Category: Main Dishes

Philly Style Italian Hoagies

When we want a quick bite for lunch we grab a few Philly style Italian hoagies. They take no time at all to make and are absolutely packed with great flavor. And a bit of a kick. This is the perfect sandwich. Sometimes I  stick to the ‘original’, using fine deli meats and fru-fru cheese. And sometimes I just grab whatever is in the meat drawer. The key to this hoagie is the dressing.

Philly Style Italian Hoagies

Never Soggy. Always Delicious.

I often find myself making Philly style Italian hoagies for my wife’s lunch. It holds up well to bouncing around in a lunch cooler. To keep the bread from getting soggy I insulate the bread by making sure that the dressing and the spicy relish are in between the meat and cheese and not directly touching the bread itself. Boom, problem solved!

Cento Diced Hot Cherry Pepper (Hot) Hoagie Spread - 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)
Cento Diced Hot Cherry Pepper (Hot) Hoagie Spread – 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)

I also love topping this sandwich with spicy hot giardiniera. That’s a sandwich!

Also try my slow cooker cheesesteaks.

Philly Style Italian Hoagies
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5 from 1 vote

Philly Style Italian Hoagies

When we want a quick bite for lunch we grab a few Philly style Italian hoagies. They take no time at all to make and are absolutely packed with great flavor. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Italian, sandwich, submarine
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 1308kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Baker By Nature

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • ½ tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 hoagie rolls
  • 4 ounces prosciutto
  • 4 ounces capicola
  • 4 ounces genoa salami
  • 4 ounces hot soprassata salami
  • 4 ounces provolone cheese sliced thin
  • 1 large tomato sliced thin
  • 1 small onion sliced thin
  • ¼ cup iceberg lettuce shredded
  • ¼ cup hot pepper spread or relish

Instructions

  • Whisk together the vinegar and oregano in a small bowl.
  • Continue whisking while slowly adding the olive oil.
  • Slice the rolls horizontally and remove the bread from the center.
  • Spread half of the vinegar mix over the inside of the rolls.
  • Add the meats, cheese, onion, lettuce and pepper spread.
  • Drizzle with the remaining vinegar mix and serve.

Notes

The dressing is great on any sandwich.

Nutrition

Calories: 1308kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 69g | Fat: 94g | Saturated Fat: 36g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 217mg | Sodium: 5387mg | Potassium: 944mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 1427IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 497mg | Iron: 15mg

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)

Fried Shrimp Basket

The flavor of the shrimp in this fried shrimp basket is absolutely fantastic. The Gullah seasoning originates from the islands off South Carolina and is inspired by Creole tastes. It’s what makes these shrimp soooo very good. I served them in a basket with some homemade fries. Food is always better when served in a basket. I learned that long ago and this fried shrimp basket is proof.

Fried Shrimp Basket

Wonderfully Seasoned Shrimp

You’ll have plenty of leftover Gullah seasoning after making a fried shrimp basket. That’s a good thing. Save it for more shrimp or use it in any recipe that calls for Creole seasoning. It’s also great for sprinkling on the fries you’ll want to make with these shrimp. It’ll keep for a long time, just store it in an air-tight container until you are ready to use it.

Since it’s just the two of us, I like to use my Fry Daddy for frying these shrimp and well, anything fried! You can’t cook all of the shrimp for this recipe in one batch in the small fryer, but you can get them done in two.

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

I’m convinced that everything tastes better when it’s served in a basket. My roadside shrimp basket is further proof.

Also try my batter-fried shrimp.

Fried Shrimp Basket
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4 from 1 vote

Fried Shrimp Basket

Wonderfully-spiced shrimp perfect with a hot-out-of-the fryer fries!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 333kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Kardea Brown

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Gullah Seasoning (makes more than you'll need)

For the shrimp

Instructions

For the Gullah Seasoning

  • Place all ingredients into a bowl and whisk to combine.
  • Transfer to a resealable airtight container until ready to use.

For the shrimp

  • Heat 3" of oil to 350 F in a deep fryer or Dutch oven.
  • Place a wire rack over a baking sheet.
  • In one bowl (or a pie pan) combine the flour and 1 1/2 tablespoons of the Gullah seasoning.
  • In another bowl (or a pie pan) place the buttermilk.
  • Working in batches, dip the shrimp first in the buttermilk, then in the flour. Coat completely then shake off any excess. Place on the wire rack.
  • Place a wire rack over another baking sheet.
  • Fry the shrimp until golden brown, 1-2 minutes per side.
  • Remove to the rack to drain.
  • Serve immediately with hot fries.

Notes

The seasoning is great for burgers, too.

Nutrition

Calories: 333kcal | Carbohydrates: 66g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 5306mg | Potassium: 364mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 732IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 231mg | Iron: 9mg

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

Rouladen and Knödel

I’m very, very biased when it comes to rouladen and knödel. I’m quite sure that my mom’s are the best. I tried to duplicate hers as best I could, and boy, were they ever fantastic, but they still aren’t mom’s. I’m ok with that. Fantastic tender beef stuffed with a mixture of pickles, mustard, bacon and onion. Cooked and then served with a fantastic pan gravy made from the yum-yums left in the pan. The knödel are spatzle-like. Cold mashed potatoes formed into bowls, stuffed with crunchy croutons, simmered in water. Served with more of the gravy from rouladen. Delicious!

Rouladen and Knödel

Thinner Is Better

I used a top round that was already sliced. I pounded it thinner using my trusty meat pounder. Next time I’ll probably opt to pick up a whole top round and slice it myself. That’ll give me a bit more control over how the meat comes out. Even still, the rouladen were sooooo tasty good. For only my second time making rouladen and knödel, I was very happy!

Be Gentle With The Knödels

This was my first time making knödels from scratch. You can find packets of mix in the grocery store that make the process much easier and still come out fantastic. I decided to give making them myself a shot. They are actually very easy to make. My only advice is to be very, very careful removing them from the pot after they’ve simmered. They really, really want to fall apart. Be gentle and slow and they’ll come out great.

Swify Spider Strainer Set of 3 Asian Strainer Ladle Stainless Steel Wire Skimmer Spoon with Handle for Kitchen Frying Food, Pasta, Spaghetti, Noodle-30.5cm, 32cm, 35cm
Swify Spider Strainer Set of 3 Asian Strainer Ladle Stainless Steel Wire Skimmer Spoon with Handle for Kitchen Frying Food, Pasta, Spaghetti, Noodle-30.5cm, 32cm, 35cm

Also try my delicious German classic, warm potato salad.

Rouladen and Knödel
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Rouladen and Knödel

I’m very, very biased when it comes to rouladen and knödels. I’m quite sure that my mom’s are the best.
Course Main
Cuisine German
Keyword knodel, rouladen
Prep Time 1 day
Cook Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 1 day 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 621kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Rouladen

For the Knödel

Instructions

For the Rouladen

  • Cook the bacon in a large skillet until done but not crispy. Remove and let drain and cool on paper towel.
  • Lay the beef slices out on a flat surface and season well with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Squirt one side of the meat with the yellow mustard. Don’t be shy with it. Spread out evenly.
  • Divide the onion, pickles and cooked bacon between the meat slices.
  • Roll meat up, securing with toothpicks.
  • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the rouladen and brown on all sides. Remove to a plate.
  • Add 2 cups of water to the skillet and stir.
  • Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.
  • Add the rouladen back to the skillet. Cover and continue simmering for 1 1/2 hours.
  • Mix together 2 tablespoons of water and the cornstarch until smooth.
  • Remove rouladen.
  • Whisk in the cornstarch mixture until thickened.
  • Whisk in the sour cream until smooth.
  • Return the rouladen to the pan. Carefully remove the toothpicks, coat with the gravy and serve.

For the Knödel

  • Place potatoes in a large pot of boiling salted water.
  • Cook until tender, about 30 minutes.
  • Remove from water and let cool completely then refrigerate overnight.
  • Rice or mash the potatoes and transfer to a large bowl.
  • Add 1 cup of the flour, a pinch or two of salt and the eggs.
  • Mix well and press to form 2″ balls. If the potatoes don’t hold together add a bit more flour.
  • Place 2-3 croutons in the middle of the potato balls and lower into a pot of simmering, salted water. Simmer for 20 minutes.
  • Carefully remove from water using a slotted spoon and serve immediately.

Notes

The potatoes need to be cooked the day before you are preparing the meal so that they set up and get cold.

Nutrition

Calories: 621kcal | Carbohydrates: 85g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 134mg | Sodium: 759mg | Potassium: 1198mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 452IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 96mg | 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)

Cowboy Pasta

It was a cold windy day. I do mean windy, too. Every time I looked out the window I saw more and more of our neighbor’s Christmas decorations in our yard. That meant it was time for some stick-to-your-ribs comfort food. Nothing fancy, just something to warm me up before I went outside to rescue the inflatable Santa. But not fancy doesn’t mean not flavorful! This cowboy pasta is good tasty stuff. Cheesy shells, super-flavorful beans, tomatoes and chiles, and ground beef all make for a delicious dish. This so hit the spot and made me forget about the weather outside.

Cowboy Pasta

Shake Off Those Winter Blues

This cowboy pasta definitely hit the spot on a cold day. You can choose your heat level (or not) by using spicy (or not) Rotel. I went with the mild. The Ranch beans have such great flavor by themselves, I didn’t want to drown them out by using super-hot Rotel. It’s your call, it’ll be great either way.

While I’m on the subject of Ranch-style beans…. I love them. They are the tastiest beans ever. I keep them on hand and often substitute them in dishes that call for ‘regular’ canned beans.

Ranch Style Canned Pinto Beans, Real Western Flavor, 15 oz. (Pack of 12)
Ranch Style Canned Pinto Beans, Real Western Flavor, 15 oz. (Pack of 12)

Also try my copycat Pizza Hut meaty marinara!

Cowboy Pasta
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4.17 from 6 votes

Cowboy Pasta

These cowboy beans definitely hit the spot on a cold day.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword comfort food
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 257kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Crumble the beef into a large pot over medium-high heat.
  • Season with salt and pepper and brown until cooked.
  • Drain.
  • Stir in the beans and tomatoes.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low and keep warm while cooking the pasta.
  • Cook the shells & cheese according to the package.
  • Add to the meat mixture and stir.
  • Add more salt and pepper to taste, if desired, and stir.
  • Cook another 5 minutes to heat thoroughly.
  • Serve.

Notes

Serve topped with a little finely shredded cheddar for more delicious cheesiness!

Nutrition

Calories: 257kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 815mg | Potassium: 728mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 73IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 59mg | 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)

Mushroom and Onion Baked Potatoes

Loaded baked potatoes are something I’ve had a love affair with ever since my college days. They were a great way to get a cheap, and still delicious, dinner. Yep, I love a baked potato as a meal. I don’t need anything else. These mushroom and onion baked potatoes are great as either a main dish or a side. They aren’t shy on the mushrooms. You won’t go searching for them. You’re going to get plenty in each and every bite. Cooked perfectly, this is a favorite potato of mine!

Mushroom and Onion Baked Potatoes

The Topping Full Of Goodness!

The bigger the potatoes you use for your mushroom and onion baked potatoes, the more of the yummy mushroom and onion mixture you can pack inside. But, on the off chance you end up with leftover stuffing, you cannot go wrong with using it as a topping for grilled burgers. It’s fantastic on burgers. And it’s great in omelets too! So make extra, you’ll love it!

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

Whether you cook your potatoes in the oven or on a grill, potato nails help ensure they cook nice and evenly! And they look kinda cool too!

Also try my cheesy broccoli baked potatoes.

Mushroom and Onion Baked Potatoes
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Mushroom and Onion Baked Potatoes

Make extra mushroom mixture for topping burgers!
Course Main or Side
Cuisine American
Keyword baked, potatoes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings 4
Calories 360kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Small Town Woman

Equipment

Ingredients

For the potatoes

For the mushroom mixture

Instructions

For the potatoes

  • Preheat oven to 400 F
  • Pierce each potato 4 times with a sharp knife.
  • Brush potatoes with oil.
  • Sprinkle some salt onto a plate and roll the potatoes in the salt.
  • Place potatoes directly on the oven center rack. You might want to put a baking sheet lined with foil beneath them to catch any drippings.
  • Bake until potatoes are done (210 F internal temperature, or tender all the way through when poked with a knife), 40-60 minutes depending on their size. You can also test for doneness by squeezing the potatoes (with potholders on). If they give easily, they are done.
  • When ready to serve, poke the tops of the potatoes with a fork in cross pattern (i.e. from edge-to-edge and top-to-bottom). Pretend you are tracing the lines you would make if cutting the potatoes with a knife. Then, grab the potatoes from the ends and squeeze. The potatoes will open up perfectly. Fluff with the fork before adding the mushroom mixture.
  • Top with cheese if desired.
  • Place the potatoes under the broiler for a minute or two if you want to melt and toast the cheese.

For the mushroom mixture

  • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Stir in the Worcestershire sauce.
  • Add the mushrooms and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes, stirring gently on occasion.
  • Add the onions and stir.
  • Cook another 5 minutes, stirring gently on occasion, until the onions are just softened.
  • Reduce heat to low.
  • Add the garlic and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Stir and cook another 2-3 minutes or until the garlic is cooked.
  • Remove from heat until ready to use.

Notes

The mushroom and onion mixture is also great on hamburgers!

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 153mg | Potassium: 2090mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 30IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 94mg | 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)

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.

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 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.

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

The Best Vegetable Soup

I made some smoked ribs once that I called the ‘best’. Then a week later I found a new technique that was really the ‘best’. So I made a rule that I’d not call anything the ‘best’. Well, in a blatant violation of that rule, this is the best vegetable soup. Why did I commit such a flagrant violation? Because I’m not going to ever look for another vegetable soup recipe. I don’t need to. I can stop after this one. Packed with vegetables, easy to make (ok, there’s some chopping involved, but I consider that cook therapy), and oh so delicious, it’s a real winner. And it makes a really big batch. Plenty for a crowd, and great for freezing for later.

The Best Vegetable Soup

Whatever Veggies You Have, Toss Them In!

You can omit any vegetables you can’t find or don’t have on hand. This recipe for the best vegetable soup is pretty forgiving. More is better, though, so if you have to leave something out try to find something else that can take its place.

Don’t be shocked about the amount of dried basil. It might seem like a lot, but this recipe makes a LOT of soup. I don’t recommend cheating on the basil. Add the full amount.

I like to use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make this soup 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

Also try my marinated vegetable salad.

The Best Vegetable Soup
Print Pin
2 from 2 votes

The Best Vegetable Soup

Don't be shocked about the amount of dried basil. It might seem like a lot, but this recipe makes a LOT of soup.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword soup, vegetable
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Servings 10
Calories 209kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Cozy Country Living

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Working one vegetable at a time, add to the pot and sauté for a minute, stirring. Then add the next vegetable, continuing until you've added everything up to the water.
  • Stir in the water, tomato paste, bay leaves, basil, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes (you can leave them out if you want).
  • Cover. Reduce the heat to a slow simmer and cook 2 1/2 – 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Season with salt and pepper. Stir and serve.

Notes

Serve with a nice warm, crusty piece of French bread.

Nutrition

Calories: 209kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 872mg | Potassium: 1247mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 7077IU | Vitamin C: 121mg | Calcium: 233mg | Iron: 8mg

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)

Skillet Sausage Mac and Cheese

It was a very cold few days here in Indianapolis. Not ‘brrrr’ cold but ‘brrr brrr’ cold, and that’s cold. That meant time for a good ole pot of stick-to-your-ribs comfort food. Time for some skillet sausage mac and cheese. Easy to make, a bowl of this will warm you to your cockles. I’m not sure what those are, but they’ll be warm! This makes a good-sized batch, perfect for lunches or dinner. Or both.

Skillet Sausage Mac and Cheese

The Perfect Comfort Food

When I make this skillet sausage mac and cheese again (and it’ll be soon, because winters here are long) I might use ground Italian sausage instead. Or I might add a good pinch or two of red pepper flake for a bit of kick. I might even use a different pasta. No matter what I do, though, it’ll still be a great dish.

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 pepperoni pizza mac and cheese.

Skillet Sausage Mac and Cheese
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Skillet Sausage Mac and Cheese

Substitute ground Italian sausage for a nice twist!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, skillet
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 435kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Julia’s Album

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork sausage
  • 2 green bell peppers diced
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 18 ounces marinara sauce
  • 18 ounces water plus maybe more
  • â…“ cup half and half
  • â…“ cup Mozzarella cheese shredded

Instructions

  • Crumble the sausage into a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Cook until browned, breaking up any chunks as they cook.
  • Drain off any fat.
  • Add the peppers, macaroni, sauce and water.
  • Stir and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to simmer and cover.
  • Cook for 20 minutes until the pasta is tender, stirring often. Add more water if needed.
  • Stir in the half and half and top with the cheese.
  • Cover and remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted.

Notes

Use spicy sausage for a little kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 435kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 64mg | Sodium: 979mg | Potassium: 645mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 661IU | Vitamin C: 38mg | Calcium: 78mg | 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)

Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice

I have to admit it, I was very highly skeptical when it came time to make this simple cauliflower fried rice. My wife wanted a lower carbohydrate dish she could take for her lunches, and this is the one she picked. Well, my skepticism was unfounded, because it’s not just good, it’s great! By golly, I thought I was eating fried rice!

Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice

It’s Magic!

Making the ‘rice’ is easy. Just chop cauliflower florets fine, until they start to look like rice grains. A quick fry in hot oil, and boom! Cauliflower rice! Great as a side dish, simple cauliflower fried rice can be turned into a main dish in no time by adding cooked chicken.

I went light on the sesame oil and used the full amount of soy sauce.

Kikkoman Japan Made Soy Sauce, 33.8 Ounce
Kikkoman Japan Made Soy Sauce, 33.8 Ounce

Also try my Cajun shrimp fried rice.

Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice

I have to admit it, I was very highly skeptical when it came time to make this simple cauliflower fried rice. Well, my skepticism was unfounded, because it’s not just good, it’s great!
Course Main or Side
Cuisine Asian-Inspired
Keyword cauliflower, fried rice
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 245kcal
Author Sweet Peas and Saffron

Equipment

Ingredients

  • ½ head cauliflower
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil divided
  • 4 eggs beaten
  • kosher salt
  • ground black pepper
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 cups carrots finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons ginger grated
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup peas frozen
  • 2 cups chicken cooked, cooled, chopped (if serving as a main dish)
  • ¼ cup soy sauce

For serving

Instructions

  • Rough chop the cauliflower and place into a food processor.
  • Pulse a few times until the cauliflower looks like tiny pieces of rice. Do not over process.
  • Add a tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the cauliflower and saute for 5-10 minutes or until tender. Remove to a plate.
  • Wipe the skillet clean and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
  • Add the eggs to the skillet, season and cook, stirring scramble for 3-5 minutes or until eggs are cooked through.
  • Transfer eggs to a plate. Wipe the pan clean.
  • Add the second tablespoon of sesame oil to the skillet.
  • Add the onion and carrots, cooking for 5 or so minutes, until softened.
  • Add the garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
  • Add the riced cauliflower, frozen peas and diced chicken (if using) to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes or until cauliflower rice is cooked through, but still is a bit crunchy.
  • Add the egg back to the skillet, breaking it up as you stir.
  • Add the soy sauce and stir.
  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds. green onion and cashews to garnish.

Notes

You can substitute peanuts for the cashews.

Nutrition

Calories: 245kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 123mg | Sodium: 663mg | Potassium: 546mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 7522IU | Vitamin C: 38mg | Calcium: 77mg | 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)

Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice

One of my wife’s favorite dishes is fried rice. She requests it often. I thought it was time to throw a curve ball and make a little twist, on the classic that she loves so much. Failure was not an option, because messing with a long-time favorite is risky business. I dove in and made Cajun shrimp fried rice. A fantastic variation on the classic, this dish contains wonderfully spicy shrimp in a traditional rice mixture. This was a major hit. My wife loved it!

Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice

You Could Add Stuff… Or Not.

This Cajun shrimp fried rice was perfect just as it was. I didn’t really feel a need to mess with it. Oh, I thought well, I could add some roasted peanuts or cashews. Or more sesame oil. Yeah, I could’ve done that. But I might’ve gotten looks. Best to make it just as it’s written, because it’s great!

Kikkoman Japan Made Soy Sauce, 33.8 Ounce
Kikkoman Japan Made Soy Sauce, 33.8 Ounce

Also try my cauliflower fried rice.

Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice

This Cajun shrimp fried rice was perfect just as it was. I didn't really feel a need to mess with it.
Course Main
Cuisine Cajun
Keyword Cajun, fried rice
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 153kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Cook the rice per package instructions. Remove from heat and keep covered when done.
  • Place the shrimp into a medium bowl. Add the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne and salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat well.
  • Add a splash of oil to a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the eggs and cook, whisking or stirring as they cook, 1-2 minutes. Remove to a plate.
  • Increase heat to high and add the sesame oil.
  • Add the onion, bell pepper, and green onion whites. Cook 1-2 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and pepper flakes and cook another minute.
  • Add the shrimp and cook until no longer translucent, tossing constantly, 2-3 minutes.
  • Add rice. Stir then let cook 2-3 minutes to brown.
  • Add in the egg, soy sauce and fish sauce. Stirring constantly, cook another 2 minutes.
  • Serve top with the chopped green onion tops.

Notes

Add a few roasted peanuts for a little crunch.

Nutrition

Calories: 153kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 442mg | Potassium: 164mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 659IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 31mg | 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)