Author: Mike

Lemon Pepper Marinated Chicken 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.

Weber has a line of marinade mixes that you add juice to that are really, really good. They’re perfect for flavoring chicken like this lemon pepper marinated chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy. I picked up a package of each and used them to marinate my favorite, split chicken breasts. The Lemon Pepper marinade is mixed with lemon juice to produce wonderfully seasoned chicken. A little garlicky, a little herby and a little lemony, it’s a nice light refreshing marinade. You’ll love this Lemon Pepper Marinated Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy!

Lemon Pepper Marinated Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Keep An Eye On It!

Since it cooks at a high temperature you do have to watch that your lemon pepper marinated chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy doesn’t char. One way to help prevent that is to not use marinades containing substances that might burn, like sugar or honey. The other is to rinse the chicken before cooking. Now, you’re going to lose a bit of flavor doing that, but if like me you’re going to remove the skin before eating, it really doesn’t make that big of a difference. Lemon Pepper Marinated Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy is great either way!

Weber Marinades

Weber makes all sorts of great flavored Just Add Juice marinades. Check out my garlic and herb marinated chicken, and teriyaki chicken, also cooked on the Big Easy.

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

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

Lemon Pepper Marinaded Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy
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5 from 1 vote

Lemon Pepper Marinated Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Weber has a line of marinade mixes that you add juice to that are really, really good. They’re perfect for flavoring chicken like this lemon pepper marinated chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, chicken, marinated
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 271kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the chicken into a resealable bag or container.
  • Add marinade to taste.
  • Toss to coat.
  • Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, turning occasionally.
  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Transfer the chicken to the Big Easy basket.
  • Cook for approximately 20 minutes per pound or until it reaches 165 F as checked in several places.
  • Remove and let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Any cuts of chicken are great with this marinade.

Nutrition

Calories: 271kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 263mg | Potassium: 899mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 71IU | Vitamin C: 26mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This. Right. Here. Absolutely divine ‘fried’ chicken, hot off my charcoal grill. Yes, grill. Before I got a Vortex, I had no idea that not only could I make fried chicken on a grill, I could make it with almost no effort at all. No deep fryer, no mess.

This spicy buttermilk fried chicken using the Vortex is beyond tender and juicy. It has a wonderful spicy kick to it, but it’s not overwhelming. And the skin? Oh, crunchy and delicious. Perfection without the oil.

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Perfect Not-Fried Fried Chicken

There’s absolutely nothing I would change about this recipe for spicy buttermilk fried chicken using the Vortex. I enjoyed every single bite immensely. I think it’s the perfect fried chicken, and considering that I made it on my Weber grill without deep frying it, I just could not possibly be happier with it.

To make sure the skin crisps up good and that the chicken pieces cook evenly, do not over-crowd them on your grill. Also, I do not flip my chicken as it cooks. I put it on, close the lid, and don’t mess with the chicken for 45 minutes. Just let it do its thing.

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

I also make a crazy good spicy BBQ chicken using the Vortex. And Granny’s Secret fried chicken and my Korean fried chicken are amazing too!

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This. Right. Here. Absolutely divine ‘fried’ chicken, hot off my charcoal grill. Yes, grill.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 12 hours 45 minutes
Servings 10 pieces
Calories 565kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Queenslee Appetit

Equipment

Ingredients

For the buttermilk marinade

For the seasoning mix

For the chicken coating

For the egg wash

For cooking

Instructions

  • Combine the buttermilk marinade ingredients (except for the chicken) in a large resealable container.
  • Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
  • Combine all of the seasoning mix ingredients. Divide into two equally-sized batches.
  • Fire up your charcoal grill with the Vortex in the center. Make sure the lid and bottom air vents are open.
  • Whisk together the coating ingredients and place into a large resealable bag.
  • Whisk together the egg wash ingredients and place into a pie pan or large bowl.
  • Working in batches, remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off the excess.
  • Sprinkle with one half of the seasoning mix.
  • Transfer to the egg wash and coat well.
  • Shake off the excess and add to the baggie. Seal and shake to coat.
  • Arrange chicken around the edges of your grill (once the coals are hot and ashed over). Cover and cook for 45 minutes, rotating the lid every 15 minutes.
  • The last 5 minutes of cooking lightly brush the tops of the chicken with the oil to help crisp the skin even more.
  • Once chicken is done (165 F as measured in several places), remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

To cook 10-12 pieces of chicken at once you’ll need at least a 22″ charcoal grill

Nutrition

Calories: 565kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 165mg | Sodium: 4690mg | Potassium: 721mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 1313IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 371mg | Iron: 5mg

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

Copycat Jason’s Deli California Club Sandwich

Back in my high school days I worked in a no-name sub shop. I made some mighty darned good sandwiches if I do say so myself. But honestly, nothing I made was as good as this copycat Jason’s Deli California Club sandwich. First, we didn’t make sandwiches on croissants, which give the sandwich such a nice light buttery flavor. And I had no idea then what alfalfa sprouts were. Now I love them on a sandwich, along with guacamole. This sandwich would’ve been a big seller at the sub shop where I worked.

Copycat Jason's Deli California Club

Go Spicy

I used a spicy guacamole to offset some of the sweetness of the croissant in my copycat Jason’s Deli California club sandwich. You can use ‘normal’ guacamole instead, or try my copycat of Jimmy John’s avocado sandwich spread instead.

No Sprouts, No Worries

I also could not find alfalfa sprouts at any of the grocery stores near our house. None of them. In fact one doesn’t carry sprouts any more at all. Luckily I found some bean sprouts. They aren’t the same thing as alfalfa sprouts but they did add a similar texture.

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 Red Robin BLTA. And my copycat of the classic K-Mart submarine sandwiches.

Copycat Jason's Deli California Club
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Jason’s Deli California Club Sandwich

I used a spicy guacamole to offset some of the sweetness of the croissant in my copycat Jason’s Deli California club sandwich.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, sandwich
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 646kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 croissants halved horizontally
  • 1 pound deli turkey meat thinly sliced turkey sandwich meat
  • 1 sliced tomato
  • ½ cup alfalfa sprouts I substituted bean sprouts
  • ½ cup guacamole
  • 8 slices sweet onion
  • 4 strips bacon cooked crispy
  • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese

Instructions

  • Divide ingredients between the 4 rolls.

Notes

Also great served on sub rolls.

Nutrition

Calories: 646kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 41g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 1892mg | Potassium: 654mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 1010IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 185mg | Iron: 3mg

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)

Fiery Beef-n-Cheddar

Although I don’t eat fast food any more (or at least, it’s been years since I have), that doesn’t mean I don’t get a hankerin’ for it every now and then. Here lately I’ve been jonesin’ for a beef-n-cheddar sandwich from Arby’s, with a side of curly fries. But I wanted something a bit different than the great sandwich I can get at the fast-food chain. I wanted some kick. Some spice. And oh boy, did I get it! Presenting my Fiery Beef-n-Cheddar. Ooey gooey cheese with just the right amount of kick. Thin-sliced roast beef. And my version of Arby’s sauce, also with a punch of heat!

Fiery Beef-n-Cheddar

Spicy Satisfaction

My cravin’ for a fiery Beef-n-Cheddar was satisfied (for now)! As much as I love the classic, without any heat, I gotta have some spice now and then. More often than not, really. Life’s too short for boring food!

ARBY'S Arby's Famous Sandwich Sauce (Pack of 2), 16.0 Fl Oz
ARBY’S Arby’s Famous Sandwich Sauce (Pack of 2), 16.0 Fl Oz

Also try my copycat of Arby’s roast beef sandwich! I’ve also made spiral fries from scratch, which came out fantastic!

Fiery Beef-n-Cheddar
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5 from 1 vote

Fiery Beef-n-Cheddar

Presenting my Fiery Beef-n-Cheddar. Ooey gooey cheese with just the right amount of kick. Thin-sliced roast beef. And my version of Arby’s sauce, also with a punch of heat!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword roast beef, sandwich, spicy
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 877kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Oh Sweet Basil

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Fiery Beef-n-Cheddar sandwich

  • 4 onion buns
  • 1 pound roast beef thinly-sliced

For the Fiery Arby’s sauce

For the Fiery cheese sauce (you’ll have plenty leftover. It’s great for dipping curly fries!)

Instructions

For the Fiery Beef-n-Cheddar sandwich

  • Warm the buns in the oven.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the roast beef, cover, and turn heat to low.
  • Slather the buns with the fiery Arby's sauce.
  • Top with the roast beef and fiery cheese sauce.

For the Fiery Arby’s sauce

  • Combine all ingredients.

For the Fiery cheese sauce

  • Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add the shallot, garlic, and jalapeños and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the shallot is softened
  • Add the chipotles and evaporated milk, stir.
  • Whisk in the corn starch until dissolved.
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low, and add the cream cheese and mustard.
  • Stir until the cream cheese is melted.
  • Stir in the cheddar and reduce heat to low until cheese is melted.

Notes

Have your deli person slice the roast beef as thin as possible.

Nutrition

Calories: 877kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 58g | Fat: 53g | Saturated Fat: 31g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 217mg | Sodium: 3287mg | Potassium: 873mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 2075IU | Vitamin C: 74mg | Calcium: 1265mg | Iron: 5mg

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)

BBQ Shack Slaw

This BBQ Shack slaw reminds me of just that: the kind of great slaw you can get at just about any respectable BBQ joint across this country. Nothing fancy, but cool and fresh, the perfect side dish for a big ole pulled pork sandwich. Or, the perfect topping for any BBQ sandwich or grilled hot dog.

BBQ Shack Slaw

Make It Chunky. Or Don’t.

I chopped the slaw ingredients in my food processor, which can be a dangerous thing. I swear it has a big block V8 engine in it. In no time it’ll take a chunk of cabbage and turn it into sawdust. I have to be careful. I had actually intended for this BBQ shack slaw to be a lot more chunky than it came out, but it was still delicious.

Cuisinart DFP-14BCWNY Food Processor Custom, 14 Cup, White
Cuisinart DFP-14BCWNY Food Processor Custom, 14 Cup, White

Next time I’ll either chop the ingredients by hand or just buy a bag of pre-chopped slaw mix so I don’t have to be so careful with my food processor.

Also try my Delta slaw and my Arkansas slaw.

BBQ Shack Slaw
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5 from 1 vote

BBQ Shack Slaw

This BBQ Shack slaw reminds of me just that: the kind of great slaw you can get at just about any respectable BBQ joint across this country. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword cole slaw, coleslaw, slaw
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 198kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Working in batches, process the cabbage, carrots and onion in a food processor until the desired chop is achieved. Transfer to a large bowl.
  • In another bowl whisk together the vinegar, ketchup, sugar, hot sauce, salt and pepper until the sugar dissolves. Whisk in the oil and poppy seeds.
  • Pour dressing over the cabbage mix and toss to coat.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.
  • Stir and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

Great served on hot dogs too. On the side and on them!

Nutrition

Calories: 198kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Sodium: 317mg | Potassium: 263mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 4171IU | Vitamin C: 30mg | Calcium: 53mg | 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)

SpaghettiOs Deviled Eggs

Oh I know. You don’t even have to tell me. You’re thinking “What in the world are these? SpaghettiOs deviled eggs? Why!?!” Well, I don’t know why. No, they’re not really deviled eggs. But in their own way, they’re kind of cool. Hey, what kid wants to eat grandma’s boring deviled eggs? On the flip side, what kid wouldn’t want to eat eggs stuffed with SpaghettiOs? Seriously, they’re pretty darned good! Stop making that face!

SpaghettiOs Deviled Eggs

Go Crazy With It!

Once you warm to the idea of SpaghettiOs deviled eggs (and you will), you can mix up the stuffing. Try RavioliOs. Or SpaghettisOs with meatballs! And there are many themed cans you can try. Mix it up. You could easily make one of the most unique deviled eggs platters ever!

I use a little egg cooker when making boiled eggs. It cooks them perfectly every single time!

DASH Electric Rapid Egg Cooker for Hard Boiled/Poached/Scrambled Eggs or Omelets with Auto Shut-Off Feature, Black, 7 Egg Capacity
DASH Electric Rapid Egg Cooker for Hard Boiled/Poached/Scrambled Eggs or Omelets with Auto Shut-Off Feature, Black, 7 Egg Capacity

Also try my homemade SpaghettiOs.

SpaghettiOs Deviled Eggs
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5 from 1 vote

SpaghettiOs Deviled Eggs

 Hey, what kid wants to eat grandma’s boring deviled eggs? On the flip side, what kid wouldn’t want to eat eggs stuffed with SpaghettiOs?
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword deviled, eggs, pasta
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 210kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Remove the shells from the eggs. Cut in half and remove the yokes. Reserve for another use, such as a real deviled egg!
  • Spoon in the SpaghettiOs. You can warm them first if you wish.
  • Sprinkle with pepper (or your favorite seasoning or garnish) and serve.

Notes

Best served immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 186mg | Sodium: 73mg | Potassium: 152mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 270IU | Calcium: 36mg | 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)

Pickle Poppers 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.

Sure, you’ve made jalapeno poppers on your Char-Broil Big Easy. Quite a few times if you’re like me. And you loved them. But Aunt Martha didn’t like them one bit. “They’re too darned spicy”, she said. Well, today is Aunt Martha’s lucky today because now she can chow down on some super-tasty pickle poppers on the Char-Broil Big Easy without worrying about the heat. Plus they’re totally cool!

Pickle Poppers on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Easy. Different. And Delicious.

Make sure you read my notes in the recipe. They’ll make making these pickle poppers on the Char-Broil Big Easy a breeze. I really liked the change from the ‘usual’ jalapeno poppers. They’re hard to stop eating, so make sure you make a big batch. If you haven’t already, invest in a Bunk Bed Basket or two for your Big Easy. It gives you a lot more cooking space.

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

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

Pickle Poppers on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Pickle Poppers on the Char-Broil Big Easy

“They’re too darned spicy”, Aunt Martha said. Well, today is Aunt Martha’s lucky today because now she can chow down on some super-tasty pickle poppers without worrying about the heat.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, pickle poppers
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 12 poppers
Calories 111kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Old Dave’s Po-Farm

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 6 baby dill pickles
  • 6 slices bacon
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • ¾ cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • ½ clove garlic minced
  • Toothpicks
  • Your favorite seasoning

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F.
  • Meanwhile, slice the pickles in half horizontally.
  • Using a melon baller carefully scoop out the centers of the pickles. Set aside. NOTE: I found it much easier to just use my finger nail (with a food-safe glove on) to do this.
  • Line a baking sheet with foil.
  • Add bacon slices and bake for 20 minutes to partially cook the bacon.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Cut each piece of bacon in half lengthwise. NOTE: The easiest way to do this is to roll each piece up and then make a single cut down the middle.
  • Combine the cream cheese, cheddar, and garlic,
  • Working in batches, form about a tablespoon of the cheese mixture into a shape like a fat cigarette that will fit into the cavity of the pickles.
  • Working in batches, add shaped cheese to the pickle centers.
  • Secure one end of a piece of bacon to the end of the pickle slice by inserting a toothpick horizontally.
  • Wrap the bacon around the rest of the pickle, also securing the other end with a toothpick.
  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Lightly dust pickle poppers with your favorite seasoning and transfer to a Big Easy basket.
  • Cook in the Big Easy for 20 minutes or until the bacon starts to char and the cheese has melted.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

You’ll need a Bunk Bed basket for your Big Easy to cook more than 4 or so pickle halves at a time. Poppers can be assembled in advance to finish cooking on the Big Easy.

Nutrition

Calories: 111kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 431mg | Potassium: 72mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 261IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Cheetos Popcorn

Gone in 60 seconds. No, not the movie. This Cheetos popcorn snack. Like that, poof. Gone. Popcorn needed Cheetos. Cheetos needed popcorn. It’s a marriage made in heaven. Perfect for a big crowd, too. Just have some napkins on hand because there are going to be some orange fingers. And if you’re like me, you’re also going to have an orange keyboard and mouse.

Cheetos Popcorn

They Should Sell This In Stores

There are a lot of ways to customize this snack if that’s your thing. For your friends that like spicy foods I’d add a few good-sized pinches of cayenne pepper to the cheese powder mixture. And instead of ‘normal’ Cheetos I’d use the Flamin’ Hot flavored snacks.

You can substitute any popcorn you’d like, even pre-popped. Or microwaved. Even flavored will be fine, but you might have to cut back on the seasoned salt. You can always mix a small amount of Cheetos and popcorn in a bowl, season and see if you like the combination.

Cheetos Crunchy Pary size Bag, 15 Oz
Cheetos Crunchy Pary size Bag, 15 Oz

Also try my caramel crunchy Cheetos or my colorful Skittles popcorn!

Cheetos Popcorn
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4 from 1 vote

Cheetos Popcorn

Gone in 60 seconds. No, not the movie. This Cheetos popcorn snack. Like that, poof. Gone.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Cheetos, popcorn
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 347kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a popcorn maker and add the popping corn. Pop per package instructions.
  • Transfer popped corn to a large bowl. Sprinkle with seasoned salt and cheddar cheese powder. Stir gently to combine.
  • Fold in the Cheetos and serve.

Notes

Add peanuts, pecans, walnuts…. all of your favorites!

Nutrition

Calories: 347kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 438mg | Potassium: 741mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 63IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 56mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Slow Cooker Taco Meat

For years now I’ve been browning ground beef in my homemade taco seasoning to make tacos. On a whim I decided to make slow cooker taco meat. Boy, am I ever glad that I did. Hours in the slow cooker makes browned beef even better. Tender, juicy and tasty. Perfect for taco night!

Slow Cooker Taco Meat

Leaner Beef For Better Tacos

I used a very lean ground beef when I made this taco meat. You don’t want to deal with a bunch of fat floating around the top of your slow cooker. Ewwwww. No, use at least a 90/10 (that’s 90% meat, 10% fat) mix and crumble it well when frying it.

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

Any extra taco meat freezes very well so don’t be afraid to double the recipe if your slow cooker can handle it.

You’ll want to serve my delicious Mexican rice on the side.

Slow Cooker Taco Meat
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5 from 1 vote

Slow Cooker Taco Meat

On a whim I decided to make slow cooker taco meat. Boy, am I ever glad that I did. Hours in the slow cooker makes browned beef even better. Tender, juicy and tasty. Perfect for taco night!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword beef, crockpot, slow cooker, taco
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 110kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Prairie Homestead

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Crumble the ground beef into a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Cook until just about done.
  • Add the onion and stir. Cook until the beef is cooked through.
  • Transfer meat and onions and all remaining ingredients to a slow cooker.
  • Stir and cook on low 4-6 hours.

Notes

If the mixture gets too thick while cooking add in just a little water and stir.

Nutrition

Calories: 110kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 345mg | Potassium: 290mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 137IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Grilled Dijon Brussels Sprouts

“Mom, I want more Brussels sprouts, please!” That’s not something you would’ve heard me say as a kid. But now, put a bowl of these grilled Dijon Brussels sprouts in front of me and I’m asking for seconds. And thirds. Fantastic Dijon flavor and nicely charred sprouts, cooked until they are just tender. With just a hint of smokiness. Perfection!

Grilled Dijon Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts Need Dijon

These awesome grilled Dijon Brussels sprouts have quickly become our go-to side dish when grilling something for dinner. Preparation time is almost nothing. Cook time is darn near nothing. It couldn’t get any easier to make a delicious side dish. And it’s packed with that wonderful mustardy flavor.

I highly recommend that you use a basket when making this on a grill.

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

My regular-ole grilled Brussels sprouts are mighty good eating too! For a different take on Brussels sprouts, try pickling them instead!

Grilled Dijon Brussels Sprouts
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4 from 1 vote

Grilled Dijon Brussels Sprouts

“Mom, I want more Brussels sprouts, please!” That’s not something you would’ve heard me say as a kid. But now, put a bowl of these grilled Dijon Brussels sprouts in front of me and I’m asking for seconds. And thirds.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword Brussels sprouts, grilled, mustard
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 74kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill for direct cooking. You’ll want to use a grill vegetable basket.
  • Trim ends off of the sprouts and cut in half. Remove any bad leaves. 
  • Whisk together remaining ingredients in a large bowl.
  • Add the sprouts and toss gently to coat.
  • Let set for 5 minutes.
  • Transfer sprouts to a grill basket that has been sprayed with non-stick spray. Transfer to the grill and grill for 5-10 minutes, tossing occasionally, until lightly charred and just starting to soften. I use a long bamboo skewer to poke the sprouts as they cook so I can tell when they are done.
  • Remove from the grill and sprinkle with more salt and pepper as desired.

Notes

Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 74kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 433mg | Potassium: 481mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1084IU | Vitamin C: 97mg | Calcium: 65mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket