Author: Mike

Cheesy Ranch 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.

What could be better than roasted potatoes packed with wonderful ranch flavor and covered in cheese? Yeah, nothing. These cheesy ranch potatoes on the Char-Broil Big Easy were done in no time flat. The Big Easy is a great side-making machine. And it doesn’t heat up the house, which is sure great these days because it’s HOT here in Indiana!

Cheesy-Ranch-Potatoes-on-the-Char-Broil-Big-Easy

Get A Bunk Bed Basket

You can fit a single disposable pan (for 3/4 pounds of potatoes) in the basket that comes with your Big Easy. Get a bunk bed basket and you can do a full 1 1/2 pounds of cheesy Ranch potatoes on the Char-Broil Big Easy at once. You have to get a bunk bed for your Char-Broil Big Easy. It’s a must-have. It doubles the amount of cooking space you have. And more, it enables you to easily cook a side dish like these potatoes at the same time that you are cooking the main dish.

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

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 garlic potatoes in dill sauce, also made on a Big Easy.

Cheesy-Ranch-Potatoes-on-the-Char-Broil-Big-Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Although you can cook the potatoes in the Big Easy from start to finish, I recommend using a microwave to par-cook them first.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, Ranch, roasted potatoes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 189kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy. Meanwhile, prepare the potatoes.
  • Place the potatoes into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 3 minutes on high. Stir and check for doneness. Microwave another 2 minutes (or longer if needed) until just tender. Do not over-cook, they need to have a little bite to them.
  • Drizzle the potatoes with the oil.
  • Sprinkle with the Ranch seasoning and salt and pepper. Stir to coat completely.
  • Divide the potatoes between two disposable pans and transfer the pans to a Big Easy basket fitted with a Bunk Bed so you can cook both pans at the same time.
  • Place the basket into the Big Easy and cook for 10 minutes or until the potatoes start to turn golden brown around the edges.
  • Divide the cheese between the two pans and return to the Big Easy to melt, another 3-5 minutes.
  • Carefully remove the pans from the Big Easy and serve.

Notes

You can use any cheese you like!

Nutrition

Calories: 189kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 831mg | Potassium: 493mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 201IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 148mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Homemade Crispy Potato Chips

I’ve tried a number of times to make great homemade deep-fried crispy potato chips. And sometimes they were good, and sometimes they weren’t. Something was missing from my technique, my approach. And I’ve found it: vinegar. Soaking the potatoes in vinegar helps them get nice and crispy, and that’s our goal in life when making chips.

Homemade Crispy Potato Chips

Oh So Crispy!

I season my homemade crispy potato chips with seasoned salt instead of ‘just’ kosher salt. You can use anything you like. Fresh ground black pepper is great too. Take a gander at your spice cabinet and you’ll likely find something else that would also be great on chips. Just don’t use anything that is real coarse. You want a fine texture to your seasoning.

I use my Fry Daddy fryer to make these chips.

PS: I use Canola oil for frying my potato chips.

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

Also try my crispy Parmesan potatoes.

Homemade Crispy Potato Chips
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Crispy Potato Chips

I’ve tried a number of times to make great deep-fried crispy potato chips at home. And sometimes they were good, and sometimes they weren’t. Something was missing from my technique, my approach. And I’ve found it: vinegar
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword crispy, deep-fried, potato chips
Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 560kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Bon Appetit

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Skin the potatoes, if desired.
  • Slice the potatoes 1/8" thick using a mandolin.
  • Transfer to a large bowl of cold water.
  • Stir the potatoes around with your hand then drain.
  • Fill will cold water again and stir and drain again.
  • Repeat until the drained water is clear.
  • Cover the potatoes with cold water one last time and add the vinegar.
  • Stir and let rest 2 hours.
  • Drain the potatoes and pat dry. I lay out a few kitchen towels and spread the potatoes out. Then I cover them with more towels and gently push down to dry.
  • Heat oil in your deep fryer to 300 F. (The small deep fryer I used does not let me adjust the temperature. It cooks around 325 – 350 F, and still made great chips).
  • Working in small batches, fry the potatoes, turning often, until golden brown.
  • Transfer to a wire rack to drain and sprinkle with salt.

Notes

I prefer to serve these immediately. They’re best soon after getting out of the fryer.

Nutrition

Calories: 560kcal | Carbohydrates: 123g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 37mg | Potassium: 2840mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 7IU | Vitamin C: 39mg | Calcium: 96mg | Iron: 6mg

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

Creamy Crab Salad Sandwiches

I’m pretty sure I’m addicted to crab salad. And my preferred way to enjoy it is on bread. These creamy crab salad sandwiches are exactly what I like the most. Chunky crab (imitation works fine, trust me). Plenty of creamy mayonnaise (Blue Plate is my favorite). And plenty of crunchy onion and celery. And you have to have dill. It’s the perfect combination for an easy, delicious lunch.

Creamy Crab Salad Sandwiches

More Dill Makes Them More Better

If you have fresh dill, by all means use that instead of dry. I’d start with about half of a tablespoon and go from there. I’m pretty much a dill addict, so I’m sure I’d end up adding more. These creamy crab salad sandwiches are great, but they’re even better with more dill!

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)

This recipe is based on a recipe from Dinner Then Dessert.

Creamy Crab Salad Sandwiches
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4 from 1 vote

Creamy Crab Salad Sandwiches

These creamy crab salad sandwiches are great, but they're even better with more dill!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword crab, salad, sandwich
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings 4
Calories 444kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Dinner Then Dessert

Equipment

Ingredients

For the creamy crab salad

For the sandwiches

  • 8 slices bread

Instructions

For the creamy crab salad

  • Place all of the crab salad ingredients into a large bowl and stir gently until combined.
  • Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

For the sandwiches

  • Toast the bread as desired.
  • Divide the creamy crab salad between 4 slices of bread. Top with remaining bread and serve.

Notes

You can also serve these sandwiches on croissants or brioche buns.

Nutrition

Calories: 444kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 14g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 1573mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 131IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 142mg | 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)

Buffalo Queso Dip

This is how you kick up your standard queso dip. Add in some Buffalo wing-inspired flavors and you’ve got a hit. I certainly can’t get enough of it. Lightly spicy, creamy, with a hint of smokiness (I used fire-roasted tomatoes), it’s a fantastic dip to serve along my other favorite appetizer, Buffalo wings! We made this Buffalo Queso dip for the Super Bowl and it was perfect!

Buffalo Queso Dip

Ole For Great Queso!

Feel free to make a few tweaks to this recipe for Buffalo Queso dip to suit your tastes. Substitute chopped (drained) green chiles for the pepper. Instead of regular Velveeta substitute Mexican or even Queso Blanco. This recipe doubles or even triples easily, making it great for a crowd!

I always have Cholula hot sauce on hand so that’s what I used. I have different flavors so I can make this dip to my tastes!

Cholula Hot Sauce Variety Pack, Product of Mexico, Gift Set Includes Six 5 Fl Oz Signature Cholula Hot Sauces for Eggs, Pizza, Mexican Dishes, and More, 30 fl oz
Cholula Hot Sauce Variety Pack, Product of Mexico, Gift Set Includes Six 5 Fl Oz Signature Cholula Hot Sauces for Eggs, Pizza, Mexican Dishes, and More, 30 fl oz

Also try my Buffalo Ranch pretzel bites!

Buffalo Queso Dip
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Buffalo Queso Dip

This is how you kick up your standard queso dip.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Buffalo, cheesy, dip
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Servings 8
Calories 87kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients in a small slow cooker sprayed with non-stick spray.
  • Heat on high for 2 hours, stirring often, until cheese is melted. Reduce heat to warm and serve.
  • You can also bake this dip in a small baking dish at 375 F for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Nutrition

Calories: 87kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 12mg | Sodium: 741mg | Potassium: 250mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 419IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 191mg | 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)

Mile High Memphis-Style BBQ Nachos

Oh how I do love nachos piled high with smoked pulled pork, cheese and jalapeno. There’s no point in doing it half-way, either. These Mile High Memphis-style BBQ nachos bring it. Three layers of nachos. Bite after bite of BBQ goodness. The perfect way to use up leftover pork, beef or chicken.

Mile High Memphis Style BBQ Nachos

What Nachos Should Be

I prefer to use either fire-roasted jalapenos or green chiles on my nachos. Roasting chiles is the way to go, adding a little more smokiness to the dish. You can find canned roasted chiles in your grocery store, near the Hispanic food section. I always keep a few cans on hand because they’re great in lots of other dishes, not just nachos.

I served my Mile High Memphis-style BBQ nachos in a cast iron fajita skillet. It’s great for cooking and serving.

Fajita Plate Set - Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Fajita Pan with Wooden Tray and Hot Mitt by Old Mountain
Fajita Plate Set – Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Fajita Pan with Wooden Tray and Hot Mitt by Old Mountain

Also try my Denver omelet nachos.

Mile High Memphis Style BBQ Nachos
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5 from 1 vote

Mile High Memphis Style BBQ Nachos

These Mile High Memphis-style BBQ nachos bring it. Three layers of nachos. Bite after bite of BBQ goodness. The perfect way to use up leftover pork, beef or chicken.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword BBQ, nachos
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 337kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 F or fire up your grill for indirect cooking.
  • I like to use cast iron fajita skillets for this recipe, but you can use a large cast iron skillet or a baking sheet.
  • Spread out 1/3rd of the chips.
  • Drizzle with 1/3rd of the cheese and sprinkle with 1/3 of the pork.
  • Repeat the layers two more times.
  • Transfer to the grill or oven and cook until the chips are warmed and the cheese is nice and gooey hot.
  • Sprinkle with jalapenos and serve.

Notes

Have some hot sauce nearby too!

Nutrition

Calories: 337kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 92mg | Sodium: 1340mg | Potassium: 663mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 637IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 353mg | 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)

Copycat Popeye’s Delta Dipping Sauce

Happiness is making a sauce for dipping chicken nuggets or fingers that can also be used in many, many other ways. This copycat Popeye’s Delta dipping sauce is exactly that. It’s very similar to some of the comeback sauces I’ve made or had. This Cajun-inspired dipping sauce really steps up your dipping game and them some. It also is great on po boy sandwiches. Or any sandwiches for that matter. And even hot dogs. And chicken sandwiches, too!

Copycat Popeye's Delta Dipping Sauce

Creole Mustard Makes This Sauce Great

I really think that a good, strong Creole mustard makes this copycat Popeye’s Delta dipping sauce something amazing. You can use any mustard you want, you don’t have to stick to the original idea at all, but in my mind there’s only one Creole mustard and it’s made by Zatarain’s. The extra kick of the Creole mustard really made for a fantastic spread on a fried shrimp po boy sandwich. Which reminds me. This sauce is also great for dipping fried shrimp or oysters!

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 copycat Popeye’s blackened Ranch dipping sauce.

Copycat Popeye's Delta Dipping Sauce
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Copycat Popeye’s Delta Dipping Sauce

Happiness is making a sauce for dipping chicken nuggets or fingers that can also be used in many, many other ways. This copycat Popeye’s Delta dipping sauce is exactly that.
Course Dipping Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, dipping sauce
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings 1 cup
Calories 1394kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl.
  • Cover and refrigerate for one hour.

Notes

Stir before using.

Nutrition

Calories: 1394kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 139g | Saturated Fat: 58g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 2258mg | Potassium: 581mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin A: 935IU | Vitamin C: 25mg | Calcium: 59mg | Iron: 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)

Italian Breadsticks

We’ve been trying to perfect our breadsticks approach for years. It’s sad to admit that. But something always went weird. No flavor. Over-baked. Whatever, something always just didn’t quite work out right. Ugh. Heck, they’re just breadsticks, I know! Well, no more. These Italian breadsticks are absolutely fantastic. We made them on our wood pizza oven, but you can make them just as easily and just as good in your oven. They’re light and fluffy, very tasty and perfect for dipping in warmed marinara sauce.

Italian Breadsticks

Store-Bought Dough For The Win

You can certainly go through the steps of making your own pizza dough when you make Italian breadsticks. We’ve discovered a frozen dough, Tiseo’s, at our local grocery store that is perfect for breadsticks. And pizza. You can’t beat the final product. It’s just great! Any decent store-bought dough will do. Just make sure you give it ample time to defrost if it is frozen.

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

Also try my fried Mozzarella sticks.

Italian Breadsticks
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Italian Breadsticks

You can certainly go through the steps of making your own pizza dough when you make Italian breadsticks.
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Keyword breadsticks, Italian
Prep Time 13 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 240kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Remove the dough from the freezer and place in the fridge overnight to thaw.
  • One hour before you plan on making the breadsticks remove the dough from the fridge and place on your countertop to come to room temperature.
  • Preheat your oven to 425 F.
  • Lightly flour a flat work surface, such as a countertop.
  • Lightly oil your pizza pan.
  • Sprinkle with cornmeal.
  • Remove the dough from its packaging and, using your palms or a rolling pin, form into a round that is roughly the size of your pizza pan. Try to not overwork the dough.
  • Transfer dough to the pan.
  • In a small pan over low heat, melt the butter.
  • Stir in the garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
  • Brush over the dough. Remember, edge-to-edge is our pledge so get it all around!
  • Cover the dough with the cheese, again getting it everywhere!
  • Bake the dough for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and lightly crispy. If desired, turn the broiler on for 1 minute to further brown the top.
  • Remove from oven. Transfer to a cutting board and cut into sticks.
  • Serve with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Also great dunked in Ranch salad dressing!

Nutrition

Calories: 240kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 564mg | Potassium: 27mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 257IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 129mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Lodge BOLD 14 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Pizza Pan, Design-Forward Cookware
Lodge BOLD 14 Inch Seasoned Cast Iron Pizza Pan, Design-Forward Cookware

Buffalo Shrimp

I have what can easily be described as an addiction to Buffalo wings and anything with Buffalo wing sauce in the ingredients. So it came as no surprise that I devoured these Buffalo shrimp. I made them on the grill, which was about as easy to do as possible, but you can also make them in the oven. The shrimp soak up the fantastic sauce in no time. I loved them, and definitely should’ve made more!

Buffalo Shrimp

Who Needs Wings?

I used a nice medium Buffalo wing sauce when I made these shrimp. I love the flavor of shrimp. And I didn’t want some mouth-blisteringly-hot sauce burying that great taste. I could easily see making a mix of medium and mild for appetizers for a get-together. The shrimp only take a few minutes to cook so you can satisfy a crowd in no time at all. Serving them with blue cheese or ranch dressing is optional, in my opinion. They’re great by themselves!

Oh, don’t forget that the oyster shells are super hot when taken off the grill. You might want to let your guests know to not handle them for at least a few minutes. They do cool off relatively quickly.

Outset 76471 Stainless Steel Grillable Oyster Shells, Set of 12, SIlver
Outset 76471 Stainless Steel Grillable Oyster Shells, Set of 12, SIlver

Also try my spicy bacon-wrapped shrimp.

Buffalo Shrimp
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Buffalo Shrimp

These spicy shrimp are sure to disappear in no time!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, oyster shells, shrimp
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 5kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the shrimp in a bowl.
  • Combine the spices and sprinkle over the shrimp. Toss to coat.
  • Place shrimp in the oyster shells. Add enough Buffalo sauce to almost fill the shells.
  • Cook the shrimp (see below). Warning: The sauce will be very hot as will the shells, so be careful handing them after they are cooked.
  • Serve with blue cheese dressing for dipping if desired.

In the oven

  • Bake at 350 F for 10 minutes or until the shrimp are no longer translucent and the sauce is hot and bubbly.

On the grill

  • Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes or until the shrimp are no longer translucent and the sauce is hot and bubbly.

Notes

Of course these shrimp are also great served with a little Ranch dressing!

Nutrition

Calories: 5kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 20mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 53IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 4mg | 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)

Chili Cheese Fries

I had bar food on my brain. Not sure how it got there but I was dreaming of potato skins, nachos, sliders… and chili cheese fries. Nothing beats a bowl on a cold day, sure… but put it over crispy potatoes and top it with a creamy, ooey-gooey cheese sauce, and well… Hey, it’s bar food time!

Chili Cheese Fries

Load ‘Em Up

You could keep going with the toppings on chili cheese fries. Yeah, throw some sliced jalapenos on there, sure. Some sour cream? Yeah. Whatever you want, it can go on there because there aren’t any rules when it comes to bar food. I know because I’ve eaten my share of bar food. Bar food is meant to be decadent, over-the-top good.

You could make this same dish with crispy, hot baked (or fried) tater tots. In fact, now that I thought of that, I’ll be doing that next. There’s nothing better than hot loaded fries or tots.

I cooked and served these fries on my cast iron fajita skillet. It’s easy to clean up (even with the melted cheese) and it looks great.

Fajita Plate Set - Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Fajita Pan with Wooden Tray and Hot Mitt by Old Mountain
Fajita Plate Set – Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Fajita Pan with Wooden Tray and Hot Mitt by Old Mountain
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

To really kick these up, top them with my prime rib chili!

This recipe is based on a recipe from Small Town Woman.

Chili Cheese Fries
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Chili Cheese Fries

Nothing beats chili on a cold day
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chili, fries
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 199kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Small Town Woman

Equipment

Ingredients

For the fries

  • 26 ounce frozen French fries
  • 4 cups chili I made a batch of Carrol Shelby's chili, but you can use your own recipe or even canned chili, whichever you prefer
  • other toppings optional, consider adding sliced jalapenos, sour cream, whatever you like!

For the cheese sauce

Instructions

For the fries

  • Prepare the fries per package instructions. Meanwhile make the cheese sauce (below).
  • Serve fries topped with chili, cheese sauce and whatever favorite toppings you prefer.

For the cheese sauce

  • Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, whisking constantly.
  • Add the garlic powder, onion powder and chili powder and whisk to combine.
  • While whisking, slowly add in the milk. Let the sauce come to a simmer and stir to thicken.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheese until smooth, creamy and melted. If the sauce gets too thick stir in a bit more milk.

Notes

For a good kick, use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Nutrition

Calories: 199kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 220mg | Potassium: 433mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1350IU | Vitamin C: 144mg | Calcium: 283mg | 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)

Kickin’ Cajun Potato Wedges using the Vortex

It only took me one time making potato wedges using my Vortex BBQ on my Weber charcoal grill to turn me into a full-blown addict. I use my Vortex a lot, to say the least. Wings, fried chicken, mostly but now also for a fantastic side dish. These Kickin’ Cajun potato wedges using the Vortex bring a nice kick, crispy skin, and cream potato-y insides. Get the ketchup out, if you want, or eat them straight-up. You can’t go wrong with them, that’s for sure!

Kickin' Cajun Potato Wedges using the Vortex

Flavor-Packed Potatoes

The key to these Kickin’ Cajun potato wedges using the Vortex is the Kickin’ Cajun seasoning from Kosmos Q. Normally used as a wing dust, I’ve found that it’s much, much more than that. Like on these potatoes. It brings a bit of heat. Actually, quite a bit the more you use. So give it a (small) taste first to see how much kick you want.

Try and make sure you cut your potato wedges the same size as much as possible. You want them to cook evenly. And definitely don’t cut them too thin, like potato straws or French fries. Nice thick wedges are what you are after. If you end up with lil ole pieces at the edges of the potato, don’t use them for this.

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg

Also try my garlic Parmesan potato wedges using the Vortex.

Kickin' Cajun Potato Wedges using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

Kickin’ Cajun Potato Wedges using the Vortex

These Kickin' Cajun potato wedges bring a nice kick, crispy skin, and cream potato-y insides. You'll eat them like popcorn.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword potatoes, Vortex
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 344kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fill your Vortex BBQ with charcoal and light it up while preparing the potatoes.
  • Slice potatoes in half lengthwise, then half again lengthwise, and finally one more time lengthwise (i.e. you're cutting them into 1/8ths). You don't want them super thin, so for smaller potatoes you might only have to cut them 1/4ths.
  • Transfer to a bowl.
  • Drizzle the potatoes with the oil and toss to coat.
  • Sprinkle the potatoes with the seasoning and baking powder and toss to coat. I've found that stirring them with your hands works best.
  • Once the charcoal is just ashed over place the potato wedges in a circle around the edges of your grill. Don't let the potatoes touch. It's ok if you need to put them in two or three rows. If some pieces are thicker than others try to locate those nearer the fire.
  • Place the cover on the grill with the top and bottom vents wide open.
  • Cook for 20-30 minutes, rotating the lid 90 degrees every 5 or so minutes. Start checking the potatoes after 15 minutes. Sometimes one side off the grill needs more heat as the wedges there aren't cooking quite as quickly as others. Just rotate the lid so the vent is near that side and let cook a bit longer.
  • Remove and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results use wedges that are all about the same size.

Nutrition

Calories: 344kcal | Carbohydrates: 77g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 204mg | Potassium: 1779mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 24IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 117mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC