sweet potatoes moist and tender.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, sweet potatoes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 6
Calories 201kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Just a Pinch

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F.
  • Peel the potatoes.
  • Cut the potatoes into rounds that are as thick as the bacon is wide.
  • Place potatoes into a large bowl. Sprinkle with a bit of oil and toss to coat.
  • Combine the Mrs. Dash, thyme, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and pepper.
  • Sprinkle half of the spice mix over the potatoes and toss to coat.
  • Wrap a piece of bacon around each piece of potato.
  • Roll in the remaining spice mixture then secure the bacon with a toothpick.
  • Place potatoes on a baking sheet lined with a silpat or aluminum foil and sprayed with non-stick spray.
  • Bake for 30-45 minutes (depending on how thick the potatoes are) until the potatoes are nice and tender and the bacon is cooked.

Notes

These make for a great Thanksgiving side dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 201kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 282mg | Potassium: 539mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin A: 21381IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 67mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Easy Pumpkin Pull-Apart Bread

It’s pumpkin time! And that means quick, easy pumpkin pull-apart bread. Moist, pumpkin-y, cinnamon-y, and guaranteed to disappear very, very quickly. I made a ‘loaf’ for my wife to take to work (you don’t have to reheat it and it doesn’t require refrigeration if you devour it within two days, which you will) and share. It was gone in no time at all!

Easy Pumpkin Pull-Apart Bread

Use The Right Pan

The only tricky part when making this pumpkin pull-apart bread is if your bread pan is bigger than the bread. Like mine was. Your bread will fall and you’ll end up with a loaf of sadness if you let it. The solution for me was to grab a piece of foil, wad it up into a ball, and place it in the space between the end of the ‘loaf’ and the end of the bread pan. No bread sadness here, just great fall-flavor yumminess!

Halloween is my favorite day of the year! I love carving pumpkins! I admit I usually buy too many pumpkins and end up on a carving marathon the day of Halloween. By trick-or-treat time I’m worn out but it’s worth it!

Professional Pumpkin Carving Kit for Christmas Gift - Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Tools and Knives with Carrying Case (8 Pieces) - Pumpkin Carver for Adults & Kids, Pumpkin Sculpting Set
Professional Pumpkin Carving Kit for Christmas Gift – Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Tools and Knives with Carrying Case (8 Pieces) – Pumpkin Carver for Adults & Kids, Pumpkin Sculpting Set

Love pumpkin? Me too. And I love my triple-layer pumpkin spice pie too!

Easy Pumpkin Pull-Apart Bread
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Easy Pumpkin Pull-Apart Bread

It’s pumpkin time! And that means quick, easy pumpkin pull-apart bread. Moist, pumpkiny, cinnamony, and guaranteed to disappear very, very quickly. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword bread, pumpkin
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 16 servings
Calories 164kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Crazy for Crust

Equipment

Ingredients

For the pull-apart bread

For the glaze

Instructions

For the pull-apart bread

  • Preheat your oven to 350 F.
  • Spray a bread pan with non-stick spray. Note: I used a non-stick bread pan and did not have to spray it.
  • In a bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of the sugar, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice and egg.
  • In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and the cinnamon.
  • Open the can of biscuits and separate them. Cut each one in half, horizontally.
  • Sprinkle each side of each biscuit half with the sugar and cinnamon mixture.
  • Take a biscuit and liberally brush one side with the pumpkin mixture. Place into the bread pan on edge, with the non-pumpkin side towards the end.
  • Keep adding brushed biscuits into the pan, packing them in on end. They’ll look like a row of hockey pucks when you are done. When you are done, if there is extra space in your pan wad up a piece of foil and add it to keep the ‘loaf’ from falling.
  • Place into the oven and bake 20-25 minutes or until the outside is done. The internal temperature should be 190 F or more, but the insides will be gooey and soft, thanks to the pumpkin puree.
  • Let the bread cool completely before drizzling with the glaze.

For the glaze

  • Whisk together all ingredients until smooth.

Notes

You cannot substitute other types of biscuits for the Grands.

Nutrition

Calories: 164kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 278mg | Potassium: 97mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 1847IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Hawaiian ABTs

Sure, I’ve made ABTs (atomic buffalo turds) on my smoker before. They’re a great appetizer, and a great cook’s snack. They are also a great way to use up any free space you might have on your cooker when smoking ribs, pork, chicken or whatever. These Hawaiian ABTs bring a really nice sweet twist to the classic recipe for ABTs. Bacon and a bit of heat tamed by cream cheese and pineapple make for a can’t-get-enough treat. Perfect!

Hawaiian ABTs

Seasoning Optional

You can sprinkle the Hawaiian ABTs with your favorite rub before placing them on your smoker if you wish. But I’d do so sparingly. You really don’t want to hide the great flavors in these little morsels. A little extra heat wouldn’t hurt, but I emphasize ‘little’. Go easy on it.

If you by chance end up with leftover ABTs the next day, chop them fine and use them as the filling for the best grilled cheese sandwiches you’ve ever had. Or add to the tops of hot grilled burgers. You’ll thank me.

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

I recommend that you use a grill basket when making this dish. It makes cooking easier and you don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. And cleanup is easier too!

Hawaiian ABTs
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5 from 1 vote

Hawaiian ABTs

These Hawaiian ABTs bring a really nice sweet twist to the classic recipe. Bacon and a bit of heat tamed by cream cheese and pineapple. Perfect!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, jalapeno
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 24 poppers
Calories 579kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Year on the Grill

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 12 jalapeno peppers sliced in half lengthwise
  • 8 ounces cream Cheese softened to room Temperature
  • 24 Slices bacon
  • 24 pineapple cut to be slightly smaller than the size of the split Jalapenos

Instructions

  • Half the jalapenos leaving the stem.
  • With a spoon scrape out the seeds and veins, then rinse with water.
  • Fill each jalapeno half with cream cheese, making sure to not overfill past the rim.
  • Place a slice of pineapple in each.
  • Starting at the bottom, wrap each stuffed jalapeno with bacon, add a toothpick to hold it together.
  • Place ABT’s on the grill, indirect heat (Coals pushed to the side, peppers placed where there are no coals under the peppers.
  • Grill until bacon is crisp about an hour to an hour 15 minutes. They can easily be done in an oven. (Not recommended: you will lose that wonderful smoky flavor)
  • Remove toothpicks prior to serving
  • Serve HOT and ENJOY (Everyone always does)!

Notes

NOTE: It is the seeds and the white veins that are the most SPICY. Remove as much as possible to make a milder version of this if you are serving a large crowd.

Nutrition

Calories: 579kcal | Carbohydrates: 120g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 185mg | Potassium: 1060mg | Fiber: 13g | Sugar: 90g | Vitamin A: 735IU | Vitamin C: 441mg | Calcium: 129mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush