Category: Appetizers, Desserts & Snacks

Plank-Smoked Camembert

Disappeared. Like that. Plank-smoked Camembert is creamy, lightly smoky, and just incredibly delicious. Oh, and it has just a little kick. Don’t be afraid of it. That little heat offsets the sweetness perfectly. You won’t be able to get enough. I couldn’t. This is one of the best uses of a cedar plank ever!

Plank-Smoked Camembert

Try It Other Ways, Too

I could easily see making several variations on this plank-smoked Camembert for a party. You have to make this recipe as-is, for sure. Then maybe try a few different jellies. Try a few without jalapenos. Or try it with more jalapenos! Mix it up. They’re super easy to make, they look absolutely amazing, and they taste fantastic. You can put several on a single cedar plank, and make a cheese buffet!

Don’t buy any el cheapo cedar planks for this or any other dish. Get the good stuff and you won’t ever look back. Cheap planks split, warm and have splinters. Good planks are thicker, stay flat and have smoother edges.

Cedar Grilling Planks - 12 Pack
Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack

You’ll also love plank-smoked Twinkies and my cedar-planked Bloomin’ Onions. Cedar planks add a little something to just about anything you would normally grill on a grates, so don’t be afraid to cook on them instead!

Plank-Smoked Camembert
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5 from 1 vote

Plank-Smoked Camembert

Disappeared. Like that. Plank-smoked Camembert is creamy, lightly smoky, and just incredibly delicious. Oh, and it has just a little kick. Don’t be afraid of it. That little heat offsets the sweetness perfectly.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword cedar plank, cheese
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 114kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces Camembert cheese
  • 3 tablespoons jalapeno pepper jelly
  • 1 large jalapeno pepper sliced thin
  • Crackers for serving

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill for direct and indirect cooking.
  • Place the cedar plank over direct heat and grill until it is singed.
  • Flip and singe the other side.
  • Remove and let cool slightly.
  • Unwrap the cheese and place in the center of the plank.
  • Top with the jelly, spreading it out over the top.
  • Add the jalapeno slices.
  • Return the plank to the grill, this time over indirect heat.
  • Grill until the cheese is starting to melt, 8-10 minutes.
  • Remove the plank from the grill.
  • Serve with crackers.

Notes

The jalapenos are optional but they add great flavor along with just a little heat.

Nutrition

Calories: 114kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 318mg | Potassium: 76mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 335IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 147mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Cedar Grilling Planks - 12 Pack
Cedar Grilling Planks – 12 Pack

Spicy Green Chile Guacamole

I backed up the truck on some Hatch chiles this year. I ended up roasting almost all of them. They’re a really wonderful thing, and I’ve found myself using them in a lot of dishes. If I had more room I’d probably get two cases next year. One of my favorite things to make that uses roasted Hatch chiles is this spicy green chile guacamole.

Spicy Green Chile Guacamole

Different. Better.

The addition of chiles (and tomatillos) to guacamole really makes for something different. Tastier. A little thicker. And just slightly spicy. I’m not always a big fan of tomatillos, but I found that this guacamole called for just the right amount of them. I’ll be making this again and again.

I also found that this spicy green chile guacamole lasts longer than my usual guacamole recipe. I mean, lasts longer in the fridge. On the off chance that there’s leftovers, that is. It won’t last long once you serve it.

Zulay Kitchen Premium Garlic Press Set - Soft, Easy-Squeeze Ergonomic Handle with Silicone Garlic Peeler & Cleaning Brush - 3-Piece Garlic Mincer Tool - Sturdy Easy to Clean Garlic Crusher - Silver
Zulay Kitchen Premium Garlic Press Set – Soft, Easy-Squeeze Ergonomic Handle with Silicone Garlic Peeler & Cleaning Brush – 3-Piece Garlic Mincer Tool – Sturdy Easy to Clean Garlic Crusher – Silver

Also try my powdered gaucamole mix. It’s easy to make, using ingredients you already have in your pantry.

If you can’t find Hatch chiles locally, you can always order them online.

Spicy Green Chile Guacamole
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5 from 1 vote

Spicy Green Chile Guacamole

One of my favorite things to make that uses roasted Hatch chiles is this spicy green chile guacamole.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword guacamole
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 54kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Homesick Texan

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 green chiles roasted. Hatch or Anaheim, poblanos in a pinch, seeds and membranes removed
  • ½ pound tomatillos husked, roasted
  • 1 avocado pitted, flesh removed
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ½ cup cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • ¼ cup water
  • kosher salt to taste

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients into a blender or food process and process until smooth.
  • If the mixture is too thick add a bit more water and pulse a few times.

Notes

If you don’t have roasted chiles and tomatillos on hand, just toss fresh chiles and tomatillos on the grill (or under the broiler) until charred on all sides. Let cool slightly then remove the charred skins.

Nutrition

Calories: 54kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 40mg | Potassium: 207mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 137IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 7mg | 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)

Grilled Marinated Mushrooms

*poof* And just like that, all of the grilled (I used my trust Weber grill) marinated mushrooms I had just made disappeared. No, it’s not because I’ve changed my name to Houdini. It’s these fantastic mushrooms that did it. Each bite is a wonderful combination of meaty mushroom, salty soy sauce, a few spices and a nice balsamic vinegar kick. To cool all that down I served the mushrooms with a homemade blue cheese dressing for dipping. I didn’t do a whole lot of dipping, but I sure did a whole lot of eating.

Grilled Marinated Mushrooms

Epic Mushrooms

This is just one of many, many great recipe ideas I found in Brother Jimmy’s BBQ: More Than 100 Recipes. Heck, the book was worth it just for these grilled marinated mushrooms. They are a common sight (for the minutes that they last) around here. You can’t go wrong with these yummy morsels.

I always use a grill basket when I make these mushrooms or just about any other dish like it. It sure makes for easy cooking. I don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. A basket also makes for super-easy cleanup!

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

Also try my spicy grilled mushrooms.

Grilled Marinated Mushrooms
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5 from 1 vote

Grilled Marinated Mushrooms

*poof* And just like that, all of the grilled marinated mushrooms I had just made disappeared. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, marinade, mushroom
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 38kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Wipe the mushrooms clean.
  • In a large bowl combine the remaining ingredients except for the dressing.
  • Whisk until smooth.
  • Add the mushrooms to the marinade.
  • Toss gently to coat.
  • Let sit for 10 minutes, stirring one more time before using.
  • Fire up your grill for medium-high heat cooking.
  • Thread the mushrooms onto skewers or place in a grill basket. Reserve the marinade.
  • Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning once or twice.
  • Brush the mushrooms with the marinade while cooking.
  • Remove and serve.

Notes

I like to serve these with Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dunking.

Nutrition

Calories: 38kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 386mg | Potassium: 207mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 44IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush
Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush

Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream

Weak. I was just nothing but weak when I sat down in front of a bowl of this chocolate peanut butter ice cream. I should’ve stopped eating it long before I did, but I couldn’t. Packed with chocolatey flavor and peanut butter creaminess, this is seriously yummy ice cream. This is not diet ice cream, either. That’s probably why it’s sooooo good.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream

You Could Add Nuts. If You Wanted To.

I love nuts in ice cream, but I did not use crunchy peanut butter when I made this. If you’re tempted to add nuts, do it after you’ve made the ice cream. Just fold it in. Roasted peanuts or chopped pecans are best.

I use my old trusty ice cream maker. It’s not fru-fru fancy, and it doesn’t have a bunch of buttons and flashing lights, but it’s a real workhorse. It doesn’t make a huge batch of ice cream at once, but I’ve found it perfect for the two of us and it would be fine for 4 people too. Probably 8 normal people, but this ice cream is so good it’s hard to be ‘normal’ around it and eat just a small scoop.

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Sorbet, Frozen Yogurt Maker, Double Insulated, White, ICE-21P1
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Sorbet, Frozen Yogurt Maker, Double Insulated, White, ICE-21P1

Also try my butter pecan ice cream and my homemade strawberry ice cream!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream
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5 from 1 vote

Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream

Weak. I was just nothing but weak when I sat down in front of a bowl of this chocolate peanut butter ice cream.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword chocolate, homemade ice cream, peanut butter
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings 3 cups
Calories 608kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Whisk together the half and half, cocoa powder, sugar and salt in a large sauce pan
  • Heat over medium-high until boiling and starting to foam.
  • Remove from heat. Whisk in the peanut butter until blended and smooth.
  • Chill in fridge for at least 1 hour then process in your ice cream maker.

Notes

This ice cream isn’t light. Nor is it meant to be! Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 608kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 41g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 265mg | Potassium: 599mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 38g | Vitamin A: 571IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 197mg | 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)

Smoked Sausage with Sriracha Mustard Sauce

I just wrapped up a smoke session on my Weber Smokey Mountain, and since the fire was still burning hot, I decided to toss a few fresh sausages onto the smoker. While they were cooking I stirred up a very quick, but definitely spicy, mustard dipping sauce that is loaded with Sriracha goodness. Smoked sausage with Sriracha mustard sauce…. you know it was yummy.

Smoked Sausage with Sriracha Mustard Sauce

Mix It Up A Bit

I used Italian sausage, bratwurst and andouille sausages when I made smoked sausage with Sriracha mustard sauce. My wife’s favorite were the Italian sausages. They had a nice spicy taste to them. My favorite? Andouille, of course. I could eat andouille all day. The spicier the better and andouille always packs that nice little kick that I really enjoy.

The Sauce Is Great

The Sriracha mustard sauce definitely isn’t just for dipping sausages. It’s great on sandwiches, subs, hot dogs, and hamburgers. It is creamy smooth, with a real kick to it thanks to the Sriracha and smoked jalapenos (chipotles), which also add a bit of smoky flavor. I think you could definitely use this same sauce for dipping chicken nuggets or chicken tenders. It’s different than those usual dipping sauces that are, frankly, boring!

Kitchen Bottle Condiment Set 3 Hole Dispenser Lid Plastic Squeeze for Sauce Mustard Ketchup 12 oz. / 340 ML.
Kitchen Bottle Condiment Set 3 Hole Dispenser Lid Plastic Squeeze for Sauce Mustard Ketchup 12 oz. / 340 ML.

Also try making my delicious beef summer sausage.

Smoked Sausage with Sriracha Mustard Sauce
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5 from 1 vote

Smoked Sausage with Sriracha Mustard Sauce

Smoked sausage with Sriracha mustard sauce…. you know it was yummy.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword mustard, sausage, smoked
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours
Servings 4
Calories 563kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 sausages kielbasa, etc
  • Sriracha mustard sauce from below

For the Sriracha mustard sauce

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for cooking at 225-250 F.
  • Add your favorite wood (I used cherry).
  • Add the meats once the smoker is ready and cook until the internal temperatures reach 155 F. Start testing a single sausage after 1 hour (no need in poking them all and letting all of the juicy goodness drain out). Cooking time should be 1-2 hours total.
  • Remove from smoker and cover in foil until ready to use.
  • Serve with Sriracha mustard sauce, for dipping.

For the Sriracha mustard sauce

  • Whisk together all ingredients.

Notes

Use a combination of sausages for a better experience.

Nutrition

Calories: 563kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 55g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 79mg | Sodium: 1610mg | Potassium: 278mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 264IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

Butter Pecan Ice Cream

When I picked up a big ole back of fresh-roasted pecans at the Jack and Jill Nut Shop in downtown Nashville, Indiana, I knew exactly where they’d end up: in my butter pecan ice cream. Well, minus the many nuts I ate between the store and home, that is. Roasted pecans and creamy, delicious homemade ice cream is a dangerous combination so make a much bigger batch than you think you’ll need.

Butter Pecan Ice Cream

Ice Cream Magic

I’ve made other ice cream recipes that I’ve found on the internet. Ones that don’t use cream, or steer towards lighter ingredients. And I’ve made them and they were ok. Just ok. This right here is the real deal. You want light you shouldn’t read on. This is the kind of ice cream you enjoy and love. If you need to, go for a walk after eating a bowl. But trust me, while you’re on that walk you’ll be thinking about this butter pecan ice cream.

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Sorbet, Frozen Yogurt Maker, Double Insulated, White, ICE-21P1
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Sorbet, Frozen Yogurt Maker, Double Insulated, White, ICE-21P1

Also try my chocolate peanut butter ice cream.

Butter Pecan Ice Cream
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5 from 1 vote

Butter Pecan Ice Cream

Roasted pecans and creamy, delicious homemade ice cream is a dangerous combination so make a much bigger batch than you think you’ll need.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword butter, homemade ice cream, pecans
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 16 servings
Calories 137kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Note: The day before making the ice cream place the maker bowl in your freezer to get it completely frozen.
  • Place the pecans and butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Stirring constantly, cook until the nuts are just browned. Remove from heat.
  • Place the eggs into a large bowl and whisk.
  • In a small saucepan combine the brown sugar and half-and-half. Stir and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat.
  • Gradually pour mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly.
  • Pour mixture back into the saucepan over medium heat. Stirring often, cook until the mixture thickens, coating the back of a spoon.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream, vanilla and toasted pecans.
  • Let cool slightly then pour into your ice cream maker and process according to the maker’s instructions.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat half-and-half and cream.

Nutrition

Calories: 137kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 24mg | Potassium: 70mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 242IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 45mg | 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)

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)

Hot Dog Burnt Ends

If you’ve never made or tried burnt ends, I highly recommend them. As great as smoked brisket is, burnt ends are brisket candy. Highly addicting, they are a real treat. But hey, they do take time and brisket isn’t always the cheapest cut. So what to do if you want to feed a crowd of some meat candy without breaking the bank? Yep, you guessed it: hot dog burnt ends. Smoked hot dogs covered in a caramelized sauce, you’ll never eat those little sausage thingies again. Perfect for a party, these goodies will disappear in no time.

Hot Dog Burnt Ends

Easy But With A Big Reward

There’s absolutely nothing challenging about making these hot dog burnt ends. If you don’t have a smoker (I love my Weber smoker!) you can make the entire dish on a grill. You can even use a gas grill. If you do, I recommend you use a smoky BBQ sauce to add a little of that great I-made-these-on-a-smoker even-though-I-didn’t flavor.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb

SPAM makes for great burnt ends too!

Hot Dog Burnt Ends
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5 from 1 vote

Hot Dog Burnt Ends

Smoked hot dogs covered in a caramelized sauce, you’ll never eat those little sausage thingies again. Perfect for a party, these goodies will disappear in no time.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword hot dogs, smoked
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 166kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Hey Grill Hey

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for 225 F. Use any wood you like, these turn out great whether they are smoked over fruit wood or a stronger wood such as mesquite.
  • Squeeze the mustard over the dogs then brush around all sides. (I found it easier to just spread the mustard with my hands).
  • Sprinkle the rub over all sides of the dogs.
  • Transfer to your smoker and smoke for 1 hour.
  • Meanwhile, fire up your grill for medium heat cooking (or pre-heat your oven to 375 F).
  • Remove dogs and cut into thirds (about 1 1/2" pieces).
  • Transfer to a disposable pan.
  • Combine the butter, brown sugar and BBQ sauce and pour over the hot dogs.
  • Stir and place on your grill (or in the oven).
  • Cook dogs an addition 30-45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the hot dogs have begun to caramelize.
  • Remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve with warmed BBQ sauce for dipping, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 166kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 28mg | Sodium: 422mg | Potassium: 94mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 109IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

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
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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)