Author: Mike

Quick Fix Pickle Relish

I just made a big batch of my quick fix spicy pickles. Man, they are good! They’re perfect on burgers and hot dogs. But making them left me with a container full of dill pickle pieces. Ends, small pieces, little chunks. The parts that didn’t cut the mustard so to speak. The not-so-photogenic pieces that really didn’t need to be in my jar of pickles. So, what to do with those pickle scraps? Make quick fix pickle relish, of course! I not only loved this relish, I thought it was much better than the store-bought stuff.

Even though I used pickle ‘scraps’, this relish is so good that next time I’d be more than happy using actual dill pickles. I’m a pretty cheap guy, and no way would I waste those pickle trimmings. But who always has pickle trimmings?

Quick Fix Pickle Relish

Make The Spicy Version, Too

For a spicy version of this quick fix pickle relish, just add a few good pinches of dried red pepper flake. You’ll want to let the relish ‘get happy’ in the fridge for a few hours before using it so that it gets good and spicy. Stir every once-in-a-while to help speed things along. Don’t go crazy with the red pepper. Remember, you can always add more, but taking some out if you added too much is gonna be a challenge!

You’re Sweet

If you want a sweet version you can stir in some sugar or sweetener. Personally, I’m not a big fan of super-sweet pickle relish. But my wife is. So I make a slightly sweet version for her. I don’t go crazy with the sugar. It’s a relish, not desert, I figure. I still want that pickle pucker. I don’t want it hiding in an overly-sweet relish. Like with making the spicy version, you can add more sweet but you can’t take it out!

Vlasic Original Dill Whole Pickles, Keto Friendly...
Vlasic Original Dill Whole Pickles, Keto Friendly…
  • One 46 fl oz jar of Vlasic Original Dill Whole…
  • Perfectly crunchy original dill pickles made with…
Buy on Amazon

Also try my quick fix spicy pickles.

Quick Fix Pickle Relish
Print Pin
3.50 from 6 votes

Quick Fix Pickle Relish

For a spicy version of this quick fix pickle relish, just add a few good pinches of dried red pepper flake. You’ll want to let the relish ‘get happy’ in the fridge for a few hours before using it so that it gets good and spicy. 
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword pickles, relish
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1 cup
Calories 59kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Michael Chiarello

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients.
  • Refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 59kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1958mg | Potassium: 220mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 337IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 97mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Sale
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline...
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline…
  • Meal Prep MVP – A practical and innovative way to…
  • 12 Diverse Blades – With nine interchangeable…
$33.96
Buy on Amazon
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring...
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring…
  • Set includes: 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup and 1 cup
  • Magnetic handles keep Cups together for storage…
$22.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Macaroni and Cheese Pasta Salad

Maybe, like you, I at first made a face when I came across the idea for macaroni and cheese pasta salad. But I’m an open-minded kind of guy. So I pondered it some more. I thought, hey, I love mac-and-cheese. I love pasta salad. What I thought could be a crazy idea might well be beyond brilliant. I couldn’t just make the idea go away. It was stuck in my head. I had to follow it through. Was it as brilliant as I thought? Yeah, it was. Traditional pasta salad flavors with a bit of cheddar cheese. I often cube cheddar cheese into my pasta salads, so the idea of using boxed mac and cheese really isn’t that much of a stretch. And it’s sure easier. And it’s prettier too!

Macaroni and Cheese Pasta Salad

The Perfect Pasta Salad?

You can easily double this recipe for a family get-together. It travels really well. You can make it the day ahead. Before you leave the house, give it a stir and check if it’s too thick. The pasta likes to absorb the mayonnaise as time passes. You might want to add a bit and give it a gentle stir. Use a spatula and do it gently. Don’t go breaking the pasta into pieces by stirring like a person possessed.

Is It Hot In Here?

I honestly wouldn’t be afraid to add a minced jalapeno or two to this macaroni and cheese pasta salad for a little kick. I also like to substitute chipotle powder or smoked paprika for the black pepper for a little smokiness.

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 Regular Mayonnaise 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Regular Mayonnaise 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
  • Real Mayonnaise Made Like Homemade: Time-honored…
  • A History of Delicious: Our simple…
$6.60 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

If you want to make mac-and-cheese, but not out of the box, try my 20-minute version. Love pimento cheese? It’s great in pasta salad too!

Macaroni and Cheese Pasta Salad
Print Pin
5 from 2 votes

Macaroni and Cheese Pasta Salad

Maybe, like you, I at first made a face when I came across the idea for macaroni and cheese pasta salad. But then, I thought, hey, I love mac-and-cheese. I love pasta salad.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword macaroni and cheese, pasta salad
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 134kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Plain Chicken

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil.
  • Add the pasta from the macaroni and cheese and cook per package instructions.
  • Drain and rinse with cold water.
  • In a large bowl combine the cheese packages from the mac and cheese and all of the remaining ingredients.
  • Fold in the pasta.
  • Cover and refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
  • If the salad gets too thick add a bit more mayonnaise and stir lightly.

Notes

Stir again before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 134kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 231mg | Potassium: 77mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 167IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Sale
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline...
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline…
  • Meal Prep MVP – A practical and innovative way to…
  • 12 Diverse Blades – With nine interchangeable…
$33.96
Buy on Amazon
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring...
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring…
  • Set includes: 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup and 1 cup
  • Magnetic handles keep Cups together for storage…
$22.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Quick Fix Spicy Pickles

These quick fix spicy pickles absolutely hit the spot. I love dill pickles, and I love a little spiciness so it was easy to love these pickles. They aren’t overly sweet and they aren’t overly spicy. Though you can certainly make them spicier (or less) if you want. I found them to be just right. They are perfect for sharing with the neighbors without having worry that they’d be too hot for them.

Quick Fix Spicy Pickles

Save That Pickle Juice!

Whatever you do, do not discard the brine from the jarred pickles when you make a batch of quick fix spicy pickles. Save it for making Nashville hot chicken or for use as a brine for chicken wings. I always save my pickle juice. I also cut off the ends of the pickles. Since that left me with a bowl of pickle pieces, I decided to make a quick and easy pickle relish.

Vlasic Original Dill Whole Pickles, Keto Friendly...
Vlasic Original Dill Whole Pickles, Keto Friendly…
  • One 46 fl oz jar of Vlasic Original Dill Whole…
  • Perfectly crunchy original dill pickles made with…
Buy on Amazon

If you have watermelon rinds on hand, make a batch of my watermelon pickles. They’re crazy good too! My quick pickled jalapeno rings are also great.

Quick Fix Spicy Pickles
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Spicy Pickles

These quick fix spicy pickles absolutely hit the spot. I love dill pickles, and I love a little spiciness so it was easy to love these pickles. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword pickles, spicy
Prep Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 days
Total Time 3 days 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 196kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Cooking on the Ranch

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Drain the juice from the pickles, reserving it for other uses (as a brine for Nashville hot chicken or wings!).
  • Slice the pickles into 3/8″ pieces and transfer to a large bowl.
  • Add the remaining ingredients and stir.
  • Let the pickles set on the counter top for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Store pickles along with the accumulated sauce in jars for 3 days before consuming.

Notes

Best served chilled.

Nutrition

Calories: 196kcal | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 38mg | Potassium: 14mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 50g | Vitamin A: 76IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Sale
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline...
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline…
  • Meal Prep MVP – A practical and innovative way to…
  • 12 Diverse Blades – With nine interchangeable…
$33.96
Buy on Amazon
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring...
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring…
  • Set includes: 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup and 1 cup
  • Magnetic handles keep Cups together for storage…
$22.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Grilled Corn Grits

“My, oh, my” is about all we could say when we both took a bite of these grilled corn grits. The talking stopped and the enjoyment began. Creamy grits with fire-roasted corn. The corn adds just a hint of smokiness, a little crunchiness, and even more corn flavor to what are already fantastic corn grits. This is definitely a favorite side dish in our house. I used fresh corn-on-the-cob, scraping off the delicious kernels to make this delicious treat!

Grilled Corn Grits

That Great Roasted Flavor

You can roast the corn in the oven, under the broiler, if you’d like. You won’t get that nice grilled smoky flavor, but the roasted corn will still add a lot of flavor to the grits. I grilled my corn on a charcoal grill, directly over the hot coals. It didn’t take long and it was well worth the effort.

Use Canned Corn In A Pinch

If it’s not quite corn season where you are, you can use canned corn or frozen (thawed). Just drain the corn and spread it out on a baking sheet. Place under your broiler and broil until lightly charred, keeping an eye on it as it broils. For a smoky kick to your grits, try smoking the raw grits first.

Sale
2PCS Corn Planer Cutter Thresher Peeler, Corn...
2PCS Corn Planer Cutter Thresher Peeler, Corn…
  • Magic Corn Peeler – Get the fresh corn kernels in…
  • Corn Stripper Tool – It cuts the kernels quickly…
$9.99
Buy on Amazon

Also try my pimento cheese grits.

Grilled Corn Grits
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Grilled Corn Grits

“My, oh, my” is about all we could say when we both took a bite of these grilled corn grits. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, grits
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 195kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Deep South Dish

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill for direct cooking.
  • Place the corn directly over the fire.
  • Cook, rotating the ears frequently, until all sides are lightly charred.
  • Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before cutting the kernels from the ears.
  • Add the chicken stock and 3 tablespoons of butter to a medium sauce pan.
  • Bring to a boil and stir in the milk, salt and pepper.
  • Continue boiling while whisking in the grits.
  • Add the corn. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring continuously, until the grits are creamy. You may have to add more stock or half and half if they get too thick.
  • Serve topped with the remaining butter and garnished with the sliced green onion.

Notes

Add a little diced jalapeno for a nice kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 195kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Sodium: 126mg | Potassium: 192mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 406IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Sale
Weber® 3-Piece BBQ Tool Set, Stainless Steel...
Weber® 3-Piece BBQ Tool Set, Stainless Steel…
  • Set of 3 includes Spatula, Locking Tongs, and Cold…
  • Durable, stainless-steel construction holds up to…
$34.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon
Weber® Grill Grate Scrubber, Grill Cleaning...
Weber® Grill Grate Scrubber, Grill Cleaning…
  • Designed for heavy-duty grill cleaning
  • Contoured handle offers a firm, comfortable grip
$10.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon
Weber® Outdoor Grill Spray Cleaner & Degreaser...
Weber® Outdoor Grill Spray Cleaner & Degreaser…
  • This 16 oz spray bottle of Weber Grill Grate…
  • Gentle on Your Grates: Grill cleaner spray is…
$10.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Po Boy Bread from the Bread Machine

This is my go-to po boy bread dough recipe from the bread machine. No way am I enough of a baker to make a dough from scratch without a bread machine. I could never make something as good as this dough. It makes for the perfect po boy. The bread gets a nice crunchy, but thin, exterior. The insides are light, soft and airy.

I’ve made this po boy bread from a bread machine at least 30 times and every time it has come out great. Well, or it did after I got the hang of rolling it into a nice loaf shape. I also learned that cutting the slits isn’t just for making it pretty, the bread seems to keep a better shape.

Po Boy Bread from the Bread Machine

Those Pretty Slits

To get the slits just right you need to use a very, very sharp knife. You don’t want to manhandle the dough cutting it. You want the knife to go through it effortlessly.

Sale
OSIPOTO Bread Maker, 2LB Stainless Steel Bread...
OSIPOTO Bread Maker, 2LB Stainless Steel Bread…
  • 17-IN-1 VERSATILE BAKING MASTER : Transform your…
  • LARGE CAPACITY & 3 CRUST SHADES: Designed for…
$88.87
Buy on Amazon

Check out The Southern Po’ Boy Cookbook for ideas on how to use your po boy bread. I love making the ham and Swiss po boy from the cookbook, among others! (And you have to use this bread when making my Cajun Muffuletta poboys!)

Also try my bread machine Italian herb bread.

Po Boy Bread from the Bread Machine
Print Pin
5 from 3 votes

Po Boy Bread from the Bread Machine

This is my go-to po boy bread dough recipe from the bread machine. 
Course Bread
Cuisine American
Keyword bread, homemade, sandwich
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings 1 loaf
Calories 1485kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the glaze

  • 1 egg white
  • 1 teaspoon water

Instructions

  • Place ingredients into your bread machine in the order listed.
  • Process on the dough settings. After 5-10 minutes check the consistency of the dough. It should be sticky but not stick to the sides. If it is too dry add water, but in 1/2 teaspoon increments. If it is too wet add more flour 1 teaspoon at at time.
  • When the dough cycle is completed remove the dough to a lightly floured surface.
  • Roll the dough out into a rectangle that is approximately 16" x 12".
  • Roll up the dough along the long edge.
  • Pinch the seam and ends closed and place onto a lightly greased baking sheet, seam-side down.
  • Cover with a cheesecloth and place into a warm place to rise until doubled, about an hour.
  • After about 30 minutes of rising preheat your oven to 425 F.
  • Uncover the bread and, using a very sharp knife, make a few 1/2″ deep slits along the top of the dough, about 2″ apart.
  • Whisk together the glaze ingredients and brush over the top of the dough.
  • Bake for 20 minutes.
  • Reduce the temperature to 350 F and bake another 5-10 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Let cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

Use within a few days of baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 1485kcal | Carbohydrates: 283g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 3553mg | Potassium: 541mg | Fiber: 12g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 195IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 66mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Bambüsi Bread Slicer with Knife, Homemade...
Bambüsi Bread Slicer with Knife, Homemade…
  • SLICES EVERY LOAF EVEN, LIKE A BAKERY: This bread…
  • PICK YOUR THICKNESS, THIN MEDIUM OR THICK: Choose…
$29.99
Buy on Amazon

Cowboy Beans

Oh yeah, pardner! You’ll take to these cowboy beans like a horse takes to water! You’ll think you’re out on the prairie sitting by the chuck wagon after a long day of rustling steer. Pinto beans in a sauce of coffee and BBQ sauce, the smoky goodness of a ham shank, and plenty of your favorite toppings. These cowboy beans don’t have to be a side dish, they’re a meal by themselves. Heck, if I’d just spent a long day rustlin’ cattle, I’d sure want a big ole bole of these beans!

Cowboy Beans

Flavor-Packed Beans Like No Others

You won’t be learning anything while you’re eating these cowboy beans. Why is that? Well, because like the old cowboy saying goes, “you ain’t learning while your mouth’s a jawwin'”. Or something like that. You certainly won’t be telling a long tale about the calf you saved down by Dry Gulch. You’ll be too busy eating. You will be telling the chuck wagon cook that he’s a genius, though. It’s probably the same cook that came up with Cowboy pasta.

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...
Sweet Baby Ray’s Varierty Pack, 1 Original…
  • Includes 4 Signature Flavors: Original, Hickory…
  • Award-Winning Taste: Sweet Baby Ray’s Original…
Buy on Amazon

Also try my easy baked beans and smoked sausage and my delicious enchilada beans.

Cowboy Beans
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Cowboy Beans

Oh yeah, pardner! You’ll take to these cowboy beans like a horse takes to water! You’ll think you’re out on the prairie sitting by the chuck wagon after a long day of rustling steer. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword beans, southwestern
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 388kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the beans into a large pot or Dutch oven and cover with 1″ of water.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
  • Drain and reserve the beans.
  • Add the oil to the pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  • Add the onion and saute for 3 minutes, stirring, until just starting to soften.
  • Add the garlic and cook another 1 minute.
  • Add the beans back into the pot along with the ham shank, water, coffee and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Bring to a simmer and cover. Cook for 40 minutes or longer until the beans are just soft.
  • Stir in the BBQ sauce and cover again and continue to simmer until the meat falls away from the ham shank bone, about 2 hours.
  • Remove the shank and remove any meat. Chop and return the meat to the pot, stirring.
  • Serve hot with chopped roasted jalapenos, chopped red onion and shredded cheese.

Notes

Add a dollop of sour cream for a creamy cool twist.

Nutrition

Calories: 388kcal | Carbohydrates: 61g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 606mg | Potassium: 1057mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 121IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 98mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Lodge Silver 12 Inch Aluminum Foil Dutch Oven...
Lodge Silver 12 Inch Aluminum Foil Dutch Oven…
  • YOUR NEW GO-TO DUTCH OVEN LINERS: The Lodge Dutch…
  • WHAT’S COMPATIBILE? This dutch oven liner pairs…
$22.90 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon
IPROUDER Cast Iron Trivet 2 PCS Set, 8-inch, Meat...
IPROUDER Cast Iron Trivet 2 PCS Set, 8-inch, Meat…
  • Made of cast iron and seasoned with natural…
  • Raises meats, sourdough bread, pies, and other…
$29.99
Buy on Amazon

Pickled Black-Eyed Peas

I need a t-shirt that says “Don’t get between me and my pickled black-eyed peas”. I found them to be so dangerously good that I didn’t want to share with anyone. Ever. The peas absorb the vinegar, getting a really nice tart kick to them. For a little heat, jalapenos (they do get tamed down a bit the longer they pickle). Crispy red onions and a little garlic round out what is a perfect side dish.

Pickled Black-Eyed Peas

Cold Peas Are Perfect

These pickled black-eyed peas remind me of the Georgia caviar I made a while back. Black-eyed peas are wonderful in a cold salad and even better when pickled. Don’t let the jalapenos worry you if you aren’t into spicy foods. You can of course leave them out but I found that they do not overpower the salad at all. You don’t have to eat them, but leave them in to add flavor.

Pompeian Gourmet Red Wine Vinegar - 30 fl oz...
Pompeian Gourmet Red Wine Vinegar – 30 fl oz…
  • RED WINE VINEGAR: Expertly crafted by The Olive…
  • BOLD & FRUITY TASTE: Pompeian Red Wine Vinegar is…
$5.40 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon
Pompeian Gourmet White Wine Vinegar, Bright...
Pompeian Gourmet White Wine Vinegar, Bright…
  • WHITE WINE VINEGAR: Expertly crafted by The Olive…
  • CRISP & DRY TASTE: Pompeian White Wine Vinegar is…
Buy on Amazon

If you prefer your black-eyed peas cooked, try my slow cooker recipe.

Pickled Black-Eyed Peas
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Pickled Black-Eyed Peas

I need a t-shirt that says “Don’t get between me and my pickled black-eyed peas”. I found them to be so dangerously good that I didn’t want to share with anyone. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword peas, pickled
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 18kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Homesick Texan

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine the beans, onion, garlic and jalapeno in a large bowl.
  • In a separate bowl whisk together the oil and vinegar.
  • Add the oil mixture to the peas and stir to combine.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Note: If you find the peas to be too dry, now is the time to add a bit more oil.
  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Notes

Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 18kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 278mg | Potassium: 25mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 53IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Sale
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline...
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline…
  • Meal Prep MVP – A practical and innovative way to…
  • 12 Diverse Blades – With nine interchangeable…
$33.96
Buy on Amazon
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring...
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring…
  • Set includes: 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup and 1 cup
  • Magnetic handles keep Cups together for storage…
$22.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Fiery Smoked Chuck Roast

Chuck roast goes on sale here every so often and since I’m a huge fan of smoked chuck, I always rummage through the meat case and find some that has nice marbling and is the same thickness throughout and rush home to toss it on the smoker. One of my favorite dishes is this fiery smoked chuck roast.

Fiery Smoked Chuck Roast

Nice-n-Spicy

I’ve smoked Cajun chuck roast, Barbacoa-style, and just ‘plain’ ole chuck roast and all were fantastic. This time I decided to go the spicy route and marinate the roast overnight in Goya’s chipotle marinade. The beef took on a wonderful flavor that wasn’t overly spicy but still had a really nice kick. Perfect on a sandwich, and much cheaper than brisket.

Sale
Weber® Pecan Wood Chunks, Outdoor Cooking Fuel...
Weber® Pecan Wood Chunks, Outdoor Cooking Fuel…
  • Pecan wood chunks
  • Provides a rich & Sweet flavor
$10.98 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Smoked chuck roast looks and ‘acts’ pretty much like smoked brisket. It slices well if you prefer yours sliced. It chops well if you’re into that. And it pulls great too. I like mine pulled just like pulled pork BBQ. Mounded high on a bun I’m a very happy guy. Fiery smoked chuck roast makes me happy.

Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce, if you wish!

Fiery Smoked Chuck Roast
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Fiery Smoked Chuck Roast

The beef takes on a wonderful flavor that isn’t overly spicy but still has a really nice kick. Perfect on a sandwich, and much cheaper than brisket.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword beef, smoked, spicy
Prep Time 1 day
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 1 day 6 hours
Servings 10 servings
Calories 245kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Char-Griller

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the chuck roast into a resealable container or bag.
  • Add the marinade. Seal and toss to coat.
  • Refrigerate overnight.
  • Fire up your smoker for cooking at 250 F.
  • Shake off any excessive marinade and sprinkle the roast with the chipotle chili powder.
  • Smoke for two hours.
  • Transfer meat to a large piece of foil and seal tightly.
  • Return to the smoker and smoke another 4-5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 200 F.
  • Remove from the smoker and let rest 30 minutes before slicing or chopping.

Notes

Nutritional values do not include the Goya Mojo Chipotle Marinade.

Nutrition

Calories: 245kcal | Protein: 26g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 110mg | Potassium: 452mg | Vitamin A: 18IU | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for...
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for…
  • 【BILLOWING SMOKE AND BIG CAPACITY】 The pellet…
  • 【UNFORGETTABLE FLAVORS FOR HOT AND COLD…
$9.95
Buy on Amazon

French Bread Pizza Rustica

Don’t let the fact that this French bread pizza rustica doesn’t have a sauce on it throw you off. Every bite is incredible. All of your favorite toppings, but with a little twist. Spinach. Yes, spinach. You can play around with the toppings, substituting whatever suits your fancy, but don’t leave out the spinach. For years I wasn’t a big spinach fan. Now I am. Now I say things like “don’t leave out the spinach”.

French Bread Pizza Rustica

Go Crunchy. Go Soft.

I’ve found variations on this French bread pizza rustica online, and some have you cook the vegetables a bit before putting them onto the bread. I opted to skip that step. We found the slightly crunchy (they do cook a bit in the oven) vegetables to be perfect. If you do want to cook the vegetables, just add to the skillet after you cook the Italian sausage and saute for about 5 minutes.

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...
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline…
  • Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged…
  • Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese…
$28.97
Buy on Amazon

Also make my baked Italian sub pizza.

French Bread Pizza Rustica
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

French Bread Pizza Rustica

Don’t let the fact that this French bread pizza rustica doesn’t have a sauce on it throw you off. Every bite is incredible. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword French bread, pizza
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 949kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Rachael Ray

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 425 F.
  • Split the bread lengthwise. Optionally, hollow out the loaf by removing some of the bread. Love toppings? Hollow it out. Want less topping? Don’t hollow it out. (You might have topping left over).
  • Crumble sausage into a large skillet with the oil and cook until done.
  • Remove and let cool. Optionally, transfer sausage to a food processor and pulse a few times to make the meat finer.
  • Transfer meat to a large bowl.
  • Add the remaining ingredients and stir.
  • Spread mixture out onto the bread halves.
  • Place bread on baking sheets and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the bread is crunchy and the cheese starts to melt.

Notes

Place bread under the broiler to brown lightly if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 949kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 49g | Fat: 64g | Saturated Fat: 32g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 177mg | Sodium: 1623mg | Potassium: 493mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1463IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 875mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Sale
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline...
Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline…
  • Meal Prep MVP – A practical and innovative way to…
  • 12 Diverse Blades – With nine interchangeable…
$33.96
Buy on Amazon
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring...
OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring…
  • Set includes: 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup and 1 cup
  • Magnetic handles keep Cups together for storage…
$22.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Jimmy John’s Avocado Sandwich Spread (Copycat Recipe)

Sometimes you just need a little reminder to step outside of your box of usual sandwich spreads and use something you might not think of. This copycat recipe of the avocado sandwich spread from Jimmy John’s is essentially guacamole with a few twists thrown in. So, it’s really nothing fancy. Nothing to be afraid of, that’s for sure. It’s fantastic on a sandwich and for that matter, equally as great as a dip for tortilla chips. That’s why I doubled the recipe. Sandwiches and chips. Lunch is done.

Jimmy John's Avocado Sandwich Spread (Copycat Recipe)

A Little Heat Never Hurts

Every sandwich needs a little spiciness in my opinion. Which is why I was happy that this copycat recipe of Jimmy John’s avocado sandwich spread includes a jalapeno. Now, granted, it’s a small jalapeno so you’re not going to get overwhelming heat. But you don’t want that kick to be front-and-center. Just there, in the back. Noticed but not overwhelming. This spread is excellent on my copycat of Jason’s Deli California Club sandwich.

Nice-n-Creamy

Use your food processor (or blender) to get the spread to the consistency you want. You aren’t making chunky guacamole, so I would say keep going until it’s creamy smooth. It’s up to you. You do want it to be spreadable. Once it’s creamy you can’t go back and un-creamy it, so stop every few seconds or so and test it.

See Ya Tomorrow

Any leftover spread will keep in the fridge for a day. Or so. Cover it tightly. Place a piece of plastic wrap over the top of the spread to keep air from getting to it and discoloring it. If it does get a little brown on top you can scrape that off or stir it in. It won’t hurt anything but visually it’s not as appealing. For the best results of course, serve this the day you make it.

Sale
Cuisinart Food Processor 14-Cup Vegetable Chopper...
Cuisinart Food Processor 14-Cup Vegetable Chopper…
  • SUPERIOR FUNCTION: Cuisinart’s 720-watt motor…
  • MUST HAVE FEATURES: The 14-cup food processor has…
$229.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Also try my spicy avocado salad dressing.

Copycat Jimmy John's Avocado Sandwich Spread
Print Pin
4 from 5 votes

Jimmy John’s Avocado Sandwich Spread (Copycat Recipe)

This copycat of the avocado sandwich spread from Jimmy John’s is essentially guacamole with a few twists thrown in. 
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword avocado, sandwich, sauce
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 178kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 small jalapeno pepper seeded, chopped
  • 1 medium white onion chopped
  • 1 clove garlic chopped
  • 1 Roma tomato chopped
  • 2 medium avocados peeled, pitted, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • ¾ teaspoon Kosher salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon dry mustard

Instructions

  • Place the jalapeno, onion, garlic and tomato into a blender or food processor. Process until smooth.
  • Place avocado into a large bowl. Drizzle with the lime juice and smash with the back of a fork. Transfer to the blender.
  • Add the salt and mustard to the blender and pulse until the mixture reaches the desired thickness.
  • Slather on bread for sandwiches. If you do have any extra spread it makes for a great chip dip!

Notes

Stir well before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 178kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 445mg | Potassium: 581mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 316IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Secret Restaurant Recipes
Secret Restaurant Recipes
$13.98 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon
Sale
Secret Sauce: 200 Copycat Recipes to Re-Create...
Secret Sauce: 200 Copycat Recipes to Re-Create…
$15.69 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon
Sale
The Everything Restaurant Copycat Recipes...
The Everything Restaurant Copycat Recipes…
$15.08 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon