Category: Appetizers, Desserts & Snacks

Waffle Iron Chocolate Chip Cookies

My sweet tooth was calling my name. At first it was telling me to make brownies on the waffle iron again, which were a real crowd pleaser. I resisted, so the voice and I compromised on chocolate chip cookies made on the waffle iron. Quick, easy, and yep, they taste just like chocolate chip cookies…. because they are. They are decidedly different and fun to eat. Would I make them every day? Nah, probably not but I sure would like to! Oh, and topped with ice cream?!!

Waffle Iron Chocolate Chip Cookies

Tricky Sticky

I found getting the cookies off the hot waffle iron to be challenging. I found a solution to the problem, though. I turn off the iron and let them cool completely. I can then slide a knife beneath them and they come right off. The waffle iron chocolate chip cookies get nice and crunchy after cooling. Perfect for dunking. Perfect for topping with ice cream. Or just whipped cream for that matter.

Cuisinart WMR-CAP2 Round Classic Waffle Maker, Brushed Stainless,Silver
Cuisinart WMR-CAP2 Round Classic Waffle Maker, Brushed Stainless,Silver

Also try my waffle iron eggs and biscuits.

Waffle Iron Chocolate Chip Cookies
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4 from 1 vote

Waffle Iron Chocolate Chip Cookies

Quick, easy, and yep, they taste just like chocolate chip cookies…. because they are.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword cookies, waffles
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 24 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Servings 6 large cookies
Calories 226kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 package cookie dough I used a Nestle’s Tollhouse bar, but you can also use dough in a tube

Instructions

  • Preheat your waffle iron and spray with non-stick spray.
  • I put 4 pieces of dough onto my small iron at once. I let them touch so that when I closed the iron it would form one large cooking. You can do it however you like. One at a time, two at a time, whatever works for you.
  • Close the lid and let cook 3-6 minutes or until starting to get dark.
  • Turn off the iron and let cool 5 minutes before carefully removing the cookie.
  • Let cool completely. The cookie will get crunchier as it cools.
  • Continue cooking by turning your iron back on and reheating it before adding more dough.

Notes

Total cook time shown is for 6 large cookies, each made from 4 sections of dough. You can make more, or less.

Nutrition

Calories: 226kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 151mg | Potassium: 76mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 19g | Vitamin A: 19IU | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

KPKitchen Pancake Batter Dispenser - Kitchen Must Have Tool for Perfect Pancakes, Cupcake, Waffle, Muffin Mix, Cake & Crepe - Easy Pour Baking Supplies for Griddle - Pancake Maker with Measuring Label
KPKitchen Pancake Batter Dispenser – Kitchen Must Have Tool for Perfect Pancakes, Cupcake, Waffle, Muffin Mix, Cake & Crepe – Easy Pour Baking Supplies for Griddle – Pancake Maker with Measuring Label

Cauliflower Nachos

Who needs all the carbs you find in traditional nachos? Well, here’s the solution if you’re watching your carbohydrates. Perfectly roasted cauliflower topped with your favorite nacho toppings, such as cheese, guacamole, and salsa! Heck, you don’t even have to be counting carbs to enjoy these cauliflower nachos. And you might not even miss the traditional layer of crispy tortilla chips. If you’re really hankering for the ‘real’ thing, I’d suggest using as many toppings as possible to ‘hide’ the fact that the chips are no longer there.

Cauliflower Nachos

Low Carb And Tasty. Say What?

These remind me of another low-carb version of a dish: mashed cauliflower. Just like the potato version, but without the carbs. We make them often and always enjoy folk’s reaction when we tell them they aren’t eating mashed potatoes.

Pico de gallo is another great thing to put on nachos. Ditto black olives.

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

For other delicious low-carb snacks, make some Buffalo cauliflower bites and cauliflower popcorn.

Cauliflower Nachos
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Cauliflower Nachos

Who needs all the carbs you find in traditional nachos? We’ll, here’s the solution if you’re watching your carbohydrates. Perfectly roasted cauliflower topped with your favorite nacho toppings.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword cauliflower, nachos
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8
Calories 78kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
  • Place cauliflower pieces in a large bowl.
  • Add the oil and toss gently to coat.
  • Add the salt, cumin, paprika, chili powder and garlic powder. Toss to coat.
  • Pour cauliflower out on a large baking sheet and spread out evenly.
  • Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until the cauliflower is golden in color and the edges have started to crisp.
  • Sprinkle with the cauliflower with the cheeses and return to the oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
  • Serve topped with salsa, guacamole and jalapeños.

Notes

Add a little pepper jack for a nice kick!

Nutrition

Calories: 78kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 442mg | Potassium: 234mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 167IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 123mg | 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)

Skittles Popcorn

We had a sort-of-good turnout this year at Halloween. Trick-or-treaters came in waves, but not big waves like we had last year. That means we were left with a big ole bowl (actually, three bowls) of leftover Halloween candy. I’m a big fan of Skittles candies, so we had lots of Skittles… so I made Skittles popcorn! Fun to make, the popcorn tastes a bit like caramel corn, but with the sweetness cranked up a few notches. Tangerine, lemon, berry, grape and pear flavors exploded everywhere!

Skittles Popcorn

A Big Bowl Of Colorful Sweetness!

Skittles popcorn is mighty darned tasty (and sweet). It doesn’t get super-duper crunchy like caramel corn but it’s still a great treat. And it doesn’t take a whole lot of Skittles candies to make a whole lot of popcorn, either. You’ll want to make extra because this stuff is great!

West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Machine Electric Hot Oil Popper Includes Large Lid for Serving Bowl and Convenient Nesting Storage, 6-Quart, Red
West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Machine Electric Hot Oil Popper Includes Large Lid for Serving Bowl and Convenient Nesting Storage, 6-Quart, Red

Some of the colors get a bit thin as they melt, so don’t be afraid to have a few drops of food coloring on hand to bump up the colors.

Also try my red velvet popcorn.

Skittles Popcorn
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Skittles Popcorn

Make a single batch each of your favorite color, then combine for the full rainbow effect!
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword popcorn
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 31 minutes
Servings 4 cups
Calories 737kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

The recipe makes a single batch of your favorite color. Make several batches, using a different color of Skittles for each one. Then combine for the full rainbow effect!

  • Pop your corn according to package instructions. Place in a bowl and set aside.
  • Rip a sheet of waxed paper (about 8" – 10' long) and place on your counter.
  • Melt butter and brown sugar on the stove on medium heat. Stir frequently to avoid scorching.
  • Pour in the Skittles candies. Stir until melted (you might need to mash them down to help them dissolve). Add food coloring if you desire more color.
  • Once done melting pour the hot candy mixture over the top of the popcorn.
  • Use a spatula and fold in the mixture throughout the popcorn until will covered.
  • Dump the popcorn onto the waxed paper and spread thinly to allow to cool.
  • If you wish to make popcorn balls, allow mixture to cool for 3 – 4 minutes (or until you can touch it). Then, spray cooking spray or butter your hands and form the popcorn into balls shapes. Set aside.
  • Allow all to fully set (around 15 – 20 minutes)
  • Store in airtight containers for about a week

Notes

Nutritional values do not include the Skittles.

Nutrition

Calories: 737kcal | Carbohydrates: 150g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 49mg | Potassium: 524mg | Fiber: 21g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 47IU | Calcium: 64mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Kernel Season's Popcorn Seasoning Mini Jars Variety Pack, 0.9 Ounce (Pack of 8)
Kernel Season’s Popcorn Seasoning Mini Jars Variety Pack, 0.9 Ounce (Pack of 8)

Cheddar Walnuts

I’m usually a pecan kind of guy, but these cheddar walnuts made a walnut believer out of me with just one nut. Great buttery texture with a sharp cheddar coating, these nuts disappear in no time. I made the nuts two ways: a nice mellow cheddar version, and a spicy fiery cheddar version. My wife took these walnuts to work, and I can tell you I definitely didn’t make enough. They were loved by all!

Cheddar Walnuts

Go Nuts With It

There’s no reason you couldn’t use the same approach I used to make cheddar walnuts on other nuts. Pecans or peanuts are great. Just keep in mind, smaller nuts will roast quicker, so you might want to cut back on the baking time.

I like spicy foods, so I wouldn’t be afraid to double the hot and spicy ingredients. Nothing wrong with a super-duper double-spicy version. But I would put up a little sign by them if I was serving them to a crowd. No point in hurting someone!

Cheddar Cheese Powder by Hoosier Hill Farm, 1 lb
Cheddar Cheese Powder by Hoosier Hill Farm, 1 lb

This recipe was inspired by a recipe from California Walnuts.

Cheddar Walnuts
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5 from 1 vote

Cheddar Walnuts

There’s no reason you couldn’t use the same approach I used to make cheddar walnuts on other nuts, such as pecans or peanuts. Just keep in mind, smaller nuts will roast quicker, so you might want to cut back on the baking time.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword cheese, nuts
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 cups
Calories 849kcal
Author Based on a recipe from California Walnuts

Equipment

Ingredients

For the dry ingredients

For the wet ingredients

For the nuts

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 F.
  • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

For the dry ingredients

  • Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl.

For the wet ingredients

  • Whisk together all ingredients in a large bowl.

For the nuts

  • Add the walnuts to the wet ingredients and stir until well coated.
  • While still stirring, slowly pour in the dry ingredients, coating the nuts completely.
  • Pour the walnuts out onto the parchment paper, spreading out evenly.
  • Bake for 6 minutes, then stir and bake another 6-8 minutes or until lightly browned.

Notes

You can also make these recipe using pecans.

Nutrition

Calories: 849kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 84g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Sodium: 57mg | Potassium: 565mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 585IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 119mg | 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)

Scorpion Tails

I’ve made ‘normal’ jalapeno poppers on my grill, smoker and using my Char-Broil Big Easy many, many times. These scorpion tails are like jalapeno poppers, but they’re a bit more fru-fru shall we say. Instead of cream cheese I used velvety smooth Havarti cheese. Havarti is one of the favorite cheeses in our household, often found on our sandwich wraps and grilled cheese sandwiches. Instead of smoky bacon I used prosciutto. You still get that same wonderful pepper flavor, and a little kick, and pork yummy-ness. Just a bit more special, and definitely something different to amaze and wow your guests!

Scorpion Tails

Go Light With Any Seasoning

I often dust my jalapeno poppers with my favorite rub before cooking them, but I decided to skip doing that with these scorpion tails. I didn’t want anything to mask the flavors of the cheese and prosciutto. You can certainly add some rub or seasoning if you wish. But if it was me, I’d skip it or keep it very light.

I recommend that you use a grill basket when making this dish. It makes cooking easier and you don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. And cleanup is easier too!

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

For a totally different take on jalapeno poppers, try some okra poppers. Yeah, okra.

Scorpion Tails
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4 from 1 vote

Scorpion Tails

These scorpion tails are like jalapeno poppers, but they’re a bit more fru-fru shall we say. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, jalapeno
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 18 bites
Calories 84kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

  • 9 jalapenos halved, membranes and seeds removed
  • 9 ounces jalapeno Havarti cheese softened
  • 18 slices prosciutto

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for smoking at 250 F. Use a medium wood such as hickory.
  • Fill the jalapeno halves with the cream cheese. I've found that I can spread the cheese in with a knife if it has softened enough. If not, just cut the cheese into thin slices and then fill the peppers.
  • Wrap each pepper in a slice of prosciutto.
  • Smoke for 20-30 minutes or until softened.

Notes

You can substitute cream cheese for the spicy cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 84kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 160mg | Potassium: 43mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 191IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 87mg | 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

Cedar Planked Twinkies

Grilled Twinkies are a great thing. Cedar planked Twinkies are a wonderful thing. Just a light hint of cedar takes a simple dessert to a new place. You can top them with whatever you have on hand. For me that meant Nutella (a good thing no matter what, but also good to keep your other toppings from falling off of the Twinkies), ooey-gooey marshmallows, crunchy toffee and of course, whipped cream.

Cedar Planked Twinkies

Load ‘Em Up!

Ice cream, toasted nuts, cherries, anything you can find while be good on cedar planked Twinkies. Just don’t leave the Twinkies on the grill too long or the cedar flavor might get too strong. You want that hint of cedar to kind of be lurking in the background and not jumping right out at you. You can also skip the cedar plank and grill the Twinkies directly on your grill.

Cooking on cedar planks can really change the ordinary into something special, which is why I do it often. For an appetizer, you’ll love my plank-smoked Camembert.

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

For something truly special you’ll want to make my red white and blue cedar planked Brie.

Cedar Planked Twinkies
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Cedar Planked Twinkies

Grilled Twinkies are a great thing. Cedar planked Twinkies are a wonderful thing. Just a light hint of cedar takes a simple dessert to a new place. 
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword cedar plank, dessert
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 814kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Soak plank in water for 1 hour.
  • Fire up a grill for indirect 300 F grilling.
  • Place Twinkies on the plank.
  • Slather tops with the Nutella.
  • Sprinkle with the marshmallows and toffee.
  • Place on the grill and grill for 15 minutes or until the marshmallows have started to melt.
  • Serve topped with whipped cream and whatever other toppings you enjoy.

Notes

Roast some peanuts on the grill. Shell them and sprinkle them over the finished Twinkies for a great crunchy treat!

Nutrition

Calories: 814kcal | Carbohydrates: 99g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 43g | Saturated Fat: 38g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 96mg | Potassium: 474mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 87g | Vitamin A: 344IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 132mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

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Sno-Cone Syrup

Yes, I do have a machine that shaves ice. I mean, why wouldn’t I? Everyone loves sno-cones. I used to buy big bottles of sno-cone syrup at the store (due to occasional laziness) and finally asked myself how hard could it really be to make some at home? The answer? It’s not hard at all and the homemade sno-cone syrup flavors are so much more bold. I keep a few different ones on hand in squeeze bottles, ready to make delicious sno-cones at a moment’s notice.

Sno-Cone Syrup

Summer Fun

Here’s the ice shaver that I use. It’s small, fairly cheap, and has held up for years. Just add a few ice cubes and turn it on and it starts shooting out perfectly shaved ice in an instant. This is what makes summer fun! And it brings back a lot of childhood memories too!

Hawaiian Shaved Ice Kid-Friendly S700 Classic Snow Cone and Shaved Ice Machine with Instruction Manual, Tip Card, and 1-year Manufacturer’s Warranty, 120V, White
Hawaiian Shaved Ice Kid-Friendly S700 Classic Snow Cone and Shaved Ice Machine with Instruction Manual, Tip Card, and 1-year Manufacturer’s Warranty, 120V, White

Also try my cherry limeade.

Sno-Cone Syrup
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5 from 1 vote

Sno-Cone Syrup

Yes, I do have a machine that shaves ice. I mean, why wouldn’t I? Everyone loves sno-cones. 
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword syrup
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 2 cups
Calories 774kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan.
  • Bring to a boil over high heat and let boil for 1 minute, stirring.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the flavor packet.
  • Allow to cool in the fridge for 1 hour before using.

Notes

Keep syrup in the fridge until ready to use.

Nutrition

Calories: 774kcal | Carbohydrates: 200g | Sodium: 8mg | Potassium: 4mg | Sugar: 200g | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

New Star Foodservice 28560 Smiley Faces Squeeze Bottle Set, Plastic, Red, Yellow, and Clear, 12 oz
New Star Foodservice 28560 Smiley Faces Squeeze Bottle Set, Plastic, Red, Yellow, and Clear, 12 oz

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine

I’m a big fan of poutine. It’s definitely one of my favorite dishes. I’ve made it the classic way (fries, curds, gravy) many times. This time I thought I’d try a totally different approach to poutine. I topped the fries with smoked BBQ pulled pork instead. A handful or two of curds and a pickle garnish and I was in poutine heaven again.

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine

Poutine Elevated

There’s really no way to improve on this BBQ pulled pork poutine. Every bite was flat-out delicious. I used spicy hot pepper cheese curds. I think any flavor (other maybe curds infused with herbs such as rosemary or thyme) would work perfectly.

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

On the off chance that you have a little leftover pulled pork and curds, make a few baked potatoes. Top them with the meat and cheese. You won’t be sorry.

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine

I thought I’d try a totally different approach to poutine and top the fries with smoked BBQ pulled pork instead. A handful or two of curds and a pickle garnish and I was in poutine heaven again.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fries, pulled pork
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 -6 servings
Calories 698kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Spread the fries out onto a large platter.
  • Add pulled pork and cheese curds.
  • Drizzle with the BBQ sauce and garnish with the pickles.
  • Devour.

Notes

The amounts in the recipe can be changed to suit your tastes. I didn’t measure anything very closely, I just went for it. You can’t mess this up so don’t worry about amounts so much.

Nutrition

Calories: 698kcal | Carbohydrates: 70g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 56mg | Sodium: 1864mg | Potassium: 806mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 194IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 268mg | Iron: 3mg

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

Cajun Shrimp-Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Wow, talk about amazingly good. The heck with the main dish, just load me up on some of these Cajun shrimp-stuffed poblano peppers. A slight kick of heat, perfect shrimp and creamy melted cheese. What’s not to love?

Cajun Shrimp-Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Substitute Bell Peppers

You could use green bell peppers instead, if you want, in these Cajun Shrimp-Stuffed Poblano Peppers. I love poblanos because they are a little spicier than a bell pepper without just completely drowning out a dish in heat.

Kick ‘Em Up

For extra kick, substitute shredded pepper jack cheese for the feta and mozzarella and add a few diced roasted jalapenos into the shrimp mixture. That’ll definitely liven up the party.

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

Also try my Cajun stuffed chicken breast and my bacon cheese-stuffed peppers!

Cajun Shrimp-Stuffed Poblano Peppers
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5 from 1 vote

Cajun Shrimp-Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Wow, talk about amazingly good. The heck with the main dish, just load me up on some of these Cajun shrimp-stuffed poblano peppers. A slight kick of heat, perfect shrimp and creamy melted cheese. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword peppers, shrimp, stuffed
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 127kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Chili Pepper Madness

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 large poblano peppers
  • ½ pound shrimp raw or pre-cooked, 24-30 count, peeled, deveined
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil if you are using raw shrimp
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • ¼ cup feta cheese crumbled
  • ¼ cup Mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • cilantro chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  • Note: You can use pre-cooked shrimp if you desire. Just toss the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning and do not cook.
  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • Cut the peppers in half lengthwise. Remove any stems or seeds.
  • If using cooked shrimp, toss the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning in a large bowl.
  • If using raw shrimp, heat the oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with the seasoning, and cook, turning, until done, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • Add the cheeses, basil and hot sauce to the shrimp Stir.
  • Transfer shrimp mixture to the poblanos and place on a baking sheet.
  • Place in oven and bake 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the peppers are softened.
  • Serve garnished with chopped cilantro.

Notes

Substitute jalapenos for the poblanos for an appetizer-sized kicked-up version!

Nutrition

Calories: 127kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 157mg | Sodium: 698mg | Potassium: 258mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1266IU | Vitamin C: 71mg | Calcium: 188mg | 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)

Black Forest Cheesecake

I can’t bake, and I’m not afraid to admit it. But that doesn’t mean I can’t throw together a simple delicious pie or cheesecake. I haven’t yet graduated to making my own crusts, so I ‘cheat’ and grab those pre-made ones from the store. I have to, it’s just the way it is. This Black Forest cheesecake came out fantastic despite my lack of baking skills. A nice chocolatey flavor, perfect texture, and topped with yummy tart cherries. Dangerously good. Heck, I’m pretty darned proud of my total lack of baking skills now!

Black Forest Cheesecake

Don’t Mess With Perfection

What I do differently next time I make a Black Forest cheesecake? Nothing. Not a thing. Well, ok, I might double the recipe and make four cheesecakes instead of just two. I’ll be taking a few of these to our next family holiday get-together, that’s for sure! I’m a huge, huge fan of cheesecakes and this version is just another great reason why. You just can’t beat them for flavor, appearance and simplicity!

Duncan Hines Comstock Country Fruit Pie Filling & Topping, Cherry, 21 oz
Duncan Hines Comstock Country Fruit Pie Filling & Topping, Cherry, 21 oz

Also try my no-bake red velvet cheesecake. It’s one of my wife’s all-time favorites! She’s always on the look-out for something red velvet and the cheesecake more than satisfied her taste buds!

Inspired by a recipe from Kraft.

Black Forest Cheesecake
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5 from 1 vote

Black Forest Cheesecake

 This Black Forest cheesecake came out fantastic despite my lack of baking skills. A nice chocolatey flavor, perfect texture, and topped with yummy tart cherries. Dangerously good.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword cheesecake
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 6 hours
Servings 2 pies
Calories 2146kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Kraft

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Pre-heat your oven to 325º F.
  • Place cream cheese, sugar and vanilla into the bowl of a mixer and mix until blended.
  • Add the sour cream and chocolate and blend.
  • With the blender running, add the eggs one at a time until blended.
  • Divide mixture between the two pie pans (they’ll be pretty full) and bake 40 minutes or until the center is almost set.
  • Let cool completely then refrigerate for 4 hours.
  • Spread Cool Whip over tops of cheesecakes.
  • Serve slices with a spoonful or two of the cherry pie filling.

Notes

Worth every calorie!

Nutrition

Calories: 2146kcal | Carbohydrates: 250g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 114g | Saturated Fat: 51g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 451mg | Sodium: 999mg | Potassium: 1037mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 147g | Vitamin A: 1460IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 352mg | Iron: 12mg

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)