Author: Mike

The Best Meatloaf Recipes

I’m a huge fan of meatloaf. Meaty. Tender. Moist. Delicious. Sliced thin. Slicked thick. Anyway you do it, you can’t go wrong with meatloaf. These are what I consider to be the best meatloaf recipes.

1
Jalapeno Cheddar Meatloaf
Jalapeno Cheddar Meatloaf
Deliciously moist with a nice spicy kick!
Check out this recipe
2
Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
The stuffing adds the best flavor to the meatloaf.
Check out this recipe
3
Cedar Plank Meatloaf
Cedar Plank Meatloaf
Oh my goodness. I was already a card-carrying meatloaf addict before cedar plank meatloaf came into my life. Now, my meatloaf obsession is completely out of control.
Check out this recipe
4
Mexican Meatloaf
Mexican Meatloaf
This Mexican meatloaf takes meatloaf to a new spicy, flavor-packed place. There’s absolutely nothing boring about it, that’s for sure, from the tender moist meat mixture, packed with vegetables, to the spicy smoky tomato salsa topping. Is it just as great the next day? Oh, it’s even better!
Check out this recipe
5
Barbecue Meatloaf
Barbecue Meatloaf
You never, ever have to tell me twice that dinner is ready if it involves meatloaf. I’ve never had a meatloaf that I didn’t like. And I’ve had a few that I absolutely loved, like this barbecue meatloaf.
Check out this recipe
6
Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This is great meatloaf. It has the perfect balance of texture and flavor. It’s not crazy different than what grandma would make. It’s old school and it’s incredibly great. Great on a plate sliced or on bread as a meatloaf sandwich. You can’t beat it.
Check out this recipe
7
Easy Creole Meatloaf
Easy Creole Meatloaf
This easy Creole meatloaf hit the spot and it definitely did not break my meatloaf rule. Great flavor. Moist. And just a hint of spiciness.
Check out this recipe
8
Smoked Habanero Meatloaf
Smoked Habanero Meatloaf
This smoked habanero meatloaf is by far my favorite. The meat comes out tender, with a nice smokey flavor (though you can make it in the oven and still have a fantastic dish).
Check out this recipe
9
Smoked Italian Meatloaf
Smoked Italian Meatloaf
When I saw this idea for a smoked Italian meatloaf I was all over it in a heartbeat. It’s a combination of what I consider a fairly traditional meat mixture infused with Italian flavors, but then comes the tasty cool part. It’s stuffed with prosciutto, arugula, and provolone cheese! Mama mia!
Check out this recipe
10
Cajun Meatloaf
Cajun Meatloaf
This Cajun meatloaf is unbelievably tender and tasty. The vegetable mixture is amazing, keeping the meatloaf moist and adding some crunchy to boot.
Check out this recipe
11
Smoked Habanero Meatloaf Version 2.0
Deluxe Smoked Habanero Meatloaf
This smoked habanero meatloaf is by far my favorite. The meat comes out tender, with a nice smoky flavor (though you can make it in the oven and still have a fantastic dish). And of course, there’s a kick.
Check out this recipe
12
Pepper Jack Meat Loaf
Pepper Jack Meatloaf
I was all over this cheesy pepper jack meatloaf recipe when I came across. It's like a Juicy Lucy burger but in meatloaf form.
Check out this recipe
13
Meatloaf TV Dinner Part 1 - The smoked meatloaf
Meatloaf TV Dinner Part 1: The smoked meatloaf
Fantastic meatloaf. Absolutely the best meatloaf you’ll ever eat.
Check out this recipe
14
Mini Habanero Meatloaves on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Mini Habanero Meatloaves on the Char-Broil Big Easy
These crazy-good mini habanero meatloaves cooked on the Char-Broil Big Easy cook in almost no time at all, which is a good thing because you’ll want to get to eating them as soon as possible. 
Check out this recipe
15
Spicy Hot Meat Loaf using a Grill
Spicy Hot Meatloaf using a Grill
Delicious grilled meatloaf with a nice kick.
Check out this recipe
16
Meatloaf Smash Burgers
Meatloaf Smash Burgers
Flavor-packed juicy smash burgers!
Check out this recipe
17
All-American Meatloaf on the Char-Broil Big Easy
All-American Meatloaf on the Char-Broil Big Easy
These all-American meatloaves are fantastic. And so unbelievably easy. From making the meat mixture to cooking them, they are about as hassle-free as you can get.
Check out this recipe
18
BBQ Meatloaf Sandwiches
BBQ Meatloaf Sandwiches
As much as I do love meatloaf, for me the best meatloaf is on a sandwich like on these BBQ meatloaf sandwiches.
Check out this recipe
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)

Quick Fix Sweet-And-Savory Potato Chips

Boring potato chips. Not in my house. Not since I discovered taking plain-old regular chips to a new level. Like these quick fix sweet-and-savory potato chips. All it takes is a bag of chips and some seasoning. A few minutes in the oven and you’re soon enjoying chips that pack in flavor in every bite. Every single one. None of that ‘oh, shoot another chip that didn’t get any seasoning’ like you experience in the store-bought bags. Now I can load my chips up with tons of flavor. Slightly sweet, with a touch of spices such as thyme and sage, these chips are different and delicious.

Quick Fix Sweet-And-Savory Potato Chips

Go Ruffled

The key to making these quick fix sweet-and-savory potato chips is using ruffled chips. Yes, you can use ‘smooth’ chips and you’ll have a great snack. But to make them fantastic, you want more of the seasoning on every chip, in every bite. That’s where those ridges come in. They’ll grab the flavor and keep it on the chips, where it belongs.

Check Your Pantry

I used the Sweet Peeper seasoning from Fire and Smoke Society to make these treats. No, that’s not a typo. It’s ‘peeper’ as in chicken. I used a chicken rub. This is proof that you can think way out of the box and make new flavors, new chips that no one else would think of. Go take a gander at your pantry. I bet you’ll find great seasonings that’ll make for great chips too!

Fire & Smoke Society Pork & Chicken Seasoning Variety Pack | BBQ Rubs and BBQ Seasonings for Smoking and Grilling | Pork, Chicken, Turkey, | Large Spices Set (4-Pack)
Fire & Smoke Society Pork & Chicken Seasoning Variety Pack | BBQ Rubs and BBQ Seasonings for Smoking and Grilling | Pork, Chicken, Turkey, | Large Spices Set (4-Pack)

Also make some quick fix ranch potato chips.

Quick Fix Sweet-And-Savory Potato Chips
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5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Sweet-And-Savory Potato Chips

Sweet and savory combine for an exciting snack!
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword potato chips, quick fix
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 452kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Simple Comfort Food

Equipment

Ingredients

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.

Nutrition

Calories: 452kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 448mg | Potassium: 1020mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 18mg | 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)

Roasted Red Pepper Panini using the Cuisinart Griddler

Oh you delicious, crunchy, dripping, yummy sandwich you! This roasted red pepper panini using the Cuisinart Griddler is just another reason my Griddler is right there on my countertop. Front and center. Used almost daily. Because in just minutes I can have a restaurant-quality sandwich for a fraction of the cost. Hot off the press. Perfect.

Roasted Red Pepper Panini using the Cuisinart Griddler

The World Is Your Panini

I tend to put Italian deli meats on my sandwiches. It’s not required. You can use your favorites. But I have found that Aldi makes this wonderful pack of Italian meats that also includes provolone cheese. It’s priced right and makes for fantastic sandwiches like this roasted red pepper panini using the Cuisinart Griddler. This isn’t rocket science, as they say. Just use good ingredients and you’ll have a great sandwich.

Just Leave It Be

After you place your sandwich on the hot griddle just leave it alone. Don’t go playing with it. Don’t turn it. Or flip it. Don’t open it to see what’s going on between the slices of bread. Just wait until the outsides get toasty crunchy brown. Then remove it. Then enjoy.

Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-IN-1, GR-4NP1
Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-IN-1, GR-4NP1

Also try an Italian panini with giardiniera relish.

Roasted Red Pepper Panini using the Cuisinart Griddler
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5 from 1 vote

Roasted Red Pepper Panini using the Cuisinart Griddler

A restaurant-quality sandwich for a fraction of the cost.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Griddler, sandwich
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 473kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 slices Italian bread thicker is better
  • 4 slices Genoa salami
  • 6 slices hot salami or sandwich pepperoni
  • 2 slices provolone cheese
  • roasted red pepper to taste, cut into strips or chopped, patted dry
  • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil olive oil
  • mayonnaise to taste, optional

Instructions

  • Pre-heat your Griddler with the dials set for high-heat panini griddles.
  • Set out the bread slices on a cutting board or counter top.
  • Top with the meats and cheese.
  • Top the sandwiches with the peppers.
  • Add the top slices of bread to form the sandwiches.
  • Brush the outsides of the bread slices with the oil.
  • Transfer to the Griddler and close the lid. Cook until the bread is golden brown and crunchy.
  • Remove and let cool slightly before opening to add mayonnaise to inside of top pieces of bread.
  • Slice and serve.

Notes

Do not put a lot of pressure on the griddle lid while cooking as it will cause the meats and cheese to escape. Try to keep the lid level so that the tops of the sandwiches cook evenly.

Nutrition

Calories: 473kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 49mg | Sodium: 1304mg | Potassium: 283mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 167IU | Calcium: 149mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

OXO Good Grips Electric Grill and Panini Press Brush, Black
OXO Good Grips Electric Grill and Panini Press Brush, Black

Hot Dog Baked Beans on the Char-Broil Big Easy

I love putting hot dogs in baked beans. I think it harkens back to being a kid eating beans-and-weenies. That joy of digging around in the beans, in search of the never-enough hot dogs. Well now that I’m (much) older, I can add as many hot dogs as I want. No countless minutes wasted here trying to find hot dogs. My hot dog baked beans on the Char-Broil Big Easy aren’t lacking in anything. Hot dogs or flavor.

Hot Dog Baked Beans on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Super Easy Cook. Super Easy Cleanup.

One of the great things about the Char-Broil Big Easy is easy cleanup. I cook my hot dog based beans in a disposable pan. It’s great. You couldn’t get any easier. Just put everything in the pan and sit back and relax while the cooker does its job. The sauce will thicken as the beans heat through. In the end you get the perfect baked beans. Without any fuss.

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

Leftover Pulled Pork and More

This dish isn’t just great with hot dogs. Got leftover smoked pulled pork? Brisket? Just chop and add that instead. You can’t go wrong with this.

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

Hot Dog Baked Beans on the Char-Broil Big Easy
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5 from 1 vote

Hot Dog Baked Beans on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Great baked beans in a wonderful sauce.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword baked beans, Big Easy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
10 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 103kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your Big Easy.
  • Empty the cans of beans into a large bowl.
  • In a small bowl or glass, add the cornstarch and water and stir until dissolved.
  • Stir the mixture into the beans.
  • Add the remaining ingredients and stir.
  • Lightly spray the pan with non-stick spray.
  • Transfer the mixture to the pan. Place the pan into a Big Easy basket (or better, use a bunk bed basket for easier handling). Be careful handling the pan. Always support it from the bottom so that it doesn't buckle.
  • Bake the beans in the Big Easy for 90 minutes, stirring every 30 minutes. The mixture will thicken as it cooks.
  • Carefully remove the basket from the Big Easy. Let cool 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 103kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 374mg | Potassium: 93mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 115IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Velveeta Tex-Mex Rice

I was on a Velveeta kick. I was putting it on burgers. Hot dogs. Mac and cheese. Anything that called for cheese, I was gonna put Velveeta in it. But then I ran across this recipe for Velveeta Tex-Mex rice and I thought “Now THAT’S what I was looking for!”. Lots and lots of creamy cheesy Velveeta in a simple side dish that sounded amazing. And it was! This was perfect with our burgers and hot dogs. Despite its simplicity and short ingredient list, it is packed with flavor.

Velveeta Tex-Mex Rice

Make It A Main Dish

The original recipe for Velveeta Tex-Mex rice called for adding cooked chicken. I wanted a side dish so I left that out. However, this recipe makes a big batch of rice so I ended up with leftovers. And I figured, sure, why not serve this as the main dish? I didn’t have any chicken but I did have smoked sausage. So I grilled it (you could just fry it in a pan) to get a little color and sliced it into rounds. I reheated the rice (I had to add a bit more salsa to thin it a bit) and stirred in the sausage. Boom! A great main dish in minutes!

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

This recipe is also great using Mexican Velveeta instead!

Velveeta Tex-Mex Rice
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5 from 1 vote

Velveeta Tex-Mex Rice

Add smoked sausage or grilled chicken to make it a meal!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword cheese, rice
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 402kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Add beans, salsa and rice to a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
  • Heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes until warmed thoroughly.
  • Add the Velveeta and stir.
  • Reduce heat to low and cover.
  • Cook for 5 minutes or until Velveeta is melted, stirring occasionally.
  • Serve hot garnished with cilantro.

Notes

If the rice mixture gets too thick just add a bit more salsa and stir.

Nutrition

Calories: 402kcal | Carbohydrates: 75g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 12mg | Sodium: 667mg | Potassium: 493mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 434IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 216mg | 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)

Fritos Crunch Burgers

It was our anniversary. That required something special. Something big. What? Go out for dinner?!? Nope. Time to fire up my 25 year old grill that we bought when my wife and I were dating and make Fritos Crunch Burgers. What says “Happy Anniversary” like a big ole juicy, dripping, crunchy fantastic burger? Chips. A perfect beef patty. Chili. Cheese. Onion. All on a great toasted bun. Yep, this was an anniversary that we’ll both remember for sure!

Fritos Crunch Burgers

Just Do It

Don’t over-think these Fritos Crunch Burgers. They don’t need turkey chili. Or Ranch Fritos. Or some fancy fru-fru imported cheese. These aren’t those burgers. Save that stuff for another day, another burger. Make these and enjoy them. And smile. We did. Heck, we aren’t going to have them every day*. It was a special day that required a special burger.

And yes, you read that right. We bought a grill when we were dating. If you want to know if your marriage is going to last its when your wife-to-someday-be says ‘yes’ to a new grill when you’re still dating!

*Well, ok…. I might have made these two days in a row. I admit it.

Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set
Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set

Also try some taco smash burgers.

Fritos Crunch Burgers
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Fritos Crunch Burgers

One crazy-good burger!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword burgers, crunchy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 720kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill.
  • Divide the beef into 4 equally-sized portions and form into patties. Season well with salt and pepper.
  • Grill the burgers as desired.
  • The last minute of cooking add the cheese slices to melt slightly.
  • Meanwhile, toast the buns as desired.
  • Divide the corn chips between the bun bottoms. Top with the cooked patties.
  • Divide the chili between the burgers.
  • Add sliced onion.
  • Slather the inside of the bun tops with the Thousand Island and serve!

Notes

Serve with plenty of napkins!

Nutrition

Calories: 720kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 48g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g | Monounsaturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 106mg | Sodium: 814mg | Potassium: 457mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 237IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 241mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Whether it’s fresh corn season where you live (like it is here in Indiana) or not, you’ll love this honey butter skillet corn. It’s sweet. Creamy. The corn just ‘pops’ with flavor. This isn’t a difficult side dish to make but it sure is good. It’s just as great leftover too, so don’t hesitate to make an extra-big batch!

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Go Fresh. Go Grilled.

This honey butter skillet corn can be made with canned corn. Or frozen. But it’s best made with fresh corn on the cob. And better still if you grill or roast the corn on the cob first. I had my grill going to cook some wings, so I just tossed a few ears (4 to be exact) on the side of the grill and let them get nice and lightly charred and cooked through. I rotated them every 3-4 minutes, cooking for a total time between 15-20 minutes. You can also roast your ears of corn in a 450 F oven for 150-20 minutes. Just make sure you let the hot corn cool slightly before cutting off the kernels!

Use some hot honey to spice this dish up a bit!

2PCS Corn Planer Cutter Thresher Peeler, Corn Thresher Cob Stripper Tool,Premium Stainless Steel Corn Thresher Cob Remover tool with Ergonomic Handle
2PCS Corn Planer Cutter Thresher Peeler, Corn Thresher Cob Stripper Tool,Premium Stainless Steel Corn Thresher Cob Remover tool with Ergonomic Handle

Also try some slow-cooked jalapeno corn.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn
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5 from 1 vote

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Delicious, creamy corn that is hard to stop eating!
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword corn, skillet
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 130kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter if using unsalted, you'll want to add more salt than the amount below
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 16 ounces corn kernels. You can use frozen, canned (drained), roasted, or grilled. For fresh corn-on-the-cob you'll need 4 large ears.
  • 2 ounces cream cheese cut into small cubes
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon parsley chopped. for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • In a large skillet (preferably cast iron), melt the butter over medium-high heat.
  • Stir in honey.
  • Add the corn. Stir until warmed thoroughly. If you are using frozen corn, you want to make sure the corn is slightly tender. If you are using fresh, raw corn, you'll want to cook it longer until.
  • Add the cheese, salt and pepper.
  • Stir and keep stirring for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything gets creamy yummy.
  • Add the parsley (if using) and stir.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

This dish is great made with grilled corn!

Nutrition

Calories: 130kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 133mg | Potassium: 192mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 391IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Garlic Naan Pizzas using a Griddle

I love cooking outside on a griddle. Or inside on one. They’re very versatile and one of my favorite cooking ‘toys’. In the nicer months, you’ll find me out manning a griddle on a gas or charcoal grill. When it gets cooler, you’re likely to find me inside cooking on my countertop griddle. There’s just something fun about cooking on them. Like when I made garlic naan pizzas using a griddle.

Garlic Naan Pizzas using a Griddle

Learn As You Go

I found that I had a little bit of a learning curve when I made these garlic naan pizzas using a griddle on my outdoor griddle. It fits over a large gas grill and gets super hot. So my first pizza was a bit… crunchy shall we say. I learned my lesson. On that griddle I keep the heat a little lower and keep on eye on the bottom of the crust after about 4 minutes to make sure I don’t burn it.

Garlic Naan Pizzas using an Outdoor Griddle

Outdoors Or Indoors

My indoor griddle of choice is my Cusinart Griddler. I can easily fit two naan on it at once. It does take a bit longer to get the bottom of the naan crunchy like I like. But it can’t get any easier and I don’t have to heat up an oven to get a delicious dinner or lunch meal.

Garlic Naan Pizzas using an Indoor Griddle

Less Is More

You want your naan pizza crust to be crunchy. Or at least I do. So that means use as little wet ingredients as possible. Don’t go nuts brushing them with oil. And don’t use a lot of sauce. If your toppings are ‘wet’, pat them dry with a paper towel first before adding them.

Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set
Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set

Also try my copycat of Pizza Hut’s meaty marinara pasta!

Garlic Naan Pizzas using a Griddle
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5 from 1 vote

Garlic Naan Pizzas using a Griddle

Easy and delicious and ready in minutes!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword griddle, pizza
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 3kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 garlic naan
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or less, use as little as possible
  • Your favorite pizza sauce
  • Your favorite pizza toppings

Instructions

  • Turn on your griddle for medium high heat cooking.
  • Brush both sides of the naan lightly with the oil.
  • Place the naan on the griddle and toast for 1 minute per side. Remove to a wire rack.
  • Add the pizza sauce and swirl around with the back of a spoon. Less is more here. Use as little sauce as you can. The more you add the more your naan might end up soggy instead of crunchy.
  • Add cheese, if using. Make sure you get it edge-to-edge. All the way.
  • Add the remaining toppings. Like with the sauce my advice is to not go crazy with it. Less is more.
  • Return the naan to the griddle and toast 5-8 minutes. Check the bottoms every minute or so after 4 minutes to make sure they aren't getting too dark. If so, reduce the heat and/or move the naan to a cooler part of the griddle. You're not cooking anything here, just melting the cheese and getting the toppings hot so you don't have to toast them very long.
  • Remove from the griddle to the wire rack and let cool 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

I like to add a small sprinkling of pizza seasoning to make naans after adding the sauce for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 3kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.1g | Protein: 0.02g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 31mg | Potassium: 1mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.01g | Vitamin A: 8IU | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.01mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

OXO Good Grips Electric Grill and Panini Press Brush, Black
OXO Good Grips Electric Grill and Panini Press Brush, Black

Sweet Roasted Red Pepper Macaroni Salad

Oh man does this sweet roasted red pepper macaroni salad ever scream ‘summer’. I’m a mayonnaise kinda guy. And elbow macaroni and mayo were made for each other. Specially when you add in a few crunchy things like onion and celery to offset some of that delicious creaminess. This sweet roasted red pepper macaroni salad might remind you a bit of grandma’s classic. But with a few little twists. First, instead of the raw red bell pepper you might be used to I used tasty roasted pepper. It adds a bit of a sweetness and a more complex flavor than just a good ole bell pepper. Second, a little sugar adds a nice sweetness. This is not a tart salad. It’s creamy sweet, lightly crunchy, and delicious!

Sweet Roasted Red Pepper Macaroni Salad

Leave It Be

There’s nothing I’d change about this sweet roasted red pepper macaroni salad. I thought about it. I thought hey, I could use artificial sweetener instead of sugar. I could cut back on the mayonnaise. All sorts of things went thru my head. And none of them stuck. That’s good because this salad is great just as it is. I wouldn’t change a thing.

This recipe makes a pretty big batch. Plenty for a picnic or family get-together.

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 deviled egg pasta salad.

Sweet Roasted Red Pepper Macaroni Salad
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5 from 1 vote

Sweet Roasted Red Pepper Macaroni Salad

Creamy and delicious.
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Keyword pasta salad
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 460kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the salad

For the dressing

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to the box directions.
  • Rinse and drain well. Let cool.
  • In a large bowl whisk together the dressing ingredients.
  • Stir in the pasta and coat well.
  • Add the remaining salad ingredients and fold to combine.
  • Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
  • Stir before serving. You might have to add a bit more mayonnaise if the salad becomes too thick.

Notes

This is a fairly saucy salad, which I like. If you prefer yours with a little less sauce, place the pasta in a large bowl and prepare the dressing in a separate bowl. Slowly add the dressing to the pasta, stirring, until you get the consistency you are looking for. Reserve the remaining dressing because the salad tends to get thicker and drier after a day or two.

Nutrition

Calories: 460kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 17g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 536mg | Potassium: 175mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 226IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 35mg | 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)

Chex Mix using an Outdoor Griddle

Sure I’ve made Chex Mix in the oven. Quite a few times. And I’ve made quite a few variations on the classic, too. This was my first time making it on my outdoor griddle. And wow, was this ever a fantastic treat. Chex Mix using an Outdoor griddle is a bit different. And that difference is the wonderful crunchy caramelization you get on each and every little tasty morsel. Well, that and hey, it’s fun cooking outside on a griddle!

Chex Mix using an Outdoor Griddle

Big Griddle and Big Fun

This recipe for Chex Mix using an Outdoor griddle makes a pretty decent-sized batch. You’ll need a big griddle (30″ or more) to make the entire recipe at once. You can always divide it and do it in batches. If you go crazy stirring it (like I did) you might lose a few pieces over the side of the griddle, that’s ok. That’s just part of the fun.

Things move fast once you get this started on the hot griddle. You can’t be wandering off. You can’t be slackin’. Keep the mix moving. If you don’t, it’ll burn. And quick too. But it’s fun. You are the master of your Chex Mix. Add other things to it if you want. Take things out. Whatever you want to do. Just keep it moving.

Chex Mix using an Outdoor Griddle

Everyone Into The Pool

The original recipe for this mix required that it be cooked in three phases. The butter and seasoning were added at different times. I found this to be a little extra work and added to the stress of keeping the mix moving at all times! So I dissolved the seasoning into the butter. That way I just had to add it and stir. No add-butter-stir then add-seasoning-stir. Same end result, just a bit easier.

Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set
Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set

Also try my Everything Bagel seasoning Chex mix made on your griddle!

Chex Mix using a Griddle
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Chex Mix using an Outdoor Griddle

Fantastic flavor and crunch. Much better than an oven-baked mix!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Chex mix, griddle
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 440kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Chex Mix

For the wet mix

For the dry mix

For the 4-2-1 SPG Seasoning (Enhanced)

Instructions

For the SPG Seasoning (makes more than you need)

  • If you're making the homemade seasoning, just combine all the ingredients.
  • Store in an air-tight container until ready to use. If clumps form, just shake the container to knock them lose.

For the Chex Mix

  • Pre-heat your griddle over low heat. Make sure that it's clean. Depending on the size of your griddle, you might have to do make the mix in batches. The easiest way to do that is to halve the mix and butter mixture first.
  • In a large bowl, combine all of the Chex Mix ingredients.
  • Melt the butter in a small bowl or pot. This can be done directly on the griddle.
  • Stir in the Worcestershire sauce.
  • Combine the dry mix ingredients. Add to the butter mixture and stir to dissolve and combine.
  • Drizzle the butter mixture over the Chex mix and stir well to combine. Take your time, get it all well-coated.
  • Add the Chex Mix ingredients to the griddle. Immediately spread it out.
  • You want to toast the mixture for 2 minutes. Keep it moving constantly or it will brown. You want it to get a little color to it. A little char here and there is fine too.
  • Keep the mixture moving as you continue to toast it. You'll need 5-10 minutes to get it to the desired color and crispiness.
  • Immediately remove the mix to a large baking sheet (or two) and spread out to cool slightly.
  • Serve warm or cold. Store leftovers in an air-tight container.

Notes

Save the extra SPG seasoning and use it anywhere you want extra flavor. It’s great on hamburgers, wings, chicken, vegetables, you name it!
The amount of mix in this recipe will easily fill a 36″ griddle. Depending on the size of your griddle, you might have to do make the mix in batches. The easiest way to do that is to halve the Chex Mix and wet/dry mix ingredients and place into separate bowls.

Nutrition

Calories: 440kcal | Carbohydrates: 60g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 2567mg | Potassium: 271mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 380IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 122mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set
Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set