Author: Mike

Delicious Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

My wife said that her mom would approve of these delicious slow cooker Sloppy Joes and that’s all I needed to know. That means they’re not only good, they’re great. I never got the opportunity to have her mom’s Sloppy Joes, but I know that her mom could cook like nobody’s business.  The perfect thickness and the perfect beefiness, you’ll definitely want seconds.

Delicious Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

Makes A Big Batch. And That’s A Good Thing.

This recipe for delicious slow cooker Sloppy Joes makes a good-sized batch, but it’ll disappear quickly. You can also freeze any extra. I like having it on hand because it makes for a great, fast lunch.

For a little kick add a few good pinches of red pepper flake or some big splashes of hot sauce.

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR)
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR)

I serve my delicious Sloppy Joes as simply as possible: on toasted hamburger buns, and always open-faced. When I was a little tyke, I would request that my mom get my hamburger buns extra toasty. I liked the contrast between the Sloppy Joe meat mixture and the super crunchy bread. I wasn’t a fan of Soggy Joes. That’s when the sauce has too much time to soak into the bread, getting it … ewww. I also prefer to serve my Sloppy Joes open-faced. You can get twice as much filling in that way. It’s not like I’m going to pick them up anyways!

Also try my Philly cheesesteak version.

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes Version 2.0
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Delicious Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

My wife said that her mom would approve of these slow cooker Sloppy Joes and that’s all I needed to know. That means they’re not only good, they’re great.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword beef, crockpot, slow cooker
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 35 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 586kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Crumble the beef and sausage into a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Saute until almost browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
  • Add the onion, stir and continue cooking until it just starts to soften.
  • Drain and transfer to a lightly greased slow cooker.
  • Stir in the remaining ingredients except for the buns.
  • Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. If the mixture gets too dry add a small amount of water and stir. Remember, though, that you do want it to be nice and thick.
  • Serve on buns.

Notes

I also like to serve these open-faced on toasted buns.

Nutrition

Calories: 586kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 101mg | Sodium: 1146mg | Potassium: 663mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 599IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 119mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 6 Count
Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 6 Count

Pimento Cheese Grits

I find myself making more and more dishes from Chef Vivian Howard’s book, Deep Run Roots. Her southern-inspired recipes are packed with flavor and tradition. I made a big batch of Chef Howard’s pimento cheese, which by itself is insanely good. Half went for sandwiches while the other half ended up in these delicious pimento cheese grits. Creamy and yummy. I love grits. Adding pimento cheese to them makes me love them even more. I didn’t think that was possible.

Pimento Cheese Grits

Quality Grits Make For… Great Grits!

I use corn grits polenta from Bob’s Mill. They cook up in about 30 minutes and always have the perfect texture and flavor, great for pimento cheese grits. You can substitute quick-cooking grits in a pinch. They only take about 5 minutes.

Deep Run Roots: Stories and Recipes from My Corner of the South
Deep Run Roots: Stories and Recipes from My Corner of the South
Bob's Red Mill Organic Corn Grits/ Polenta, 24 Oz
Bob’s Red Mill Organic Corn Grits/ Polenta, 24 Oz

Also try my cheddar Ranch grits.

Pimento Cheese Grits
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Pimento Cheese Grits

Creamy and yummy. I love grits. Adding pimento cheese to them makes me love them even more. I didn’t think that was possible.
Course Main or Side
Cuisine American
Keyword grits, pimento cheese
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 674kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Chef Vivian Howard’s Deep Run Roots

Equipment

Ingredients

For the pimento cheese grits

  • 1 cup grits
  • 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
  • 1 ½ cups pimento cheese from below

For the pimento cheese (makes enough for 3 batches of grits)

  • 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 cups white cheddar cheese shredded
  • ½ cup pimentos drained
  • â…“ cup crushed tomatoes canned, drained (I used fire-roasted tomatoes)
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • ¼ teaspoon hot sauce or more
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt

Instructions

For the pimento cheese grits

  • Cook the grits per package instructions.
  • Add butter and melt.
  • Fold in the pimento cheese and heat until melted. Serve.

For the pimento cheese

  • Place all but the salt into a mixer with the blade attachment. Process for 30 seconds.
  • Add salt to taste and process 10 more seconds.

Notes

Also great made with pepper jack cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 674kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 48g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 121mg | Sodium: 1362mg | Potassium: 182mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1875IU | Vitamin C: 19mg | Calcium: 770mg | 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)

Garlic Parmesan Pizza Rolls

I was weak. Oh so weak. I made a small batch of garlic Parmesan pizza rolls thinking that I could control myself. That 18 of the little bites are actually 3 servings. Maybe even 4 servings. Well, I’m here to argue that it’s impossible to eat just a few of them.

These bites are insanely good. Lightly crunchy. Definitely garlicky. With just enough Parmesan so you get that taste, that nuttiness, that saltiness. Served with warmed marinara sauce for dipping, these are some of the best appetizers you’ll find.

Garlic Parmesan Pizza Rolls

Oh My. There Goes My Self-Control.

To make my garlic Parmesan pizza rolls, I first deep-fried them and then tossed them in the delicious sauce. That’s mostly because I had my deep-fryer out still from a delicious shrimp dinner. I think you could bake them instead, and even air fry them if you wanted. I don’t think they’d be quite as good (nothing’s as good as deep fried!), but they’ll still be covered in the delicious sauce.

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

This recipe was inspired by a recipe from the Salty Side Dish.

Garlic Parmesan Pizza Rolls
Print Pin
4.50 from 2 votes

Garlic Parmesan Pizza Rolls

Delicious little bites that disappear in no time!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword garlic Parmesan, pizza rolls
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 3
Calories 25kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Salty Side Dish

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat a few inches of oil to 350 F in a saucepan, or use a deep fryer.
  • Working in batches if needed, deep fry the pizza rolls for 3 minutes, flipping once.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Transfer pizza rolls to a large bowl.
  • In a separate small bowl, stir together the butter and garlic.
  • Drizzle over the pizza rolls and toss gently to coat.
  • Sprinkle rolls with basil and cheese.
  • Toss gently to coat.
  • Serve with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Notes

I also like to dip these in Ranch dressing.

Nutrition

Calories: 25kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 32mg | Potassium: 58mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 76IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 43mg | Iron: 0.1mg

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

Batter-Fried Shrimp

I’m usually a crunchy-fried-shrimp kind of guy. You know, a bit of flour, a bit of cornmeal. These batter-fried shrimp are a bit different, yet still crunchy. The batter is much like you would find on, say, fried cod for a fish sandwich or a basket of fish and chips. Because I have an unnatural addiction to fish and chips, it’s not surprising that I’m now addicted to these shrimp. The batter stuck perfectly, the shrimp cooked up beautifully golden brown delicious, and all was right in the world again. And I ate more than I should!

Batter-Fried Shrimp

Deliciously Soft Batter

The batter makes the shrimp look a lot bigger than they are. Even though it’s thick, it’s not ‘ewwwy’ thick at all. It’s light and crispy, just like I like. I’d definitely use this same batter on cod. Or chicken legs (who remembers peg legs from Long John Silver’s? They were my favorite!).

Since there’s just the two of us, I use a Fry Daddy fryer for these shrimp. It’s the perfect size for something like this.

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

For a twist, add a few shakes of Old Bay or Creole seasoning to the batter before dipping the shrimp.

Also try my fried shrimp basket.

Batter-Fried Shrimp
Print Pin
4.75 from 4 votes

Batter-Fried Shrimp

The batter recipe would also be great on code fillets.
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 395kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Bake Space

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Pat shrimp dry.
  • Heat a few inches of oil to 350 F in a Dutch oven or a deep fryer.
  • Combine 1/2 cup of oil and the egg and beat well. Add remaining ingredients except oil for frying and stir until smooth.
  • Working in batches, dip shrimp in the batter and coat well.
  • Add shrimp to the fryer and fry for 1 minute. Turn and fry another 1 minute or until golden brown. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain.

Notes

The coating is reminiscent of fish and chips.

Nutrition

Calories: 395kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 609mg | Potassium: 94mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 109IU | Calcium: 49mg | 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

Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

Who wants boring frozen fries? Not me! Not you! In just minutes you can transform that bag of sadness into something great with this copycat Taco Bell Nacho fries. Spicy (as spicy as you want) seasoning that’ll wake you up and make you forget those tasteless fries of yesterday. And the cheese sauce! Oh my! Double the recipe and you’ll thank me, because you seriously cannot get too much of the sauce on your fries!

Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

Crinkles Hold More Of The Good Stuff

For my copycat Taco Bell nacho fries I used crinkle fries. That’s not what you’ll get at the fast food joint. Why did I commit such a heinous crime? Well, those crinkles hold more cheese sauce and the cheese sauce is yummy! Old-school skinny fries aren’t going to give the glorious sauce as much to cling to. Go crinkle and get happy, I say!

I admit that at first, I was pretty sure I didn’t want or need an air fryer. Heck, I can bake my fries in my oven. I can cook my wings on my grill. Yes, I made a lot of excuses for not getting one. Well, the neighbor gave me one of her old ones and I’ve never looked back! I used to cook these copycat Taco Bell nacho fries!

I use a pretty straight-forward air fryer, that doesn’t have a lot of bells (ok, it has a bell for when the timer goes off!) and whistles. It gets the job done.
DASH Deluxe Electric Air Fryer + Oven Cooker with Temperature Control, Non-stick Fry Basket, Recipe Guide + Auto Shut Off Feature, 1700-Watt, 6 Quart - Aqua
DASH Deluxe Electric Air Fryer + Oven Cooker with Temperature Control, Non-stick Fry Basket, Recipe Guide + Auto Shut Off Feature, 1700-Watt, 6 Quart – Aqua

Also try my spicy bacon cheese fries.

Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

The most addicting fries around.
Course Side Dish or Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, fries, Taco Bell
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 125kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the seasoning

For the cheese sauce

For the fries

  • 2 pounds Ore-Ida Golden Fries frozen French fries or your favorite kind

Instructions

For the fries

  • Prepare the fries according to the bag. I recommend making them in an air fryer or deep fryer to get them good and crunchy. While the fries are cooking, making the seasoning and sauce.
  • Transfer the cooked fries to a large bowl and sprinkle with the seasoning blend (using however much or little as you want, you might have leftover seasoning). Toss lightly to coat. Serve with the warm cheese sauce on the side.

For the seasoning

  • Combine the ingredients in a small bowl. I like to put them in a resealable container, close the lid, and shake gently to combine.

For the cheese sauce

  • Heat a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the cheese and heat through. Whisk in the remaining ingredients. Keep warm until needed, stirring occasionally.

Notes

The cheese sauce is great for dipping tortilla chips, too!

Nutrition

Calories: 125kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 1429mg | Potassium: 147mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 522IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 169mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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)

Quick Fix Ramen-Seasoned Chips

I keep a few packages of instant chicken Ramen on hand at all times. Not to make Ramen, but to use the noodles and seasoning in various recipes. I’ve made Ramen-seasoned chicken wings (one of my favorites). A Ramen broccoli slaw. And now, quick fix Ramen-seasoned chips. In just minutes I’m enjoying an almost-criminal indulgence: that salty chicken Ramen seasoning over warm potato chips.

Quick Fix Ramen-Seasoned Chips

The Most Addicting Chips Ever

If you’re like me, you can’t help yourself but to enjoy that little packet of seasoning. So, yeah, put some extra on the chips. Just go for it. You can make up for the extra sodium by using low salt chips…. These quick fix Ramen-seasoned chips did not last long in my house.

Amazon Fresh - Classic Potato Chips, 11 oz (Previously Happy Belly, Packaging May Vary)
Amazon Fresh – Classic Potato Chips, 11 oz (Previously Happy Belly, Packaging May Vary)

Also try my quick fix Bloody Mary chips.

Quick Fix Ramen-Seasoned Chips
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Ramen-Seasoned Chips

Since the seasoning is quite salty, you may want to use low-salt chips.
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword Asian, potato chips
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 1259kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Simple Comfort Food

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4   cups wavy potato chips A few good handfuls worth. I recommend ruffled chips, and no need to get the expensive stuff, store brand is fine
  • 2 packets Ramen seasoning chicken flavor, leftover from a package of Ramen Noodle Soup, or more, to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 275 F.
  • Spread chips out onto a baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes. You should see that the oils in the chips have come to the surface.
  • Gently transfer chips to a large bowl and sprinkle with the seasoning. Use a spatula to carefully stir to coat.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Be gentle when stirring to avoid breaking the chips.

Nutrition

Calories: 1259kcal | Carbohydrates: 127g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 80g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 20g | Monounsaturated Fat: 45g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 1247mg | Potassium: 2839mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 51mg | Calcium: 50mg | 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)

Pesto Shrimp with Mushrooms

If you love pesto you’re really going to love these pesto shrimp with mushrooms. There’s no skimping on the wonderful basil flavors here. Perfectly cooked shrimp. Sautéed mushrooms and a hint of garlic all served over pasta make for a great dish indeed. This was a departure for us from our usually creamy, or fried or grilled shrimp dishes. I am not always keen on pesto, but this helped make a believer out of me.

Pesto Shrimp with Mushrooms

It’s Ok To Ignore My Suggestions

I wouldn’t hesitate to use a bit more red pepper flake the next time I make this pesto shrimp with mushrooms dish. And I’d probably add more garlic too. But keep in mind, I’m a little shy when it comes to pesto. You might actually want to just add more pesto and ignore my ideas. It’s not always a bad idea to ignore my suggestions! Just ask my wife!

I like to use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make these shrimp 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

Also try my cedar planked shrimp with pesto.

Pesto Shrimp with Mushrooms
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Pesto Shrimp with Mushrooms

I wouldn't hesitate to use a bit more red pepper flake the next time I make this dish.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword mushroom, pasta, shrimp
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 96kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Julia’s Album

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.
  • Season the shrimp with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and all of the red pepper flake.
  • Add to skillet and cook 3 minutes, flipping once, until pink and cooked. Remove to a plate.
  • Add remaining oil to the skillet.
  • Add the mushrooms and season with remaining salt.
  • Cook 2-3 minutes or until the mushrooms just start to soften.
  • Add the garlic, stir and cook another minute.
  • Add in the shrimp, pesto and broth.
  • Stir and heat thoroughly but not for very long as you don't want to overcook the shrimp.
  • Serve over rice or pasta garnished with chopped fresh basil, if desired.

Notes

You can use any kind of mushrooms you like.

Nutrition

Calories: 96kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 505mg | Potassium: 134mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 470IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 40mg | 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)

Slow Cooker Cheesesteaks

This slow cooker cheesesteak isn’t meant to be Philly cheesesteak. It’s nothing fancy. Oh you could add peppers or whatever if you want, and it’d be great. But for me, what I needed was something tasty, cheesy, meaty and done with minimal trouble. And that’s exactly what I got. This is a great sandwich any time of the year, but it really hit the spot after I had finished shoveling snow out of the driveway. I was hungry. It was slow cooker cheesesteak time.

Slow Cooker Cheesesteaks

Beefy Cheesy Deliciousness

You can use fresh ribeye, sliced super thin, if you want. For my slow cooker cheesesteaks I used the pre-sliced frozen ribeye I can find in my grocer’s freezer case. It’s right by the Steak Ums, but unlike them, the steak is nothing but sliced steak. It always comes out super tender and it’s actually very reasonably priced. And as an added bonus, I don’t have to slice steak into thin pieces. That can be a bit challenging.

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR)
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR)

Also try my slow cooker cheeseburgers.

Slow Cooker Cheesesteaks
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Slow Cooker Cheesesteaks

You can use fresh ribeye, sliced super thin, if you want.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword crockpot, sandwich, slow cooker, steak
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Servings 8
Calories 551kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Lightly spray your slow cooker with non-stick spray.
  • Add in the onion and steak and the jalapeno, if using.
  • Season well with salt and pepper.
  • Stir, cover and cook on high for 2 hours.
  • Add the Velveeta.
  • Cover and cook on low for 1 more hour.
  • Stir.
  • Serve on rolls.

Notes

Use Mexican blend Velveeta for a nice twist.

Nutrition

Calories: 551kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 93mg | Sodium: 1270mg | Potassium: 641mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 575IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 400mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 6 Count
Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 6 Count

Easy Pimento Cheese Grits

Pimento cheese is one of those things that does not last very long in our house. Make a batch, do a quick errand, come back.. gone! It doesn’t seem to matter how much I make, it’s gone in an instant. Where does it go? Well, one place is in this delicious easy grits dish. Creamy, yummy grits with kicked up pimento cheese. You can’t beat it. Sure, pimento cheese is great on crackers or sandwiches, but in grits… oh me is it ever amazing. Always make extra.

Easy Pimento Cheese Grits

Cheese Grits Elevated

As much as grits are a wonderful thing, the star of this show is the pimento cheese and it deserves the love and the attention it needs to be extraordinary. First, hand shred your cheese. None of that pre-shredded bagged stuff. It has cornstarch or other coatings on it to keep it from sticking. Nope, pass on that. If you’re not a big fan of shredding with your old hand-powered box shredder, get one of these. It’s awesome!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

Second, make the pimento cheese the night before you make this dish. Let it get happy in the fridge, just hanging out. It’s better that way. The flavors and the consistency are better the next day.

Also try my smoked tomato cheese grits.

Easy Pimento Cheese Grits
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Easy Pimento Cheese Grits

Great cheesy creamy grits!
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword grits, pimento cheese
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 818kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the grits

For the pimento cheese

Instructions

For the grits

  • Add the milk and water to a large pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  • Reduce the heat to low and add the grits, stirring as you pour.
  • Add salt to taste.
  • Let the grits simmer for 15 minutes, stirring often, until they are thick and creamy.
  • Turn off the heat. Stir in the pimento cheese and season with pepper.
  • Serve garnished with parsley if desired.

For the pimento cheese

  • Place all ingredients except the salt and pepper into a bowl.
  • Combine.
  • Add salt and pepper to taste and stir.
  • Refrigerate at least an hour before using.

Notes

You can make the pimento cheese the day ahead.

Nutrition

Calories: 818kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 65g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 18g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 118mg | Sodium: 1353mg | Potassium: 292mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 1852IU | Vitamin C: 23mg | Calcium: 809mg | 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)

Philly Style Italian Hoagies

When we want a quick bite for lunch we grab a few Philly style Italian hoagies. They take no time at all to make and are absolutely packed with great flavor. And a bit of a kick. This is the perfect sandwich. Sometimes I  stick to the ‘original’, using fine deli meats and fru-fru cheese. And sometimes I just grab whatever is in the meat drawer. The key to this hoagie is the dressing.

Philly Style Italian Hoagies

Never Soggy. Always Delicious.

I often find myself making Philly style Italian hoagies for my wife’s lunch. It holds up well to bouncing around in a lunch cooler. To keep the bread from getting soggy I insulate the bread by making sure that the dressing and the spicy relish are in between the meat and cheese and not directly touching the bread itself. Boom, problem solved!

Cento Diced Hot Cherry Pepper (Hot) Hoagie Spread - 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)
Cento Diced Hot Cherry Pepper (Hot) Hoagie Spread – 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)

I also love topping this sandwich with spicy hot giardiniera. That’s a sandwich!

Also try my slow cooker cheesesteaks.

Philly Style Italian Hoagies
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5 from 1 vote

Philly Style Italian Hoagies

When we want a quick bite for lunch we grab a few Philly style Italian hoagies. They take no time at all to make and are absolutely packed with great flavor. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Italian, sandwich, submarine
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 1308kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Baker By Nature

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • ½ tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 hoagie rolls
  • 4 ounces prosciutto
  • 4 ounces capicola
  • 4 ounces genoa salami
  • 4 ounces hot soprassata salami
  • 4 ounces provolone cheese sliced thin
  • 1 large tomato sliced thin
  • 1 small onion sliced thin
  • ¼ cup iceberg lettuce shredded
  • ¼ cup hot pepper spread or relish

Instructions

  • Whisk together the vinegar and oregano in a small bowl.
  • Continue whisking while slowly adding the olive oil.
  • Slice the rolls horizontally and remove the bread from the center.
  • Spread half of the vinegar mix over the inside of the rolls.
  • Add the meats, cheese, onion, lettuce and pepper spread.
  • Drizzle with the remaining vinegar mix and serve.

Notes

The dressing is great on any sandwich.

Nutrition

Calories: 1308kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 69g | Fat: 94g | Saturated Fat: 36g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 217mg | Sodium: 5387mg | Potassium: 944mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 1427IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 497mg | Iron: 15mg

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)