Tag: recipe

Homemade Red Velvet Klondike Bars

Klondike bars are a very dangerous thing. Whatever gene you have to be born with to control yourself around them is one that I do not have. I thought that the store-bought ones were tempting enough until I made homemade red velvet Klondike bars. Now I know what true temptation is.

Homemade Red Velvet Klondike Bars

No Chocolatiers Live Here, That’s For Sure

I’m not a baker or chocolatier or anything like the experts that make chocolate treats. I was lucky to get the chocolate on these bars in an even remotely even manner. These homemade red velvet Klondike bars came out tasting fantastic. I couldn’t care less if some had a bit more chocolate than others.

One of the biggest keys to these bars is the coconut oil. It doesn’t take a lot of the oil, but it’s very important to the texture and sheen of the chocolate.

Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, Cold-Pressed - Natural Hair /Skin Oil and Cooking Oil with Fresh Flavor, Non-GMO Unrefined Extra Virgin(Aceite de Coco), USDA Organic, 16 oz
Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil, Cold-Pressed – Natural Hair /Skin Oil and Cooking Oil with Fresh Flavor, Non-GMO Unrefined Extra Virgin(Aceite de Coco), USDA Organic, 16 oz

You can, of course, substitute any ice cream flavor you like. Red velvet ice cream was only available here for a limited time, so I had to grab it while I could. For a simpler but just as crazy good treat, try my homemade mini ice cream sandwiches. If you love red velvet as much as my wife does, my red velvet ice cream cone cupcakes are delicious too!

Also try my frozen yogurt dots.

Homemade Red Velvet Klondike Bars
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5 from 1 vote

Homemade Red Velvet Klondike Bars

I thought that the store-bought ones were tempting enough until I made homemade red velvet Klondike bars. Now I know what true temptation is.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword dessert, homemade
Prep Time 6 hours
Cook Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings 4 -6 servings
Calories 391kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Almost Super Mom

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Add ice cream to an 8" x 8" baking dish lined with parchment paper. Add enough so that the ice cream is 1/2" – 1" thick.
  • Spread out evenly using a spatula.
  • Freeze for at least 6 hours or until the ice cream is completely refrozen.
  • Turn pan upside down to remove the ice cream.
  • Cut into 4-6 equal-sized squares. Return the squares to the freezer to re-freeze.
  • Place coconut oil and chocolate chips into a double boiler over medium heat and and melt, stirring often.
  • Remove chocolate from heat and let cool to room temperature. Do not rush this step.
  • Working quickly, take ice cream squares from freezer and dip into the chocolate.
  • Flip with a fork and quickly remove to parchment paper.
  • Place bars in freezer for 20 minutes.
  • Wrap in thin foil before serving.

Notes

Well-frozen ice cream is key to making sure the chocolate sticks well. Also do not rush cooling the chocolate sauce. It needs to be at room temperature. Any warmer and it will melt the ice cream and not adhere.

Nutrition

Calories: 391kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Cholesterol: 58mg | Sodium: 106mg | Potassium: 263mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 556IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 169mg | 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)

Bacon Weave BLTs

It was a beautiful spring day here. That had me wishing it was summer and fresh tomatoes were available. I couldn’t wait any longer. I had to make a few BLTs, even if the tomatoes weren’t perfect. Sometimes, you have to do what you have to do. But to make up for the tomatoes I decided to make a simple bacon weave. Bacon Weave BLTs are elevated BLTs. Other BLTs are jealous of them.

Bacon Weave BLTs

The Bacon Bite Guarantee

I made these bacon weave BLTs two days in a row. I will never make them any other way again at least as far as the bacon goes. Making a weave out of the bacon is not only easy, the bacon stays together better. No chunks flying off when you take a bite. And the best part? You’re guaranteed bacon in every single bite. You can’t beat that.

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)

Want all the flavor of a BLT in an appetizer? Try my chipotle BLT bites. Or go for the gusto and make a pretzel bacon cheese sandwich!

Bacon Weave BLTs
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5 from 1 vote

Bacon Weave BLTs

I will never make BLTs any other way again at least as far as the bacon goes. Making a weave out of the bacon is not only easy, the bacon stays together better. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword bacon, sandwich, tomato
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 1 sandwich
Calories 534kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Chin Deep

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 385 F.
  • Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
  • Cut the bacon in half.
  • Make a bacon weave. If you’re unsure exactly how to do this, click this link to see the original post (with great step-by-step pictures) on Chin Deep.
  • Lay out 3 halves of the bacon in a square. Make sure the pieces are together tightly.
  • Lift up and fold back the ends of every other one on one side of the baking sheet. Place a bacon slice perpendicular (vertically) to the horizontal rows of bacon, directly on top of the bacon strips that you did not fold back. Unfold the folded bacon to cover the strip that you just placed on the baking sheet.
  • Lift up and fold back the ends of the horizontal bacon strips that are now under the vertical bacon strip to the side of the baking sheet. Place a bacon slice right next to the first vertical bacon strip, directly on top of the bacon strips that you did not fold back. Unfold the folded bacon to cover the strip that you just placed on the baking sheet. Repeat the process of alternating the vertical and horizontal bacon strips till you reach the other end of the horizontal bacon strips.
  • Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes until crispy. Carefully remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Slather bread with mayonnaise.
  • Add bacon weave, lettuce, and tomato and salt and pepper to taste and serve.

Notes

You have to make these at least once for the  ‘wow’ factor.

Nutrition

Calories: 534kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 49mg | Sodium: 821mg | Potassium: 386mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 565IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 90mg | 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)

Chicken Salad Crescents

The original recipe for chicken salad crescents on the Plain Chicken blog was for small bite-sized rolls, perfect for a party appetizer. I decided to go big and serve them as the main course for lunch, and they were perfect! The super-light crunchy dough makes for the perfect wrapper around chicken salad. You can use your own chicken salad recipe of course. However, I was particularly fond this version, which has Worcestershire sauce in it. The Worcestershire really added a great flavor dimension along with the extra sharp cheddar. They were fantastic!

Chicken Salad Crescents

Chunky Chicken Salad Is Better

If you do use your own chicken salad recipe to make these chicken salad crescents, you might want to cut down on the mayonnaise. You want the salad to be thick. Not too thick, but thick enough to stand up to 20 minutes in the oven. Too thin and it’s going to run all over the place, leaving you with a pan of sadness!

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

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

Also try my creamy smoked chicken salad sandwiches.

Chicken Salad Crescents
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4 from 1 vote

Chicken Salad Crescents

You can use your own chicken salad recipe of course, but I was particularly fond this version, which has Worcestershire sauce in it. The Worcestershire really added a great flavor dimension along with the extra sharp cheddar. They were fantastic!
Course Appetizer or Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chicken salad, crescent rolls
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 24 rolls
Calories 115kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Plain Chicken

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • In a bowl mix together the chicken, celery, Worcestershire, salt, pepper and mayonnaise.
  • Open crescent roll cans and separate dough into triangles.
  • Add a half slice of cheese to the center of each piece of dough.
  • Top with 2 tablespoons, more or less, of the chicken salad and roll up the dough as you would a regular crescent roll.
  • Sprinkle rolls with poppy seeds.
  • Transfer rolls to parchment paper- or Silpat-lined baking sheets and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

These are great made with rotisserie chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 115kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 238mg | Potassium: 37mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 170IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 104mg | 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)

Tangy Pit Beans

After I finish writing this post I will curl up in front of a big bowl of these tangy pit beans and go to town on them. I love baked beans, and this is a very, very good variation on the theme. They are not boring. They have just the right amount of tang. And since this recipe makes a big batch, it’s a great dish to take to a pitch-in or family picnic.

Tangy Pit Beans

The Perfect BBQ Side Dish

These tangy pit beans were the perfect side for my smoked habanero meatloaf and cedar planked creamy mashed potato dinner. People will think that they are the same-ole same-ole baked beans. But they’ll realize otherwise with that first bite.

You can also cook these beans in a large Dutch oven.

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

If you’re in a hurry but still want great BBQ beans, try my quick fix version.

Tangy Pit Beans
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Tangy Pit Beans

After I finish writing this post I will curl up in front of a big bowl of these tangy pit beans and go to town on them. I love baked beans, and this is a very, very good variation on the theme. They are not boring. They have just the right amount of tang. And since this recipe makes a big batch, it’s a great dish to take to a pitch-in or family picnic.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword baked beans
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 254kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F. You can also make these beans on your smoker at 250 F, but you’ll have to increase the cook time to 3 hours.
  • Whisk together the mustard and ketchup in a large bowl.
  • Stir in the onion, pepper, sugar, honey, and rub.
  • Add the beans, and slowly and gently fold in to mix well.
  • Pour mixture into a deep 9" x 13" baking pan.
  • Add bacon to top of beans and cover with foil.
  • Bake for 45 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes.
  • Let rest 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use hot honey for a slight kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 254kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 632mg | Potassium: 286mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 52g | Vitamin A: 349IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 39mg | 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)

Crispy Chipotle Wings

Visit my other site, For The Wing, for all things chicken-wing!

Chicken wings are my favorite dish, and I sure have made them a lot of different ways with lots of different sauces. From homemade, to bottled, I can’t get enough wings. I’ll make them at home, and I’ll eat them at restaurants or bars. It’s hard to pick a favorite… until now. These crispy chipotle wings are my all-time favorites. A little heat, a little smokiness, and a little sweet. Everything you could want in a wing, and crunchy to boot. Grab some paper towels and scoot up to the table and get busy!

Crispy Chipotle Wings

I made these crispy chipotle wings on my Char-Broil Big Easy. Used to be, I couldn’t get super-crispy wings in the Big Easy without finishing them on a grill. Not any more. My crispy wing technique gets it done and done good on the Big Easy or in the oven. Give it a shot. It’s as good as deep-fried but without the oil.

La Costena Chipotle Peppers 7oz.
La Costena Chipotle Peppers 7oz.

Also try my raspberry chipotle wings.

Crispy Chipotle Wings
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Crispy Chipotle Wings

These crispy chipotle wings are my all-time favorites. A little heat, a little smokiness, and a little sweet. Everything you could want in a wing, and crunchy to boot. Grab some paper towels and scoot up to the table and get busy!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword crispy, spicy, wings
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 401kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the wings

For the sauce

Instructions

For the wings

For the sauce

  • Combine all ingredients except the salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  • Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.
  • Season with salt and let simmer slowly until thickened slightly.

Notes

Serve with Ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 401kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 109mg | Sodium: 534mg | Potassium: 211mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1346IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Buffalo Wild Wings Milder Variety Bundle: Parmesan Garlic, Medium, Honey BBQ, Asian Zing: 12 Ounces Each
Buffalo Wild Wings Milder Variety Bundle: Parmesan Garlic, Medium, Honey BBQ, Asian Zing: 12 Ounces Each

Traditional Smoked Pork Chops

It has been years and years since I’ve had a smoked pork chop. I guess I’d forgotten about them. I’ve smoked my share of pork butt and shoulder, and even homemade bacon, but for some reason, chops just never made it onto the menu. Until now. All I can say is I’m sorry. I’m sorry I’ve waited this long because these traditional smoked pork chops are off-the-chart good. A very simple overnight salt brine followed by a quick smoke over apple wood and lastly, a fruity glaze. The end result is smoky, slightly sweet, tender and juicy. It’s also a bit peppery, which I love. Pepper and pork go great together in my opinion.

Traditional Smoked Pork Chops

Glazed Two Ways

I tried two different fruit glazes on these traditional smoked pork chops. I microwaved a bit of apricot and a bit of peach preserves to warm and thin them, then brushed them over the chops while they were smoking. Fantastic!!!

Don’t Overcook Your Chops

Be mindful of the cook times when you make these chops. The thinner the chops, the quicker they will cook, obviously, and you definitely don’t want them to over-smoke. So test them early and often, and don’t let them go beyond 150 F.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb

Also try my cured smoked pork chops.

Traditional Smoked Pork Chops
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Traditional Smoked Pork Chops

I’m sorry I’ve waited this long because these traditional smoked pork chops are off-the-chart good. A very simple overnight salt brine followed by a quick smoke over apple wood and lastly, a fruity glaze. The end result is smoky, slightly sweet, tender and juicy (and peppery… I like a lot of pepper on my pork chops).
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword pork chops, smoked
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 13 hours 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 208kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Weber Grill Cover

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Salt both sides of the chops and refrigerate overnight.
  • The next day, fire up your smoker for cooking at 250 F. Use a nice mellow wood such as apple or peach.
  • Rinse the pork chops and pat dry with paper towels.
  • Season both sides of the chops with salt and pepper.
  • Smoke until the chops reach 130 F.
  • Microwave the preserves or honey for a few seconds, until thinned slightly, and brush over the tops of the chops.
  • Continue smoking until the chops reach 145-150 F, brushing with the preserves or honey every 10-15 minutes.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Note that cook times will vary depending on the thickness of the chops. Mine were about 1″ thick and took less time than stated below. If you use thin chops you’ll want to start checking them after 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 208kcal | Protein: 29g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 64mg | Potassium: 500mg | Vitamin A: 5IU | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

BBQ Pinwheels

Oh, I’ve made my share of pulled pork sandwiches. And I love them. Sometimes you want something a little different, but still with that great BBQ flavor. BBQ pinwheels are an excellent alternative to sandwiches. They’re easy to make, easy to eat, and very tasty. They also make for the perfect party appetizer.

BBQ Pinwheels

A Nice Change From BBQ Sandwiches


You can use anything from pulled or shredded pork, chopped brisket, smoked chicken, or even rotisserie chicken.  For a spicier kick, substitute pepper jack or habanero jack cheese for the cheddar and use a spicy BBQ sauce.

If I’m reaching for a bottled BBQ sauce, I often go for Sweet Baby Ray’s.

Sweet Baby Ray's Varierty Pack, 1 Original Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Hickory and Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Sweet N Spicy Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Honey Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, 1CT
Sweet Baby Ray’s Varierty Pack, 1 Original Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Hickory and Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Sweet N Spicy Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Honey Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, 1CT

Also try my BBQ hot dog appetizers and my bacon cheddar pinwheels.

BBQ Pinwheels
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3.50 from 2 votes

BBQ Pinwheels

BBQ pinwheels are an excellent alternative to sandwiches. They’re easy to make, easy to eat, and very tasty. They also make for the perfect party appetizer.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword BBQ, pulled pork, wraps
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 594kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 tube pizza dough
  • ½ cup your favorite BBQ sauce plus more for serving
  • 1 ½ cups pulled pork or pulled chicken, rotisserie chicken, chopped brisket… whichever you prefer
  • ½ small red onion chopped
  • 1 cup extra sharp cheddar shredded (Swiss, provolone or pepper jack also go well)
  • ¼ cup parsley chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425 F.
  • Sprinkle the flour onto a flat surface.
  • Open the pizza dough and spread it over the flour. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out into a rectangle.
  • Brush the BBQ sauce all over the dough.
  • Sprinkle the dough with the meat, onion, cheese and parsley.
  • Starting with the longest edge, roll the dough up into a long cylinder.
  • Cut the cylinder into 1″ wide sections and transfer, laying down flat, to a baking sheet.
  • Bake 15 minutes or until hot and the dough is crispy and done.
  • Serve with additional BBQ sauce, warmed, for dipping if desired.

Notes

Mix it up. Make some of these pinwheels using regular BBQ sauce, some with a smoky sauce and some with a spicy one!

Nutrition

Calories: 594kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 1781mg | Potassium: 153mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 32g | Vitamin A: 812IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 268mg | 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)

Potato Skins on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

For me, the best part of these potato skins on the Char-Broil Big Easy isn’t so much the toppings, though let’s face it, I do love bacon and cheese and sour cream and jalapenos. No, it’s actually the crispy potato skins. Brushing them with melted butter mixed with smoky chipotle powder really sets these skins apart from the usual. It’s not all about the toppings. Every bite is fantastic.

Potato Skins on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Load ‘Em Up!

Depending on how big they are, you can fit at least 8 of them on the Big Easy at once if you use the additional bunk bed basket. Potato skins on the Char-Broil Big Easy are a magical thing, and you’ll want to make as many as you possibly can at once.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

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

You can also cook French fries and hash brown patties on the Big Easy.

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Potato Skins on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Potato Skins on the Char-Broil Big Easy

For me, the best part of these potato skins isn’t so much the toppings, though let’s face it, I do love bacon and cheese and sour cream and jalapenos. No, it’s actually the crispy potato skins.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, potato skins
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 676kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 large Russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
  • 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 3 strips bacon cooked, crumbled
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • sour cream
  • jalapenos diced or sliced, optional

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Cut each potato lengthwise into four wedges. Don’t make the wedges too thick. If you are using very large potatoes you might have a center portion leftover for other uses.
  • Using a spoon or melon baller, scrape out the potato insides, leaving 1/4″ or so left.
  • Place on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 6-10 minutes or until tender.
  • Combine the butter and chipotle powder and brush on all sides of the potatoes.
  • Place the potatoes on a rack and lower into the cooker and cook for 5 minutes until hot and starting to get crispy.
  • Remove the basket from the Big Easy and let cool for a minute or two.
  • CAREFULLY top the potatoes with the cheese (be careful to not touch the still-hot basket) and return to the Big Easy for a few more minutes or until the cheese is melted.
  • Serve topped with the bacon, green onions, sour cream and diced or sliced jalapenos as desired.

Notes

Best served immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 676kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 640mg | Potassium: 1720mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1023IU | Vitamin C: 23mg | Calcium: 478mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Copycat Steak ‘n Shake Frisco Melts

What makes a great patty melt? Well, melted cheese, of course. And a tangy sauce. A perfectly seasoned and cooked patty. Well-toasted thick slices of bread. But the most important thing is they have to be messy. Very, very messy. I want stuff dripping out. All over the plate, all over my shirt. Into my lap. Onto the table. You get the point. Messy. That’s a great patty melt, and that’s what these copycat Steak ‘n Shake Frisco melts are: great.

Copycat Steak n Shake Frisco Melts

Turn It Into A Frisco Melt Dip!

I go the extra mile to get these copycat Steak ‘n Shake Frisco melts even messier. I make a little extra sauce and put it into some small sauce bowls and dip my sandwich in it. Yep, Frisco Melt Dip. Perfect. No point in being halfway messy. Take it to the messy extreme!

There’s nothing fancy going in here. Just great flavor. I’m pretty sure that Cuisinart designed my Griddler just for these sandwiches. Sure, I could’ve gotten out a skillet and toasted these little beauties. But I appear to be challenged at flipping sandwiches in a skillet. It’s the sides that throw me off. The Griddler is just that, a griddle. Wide-open flat spaces. Plenty of room for me to flip and flip well!

Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-IN-1, GR-4NP1
Cuisinart Panini Press, Stainless Steel Griddler, Sandwich Maker & More, 5-IN-1, GR-4NP1

Also try my copycat of Applebee’s classic Patty Melt.

Copycat Steak 'n Shake Frisco Melts
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Copycat Steak ‘n Shake Frisco Melts

What makes a great patty melt? Well, melted cheese, of course. And a tangy sauce. But the most important thing is they have to be messy. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword burgers, copycat, sandwich
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 servings
Calories 980kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Frisco Sauce

For the melts

  • ½ tablespoon canola oil
  • ½ large sweet onion sliced thin
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 8 slices American cheese
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese
  • 8 slices sourdough bread I used Italian bread
  • 1-2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened

Instructions

For the Frisco Sauce

  • Combine the ingredients and refrigerate until ready to use.

For the melts

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the onion and caramelize, cooking for about 20 minutes, stirring often. The onions should turn a nice golden brown. Remove from the pan.
  • Divide the beef into 4 equally-sized patties. Cook them as desired in a skillet or on the grill.
  • Add 1 slice of Swiss cheese and 2 slices of American cheese to each patty and let melt.
  • Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place in a large skillet over medium heat and cook until the butter has melted and the bread is golden crispy.
  • Make sandwiches by spreading Frisco sauce on the unbuttered sides of the bread. Add the patties and onions and top with another piece of bread. Serve.

Notes

Try to flatten your patties out so they cover the bread as much as possible.

Nutrition

Calories: 980kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 47g | Fat: 52g | Saturated Fat: 23g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 148mg | Sodium: 1573mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 661IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 662mg | Iron: 7mg

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)

Grilled Avocados

I cannot stop making these grilled avocados. I’ve fired up the grill a few times lately for dinner, making sure that I also throw a few avocados on. I brushed them with this absolutely insanely great vinaigrette. The flavors are perfect. I had no idea just how fantastic balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard would be on a simple lightly-charred avocado.

Grilled Avocados

They’re Oh So Delicious

I like to make crosshatch cuts into the avocado after I grill it. It lets a little of the vinaigrette get down inside the fruit, making sure you’ll have lots of flavor in each and every bite. You do it before also but I found they get a little soft and a little bit harder to handle.

Don’t use wimpy tools on your grill. Specially when it comes to these avocados. You don’t want to reach in there and grab one hot off the grill only to have it fall onto the ground. You want tongs with some teeth that grip, and grip tight. But not so tight that you ended up making guacamole. Weber’s tools might be more expensive than a lot of the ones on the market, but I can attest to their quality.

Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black
Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black

I love making side dishes on my grill, like Brussels sprouts.

Grilled Avocados
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5 from 1 vote

Grilled Avocados

I cannot stop making these grilled avocados. I’ve fired up the grill a few times lately for dinner, making sure that I also throw a few avocados on. I brushed them with this absolutely insanely great vinaigrette. The flavors are perfect. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword avocado, grilled
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 359kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Robert Irvine

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill for direct cooking.
  • Slice avocados in half and remove the seeds.
  • Brush avocado insides with the oil and season with salt and pepper.
  • Grill avocados for 4 minutes then remove.
  • In a blender combine the balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, Dijon, 1/4 cup parsley, garlic and 3/4 cup olive oil. Process until smooth.
  • Brush vinaigrette over grilled avocados and serve, garnish with parsley.

Notes

Best when served immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 359kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 310mg | Potassium: 1012mg | Fiber: 14g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 576IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush
Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush