Category: Appetizers, Desserts & Snacks

Quick Fix Desert Heat Chips

I find myself being un-impressed with most store-bought ‘spicy’ potato chips. Yeah, some are spicy, but they don’t taste good. And some taste great, but they sure aren’t spicy. The solution? Make some quick fix Desert Heat potato chips. Done in minutes, spiced just like I want, these are the chips I was searching for! I owned these chips. I could put as much darned seasoning on there as I want! All I need are some chips and Buffalo Wild Wings Desert Heat Wing Seasoning!

Quick Fix Desert Heat Chips

Ruffled Chips For The Win

I prefer to use wavy ruffled chips any time I make my quick fix Desert Heat potato chips. The thick chips hold up to being tossed in the seasoning. And the ridges give the seasoning more and more places to cling to, making sure I get nothing but flavor in each and every bite!

Not that I mean to over-stress it, but I will mention you don’t need any fancy fru-fru chips for this recipe. In fact, I’d stay away from them. You want wavy chips, preferably. And frankly, you want chips that are a bit oily. Yep. Once heated, the chips will release that oil and that’s what you need to get the seasonings stuck on there good!

Sale
Amazon Fresh, Classic Potato Chips, 11 Oz...
Amazon Fresh, Classic Potato Chips, 11 Oz…
  • WHAT’S INSIDE: One 11-ounce bag of Classic Potato…
  • NEW LOOK: Your favorite Happy Belly products are…
$1.99 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Also try my quick fix barbecue chips.

Quick Fix Desert Heat Chips
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Desert Heat Chips

I prefer to use wavy ruffled chips any time I make my quick fix Desert Heat potato chips.
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword potato chips, quick fix, spicy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 452kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 275 F.
  • Spread chips out onto a baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes. You should see that the oils in the chips have come to the surface.
  • Gently transfer chips to a large bowl and sprinkle with the seasoning. Use a spatula to carefully stir to coat.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Be gentle when stirring to avoid breaking the chips.

Nutrition

Calories: 452kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 448mg | Potassium: 1020mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 18mg | 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…
$39.99
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

Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp

This is it. The best shrimp I’ve ever made. With the best dipping sauce. I could eat these Parrot Bay coconut shrimp embarrassingly fast, and in embarrassingly large quantities. I’m not ashamed to admit it. They’re fantastic. Lightly crunchy. Lightly sweet. With a wonderful tropical sauce. There’s coconut all around, but it’s not overpowering at all. It’s perfect. These are amazingly good shrimp.

Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp

Quality Ingredients Make For Great Shrimp

The key to these Parrot Bay coconut shrimp is to not skimp on the ingredients. Get quality coconut rum. Get good pina colada mix. And most importantly, get great shrimp. I only use wild-caught Florida or Louisiana shrimp. Shrimp to Shore ships as soon as their catch is caught.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

If you search around, you’ll find quality shrimp that is fresh-caught, not farm-raised, and can be delivered to your doorstep quickly. Or find a local fish monger that can get you shrimp. Don’t settle for less than the best, this dish deserves it.

Also try my other take on coconut shrimp with a dipping sauce.

Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp

If you search around, you'll find quality shrimp that is fresh-caught, not farm-raised, and can be delivered to your doorstep quickly.
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword coconut, deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 910kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Pina Colada Dipping Sauce

For the Shrimp

Instructions

For the Pina Colada Dipping Sauce

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

For the Shrimp

  • Heat a few inches of oil to 350 F in a Dutch oven or deep fryer.
  • Set out three medium bowls.
  • In the first bowl, place 3/4 cups of flour.
  • In the second bowl, combine the remaining 3/4 cup of flour, sugar and salt.
  • Add the milk and rum and stir or whisk until smooth.
  • In the last bowl combine the panko and coconut.
  • Let the wet batter stand for minutes.
  • Working in batches, dip the shrimp in the bowl of flour. Toss to coat. Shake off any excess flour.
  • Next, transfer the shrimp to the wet batter and dunk and turn to coat well. Shake off any excess batter.
  • Last, place the shrimp in the panko mixture and toss to coat.
  • Fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Remove to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Serve hot with the pina colada dipping sauce.

Notes

The sauce is delicious. Make extra.

Nutrition

Calories: 910kcal | Carbohydrates: 135g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 49mg | Sodium: 585mg | Potassium: 577mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 40g | Vitamin A: 571IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 288mg | Iron: 7mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Smoked Cheez-Its

Smoked Cheez-Its are the perfect game-time snack. They’re addictingly good. They’ll disappear unexpectedly quickly, so make sure you make extra. And make all sorts of different flavors. Since I had all sorts of different flavors of Kosmos Q seasonings on hand I was able to make all sorts of variations, from the mild and sweet to the hot and spicy.

Smoked Cheez-Its

You Can Smoke Any Snack Cracker!

Truth be told, the method for making smoked Cheez-Its can be used for pretty much any snack cracker. You’ll want to use a fairly mild-flavored cracker, or use one that compliments the seasoning you want to use. You don’t want the cracker flavor to fight the seasoning.

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

Don’t crowd the crackers in the pan. Make sure they get spread out to get some of the smoke flavor, too.

Also try some smoked Cheetos.

Smoked Cheez-Its
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Smoked Cheez-Its

Don't crowd the crackers in the pan. Make sure they get spread out to get some of the smoke flavor, too.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword crackers, smoked
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
15 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 157kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for 225 F. Use a lighter wood. You want a bit of smoke but don't overdo it.
  • Place the crackers in a large bowl.
  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the oil, Worcestershire sauce and seasoning. Drizzle over the crackers and gently stir to coat the crackers. Take your time, you want them all covered well.
  • Transfer the coated crackers to a large disposable pan, spread out evenly, and place onto the smoker.
  • Smoke the crackers for 90 minutes, stirring every 30 minutes. The crackers will turn a golden brown. They'll be a little soft, but don't worry, they'll get crunchier when they cool.
  • Remove from the smoker and let cool before serving. Optionally, spread out onto a wire rack to cool quicker.

Notes

You can also use other flavors of Cheez-It or even try a mix of different ones.

Nutrition

Calories: 157kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 402mg | Potassium: 83mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 27IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 2mg

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

Roasted Hatch Chile Queso Dip

Here recently I bought my first ever case of Hatch chiles. I had no idea how big a case would be, but I do now. Over 150 peppers. I roasted them all, freezing some (whole) for later use. The rest, well, I put to work immediately. Starting with this wonderful roasted Hatch chile queso dip. The roasted chiles add such a fantastic flavor to what is your pretty-much-standard queso dip. A good queso dip that is mighty good to start with. Nice and creamy, this is the perfect dip for a party. I didn’t add any hot sauce, but you could. Just don’t go crazy with it, you don’t want to hide the taste of the peppers.

Roasted Hatch Chile Queso Dip

Great On Burgers, Too.

You can use this recipe for roasted Hatch chile queso dip to make a great topping for hamburgers. Or hot dogs. Just cut back on the half and half and let the sauce come to the desired thickness.

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

If you can’t find roasted Hatch chiles, you can substituted canned roasted chiles or, you can roast poblano or Anaheim chiles in the oven or on the grill and use those instead. Or get the real deal delivered directly to your door.

Roasted Hatch Chile Queso Dip
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Roasted Hatch Chile Queso Dip

The roasted chiles add such a fantastic flavor to what is your pretty-much-standard queso dip (which is mighty good to start with). Nice and creamy, this is the perfect dip for a party.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword cheese, dip
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 cups
Calories 592kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Wicked Noodle

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat oil over medium heat in a large saucepan.
  • Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes or until the onion starts to soften.
  • Add the garlic, stir and cook another minute.
  • Add the flour, stir, and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Whisk in the evaporated milk. Stir and cook until the mixture thickens.
  • Add salt and pepper and stir.
  • Stir in the cheese until melted.
  • Slowly stir in the half and half until the sauce reaches the desired thickness.
  • Stir in the Hatch chiles and serve warm.

Notes

If the dip is too thick, stir in a (very) little more of the half and half.

Nutrition

Calories: 592kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 48g | Saturated Fat: 25g | Cholesterol: 129mg | Sodium: 992mg | Potassium: 208mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 953IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 809mg | 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…
$39.99
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

Mac and Ernie’s Fried Shrimp

I’m a fried shrimp addict. You’d think that by now I’d have enough recipes for making them. Yet I’m always on the look out for more and more. I came across this recipe from a roadside eatery in Texas, Mac and Ernie’s, and knew I had to make it. Not so much because the breading seemed different, but because it uses evaporated milk. And what a difference it makes! Crispy crunchy lightly spicy outside, tender, slightly sweet inside, Mac and Ernie’s fried shrimp are exactly what I was craving.

Mac and Ernie's Fried Shrimp

Fresh-Caught Is Better-Tasting

I used fresh-caught Florida shrimp for my Mac and Ernie’s fried shrimp. I try to get either gulf shrimp or Florida shrimp and avoid the farm-raised imported shrimp as much as possible. The taste difference is noticeable. Why go through the effort of frying your own shrimp only to use poorer quality shrimp?

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Also try my roadside seafood fried shrimp.

Mac and Ernie's Fried Shrimp
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Mac and Ernie’s Fried Shrimp

Be sure to not over-cook the shrimp.
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 287kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Mac & Ernie’s Roadside Eatery

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a deep fryer or Dutch oven to 360 F.
  • Combine the flour, pepper, salt, Cajun seasoning and onion powder in a bowl (I like to use a pie plate).
  • Beat the eggs in another bowl.
  • Add the evaporated milk and beat to combine.
  • Working in batches, dip the shrimp in the egg mixture.
  • Shake off excess then roll in the flour mixture. Shake off excess.
  • Fry 2 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.

Notes

Serve with cocktail sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 287kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 937mg | Potassium: 240mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 424IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 135mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Garlic Parmesan Pizza Rolls

I was weak. Oh so weak. I made a small batch of garlic Parmesan pizza rolls thinking that I could control myself. Who said that 18 of the little bites are actually 3 servings? Maybe even 4 servings? Well, I’m here to argue that it’s impossible to eat just a few of them. Someone’s math is off or they made a typo, because no way can anyone stop eating these.

These bites are insanely good. Lightly crunchy. Definitely garlicky. With just enough Parmesan so you get that taste, that nuttiness, that saltiness. Served with warmed marinara sauce for dipping, these are some of the best appetizers you’ll find.

Garlic Parmesan Pizza Rolls

Oh My. There Goes My Self-Control.

To make my garlic Parmesan pizza rolls, I first deep-fried them and then tossed them in the delicious sauce. That’s mostly because I had my deep-fryer out still from a delicious shrimp dinner. You could bake them instead, and even air fry them if you wanted. I don’t think they’d be quite as good (nothing’s as good as deep fried!), but they’ll still be covered in the delicious sauce. And the sauce is the big time winner here.

The Crunch

Ok, time for me to fess up. I have a thing about the little crunchy edges that you get on pizza rolls. That seam along the edges and at the corners. Man, I love that. It’s like fried dough heaven. Sure, the middle where all the stuff is is great. You bet. But, I love that crunchy contrast. Is it wrong that I eat the filling first, so I enjoy that crunchy edge last?

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

This recipe was inspired by a recipe from the Salty Side Dish.

Also try my quick-fix seasoned pizza rolls.

Garlic Parmesan Pizza Rolls
Print Pin
4.50 from 2 votes

Garlic Parmesan Pizza Rolls

Delicious little bites that disappear in no time!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword garlic Parmesan, pizza rolls
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 3
Calories 25kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Salty Side Dish

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat a few inches of oil to 350 F in a saucepan, or use a deep fryer.
  • Working in batches if needed, deep fry the pizza rolls for 3 minutes, flipping once.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Transfer pizza rolls to a large bowl.
  • In a separate small bowl, stir together the butter and garlic.
  • Drizzle over the pizza rolls and toss gently to coat.
  • Sprinkle rolls with basil and cheese.
  • Toss gently to coat.
  • Serve with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Notes

I also like to dip these in Ranch dressing.

Nutrition

Calories: 25kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 32mg | Potassium: 58mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 76IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 43mg | Iron: 0.1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Batter-Fried Shrimp

I’m usually a crunchy-fried-shrimp kind of guy. You know, a bit of flour, a bit of cornmeal. These batter-fried shrimp are a bit different, yet still crunchy. The batter is much like you would find on, say, fried cod for a fish sandwich or a basket of fish and chips. Because I have an unnatural addiction to fish and chips, it’s not surprising that I’m now addicted to these shrimp. The batter stuck perfectly, the shrimp cooked up beautifully golden brown delicious, and all was right in the world again. And I ate more than I should!

Batter-Fried Shrimp

Deliciously Soft Batter

The batter makes these batter-fried shrimp look a lot bigger than they are. Even though it’s thick, it’s not ‘ewwwy’ thick at all. It’s light and crispy, just like I like. I’d definitely use this same batter on cod. Or chicken legs (who remembers peg legs from Long John Silver’s? They were my favorite!).

Crunchies

Ok, so speaking of Long John Silver’s. I know I am not the only one that always asked for more ‘crunchies’. I so much loved those little bites of deep-fried batter. Crunchy. Hot. Delicious. So guess what? You can make them with this batter!!! Yes! Just take a spoon of batter (you’ll probably have a bit leftover just for this!) and drizzle it around into the hot oil. Fry a few minutes until golden brown then remove to a paper-towel. Boom! Crunchies!

Since there’s just the two of us, I use a Fry Daddy fryer for these shrimp. It’s the perfect size for something like this.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

For a twist, add a few shakes of Old Bay or Creole seasoning to the batter before dipping the shrimp.

Also try my fried shrimp basket.

Batter-Fried Shrimp
Print Pin
4.75 from 4 votes

Batter-Fried Shrimp

The batter recipe would also be great on code fillets.
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 395kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Bake Space

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Pat shrimp dry.
  • Heat a few inches of oil to 350 F in a Dutch oven or a deep fryer.
  • Combine 1/2 cup of oil and the egg and beat well. Add remaining ingredients except oil for frying and stir until smooth.
  • Working in batches, dip shrimp in the batter and coat well.
  • Add shrimp to the fryer and fry for 1 minute. Turn and fry another 1 minute or until golden brown. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain.

Notes

The coating is reminiscent of fish and chips.

Nutrition

Calories: 395kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 609mg | Potassium: 94mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 109IU | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Tailgate Cocktail Smokies

For a moment there I thought that Hillshire Farm’s had changed the recipe for their Lit’l Smokies. I mean, I almost thought I was eating a shrimp cocktail. Ah, but it was that combination of ketchup and horseradish that was fooling me. After a few hours in the slow cooker those flavors found their way into every bite of sausage. These tailgate cocktail smokies were really, really quite good. Unexpectedly good. These aren’t your standard issue BBQ-sauce-and-smokies appetizers. I’d make these again. And again.

Tailgate Cocktail Smokies

Cocktail Smokies Elevated

I’m not usually a big horseradish fan. I mean, I like it but it can get overwhelming for me if there’s too much. Not in this case. I think the recipe for tailgate cocktail smokies is spot-on for the amount. Those 4 hours of time in the crockpot really mellow it out making it a wonderful flavor.

Hillshire Farm Lit'l Smokies Smoked Sausage, 14 oz
Hillshire Farm Lit’l Smokies Smoked Sausage, 14 oz
  • One 14 oz package of Hillshire Farm Lit’l…
  • Made with quality cuts of meat and smoked to…
$4.24 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Also try my slow cooker bourbon cocktail sausages.

Tailgate Cocktail Smokies
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Tailgate Cocktail Smokies

These aren’t your standard issue BBQ-sauce-and-smokies appetizers. I’d make these again. And again.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword cocktail, sausage
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Servings 24
Calories 154kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Spray a small slow cooker with non-stick spray.
  • Add all ingredients and stir.
  • Cover and warm on low for 4 hours, stirring every hour or so.

Notes

This recipe requires no messing with it. These are addicting.

Nutrition

Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Sodium: 439mg | Potassium: 97mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 26IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Sale
Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular...
Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular…
  • Package Includes: Six (6) Reynolds Kitchens Slow…
  • Easy Cleanup: These strong, reliable slow cooker…
$4.59 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Pimento Cheese Fondue

Oh yes! Give me a bowl of pimento cheese fondue and stand back! Smooth, creamy, cheesiness, loaded with pimentos. Pimentos in every bite. Pimentos everywhere. Perfect for dipping just about anything that can be dipped. I found celery to be the perfect combination for this dip. Crackers too. And corn chips. Heck, just about anything you can find is gonna be good in this fondue.

Pimento Cheese Fondue

Makes For A Great Sauce, Too

Pimento cheese fondue isn’t just for dipping, either. Spread a little on your sandwich bread. Put a big ole dollop on your baked potato. Or use it as a sauce for steamed vegetables, like broccoli or cauliflower.

Yes, I do have a fondue pot. I love it. They get a bad rap. They’re fun!

Cuisinart Electric Fondue Set, Nonstick Interior...
Cuisinart Electric Fondue Set, Nonstick Interior…
  • 3-QUART FONDUE SET: This 3-quart capacity…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE PROBE: The fondue set…
$99.95 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Don’t mess with that pre-shredded cheese when you make this fondue. Get a grater/shredder and you’ll never regret it!

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 try my cheese fondue mac-and-cheese!

Pimento Cheese Fondue
Print Pin
3.50 from 2 votes

Pimento Cheese Fondue

Oh yes! Give me a bowl of pimento cheese fondue and stand back! Smooth, creamy, cheesiness, loaded with pimentos. Pimentos in every bite. Perfect for dipping just about anything that can be dipped.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword dip, pimento, pimiento
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 147kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Katie Lee

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine Cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
  • Stir until melted, about 4 minutes.
  • Stir in pimientos, pickle relish, onion powder, garlic salt, hot sauce, if using, and some black pepper.
  • Transfer to a serving dish and serve with crackers or favorite dippers.

Notes

You can transfer the mixture to a fondue pot or small slow cooker set to low to keep warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 147kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 246mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 600IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Sale
Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular...
Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular…
  • Package Includes: Six (6) Reynolds Kitchens Slow…
  • Easy Cleanup: These strong, reliable slow cooker…
$4.59 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Deep-Fried Ravioli

I’m by no means the first person to deep-fry ravioli. And there’s nothing particularly new or out-of-the-box amazing about this recipe. But, this is the best version of the yummy little fried bites that I’ve made. It’s my go-to, easy dinner recipe. Nothing fancy. Just really yummy. And a bit decadent. That’s probably why it’s yummy!

Deep-Fried Ravioli

Psssst… It’s Ok To Add Some Heat!

I do admit, I do sometimes make a slight change to my deep-fried ravioli recipe. I like to add a few pinches of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the bread crumb mix. Sometimes I just want a bit of a kick, especially if I am serving these bites as appetizers instead of as the main course.

I use my Fry Daddy fryer when I make anything deep fried for just the two of us. It’s small, uses little oil and does a great job of frying.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon

Also try my deep-fried zucchini.

Deep-Fried Ravioli
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Deep-Fried Ravioli

I like to add a few pinches of red pepper flake or cayenne to the bread crumb mix.
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword deep-fried, ravioli
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 647kcal
Author Based on a recipe from I Am Homesteader

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place a wire rack on a large baking sheet. You need a sheet that will fit in your freezer. If you don't have one, or don't have room, use plates lined with parchment paper instead.
  • Place flour in a pie plate.
  • Whisk the eggs with the milk in another pie plate.
  • In a third pie plate, combine the Italian bread crumbs, cheese, garlic powder, kosher salt and pepper.
  • Working in batches, coat the ravioli in the flour. Then coat in the egg mixture. Shake off any excess then coat in the breadcrumb mixture. Shake off excess and transfer to the wire rack on a single layer.
  • Place the baking sheet into the freezer for 30 minutes.
  • Heat oil to 350 F in a deep fryer or Dutch oven.
  • Line a few plates with paper towels.
  • Working in batches, fry the ravioli for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, turning once. Transfer to the paper towel-lined plates.
  • Sprinkle with additional cheese and serve with warmed marinara sauce.

Notes

I also like to dip these in Ranch dressing.

Nutrition

Calories: 647kcal | Carbohydrates: 85g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 137mg | Sodium: 1653mg | Potassium: 407mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 614IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 233mg | Iron: 15mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer...
Amazon Basics 3.2-Qt (3.0L) Electric Deep Fryer…
  • FAST-HEATING & FAMILY-SIZE: This powerful…
  • ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE & VERSATILE COOKING: With…
$58.67 Amazon Prime
Buy on Amazon