Author: Mike

Creamy Garlic Salad Dressing

I picked up a copy of Jeff Mauro’s new book, Come on Over just the other day. You’d think that the first recipe I would make out of the book would be for a sandwich (he is the Sandwich Guy after all), but instead I decided on making the creamy garlic salad dressing. After all, it was Salad Week here (and sadly, not Sandwich Week). And boy, am I ever glad that it was. This is by far our favorite homemade salad dressing. It’s perfectly creamy. It has a good garlic flavor (it’s not lacking in the garlic department). And it has just the right amount of blue cheese tang. You know. That little ‘funk’. Yummy stuff.

Creamy Garlic Salad Dressing

The Perfect Dressing

This creamy garlic salad dressing is divine on salads, but it is also great for dipping vegetables. So make an extra batch because you’ll find yourself as addicted to it as we were. Heck, for the first time in a while, I was happy that it was Salad Week!

Check out my new site, Dress My Salad, for more great salad dressing ideas!

Kakamono 2-pack Porous Squeeze Bottles,Leak Proof Refillable Condiment Container for Kitchen Use,Salad Dressings,top dispensers for ketchup mustard mayo hot sauces olive oil(10 oz)
Kakamono 2-pack Porous Squeeze Bottles,Leak Proof Refillable Condiment Container for Kitchen Use,Salad Dressings,top dispensers for ketchup mustard mayo hot sauces olive oil(10 oz)

Also try my sesame salad dressing.

Creamy Garlic Salad Dressing
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Creamy Garlic Salad Dressing

This creamy garlic salad dressing is divine on salads, but it is also great for dipping vegetables.
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Keyword creamy garlic, salad dressing
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 2 cups
Calories 763kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Jeff Mauro’s Come on Over

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Whisk all ingredients through the gorgonzola until creamy smooth.
  • If the dressing is too thick, whisk in more vinegar, a little at a time.
  • Taste and add salt and pepper as desired.

Notes

Stir or shake before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 763kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 78g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 38g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 76mg | Sodium: 777mg | Potassium: 147mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 521IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 151mg | 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)

Spicy Chicken Nuggets

This is my go-to spicy chicken nugget recipe. I keep a big batch of the seasoning on-hand in the pantry. The chicken comes out slightly crispy, with an out-of-this-world flavor that’s just a tad smoky and spicy. I serve them with whatever dipping sauce I have on hand, which is usually out of a bottle of wing sauce I have in the fridge. Wing sauces were made for nuggets, too.

Spicy Chicken Nuggets

A Great Batter For Chicken Sandwiches Too!

This approach for making spicy chicken nuggets also makes for absolutely great chicken sandwiches. Just use thin-slices of chicken breast instead of bite-sized cubes. Fry them up (they’ll take a bit longer than the nuggets to cook through). Place them on hamburger buns with spicy mayonnaise, lettuce, onion and tomato. Sit down and enjoy one heck of a sandwich.

I make these in my go-to fryer, a Fry Daddy.

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 copycat of Popeye’s popcorn chicken.

Spicy Chicken Nuggets
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Spicy Chicken Nuggets

This is my go-to spicy chicken nugget recipe. I keep a big batch of the seasoning on-hand in the pantry.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword chicken nuggets, spicy
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 223kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chicken

  • 1 ½ cups buttermilk
  • hot sauce optional, but nice
  • 2 small chicken breasts boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized bites
  • oil for frying

For the seasoning

Instructions

For the chicken

  • Place the chicken breast pieces into a shallow dish. Add the buttermilk and hot sauce, if using. Turn the chicken pieces a few times to coat.
  • Let chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Make the seasoning (see below).
  • Heat oil to 350 F in a Dutch oven, skillet or deep fryer.
  • Working in batches if needed, remove chicken bites from the marinade. Shake off excess and transfer to the seasoning. Coat well on all sides.
  • Transfer to the hot oil and fry 5-6 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked thoroughly. Remove to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

For the seasoning

  • In a shallow baking dish or large resealable bag or container, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Whisk together.
  • Add in a few tablespoons of the buttermilk from the chicken marinade and mix.

Notes

These nuggets freeze and reheat great so make extra!

Nutrition

Calories: 223kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 734mg | Potassium: 427mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 696IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 82mg | 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

Roadside Seafood Fried Shrimp

This is my kind of eats. Roadside seafood fried shrimp is exactly what I would order from any highway joint, traveling the back roads. If you drive by those mom-and-pop diners on the way to some chain restaurant, you’re missing out. Crispy fries, battered and fried shrimp and plenty of ketchup (and cocktail sauce please!) and I’m one happy guy.

Roadside Seafood Fried Shrimp

The Shrimp Of Dreams

The original recipe for this roadside seafood fried shrimp recipe came from a (now closed) restaurant in Charleston, SC. I scaled it down a bit. I like a little spiciness, so I’d be tempted to add more hot sauce next time. If you don’t have blackened seasoning, Creole or Cajun seasoning make for a great substitute. You want to really season the seafood breading well.

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

Yes, the serving size does say this recipe feeds four. I personally love shrimp so much that I’d be more inclined to say it serves two. At most. And since there’s just the two of us, I used my Fry Daddy fryer to make these. It’s small, uses little oil and does a knock-out job on shrimp and anything else!

Also try my Old Bay Southern fried shrimp and my Mac and Ernie’s fried shrimp, too!

Roadside Seafood Fried Shrimp
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4.50 from 2 votes

Roadside Seafood Fried Shrimp

This is my kind of eats. Roadside seafood fried shrimp is exactly what I would order from any highway joint, traveling the back roads.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 169kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from The Food Network

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or Dutch oven to 350 F.
  • In a pie plate or medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, blackened seasoning and the egg.
  • Place the seafood breading in another pie plate or shallow bowl.
  • Working in batches if needed, place the shrimp into the buttermilk mixture and coat well.
  • Remove the shrimp and shake off any excess coating.
  • Transfer to the breading and toss to coat.
  • Remove the shrimp and shake off any excess breading.
  • Place in the hot oil and fry 2-3 minutes or until done (they float to the top and turn pink).
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve.

Notes

Great served with cocktail sauce or tartar sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 169kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 339mg | Sodium: 1400mg | Potassium: 198mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 177IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 241mg | Iron: 3mg

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

Spicy Hot Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Give me a grill, a Vortex full of lit charcoal, and a few pieces of chicken and I’m one happy guy. One of my all-time favorite things to make on charcoal my grill is ‘fried’ chicken using the Vortex. I’ve made countless variations, all fantastic. Like this spicy hot fried chicken using the Vortex. Just like all my others, it tastes and looks just like chicken fried in oil. This version brings a bit of heat. Just the right amount. And oh, so tender, juicy meat. This is a great, easy way to prepare delicious chicken. You’ll seriously not think this was done over coals and you’ll definitely think it’s deep fried in oil.

Spicy Hot Fried Chicken using the Vortex

So Simple. So Delicious.

I have a few Vortex inserts because, well, I have a few grills. By far my favorite setup is the Vortex in my Weber charcoal grill. I can easily fit 8 large bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts around the grill without crowding them. They have never come out anything but fantastic. It’s as easy as you can get to make something like this spicy hot fried Chicken using the Vortex. You just need a few ingredients and some charcoal and you’re ready to cook!

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 Vortex southern marinated fried chicken.

Spicy Hot Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Spicy Hot Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This version brings a bit of heat. Just the right amount. And oh, so tender, juicy meat.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, spicy, Vortex
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 day 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 370kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chicken

  • 4 large chicken pieces
  • vegetable oil for brushing at the end of cooking

For the marinade

For the dredge

Instructions

For the marinade

  • Combine all ingredients.
  • Place chicken in a large resealable container or bag.
  • Add the marinade. Seal and shake to coat.
  • Refrigerate overnight, turning once or twice.

For the dredge

  • Combine all ingredients.

For the chicken

  • Load up your Vortex full of charcoal and light.
  • Once fully lit, remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
  • Coat pieces thoroughly in the dredge.
  • Transfer chicken to around the Vortex and close the lid, keeping the top vent open.
  • Cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F. Turn the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes of cook time if desired.
  • Lightly brush the chicken with oil and continue cooking another 5 minutes.

Notes

I prefer bone-in, skin-on thighs.

Nutrition

Calories: 370kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 87mg | Sodium: 889mg | Potassium: 285mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 212IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 3mg

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

Tub’s Coal Miner’s Slaw

I am a certified, card-carrying member of the Coleslaw Addicts Club, also known as the CAC. Ok, I made that up. But if there was such a club I’d be in it and I’d probably be its president. Because I can eat any kind of slaw, any time, anywhere. I almost always order slaw when eating out. Now, true, I’m not sure if coal miner’s ate a lot of slaw, but if their slaw was anything like this from Tub’s Fine Chili (sadly now closed) they probably did. Buttermilk and vinegar do make this one wonderful slaw. Different than your normal creamy slaw. And different than your normal vinegar slaw. It’s like having the best of both in one.

Tub's Coal Miner's Slaw

Add The Dressing To Taste

This recipe for Tub’s coal miner’s slaw might make a bit more dressing than you want. That wasn’t the case for me, but I don’t mind a nice ‘wet’ slaw. I’d say add some of the dressing and see what you think. It’s a lot easier to add more later than it is to take it out.

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 Asian slaw.

Tub's Coal Miner's Slaw
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Tub’s Coal Miner’s Slaw

I wouldn't change a thing about this recipe.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword cole slaw, coleslaw, slaw
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings 8
Calories 1576kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Tub’s Fine Chili and Fancy Fixin’s

Equipment

Ingredients

For the slaw

  • 1 pound slaw mix with cabbage, shredded carrots, etc

For the dressing

Instructions

  • Place the slaw mix in a large bowl.
  • Whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, lemon juice, cider vinegar, vinegar, vegetable oil and sugar in a medium bowl. Add the salt, pepper, celery seed, onion powder and granulated garlic. Whisk until well combined.
  • Slowly start adding the dressing to the slaw, stirring as you go. Stop when the slaw is the desired consistency. I used all of the dressing, you might not. Reserve any unused dressing for later use.
  • Refrigerate slaw for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 1576kcal | Carbohydrates: 90g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 131g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 76g | Monounsaturated Fat: 30g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 4772mg | Potassium: 1126mg | Fiber: 13g | Sugar: 75g | Vitamin A: 767IU | Vitamin C: 184mg | Calcium: 395mg | Iron: 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)

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
Print Pin
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)