Category: Main Dishes

Broccoli Cheddar Pockets

By golly, these broccoli cheddar pockets do taste just like the pockets you can get out of the freezer section in your grocery store! Actually, they taste even better. Quite a bit better! That might be because there’s extra ooey-gooey extra sharp cheddar cheese inside. Oh, yeah, there’s some healthy broccoli thrown in too. Plenty of it. And well, yes, I did add a bit of bacon. How could you not? All that good broccoli cancels out any ‘bad’ in the bacon, right? That’s my story at least.

Broccoli Cheddar Pockets

Keep ‘Em In The Freezer For A Quick Lunch

You can make a big batch of these broccoli cheddar pockets then freeze them for later. Just pop them into the microwave or oven to reheat (until the cheese melts). Nice and easy!

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

You can easily make copycats of the other pocket flavors you find in your grocery store’s freezer. Just fill with cooked (the dryer the better!) ingredients and seal! Try my pulled pork pockets too!

Broccoli Cheddar Pockets
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5 from 1 vote

Broccoli Cheddar Pockets

By golly, these broccoli cheddar pockets do taste just like the pockets you can get out of the freezer section in your grocery store! Actually, they taste even better. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword broccoli, cheese, pockets
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 337kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups broccoli florets frozen chopped
  • 4-6 slices bacon cooked, chopped (optional)
  • 1 ¾ cups sharp cheddar cheese grated, about 5 ounces
  • 3 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons chives chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 1 tube Pillsbury® Crusty French bread dough
  • 1 egg
  • Water

Instructions

  • Cook broccoli per package instructions. Drain well.
  • Place broccoli in a large bowl and gently stir in the bacon, cheddar, sour cream and chives.
  • Preheat oven to 425 F.
  • Spray a baking sheet with non-stick spray.
  • Lightly flour a flat surface.
  • Divide the dough into 4 equally sized pieces and roll out into 6″ x 8″ rectangles.
  • Divide the broccoli mixture between each piece of dough, placing the ingredients in the center.
  • Fold the 2 shorter sides of the dough over the filling, stretching to cover.
  • Fold the 2 long sides over like a burrito and pinch the edges to seal.
  • Place the pockets seam-side down on the baking sheet.
  • Beat the egg and 1 tablespoon warm water in a small bowl or glass. Brush the pockets with the egg wash.
  • Bake until golden brown, about 15 minutes.

Notes

You can freeze these and reheat in the microwave, oven or toaster oven.

Nutrition

Calories: 337kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 112mg | Sodium: 488mg | Potassium: 232mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 897IU | Vitamin C: 31mg | Calcium: 391mg | 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)

Buffalo Chicken Mushrooms

I made a nice big ole batch of Buffalo chicken on my Char-Broil Big Easy the other day. Nothing beats the kick of moist, shredded Buffalo chicken. Besides using the chicken in sandwiches, on pizzas, and in wraps, I also used it in a wonderful stuffing for these Buffalo chicken mushrooms.

Although I ended up serving this as a main dish using large mushrooms, the stuffing is perfect in smaller button mushrooms, served up as bite-sized appetizers. They’re full of creamy cheese, celery, carrot and onion, all with the  kick of Buffalo wing sauce.

Buffalo Chicken Mushrooms

Good On The Grill Or Out Of The Oven

Of course, you don’t have to make chicken on the grill to make these delightful Buffalo chicken mushrooms. Any ole Buffalo chicken recipe will do, like my slow cooker version! Serve these mushrooms with my bratwurst stuffed mushrooms for an interesting mix.

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

Inspired by a recipe from the Snappyu Gourmet.

Buffalo Chicken Mushrooms
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4 from 1 vote

Buffalo Chicken Mushrooms

Although I ended up serving this as a main dish using large mushrooms, the stuffing is perfect in smaller button mushrooms, served up as bite-sized appetizers.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Buffalo, chicken, mushroom
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 100kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Snappy Gourmet

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 pound mushrooms small, medium or large depending on how you are serving them. I used small for appetizers, mediums for a side dish, and large when serving as a main dish
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup Buffalo chicken warmed. I used our slow cooker version
  • 1 tablespoon Ranch salad dressing
  • ½ cup celery shredded
  • ¼ cup carrot shredded
  • ¼ cup red onion shredded

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425 F or fire up a grill for direct cooking.
  • Remove mushroom stems and scoop out the insides.
  • Combine the remaining ingredients in a bowl.
  • Spoon chicken mixture into mushrooms, filling to just the tops or they will overflow.
  • Bake or grill 8-10 minutes until the mushrooms have softened.

Notes

For easy clean up use a grill basket.

Nutrition

Calories: 100kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 716mg | Potassium: 317mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1184IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 28mg | 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)

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

I cannot get enough of Sloppy Joes. I love Bayou Sloppy Joes. Seriously messy Sloppy Joes. Sloppy Joes made with chorizo. Sloppy Joes made in a slow cooker. Any way you cook ’em, I’ll eat ’em. Like these Philly cheesesteak Sloppy Joes. Made in just minutes, and packed with the flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Of course, topped with a creamy cheese sauce. Now, if you don’t think provolone cheese is ‘proper’ on a cheesesteak, you can surely substitute Cheese Wiz and have your Sloppy Joe ‘with’.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes. Elevated.

I was raised on A-1 steak sauce, but some folks were raised on Heinz 57. Either sauce (or any other steak sauce for that matter) is great on these Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes sandwiches.

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 copycat Manwich Sloppy Joes and my crazy-good slow cooker cheesesteaks.

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes
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5 from 1 vote

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes

Made in just minutes, and packed with the flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Of course, topped with a creamy cheese sauce. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword cheesesteak, sloppy Joes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 615kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Taste of Home

Equipment

Ingredients

For the sandwich

For the cheese sauce

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup provolone cheese shredded, or if sliced, torn into pieces

Instructions

For the sandwich

  • Melt the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the onion and peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the beef and brown, breaking into small pieces. Drain if necessary.
  • Add the steak sauce and broth. Stir.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Reduce heat and let simmer until the sauce is reduced.
  • Toast buns as desired.
  • Serve buns topped with meat mixture and a few spoonfuls of the cheese sauce.

For the cheese sauce

  • Melt the butter in a sauce pan over medium-high heat.
  • Stir in the flour and cook about 1 minute, whisking.
  • Slowly add the milk while whisking.
  • Cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking continuously, until thickened.
  • Reduce heat to low and add the cheese.
  • Stir until the cheese is melted and thick.

Notes

Also great made using Monterey jack or pepper jack cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 615kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 110mg | Sodium: 831mg | Potassium: 722mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 534IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 440mg | 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)

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

My wife and I really enjoyed the flavors of this super-simple chicken Cordon Bleu casserole. Tender chicken with a bit of ham and crunchy breadcrumb topping. And of course that wonderful Dijon mustard flavor in a creamy cheesy sauce. This is the perfect quick and easy meal for a cool late-winter evening.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Use Thin Chicken Cuts

I prefer to butterfly chicken breasts in just about any recipe where I need them. They cook up more evenly, and a bit quicker. And I like the texture better. I like a big ole thick beef steak, but that’s about the only time I need my meat cut thick. For chicken, I think thinner is better.

Spice It Up

If I’m feeling adventurous the next time I make this chicken Cordon Bleu casserole I might try a little twist or two. Maybe use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss for a nice kick to the sauce. Or maybe add a pinch or two of cayenne in with the breadcrumbs. Oh, this dish is great as it is, but I hardly ever pass up the opportunity to add some heat.

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 paprika chicken with sour cream gravy.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

 Tender chicken with a bit of ham, crunchy breadcrumb topping, and of course that wonderful Dijon mustard flavor in a creamy cheesy sauce. This is the perfect quick and easy meal for a cool late-winter evening.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword casserole, chicken, ham
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 6
Calories 556kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the casserole

  • 4 chicken breasts boneless, skinless, butterflied
  • 8-10 slices deli sandwich meat ham, thin
  • 1 ½ cups Swiss cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
  • â…› teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

For the sauce

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 F.
  • Spray a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Layer chicken in the bottom of the dish.
  • Top the chicken with the ham sandwich meat and sprinkle with the Swiss cheese.
  • In a bowl, combine the Panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
  • Sprinkle the Panko mixture over the top of the chicken.
  • Drizzle with the melted butter and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is done and the Panko has started to brown. Place under the broiler for a minute or two to brown further if desired.
  • Serve with sauce.

For the sauce

  • Melt the butter in a medium saucepan.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 3 minutes.
  • Whisk in the milk and broth.
  • Continue whisking until the sauce thickens.
  • Whisk in the mustard, Worcestershire sauce and salt and pepper and serve.

Notes

Substitute a little pepper jack for some of the Swiss for a little kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 556kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 51g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 180mg | Sodium: 1092mg | Potassium: 794mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 707IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 325mg | 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)

Turkey and Stuffing Egg Rolls

When I came across this idea for making egg rolls packed with turkey and stuffing there was no way that I was going to wait until I had Thanksgiving leftovers to make them. I had to make them immediately. So I did. Cranberry sauce and gravy made for the perfect dipping sauces. Every bite tasted like the best Thanksgiving ever. Absolutely fantastic.

Turkey and Stuffing Egg Rolls

Terribly Addicting

I loved the crunchy egg roll contrasting with the sage stuffing and tender turkey. The cranberry sauce is a little thinner than your usual Thanksgiving version so that it’s easier to dip into. You might want to thin your gravy with a bit of milk or broth too if it’s too thick for successful dipping!

If I’m cooking for a crowd, I’ll break out my big deep fryer. But, if it’s just the two of us, I’ll fire up my Fry Daddy fryer. It’s the perfect size for both of us. It fries everything perfectly. And as an added bonus, it doesn’t use a lot of oil, which saves me money.

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

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Also try my chicken or pork egg rolls.

Turkey and Stuffing Egg Rolls
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5 from 1 vote

Turkey and Stuffing Egg Rolls

When I came across this idea for making egg rolls packed with turkey and stuffing there was no way that I was going to wait until I had Thanksgiving leftovers to make them. 
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword egg rolls, stuffing, Thanksgiving, turkey
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 154kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the egg rolls

  • 1 pound turkey breast cooked, cut into small cubes
  • 1 package Stove Top stuffing prepared (or two cups)
  • 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon warm water
  • 12 egg roll wrappers
  • oil for frying
  • gravy warmed, for dipping (I used our Cajun gravy)
  • Cranberry dipping sauce see below

For the cranberry dipping sauce

Instructions

For the egg rolls

  • Heat a few inches of oil to 375 F in a deep fryer or Dutch oven.
  • Combine the turkey and dressing in a bowl.
  • Working in batches. brush egg and water around edges of the egg roll wrappers.
  • Add 2 tablespoons of turkey in the center of the wrappers.
  • Roll up tightly and fold in the edges. Brush on more egg to help seal the rolls.
  • Fry the egg rolls for 1-2 minutes, rotating as they cook, until golden brown.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.

For the cranberry dipping sauce

  • Place cranberry sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Stir until melted.
  • Add the sugar and zest and stir.
  • Add water as needed to reach the desired consistency.

Notes

Egg rolls can be frozen and reheated in the oven later.

Nutrition

Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 168mg | Potassium: 117mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 45IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Copycat Denny’s Club Sandwich

This is ALMOST a copycat version of Denny’s club sandwich. I had to add a slight twist. After enjoying a copycat of Applebee’s Clubhouse Grille sandwich, which has BBQ sauce slathered on the bread, I just had to do the same with this club sandwich. Otherwise, yeah, it’s a spot-on fantastic copycat of the classic.

I love the tang of the BBQ sauce. I used a hickory-smoked flavored sauce, which I think is the perfect sauce for this sandwich.

Copycat Denny's Club Sandwich

This Is The Perfect Club Sandwich

Now, if BBQ sauce isn’t your thing, substituting Sriracha instead would make for a totally different (and yummy spicy) copycat Denny’s Club sandwich. In fact, that’s a great idea. I am going to make my next club sandwich with Sriracha on it instead! I’m glad I thought of it!

I almost always use Blue Plate mayonnaise in the dishes I make. I think it is the best around. If you can’t find it locally you can pick it up online for a fair price.

Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Blue Plate Real Mayonnaise, Homestyle Mayo For Chicken Salad to Deviled Eggs, 30 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Also try my deviled egg salad sandwich.

Copycat Denny's Club Sandwich
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Denny’s Club Sandwich

This is ALMOST a copycat version of Denny’s club sandwich. I had to add a slight twist.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat, sandwich
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 2 sandwiches
Calories 743kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

  • 6 slices bread
  • 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 4 ounces turkey breast thinly sliced sandwich meat
  • 4 ounces ham thinly sliced sandwich meat
  • ½ cup Iceberg lettuce shredded or leaves
  • 4 slices bacon cooked
  • 4 slices tomato

Instructions

  • Toast the bread as desired.
  • Slather one side of two of the slices of the bread with mayonnaise.
  • Top with some lettuce, a slice of tomato, a slice of bacon, and the turkey.
  • Top each sandwich stack with a piece of bread.
  • Add more lettuce, tomato, another slice of bacon, and the ham.
  • Slather one side of two other slices of the bread with BBQ sauce (optional).
  • Add to sandwich.
  • Secure with toothpicks or skewers and serve.

Notes

For a nice twist, use a spicy BBQ sauce!

Nutrition

Calories: 743kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 42g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 101mg | Sodium: 1790mg | Potassium: 736mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 618IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 146mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Caribbean Shrimp Pasta

I love Louisiana gulf shrimp. Nothing tastes better, in my opinion, and it’s night-and-day different than the ‘other’ shrimp you get in your grocer’s freezer. It’s probably sacrilege then to have used a bottled salsa in this dish. But time was of the essence the night I made it. And I was very happy with the end result. This Caribbean shrimp pasta tastes and feels light despite having a bit of cream added in. The cilantro, avocado and peach mango salsa give it that fresh, tropical feel.

Caribbean Shrimp Pasta

Different Fruits, Different Dish!

You could easily make this Caribbean Shrimp Pasta a completely different dish just by using a different fruit salsa, such as citrus pineapple, or mango and habanero.

This dish is best prepared in a cast iron skillet. Nothing conducts heat better!

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle. 12 inches and 10.25 inches with 8 inch Set of 3 Cast Iron Frying Pans
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle. 12 inches and 10.25 inches with 8 inch Set of 3 Cast Iron Frying Pans

Also try my pesto shrimp with mushrooms.

Inspired by a recipe from Kevin and Amanda.

Caribbean Shrimp Pasta
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Caribbean Shrimp Pasta

This Caribbean shrimp pasta tastes and feels light despite having a bit of cream added in. The cilantro, avocado and peach mango salsa give it that fresh, tropical feel.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword caribbean, pasta, shrimp
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 492kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Kevin and Amanda

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the shrimp into a large bowl. Season well with salt and pepper.
  • Sprinkle some of the flour over the shrimp and toss to coat. Continue adding flour and tossing the shrimp until they are coated and are no longer sticky.
  • Heat one tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the shrimp but do not overlap them. If you have to, work in batches.
  • Cook the shrimp about 2 minutes per side until they are pink and the coating has started to crust. Flip and cook the other side until pink and the coating crusts. Remove to a plate.
  • Add the broth to the skillet then stir in the cream, salsa and pasta.
  • Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer, cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through.
  • Add the shrimp and remove from heat. Stir and serve topped with avocado and cilantro.

Notes

Any tropical salsa works on this pasta dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 492kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 39g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 510mg | Sodium: 2108mg | Potassium: 713mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1218IU | Vitamin C: 25mg | Calcium: 308mg | Iron: 5mg

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)

Southern Fried Shrimp

These southern fried shrimp are darned good shrimp. I love shrimp, cooked any way you can imagine. Fried or boiled are my favorites. One of my favorite ways to devour shrimp is on a po boy sandwich. Tender with just a bit of coating and plenty of spicy flavor, I cannot stop devouring them shrimp after shrimp. I was already a borderline shrimp addict before these came along. These made it worse.

Southern Fried Shrimp

Spicy Crunchy Deliciousness

If you can’t find Tony Cachere’s fish fry in your grocery store you can use other fish fry mixes or just substitute all-purpose flour that has been seasoned with salt and pepper. You want the good stuff for these southern fried shrimp.

If I’m cooking for a crowd, I’ll break out my big deep fryer. But, if it’s just the two of us, I’ll fire up my Fry Daddy fryer. It’s the perfect size for both of us. It fries everything perfectly. And as an added bonus, it doesn’t use a lot of oil, which saves me money.

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

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Also try my copycat of Applebee’s Sriracha shrimp, Bayou fried shrimp, coconut fried shrimp and my copycat of Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang shrimp. Did I mention how much I love fried shrimp?

Southern Fried Shrimp
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Southern Fried Shrimp

These southern fried shrimp are darned good shrimp. I love shrimp, cooked any way you can imagine.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword crispy, deep-fried, shrimp, southern
Prep Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 3 pounds
Calories 563kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place shrimp into a resealable container or baggie.
  • In a large bowl whisk together the buttermilk and mustard.
  • Pour mixture in with the shrimp, seal, and shake gently to coat.
  • Refrigerate for 1 hour.
  • Whisk together the fish fry mix and cayenne.
  • Heat 3″ of oil in a Dutch oven to 325 F.
  • Working in batches, remove shrimp from container.
  • Shake off excess marinade then transfer to the fry mix.
  • Roll and coat. Shake off any excess coating and place in hot oil.
  • Fry shrimp 1 1/2 minutes per side then transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.

Notes

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or on a po boy.

Nutrition

Calories: 563kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 98g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 1161mg | Sodium: 3750mg | Potassium: 613mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 822IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 847mg | Iron: 10mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli

These creamy Cajun sausage ravioli are dangerous and I definitely cannot be trusted to control myself around them. Not even the least bit. I knew I was going to love them because I love absolutely anything with andouille sausage. These ravioli are packed with andouille, then topped with a simple Cajun-spice sauce. It takes a while to assemble and cook these little morsels, but once you get a system and assembly line down, you’ll be turning them out left and right.

Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli

Got Leftovers?

On the off chance that you have some leftover creamy Cajun sausage ravioli, store them in the fridge on wax paper and make sure they do not touch each other. They like to stick together, and not just a bit either. We’re talking seriously stuck together here. Trust me. I speak with experience.

Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning from Louisiana, Original Blend, No MSG and Kosher, 8 Ounce Can, Pack of 3
Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning from Louisiana, Original Blend, No MSG and Kosher, 8 Ounce Can, Pack of 3

Also try my grilled creamy shrimp and mushroom pasta and my mushroom ravioli.

Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli
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5 from 1 vote

Creamy Cajun Sausage Ravioli

These creamy Cajun sausage ravioli are dangerous and I definitely cannot be trusted to control myself around them. Not even the least bit. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Cajun, creamy, ravioli, sausage
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 28 raviolis
Calories 45kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Bev Cooks

Equipment

Ingredients

For the ravioli

For the sauce

Instructions

For the ravioli

  • Place the sausage into a food processor and pulse until it is minced.
  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the meat and garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Working in batches, lay out the wonton wrappers and place one tablespoon of the meat into the middle.
  • Dip your finger in warm water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
  • Take one corner of the wrapper and fold the filling, forming a triangle.
  • Push down on the meat filling to get as much air out as possible, then pinch the edges to seal.
  • Lower 5-6 ravioli at a time into the boiling water and boil for 1 minute. I found that using a spider (or large slotted spoon) helped make sure that the ravioli don’t fall apart.
  • Remove cooked ravioli to a plate but do not stack them or they will stick together.
  • Continue working in batches until all of the ravioli are cooked.
  • Serve with the sauce.

For the sauce

  • Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and continue cooking for 1 minute.
  • Slowly add the milk while whisking.
  • Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue whisking until the sauce is as thick as you like.
  • Add Cajun seasoning, stir, and serve.

Notes

You can substitute smoked sausage if you cannot find andouille.

Nutrition

Calories: 45kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 90mg | Potassium: 39mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 141IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 16mg | 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)

Shortcut Spaghetti

Yes, sometimes I just grab a big ole jar or two of spaghetti sauce at the grocery store instead of making a big batch of homemade. There’s nothing wrong with that. But I don’t just heat it up and toss it over cooked pasta. Nope, I gotta make my shortcut spaghetti. It’s a dish I started making in my bachelor years, and have perfected over time.

Shortcut Spaghetti

Stick With Italian Sausage

You can use ground beef instead of Italian sausage, but I wouldn’t. The first years I made shortcut spaghetti I used beef. Sausage is better. Much better. And my homemade Italian sausage is fantastic. I make a batch and freeze it in one pound packages. Perfect for a shortcut dish.

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

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

Oh, and I almost forgot! Instead of pasta, serve the meat sauce mixture on a hoagie or sub roll as a sandwich and top with tons of shredded mozzarella. It’s the perfect messy Sloppy Italian Joe sandwich. Or substitute meatballs for the sausage.

Also try my slow cooker spaghetti and meatballs. It’s a favorite in our house!

Shortcut Spaghetti
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Shortcut Spaghetti

You can use ground beef instead of Italian sausage, but I wouldn’t. The first years I made shortcut spaghetti I used beef. Sausage is better. Much better. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword spaghetti
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 21kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 14 ounce ground Italian sausage
  • 1 pound mushrooms sliced
  • 1 large sweet onion chopped
  • 2 24 ounce spaghetti sauce
  • spaghetti cooked per package instructions
  • parsley chopped, for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese grated, for garnish

Instructions

  • Crumble the sausage into a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • When the sausage is almost browned add the mushrooms and onion and continue sauteeing until the onion starts to soften. Remove from heat and drain.
  • Add sauce to a large pot over low heat.
  • Add in the meat mixture.
  • Cover and let simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Serve over cooked pasta (or mix the pasta in with the sauce first) garnished with parsley and Parmesan.

Notes

Also great served with Pecorino-Romano cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 21kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 185mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 8mg | 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)