Author: Mike

Biscuits and Tasso Gravy

Quick-and-easy biscuits and gravy is a common meal in our household. A tube of biscuits, a roll of sausage, a little flour, salt and pepper, and milk and 15 minutes later you’ve got breakfast. Well, this biscuits and Tasso gravy isn’t that version of biscuits and gravy. This is beyond that. Way, way, way beyond it. Gravy made with spicy Tasso is amazing. Spicy, complex, melt-in-your-mouth Tasso just makes a world of difference.

Biscuits and Tasso Gravy

No Creme Fraiche? No Problem.

The original recipe for biscuits and Tasso gravy calls for using creme fraiche, which I could not find the day I went to the market. So, I ended up substituting sour cream, which has a different texture and slightly different taste, but the end result was still fantastic.

I made the gravy in my cast iron skillet. I think gravy is always better out of cast iron.

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle. 12 inches and 10.25 inches with 8 inch Set of 3 Cast Iron Frying Pans
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle. 12 inches and 10.25 inches with 8 inch Set of 3 Cast Iron Frying Pans

I made the Tasso on my Weber Smokey Mountain smoker. It takes a few days to prepare, but oh is it ever worth the time.

Biscuits and Tasso Gravy
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5 from 1 vote

Biscuits and Tasso Gravy

Gravy made with spicy Tasso is amazing. Spicy, complex, melt-in-your-mouth Tasso just makes a world of difference.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Keyword biscuits, gravy, tasso
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 409kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Nola Cuisine

Equipment

Ingredients

For the gravy

For the biscuits

  • 1 tube biscuits

Instructions

For the gravy

  • Melt the butter in a large sauce pan over medium-high heat.
  • Add the Tasso. Saute until the Tasso starts to brown.
  • Stir in the flour and continue stirring for two minutes.
  • Add the half and half. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
  • Add the salt, lemon juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
  • Stir in the creme fraiche and serve over biscuits.

For the biscuits

  • Bake the biscuits per package instructions.

Notes

Use homemade biscuits for the best results.

Nutrition

Calories: 409kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 118mg | Sodium: 603mg | Potassium: 373mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 994IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 201mg | 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)

Papa a la Huancaína

Huancayo is a fairly large city about 5 1/2 hours outside of Lima, Peru. It was the first city that I went to outside of Lima when I lived there many years ago. The drive is through some very beautiful areas in the Andes. Once there you can enjoy a potato dish called papa a la Huancaína.

Papa a la Huancaína

A Wonderful Potato Dish

Golden potatoes are topped with a creamy sauce that is almost Holandaise-like. It has a nice spicy kick thanks to aji amarillo. Aji is a somewhat-spicy Peruvian pepper that is a bit fruity in flavor. Papa a la Huancaina is topped with boiled eggs and olives and sometimes corn. It’s a great summer dish that can be served cold or at room temperature.

If you can’t find aji amarillo paste, use pureed habaneros. Papa a la Huancaína has a little kick to it.

NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine - Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14"x6"x3", Black
NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine – Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14″x6″x3″, Black

Also try some of my other Peruvian favorites, lomo saltado, palta rellena and Solterito Arequipeño (Arequipa Avocado Salad).

Papa a la Huancaína
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5 from 1 vote

Papa a la Huancaína

Golden potatoes are topped with a creamy sauce that is almost Holandaise-like, but it has a nice spicy kick thanks to aji amarillo.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Peru
Keyword Peruvian, potatoes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 476kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Peel the potatoes.
  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
  • Add potatoes and cook until just soft. Do not over cook. Remove, drain, and run under cold water. Drain again. Slice thick.
  • Place aji, oil, crackers, cheese, milk and salt into a blender and process until creamy smooth.
  • To assemble, lay down a few leaves of lettuce.
  • Top with the potatoes and drizzle heavily with the sauce.
  • Add the olives and eggs.
  • Garnish with parsley and serve.

Notes

Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 476kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 180mg | Sodium: 583mg | Potassium: 797mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 858IU | Vitamin C: 23mg | Calcium: 524mg | 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)

Roasted Red Potatoes 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 was cooking a few Italian sausages and peppers for sandwiches on my Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer the other day, and lo and behold, I had two empty skewers remaining. No point in not using up all available space when grilling (er.. roasting in this case), I say. So I boiled a few red potatoes for a few minutes and carefully skewered them. Into the cooker for about 20 minutes and presto change-o… fantastic, tender, moist roasted red potatoes. Roasted red potatoes on the Char-Broil Big Easy are quick and fantastic!

Roasted Red Potatoes on the Char-Broil Big Easy

It’s Just Easy

I put just a tad of butter and salt on the finished roasted red potatoes, and sprinkled them with a bit of smoked pepper. They’re great with my Cajun pork tenderloin, also cooked up perfectly on the Char-Broil Big Easy.

The bunk bed basket lets you double the amount of cooking space you have on your Big Easy. And it’s easy to take in and out of the cooker too!

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

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

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

Also try my easy roasted potatoes, using the Big Easy.

Roasted Red Potatoes on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Roasted Red Potatoes on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Roasted red potatoes on the Char-Broil Big Easy are quick and fantastic!
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, roasted potatoes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 159kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Char-Broil Big Easy. If you don’t have one, you can make these potatoes in the oven instead. Just pre-heat your oven to 400 F.
  • Boil the potatoes for about 10 minutes until you can just slide a toothpick through them. You don’t want them too soft or they’ll fall apart when skewered.
  • Remove from water and let cool enough to handle, about 5 minutes.
  • Gently skewer potatoes (if using a Big Easy, otherwise, just arrange the potatoes on a sheet pan).
  • Place potatoes in the Big Easy for about 20 minutes, or cook in the oven for 20 minutes.
  • Remove and add salt, pepper, and butter, to taste.

Notes

You can use any potatoes you like, but try to get equally-sized ones so they cook evenly.

Nutrition

Calories: 159kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 41mg | Potassium: 1032mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 16IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Choclo Maque Choux

I decided to try my hand at food fusion, combining ideas from two different cuisines: Peruvian and Creole. Oh how I was so more than pleased with the result! I started with a traditional Creole maque choux, but instead of sweet corn I used Peruvian choclo. The end result? Choclo maque choux!

Choclo Maque Choux

Much Different Than You’d Expect

Choclo is not like the sweet corn we are used to in the US. The kernels are huge. Like fingernail big. They are also starchy, and have a thicker pericarp, or outer layer (I looked that up). And last, they aren’t sweet.

The Sauce Makes This Dish

The sauce in maque choux is so delicious. It almost looks like mac-and-cheese, but there’s definitely not any cheese in this wonderful dish. It’s creamy and sweet, but not too sweet thanks to some hot sauce. And there’s a nice crunchy ‘pop’ as you bite into the huge choclo kernels.

I like to use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make this choclo dish and pretty much darned near anything like it on my stovetop. It’s nice and big and sturdy. That extra weight helps it maintain and distribute heat perfectly. As an added bonus, it’s actually pretty easy to clean up too!

Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue

I cannot wait to make this again. It was fantastic. Also try my more authentic dish, choclo cumino.

Choclo Maque Choux
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Choclo Maque Choux

I decided to try my hand at food fusion, combining ideas from two different cuisines: Peruvian and Creole. I was more than pleased with the result. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword corn, Peruvian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 213kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups choclo you can substitute sweet corn
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion minced
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • ½ teaspoon hot sauce plus more for serving
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • 1 egg lightly beaten

Instructions

  • Add 1 tablespoon of the butter and all of the oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter.
  • Add the corn, onion, sugar, and hot sauce.
  • Let the corn cook until it is almost tender and it starts to turn golden brown, forming a light crust in the bottom of the pan.
  • Stir in the broth, scraping up any bits off the bottom of the pan.
  • Add the remaining butter and all of the cream. Stir.
  • Cook, stirring, for 5 more minutes at a slow simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the egg until it is cooked
  • Serve with hot sauce.

Notes

The heavy cream is essential to this recipe. Don’t substitute anything lighter.

Nutrition

Calories: 213kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 98mg | Potassium: 194mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 521IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 20mg | 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)

Bread Machine Pizza Dough

I flat-out absolutely cannot bake. I’ve tried and tried. I am missing whatever gene is required to make perfect bread, dough, rolls or biscuits from scratch. So that’s why I have a bread machine. I’ve been using mine more and more lately. One of the recipes I love to make in it is this bread machine pizza dough.

Bread Machine Pizza Dough

Crunchy Down Below, Soft Up Top

This bread machine pizza dough is soft and a bit sweet, but with a little heat too. The bottom gets nice and crunchy while the top stays as soft as you can imagine.

This recipe makes a large pizza. I usually cut the dough in half and make two medium sized pizzas, cooking them on my Weber grill using a pizza stone. If you are cooking your pizza on a stone, make sure to lightly dust the stone with corn flour before placing the dough onto it. It prevents sticking and helps you get a nice crunchy crust.

Cuisinart Bread Maker Machine, Compact and Automatic, Customizable Settings, Up to 2lb Loaves, CBK-110P1, Silver,Black
Cuisinart Bread Maker Machine, Compact and Automatic, Customizable Settings, Up to 2lb Loaves, CBK-110P1, Silver,Black

Also try my bread machine burger buns.

Bread Machine Pizza Dough
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Bread Machine Pizza Dough

This dough is soft and a bit sweet, but with a little heat too. The bottom gets nice and crunchy while the top stays as soft as you can imagine.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword bread machine, dough, pizza
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings 1 pizza
Calories 1570kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the ingredients into your bread machine in the order listed.
  • Select the dough cycle on your machine.
  • When done, let the dough rest 5-30 minutes then remove.
  • Roll out to the desired shape and size.
  • Add toppings.
  • Bake in an oven at 425 F or on a pizza stone on a grill for 10-12 minutes or until done.

Notes

When making a pizza, less is more.

Nutrition

Calories: 1570kcal | Carbohydrates: 319g | Protein: 50g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2746mg | Potassium: 735mg | Fiber: 19g | Sugar: 19g | Vitamin A: 592IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 105mg | Iron: 19mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Bambüsi Bamboo Bread Slicer with Knife - 3 Slice Thickness, Foldable Compact Cutting Guide with Crumb Tray, Stainless Steel Bread Knife for Homemade Bread, Cake, Bagels 5.5” Wide x 5” Tall
Bambüsi Bamboo Bread Slicer with Knife – 3 Slice Thickness, Foldable Compact Cutting Guide with Crumb Tray, Stainless Steel Bread Knife for Homemade Bread, Cake, Bagels 5.5” Wide x 5” Tall

Sriracharitos (Sriracha Doritos) with Dip

Like just about everyone these days, I’m a really big fan of Sriracha sauce. And I’m a really big fan of tortilla chips. I used to be borderline addicted to habanero-flavored Doritos, but sadly and wrongly, they were removed from the market. They were darned hot. Seriously hot. Now, Sriracha isn’t as hot as habaneros, but it still has some kick. It’s a nice kick, not the kind that leaves you curled up on the floor in agony. Not even close. I was jonesin’ for some kickin’ hot tortilla chips and a dip. So I developed Sriracharitos with dip.

Sriracharitos with Dip

It’s Time For A New Dorito Flavor!

Sriracharitos have that great Sriracha flavor, all on a crunchy tortilla chip. The dip has a generous amount of dill, so it actually seems cool. It’s a great contrast to the heat. You can serve it with any kind of chip. But then you’d have to re-name it! Just kidding…. I think corn chips would also be excellent prepared this way.

I found J&Ds Sriracha rub in the spice section of my grocery store. You can also substitute Weber’s Sriracha rub. Either way, you’ll love a big plate of Sriracharitos with a big bowl of dip!

NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine - Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14"x6"x3", Black
NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine – Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14″x6″x3″, Black

Also try my Sriracha Bugles.

Sriracharitos with Dip
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Sriracharitos with Dip

Sriracharitos have that great Sriracha flavor, all on a crunchy tortilla chip. The dip has a generous amount of dill, so it actually seems cool. It’s a great contrast to the heat.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword corn chips, dip
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 211kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Sriracharitos (Sriracha tortilla chips)

For the Sriracha dip

Instructions

For the Sriracharitos

  • Preheat oven to 400 F.
  • Place chips onto a large baking sheet.
  • Spray the chips with a bit of oil or non-stick spray.
  • Sprinkle with the Sriracha seasoning.
  • Turn the chips over and spray and season the other side.
  • Place the chips into the oven for 5-10 minutes.
  • Let cool just slightly before serving with the dip.

For the sriracha dip

  • Whisk together all ingredients.
  • Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Any leftover chips should be stored in an air-tight container. Leftover dip should be stored in the fridge. Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 211kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 302mg | Potassium: 81mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 78IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 60mg | 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)

Louisiana Burgers

These Louisiana burgers are absolutely incredible. They are the best burgers I’ve ever had. Wonderful grilled seasoned beef, kick’n pepper jack cheese, a creamy remoulade, crunchy red onion and my favorite, spicy homemade Tasso that just melts in your mouth. All on homemade buns. Without the tasso these are great burgers. With it, they are amazing.

Louisiana Burgers

Every bite of these Louisiana burgers is fully of fantastic flavor. If you don’t want to go through the ‘trouble’ of making tasso, I strongly encourage you to find some. Even if you have to drive to Louisiana. It’s special. The flavors are very concentrated so you won’t need much. It’s salty, spicy and lightly smoky. Perfect on a grilled burger.

I could’ve used some Kaw-Cajun Comeback sauce on these burgers, but I went with a bottle of Louisiana Fish Fry Product’s remoulade sauce instead. It has a nice zesty taste that is also great on po boy sandwiches. You can find it in your grocer’s southern foods section.

Weber Original Burger Press, Black
Weber Original Burger Press, Black

If you love big flavors, you’ll love these burgers. Also try my spicy bacon burgers.

Louisiana Burgers
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Louisiana Burgers

These Louisiana burgers are absolutely incredible. They are the best burgers I’ve ever had.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword burgers
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 725kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Bobby Flay

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill.
  • Combine the spices and mix into the meat in a large bowl.
  • Form the meat into 4 patties.
  • Grill the burgers as desired.
  • Toast the buns.
  • Slather the buns with the remoulade sauce.
  • Top with the burgers, Tasso, red onion, and cheese.

Notes

Also great with Swiss or Monterey jack cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 725kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 44g | Fat: 48g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 158mg | Sodium: 1719mg | Potassium: 616mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 443IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 436mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Cuisinart CSBP-100 3-in-1 Stuffed Burger Press, Black
Cuisinart CSBP-100 3-in-1 Stuffed Burger Press, Black

Copycat Famous Dave’s Country-Roasted Chicken

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 Famous Dave’s. I didn’t think I would be. I love my local BBQ joints, so I was skeptical of a big national chain, no matter how much I think Dave is a nice guy. Well, I’m not skeptical any more. Everything I’ve ever ordered there has been fantastic and the service has always been friendly. I highly recommend you stop in and get you some ribs (or pulled pork, or brisket, or country-roasted chicken) and don’t pass up on the wonderful sides. They have some of the best sides I’ve ever had at a BBQ joint. And, since I’m also a big fan of my Char-Broil Big Easy, I could not pass up making a copycat version of Famous Dave’s country-roasted chicken.

Copycat Famous Dave's Country-Roasted Chicken

It Couldn’t Get Any Easier

I took bone-in split chicken breasts, marinated them overnight and then tossed them into a lit Big Easy until done. The result was tender, juicy, and oh so very flavorful. And nothing could be easier to make than this copycat Famous Dave’s Country-Roasted chicken. I left the skin on the chicken. You can remove it before marinating and applying the rub if you wish.

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

You can’t go wrong with poultry on the Big Easy. Also try my copycat of Kentucky Fried Chicken’s roasted chicken. And for an even easier, Famous Dave’s copycat, just grab some of the chain’s seasonings and make chicken in no time with no fuss!

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!

Copycat Famous Dave's Country-Roasted Chicken
Print Pin
4.50 from 2 votes

Copycat Famous Dave’s Country-Roasted Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

I took bone-in split chicken breasts, marinated them overnight and then tossed them into a lit Big Easy until done. The result was tender, juicy, and oh so very flavorful. And nothing could be easier to make. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, chicken, roasted
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 13 hours 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 399kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the overnight marinade

For the pre-cook marinade

For the spice rub

For the chicken

  • 4 chicken breasts large bone-in

Instructions

For the overnight marinade

  • Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or container.
  • Add the Italian dressing and toss to coat.
  • Refrigerate overnight, turning occasionally.

For the pre-cook marinade

  • Three hours before you are ready to cook, add the lemon juice to the marinating chicken and toss to coat.

For the spice rub

  • Combine the ingredients.

For the chicken

  • Fire up your Big Easy. You’ll need a Bunk Bed basket (see below) to keep from overcrowding the chicken.
  • Shake any excess marinade from the chicken.
  • Dust with the rub. Use a little or a lot.
  • Place chicken in the Big Easy basket and lower into the cooker.
  • Cook until done and golden brown, about 10 minutes per pound.
  • Remove and let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can skip the overnight marinade and just combine the Italian dressing and lemon and marinate for 3 hours just before cooking.

Nutrition

Calories: 399kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 1988mg | Potassium: 910mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 171IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Charlie Mac Hot Dog

This is another (fantastic) copycat of a hot dog that you can grab from the Dougie Dog food truck in Vancouver, Canada. Nope, I’ve never been there. But, I saw the Dougie Dog truck on a recent episode of Eat Street on the Cooking Channel and fell in love with their menu. They have some crazy great dogs. Like this Charlie Mac hot dog. This is one creative delicious idea for a hot dog.

Charlie Mac Dog

My Goodness This Is One Great Dog

Everything about this Charlie Mac hot dog screams yummy. And I didn’t skimp on the buns, either. I picked up some fresh-baked hot dog buns from my local bakery, Taylor’s Bakery. All I have to do is call the day ahead and place my order. The next morning I’m picking up the most soft and fantastic smelling buns ever.

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

Ooey gooey cheese belongs on a hot dog. Also give my Wiz dog a try. It’s loaded with cheese.

Charlie Mac Dog
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Charlie Mac Dog

Everything about this dog screams yummy. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword hot dogs
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 519kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Cook your dogs and warm your buns.
  • Place dogs in buns and top with plenty of the mac-and-cheese.
  • Add cheese sauce if using.
  • Sprinkle with bacon and serve.

Notes

If you cut a shallow slit down the length of your hot dog before cooking it will open up slightly, giving the toppings a wonderful place to go!

Nutrition

Calories: 519kcal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 1119mg | Potassium: 280mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 9IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 171mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Grilled Twinkies

You can grill just about anything and it’ll come out great. I grilled donuts and they were fantastic. Twinkies are no exception to the rule. Grilled Twinkies take only minutes to cook, so they make for a very quick and easy dessert you can make after grilling burgers or hot dogs. The Twinkies get a bit of a nice crunchiness on the outside. They have a slight grill flavor to them. The insides stay creamy, delicious. As simple as they are, they are very good.

Grilled Twinkies

Grilled Twinkies taste just like toasted marshmallows. They’re surprisingly tasty and highly addicting.

My homemade Neapolitan ice cream teamed perfectly with the Twinkies. They were also great drizzled with a bit of chocolate syrup and topped with toasted chopped pecans. Yummy! For a slightly different variation, try cooking the Twinkies on cedar planks instead.

I grilled these Twinkies on my Weber Q 1200, a small portable grill that is also absolutely perfect for cooking at home for two. It heats up fast, and is more efficient than my big gas grill.

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

Also try my grilled banana sundae.

Grilled Twinkies
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5 from 1 vote

Grilled Twinkies

Grilled Twinkies taste just like toasted marshmallows. They’re surprisingly tasty and highly addicting.
Course Dessert
Cuisine Mike
Keyword dessert, grilled
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 65kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill.
  • Toss the Twinkies over direct heat.
  • Let them cook for a just a bit on a side, until you see grill marks.
  • Roll the Twinkies over to the next side and grill until you see grill marks.
  • Repeat until all sides have grill marks.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Great by themselves or served with whipped cream, ice cream, chocolate syrup… all of your favorites!

Nutrition

Calories: 65kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g

Nutritional values are approximate.

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