Author: Mike

Country Breakfast Tots

I may have a slight obsession with the show Carnival Eats on the Cooking Channel. Noah Cappe, the host, has the dream job of traveling around sampling yummy and different fair foods. Like these Country Breakfast Tots he discovered at the Tot Spot food truck at the Georgia National Fair. I made them as soon as I saw them on the King Crab and I episode. Just tater tots, bacon, sausage gravy and fried eggs. Well, not “just”. This is the breakfast dreams are made of.

Country Breakfast Tots

Start The Day Out Right

Country breakfast tots isn’t your light-and-fru-fru breakfast item. Obviously. This is the kind of dish I craved back in my younger years working on a dairy farm. I needed food and lots of it because each day had me working hard. Come to think of it, I haven’t worked that hard since. Farming ain’t easy.

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

Also try my Biscuits + Groovy food truck-inspired Donna Summer, a crazy good breakfast dish!

Country Breakfast Tots
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Country Breakfast Tots

Just tater tots, bacon, sausage gravy and fried eggs. Well, not “just”. This is the breakfast dreams are made of.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Keyword breakfast, tater tots
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 1051kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8 slices bacon
  • 4 cups frozen tater tots heated per package instructions
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 pound breakfast sausage
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk or more
  • kosher salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions sliced, for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the bacon in a large skillet. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate. Crumble or chop.
  • Working in batches (I assume your skillet can cook 4 eggs at a time. If not, cook only 2-3 at a time), crack an egg into the hot skillet. Let it cook for 30 seconds or until the edges are set. Add another egg and also wait 30 seconds. Continue the same process with 2 more eggs. Slightly tilt the pan and spoon the hot oil over the top of the eggs for another minute. Remove the cooked eggs once each has cooked for a total of 3 minutes. Cook the remaining 4 eggs in the same manner. 
  • Crumble the sausage into the same skillet and cook until done, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.
  • Add the butter to the skillet and melt. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute.
  • Slowly whisk in the milk until warmed. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Serve by dividing the tater tots between 4 plates. Top with the bacon, sausage gravy and eggs. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve.

Notes

Add a little minced jalapeno for a great morning kick!

Nutrition

Calories: 1051kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 79g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 514mg | Sodium: 1744mg | Potassium: 991mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1117IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 196mg | 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)

Chet’s Trucker Stew

I don’t know Chet. I don’t even know if Chet really is a trucker. But I do know that Chet’s Trucker stew is amazing. It’s like if you took a bunch of different great dishes and combined them all in a slow cooker, let it go for about 8 hours and then Boom! It’s sorta like chili. And It’s sorta like BBQ beans. It’s sorta like a bean soup. Every bite is packed with so many different flavors. You would never think they’d go together by looking at the ingredients, but they do!

Chets Trucker Stew

It’ll Warm You To The Bone

Chet’s Trucker stew is the perfect cold day dish. You aren’t going away hungry, that’s for sure. Whether you’re a long haul trucker or hunkered down at home on a snowy day, it’s a great easy way to make a big bowl of happiness. And it’s easy as heck to make in a slow cooker. Or a Dutch oven for that matter.

Try Smoked Sausage, Too!

Next time I make this stew (soon!) I may mix it up a bit by using smoked sausage instead of the breakfast sausage and beef. But I’d keep the beans the same, because I felt the combination really made this dish rock.

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

Also try my slow cooker Cincinnati chili.

Chet's Trucker Stew
Print Pin
4 from 2 votes

Chet’s Trucker Stew

I don’t know Chet. I don’t even know if Chet is a trucker. But I do know that Chet’s Trucker stew is amazing. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword beef, stew
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 365kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker.
  • Cook on high 3-4 hours or low 7-8 hours, stirring occasionally.

Notes

Best served with cornbread.

Nutrition

Calories: 365kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 560mg | Potassium: 343mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 27g | Vitamin A: 158IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 35mg | 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

Southern Bologna Burgers

My wife got me hooked on thick-cut bologna burgers and sandwiches. They are like the grown-up versions of the bologna sandwiches I had as a kid. I get the deli to cut chub bologna 1/2″ thick and then either fry, grill, or smoke it. Then I slather the bologna with Ross’ Pool Room sauce and serve it on buns topped with onion and pimento cheese. Yeah, that’s a Southern bologna burger right there!

Southern Bologna Burgers

Keep It Simple

Any pimento cheese will work on these southern bologna burgers. I didn’t go crazy making one of my more complicated versions. Simple is just fine. For a bit of a kick substitute pepper jack cheese for the Colby or add a minced seeded jalapeno pepper.

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)

I highly recommend that you shred or grate your own cheese at home. Don’t buy the pre-shredded or pre-grated stuff. It has stuff added to it to keep it from sticking together. That ‘stuff’ affects how the cheese melts. Get the real stuff.

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

You can make these delicious burgers with Ross’ Pool Room bologna sauce or my hot bologna sauce.

Southern Bologna Burgers
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Southern Bologna Burgers

I slather the bologna with Ross’ Pool Room sauce and serve it on buns topped with onion and pimento cheese. Yeah, that’s a Southern bologna burger right there!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword bologna, sandwich
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 640kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the burgers

For the pimento cheese topping

Instructions

For the burgers

  • Make a 1" cut in the bologna from an edge towards the center.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat or fire up a grill for direct cooking.
  • Fry or grill the bologna, brushing with the sauce as it cooks. You want to get a light char on the bologna.
  • Toast the buns if desired.
  • Assemble the burgers by placing the bologna on the bun bottoms. Add the pimento cheese and bun top and serve.

For the pimento cheese topping

  • Combine all ingredients.

Notes

Serve any leftover cheese mix on crackers or celery sticks.

Nutrition

Calories: 640kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 49g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 1036mg | Potassium: 218mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 660IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 530mg | 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)

Parmesan Chicken Bites

My wife mentioned these Parmesan chicken bites the other day. I made them a long time ago and posted them on our old blog, Crossroads of America, and somehow had forgotten about them. That’s a shame because they’re really great. They aren’t nuggets like you might think. And they aren’t crunchy because they aren’t fried. They have a light coating, with a great herb-and-butter flavor. They are very addictive. Bite after bite, you’ll find yourself unable to stop eating them. The flavors are amazing. So make a double batch. You’ll be glad that you did.

Parmesan Chicken Bites

Flavor-Packed Nuggets Of Happiness

I continued the herb theme and served these Parmesan chicken bites with a cool Ranch dressing for dipping. A Dijon dipping sauce also works great, as does blue cheese dressing. These little yummy morsels are a great alternative to deep-fried chicken nuggets. They are a bit more difficult to pick up with your fingers, so be prepared to serve them with small appetizer forks.

I highly recommend that you shred or grate your own cheese at home. Don’t buy the pre-shredded or pre-grated stuff. It has stuff added to it to keep it from sticking together. That ‘stuff’ affects how the cheese melts. Shred it yourself and use the good stuff.

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

Want ’em crunchy? Try my homemade chicken nuggets.

Parmesan Chicken Bites
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Parmesan Chicken Bites

These aren’t nuggets like you might think. And they aren’t crunchy because they aren’t fried. They have a light coating, with a great herb-and-butter flavor. They are very addicting.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword chicken nuggets, Parmesan
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 173kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breast halves boneless skinless, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup bread crumbs
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • Your favorite dipping sauce

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 F. Line two baking sheets with aluminum foil.
  • Combine the breadcrumbs, cheese, salt, thyme and basil and spread out in a pie plate.
  • Working in batches, dip the chicken pieces into the melted butter and shake off the excess. Roll in the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Place chicken on foil and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the thickest pieces are cooked.
  • Serve with your favorite chicken nugget dipping sauce.

Notes

Best when served immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 173kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 51mg | Sodium: 425mg | Potassium: 128mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 393IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 60mg | 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)

Lowcountry Smothered Pork Chops

Smothered? Ok, so maybe I drowned them. But that’s ok, because these lowcountry smothered pork chops were divine. The chops were oh so tender. The sauce was oh so savory. And the topping? My favorite part, oddly enough. The key is to load up each forkful of pork with tons and tons of the peppers and onions then get ya some sauce. The perfect bite.

Lowcountry Smothered Pork Chops

Want A Twist? You Got It.

For a slight Cajun twist on this dish, season the chops with Cajun seasoning instead of the salt, pepper and cayenne. And add a few splashes of Louisiana hot sauce in when you add the chicken broth.

Lowcountry smothered pork chops are best served with some fried okra and collard greens.

I like to use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make these pork chops and pretty much darned near anything like it on my stovetop. It’s nice and big and sturdy. That extra weight helps it maintain and distribute heat perfectly. As an added bonus, it’s actually pretty easy to clean up too!

Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Round Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue

Also try my homemade chipotle Shake’n Bake pork chops.

Lowcountry Smothered Pork Chops
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Lowcountry Smothered Pork Chops

Smothered? Ok, so maybe I drowned them. But that’s ok, because these lowcountry smothered pork chops were divine.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword pork chops
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 285kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Paula Deen

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine the salt, black pepper and cayenne, to taste.
  • Season the chops liberally with the mixture.
  • Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Spread the flour out onto a plate.
  • Coat the chops in the flour, shaking off the excess, then transfer to the skillet.
  • Brown the chops on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.
  • Remove to a plate.
  • Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet and saute for 5 minutes or until just starting to soften.
  • Add the garlic and saute for another minute.
  • Add the broth and Worcestershire sauce and stir.
  • Add the chops back to the skillet, spooning the cooked vegetables on top.
  • Cover, reduce heat to a simmer, and simmer for 45 minutes or until the chops are very tender.

Notes

Serve topped with the peppers and onions.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 91mg | Sodium: 514mg | Potassium: 812mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 242IU | Vitamin C: 61mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red
Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red

Buttermilk-Marinated Turkey 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.

“Crazy good” are the first words that came to mind when I first tasted this buttermilk-marinated turkey on the Char-Broil Big Easy. It was very, very tender and juicy and absolutely packed with flavor. Delicious. Every bite. I’ve cooked a lot of turkey on my Big Easy. I have to say I’ll probably never do breasts any other way. Sure I may mix up the seasonings I add, but the underlying recipe of marinating the breast for a few hours in buttermilk and lemon will stay the same – they are what make the meat so tender and juicy.

Buttermilk-Marinated Turkey on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Cooking…

I cooked a 10 pound breast in almost exactly 100 minutes. It needed a little more time thanks to a cool light breeze. On a perfect day with perfect conditions 10 minutes per pound would’ve been all I would’ve needed. This buttermilk-marinated turkey on the Char-Broil Big Easy was amazing.

So easy…

Does it get any easier than that? I left the lid off my Big Easy for the first 30 minutes then added it to get more color on top. I probably could’ve used an extra 10 minutes with the lid on just to get the color a bit more even but hey, it was fantastic anyway!

Big bird…

The next question is: Can I use the same technique for cooking a whole turkey? I don’t see why not! As long as it’ll fit in a large turkey bag (I used a small one for just the bone-in breast) I suspect that this approach will be perfect for any bird. Just do not marinate for over eight hours. The lemon juice will start to break down the meat. Eight hours max is the rule you want to go by.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver
Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver

Also try my easy large turkey and my beer n’ butter turkey on the Char-Broil Big Easy

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!

Buttermilk-Marinated Turkey on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
3 from 2 votes

Buttermilk-Marinated Turkey on the Char-Broil Big Easy

“Crazy good” are the first words that came to mind when I first tasted this buttermilk-marinated turkey. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, marinade, turkey
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 10 hours
Servings 1 turkey breast
Calories 1443kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine buttermilk, garlic, lemon, rosemary, salt and pepper in a large bowl.
  • Place turkey in a large resealable container or baggie.
  • Pour in the buttermilk mixture. Seal the container and place in refrigerator for 8 hours, turning the breast every hour so that each side gets some time in the marinade.
  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Remove the turkey breast from the marinade, which you will discard.
  • Pat the breast dry and rub a small amount of olive oil all over the turkey. Transfer to the Big Easy basket
  • Transfer basket to the Big Easy and cook until the breast measures 165 F as tested in several locations. Use 10 minutes per pound as your starting point. My turkey, a 10 pounder, took 110 minutes.
  • Remove the basket from the Big Easy. Let cool slightly before removing the breast to a cutting board. Let rest another 15 minutes before carving.

Notes

Always use caution when removing your turkey from the basket.

Nutrition

Calories: 1443kcal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 201g | Fat: 45g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 525mg | Sodium: 16559mg | Potassium: 3444mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 49g | Vitamin A: 1771IU | Vitamin C: 63mg | Calcium: 1287mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Quick Fix Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Sandwich

I love cooking meals from scratch. But sometimes reality hits and I have to throw something together that doesn’t require a lot of preparation or ingredients. That’s where this quick fix copycat of McDonald’s chicken sandwich comes in. In less than 30 minutes I get to enjoy a rather tasty chicken sandwich. Heck it even has fresh toppings on it and a rather delicious(but incredibly simple) sauce. Hey, it’s not bad when you’re in a crunch, and I often find myself making little changes to mix things up a bit.

Quick Fix Copycat McDonald's Chicken Sandwich

Make It Spicy

Add a little kick to your quick fix copycat McDonald’s chicken sandwich by substituting Tyson’s spicy chicken patties, adding a slice of pepper jack cheese, and adding Sriracha instead of onion powder when making the sauce. You can make these somewhat chicken wing-like by adding Buffalo wing sauce to the buns.

We are not making 5 star sandwiches here, but that’s no reason for them not being tasty. Nothing fancy, just good.

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 of McDonald’s addicting French fries.

Quick Fix Copycat McDonald's Chicken Sandwich
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Sandwich

I love cooking meals from scratch. But sometimes reality hits and I have to throw something together that doesn’t require a lot of preparation. That’s where this quick fix copycat of McDonald’s chicken sandwich comes in. In less than 30 minutes I get to enjoy a rather tasty chicken sandwich.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chicken sandwiches
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 331kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the McChicken sauce

Instructions

  • Heat the chicken per package instructions.
  • Meanwhile, make the sauce by whisking together the ingredients.
  • Toast the buns if desired. Slather both bun halves with the sauce.
  • Add the heated chicken patties, lettuce and tomato (and onion if using) and serve.

Notes

Nutritional values do not include the chicken patties.

Nutrition

Calories: 331kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 12mg | Sodium: 405mg | Potassium: 270mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 2616IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 98mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)

Oven Baked Ribs

I usually smoke my ribs, but there are times when I’m more than happy to cook them in other ways. Usually, that means on the Char-Broil Big Easy. Once, heck, I even made them in the slow cooker! Gasp! This time I figured I’d try oven baked ribs, which really isn’t much different than using the Big Easy.

I ended up with tender, juicy ribs that tasted absolutely great. Of course, they do not have that smoky flavor I’d get on the smoker, cooked for 6 hours. But, I make up for that a bit by adding smoky ingredients. Like smoked paprika. And I used a smoky (hickory in this case) BBQ sauce at the end.

Oven Baked Ribs

Adding Smoke Flavor

Although I did not include it in the recipe below, I’d consider adding a drop of liquid smoke to the foil before sealing the ribs. There’s already a good bit of great smokiness added by the smoked paprika. I wouldn’t go crazy with the liquid smoke. A few drops at most. If you aren’t a fan of liquid smoke but want more smoky flavor, substitute smoked sea salt for the Kosher salt.

I used back ribs, though when I smoke ribs I almost always use spare ribs trimmed St. Louis-style. I wouldn’t use spare ribs in this recipe because I’d be afraid that the additional fat in them would almost end up ‘boiling’ the ribs in the foil.

If I’m reaching for a bottled BBQ sauce, I often go for Sweet Baby Ray’s.

Sweet Baby Ray's Varierty Pack, 1 Original Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Hickory and Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Sweet N Spicy Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Honey Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, 1CT
Sweet Baby Ray’s Varierty Pack, 1 Original Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Hickory and Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Sweet N Spicy Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Honey Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, 1CT

Also try my oven-baked hot dogs. Hankerin’ for more ribs? Make some slow cooker Vietnamese ribs.

Oven Baked Ribs
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Oven Baked Ribs

Fantastic ribs that don't need a smoker or grill to be cooked to perfection.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword baked, ribs
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings 2 racks
Calories 1549kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Butter Your Biscuit

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
  • Place ribs onto two large pieces of foil.
  • Combine the remaining ingredients except for the sauce.
  • Sprinkle the rub mixture over the ribs on all sides. Depending on the size of your ribs you may not end up needing all of the rub.
  • Seal the foil tightly, transfer to a large baking sheet and place in the oven.
  • Bake for 2 1/2 hours.
  • Carefully open the foil. There will be lots of hot liquid accumulated in the bottom of the foil packets!
  • Remove the ribs from the foil (they might be quite tender, so support them from underneath using large turners or flat wooden paddles and transfer to the baking sheets.
  • Brush with plenty of sauce and place ribs under the broiler for about 5 minutes or until the sauce has set.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve with more sauce for dipping if desired.

Notes

I like to use a smoky sauce to give the illusion of smoked or grilled ribs.

Nutrition

Calories: 1549kcal | Carbohydrates: 67g | Protein: 111g | Fat: 95g | Saturated Fat: 33g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 391mg | Sodium: 1751mg | Potassium: 1870mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 55g | Vitamin A: 5616IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 290mg | Iron: 9mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Copycat Bubba Gump’s Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp

My wife and I have had the joy of eating at several Bubba Gump Shrimp Company restaurants. We always end up ordering something shrimp-y. Hey, ‘shrimp’ is in their name! When we can’t make it a restaurant and get the real deal we make copycat versions at home. Like this copycat Bubba Gump’s Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp. Crazy good coconut-crusted deep-fried shrimp with a fantastic Cajun marmalade sauce. Serve it as an appetizer or devour a batch for dinner. Either way, this is good shrimp!

Copycat Bubba Gumps Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp

Shrimp Cook Fast. Really Fast.

Keep an eye on your copycat Bubba Gump’s Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp while they fry. Shrimp cook very, very quickly. Coconut can burn very, very quickly. Once you see golden brown colors, flip them and don’t cook them much longer.

To help prevent the coconut from turning too brown too quickly I did use unsweetened coconut. The sugars in sweetened coconut will burn quicker. You won’t notice a difference in the taste of the shrimp, so go with unsweetened.

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

I highly recommend that you double the recipe for the sauce. It’s crazy good. I’d use it for any shrimp, any time, any where. Doesn’t have to be coconut shrimp, either.

Also try my Bubba Gump Tangy Honey Shrimp.

Copycat Bubba Gump's Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Bubba Gump’s Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp

When we can’t make it a restaurant and get the real deal we make copycat versions at home. Like this copycat Bubba Gump’s Dumb Luck Coconut Shrimp. Crazy good coconut-crusted deep-fried shrimp with a fantastic Cajun marmalade sauce.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword coconut, copycat, deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 808kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the shrimp

For the sauce

Instructions

For the shrimp

  • Heat oil to 350 F. Meanwhile, rinse the shrimp and pat dry.
  • In a shallow bowl or pie plate whisk together the Bisquick and beer.
  • In another shallow bowl or pie plate, whisk together the flour, seasoning salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Place the coconut in a third shallow bowl. 
  • Working in batches, dip the shrimp into the wet batter. Then roll in the flour mixture. Lastly, roll in the coconut, pressing down slightly so that the coconut adheres.
  • Fry the shrimp for 1 minute. Flip and fry another minute, until golden brown. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.

For the dipping sauce

  • Combine all ingredients. Note: I’m a dipping sauce lover, so I did end up doubling the amount of dipping sauce.

Notes

You’ll want to double the sauce recipe!

Nutrition

Calories: 808kcal | Carbohydrates: 82g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 29g | Cholesterol: 287mg | Sodium: 1790mg | Potassium: 492mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 33g | Vitamin A: 377IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 280mg | Iron: 6mg

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)

Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

When I moved to the mid-west from the east coast I heard about this thing called ‘Cincinnati chili’. My reaction to the idea of spaghetti and chili was one of shock. Cinnamon? What? Is that an accident? That was all before I tried it. I’ve learned to be less judgmental about new foods since then, and Cincinnati chili is one reason why. I love it. Slow cooker Cincinnati chili is perfect, and not just on cold mid-west winter days either.

Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

Get Your Chili Fix

Making Cincinnati chili in a slow cooker is easy and tasty and I’d make it again and again. Now, if I happen to be in Cincinnati, I’m heading to The Chili Hut, my hands-down favorite food truck.

I’ve been lucky enough to have the chili from the Chili Hut several times, from the parking lot at Jungle Jim’s in Fairfield Ohio to the huge food truck rally in West Chester Ohio. You can have your chili as many ways as you want from the Chili Hut. The chili is perfectly seasoned and has the best texture. It’s beyond yummy!

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

Also try my grilled Cincinnati hot dog. For a hearty slow-cooker dish, make a batch of Chet’s Trucker Stew.

Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili
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5 from 1 vote

Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

Making Cincinnati chili in a slow cooker is easy and tasty and I’d make it again and again. 
Course Mainer
Cuisine American
Keyword chili, crockpot, slow cooker
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 241kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chili

For serving

  • Classic: Serve chili hot.
  • 2-way: Serve chili over hot cooked spaghetti.
  • 3-way: Serve chili 2-ways topped with shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4-way: Serve chili 3-ways topped with chopped white onion.
  • 5-way: Serve chili 4-ways topped with warmed kidney beans.

Instructions

For the chili

  • Crumble the beef into a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the onion and celery and cook until the meat is done.
  • Drain off any excess fat and pour the meat mixture into your slow cooker.
  • In a large bowl, combine the remaining chili ingredients then pour over the meat.
  • Stir, cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
  • Serve as desired.

Notes

This chili freezes well for thawing and reheating later. I like to keep chili on hand for hot dogs, too!

Nutrition

Calories: 241kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 246mg | Potassium: 359mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 769IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 3mg

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