Category: Main Dishes

Sloppy Joe French Bread Pizza

I was addicted to Sloppy Joes as a kid. And I’m still addicted as an ‘adult’. I don’t walk by the Sloppy Joe cans or mixes at the grocery store and think, “kids stuff”. No, I think to myself, “self, that sounds fantastic.”. Making Sloppy Joes at home is about as easy as it can get, and this recipe here for using it to make Sloppy Joe French bread pizza takes that old classic and makes it truly fantastic. I could eat a scary amount of this pizza.

As a kid I’d go the playground after mom would make me Sloppy Joes for lunch. As an adult I… uh… well, I don’t do that. I might work out in the yard later but right now I’m going to sit back and recall my yummy pizza.

Sloppy Joe French Bread Pizza

Pizza Perfection

What can I say about this recipe for Sloppy Joe French bread pizza? Make it. Just go make it. That’s all. Ok, don’t overcook the onion and peppers. That’s the only thing I can come up with. It’s perfect as it is. I wouldn’t change a thing about it. I loved Sloppy Joes as a kid and I still love those same flavors today.

Lea & Perrins The Original Worcestershire Sauce (10 fl oz Bottle)
Lea & Perrins The Original Worcestershire Sauce (10 fl oz Bottle)

Also try my quick fix French bread pizza.

Sloppy Joe French Bread Pizza
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5 from 1 vote

Sloppy Joe French Bread Pizza

Making Sloppy Joes at home is about as easy as it can get, and this recipe here for using it to make French bread pizza takes that old classic and makes it truly fantastic. I could eat a scary amount of this pizza.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword French bread, pizza
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 556kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Spicy Southern Kitchen

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joe mixture

For the French bread pizza

  • 1 loaf French bread cut in half lengthwise
  • 1 ½ cups Colby Jack cheese shredded

Instructions

For the Sloppy Joe mixture

  • Crumble the ground beef into a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook until it just starts to brown. Drain off any excess grease.
  • Add the onion and pepper and stir. Cook until the beef is completely done and the vegetables just start to soften. You want them to still have a little crunch to them.
  • Add the remaining Sloppy Joe mixture ingredients. Stir. If the mixture is too dry add a small amount of water.
  • Turn off the heat and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes.

For the French bread pizza

  • Preheat oven to 350 F.
  • Place the bread on a large baking sheet lined with foil.
  • Divide the Sloppy Joe mixture between the bread halves. It's not time to be shy. You want it thick and you want it crust-to-crust.
  • Sprinkle with the cheese.
  • Bake for about 15 minutes or until the bread starts to brown and is lightly crunchy. The cheese should be nice and melted.
  • Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes then slice and serve.

Notes

You can substitute your favorite cheese for the Colby.

Nutrition

Calories: 556kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 895mg | Potassium: 466mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 498IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 283mg | 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)

Christmas Stocking Pizzas

True story: If you leave out Christmas stocking pizzas for Santa Claus you’ll get two times as many presents than you would if you leave out just milk and cookies! Trust me on this! Santa will appreciate your efforts and reward you nicely. These little pizzas make for a great holiday-time project. They’re quite easy to make, and rather fun to boot. It’s an excellent treat for young and old alike!

Fun To Make… And Eat!

You can make your Christmas stocking pizzas with whatever toppings you like, of course. We liked how the mini pepperoni and the Italian sausage ones looked. And tasted. They didn’t last, that’s for sure. You want to use smaller-sized toppings since the pizzas aren’t that large!

You’ll need a template to make the pizzas. Ours is just over 5″ tall when printed. Just download the picture below and print it. If you want to make smaller (or bigger) pizzas just size the graphic in your favorite editing software.

Christmas stocking

Happy Holidays!

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. Get the real 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
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4 from 1 vote

Christmas Stocking Pizzas

If you leave out Christmas stocking pizzas for Santa Claus you'll get two times as many presents than you would if you leave out just milk and cookies!
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Christmas, pizza
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 5
Calories 223kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pre-made pizza dough If frozen defrost overnight in the fridge then let come to room temperature on the countertop for 2 hours before using.
  • pizza sauce
  • mozzarella cheese shredded
  • mini pepperonis
  • Italian sausage Cooked and crumbled. If using links remove from casings before cooking. I like to pulse my cooked sausage in a food processor a few times to get it nice and finely crumbled.

Instructions

  • Preheat oven per package instructions. Prepare 2 large baking sheets, if required (some pre-made doughs require that you first grease the pans).
  • Print out the stocking template and cut around the edges.
  • Roll dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
  • Place the template onto the dough and cut around the edges. We found that a sharp-tipped knife or kitchen scissors worked best.
  • Transfer the dough to a baking pan. Keep making stockings until you're out of dough. We were able to get 5 out of a 1 pound dough but that took some thinking as we moved the pattern around. You can easily get 4 stockings without much worry.
  • Add toppings as desired. For a few we used sauce, mini pepperoni and then cheese all over. For the rest we used sauce and sausage, with cheese just at the top.
  • Bake until the dough is lightly browned and the cheese is bubbly.
  • Remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

These are fun. You gotta make them at least once!

Nutrition

Calories: 223kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 656mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | 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)

Fat Johnny’s Goulash

It’s getting cold outside. And that means it’s time for stick-to-your-ribs good food. Like Fat Johnny’s goulash. Simple ingredients. Easy to prepare. And delicious results. And I do mean delicious. Make a double batch. You’ll love it so much you won’t even notice how cold it is. This is the tastiest goulash I’ve ever had. I’ll never need a recipe for any other kind.

Fat Johnny's Goulash

Don’t Mess With Perfection

I almost changed a few things when I made this. Like substituting a pound of Italian sausage for some of the ground beef. Like maybe using some different pasta. Wisely, my wife talked me out of messing with perfection and I followed the recipe to a ‘T’. I admit it, she was right. This time. (Don’t tell her I said that!)

This recipe comes from Chez John, aka Fat Johnny. Check out Chez John’s blog. It’s full of fantastic dishes like his Fat Johnny’s goulash plus countless many, many others. Heck, it’s too cold to go outside, best sit inside where it’s warm and look at food porn!

Don’t let the final simmer go too long. You want the pasta to just be done.

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

What would be good with this dish? Some of Fat Johnny’s cheesy cornbread, that’s what!

Fat Johnny's Goulash
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5 from 1 vote

Fat Johnny’s Goulash

It’s getting cold outside. And that means it’s time for stick-to-your-ribs good food. Like Fat Johnny’s goulash!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword goulash
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 322kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Chez John

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta per package instructions and drain well.
  • Brown the ground beef in a Dutch oven or medium pot.
  • Add the onion, peppers and garlic.
  • Add salt, pepper to taste along with the Italian seasoning.
  • Stir and cook for 5 minutes.
  • Add the pasta sauce and bring to a simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the pasta and simmer another 5 minutes.
  • Serve.

Notes

Even better the next day!

Nutrition

Calories: 322kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 64mg | Sodium: 64mg | Potassium: 337mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 49IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Indiana Chili

When I first moved to the mid-west I had no clue what Indiana chili was. And when I found out what it was, I was confused. Isn’t pasta in chili sorta kinda the same as spaghetti meat sauce? Well, no, no it’s not. It’s actually pretty darned good. I admit it, I’ve come around to the idea and on a cold, windy winter day, it’s the perfect dish for warming you up and recharging you. Hey, you need all the energy you can get when shoveling your driveway!

Indiana Chili

The Cincinnati Version

You can make this Indiana chili Cincinnati-ish by adding a pinch of cinnamon. That was another twist that was new to me when I moved here. Adding cinnamon to a chili is another thing that has grown on me. It has to be subtle, but I love the flavor in a great chili like this one.

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

Speaking of Cincinnati (and the surrounding areas), stop by a Skyline Chili when you’re in the area and order some Indiana chili. They do know how to make chili!

Also try my Texas-style chili. It’s definitely a different take on chili than this mid-west favorite!

Indiana Chili
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5 from 1 vote

Indiana Chili

You can make this Indiana chili Cincinnati-ish by adding a pinch of cinnamon. That was another twist that was new to me when I moved here. Adding cinnamon to a chili is another thing that has grown on me.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chili
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 1557kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Season the ground beef with salt and pepper.
  • Brown in a large pot or Dutch oven.
  • Add the onion and cook until just softened.
  • Drain and remove to a bowl.
  • Add the beans, tomato sauce and 4 cans of water to the large pot or Dutch oven.
  • Add the chili seasoning, chili powder, sugar, and pepper flakes.
  • Stir and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Bring to a boil.
  • Add the browned ground beef and onion. Stir.
  • Bring to a slow boil and let simmer 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
  • Meanwhile, cook the pasta to al dente (generally 2 minutes less than the time stated on the box). Drain.
  • Once the chili is done stir in the pasta and serve.

Notes

Serve with your favorite chili toppings.

Nutrition

Calories: 1557kcal | Carbohydrates: 255g | Protein: 83g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 14198mg | Potassium: 9177mg | Fiber: 61g | Sugar: 111g | Vitamin A: 6514IU | Vitamin C: 118mg | Calcium: 501mg | Iron: 34mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Mushroom Ravioli

My wife and I both enjoyed this simple mushroom ravioli dish so much that we ended up making it three times in one week. I picked up a few packages of fresh cheese-filled ravioli plus a few other fresh ingredients at the store and in no time we had a great dinner.

You could use any ravioli you like. I felt that cheese-filled worked best with the mushrooms, spinach and (a favorite) sun-dried tomatoes. We liked a bit of freshly grated Parmesan sprinkled over the tops just before serving. You can leave that out.

Mushroom Ravioli

Easy. And Delicious.

You definitely don’t want to overcook the ravioli. Take them out of the water a minute before the package tells you too. They will finish cooking in the pan later. These mushroom ravioli are really easy to make and turn out absolutely delicious. They’re a great easy dinner.

This recipe is also great with tortellini or just ‘plain’ pasta.

Cento Sun Dried Tomatoes, 10 Ounce
Cento Sun Dried Tomatoes, 10 Ounce

The sun-dried tomatoes are the star of this show.

Mushroom Ravioli
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4.50 from 2 votes

Mushroom Ravioli

We enjoyed this simple mushroom ravioli dish so much that we ended up making it three times in one week. I picked up a few packages of fresh cheese-filled ravioli plus a few other fresh ingredients at the store and in no time we had a great dinner.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword mushroom, ravioli
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 601kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Julia’s Album

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Cook ravioli until just barely done, a minute less than the package instructions.
  • Drain well.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the sun-dried tomatoes and mushrooms.
  • Cook for 2 minutes, stirring often.
  • Add the spinach, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
  • Stir and keep stirring until the spinach has wilted completely.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low.
  • Add in the ravioli and remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Stir gently.
  • Cook until the ravioli is done.
  • Season with salt and pepper and serve.

Notes

You can use any fresh ravioli you like in this dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 601kcal | Carbohydrates: 79g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 77mg | Sodium: 1168mg | Potassium: 1622mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 6888IU | Vitamin C: 32mg | Calcium: 138mg | Iron: 19mg

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)

Celery and Cheddar Soup

Sometimes, I just want something easy, something hassle-free, for a nice lunch on a cold day. No troubles, but flavorful. This celery and cheddar soup takes only a few minutes to put together, and just a few hours to cook in a slow cooker. When it’s done, you get to enjoy a creamy, smooth cheesy soup that has a wonderful hint of celery. This soup does not skimp on flavor. It looks deceptively fancy, but it’s so easy to make.

Celery and Cheddar Soup

Use Different Peppers For Different Flavors

The only change I’d make to this celery and cheddar soup would be to substitute a 4 ounce jar of pimentos (drained) for the red bell pepper. Sometimes in winter good bell peppers can be hard to find. Pimentos (or chopped jarred roasted red peppers) make for a great substitute. I also like to use roasted red peppers as a substitute. They come in jars and can be found near the pickles in the grocery store.

Every time I make a recipe that calls for shredded cheese I remember how happy I am that I bought a cheese grater/shredder. No more of that pre-shredded stuff for me. It doesn’t melt right.

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 also make this soup on the stovetop. Just bring to a slow simmer and cook, stirring often, for 30 minutes.

Also try my homemade creamy cheddar soup.

Celery and Cheddar Soup
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5 from 1 vote

Celery and Cheddar Soup

This celery and cheddar soup takes only a few minutes to put together, and just a few hours to cook in a slow cooker. When it’s done, you get to enjoy a creamy, smooth cheesy soup that has a wonderful hint of celery. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword celery, cheddar, soup
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 317kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all but the half and half and green onion into a slow cooker.
  • Cover and cook on low for 2 hours.
  • Stir in the half and half and heat another 30 minutes.
  • Serve garnished with green onion.

Notes

For a spicier version, cut back on the cheddar and add a little pepper jack cheese instead.

Nutrition

Calories: 317kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 753mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1489IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 464mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 6 Count
Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, Regular (Fits 3-8 Quarts), 6 Count

Copycat KFC Chicken Nuggets

I admit, I’ve never had the chicken nuggets from Kentucky Fried Chicken. I’ve always been more of a give-me-a-bucket-of-crispy-fried-chicken kind of guy. I have been missing out all of these years if this copycat KFC chicken nuggets are even remotely the same as the original. I mean seriously, they’re great. Which begs the question: how many nuggets could you order in the drive-thru before they started to look at you in a strange way? With these little yummies over-indulging is expected.

Copycat KFC Chicken Nuggets

Great Flavor In The Perfect Size

I guess if you were making copycat KFC chicken nuggets for kids you might leave out the cayenne. I could barely detect it. It was there, enough to add flavor and maybe a hint of spiciness, but certainly not enough to burn or make my eyes water. Heck, for my tastes I’ll probably add more next time!

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 KFC bean salad.

Copycat KFC Chicken Nuggets
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3.20 from 5 votes

Copycat KFC Chicken Nuggets

These nuggets are seriously great. Which begs the question: how many nuggets could you order in the drive-thru before they started to look at you in a strange way?
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chicken nuggets, copycat, KFC
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 321kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from My Bizzy Kitchen

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oil to 350 F.
  • In a small bowl or pie plate, whisk together the flours, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne and baking powder.
  • In another small bowl or pie plate, whisk together the egg, milk and hot sauce.
  • Working in batches, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, then into the flour mixture, and back into the egg mixture and again the flour mixture. Double dipping will get you that fantastic crunchy coating.
  • Fry for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack-lined baking sheet to drain and cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Or sauces.

Nutrition

Calories: 321kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 169mg | Sodium: 1319mg | Potassium: 587mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 527IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 182mg | Iron: 2mg

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)

Cajun Fried Chicken Sandwich

Well, here we go again. Another dish that results in my tossing any semblance of self control right out of the window. This Cajun fried chicken sandwich is absolutely packed with flavor. The chicken is oh-my tender, juicy and even has just a bit of a kick. This is the kind of sandwich where you close your eyes before taking each bite. Only one thing matters, and that’s getting these yummies into your mouth. No need to look. Just take a bite! And another!

Cajun Fried Chicken Sandwich

Perfect, Every Single Bite

I tend to use boneless skinless chicken thighs when I make Cajun fried chicken sandwiches. You could use boneless skinless chicken breasts, if you desire. I just like the additional flavor from the thighs. Either way, make sure you pound them out and nice and thin, and more importantly, keep the meat the same thickness throughout. If you don’t it won’t cook as consistently and … it’ll look weird.

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 Buffalo chicken sandwiches and my spicy fried chicken sandwich. In a hurry? My quick fix BBQ chicken sandwiches can be made in no time.

Cajun Fried Chicken Sandwich
Print Pin
5 from 2 votes

Cajun Fried Chicken Sandwich

This Cajun fried chicken sandwich is absolutely packed with flavor. The chicken is oh-my tender, juicy and even has just a bit of a kick.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Cajun, chicken, chicken sandwiches, crispy, deep-fried
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 hours 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 3685kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the brine

For the batter

For the slaw

  • 1 12 ounce coleslaw with carrots
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • ¼ sweet onion minced
  • 1 jalapeno seeded, diced
  • ¼ cup Ranch dressing

For the sandwiches

Instructions

For the brine

  • Trim an excess fat from the chicken. Pound each piece flat. I like to put them in a one gallon baggie and then pound them so the chicken doesn't splatter.
  • Whisk together the buttermilk, dressing, and seasoning. Pour into a large resealable container. Add the chicken and seal.
  • Refrigerate overnight.

For the slaw

  • Combine all but the dressing in a large bowl.
  • Drizzle dressing over the top of the slaw and stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to make the sandwiches,

For the batter

  • Heat 3" of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or heat a deep fryer filled with oil to 375 F.
  • Whisk together the batter ingredients in a pie pan or shallow bowl.
  • Remove chicken from the brine and shake off any excess. Transfer to the batter mixture and coat well, turning to get all sides.
  • Place chicken in the oil and fry until internal temperature is 160-165 F, turning once. If you pounded the chicken very thin it won't take long to cook, 2-3 minutes per side. The coating will turn a lovely golden brown when it's done.
  • Remove pieces to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.

For the sandwiches

  • Toast the buns if you wish.
  • Add a piece of chicken to each bun and top with plenty of the slaw and few pickle slices.

Notes

These are also great without the slaw. Just add your favorite condiments.

Nutrition

Calories: 3685kcal | Carbohydrates: 324g | Protein: 152g | Fat: 201g | Saturated Fat: 41g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 581mg | Sodium: 16342mg | Potassium: 4005mg | Fiber: 30g | Sugar: 65g | Vitamin A: 9919IU | Vitamin C: 59mg | Calcium: 1825mg | Iron: 27mg

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

Poor Man’s Lobster Roll

I dream about lobster rolls. Real ones. Loaded with lobster. I’ll take them with or without mayonnaise. My poor man’s lobster roll is not the real thing. It’s not supposed to be. But it is supposed to get as close to the flavor of the real thing without spending a lot of money. And for me, it works.

Poor Man's Lobster Roll

A Great Substitute For The Real Thing

My poor man’s lobster roll is enough to get me by until I can head to Caplinger’s Fresh Catch here in Indianapolis for a fresh lobster roll. But I can enjoy my imitation version without shame. I don’t even have to close the drapes so no one notices that I’m using imitation lobster! Heck, it’s tasty!

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)

Did you know that in some parts of the US McDonald’s has a lobster roll on their menu? Yep. So I made a copycat of that too!

Also try my copycat of Golden Corral’s crab salad.

Poor Man's Lobster Roll
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5 from 1 vote

Poor Man’s Lobster Roll

I dream about lobster rolls. Real ones. Loaded with lobster. I’ll take them with or without mayonnaise. My poor man’s lobster roll is not the real thing. It’s not supposed to be.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword imitation lobster, sandwich
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 473kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces imitation lobster chunky style
  • 1 teaspoon dried tarragon or more, to taste, crushed
  • 1 stalk celery diced
  • 1 medium lemon halved
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise more or less, to taste
  • Kosher salt
  • ground black pepper
  • 2 hot dog rolls split-top are best
  • ½ tablespoon salted butter melted
  • ½ tablespoon green onion sliced, for garnish

Instructions

  • Gently mix the lobster, tarragon, celery, juice of half of the lemon, mayonnaise together in a bowl.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir.
  • Brush the outside of the rolls with the butter and place under the broiler or into 350 F oven until lightly toasted.
  • Divide lobster mixture between the rolls. They'll be very full. That's good!
  • Garnish with green onions.

Notes

Serve with the remaining half lemon for juicing if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 473kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 1071mg | Potassium: 266mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 326IU | Vitamin C: 31mg | Calcium: 128mg | Iron: 3mg

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)

Panko Fried Shrimp

Mmmmm. Crispy panko fried shrimp. If you ordered these little bites of yumminess at a restaurant how many would you get? Five? Six? That’s just not nearly enough. Not even close. They’re just too good to only eat a handful. They’re seasoned simply, fried quickly, and ready to devour before you know it. And there’s no shortage of great crunch, that’s for sure.

Panko Fried Shrimp

Blank Shrimp Need Not Apply

For a little extra ‘something’ I often sprinkle my panko fried shrimp with just a bit of Old Bay seasoning just before I serve them. Not too much seasoning. But enough that you get that wonderful seafood spice aroma and just a little of that great flavor. You don’t want to bury them in it. Try it and you’ll find yourself doing it too.

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 crispy fried shrimp.

Panko Fried Shrimp
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5 from 1 vote

Panko Fried Shrimp

Mmmmm. Crispy panko fried shrimp. If you ordered these little bites of yumminess at a restaurant how many would you get? Five? Six? That’s just not nearly enough.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword crispy, deep-fried, shrimp
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 379kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place shrimp in a large bowl. Season well with salt, pepper and seasoning salt.
  • Heat 3-4" of oil in a Dutch oven or deep fryer to 350 F.
  • Add panko to a pie plate or shallow dish.
  • Season with salt, pepper and seasoning salt and stir.
  • In a separate pie plate or shallow dish place the flour.
  • Season with salt, pepper and seasoning salt and stir.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the egg and water.
  • Dip the shrimp in the egg and water mixture and coat. Shake off excess.
  • Add the shrimp to the flour. Toss to coat. Shake off excess.
  • Dip again in egg and water mixture. Shake off excess.
  • Toss shrimp in panko crumbs. Coat well.
  • Working in batches if necessary, add shrimp to the hot oil and fry 3-4 minutes, turning once. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Serve with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce or tartar sauce.

Notes

Best served immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 379kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 43g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 522mg | Sodium: 1468mg | Potassium: 233mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 135IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 293mg | Iron: 6mg

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