Category: Main Dishes

Italian Sausage Sandwiches

These Italian sausage sandwiches are my go-to, big event, messy, eat-too-much-of-them sandwiches. I’ve always made them on-the-fly. I’d grab a little of this. And I’d  grab a little of that and throw it all into the pot. This year I decided to finally write them down. Because they rock.

Italian Sausage Sandwiches

Deliciously Messy

Eating these Italian sausage sandwiches requires paper towels. And maybe even bibs. I’ve always said that the messier the sandwich, the better. Same philosophy goes for burgers and hot dogs. If there’s not something dripping down your arms, in your lap or on your shirt, it’s not messy enough.

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 other version of Italian sausage sandwich. Oh, and yeah, I use Johnsonville brand sausages on my sammies!

Italian Sausage Sandwiches
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5 from 1 vote

Italian Sausage Sandwiches

These Italian sausage sandwiches are my go-to, big event, messy, eat-too-much-of-them sandwiches.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Italian, sandwich, sausage
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings 10
Calories 331kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
  • Add the sausages and brown on all sides.
  • Remove to a plate.
  • Add in the peppers and onion and saute for 5 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and cook another minute.
  • Add the mushrooms and cook until just starting to get tender.
  • Add the tomato sauce and paste. Stir well.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  • Add in the sugar, Italian seasoning, and hot sauce, to taste. Stir well.
  • Add the sausages and any juices back to the pot.
  • Cook, simmering for at least an hour.
  • Lightly toast the buns.
  • Serve sausages in buns topped with plenty of sauce, topped with cheese.
  • Place under the broiler for a minute or two to brown.

Notes

Serve with plenty of napkins!

Nutrition

Calories: 331kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 1198mg | Potassium: 873mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 1691IU | Vitamin C: 66mg | Calcium: 95mg | Iron: 13mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red
Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red

Bacon Chicken and Rice

This recipe for bacon chicken rice came from the The Sweet Potato Queens’ Big-Ass Cookbook (and Financial Planner), with modifications. We listened to the an audiobook version a few years ago on a road trip. They are a riot. I’m not sure which is better, though. The podcast or this dish. This is comfort food defined. Nothing fancy. But plenty of great flavor.

Bacon Chicken and Rice

Great For A Crowd

The chicken comes out really tender, and the sauce over rice is great! Bacon chicken and rice is perfect for a crowd. Or keep it all to yourself. It’s almost a meal-in-a-dish recipe. A good green vegetable on the side and you’ve got a great dinner. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, that’s for sure!

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

You can leave out the rice and make my delicious copycat Rice-A-Roni instead.

Bacony Chicken and Rice
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Bacon Chicken and Rice

The chicken comes out really tender, and the sauce over rice is great!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, chicken, rice
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 818kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 300 F.
  • Spray a 9″ x 11″ baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Cover bottom of the baking dish with the bacon.
  • Spread rice over bacon.
  • Place chicken over rice and season with salt, pepper, paprika and Cajun seasoning.
  • In a bowl, combine the soup, water, garlic salt, nutmeg, parsley and oregano. Pour over chicken and spread out evenly.
  • Cover pan with foil and bake for 2 hours. Check that the rice is done and serve.

Notes

You can use chicken breasts instead of the thighs.

Nutrition

Calories: 818kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 39g | Fat: 50g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 200mg | Sodium: 1571mg | Potassium: 555mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 504IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 61mg | 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)

Country Five Bean Soup Mix in a Jar

I made a few of these Country Five bean soup mixes in a jar and gave them out as gifts. Of course, before I did that I made a ‘test batch’ for ourselves. The soup is simple and tasty and quite hardy. I love homemade soup. And even as easy as this is to make, it’s fantastic. I keep a few jars of the mix on hand for a quick and delicious soup any time. Now, granted, I don’t keep the fancy fru-fru versions of the jars in my own pantry for my own use. I save those to give away as special gifts for friends, neighbors and relatives.

Country Five Bean Soup Mix in a Jar

Give The Gift Of Soup

All the recipient of your country five bean soup mix in a jar needs is a pound of smoked sausage (skinless, turkey… any kind will do), a can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs, some water and little time! That’s it! In no time, they’ll be enjoying a bowl of delicious soup that looks, tastes and even smells homemade, like it should!

For the recipe card I just threw a little something together in Word. You can download it here. To print them I used Avery Personal Creations Textured Postcards (3380).

NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine - Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14"x6"x3", Black
NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine – Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14″x6″x3″, Black

This recipe is based on a recipe from Savings Lifestyle.

Country Five Bean Soup Mix in a Jar
Print Pin
4 from 2 votes

Country Five Bean Soup Mix in a Jar

I made a few of these Country Five bean soup mixes in a jar and gave them out as gifts. The soup is simple and tasty and quite hardy. I keep a few jars of the mix on hand for a quick and delicious soup any time.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword beans, soup
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 506kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Savings Lifestyle

Equipment

Ingredients

The jar ingredients (makes 1 jar)

The recipient will need

  • jar soup mix from above
  • 1 pound smoked sausage cut into rounds
  • 1 diced tomatoes with Italian spices
  • 4-6 cups water

Instructions

To assemble the soup-in-a-jar ingredients

  • Layer beans into a 1 quart resealable jar.
  • Place remaining ingredients into a resealable baggie and add to jar.

Instructions for cooking

  • Remove spice packet from jar.
  • Rinse beans in cold water and add to a large pot or Dutch oven.
  • Add enough water to cover the beans. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  • Add spices, tomatoes and sausage. You can brown the sausage first if you wish.
  • Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beans are tender, stirring occasionally.

Notes

Taste the soup when done, you may want to add a pinch or two of salt and pepper.

Nutrition

Calories: 506kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 54mg | Sodium: 667mg | Potassium: 1298mg | Fiber: 15g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 44IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 121mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red
Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red

Salisbury Steak

I was watching an episode of Best Recipes Ever the other day. It’s a Canadian-based cooking show that luckily also now airs here in Indianapolis. The host, Christine Tizzard, was making Salisbury steak. I filed the idea away as something I might make one day.

Salisbury Steak

But as the days passed, I kept thinking about that steak more and more. And yes, I thought about the Salisbury steak that comes in Hungry-Man TV dinners, which were a food staple for me in my college years. The recipe from Christine kept popping into my head, so I finally up and made it and it was GOOD!

Amazon Fresh - Beef Broth, Carton, 32 oz
Amazon Fresh – Beef Broth, Carton, 32 oz

Also try my Salisbury meatballs.

Salisbury Steak
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Salisbury Steak

A great take on the classic dish.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Salisbury, steak
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 669kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Best Recipes Ever

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the beef in a large bowl.
  • Add salt, pepper and 2 tablespoons water.
  • Using your hands, mix well then form into 2-3 1/2″ thick patties.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the patties. Remove to a plate.
  • Remove the drippings from the pan.
  • Add the onion and cook until just soft.
  • Add the mushrooms and thyme and saute until mushrooms soften, about 5 minutes.
  • Sprinkle the flour over the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • While still stirring, slowly add the stock. You might need a whisk to help prevent any clumping.
  • Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should be thick.
  • Add the patties back into the skillet. Cover and simmer until the meat is cooked through, about 15 minutes.
  • Serve patties covered with gravy.

Notes

These can be made ahead and refrigerated until ready to reheat and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 669kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 46g | Fat: 46g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 161mg | Sodium: 979mg | Potassium: 1294mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 23IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 6mg

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)

Southwestern Chili with Corn Chips

Give me a big ole bowl of Southwestern chili and some corn chips and I’m a happy guy. Make it spicy and I’m even happier. There’s a lot of stuff going on in this chili. Lots of great stuff. All things that I love. Despite the long ingredient list this is pretty much a ‘everything into the pot’ kind of recipe. So don’t let it scare you off. The flavors are amazing.

Southwestern Chili with Corn Chips

Not Your Usual Chili

This southwestern chili with corn chips isn’t your typical beef chili. Ya know, the one with beef, a broth. Some onion and tomatoes. Maybe some beans (if you’re outside of Texas, of course). It’s a lot more than that. It’s a mix of textures. Tender. Crunchy. Soft.

Want your chili spicier? Start with the Rotel. Grab the spicy stuff. The really hot stuff. Go find a jalapeno or two. Seed it. Or not. Dice it up. Add it in when you add the bell peppers. Add a pinch of cayenne. Or more than a pinch. Do it up right!

Rotel, Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles Mild 10 Oz
Rotel, Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles Mild 10 Oz

Also try my spicy ground beef chili.

Southwestern Chili with Corn Chips
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Southwestern Chili with Corn Chips

Give me a big ole bowl (or plate) of Southwestern chili and some corn chips and I’m a happy guy. Make it spicy and I’m even happier.
Course Main
Cuisine Southwestern
Keyword chili, corn chips, southwestern
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 478kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Picture-Perfect Meals

Equipment

Ingredients

Serving suggestion

  • Corn chips
  • Green onions sliced
  • sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • Sour cream

Instructions

  • Heat a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat.
  • Crumble the beef into the pot and cook until done.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.
  • Remove all but 1 tablespoon of the drippings.
  • Add the onion and peppers and cook until starting to soften.
  • Add the garlic and cook another minute.
  • Add the tomato paste, chili powders, oregano, paprika, cumin and pepper flakes.Stir.
  • Stir in the masa and 1/2 cup of water. The mixture will begin to thicken.
  • Add the tomatoes, corn, kidney beans and beef. Stir.
  • Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and continue simmering for at least 15 minutes.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Serve with desired toppings.

Nutrition

Calories: 478kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 638mg | Potassium: 1281mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 1587IU | Vitamin C: 34mg | Calcium: 85mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red
Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red

He-Man Chili

Winter doesn’t seem to want to let go this year.  That calls for chili. Or even better, this He-Man chili. This isn’t just your usual chili either. It has amazing flavor. There’s absolutely nothing boring about it. The broth is super-great. I find myself saving it for last so I can savor it the most. Not that the meaty part isn’t total greatness. But, oh, the broth! It has absorbed all the wonderful flavors of the chili. Each spoonful is amazing.

He-Man Chili

I’ve become a big fan of using Italian sausage in my chili. It really adds great flavor and a different texture than beef. It’s just one of the ingredients that really make this He-Man chili something special and something different.

I kinda like to keep the meats in my chilis a little chunky. Not big huge bites, no. I don’t want the texture of the meat to get lost in the rest of the ingredients, I want to notice it. Especially the Italian sausage with all of its great flavors.

Amazon Fresh - Beef Broth, Carton, 32 oz
Amazon Fresh – Beef Broth, Carton, 32 oz

Also try my old fashioned two-meat chili.

He-Man Chili
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

He-Man Chili

Winter doesn’t seem to want to let go this year.  That calls for chili. Or even better, this He-Man chili.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword beef, chili, sausage
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 391kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Ms. enPlace

Equipment

Ingredients

Suggested toppings

Instructions

  • Heat a large Dutch oven or pot.
  • Add the bacon and cook until crispy,
  • Remove to a large paper towel-lined plate.
  • Remove all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
  • Crumble in the sausage and cook until done.
  • Remove to the plate with the bacon.
  • Crumble in the beef and cook until done.
  • Remove to the plate with the bacon and sausage.
  • Remove all but 1 tablespoon of the drippings and add the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno and cook until just softened.
  • Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Stir in the dry mustard, celery seed and chili powder.
  • Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Add the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce and broth.
  • Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer.
  • Add Creole seasoning to taste.
  • Simmer 1 to 1 1/2 hours stirring every 30 minutes.
  • Serve with desired toppings.

Notes

Use regular sausage for a less-spicy version.

Nutrition

Calories: 391kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 883mg | Potassium: 628mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1050IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red
Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red

Stuffed Pasta Shells

Welcome to my version of the standard stuffed pasta shells. Glorious large pasta stuffed with tons and tons of ooey-gooey cheeses. Mushroom-laden sauce. No one is going away hungry after devouring some of this goodness. This makes a big batch, enough for a big get-together. I served these stuffed pasta shells with plenty of my gotta-have-it garlic bread. It is definitely the perfect combination. Ok, I threw in a green salad too to keep things on the healthy side. A bit.

Stuffed Pasta Shells

Spice It Up. Just A Bit.

For a kicked-up version use spicy Italian sausage. I did. And I might have slipped in a few good pinches of red pepper flake too.

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 slow cooker spaghetti and meatballs.

Stuffed Pasta Shells
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Stuffed Pasta Shells

No one is going away hungry after devouring some of this goodness. This makes a big batch, enough for a big get-together. 
Course Main
Cuisine Italian
Keyword stuffed pasta shells
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 334kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F.
  • Cook pasta per package instructions.
  • Drain well.
  • Meanwhile, cook sausage until done. Drain.
  • Combine the eggs, ricotta, parsley, salt, pepper and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  • Stuff mixture into shells (I used a cookie press, but you can also put the stuffing into a plastic bag, cut a corner off, and squeeze).
  • Place shells into a 9×13 baking dish that has been sprayed with non-stick spray.
  • In a large bowl, combine the pasta sauce, mushrooms, remaining cheese and sausage.
  • Pour over the pasta shells.
  • Bake for 45-60 minutes or until bubbly hot.

Notes

Also great with a little Pecorino-Romano cheese added.

Nutrition

Calories: 334kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 99mg | Sodium: 1216mg | Potassium: 219mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 448IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 429mg | 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)

Tater Tot Casserole

I am addicted to tater tots. I can live without fries or baked potatoes and even potato chips, but you cannot take away my tots. Most people like them with ketchup, but not me. I bake them up extra crispy and top them with butter. Yes, butter. Try it. And try this tater tot casserole.

Tater Tot Casserole

Surprisingly Delicious

It’s my love of tots that made me try this tater tot casserole, and I was actually happy I did. At first glance I worried that it would be bland. Let’s face it, cream of mushroom soup isn’t really packed with flavor sensations. So I made a few changes to the original recipe. We both enjoyed it. It’s easy to make and makes good leftovers (if you have any).

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 southwestern potato casserole.

Tater Tot Casserole
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Tater-Tot Casserole

Nothing can be easier than this casserole!
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword casserole, tater tots
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 653kcal
Author Based on Kraft’s original recipe

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ medium onion minced
  • 1 10 3/4 ounce condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ½ – 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
  • 1 cup frozen vegetables mixed or whatever is your favorite
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 pound tater tots frozen
  • Jalapeno slices to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 F. Spray a 2 quart baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and brown.
  • Add in the onion and cook 4-5 minutes or until starting to soften. Drain. Spoon into the baking dish.
  • Mix the soup, milk and Creole seasoning together in a small bowl. Pour over the meat mixture.
  • Spread the vegetables over the top.
  • Sprinkle with the cheese and then add a layer of tater tots.
  • Top with jalapeno slices.
  • Bake for 45 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.

Notes

Use pepperjack cheese for a little more heat.

Nutrition

Calories: 653kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 43g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 112mg | Sodium: 768mg | Potassium: 809mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 3403IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 273mg | 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)

Vegetable and Meatball Soup

I had pretty low expectations when I set out to make this vegetable and meatball soup. I was very pleasantly surprised in the end. It came out very tasty despite being incredibly easy to make. This isn’t some fru-fru dish here. You’re not going to spend hours in the kitchen prepping for it. It’s not that kind of a thing.

Easiest Soup Ever.

I’ll definitely make this vegetable and meatball soup again! It’s perfect on a night when I just don’t have a lot of time to throw dinner together, but still want a filling meal. I get my vegetables in every bite. Along with a little protein. And some carbohydrates. It’s truly dinner in a bowl!

NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine - Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14"x6"x3", Black
NutriChef Food Vacuum Sealer Machine – Automatic Air Sealing System for Dry & Moist Foods, LED Touch Controls, Includes Vacuum Bags, Hose & Wine Stopper, High Suction Power, 14″x6″x3″, Black

For another a-little-different meatball recipe, try my Hawaiian BBQ meatballs with fried rice.

Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Vegetable and Meatball Soup

This isn’t some fru-fru dish here. You’re not going to spend hours in the kitchen prepping for it. It’s not that kind of a thing.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword meatballs, soup, vegetable
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 286kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Better Homes and Gardens

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine beef broth, meatballs, beans, tomatoes, spices, and vegetables in a large pot or Dutch oven.
  • Bring to a boil.
  • Stir in the pasta and return to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to a simmer and continue simmering for 10 minutes or until the pasta is done.

Notes

Serve with a slice of warmed, crusty French bread.

Nutrition

Calories: 286kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 54mg | Sodium: 46mg | Potassium: 275mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red
Lodge ASAHH41 Silicone Assist Handle Holder, Red

Mexican Corn Soup

We don’t ever need an excuse to eat good ole sweet corn from My Dad’s Sweet Corn in nearby Tipton, Indiana. When it is at its peak in the summer we go to our local Binford farmer’s market and load up. We blanch it and freeze it for the winter time, when eating it reminds us of summer and warmer weather. That corn often finds its way into dishes like this Mexican corn soup. Packed with flavor, this is a great meal-in-a-bowl. Spicy and delicious, the corn is front and center. Like it should be.

Mexican Corn Soup

Corn Is The Star Of This Show

This Mexican corn soup from Ingrid Hoffman is a great way to showcase a good sweet corn. True, I strayed from the original recipe, but the end result was great nonetheless!

365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Low Sodium Chicken Broth, 32 Fl Oz
365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Low Sodium Chicken Broth, 32 Fl Oz

Also try my outstandly yummy southwestern turkey soup.

Mexican Corn Soup
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Mexican Corn Soup

This Mexican corn soup is a great way to showcase a good sweet corn. 
Course Main
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword corn, Mexican, soup
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 509kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Ingrid Hoffman

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place 1/2 of the corn, both tomatoes, half of the chicken broth and oregano into a blender.
  • Process until smooth.
  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add sausage and cook until browned.
  • Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.
  • Add the onion and cook until it is starting to soften.
  • Add the garlic and cook another minute.
  • Add the corn/tomato puree and the remaining corn.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and continue simmering for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the sausage back to the pan and stir.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the cream and half of the parsley.
  • Serve garnished with cheese crumbles and tortilla strips.

Notes

Substitute pepper jack for a little kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 509kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 92mg | Sodium: 1726mg | Potassium: 699mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1390IU | Vitamin C: 33mg | Calcium: 149mg | 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)