Author: Mike

Big Mac Hot Dogs

I wanted to make these Big Mac hot dogs the minute I saw the idea floating around in the online recipe world. First, I love Big Macs. I make a few crazy variations on them at home. I’ve made Big Mac smash burgers, subs, hoagies and sliders! I don’t need an excuse to make Big Macs. These hot dogs taste a lot like the fast food favorite and man, were they fun to make! I was smiling the entire time because it felt like I was making the real deal! They are cool and yummy at the same time!

Big Mac Hot Dogs

And More Stuff. Have It Your Way.

Of course one of the advantages of making Big Mac hot dogs yourself is that you can kinda play around a bit. Me, I like a lot of onions and lettuce. Oh sure, give me a few extra pickles too. And extra of that special sauce. I want mine messy. The messier the better. Like sauce-running-down-the-front-of-my-arms messy. That’s the right kind of messy. My homemade version of the classic burgers are messy too.

I almost always use Blue Plate mayonnaise in the dishes I make. I think it is the best around. If you can’t find it locally you can pick it up online for a fair price.

Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Also try my Big Mac meatball subs.

Big Mac Hot Dogs
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Big Mac Hot Dogs

One of the most fun things I've made!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword hot dogs
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 540kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the sauce (you might have more than you need)

For the hot dogs

  • 4 hot dog buns top-sliced
  • 1 egg white whisked
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 4 hot dogs all-beef, preferred
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • 16 dill pickle chips
  • ½ cup onion minced
  • 1 cup iceberg lettuce shredded

Instructions

For the sauce

  • Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.

For the hot dogs

  • Note: Preheat your oven to 350 F to bake the buns.
  • Cook the hot dogs as desired. I grilled mine, but you can also steam them, pan fry them, bake them (you do have the oven on!) or even microwave them.
  • Lightly brush the tops of the buns with the egg white. Sprinkle with the sesame seeds. Bake in a preheated 350 F oven or on a grill for 3-4 minutes.
  • Slather the insides of the buns with the sauce. Don't be shy.
  • Add a piece of cheese to each bun.
  • Add a hot dog to each bun.
  • Slide 4 dill pickle chips alongside each hot dog.
  • Sprinkle tops of dogs with onion and lettuce.
  • Add more sauce if desired.
  • Serve.

Notes

Best served with fries!

Nutrition

Calories: 540kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 53mg | Sodium: 1418mg | Potassium: 280mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 392IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 339mg | Iron: 3mg

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)

Crispy Fries using a Fry Daddy Fryer

This is my go-to method for making a small batch of the best-tasting, crispiest French fries. Making delicious crispy fries using a Fry Daddy Fryer takes just a little bit of time and just a handful of ingredients. The end result is mouth-wateringly good and hard to resist. Most double-fried recipes require two different cooking temperatures. But, you can’t adjust the temperature on a Fry Daddy. Don’t let that worry you. These will be the best fries you’ve made. Or had.

Crispy Fries using a Fry Daddy Fryer

The Keys To Perfect Fries Every Time

There are two key steps to making sure these crispy fries using the Fry Daddy Fryer come out perfectly. First, make sure you rinse the raw potatoes in cold water and keep rinsing until the water is clear. You want all that starch gone, as if you’re making rice. Second, let the fries come to room temperature (or near it) before the second frying.

The fries will crisp up just a bit more after they come out of the fryer so it’s ok to remove them just before you think they’re like you want them. It’s not critical, but after doing these a time or two you’ll get the timing for what’s best for you. Don’t worry, they’ll be great no matter what!

The Presto Fry Daddy is perfect for making smaller batches of food. It only uses a few cups of oil and comes to temperature quickly. Clean-up is easy too!

Presto Fry Daddy 4-Cup Electric Deep Fryer, Aluminum
Presto Fry Daddy 4-Cup Electric Deep Fryer, Aluminum

You’ll want to dip your fries in my copycat Freddy’s fry sauce, for sure!

Crispy Fries using a Fry Daddy Fryer
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Crispy Fries using a Fry Daddy Fryer

This is my go-to method for making a small batch of the best-tasting, crispiest French fries.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword deep-fried, fries
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 2148kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 medium Russet potatoes cleaned, peeled if desired
  • 4 cups vegetable oil for frying
  • kosher salt or your favorite fry seasoning, to taste

Instructions

  • Fill a large bowl with cold water.
  • Slice the potatoes into thin, 1/8"-1/4" sticks. Try to keep them the same thickness.
  • Place fries into the water. Add more water if needed to keep them fully submerged.
  • Add the oil to the fryer and plug it in according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Drain the fries. Refill with more cold water. Stir the potatoes. Repeat this step (draining, refilling) until the water is no longer cloudy. This usually just takes me two times.
  • Drain the potatoes well and transfer to a large kitchen towel. Pat dry. Make sure you get them dry or they will splatter when you add them to the hot oil.
  • Working in batches if needed, fry the potatoes until just starting to turn a light brown. You are not cooking them fully, you do not want them to be golden brown yet. Do not over-crowd the fryer.
  • Remove the fries from the fryer using the slotted spoon that comes with the unit. Place on a wire rack over a baking pan to drain. Spread them out evenly.
  • Let the fries cool to room temperature, about 10 minutes.
  • Working in batches if necessary, return the fries to the fryer and finish cooking them. You want them nice and lightly golden brown. I've found that you can actually crowd the fryer a little more than usual for this step. The fries are mostly cooked, you're just crisping them up and giving them some color so a little extra potatoes in there isn't going to hurt. Just don't over-fill the fryer.
  • Remove the fries to the wire rack again to drain. Season well with salt. I prefer to transfer the fries from the rack to a large bowl, sprinkle them with the salt, and toss to season evenly.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

If you haven’t tried your fries dipped in mayonnaise, now’s a great time to give it a whirl! 

Nutrition

Calories: 2148kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 224g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 63g | Monounsaturated Fat: 142g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 11mg | Potassium: 888mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Sweet and Sassy Red Potato Salad

If you put a paper plate loaded with fried chicken and this sweet and sassy red potato salad in front of me I’d honestly go for the potato salad first. And that’s saying a lot, because I love fried chicken almost more than anything. This salad is different, mostly thanks to the addition of pickle juice in the dressing. That pickle edge takes this dish from great to amazing.

Sweet and Sassy Red Potato Salad

The Perfect Side Dish

This sweet and sassy red potato salad would be the perfect side dish for a family get-together. Or a potluck. Or just a good old fashioned picnic. It travels well and tastes amazing. It’s perfect cold, and just as good (if not a tad better) served warm. You can’t go wrong with it.

I almost always use Blue Plate mayonnaise in the dishes I make. I think it is the best around. If you can’t find it locally you can pick it up online for a fair price.

Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

I don’t like to boil my potatoes when making potato salad. I don’t like them little taters rolling around in the hot water, bumping each other, scraping each other’s skin off (yikes, that sounds even worse than I thought). Instead, I prefer to steam them. So I load up a steam basket, put it above a pot of slowly boiling water, and let it steam until the potatoes are just tender. The skins are left perfectly intact.

Sweet and Sassy Red Potato Salad
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Sweet and Sassy Red Potato Salad

If you put a paper plate loaded with fried chicken and this sweet and sassy potato salad in front of me I'd honestly go for the potato salad first.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword potato salad, spicy, sweet
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 177kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the salad

  • 2 pounds small red potatoes
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup sweet pickles chopped fine
  • ½ cup sweet onions chopped fine
  • ¼ cup celery chopped fine
  • ¼ cup fresh chives chopped fine, divided

For the dressing

Instructions

For the salad

  • Steam or boil the potatoes until done. I prefer steaming them because it keeps the skins intact. Do not peel. Let the potatoes cool and cut into quarters.
  • Meanwhile, hard-boil and peel the eggs. Chop fine.
  • In a large bowl, gently combine the potato quarters, pickles, eggs, onion, celery and most of the chives (reserving some for garnish later).
  • Prepare the dressing (see below) and pour over the potato mixture. Gently stir with a spatula.
  • Serve warm or refrigerate for at least an hour if serving cold. Serve garnished with remaining chives.

For the dressing

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayo, Dijon, pickle juice, and vinegar.
  • Add salt and pepper to taste and stir.
  • If the dressing is too thick add a bit more pickle juice and stir.

Nutrition

Calories: 177kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 413mg | Potassium: 64mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 227IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 0.4mg

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)

Pub Sauce Smash Burgers

Oh man did these Pub Sauce smash burgers ever hit the spot. Juicy patties. Crisp fresh toppings. All with a wonderful sauce that is a combination of just about every good burger sauce you can think of. It’s reminiscent of a creamy steak sauce but it’s not too thick. It’s got a hint of sweetness. A bit salty. A little Asian-inspired flavor. And my favorite, garlic. Every bite is an umami-festival. These burgers are proof that even the simplest sauce can make a ‘plain’ burger something special. Sure, there are a few ingredients, but nothing fancy and nothing complicated.

Pub Sauce Smash Burgers

Amazing Burgers

Making Pub Sauce smash burgers isn’t difficult. You don’t need a bunch of fancy equipment or a lot of time. Just a hot griddle and a burger press. Any griddle will do, whether it’s on a grill, cooktop, stove or even a standalone outdoor flattop. Just get those patties nice and thin and use quality fresh toppings. And a great sauce.

Cuisinart CGPR-221 Cast Iron Grill Press (Wood Handle), Weighs 2.1-pounds
Cuisinart CGPR-221 Cast Iron Grill Press (Wood Handle), Weighs 2.1-pounds

Also try my smash burger patty melts.

Pub Sauce Smash Burgers
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Pub Sauce Smash Burgers

Get those patties nice and thin and use quality fresh toppings.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword smash burgers
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 831kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the sauce

For the burgers

  • 1 pound ground beef formed into four 4-ounce patties
  • kosher salt to taste
  • ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese
  • 4 pieces iceberg lettuce torn or chopped
  • 4 slices tomato
  • 4 slices onion
  • 6 slices dill pickle chips

Instructions

For the sauce

  • Combine all ingredients. Refrigerate until ready to use.

For the burgers

  • Fire up your grill for direct medium-high heat cooking. You can also use an outdoor or indoor griddle or a large skillet on a stove.
  • Season the burger patties with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy with the seasoning.
  • Place the patties on grill. Smash down with a spatula or grill press.
  • Grill the burgers for 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Top the patties with cheese and grill until they’ve reached your desired doneness and the cheese is melted. Remove from the grill.
  • Toast the buns as desired.
  • Make the burgers by first spreading some of the sauce on the bun bottoms.
  • Add a burger patty.
  • Add onion, lettuce, tomato and pickle slices.
  • Slather the top bun with more of the sauce and serve.

Notes

Patties 4-5 ounces in weight work best.

Nutrition

Calories: 831kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 63g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 21g | Monounsaturated Fat: 19g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 115mg | Sodium: 3111mg | Potassium: 868mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 1171IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 358mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Quick Fix Copycat McRib Sandwich

This isn’t some highfalutin’ food blog. I can barely afford to keep the lights on half of the time. I gotta cut corners wherever I can to keep this site up and running. So that’s why you’re not going to judge me when I say I really, really enjoyed this quick fix copycat of the McRib sandwich. I mean, you know what? It’s actually yummy! It kinda looks like the real thing and it’s fun to eat!

I should probably email the fine folks at On-Cor to apologize for doubting their products. Their BBQ rib patties look like the real McRib deal, sauce and all!

Quick Fix Copycat McRib Sandwich

They’re Yummy!

You can make 6 McRib sandwiches from a package of On-Cor BBQ Rib Patties. I actually prefer 2 patties per sandwich. I wrote the recipe to use only one per sandwich, but ….. well, use your own judgment. Make sure to get some of the sauce on there, too. The ribs actually come with more sauce then you’d think, plenty enough to heap on deep and that’s a good thing. That helps make these quick fix copycat McRib sandwiches double good!

And whatever you do, do not forget the pickles! That vinegary pickle goodness cuts thru the sweetness of the barbecue sauce.

Mt. Olive Hamburger Dill Chips Pickles, 16 oz
Mt. Olive Hamburger Dill Chips Pickles, 16 oz

Of course you serve this sandwich with copycat McDonald’s French fries!

Quick Fix Copycat McRib Sandwich
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Copycat McRib Sandwich

I actually prefer 2 patties per sandwich.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, McRib, quick fix
Prep Time 4 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 797kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Prepare rib patties per package instructions.
  • Toast the sub rolls if desired.
  • If you are baking the rib patties just add the rolls to the oven the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Place 1 patty on each sub roll bottom and add 1/3 cup of the sauce from the container the ribs came in.
  • Add 2 pickle chips and the top of the bun and serve.

Notes

Serve with napkins and a smile.

Nutrition

Calories: 797kcal | Carbohydrates: 100g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 2111mg | Potassium: 711mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 51IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 88mg | Iron: 23mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Copycat Freddy’s Burger Seasoning

Chances are, if I have a grill fired up, there’s going to be a smash burger in my near future. They are my go-to quick-and-easy dinner. Simple. Fast. And oh so good. I want my patties to be packed with flavor. This copycat Freddy’s burger seasoning is an absolutely fantastic way to add great flavor to any burger. This stuff is like magic. A little smoky earthiness. A little garlicky and onion-y. Salty sweet. Add a little or a lot to your next burgers and you’ll be happy.

Copycat Freddy's Burger Seasoning

My Bad. But Still Good.

Oops on me, I didn’t have any turmeric for my copycat Freddy’s burger seasoning. No problem. I used dry mustard instead. You’re just looking for something with a little earthiness to it. Cumin would be great too, but my wife is not quite the big cumin fan, so mustard it was.

AOZITA 14 Pcs Glass Spice Jars with Spice Labels - 4oz Empty Square Spice Bottles - Shaker Lids and Airtight Metal Caps - Chalk Marker and Silicone Collapsible Funnel Included
AOZITA 14 Pcs Glass Spice Jars with Spice Labels – 4oz Empty Square Spice Bottles – Shaker Lids and Airtight Metal Caps – Chalk Marker and Silicone Collapsible Funnel Included

Also try some Freddy’s fry seasoning and burger sauce!

Copycat Freddy's Burger Seasoning
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat Freddy’s Burger Seasoning

Add a little or a lot to your next burgers and you'll be happy.
Course Burger Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword burger sauce
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 112kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients.
  • To serve, sprinkle on both sides of burger patties just before cooking.

Notes

Keep in an airtight container until ready to use.

Nutrition

Calories: 112kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 11634mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 1970IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

AOZITA 14 Pcs Glass Spice Jars with Spice Labels - 4oz Empty Square Spice Bottles - Shaker Lids and Airtight Metal Caps - Chalk Marker and Silicone Collapsible Funnel Included
AOZITA 14 Pcs Glass Spice Jars with Spice Labels – 4oz Empty Square Spice Bottles – Shaker Lids and Airtight Metal Caps – Chalk Marker and Silicone Collapsible Funnel Included

St Louis-Style Ribs using a Rotisserie

Rotisserie St Louis-style ribs are something I’ve been wanting to make for some time. I usually smoke my ribs, low-and-slow or high-and-fast on my smoker. This time I decided to give ribs on my gas grill a shot to see if I would like them as much as my ‘traditional’ method of cooking ribs. Well, by golly, I did and then some! I really enjoyed these ribs. They had great flavor. They were still moist and were as tender as could be. And they had this slight crunchiness to the skin that was just fantastic. Oh, and they were easy to make to boot! These were winner-winner ribs for sure!

St Louis-Style Ribs using a Rotisserie

Indirect Cooking

When you put your ribs on your grill it’s important that they do not sit (well, spin) over direct heat. If you look at the very far right of my picture above you’ll see that the very end of my rack got a little dark. That’s because there’s a burner right below that part of the ribs. I didn’t realize that until it was too late. I learned from my experience. The rest of the ribs were fantastic and I’d make them again and again (but I’d make sure that they were 100% in indirect heat!).

Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black
Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black

I put the apple juice into a cheap spray bottle and then spritz the ribs every 30 minutes or so. Spraying them is easier than using a brush and it makes sure I’m not brushing off any of the seasoning.

St Louis-Style Ribs using a Rotisserie
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

St Louis-Style Ribs using a Rotisserie

These were winner-winner ribs for sure!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, ribs, rotisserie
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 630kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Dad Cooks Dinner

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Spread the mustard on all sides of the ribs. Just a light coating will do.
  • Sprinkle the rub over the ribs and pat gently to adhere. Don't forget to get the back and sides of the ribs.
  • Fire up your grill for rotisserie cooking over medium-low heat, around 300 F.
  • Place a large drip pan under the rotisserie.
  • Skew the ribs onto the rotisserie. Be careful doing this. Never put your hands where the sharp end can skewer you and not the ribs! Run the spit thru the first and second bone on one end. Bend the ribs slightly (like an 'S') and skewer between the next set of bones where you can skewer without breaking the ribs. Finally run the spit thru the last two bones. Secure with the rotisserie forks. It's ok if you have to remove the spit and try again to get the ribs nice and skewered down the middle. An extra hole or two isn't going to hurt anything!
  • Place the spit onto the grill and start the motor. Close the grill lid and cook for 2 – 3 hours or until the meat on the bones has pulled back from the ends by about 1/2". I like to spray my ribs with apple juice every 30 minutes while they spin. You can also brush them with the apple juice but do so carefully as you don't want to brush off your seasoning.
  • Brush the ribs with BBQ sauce and let cook another 10 minutes for the sauce to set.
  • Carefully remove the spit from the grill using thick grill gloves and remove the ribs.
  • Cover with foil and let rest 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

I like to use a smoky BBQ sauce to give these even more of a ‘hot off the smoker’ taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 630kcal | Protein: 35g | Fat: 53g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 19g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 182mg | Sodium: 184mg | Potassium: 551mg | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Pimento Cheese Scalloped Potatoes using 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 admit that I have a big time addiction to scalloped potatoes. I can make them in all sorts of flavors, like these pimento cheese scalloped potatoes using the Char-Broil Big Easy. Heck, it might be just a few ingredients, but oh, is it so tasty yummy! Leftovers heat up easy too. Well, if you have any. I highly recommend that you double the recipe.

Pimento Cheese Scalloped Potatoes using the Char-Broil Big Easy

Making the pimento cheese scalloped potatoes

Everything for these pimento cheese scalloped potatoes is pretty much cooked before you place them into your Char-Broil Big Easy. At any rate, you’re using the great infrared heat of the Big Easy to melt the cheese and get a nice brown on the potatoes and a little crunch. They come out of the cooker bubbling hot and crazy addictingly good.

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

The basket and the pans

These Dutch oven pans fit into the bunk bed baskets perfectly and they make for easy clean up. Another key point is that you can easily fit two baskets into a Big Easy without any problem. Although three can fit but you’re in for a challenge getting the last one in. Doable, but possible.

Above all, as with any disposable pans, you have to support the bottoms of the pans when lifting them. The bunk bed basket helps with that a lot. Getting the one out of the bottom of the Big Easy is trickier. I sometimes slide a large spatula in from the side to support the bottom while I lift it up far enough to get my heat-proof gloved hand underneath.

8-Inch Aluminum Dutch Oven Liner Pans | Disposable Cake Pan and Extra Deep Aluminum Foil Pans for Baking, Freezing, and Storage | Durable Aluminum Round Baking Pans | 10 Count
8-Inch Aluminum Dutch Oven Liner Pans | Disposable Cake Pan and Extra Deep Aluminum Foil Pans for Baking, Freezing, and Storage | Durable Aluminum Round Baking Pans | 10 Count

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!

Pimento Cheese Scalloped Potatoes using the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Pimento Cheese Scalloped Potatoes using the Char-Broil Big Easy

Tender creamy potatoes with pimento cheese that you won't be able to resist!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, cheesy, potatoes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings 6
Calories 442kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy cream plus more, if needed
  • 1 teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 ½ pounds Idaho potatoes scrubbed clean, peeled
  • 4 ounces Cheddar grated, divided
  • 4 ounces pimentos chopped, drained

Instructions

  • Cut the potatoes into 1/4" slices
  • Bring to cream to a simmer in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
  • Season with salt and pepper and stir.
  • Add the potatoes. Add more cream if the potatoes aren't covered.
  • Lower heat to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are just becoming tender. This will take 10-12 minutes. If the potatoes stick to each other you can break them apart with a fork but be careful to not poke or break the potatoes.
  • Remove potatoes from the heat.
  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Spoon 1/3 of the potatoes into the pan. Also add some of the cream sauce.
  • Spread the potatoes out evenly.
  • Sprinkle the potatoes evenly with 1/3rd of the cheese and 1/3rd of the pimentos.
  • Add another 1/3 of the potatoes and some of the cream, topped with another 1/3rd of the cheese and 1/3rd of the pimentos.
  • Finish up with the last of the potatoes, cream, cheese and pimentos.
  • Transfer the pan to the Big Easy. I recommend using a Bunk Bed basket because it's easier to get in/out of the Big Easy and it provides support to the bottom of the pan.
  • Cook for 30-45 minutes or until the cheese is starting to bubble and the tops of the potatoes start to turn golden brown.
  • Carefully remove the pan from the Big Easy. If using a Bunk Bed basket remove just the basket.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can warm up any leftovers in the pan.

Nutrition

Calories: 442kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 109mg | Sodium: 542mg | Potassium: 602mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1859IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 203mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp

This is it. The best shrimp I’ve ever made. With the best dipping sauce. I could eat these Parrot Bay coconut shrimp embarrassingly fast, and in embarrassingly large quantities. I’m not ashamed to admit it. They’re fantastic. Lightly crunchy. Lightly sweet. With a wonderful tropical sauce. There’s coconut all around, but it’s not overpowering at all. It’s perfect. These are amazingly good shrimp.

Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp

Quality Ingredients Make For Great Shrimp

The key to these Parrot Bay coconut shrimp is to not skimp on the ingredients. Get quality coconut rum. Get good pina colada mix. And most importantly, get great shrimp. I only use wild-caught Florida or Louisiana shrimp. Shrimp to Shore ships as soon as their catch is caught.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

If you search around, you’ll find quality shrimp that is fresh-caught, not farm-raised, and can be delivered to your doorstep quickly. Or find a local fish monger that can get you shrimp. Don’t settle for less than the best, this dish deserves it.

Also try my other take on coconut shrimp with a dipping sauce.

Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp

If you search around, you'll find quality shrimp that is fresh-caught, not farm-raised, and can be delivered to your doorstep quickly.
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword coconut, deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 910kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Pina Colada Dipping Sauce

For the Shrimp

Instructions

For the Pina Colada Dipping Sauce

  • Combine all ingredients.
  • Refrigerate until ready to use.

For the Shrimp

  • Heat a few inches of oil to 350 F in a Dutch oven or deep fryer.
  • Set out three medium bowls.
  • In the first bowl, place 3/4 cups of flour.
  • In the second bowl, combine the remaining 3/4 cup of flour, sugar and salt.
  • Add the milk and rum and stir or whisk until smooth.
  • In the last bowl combine the panko and coconut.
  • Let the wet batter stand for minutes.
  • Working in batches, dip the shrimp in the bowl of flour. Toss to coat. Shake off any excess flour.
  • Next, transfer the shrimp to the wet batter and dunk and turn to coat well. Shake off any excess batter.
  • Last, place the shrimp in the panko mixture and toss to coat.
  • Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Remove to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Serve hot with the pina colada dipping sauce.

Notes

The sauce is delicious. Make extra.

Nutrition

Calories: 910kcal | Carbohydrates: 135g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 49mg | Sodium: 585mg | Potassium: 577mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 40g | Vitamin A: 571IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 288mg | Iron: 7mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Spice-Brined Grilled Chicken Breasts

I could not have been happier with how these spice-brined grilled chicken breasts turned out. I was looking for tender, flavor-packed, juicy chicken to use in a big batch of chicken salad. And that’s exactly what I got. I grilled my chicken (in this case, split chicken breasts, but boneless skinless will work just fine too) on cedar planks for a little extra flavor and aroma, but you can skip that and do them directly on your grill grates too.

Spice-Brined Grilled Chicken Breasts

For The Best Results, Go Skinless

I am not a fan of skin-on chicken when it comes to brining although you can certainly use it if you want. Leaving the skin on normally does help keep the meat from drying out, but that’s not really needed here. And no way is it going to get crispy enough to enjoy. So, skip it if you want. I did. This spice-brined grilled chicken breasts recipe doesn’t need any tinkering with. It’s great just as it is.

Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black
Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black

You can use any seasoning on the chicken you want, but I would shy away from anything heavy on salt (you already brined it it) and sugar (it’ll burn over the high grill heat).

Also try my grilled Dijon chicken and my outrageously-good butterflied chicken legs.

Spice-Brined Grilled Chicken Breasts
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Spice-Brined Grilled Chicken Breasts

You can use any seasoning on the chicken you want, but I would shy away from anything heavy on salt (you already brined it) and sugar (it'll burn over the high grill heat).
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword brined, poultry
Prep Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 701kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the brine

For the chicken

Instructions

For the brine

  • Place water in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  • Stir in the salt, sugar, garlic, sage, basil, peppercorns and the bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and continue simmering, stirring often, for about 20 minutes. Make sure that the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
  • Remove pot from heat, cover and let cool completely, at least 2 hours.

For the chicken

  • Add the chicken to the brine and transfer the pot to the fridge for 2 hours and up to 4 hours maximum.
  • If cooking the chicken on cedar planks, begin soaking them in water 30 minutes before using.
  • Fire up your grill for direct and indirect cooking.
  • If using planks, char the planks over direct heat on both sides first. Add the chicken and move the planks to indirect heat and continue cooking, 30-45 minutes or until the chicken measures 165 F with a thermometer.
  • Place chicken directly on the grates over high heat and sear on both sides, 2-3 minutes per side. Move the planks to indirect heat and continue cooking, 30-45 minutes or until the chicken measures 165 F with a thermometer.
  • Let chicken rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Great sliced thin for sandwiches or in chicken salad!

Nutrition

Calories: 701kcal | Carbohydrates: 172g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 85118mg | Potassium: 1794mg | Fiber: 28g | Sugar: 134g | Vitamin A: 967IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 1669mg | Iron: 57mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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