Category: Recipes

Quick Fix Habanero Pineapple Potato Chips

These quick fix habanero pineapple potato chips are different. Very different. If you’re tired of the same old 3 or 4 supermarket chip flavors, you’re gonna cure yourself with the first bite. Pineapple flavored chips are different for starters. A little sweet. Tropical. Then comes the heat. Habanero heat. ‘Not fooling around’ heat.

Quick Fix Habanero Pineapple Potato Chips

Cheap Chips. Great Results.

You don’t have to start out with expensive, name-brand chips when you make some quick fix salt pepper and garlic pineapple habanero chips. In fact, you’re gonna have great results with the cheapest chips you can find. Personally, I recommend wavy chips with ridges. Those ridges and waves help trap the seasonings and keep them on the chips. No big seasoning mounds in the bottom of the bowl here. You want that stuff to stick.

Go Light

I usually am pretty heavy handed with the seasoning when I flavor my chips. Not in this case, though. The seasoning is pretty forward. I recommend starting light and adding more after tasting, if needed.

Kinder's Habanero Pineapple Seasoning, Adds Spicy and Sweet Flavor to Dishes, 5.9 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Kinder’s Habanero Pineapple Seasoning, Adds Spicy and Sweet Flavor to Dishes, 5.9 Ounce (Pack of 1)

Also try some quick fix ginger teriyaki potato chips! They’re quite different too!

Quick Fix Habanero Pineapple Potato Chips
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Habanero Pineapple Potato Chips

The solution to boring potato chips.
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword potato chips, quick fix
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 452kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Simple Comfort Food

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

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

Notes

Be gentle when stirring to avoid breaking the chips.

Nutrition

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

Nutritional values are approximate.

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)

Everything Bagel Seasoning Chex Mix using an Outdoor Griddle

This was my second time making a Chex Mix treat on my outdoor griddle. It has become my go-to snack when I’m outside grilling. Everything Bagel Seasoning Chex Mix using an outdoor griddle has a wonderful flavor. The seasoning really cranks up the taste from what is already a great treat. And the wonderful crunchy caramelization you get on each and every little tasty morsel, thanks to the griddle, is fantastic. Well, that and hey, it’s fun cooking outside on a griddle!

Everything Bagel Seasoning Chex Mix using an Outdoor Griddle

Make It Your Way

I admit it, I didn’t use the exact ingredients listed for this Everything Bagel seasoning Chex Mix using an outdoor griddle. Not the dry ones at least. The key is just get to around 13 or so cups of ‘stuff’. Chex cereal. Goldfish crackers. Whatever. It’s entirely up to you. Just keep the butter mix the way it is. Don’t mess with that. But go nuts with the snack part all you want. I’m a whatever-I-have-on-hand kind of guy so that’s what I used. Stuff I found in the pantry!

McCormick Culinary Everything Bagel Seasoning, 21 oz - One 21 Ounce Container of Everything Bagel Seasoning Blend of Poppy Seed, Sesame Seed, Garlic, Onion and Salt
McCormick Culinary Everything Bagel Seasoning, 21 oz – One 21 Ounce Container of Everything Bagel Seasoning Blend of Poppy Seed, Sesame Seed, Garlic, Onion and Salt

You can also make awesome popcorn on your griddle!

Everything Bagel Seasoning Chex Mix using a Griddle
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Everything Bagel Seasoning Chex Mix using an Outdoor Griddle

A super-tasty snack that feeds a small crowd!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Chex mix, griddle
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 495kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Simple Comfort Food

Equipment

Ingredients

For the dry

For the wet

Instructions

  • Pre-heat your griddle over low heat. Make sure that it’s clean. Depending on the size of your griddle, you might have to do make the mix in batches. The easiest way to do that is to halve the mix and butter mixture first.
  • In a large bowl, combine all of the dry ingredients.
  • Melt the butter in a small bowl or pot. Whisk in the remaining ingredients.
  • Add the butter mixture to the dry mixture and stir to coat and combine.
  • Add the Chex Mix ingredients to the griddle. Immediately spread it out.
  • You want to toast the mixture for 2 minutes. Keep it moving constantly or it will brown. You want it to get a little color to it. A little char here and there is fine too.
  • Keep the mixture moving as you continue to toast it. You’ll need 5-10 minutes to get it to the desired color and crispiness.
  • Immediately remove the mix to a large baking sheet (or two) and spread out to cool slightly.
  • Serve warm or cold. Store leftovers in an air-tight container.

Notes

The dry ingredients can be any of your favorites, just try to get to a total of 13 cups. 
Cover any leftover mix.

Nutrition

Calories: 495kcal | Carbohydrates: 64g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 1496mg | Potassium: 316mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 735IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 131mg | Iron: 15mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set
Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set

Air Fryer Smoked Sausage Sandwiches with Chimichurri Sauce

I really don’t know what happened to me. I made some of these air fryer smoked sausage sandwiches with chimichurri sauce and something ‘clicked’. Things changed in my world just like that. I could not get over how much I loved each and every bite. Maybe I just needed a change from my usual smoked sausage or hot dog dishes. What I was missing was chimichurri sauce. Boy, does it ever change up a boring sausage. Crunchy onions. Herbs. Oil and vinegar. It’s almost like having a salad dressing but oh, oh so much better.

Air Fryer Smoked Sausage Sandwiches with Chimichurri Sauce

Chimi-What

Don’t let the name fool you. The chimichurri sauce is easy to make. Usually it’s found on grilled beef or pork. I decided it needed to also be on my air fryer smoked sausage sandwiches. I actually doubled the sauce ingredients because I guessed that I was going to love it. And I did. I loaded up on it. I couldn’t get enough of it. Heck, I even dunked my smoked sausage in it. Now that’s true love right there!

PS: The sauce is also great on fried chicken or air fried chicken wings! Trust me! It’s not just for beef!

A Little Tip

I like to make a little cut lengthwise down my smoked sausages before I toss them into the air fryer. Not all the way through. I’d say halfway at most. As the sausages cook they open up a bit. Then, when I put them on the buns I put them cut-side up. That gives the toppings (such as the chimichurri sauce) a great place to settle in. And stay there. It’s so much better than taking a bit only to have the toppings squirt out the end.

I use a pretty straight-forward air fryer, that doesn’t have a lot of bells (ok, it has a bell for when the timer goes off!) and whistles. It gets the job done.
DASH Deluxe Electric Air Fryer + Oven Cooker with Temperature Control, Non-stick Fry Basket, Recipe Guide + Auto Shut Off Feature, 1700-Watt, 6 Quart - Aqua
DASH Deluxe Electric Air Fryer + Oven Cooker with Temperature Control, Non-stick Fry Basket, Recipe Guide + Auto Shut Off Feature, 1700-Watt, 6 Quart – Aqua

Also try my smoked sausage sandwiches with beer-braised onions.

Air Fryer Smoked Sausage Sandwiches with Chimichurri Sauce
Print Pin
5 from 2 votes

Air Fryer Smoked Sausage Sandwiches with Chimichurri Sauce

Wonderfully herby, flavorful sandwiches that are sure to impress!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword air fryer, smoked sausage
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 353kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chimichurri sauce

For the smoked sausage sandwiches

  • 4 smoked sausage links or whatever links you prefer, such as hot dogs or andouille
  • 4 large hot dog buns split

Instructions

For the chimichurri sauce

  • Combine all ingredients and set aside until ready to use. Give the mixture another stir before using.

For the smoked sausage sandwiches

  • Preheat your air fryer to 390 F.
  • Add the buns and toast for 30 seconds. Remove.
  • Add the sausages and cook for 4-6 minutes until lightly charred, turning once.
  • Assemble sandwiches by placing links on buns and topping with plenty of the chimichurri sauce.

Notes

Store any leftover chimichurri in the fridge, covered. Let come to room temperature before stirring and serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 353kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 47mg | Sodium: 1621mg | Potassium: 242mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 438IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 101mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

MFTEK XL Air Fryer Accessories-Air Fryer Rack Set of 2, Multi-purpose Double Layer Rack with Skewer, Compatible with XL Power Airfryer Philips
MFTEK XL Air Fryer Accessories-Air Fryer Rack Set of 2, Multi-purpose Double Layer Rack with Skewer, Compatible with XL Power Airfryer Philips

Quick Fix Cheesoning Potato Chips

I’m bored with store-bought flavored chips. Oh sure, companies keep trying to come up with new flavors to get us to buy them but usually they just don’t ‘wow’ me. That’s why, more and more, I season store-bought chips at home. The flavors are only limited by my imagination. Well, and my pantry! Today I made a batch of quick fix cheesoning potato chips. They came out great. They taste like parmesan chips, but they have an herby twist. Nice and savory. And gone quick too.

Quick Fix Cheesoning Potato Chips

Use Cheap Chips. Get Great Results.

You don’t have to start out with expensive, name-brand chips when you make some quick fix cheesoning potato chips. In fact, you’re gonna have great results with the cheapest chips you can find. Personally, I recommend wavy chips with those thick ridges. Ridges and waves help trap the seasonings and keep them on the chips. No big seasoning mounds in the bottom of the bowl here. You want that stuff to stick.

Be Heavy Handed

The Cheesoning seasoning from Dan-O’s is fairly mellow. So, it’s ok to be heavy handed with the seasoning. Big time. Load them up. If I wanted wimpy flavored chips I’d have bought the pre-made stuff. I want flavor. Everywhere. All over.

Dan-O's Cheesoning Seasoning, 7.6 oz Bottle, All Purpose Seasoning for Pizza, Popcorn, Chicken, Bread and More, Sugar Free, Zero Calorie, Parmesan Cheese Replacement for your Favorite Foods
Dan-O’s Cheesoning Seasoning, 7.6 oz Bottle, All Purpose Seasoning for Pizza, Popcorn, Chicken, Bread and More, Sugar Free, Zero Calorie, Parmesan Cheese Replacement for your Favorite Foods

These chips go great with a cold cut sandwich.

Quick Fix Cheesoning Potato Chips
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Cheesoning Potato Chips

The solution to boring potato chips.
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword potato chips, quick fix
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 452kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Simple Comfort Food

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

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

Notes

Be gentle when stirring to avoid breaking the chips.

Nutrition

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

Nutritional values are approximate.

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)

Quick Fix Seasoned Pizza Rolls

I’m not a complicated guy. My food doesn’t have to be all fancy fru-fru. I often find myself going back to the foods of my college bachelor days. Maybe with a twist or two here and there, but same kinda things. Like pizza rolls. I loved pizza rolls. Still do. And like everyone else, I’ve burned my tongue on them, popping them into my mouth long before they are cooled off. It happens. Today, I decided to heat up a few of my favorite flavor (supreme!) and add a bit of seasoning. Quick fix seasoned pizza rolls just have a little extra flavor. Not enough to be fru-fru, but definitely enough to be yummy!

Quick Fix Seasoned Pizza Rolls

Cheesoning Is The Reasoning

I’m a Dan-O’s Seasoning fan. So I grabbed some Cheesoning seasoning for my quick fix seasoned pizza rolls. It’s like a good grated Parmesan cheese, with some herbs and spices thrown in for good measure (and taste). It’s a great flavor that goes well with pizza rolls. Italian seasoning would be good too. Or pizza seasoning. No need to go crazy with it. Chances are that there’s something in your spice rack would be just great. We’re just taking regular good ole pizza rolls and making them a bit better.

Dan-O's Cheesoning Seasoning, 7.6 oz Bottle, All Purpose Seasoning for Pizza, Popcorn, Chicken, Bread and More, Sugar Free, Zero Calorie, Parmesan Cheese Replacement for your Favorite Foods
Dan-O’s Cheesoning Seasoning, 7.6 oz Bottle, All Purpose Seasoning for Pizza, Popcorn, Chicken, Bread and More, Sugar Free, Zero Calorie, Parmesan Cheese Replacement for your Favorite Foods

My easy-to-make stromboli is delicious, too!

Seasoned Pizza Rolls
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Seasoned Pizza Rolls

Quick. Easy. And oh so yummy!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword pizza rolls
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 100kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 12 pizza rolls frozen. Use any flavor you want!
  • 1 tablespoon butter melted, optional
  • 1 tablespoon Dan-O's Cheesoning Seasoning to taste. Or use your favorite seasoning!
  • marinara sauce warmed, for serving

Instructions

  • Cook the pizza rolls according to the package instructions.
  • Transfer the rolls to a bowl.
  • If you are using the butter, drizzle the rolls with the butter and stir to coat.
  • Sprinkle the rolls with the seasoning.
  • Stir gently to coat.
  • Transfer to a plate along with some warmed marinara sauce and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 100kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 185mg | Potassium: 85mg | Sugar: 1g | 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)

Popcorn using an Outdoor Griddle

I started out down the road making popcorn using an outdoor griddle thinking it was… well, kinda gimmicky. One of those things you make once. You say to yourself “Well that was kinda neat”. Then you never do it again. Wrong! I made this popcorn 3 days in a row. I shared it with the neighbors. We all agree, it was awesome! The kernels popped up perfectly. The popcorn had a nice extra crunch to it. Fresh. Delicious. All I had to do was toss it with a little salt and serve!

Popcorn using an Outdoor Griddle

A Man And His Dome

Making popcorn using an outdoor griddle is pretty easy. You start out by heating a little oil for about 10 minutes. Then you add the kernels and cover them with a lid. Now here’s the first important thing. Once things get going, don’t lift the lid. Just don’t. You’ll hear popping. You’ll want to take a look. Don’t. Just don’t. Why? Because if you’re like me you have to do it once and when you do, you quickly learn your lesson. Yep. Popcorn everywhere. All over the griddle. On my deck. In the yard. Happiest day ever for the squirrels. Not so great a moment for me. So keep the lid down.

Popcorn using an Outdoor Griddle
Cuisinart CMD-108 Melting Dome, 9",Stainless steel
Cuisinart CMD-108 Melting Dome, 9″,Stainless steel

Less Is More

Here’s a picture of me violating the rule of ‘don’t lift the lid’. I just wanted to show how easy this process is. Not a lot of kernels are needed. Ditto the oil. Don’t overload it. The popcorn only takes a few minutes once it gets going. It’s easier to make another batch than to try and handle one big batch.

Popcorn using an Outdoor Griddle

Once you hear the kernels pop, move the lid around on the griddle a bit. You don’t have to go nuts with it. You don’t have to shake it like Jiffy Pop popcorn. But move it a bit to keep any popped kernels from burning.

When you no longer hear popping move the lid over to a cooler part of the griddle and lift it up to scoop up the popcorn. I use two big spatulas to do it. It’s a bit of an art. The first time I dropped some popcorn. Second time I had it down and got them all.

Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set
Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set

Also try my baked Ranch sourdough pretzel bites.

Popcorn using a Griddle
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Popcorn using an Outdoor Griddle

Easy, delightfully-crunchy popcorn!
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword griddle, popcorn
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 77kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Heat up your griddle on medium heat for 10 minutes.
  • Drizzle the oil onto the center of your griddle.
  • Add the popcorn kernels.
  • Let the kernels warm up. Once you start to see the oil sizzle, turn the heat down to medium-low and cover the kernels with the dome.
  • Keep cooking until you hear the kernels start to pop. Using a grill mitt, grab the dome and slowly keep it moving in circles so that the popped kernels do not burn. Do not lift the dome while doing this.
  • Keep moving and cooking until the kernels go for 1-2 seconds without anything popping.
  • Slide the dome to a cooler area of the grill if possible. Remove the lid. Using a spatula, transfer the cooked popcorn to a medium bowl.
  • Sprinkle the popcorn with salt, toss, and serve.

Notes

Serve immediately for maximum flavor and crunchy!

Nutrition

Calories: 77kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 56mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 0.2g | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Kernel Season's Popcorn Seasoning Mini Jars Variety Pack, 0.9 Ounce (Pack of 8)
Kernel Season’s Popcorn Seasoning Mini Jars Variety Pack, 0.9 Ounce (Pack of 8)

Nashville Hot Chicken Cheesesteaks using an Outdoor Griddle

I need to start a new food category here on Life’s A Tomato. It’ll be called ‘so crazy good that I ate this 3 days in a row’. The first dish I’ll add to this new category will be this Nashville Hot Chicken cheesesteaks made using an outdoor griddle. This was good. Crazy good. A little spicy. Tender, juicy chicken that is packed with flavor. A little ooey-gooey cheese action. Crispy vegetables. And of course, a few pickles. This is one great sandwich!

Nashville Hot Chicken Cheesesteaks using an Outdoor Griddle

Easy Griddle Action

I haven’t had my large outdoor griddle for that long. I’ve used smaller griddles for burgers and the like for years. But the big one has made dishes like these Nashville Hot Chicken cheesesteaks a delight. There’s lots of room to cook up the onions and peppers then move them off to the side while my attention turns to the chicken. Room to toast the rolls, too.

Nashville Hot Chicken Cheesesteaks using an Outdoor Griddle

Spicy Like I Love It

These sandwiches have a nice kick to them. The seasoning and cheese bring it, but without being crazy spicy. I went a little heavy on both because I love a good spicy sandwich. If you’re into even more heat, add some jalapeno slices, either to the vegetables as they cook or the sandwich before serving. Or both!

McCormick Grill Mates Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning, 3 oz
McCormick Grill Mates Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning, 3 oz

These cheesesteaks are tasty and easy. Looking for something even easier, though? Try my garlic naan pizzas using an outdoor griddle.

Nashville Hot Chicken Cheesesteaks using an Outdoor Griddle
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Nashville Hot Chicken Cheesesteaks using an Outdoor Griddle

So good that you'll never miss the real things!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword cheesesteak, chicken
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 527kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from McCormick

Equipment

Ingredients

For the sauce

For the meat filling

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 medium green bell pepper chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped
  • 6 slices pepper Jack cheese

For the sandwiches

Instructions

For the sauce

  • In a small bowl combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of the hot chicken seasoning.
  • Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

For the meat filling

  • Place the chicken pieces into a large bowl.
  • Drizzle with the oil and sprinkle with the remaining hot chicken seasoning. Mix until all of the chicken is coated evenly.
  • Cover and set aside until ready to serve. Toss chicken with oil and remaining 2 tablespoons
  • Preheat your outdoor griddle on high.
  • Add a splash or two of oil. Add the peppers and onions and cook, stirring often, until they are just starting to soften. Do not over cook them. You want a little bit of a crunch.
  • Move the pepper and onion mix to a cooler part of the grill to keep warm.
  • Add another splash or two of oil to the griddle and add the chicken.
  • Cook the chicken, stirring often, 5-7 minutes or until done.
  • Add the pepper and onion mixture and stir.
  • Spread the filling out evenly onto the griddle and top with the cheese slices.
  • As soon as the cheese starts to melt, assemble the sandwiches (below).

For the sandwiches

  • Slather the cut sides of the rolls with the sauce.
  • Use a long spatula to scoop up the chicken mixture and divide between the rolls.
  • Add a few pickle slices to each sandwich and serve.

Notes

For even spicier sandwiches, substitute pickled (or fresh) jalapeno slices for the pickles!

Nutrition

Calories: 527kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 134mg | Sodium: 639mg | Potassium: 372mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 277IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 183mg | Iron: 12mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set
Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set

Easy Cheesy Bacon Broccoli using an Outdoor Griddle

My outdoor griddle isn’t just for smash burgers, quesadillas and pizzas. I even use it for side dishes such as this easy cheesy bacon broccoli using an outdoor griddle. Now, this might not be the healthiest side dish I’ve ever made outside. But it sure was one of the tastiest! And it’s definitely one of the easiest! This is the perfect thing to serve alongside my griddled smash burger!

Easy Cheesy Bacon Broccoli using an Outdoor Griddle

Are Cheese and Bacon Ever Optional?

You could leave out the cheese sauce. And even the bacon. And just make easy broccoli using an outdoor griddle. A little salt and pepper. Serve it up. And it’d be good. But for me, to get to ‘great’ you gotta add the cheese sauce and bacon bits. Kraft makes this crazy easy crazy good Velveeta sauce that comes in a little foil packet. You just pour the sauce into a bowl and microwave it for 30 seconds and boom! Instant cheese sauce perfect for something like broccoli!

Blackstone 5071 32 oz Plastic Squeeze Bottle Set with Twisting Lids, 2-Pack
Blackstone 5071 32 oz Plastic Squeeze Bottle Set with Twisting Lids, 2-Pack

Steaming the broccoli on the griddle is easy. Just squirt it with a bit of water and let it cook a bit under a dome. It comes out perfectly every time!

Cuisinart CMD-108 Melting Dome, 9",Stainless steel
Cuisinart CMD-108 Melting Dome, 9″,Stainless steel

This broccoli is an excellent served alongside my Oklahoma onion smash burgers!

Easy Cheesy Bacon Broccoli using a Griddle
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Easy Cheesy Bacon Broccoli using an Outdoor Griddle

You could leave out the cheese sauce. And even the bacon.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword broccoli, griddle
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 92kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Pre-heat your griddle over medium heat.
  • Open the bag of broccoli and place on the griddle. Use your spatula to mound the broccoli in a small circle.
  • Give the broccoli a few good squirts of water and season well with salt and pepper.
  • Cover and let the broccoli cook for 5 minutes.
  • Take a quick peek inside. I like to give the lid a good shake first or you can stir the broccoli with the lid off. If the broccoli is drying out add more water. Feel free to add more salt and pepper too.
  • Keep cooking for up to 12 minutes total. Check it one more time after 10 minutes to make sure more water and/or seasoning isn't needed.
  • Remove the broccoli to a medium bowl.
  • Empty the contents of the cheese sauce packet into a microwavable bowl and heat per package instructions, 30 seconds. Stir.
  • Spoon the cheese sauce over the broccoli.
  • Add a few good pinches of bacon.
  • Stir to combine.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

This recipe can be made using fresh broccoli instead. Bring a pot of lightly-salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and boil for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just starting to soften. Remove to an ice bath to cool completely. Drain well before placing onto the hot griddle.

Nutrition

Calories: 92kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 12mg | Sodium: 478mg | Potassium: 367mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 808IU | Vitamin C: 76mg | Calcium: 203mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set
Weber Griddle Essential 5 Piece Tool Set

The Best Quick Fix Recipes

Nothing complicated. No long ingredient lists. The best quick fix recipes are just that. My favorite recipes that take minimal time and effort but still taste great.

1
Quick Fix Roasted Garlic And Herb Potato Chips
Quick Fix Roasted Garlic And Herb Potato Chips
The solution to boring potato chips.
Check out this recipe
2
Quick Fix Copycat McRib Sandwich
Quick Fix Copycat McRib Sandwich
I actually prefer 2 patties per sandwich.
Check out this recipe
3
Quick Fix Pizza Tots
Quick Fix Pizza Tots
I created a ‘quick fix’ category here so I’d have a place to click on for my easiest recipes. A short list of ingredients and a short amount of time is the rule. Like these quick fix pizza tots
Check out this recipe
4
Quick Fix Turkey Reuben Sandwiches
Quick Fix Turkey Reuben Sandwiches
Use thin- or thick-sliced turkey sandwich meat.
Check out this recipe
5
Quick Fix Turkey Manhattan
Quick Fix Turkey Manhattan
What leftover turkey was made for.
Check out this recipe
6
Quick Fix Franch Dressing
Quick Fix Franch Dressing
Franch dressing is more proof that sometimes easy is best.
Check out this recipe
7
Quick Fix Herbed Fries
Quick Fix Herbed Fries
Who doesn’t keep a bag or two (or more) of frozen fries on hand at all times? Yep, easiest side dish in the world, ready in no time. But no reason for them to be boring.
Check out this recipe
8
Quick Fix French Bread Pizza
Quick Fix French Bread Pizza
I’ve been doing the best I can to keep our meals simple these days. These quick fix French bread pizzas have been a regular staple in our house since we’ve been keeping at home as much as possible.
Check out this recipe
9
Quick Fix Gumbo
Quick Fix Gumbo
All the flavors of a full-blown gumbo, but in a lot less time.
Check out this recipe
10
Quick Fix Broccoli and Cheese Baked Potatoes
Quick Fix Broccoli and Cheese Baked Potatoes
I use Green Giant's frozen broccoli and cheese to top these quick fix baked potatoes,
Check out this recipe
11
Quick Fix Asian Fries
Quick Fix Asian Fries
Since I was grilling up a few Asian pork burgers for dinner, I needed some fries to go with them. Something with a bit of Asian zing to it. 
Check out this recipe
12
Quick Fix Copycat McDonald's Chicken Sandwich
Quick Fix Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Sandwich
I love cooking meals from scratch. But sometimes reality hits and I have to throw something together that doesn’t require a lot of preparation. That’s where this quick fix copycat of McDonald’s chicken sandwich comes in. In less than 30 minutes I get to enjoy a rather tasty chicken sandwich.
Check out this recipe
13
Quick Fix Homemade Breakfast Sausage
Quick Fix Homemade Breakfast Sausage
I use a great seasoning mix from A.C. Legg’s that I picked up on Amazon. It has just the right blend of spices without having too much sage or black pepper.
Check out this recipe
14
Quick Fix Pickle Relish
Quick Fix Pickle Relish
For a spicy version of this quick fix pickle relish, just add a few good pinches of dried red pepper flake. You’ll want to let the relish ‘get happy’ in the fridge for a few hours before using it so that it gets good and spicy. 
Check out this recipe
15
Quick Fix Spicy Pickles
Quick Fix Spicy Pickles
These quick fix spicy pickles absolutely hit the spot. I love dill pickles, and I love a little spiciness so it was easy to love these pickles. 
Check out this recipe
16
Quick Fix Tex-Mex Corn Chip Chili
Quick Fix Tex-Mex Corn Chip Chili
This may well be my wife's favorite chili. I have to admit, it’s mighty good. This quick fix Tex-Mex corn chip chili is definitely quick fix. The only way you could make a chili any quicker is if the entire dish came out of a single can.
Check out this recipe
17
Quick Fix Spicy Salsa
Quick Fix Spicy Salsa
Don't let the simplicity fool you. This salsa has great flavor.
Check out this recipe
18
Quick Fix Broccoli and Cheese Baked Potatoes
Quick Fix Broccoli and Cheese Baked Potatoes
I use Green Giant's frozen broccoli and cheese to top these quick fix baked potatoes,
Check out this recipe
19
Quick Fix Frank's RedHot Original Seasoning Potato Chips
Quick Fix Frank’s RedHot Original Seasoning Potato Chips
You don't need to grab the expensive chips when you make quick fix Buffalo-flavored potato chips.
Check out this recipe
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)

Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers

I like my smash burgers tasty. Hot. Juicy. And darned messy. Nothing fancy. In fact, the less fancy, the better. These Oklahoma onion smash burgers are my favorite. By far. Just a few ingredients. But boy, do they check all of my boxes. I can (and have) eaten these several days in a row. And not once did I even remotely think I was getting bored with them. They’re delicious. Perfect.

Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers

The Onions

The key to making delicious, juicy, tasty Oklahoma onion smash burgers is the onions. First, they have to be thin. I mean ‘read-a-newspaper-through-them’ thin. Crazy thin. Unless you’re a knife master and have the sharpest knife on the planet, I recommend using a mandolin to cut the onions. Put it on the thinnest possible setting. And of course, be careful.

Mandoline Food Slicer, Adjustable Stainless Steel with Waffle Fry Cutter Crinkle Cut Potato Chip Vegetable Onion
Mandoline Food Slicer, Adjustable Stainless Steel with Waffle Fry Cutter Crinkle Cut Potato Chip Vegetable Onion

You need plenty of onions. Lots of them. You cannot be shy with them. At all. When you think you’re putting too much on them, you’re wrong. Add more. I call for 2 big ones in the recipe. There’s nothing wrong with using 3. Or 4 medium-sized ones. Seems like a lot doesn’t it? It’s not. Trust me.

Crispy Edges

You gotta have that crunchy part when you make smash burgers. That little edge around them that sticks out from the bun and has the perfect crunch. You eat that first. All around the burger. Some people bite into it. Some pull it off with their fingers. Either way, it’s a true joy and a smash burger must!

Cuisinart CGPR-221 Cast Iron Grill Press (Wood Handle), Weighs 2.1-pounds
Cuisinart CGPR-221 Cast Iron Grill Press (Wood Handle), Weighs 2.1-pounds

Also try my super-messy deluxe nacho cheese smash burgers!

Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Oklahoma Onion Smash Burgers

The perfect smash burger made on a griddle!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword burgers, griddle
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 731kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the burgers

For the burger sauce (you will have some leftover)

Instructions

For the burger sauce

  • Place all ingredients into a small bowl.
  • Whisk until combined and smooth.
  • Refrigerate until ready to use.

For the burgers

  • Divide the beef into 4 4 ounce pieces and form into balls. Do not pack them tightly, just handle them enough to form into balls. Cover and place into the fridge.
  • Slice the onions very thin. I recommend using a mandolin. Ideally, you want them so thin that you can read a newspaper through them! Thin is best!
  • Place the onions into a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat well and let sit on the countertop for 20 minutes.
  • Preheat your griddle over high heat for 10 minutes. Add oil if needed.
  • Meanwhile, drain all of the water out of the bowl of onions. Then squeeze all of the water you can out of the onions. Squeeze and keep squeezing! Place the onions back into the dry bowl until ready to use.
  • Add the burger balls to the griddle, leaving plenty of room between them.
  • Lightly smash down the burgers and season well with salt and pepper.
  • Top each burger with onion and smash them down the rest of the way. You want the patties nice and thin.
  • Cook the burgers for 4 minutes (or a little longer if they are thicker). The steam from the meat will help cook the onion. Flip the patties so that they are onion-side down and season again. The patties and onions will start to get golden brown and crunchy along the edges.
  • After 2 more minutes add the cheese. Let it melt for for 2 minutes.
  • Place the bun tops over the burgers and top with the bun bottoms and cook another 2 minutes. If your griddle has a top, close the lid. You want to steam the buns.
  • Transfer the bun bottoms to a plate. Add the sauce and pickles.
  • Add a patty to each bun bottom along with a bun top and serve hot and juicy!

Notes

If you don’t have a griddle, you can use a large cast iron skillet on the grill instead. You might not have enough room to make all 4 burgers at once.

Nutrition

Calories: 731kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 52g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 14g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 113mg | Sodium: 1761mg | Potassium: 560mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 361IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 331mg | 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)