Tag: recipe

Buffalo Potato Wedges

If you follow this blog, you know I love Buffalo chicken wings. And anything that reminds me of Buffalo chicken wings. Such as these Buffalo potato wedges. You can’t possibly find anything easier to make, and they taste just like Buffalo chicken wings.

Buffalo Potato Wedges

Buffalo Flavor In Every Bite

I baked the potato wedges, but you could deep fry them also. You could probably also get away with using pre-cooked baked fries. Just toss them in some sauce before serving. Instead of ketchup, serve your Buffalo potato wedges with Ranch for dipping. Or even blue cheese dressing. I don’t think I’d go so far as to add celery and carrot sticks, though.

Frank's RedHot Hot Buffalo Wings Hot Sauce, 12 fl oz
Frank’s RedHot Hot Buffalo Wings Hot Sauce, 12 fl oz

Also try my bacon-wrapped sweet potato bites.

Buffalo Potato Wedges
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4 from 1 vote

Buffalo Potato Wedges

If you follow this blog, you know I love Buffalo chicken wings. And anything that reminds me of Buffalo chicken wings. Such as these Buffalo potato wedges. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword Buffalo, fries, potatoes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 348kcal
Author From the Domestic Superhero

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 425 F.
  • Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.
  • Clean each potato and dry well with a paper towel.
  • Cut potatoes into wedges (the smaller you cut them, the crispier they’ll get). Try to make them all about the same size so they cook in the same time.
  • Place wedges into a large bowl and drizzle with the oil. Toss to coat well.
  • Transfer potatoes to the baking sheet. Spread them out so they do not overlap or touch.
  • Bake potatoes for 30 minutes.
  • Flip each wedge over and bake another 20 minutes until nice and crunchy and golden brown.
  • Meanwhile, warm the wing sauce in a small sauce pan.
  • Transfer cooked wings to a large bowl and drizzle with the wing sauce. Toss to coat.
  • Serve immediately (or the potatoes will get soggy) with Ranch dressing for dipping.

Notes

Of course you can use blue cheese dressing instead!

Nutrition

Calories: 348kcal | Carbohydrates: 78g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 722mg | Potassium: 1798mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 26IU | Vitamin C: 25mg | Calcium: 59mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Spiral Ham 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.

This spiral ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy turned out to be one of the easiest heat-and-eat dishes I’ve ever made. I grabbed a pre-cooked ham on sale at the market, removed it from the bag and put it into the lit cooker. That’s it. I didn’t marinate it, glaze it, talk to it, rub it… nothing. The end result was unbelievably tasty. Still moist and tender, with just a bit of (really yummy) char on the edges. I would (and will) make this again and again. It’s perfect for a crowd and of course, doesn’t take up any room in the oven, making it perfect for a family get-together.

Also try my southern honey glazed ham!

Spiral Ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy

You Couldn’t Get Any Easier

Since this was my first time ‘cooking’ a ham on my Big Easy, I did stick my Maverick thermometer into the end (not touching the bone) to make sure the ham got to 145 F. The ham rose another 10 degrees after removing it from the fryer and resting. The ham needed 10 minutes per pound to reach the proper temperature.

Spiral Ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy

No Glaze Required

I did contemplate glazing the ham the last 10 minutes, but I decided against it. My Big Easy was running around 385-390 F, and the ham was already getting a nice char on it. A glaze (particularly one with brown sugar in it) would definitely turn the ham even blacker, so I skipped it. Turns out I didn’t need it at all. From sandwiches, to omlettes, to quesadillas, this ham was great! You can also cook pressed hams just as easily on the Big Easy.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver
Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver

If you want to kick up your ham with a coffee-infused gravy, check out my red- and black-eyed gravies. My pepper onion beer sauce makes for a great topping for ham!

Spiral Ham on the Char-Broil 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!

Spiral Ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy
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3.13 from 16 votes

Spiral Ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy

This spiral ham on the Char-Broil Big Easy turned out to be one of the easiest heat-and-eat dishes I’ve ever made. I grabbed a pre-cooked ham on sale at the market, removed it from the bag and put it into the lit cooker. That’s it.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, ham
Cook Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings 1 ham
Calories 19440kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 ham pre-cooked spiral, mine weighed 9 pounds

Instructions

  • Fire up your Char-Broil Big Easy.
  • Place the ham into your cook basket, sliced end down.
  • Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145 F, about 10 minutes per pound.
  • Glaze the last 10 minutes if desired, but keep an eye on it. The glaze will char quickly. You just want to set it up a bit.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Fantastic on sandwiches.

Nutrition

Calories: 19440kcal | Protein: 1726g | Fat: 1342g | Saturated Fat: 478g | Cholesterol: 4960mg | Sodium: 94960mg | Potassium: 22880mg | Calcium: 560mg | Iron: 70mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Chicken and Gravy Sandwiches

If you follow this blog you’ll know that my favorite thing to make and eat is a messy sandwich. Or po boy. The messier, the better. The kind of sandwiches that you can’t put down once you pick them up. The kind where the sauces run down the front of your arms. Like these chicken and gravy sandwiches. Tender grilled thin chicken breasts. Seems normal enough. Then you top them with a gravy. Chances are you can make the gravy with items you already have in your pantry. This isn’t complicated, but it’s good.

Chicken and Gravy Sandwiches

Messy Means Good

I served these chicken and gravy sandwiches with additional gravy on the side, like a French dip…. more like a French drip though! They are incredibly messy sandwiches. I believe messier foods taste better. This here is proof of that.

Also try my grilled chicken po boy!

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

This recipe was inspired by a recipe from Rachael Ray.

Chicken and Gravy Sandwiches
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4 from 1 vote

Chicken and Gravy Sandwiches

If you follow this blog you’ll know that my favorite thing to make and eat is a messy sandwich or po boy. The messier, the better. Like this one.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chicken, gravy, sandwich
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 858kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Rachael Ray

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chicken

For the gravy

For the sandwich

  • 1 loaf French bread warmed

Instructions

For the chicken

  • Whisk together the lemon juice and zest, honey, parsley, garlic, and oil. Pour into a large resealable baggie.
  • Season the chicken with salt and pepper and add to the bag. Seal and toss to coat.
  • Place in a large bowl or on a sheet pan in the fridge for 15 minutes.
  • If you are grilling the sandwiches, heat your grill or otherwise heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Working in batches if needed, shake off excess marinade and cook or grill the chicken 5-6 minutes per side, then flip until done. Remove to a plate and let rest while you make the gravy.

For the gravy

  • Melt butter in a sauce pot over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Slowly whisk in the chicken stock. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cook until thickened, 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the mustard.

For the sandwich

  • Slice bread lengthwise.
  • Using tongs, grab the chicken and then dip it into the gravy. Place onto bread.
  • Serve with additional gravy on the side for dipping.

Notes

Have plenty of napkins on hand!

Nutrition

Calories: 858kcal | Carbohydrates: 68g | Protein: 64g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 171mg | Sodium: 991mg | Potassium: 1127mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 338IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 68mg | 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)

Fire-Eater Chicken Enchilada Soup

Yowsa. Or, rather, olé! This fire-eater chicken enchilada soup is some mighty good (and kickin’) soup. As unbelievable as it was, it was even better the second day. This started out as a copycat of Chili’s enchilada soup, but it quickly took several turns towards even greater… greatness. The flavor is fantastic, definitely southwestern. We absolutely loved the texture and flavor the ground tortilla chips (versus using masa harina) gave to the soup.

Fire-Eater Chicken Enchilada Soup

No Boring Soup Here

For the chicken, I used leftover fire-eater roasted chicken. It has tremendous flavor, and is moist to boot. It also added some more kick to this fire-eater chicken enchilada soup, and kick is good. You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, but you might want to add some more cayenne (or hot sauce). You want this dish to have plenty of spicy goodness.

I like to use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make this soup and pretty much darned near anything like it on my stovetop. It’s nice and big and sturdy. That extra weight helps it maintain and distribute heat perfectly. As an added bonus, it’s actually pretty easy to clean up too!

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

This soup is a based on a copycat of Chili’s enchilada soup.

Fire-Eater Chicken Enchilada Soup
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5 from 1 vote

Fire-Eater Chicken Enchilada Soup

Yowsa. Or, rather, olé! This fire-eater chicken enchilada soup is some mighty good (and kickin’) soup.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword soup, southwestern, spicy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 356kcal
Author Based on a copycat of Chili’s Enchilada Soup

Equipment

Ingredients

For the soup

For the garnish

  • Tortilla strips
  • Shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • Pico de gallo or chunky tomato salsa

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven.
  • Add onion and cook until starting to soften.
  • Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  • Add the chicken broth.
  • Mix ground tortilla chips with the water and add to the pot.
  • Add enchilada sauce, cheese, chili powder, cumin, cayenne and hot sauce.
  • Bring to a boil while stirring constantly (or the soup will scorch).
  • Reduce the heat to a simmer.
  • Add chicken and beans.
  • Simmer 30-40 minutes until thickened.
  • Serve with desired garnish.

Notes

Garnish with tortilla strips, sour cream, diced jalapeno… cheese.. anything!

Nutrition

Calories: 356kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 87mg | Sodium: 805mg | Potassium: 322mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 633IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 351mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

I’ve had Buffalo wings on the brain lately. After making some boneless Buffalo ‘wings’ the other day, it occurred to me that the same technique would work great on chicken breasts, resulting in some fantastic Buffalo chicken sandwiches. And as a bonus, they aren’t that messy. Well, a bit maybe.

Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

A Little Heat… But It’s Just Right

These little delights came out moist and tender, with a lightly breaded exterior, just enough heat from the wing sauce, and a little cool-down thanks to some blue cheese salad dressing. They were perfect! Buffalo chicken sandwiches remind me a bit of Nashville hot chicken. But, unlike Nashville hot chicken, they are served up on a bun. Perfect for convenient single-handed devouring!

Frank's RedHot Hot Buffalo Wings Hot Sauce, 12 fl oz
Frank’s RedHot Hot Buffalo Wings Hot Sauce, 12 fl oz

I love anything Buffalo wing-flavored. Even tacos.

Also try my Cajun fried chicken sandwiches.

Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
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4 from 1 vote

Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

These little delights came out moist and tender, with a lightly breaded exterior, just enough heat from the wing sauce, and a little cool-down thanks to some blue cheese salad dressing. They were perfect! 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Buffalo, chicken sandwiches
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 421kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chicken

For the sandwiches

Instructions

  • Note: We like our chicken breasts thin, so I butterfly them and then cut them in half. If you don’t want your chicken thin, feel free to use entire breasts instead. You may have to pound them out so they have a consistent thickness. They may also take longer to cook than the time stated below.

For the chicken

  • Combine the flour, salt, pepper, cayenne, garlic powder and paprika in a pie plate or shallow bowl.
  • Whisk together the egg and milk in another pie plate or shallow bowl.
  • Working in batches, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, coating well.
  • Shake off excess egg mixture and then roll the chicken in the flour mixture, coating well.
  • Shake off excess flour mixture and return the chicken to the egg mixture, coating well.
  • Shake off excess egg mixture and return the chicken to the flour mixture, coating well.
  • Shake off excess flour mixture and place chicken on a plate and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
  • Heat oil in a deep-fryer or Dutch oven to 375 F.
  • Working in batches, fry chicken until golden brown and the chicken is done, 5-6 minutes. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.

For the sandwiches

  • Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Whisk in the wing sauce.
  • Dip chicken into wing sauce, coating both sides. Shake off excess.
  • Place chicken on buns. Top with lettuce and blue cheese dressing.

Notes

You can substitute Ranch dressing for the blue cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 421kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 125mg | Sodium: 2017mg | Potassium: 625mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 506IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 166mg | Iron: 4mg

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

Pulled Pork Tater Tot Nachos

I usually have a little pulled pork leftover after I smoked a pork butt on my Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker. It usually ends up on baked potatoes. Or in stromboli. Or in nachos, like these pulled pork tater tot nachos. Like any nachos, you can go pretty much nuts and put whatever you want on these. I really like the combination of red onion, green chiles, peppadews, black olives, and pinto beans. You get a mix of crunch, heat and salt. The smoked provolone sauce and spicy BBQ sauce really bring it all together.

Pulled Pork Tater Tot Nachos

Over-The-Top Nachos

I actually prefer tater tots (or crispy crowns) in my pulled pork tater tot nachos nachos over tortillas if I’m serving them as a main dish. Tortilla chips work better in an appetizer since they turn the nachos into easy-to-eat finger foods.

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 potato chip nachos and my tater tot potato skins.

Pulled Pork Tater Tot Nachos
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5 from 1 vote

Pulled Pork Tater Tot Nachos

Like any nachos, you can go pretty much nuts and put whatever you want on these. I really like the combination of red onion, green chiles, peppadews, black olives, and pinto beans. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword nachos, pulled pork, tater tots
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 167kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Spread tater tots out on a platter.
  • Top tots with pork.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the onion, olives, peppers, and chiles.
  • Sprinkle mixture over tots.
  • Top with beans and add BBQ and provolone sauces.
  • Devour immediately.

Notes

Also great made with smoked brisket or chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 167kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 485mg | Potassium: 173mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 63IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 28mg | 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)

Maximus Minimus Food Truck Pulled Pork

Maximus Minimus is a food truck based out of Seattle, Washington. I’ve never been to the truck. I caught it on an episode of Eat Street a while back. Sadly, that show is no longer available on the Cooking Channel. I just had to make their pulled pork. It is a different take on the slow smoked pulled pork than I am used to. Instead, the pork is first seared on a grill and then roasted in the oven until done and fall-apart tender. The result is a fantastic crusted meat festival that is perfect on everything from BBQ sandwiches…

Maximus Minimus Pork Sandwiches

to Cuban sandwiches.

Maximus Minimus Pork Cuban Sandwiches

Never Pass Up A Food Truck

If you live somewhere where there are food trucks, I encourage you to venture out and give them a visit if you haven’t already. Here in Indy we have a number of great trucks, offering everything from Cajun to Caribbean to donuts and cupcakes.

I like to use my good ole trusty Dutch oven to make this pulled pork and pretty much darned near anything like it on my stovetop. It’s nice and big and sturdy. That extra weight helps it maintain and distribute heat perfectly. As an added bonus, it’s actually pretty easy to clean up too!

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

Also try my southwestern pulled pork with pineapple.

Maximus Minimus Pork Sandwiches
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Maximus Minimus Food Truck Pulled Pork

This is a different take on the slow smoked pulled pork than I am used to. Instead, the pork is first seared on a grill and then roasted in the oven until done and fall-apart tender.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword pulled pork
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 16 hours
Servings 8
Calories 338kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine the seasonings and rub into the pork shoulder.
  • Place in a resealable container or wrap in foil and refrigerate overnight.
  • Fire up your grill for high-heat cooking and preheat your oven to 325 F. (Alternatively, you can use a crockpot set to ‘high’).
  • Place shoulder onto the grill and sear on each side until browned, 10-15 minutes per side.
  • Transfer pork to a Dutch oven or the crockpot and cook 3-4 hours until falling apart tender. You will not have to add any liquid.
  • Let the meat rest 15-30 minutes then shred.

Notes

If your Dutch oven lid doesn’t seal completely, cover the top with a piece of foil and then add the lid.

Nutrition

Calories: 338kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 3832mg | Potassium: 794mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 4677IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 117mg | Iron: 5mg

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

Italian Meatballs on the Char-Broil Big Easy

I use my Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-less Turkey Fryer a lot, for cooking everything from chicken wings to roasting peppers to these Italian meatballs. This Italian meatballs recipe is our favorite. We make a big batch of 24 or so 2 ounce meatballs and cook them all at once. We used to cook them in the oven, but now with the Big Easy (and the Wingin’ator 3000 modification) I can cook a huge batch all at once in less than 30 minutes, without any cleanup other than putting the cook basket into the dishwasher. You can’t get any easier than that!

Italian Meatballs on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Get A Bunk Bed Basket… Now!

If you don’t have a Wingin’ator 3000 you can get a bunk bed basket for the Big Easy. You won’t be able to cook quite as many Italian meatballs at once, but they’ll turn out fantastic nonetheless.

Italian Meatballs on the Char-Broil Big Easy 1

Done. Perfectly.

The meatballs are done when they hit 165 F. If you’ve loaded up your Big Easy with a lot of meatballs at once, check a few meatballs for doneness before deciding that they are all done.

Italian Meatballs on the Char-Broil Big Easy 2

These meatballs are great on rolls with your favorite sauce, or over pasta. I like to make a huge batch and freeze them. They’re great to always have on hand.

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

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

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.

Italian Meatballs on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Italian Meatballs on the Char-Broil Big Easy

I use my Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-less Turkey Fryer a lot, for cooking everything from chicken wings to roasting peppers to these Italian meatballs. This Italian meatballs recipe is our favorite. We make a big batch of 24 or so 2 ounce meatballs and cook them all at once.
Course Main
Cuisine Italian
Keyword meatballs
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 0.2kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Spray the basket(s) (and Wingin’ator 3000 if you’re using one) with no-stick spray.
  • Add the meatballs, but do not crowd them. I was able to fit 28 meatballs on the Wingin’ator 3000 without any problem, and could’ve easily fit a few more. Without the Wingin’ator 3000 you’ll be able to fit at least 10 meatballs at once (with the bunk basket).
  • Cook in the Big Easy for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature on several of the balls measures 165 F.

Notes

When cooking on multiple levels, the Big Easy might get some meatballs done before others.

Nutrition

Calories: 0.2kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.003g | Protein: 0.02g | Fat: 0.01g | Saturated Fat: 0.004g | Cholesterol: 0.1mg | Sodium: 0.4mg | Sugar: 0.001g | Calcium: 0.1mg | Iron: 0.002mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Fire-Eater Chicken Mac-and-Cheese

I made a big ole batch of fire-eater chicken the other day. It has a really nice kick to it. Besides sandwiches and other great uses for the chicken, I made this insanely good fire-eater chicken mac-and-cheese. It’s based on a Buffalo chicken mac-and-cheese recipe, so you know that it’s great. And you don’t have to use fire-eater chicken, any roasted (or rotisserie) chicken will do, but I highly recommend the kicked-up flavor of the fire-eater version.

Fire-Eater Chicken Mac-and-Cheese

Creamy Crunchy Spiciness

This fire-eater chicken mac-and-cheese is creamy, like it should be. And crunchy, thanks to the celery and panko breadcrumbs. And it has a kick to it. Just like I like. We’ve all had the standard mac-and-cheese. It’s time to add some spice!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

Also try my 20-minute mac-and-cheese.

Fire-Eater Chicken Mac-and-Cheese
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Fire-Eater Chicken Mac-and-Cheese

I made this insanely good fire-eater chicken mac-and-cheese. It’s based on a Buffalo chicken mac-and-cheese recipe, so you know that it’s great. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, spicy
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 844kcal
Author Based on a recipe from The Food Network

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 stalks celery finely chopped
  • 3 cups fire-eater chicken shredded or chopped , or substitute rotisserie chicken
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ¾ cup hot sauce or Buffalo wing sauce, divided
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons dry mustard
  • 2 ½ cups half-and-half
  • 1 pound extra sharp cheddar cheese cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 ounces pepper jack cheese shredded (about 2 cups)
  • â…” cup sour cream
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup blue cheese crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons parsley chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 F.
  • Salt a large pot of water and cook the macaroni until al dente, about 7 minutes.
  • Drain well.
  • Spray a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Melt 3 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the celery and onion.
  • Cook until soft, 5 minutes.
  • Add the chicken and garlic and cook 2 more minutes.
  • Add 1/2 cup of the hot or wing sauce and stir.
  • Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.
  • In another small skillet or saucepan, melt 2 more tablespoons of the butter.
  • Whisk in the flour and mustard until smooth.
  • Slow pour in the half-and-half while whisking continuously.
  • Whisk in the remaining hot or wing sauce and simmer until the sauce starts to thicken.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the cheeses and sour cream until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
  • Pour half of the macaroni into the baking dish and spread out evenly.
  • Top with the chicken mixture.
  • Add the remaining macaroni.
  • Pour the cheese mixture over the top and spread out evenly.
  • In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter.
  • Add the panko, blue cheese and parsley.
  • Stir and pour evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture.
  • Bake 30-40 minutes or until bubbly hot.
  • Let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Drizzle with a bit of hot sauce for a nice kick!

Nutrition

Calories: 844kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 54g | Saturated Fat: 33g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 155mg | Sodium: 1324mg | Potassium: 430mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1666IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 802mg | 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)

Okra Giardiniera

I was toodling around the house the other day, with the TV on in the background. A young lady said something about “okra giardiniera”. I instantly stopped what I was doing. I grabbed the Tivo remote and backed the show up a bit to see what exactly “okra giardiniera” was.

The show was Kimberly’s Simply Southern on the GAC network, and Miss Kimberly (from the country group Little Big Town) was making hot dogs topped with okra giardiniera. I made it too. I had to. Because it has okra in it.

Okra Giardiniera

Your Patience Will Be Rewarded

It takes 2 days to make the mix, so don’t get in too big of a rush. But it is so worth the time. The end result is lightly pickled (not too strong on the vinegar), with a little oil (almost like an olive salad), and with a lot of crunch. And don’t fear the okra slime… you can rinse almost all of it away after the first day. Personally, I’ll eat okra any time, any way, full slime or not (see my Southern fried okra and my okra and tomatoes).

Oh, and I went with bigger cuts on the veggies just to get more crunch. That’s just me, you can make them as big or as small as you want.

Lucy's Family Owned - Natural Distilled White Vinegar, 1 Gallon (128 oz) - 5% Acidity (White Vinegar, 1 Gallon (128 fl oz.))
Lucy’s Family Owned – Natural Distilled White Vinegar, 1 Gallon (128 oz) – 5% Acidity (White Vinegar, 1 Gallon (128 fl oz.))

Next up, I’m going to top a muffuletta sandwich with this giardiniera. I know it’ll be outstanding!

Also try some pickled black-eyed peas! Yummy!

Okra Giardiniera
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5 from 1 vote

Okra Giardiniera

It takes 2 days to make the mix, so don’t get in too big of a big rush. But it is so worth the time. 
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Keyword okra, salad
Prep Time 1 day
Total Time 1 day
Servings 4 cups
Calories 536kcal
Author From Kimberly Schlapman

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

Day 1

  • Place the salt, okra, carrots, jalapeños, garlic, celery and red bell peppers into a resealable container.
  • Add enough cold water to just cover the vegetables.
  • Seal and place in the fridge overnight.

Day 2

  • Pour the mixture into a cauldron and rinse well. You can mix the vegetables a bit to get them really rinsed well (read: remove any okra slime), but don't be too aggressive or all of the tasty okra seeds will fly out.
  • Return vegetables to the resealable container.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, oil, oregano, and pepper.
  • Pour over the vegetables and stir gently to combine.
  • Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Notes

The giardiniera will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 536kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 56g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 7087mg | Potassium: 219mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1291IU | Vitamin C: 57mg | Calcium: 61mg | 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)