Cashew chicken is a quick and easy chicken stir fry meal that you can whip up at home in under 30 minutes. Juicy and tender chicken and fresh vegetables are stir fried and smothered in a garlicky, sweet and savory Asian sauce with crunchy cashews. This Chinese restaurant takeout favorite is so much better, healthier, and faster than ordering takeout (and cheaper too!). Favorful homemade cashew chicken is perfect for busy weeknights when you are looking to make a quick dinner that's absolutely delicious.
Why You'll Love Cashew Chicken
- Better than takeout. You could fool anyone with this cashew chicken recipe because it's so good and tastes like you paid someone to cook it for you (and deliver it right to your door). It tastes absolutely delicious with ingredients that you know, it's faster than getting delivery, and it's cheaper. You might be tempted to never order takeaway again.
- Chicken and cashews are the perfect pair. Nuts are an amazing superfood, and we're quick to throw them in salads or smoothies, but we tend to shy away from nuts when cooking up proteins. Not today. The juicy and tender saucy chicken and crunchy cashews complement each other so well regarding both flavor and texture. You might start adding cashews to all your chicken stir fries!
- It's so quick easy to make. One of my favorite things about Chinese cuisine, and stir fries in particular, is that its so quick to make. You may spend some time prepping and chopping vegetables, but the entire process from prep to table takes less than 30 minutes! It's easy to prep, easy to make, easy to clean up after, and it's incredibly easy to enjoy. The best takeaway fakeaway ever!
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this delicious and easy cashew chicken, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- chicken - use boneless and skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs. I like using thighs in chicken stir fries because they are more tender.
- vegetable oil - feel free to use any vegetable oil that you have on hand. I typically use avocado oil.
- salt
- cornstarch - or substitute with all-purpose flour.
- bell peppers - I used green and red bell peppers. Feel free to use any colors that you like.
- roasted cashews
- green onions - optional, for garnish.
- white sesame seeds - optional, for garnish.
- sauce - made with soy sauce (or substitute with oyster sauce), rice vinegar (or mirin), chicken broth (or water), brown sugar (or honey), ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons and a large skillet.
How to Make the Best Cashew Chicken
- Prepare the chicken. Use a paper towel to pat dry the chicken completely dry. Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes. Transfer the chicken to a mixing bowl and add 1 tablespoon oil, salt, and cornstarch. Stir well to coat evenly.
- Cook chicken. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the hot oil sizzles, about 1 minute. Add chicken and sauté until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken onto a plate.
- Sauté the vegetables. In the same skillet, add bell peppers and sauté over medium heat until tender, about 2-3 minutes
- Make the sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, chicken broth, sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Add sauce. Stir in the sauce mixture and let it simmer over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until thickened to a desired consistency, stirring constantly.
- Add chicken and cashews. Add the cooked chicken and cashews and toss well to coat, about 1 minute. (Do not overcook the cashews, which will make them soggy).
- Serve. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds and serve immediately with a bowl of steamed rice or fried rice.
How to Cook Cashew Chicken in the Instant Pot
- Pat dry chicken breasts completely with a paper towel and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, chicken broth, sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil and cornstarch until smooth.
- Add chicken and sauce mixture in the instant pot. Seal the lid and turn the steam release knob to SEAL position. Pressure cook for 6 minutes. Once the time is up, quick release the remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position.
- Turn on sauté on high and stir in bell peppers. Cook for 2-3 minutes until tender and the sauce thickens to a desired consistency.
- Stir in cashews and toss to coat. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions and serve warm with a bowl of steamed rice.
Storing Instructions
- How to store: Keep any leftover cashew chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. Allow it to cool before storing, or else the veggies and cashews may get soggy.
- How to reheat: Cashew chicken is best served fresh because that's when the cashews are crunchiest. Once stored and reheated, the cashews will get softer. To reheat leftover cashew chicken, place it on a pan over the stove. Stir fry the chicken and veggies on medium-low heat until warmed through. Cover the pan to speed up the cooking time. You can also reheat cold cashew chicken in the microwave. Heat the chicken in a microwave-safe dish covered in plastic wrap on a medium or low heat setting for about 3 minutes, until warmed through.
More Asian Chicken Recipes
- 60 Chinese Takeout Recipes at Home
- General Tso's Chicken
- Teriyaki Chicken
- Kung Pao Chicken
- Baked Sesame Chicken
- Mongolian Chicken
- Healthy Lemon Chicken
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
50 Sunday Dinner Ideas
Sunday dinners are one of our favorite meals to serve in the entire week. It's all about spending quality time with family and friends and enjoying the best comfort food to end the week right. Whether you are looking for delicious family-friendly dinner recipes that are meaty and hearty, something creamy and cheesy, or easy recipes that you can throw into the Instant Pot or Slow Cooker to spend less time in the kitchen, this is what Sunday dinner recipes are all about. So if you are wondering "what to cook on Sundays", we are sharing over 50 of our most popular and best Sunday dinner ideas including comforting dinners like soups, stews, and casseroles, meaty Sunday main dishes, seafood recipes, delicious side dishes, and more!
Best Sunday Dinner Ideas
There's nothing better than a classic Pot Roast for Sunday Dinner. It's hearty, wholesome, and filling comfort food that can feed the whole family.
Classic easy meat lasagna is the ultimate Italian comfort food with layers of tender lasagna, meaty tomato sauce, cheese filling and melted cheese on top. One of my favorite Sunday dinner ideas.
Homemade chicken pot pie is loaded with a delicious, creamy, savory filling contained by a crispy, buttery, and flaky pie crust. It stores and freezes well.
Beef stroganoff is a delicious, flavorful, and comforting Russian pasta dish that is ready in under 25 minutes. The perfect weeknight dinner.
Skillet shepherd's pie is a savoury and hearty traditional comfort food. With flavourful beef and fluffy potatoes, this cozy meal it will warm you up.
One Pot Coconut Curry Beef Stew
Warm and cozy, easy one pot coconut curry beef stew is hearty yet creamy, packed with tender beef chunks, potatoes and carrots, and creamy coconut milk.
Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar
Quick and easy, creamy stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is a delicious and comforting one pot 20-minute meal packed with three types of cheese. A family-friendly Sunday dinner idea.
This hearty classic meatloaf with a caramelized glaze will nourish your body and soul. Feed the whole family with a simple yet flavourful classic winter dinner.
Glazed Honey Balsamic Pork Chops
Quick and easy, glazed honey balsamic pork chops are tender and juicy, seared in thyme and coated with a honey balsamic sauce. Make it in under 30 minutes for one of the easiest winter dinner ideas.
Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti)
Pasta bake with sausage (baked ziti) is a lazy day lasagna with layers of pasta tossed in a rich meat sauce, layered with mozzarella, and baked. The perfect winter dinner for families.
White chicken chili is an easy and delicious one pot meal made with shredded chicken, hearty veggies, and a creamy broth that's loaded with flavor. One of my absolute favorite winter dinner ideas.
Homemade hamburger helper is a family favorite but you can make a cheaper, healthier, and way tastier version at home, ready in just 30 minutes.
Sunday Dinner Main Courses
Pesto whole chicken baked over a bed of vegetables is the juiciest and most flavorful chicken you'll ever taste. Quick and easy to prep and pop in the oven.
Air Fryer Breaded Fried Chicken Wings
The best breaded fried chicken wings - extra crispy and crunchy outside, tender and juicy inside. You can't even tell they're air fried, not deep-fried!
Delicious, comforting homemade Swedish meatballs are seared and smothered in a creamy gravy sauce and taste so much better than IKEA meatballs.
Slow cooker BBQ ribs are juicy, saucy, and tender - the meat literally falls right off the bone. Add this easy recipe to your list of crockpot recipes.
Baked parmesan crusted chicken is breaded in a herby parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked until crispy perfection. So flavourful and delicious.
Lasagna roll ups are a twist on traditional lasagna. Lasagna noodles are filled with cheese and meat sauce and rolled up. Make ahead and freezer-friendly!
Harissa spatchcock chicken (butterflied chicken) is juicy and tender, has the crispiest skin, and is packed with flavor from red pepper harissa paste.
Meatballs are probably my favorite of all ground beef recipes. These quick, easy homemade Italian meatballs are juicy, flavourful, and delicious, simmered in a rich and savoury tomato sauce. Make them in just 30 minutes.
Creamy Chicken Broccoli and Quinoa Casserole
Nothing says comfort food better than a creamy chicken, broccoli and quinoa casserole made with fresh and healthy ingredients.
Homemade roast beef is roasted on high heat and slow cooked on low heat for the best texture - browned crust on the outside and tender, moist, juicy inside.
Creamy White Chicken and Spinach Lasagna
Creamy white chicken and spinach lasagna with tender shredded chicken is the most comforting creamiest cheesiest white lasagna. Easy to make ahead & freeze.
Dutch Oven Whole Roast Chicken
Easy Dutch oven whole roast chicken with the crispiest golden skin is juicy, tender and succulent and packed with flavour. Just takes 15 minutes to prep.
Sunday Dinner Seafood Recipes
Easy, garlicky and buttery grilled shrimp boil with prawns, corn, baby potatoes and sausage, seasoned and tossed with parsley takes just 20 minutes to cook. Throw some whole potatoes on the grill too and serve this with some BBQ Chicken Stuffed Baked Potatoes.
Tender, flaky, flavorful garlic butter salmon is well-seasoned, seared to perfection, and basted until juicy. Quick and easy to make in 20 minutes.
Creamy Tuscan shrimp packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic, is creamy, rich, and delicious. Make it in just 15 minutes, including prep! One of the best Sunday dinner ideas.
Garlicky, buttery, and perfectly seared scallops take less than 10 minutes to prep and cook. It's the easiest fancy, restaurant-grade meal to make at home and one of my favorite New Year's dinner ideas.
Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Bake
Creamy shrimp fettuccine alfredo pasta bake is garlicky, buttery, cheesy, loaded with shrimp + parsley and topped with mozzarella. Easy comfort food goals.
Creamy garlic salmon is a quick easy one-pan meal ready in under 30 minutes, with seared flaky tender salmon tossed in a delicious creamy garlic sauce.
Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes
Creamy shrimp pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a delicious, quick and easy meal that takes just 20 minutes to prep and make. The perfect weeknight dinner. | aheadofthyme.com
Flavourful, easy fish tacos with lime crema is made with seasoned white fish, cabbage slaw, and lime sauce. It takes less than 25 minutes to prep and serve.
Sunday Dinner Ideas in the Crockpot or Instant Pot
Instant pot whole chicken with gravy is tender, juicy, and flavorful. It's the fastest way to cook a whole rotisserie chicken for dinner in just 40 minutes.
Hearty slow cooker beef chili is an easy, comforting, low-maintenance dinner in fall and winter months. It's a family favourite crockpot chili.
Instant pot beef curry with potatoes and carrots is delicious, hearty, comforting, and flavorful. It's made quick and easy in the pressure cooker.
Instant pot turkey breast is the most tender and juicy turkey you'll ever try. It's so easy to make in the pressure cooker and requires little prep.
Instant pot mashed potatoes are the quickest and easiest mashed potatoes you'll make in under 20 minutes (including prep!) in the pressure cooker.
Slow cooker Korean short ribs deliver complex Asian flavours with little effort. Simply add your ingredients in the crockpot and let it cook dinner for you.
Side Dishes for Sunday Dinner
Easy creamy ham and potatoes au gratin is a great way to use leftover ham with tender sliced potatoes and a cheesy béchamel sauce. The best comfort food for Sunday dinner.
Fresh, crisp, classic coleslaw salad is a must-have recipe for a summer barbecue or picnic, or as an easy make-ahead lunch. Make it in less than 10 minutes.
These crispy smashed potatoes are the perfect side dish. They're easy to make, crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside, and so flavorful.
Flaky, fluffy, buttery, and soft, these easy homemade biscuits come together with only a handful of ingredients you already have at home!
Broccoli cheese casserole is creamy, cheesy, and delicious - the most comforting side dish. It's crispy on the outside but soft and tender inside.
The Best and Creamiest Mashed Potatoes.
Creamy, buttery, and delicious, this is the best and creamiest mashed potatoes recipe you will ever find. It's velvety, smooth, and melts in your mouth.
Creamy corn casserole is a comforting side dish that is creamy, savory, slightly sweet, and filling - a classic and traditional holiday side.
Creamy beef wild rice soup is savory, flavorful, and delicious, packed with vegetables and beef flank steak (or leftover roast beef!), and freezes well.
Flaky Garlic Cheddar Biscuits are a simple but delicious and flavorful no yeast bread that is ready for the oven with less than 15 minutes prep.
Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, indulgent side dish that will make cheese lovers swoon. Every bite is savory, rich, comforting, and delicious.
More Dinner Recipes
- 60+ Easy Dinner Ideas
- 60+ Healthy Dinner Ideas
- 60 Vegetarian Dinner Recipes
- 50 Best Chicken Breast Recipes
- 40 Best Pasta Recipes
- 60 Best Soup Recipes
Did You Make Any of These Sunday Dinner Recipes?
Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of easy Sunday dinner ideas. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.
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50 Best Healthy Snacks
Looking for healthy snacks that you can make at home that are easy and delicious? Whether you are craving something that is savory and salty, sweet and fruity, rich and creamy, or nutty and crunchy, I have got you covered with over 50 of the most popular and best healthy snacks that you can make at home. So next time you want to reach for the cookie jar (even though there is nothing wrong with that!), try some healthy snack recipes that will give you energy and keep you full throughout the day, including snacks by the handful, easy dips and spreads, healthy baked goods and bread, smoothies, savory snacks, and more! Plus, there are lots of vegan and gluten-free options to choose from too.
Our Most Popular Healthy Snacks
Homemade popcorn from scratch is quick and easy to make, a delicious and healthy snack, and is completely customizable with your favorite seasonings.
Tex Mex egg muffins are a delicious, filling, and healthy breakfast or snack. They are light and fluffy, perfect for meal prep, and freezer-friendly.
Antipasto skewers with tortellini are a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer with the best parts of a traditional antipasto platter but easier to eat.
No Bake Protein-Packed Energy Bites
No bake protein-packed breakfast energy bites are chewy, easy to make, delicious, and loaded with healthy nutrients. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Whip up smooth and creamy classic hummus dip at home in just 5 minutes, by combining chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic in the blender. Serve it with veggies or crackers, or use it in a vegan hummus wrap.
This homemade veggie tray is a quick easy healthy snack or appetizer to make for your next party, with a variety of colorful vegetables and delicious dips.
This Berry Smoothie Bowl is the best way to start the day. It's quick and easy to make, healthy, and packed with nutrients. Customize it with toppings!
Blueberry yogurt muffins are buttery, moist, soft, and cakey and bursting with blueberries in every single bite. They are super quick and easy to make.
Classic deviled eggs are a simple, easy, and healthy appetizer to make when you need something quick for brunch, picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or Easter.
Healthy Snacks by the Handful
Homemade tortilla strips are crispy, crunchy, delicious, and easy to make using 3 simple ingredients. Serve as a snack or a topping on soups and salad.
Cinnamon Apple Granola is quick and easy to make, tastes like apple pie, and is much better than store-bought - plus easier to make than you think! Some of my other favourite granolas to make are Pumpkin Pie Granola and Gingerbread Granola.
One-ingredient homemade baked apple chips are healthy, light, crispy and crave-worthy. Plus, unlike most store-bought chips, these contain no added sugar.
Say goodbye to store-bought popcorn and hello to homemade Kettle Corn - sweet and salty, loved by all, and quick and easy to make with just 4 ingredients.
Enjoy street vendor roasted chestnuts at home in three different ways - roast in the oven, cook over the stove, or in the air fryer.
The easiest thing to fill up those lunch-boxes with are chewy almond cranberry granola bars. They are chewy and delicious, contain real dried fruit, and made healthier with less processed sugar. For a different flavour, try almond butter granola bars or pecan toffee bars.
Quick and easy gingerbread granola with nuts, cranberries and warm winter spices is vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free. The best Christmas snack.
Quick and easy sourdough discard crackers are thin, crispy, crunchy and flavoured with sesame seeds, dried herbs and flaked salt. They are so addictive.
Wholesome and healthy pumpkin energy bites are a delicious, gluten-free and vegan alternative to pumpkin pie. Easy to whip up with just 15 minutes prep.
Gluten-free rice croutons are a delicious, crunchy, and chewy homemade snack with the same texture as the best part of rice - the crispy bottom of the pot!
Quick and easy pumpkin pie granola packed with oats, pumpkin, pumpkin spice, and nuts, is vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free. The best fall snack.
Healthy Dips and Spreads
Incredibly tasty, this easy and basic guacamole takes less than 5 minutes to make. It is the perfect healthy snack dip.
Light and airy, whipped ricotta dip is so easy to make in just 5 minutes with a few fresh ingredients including fresh herbs, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
Easy 5-minute pico de gallo chunky salsa is packed with fresh tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice (and optional jalapeños for a spicy kick).
Quick and easy avocado hummus is creamy, smooth, healthy, and delicious. Loaded with chickpeas and avocado, it's the perfect blend of hummus and guacamole.
Easy Tzatziki Sauce (Cucumber Yogurt Dip)
Light and fresh, easy tzatziki sauce is a creamy yogurt cucumber dip packed with fresh cucumbers, garlic, dill, lemon juice and olive oil. So easy to make.
Baba ganoush is a creamy, roasted eggplant dip mixed with garlic and tahini for an explosion of flavour! It is perfect served with pita chips or veggies.
Marinara sauce is rich, vibrant, and loaded with flavor. It's easy to make with a few simple fresh ingredients. Serve as a dip or in pasta and pizza.
Olive tapenade is a delicious, flavorful, easy dip that comes together in minutes, made with the perfect combination of sharp, tangy, salty, and savory.
Smooth and creamy pesto hummus is a healthy, delicious and flavourful dip that is easy to make in just 5 minutes. It's vegan and gluten-free.
Fresh mango salsa is sweet, tangy, and delicious. It's a quick and easy recipe that you can whip up with just 6 ingredients and in under 10 minutes.
Whipped feta is light, airy, and fluffy. It's an easy yet impressive recipe that takes only 5 minutes to make in a blender with 3 simple ingredients.
Healthy Baked Goods and Bread
Healthy banana bread is delicious and moist and contains no refined sugar or butter. Quick and easy to make with 10 minutes prep and few pantry staples.
The best quick and easy salted soft pretzels are buttery, salty, and so delicious. They are golden brown and chewy on the outside, yet warm and soft inside.
Glazed lemon blueberry scones are total breakfast goals. Blueberries and lemon partner together in a light, tender and flakey scone, drizzled with a sweet lemon glaze that is nothing short of impressive.
Quick and easy zucchini muffins are loaded with fresh zucchini which makes them fluffy, moist, delicious, and full of nutrients. Freezer-friendly too!
Peanut Butter Banana Toast is an incredibly simple yet healthy breakfast that's ready in a just 5 minutes. It's quick, satisfying, and protein-packed.
Easy Homemade Everything Bagels
Easy homemade everything bagels with a signature everything bagel seasoning blend on top are just like bakery-style bagels and so easy to make at home.
Buttery, soft and moist, cranberry yogurt muffins are packed with tarty and sweet cranberries in every single bite. This breakfast ideas is great for breakfast, snack or dessert.
Homemade applesauce bread is fluffy, moist, and delicious. Loaded with fall flavors that transforms your favorite snack into a loaf cake.
Healthy Smoothies and Fruit
Majoon Banana and Date Smoothie
Majoon banana and date smoothie is a delicious and healthy all-natural energy drink with bananas, dates and nuts. The perfect breakfast or snack.
Layer fresh fruits, creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola to make this fruit and yogurt parfait for a delicious and healthy breakfast or a simple snack. It's one of the easiest breakfast ideas.
Healthy mango yogurt smoothie is refreshing, delicious, and healthy. Loaded with tropical mangos and low-fat yogurt, it's the perfect breakfast on the go.
Quick and easy strawberry banana smoothie is the perfect breakfast on the go or refreshing snack. It's fruity, delicious, and packed with nutrients.
This green smoothie bowl is healthy, delicious, and nutritious. It's quick and easy to make in just minutes, for a quick energy boost to start the day.
Thick and creamy homemade yogurt is so easy to make at home with just 2 ingredients, a heavy pot, and just a few minutes of actual hands on prep work.
Add something refreshing to brunch with this Summer Fruit Salad. It's colorful, delicious, and naturally sweet (no processed sugar!). It's easy to make with fresh fruit tossed in a homemade dressing.
Healthy Apple Pie Fall Smoothie
The best way to get your "apple-a-day" daily is in a healthy apple pie fall smoothie! Ready in 5 minutes, it's got the taste of an apple pie, without all the calories.
Mango Pineapple Tropical Smoothie Bowl
Mango pineapple tropical smoothie bowl? Yes, please! Who doesn't love pineapples and mangos blended together and topped with more fruit, granola, and coconut?
Savory Healthy Snacks
Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Chicken
Vietnamese summer rolls with chicken are fresh, light, and healthy. This Asian snack is a healthy lunch idea that takes less than 20 minutes to make and way easier than you think.
Homemade falafel are delicious, golden brown and crispy on the outside, fluffy tender and soft inside. Plus, they're vegan, loaded with plant-based protein.
Shrimp avocado tostadas are a delicious, crunchy, quick and easy Mexican dish you can make in just 15 minutes, loaded with the best combination of toppings.
Baked Zucchini Boats with Marinara and Cheese
Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Marinara will save your weeknight dinner routine (and the kids love it too!). It's low carb, vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto.
Turkey pinwheels are bite-sized finger food perfection and will make back-to-school lunch planning for the kids a total breeze. They are fully customizable and you can wrap them up in a tortilla or in pita bread.
Easy Tomato Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze
Tomato bruschetta with balsamic glaze is an easy Italian appetizer topped with tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil and olive oil. Delicious, fresh and simple. The perfect light Super Bowl recipe.
Mexican Tuna Cakes (Tortitas de Atun)
Mexican tuna cakes, or tortitas de atun, are quick, easy, and delicious. Made with canned tuna, these tuna patties come together in about 20 minutes.
Vietnamese Salad Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
Fresh, light and healthy Vietnamese salad rolls are packed with vermicelli noodles, shrimp, fresh vegetables and herbs and dipped in homemade peanut sauce.
Healthy Snack Tips
- Make ahead and freezer-friendly. You can make some of these easy healthy snacks ahead of time and store at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a few days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Check individual post for full make ahead and storing instructions.
- Prep in advance. You can also make things easier by prepping ingredients in advance and storing in the fridge until ready to use.
More Healthy Recipes
- 60+ Healthy Dinner Ideas
- 50+ Healthy Lunch Ideas
- 45 Best Keto Recipes
- 15 Best Salmon Recipes
- 60 Best Chicken Recipes
- 40 Best Shrimp Recipes
Did You Make Any of These Healthy Snack Recipes?
Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of the best healthy snacks we have to offer. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.
HUNGRY FOR MORE? Don't forget to sign up for my email newsletter so that you don't miss any recipes. You can also follow along on Instagram and Pinterest for more recipe updates.
Chocolate and Vanilla Marble Cake
Chocolate and vanilla marble cake is delicious, moist, and fluffy with the perfect golden brown crust. With two classic cake flavors, this marble loaf cake has the best of both worlds - chocolate and vanilla. Plus, it's easy to make with the quick batter coming together in just 10 minutes before ready to pop into the oven. Serve this treat when you are entertaining friends over alongside a cup of coffee or tea, part of an epic brunch spread, or after dinner when you are craving a late night sugar fix.
Why You'll Love Chocolate and Vanilla Marble Cake
- Two flavors in one. The best part about a marble cake is that we get two cake flavors in one cake. Chocolate and vanilla. But the best part is that we use real chocolate in here (not cocoa powder) for a cake that delivers a rich and true flavor in every bite.
- Perfect marble swirls. Most marble cakes require you to pour in the vanilla batter, then the chocolate, and top with more vanilla before you swirl it all together. For the best swirls, we use a dollop method where we create a checkerboard pattern before swirling together. This ensures you get both flavors in every slice with the perfect marbled effect.
- The best texture. This marble loaf cake has the perfect soft, tender, and fluffy center, with a crunchy golden brown crust. It has the best of both words, like all cakes should be. You can serve it as is or top with buttercream icing, a chocolate ganache, or a simple dusting of confectioners' sugar.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this delicious chocolate and vanilla marble cake, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in recipe card below):
- all-purpose flour
- baking powder + soda
- salt
- semi-sweet chocolate
- butter
- granulated sugar
- eggs
- vanilla extract
- milk - you can substitute this with buttermilk. You can also add an additional ¾ cup plain yogurt for an extra moist cake.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, hand mixer (or stand mixer), and standard 1.5 lb. loaf pan.
How to Make the Best Vanilla and Chocolate Marble Cake
- Prep ingredients. In a medium mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Melt the chocolate in a small bowl. You can melt it by placing the bowl on a steamer basket, over a small pot of boiling water, or melt in the microwave in 30 second increments, stirring between each increment until melted and smooth. Set aside.
- Make the vanilla cake batter. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer (or stand mixer) to beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, and beat until each is incorporated. Add vanilla extract and beat until incorporated. Turn the mixer to low speed and add half the flour mixture, and beat until combined. Add the milk and beat until combined. Finally add the remaining flour, and beat until combined.
- Make the chocolate cake batter. Remove 2 cups of the cake batter and transfer to another bowl. Stir in the melted chocolate.
- Assemble the marble cake. Spray a 1.5 lb. loaf pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Use a large spoon and drop alternating dollops of vanilla and chocolate batter into the prepared loaf pan in a checkerboard pattern. After you have completed one layer, use a toothpick or skewer to lightly swirl into each other.
- Repeat. Repeat with alternating dollops until you have used up all the batter. Take a toothpick and do a final swirl to create the marble effect, but be careful not to overdo it. Just a few swirls will do the trick.
- Bake. Bake in a 350F preheated oven for 1 hour 20 minutes, or when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to chill in the pan for 15 minutes, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift it from the pan and place onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Do not overbake. If you overbake, the cake will get too dry. The best way to test that your cake is done is to check it with a toothpick. Once the toothpick comes out completely clean, it's time to take out the cake.
- Use real chocolate. With real chocolate (vs. cocoa powder), you will get the rich, true flavour of chocolate that just cannot be replicated with cocoa powder.
- How to store: Store this marble loaf cake at room temperature for a few days or keep it in the fridge for up to five days. Either way, ensure it's in an airtight container, so it doesn't get stale.
- How to freeze: This vanilla and chocolate marble cake freezes well too. Wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly with plastic cling wrap and then store in a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Allow the cake to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, or place or on the kitchen counter for a few hours until defrosted.
More Cake Recipes
- 50 Best Cake Recipes
- Carrot Bundt Cake
- Chocolate Zucchini Cake
- Moist Chocolate Cupcakes
- Moist Vanilla Cupcakes
- Lemon Loaf with Lemon Glaze
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
25 Side Dishes for Steak
Looking for a delicious side dish to serve with that juicy steak that you are making for dinner tonight? Steak is one of the most popular meat to cook and can easily be taking to a new level with the perfect steak side dishes. So if you are wondering "what to serve with steak", then you are in the right place. We are sharing over 25 of the most popular and best side dishes for steak including all the potato side dishes, roasted veggies, air fryer side dishes, side salads, bread rolls, and more steak sides.
Best Steak Side Dishes
Quick and easy, 90-minute cheesy garlic dinner rolls are soft and fluffy, buttery and garlicky, and full of cheese inside. The perfect side for a steak dinner.
Baked Sweet Potato Wedges are crispy, delicious, flavorful. Serve as an appetizer or side dish. They are salty, savory, and sweet, with a hint of spice.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Sour Cream
Velvety and smooth, garlic mashed potatoes with sour cream are the best, flavourful make-ahead side dish ever. Garlicky, buttery, creamy, and pure comfort.
Mediterranean Chickpea Wedge Salad
Mediterranean chickpea wedge salad combines chickpeas, crunchy vegetable toppings, and hummus dressing for a delicious deconstructed falafel flavour.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Baby Potatoes
Quick and easy roasted garlic Parmesan baby potatoes are crispy on the edges and tender inside. They are delicious, flavourful and bakes in just 30 minutes.
Quick and easy Sautéed Asparagus is a simple, savory side dish that goes well with almost any main dish. It's healthy, flavourful, and seasoned simply.
Rich and creamy potatoes au gratin is the ultimate comfort food made with sliced potatoes, cheese, and milk. It's the perfect side dish for the holidays.
Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar
Quick and easy, creamy stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is a delicious and comforting one pot 20-minute meal packed with three types of cheese.
Buttery sautéed garlic mushrooms are silky smooth with an incredible caramelization and earthy rich flavour. A simple side dish in under 15 minutes.
Fresh, crisp, classic coleslaw salad is a must-have recipe for a summer barbecue or picnic, or as an easy make-ahead lunch. Make it in less than 10 minutes.
Buttery sautéed garlic green beans is a simple side dish that is quick, easy and delicious. Make these vibrant, crispy and tender green beans in 10 minutes.
Oven-roasted corn on the cob with homemade garlic butter is buttery, juicy, crunchy, and perfectly charred on the outside - without a grill.
Super crispy air fryer french fries are tender and fluffy on the inside and crunchy on the outside. Make this healthier french fry in just 12 minutes!
Vegetarian mushroom gravy is creamy, savory and thick, easy to make, loaded with flavor, and pairs well with everything! Make it vegan and dairy-free too.
Roasted spring vegetables are an easy sheet pan side dish packed with all our favourite veggies of the season. Plus, it's so easy to prep and make.
Delicious, garlicky, cheesy and creamy brussels sprouts bake is the ultimate comfort food side dish. So flavourful and the best way to eat brussels sprouts.
Arugula and Roasted Carrot Salad
Arugula and roasted carrot salad is one of the best spring salads, packed with a delicious combination of sweet and sour flavours, plus easy to make.
These crispy smashed potatoes are the perfect side dish. They're easy to make, crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside, and so flavorful.
Honey roasted carrots are a sweet, savoury, and salty side dish that pairs well with almost any entree. With these flavours, everyone will want seconds.
Crispy leaf potatoes are a delicious potato side dish made with layers of buttery, sliced potatoes that crisp up when baked. The perfect side dish.
Take fresh-off-the-grill corn on the cob and turn it into a light, flavourful summer corn salad, topped with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil and cheese.
Baked Potato Wedges are crispy outside and soft inside - exactly what you want from a potato wedge but without frying! Cook in the oven or air fryer.
Air fryer vegetables are healthy, flavorful, and delicious. This vegan side dish is quick and easy to make in the air fryer in under 15 minutes.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Craving a big serving of mashed potatoes but with a quarter of the calories? Now you can with creamy garlic mashed cauliflower. Ready in just 20 minutes.
Roasted Asparagus and Mushrooms
Roasted garlic asparagus and mushrooms is a simple vegan sheet pan side dish that's easy to make, flavorful and delicious. Serve with your favorite protein.
Hasselback Potatoes are infused with garlic butter and feature signature cuts that make these potatoes crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Bright and colorful caprese pasta salad is the ultimate summer side dish. It's fresh, light, and loaded with vibrant summer flavors. Quick and easy too!
Herb Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a quick easy side dish that's healthy, delicious, and flavorful. A perfect side for your holiday table or weeknight dinner.
Creamy broccoli slaw salad is healthy, delicious, and flavourful. It's packed with crunchy vegetables, salty feta, sweet raisins, and a creamy dressing.
How to Make Ahead and Store
You can make many of these steak side dish recipes ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for a few days or even in the freezer for up to 3 months. Otherwise, you can prepare the ingredients and store in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and/or cook. Check the individual recipes for full make ahead and storing instructions.
To reheat, place any leftovers in the air fryer or the oven at 300F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or on the stovetop over medium-low heat (depending on the recipe). If heating from frozen, let it thaw first and then reheat.
More Side Dish Recipes
- 25 Side Dishes for Chicken
- 25 Side Dishes for Salmon
- 40 Vegetable Side Dishes
- 30 Potato Side Dishes
- 15 Green Bean Recipes
- 15 Brussels Sprouts Recipes
Did You Make Any of These Side Dishes for Steak?
Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of side dish recipes to serve with steak. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.
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Pork Dumplings
Homemade pork dumplings are restaurant-quality potstickers that you can make quick and easy in your own kitchen. They have the perfect crispy bottoms with a tender and juicy pork filling inside. This popular flavorful Asian appetizer is much easier to make at home that you think - you'll never need to buy pre-made frozen dumplings again! Plus, they freeze really well making it the perfect quick meal to enjoy on a busy day.
Why You'll Love Pork Dumplings (Gyoza)
- They're so easy to make. When you eat a dumpling, you might think that it looked really complicated and hard to make. Well, you'll be surprised just how easy pork dumplings actually are to make. Just mix the filling, fold the dumplings, and fry or freeze them. Once you fold a couple, you will get the hang of it and the rest are a breeze.
- Dumplings are quicker to make than you think. These pork potstickers take jusy 30 minutes to make. Quick meals are the best kind when you need convenience. You only need half an hour to make these pork dumplings from start to finish. And, if you're freezing them for later, that time cuts down to about 20 minutes.
- They'll save you money. It's so much cheaper to make homemade dumplings than purchasing them frozen at the grocery store or from a restaurant.
- You can freeze them for later. I can't emphasize this enough. Meal prepping gyoza is the best decision you can make because it's a quick and easy meal that can feed you for weeks or months. You put in the work now and enjoy later.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make these delicious Chinese pork dumplings, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- ground pork - you could also turn this into beef gyoza by using ground beef, or other flavors by using ground turkey or beef.
- egg - helps to bind the filling together.
- ginger
- soy sauce - or substitute with oyster sauce.
- Shaoxing cooking wine
- sesame oil
- salt
- pepper - feel free to use ground black pepper or white pepper for a more authentic flavor.
- Chinese chives
- round dumpling wrappers - we love making our own Homemade Dumpling Wrappers, but feel free to use store-bought for convenience.
- vegetable oil and water - for "steam-frying".
- white sesame seeds - for garnish.
- green onions - for garnish.
- vinegar dipping sauce - black vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, and a 10-inch skillet.
How to Make the Best Pork Dumplings
In a large mixing bowl, add ground pork, egg, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, ginger, sesame oil, salt and pepper. Stir with a spatula until well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic cling wrap and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes (or overnight in the refrigerator) to soak in all the flavours. Then, stir in the chives until evenly mixed.
How to Wrap Dumplings or Gyoza
- Prepare a small bowl of water for dipping your fingers into. Take one dumpling wrapper at a time and place it in your palm. Dip your finger into water and smear it along the edge of the wrapper.
- Transfer a tablespoon of filling into the centre. Fold the wrapper over into a half-moon shape, and enclose the filling inside. Press the edges together to seal, or pleat the edges together with your finger. Place the dumpling on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Repeat with all dumplings. Cover with a tea towel to prevent the wrappers from drying out.
How to Pan-Fry Pork Dumplings
- Fry the bottoms. Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large non-stick frying pan (I used a 10-inch skillet) until hot, about 3 minutes. Place a batch of 15 dumplings on the pan and place them approximately ½-inch apart to make sure that they don't stick together. Cook for 3 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown. (To get all sides crispy rather than just the bottom like we did, then cook on both sides until golden and crispy).
- Add water to steam. Add water into the pan to cover half of the dumplings' height (½-inch deep). The water should start sizzling and boiling immediately. Cover with the lid and cook for 7-8 minutes until almost all the water has evaporated.
- Absorb water. Remove the lid and lower the temperature to medium heat. Cook for another 2 minutes until all water has been absorbed. The bottom of the dumplings should be crispy.
- Repeat. Repeat the same steps for another batch of 15 dumplings.
How to Serve Pork Dumplings
Serve pork dumplings with a vinegar dipping sauce. To make the sauce, combine black vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil and green onions in a small mixing bowl. You can also add some Sriracha for a spicy kick. Then, transfer the crispy dumplings onto a plate and sprinkle some sesame seeds and green onions on top.
Make Ahead and Storing Instructions
- How to make ahead/meal prep frozen dumplings: You'll love these pork dumplings the day you make them and weeks after - if you freeze them. But don't cook the dumplings. Instead, place dumplings in a single layer on a large half sheet baking pan lined with parchment paper with enough space between them so that none of the dumplings are touching. Freeze them for an hour up to overnight, then transfer the frozen dumplings to a freezer bag or freezer-safe container. Eat within 3-4 months.
- How to make steamed dumplings: To make steamed dumplings instead of potstickers, simply place the uncooked dumplings on a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Steam for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- How to store fried dumplings: Allow the fried potstickers to cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container for 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
- How to reheat dumplings: If cooked, reheat dumplings in a pan with just a splash of water. If uncooked or frozen, cook dumplings according to recipe instructions.
- How to cook from frozen: You can cook these gyoza straight from the freezer. Follow the same steps in this recipe, but when you cover and cook until the water has evaporated, then add another ¼ cup of water and cover. Keep cooking until water almost evaporates, about 5 more minutes.
More Dumpling Recipes
- 25 Best Dim Sum Recipes
- Beef Potstickers (Dumplings)
- Egg and Chive Vegetarian Dumplings
- Chicken and Cilantro Wontons
- Beef Dumplings with Celery
- Chicken and Shrimp Dumplings
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a delicious and flavorful pasta dish that is ready in under 25 minutes. This Russian recipe has gained wide popularity all over the world for obvious reasons - it's delicious comfort food at it's finest. Tender, bite-sized chunks of beef are tossed with buttery egg noodles in a thick, creamy sauce with mushrooms that add an extra earthy flavor to the mix. Beef stroganoff is a great comforting weeknight dinner, especially in the cozy winter months. Packed with protein from quality beef and egg noodles, this beef stroganoff is the satisfying meal you're looking to feed your family.
Why You'll Love Beef Stroganoff
- The beef. For this beef stroganoff, you'll need either beef flank steak or top sirloin, which are both tender and lean cuts of meat. They deliver great flavor and texture without the added fat. Or use leftover roast beef.
- The sauce. The creamy sauce is another essential aspect of beef stroganoff. It's made from butter, beef broth, heavy cream, sour cream, and more. Flavored with ingredients like onion, mushroom, garlic, and Dijon mustard, the beef stroganoff cream sauce is salty, savory, and delicious.
- The noodles. You can serve beef stroganoff over rice, potatoes, or noodles. My favorite are noodles and you want to use quality egg noodles - the wide kind. This traditional noodle picks up the optimal amount of sauce for a creamy and indulgent pasta dish.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this delicious beef stroganoff, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- vegetable oil
- beef - I recommend using beef flank steak or top sirloin for this stir fry. You can also use leftover roast beef for a great way to use up holiday leftovers.
- butter
- brown mushrooms
- onion
- garlic
- all-purpose flour
- beef broth - I sometimes have a batch of Slow Cooker Bone Broth in the fridge that is perfect to use in this recipe.
- heavy cream - or substitute with half and half cream.
- sour cream
- dijon mustard - or substitute with ketchup.
- salt and pepper
- dried wide egg noodles - optional, for serving.
- fresh parsley - optional, for serving.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons and a large skillet (I used my cast-iron skillet).
How to Make the Best Beef Stroganoff
- Sear beef. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling hot, about 1 minute. Add beef and sauté until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. (If using leftover roast beef, add it in and cook for 1-2 minutes instead, until starting to warm). Set aside on a plate.
- Sauté aromatics. In the same skillet, add butter and melt over medium-high heat until it starts to bubble, about 1 minute. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic and sauté until golden brown and tender, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add flour and mix until well combined, about 1 minute.
- Add sauce. Add beef broth, heavy cream, sour cream, and mustard. Mix well until smooth and bring the mixture to a simmer, about 2-3 minutes.
- Toss. Return the cooked beef to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer over medium heat until heated through and the sauce thickens to a desired consistency, about 3-4 minutes.
- Serve. Garnish with parsley and serve warm with pasta (I like to serve with egg noodles). To cook the egg noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add egg noodles and cook according to package directions, about 6 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Storing Instructions
- How to store: Leftover beef stroganoff should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- How to freeze: You can freeze leftover beef stroganoff for up to three months. Be sure to separate it into portion sized meal prep containers before freezing for easy thawing. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- How to reheat: Reheat beef stroganoff on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened out too much. in the fridge. You can also reheat in the microwave on medium-low heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring between each interval.
More Beef Recipes
- 25 Ground Beef Recipes
- Beef Wild Rice Soup
- Roast Beef
- Homemade Hamburger Helper
- Spaghetti Bolognese
- Instant Pot Beef Curry
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Baba Ganoush Eggplant Dip
Baba ganoush eggplant dip is a delicious, flavorful, and vegan Mediterranean dip. Loaded with roasted eggplants, olive oil and tahini, and fresh flavors of lemon and garlic, this healthy creamy dip is a must-try. Plus, it's easy to prepare in just a few simple steps, can be made ahead, and stores well (some say it tastes better the next day or two!). Serve this eggplant dip as an appetizer on game day or a last minute snack.
What is Baba Ganoush?
Baba ganoush is a creamy eggplant dip. Most versions use roasted eggplant but we are grilling ours whole until crispy on the outside and creamy in the middle, and are then mixed with garlic and tahini. It's an absolute explosion of flavor!
This is not at all like baking or roasting eggplant. The vegetable takes on a smokey flavour that is perfect served with pita bread, crudité, or even as an alternative to a spread on sandwiches. So much flavor!
Why You'll Love Baba Ganoush
- Loaded with Mediterranean flavors. Whenever I am craving a good dip, I seem to always go for Mediterranean. With fresh flavors like lemon, garlic, and tahini, you can't go wrong. Some of my other favorites are: hummus, tzatziki, and tahini sauce.
- You only need 6 simple ingredients. When you hear the words baba ganoush, you might think it's a fancy recipe that sounds really complicated. Well, it's not. For this recipe, all you need are eggplants, lemon juice, garlic, tahini, olive oil, and salt.
- It's vegan and gluten-free. This delicious dip will satisfy all dietary restrictions. It's vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
Ingredients in Baba Ganoush
Baba ganoush is really simple to make with just a handful of ingredients. Here's what you will need (full list of quantities in recipe card below):
- Italian eggplants
- lemon juice - I recommend using fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- garlic - this dip requires some raw garlic, so if you're not a fan of eating raw garlic, I suggest roasting 1 or 2 cloves instead. You'll still get that desirable garlic flavour, it will just be more mild and a bit sweeter.
- tahini
- olive oil - I use extra virgin olive oil.
- salt
- sesame seeds and parsley - optional, for garnish.
If you think you don't like eggplant, you HAVE to give this recipe a try. It'll change your mind for sure!
How to Make Baba Ganoush
- Prepare the eggplant. Grill for 30-35 minutes, until creamy inside and thin and crispy outside. Then slice in half and scoop out the flesh into a large bowl. Place in a strainer to remove excess liquid, and place into a clean bowl.
- Add remaining ingredients. Add lemon juice and garlic and stir until smooth and creamy. Slowly add tahini and olive oil. Taste and add salt as needed.
- Serve the baba ganoush. Top with a drizzle of olive oil, some sesame seeds, and parsley for garnish. Serve warm or at room temperature with pita bread, crackers, or crudité.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to serve: Serve warm or at room temperature with pita bread, crackers, or crudité (veggies). You can also serve it as a spread in sandwiches on your favorite bread.
- How to store: Store leftover baba ganoush in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
- How to get the perfect texture: Baba ganoush has a thick and chunky texture. For the best results, use a fork or whisk to mash the baba ganoush. You can also use a food processor to make this eggplant dip smoother.
More Dip Recipes
- 20 Best Dip Recipes
- Classic Hummus
- Easy Tzatziki Sauce (Yogurt Cucumber Dip)
- Baked Spinach Dip
- Olive Tapenade
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
40 Valentine's Day Dinner Ideas
When it comes to Valentine's Day dinner recipes, only the most delicious, special, and romantic meals will suffice. So if you are wondering, "what to make for Valentine's Day dinner", then you, my friend, are in the right place. We are sharing over 40 of the best romantic Valentine's Day dinner ideas that you can cook for your significant other or for your best friends on Galentine's Day. I am talking about fresh seafood, tender chicken dinner, comforting creamy pasta, and more!
Best Valentine's Day Dinner Ideas
Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails
Fancy, restaurant-quality surf and turf is super easy to make with fresh lobster tail and tender rib-eye steak with a delicious garlic butter sauce. One of my favorite Valentine's Day dinner ideas.
Quick and easy, creamy lemon chicken piccata is a simple and delicious 30-minute meal made with tender chicken breast in a light lemon sauce with capers. One of my favorite summer dinner ideas. You can also try Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken.
Garlicky, buttery, and perfectly seared scallops take less than 10 minutes to prep and cook. It's the easiest fancy, restaurant-grade meal to make at home. A perfect Valentine's Day dinner recipe.
Easy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana)
Easy chicken parmesan (parmigiana) with crispy breaded chicken, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. The best comfort chicken dinner for Valentine's Day.
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Peppers
Chicken parmesan stuffed peppers are delicious, flavorful, healthy, and filling, and combines two all-time favorites. Great for meal prep and freezes well.
Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Bake
Creamy shrimp fettuccine alfredo pasta bake is garlicky, buttery, cheesy, loaded with shrimp + parsley and topped with mozzarella. Easy comfort food goals.
Steamed Mussels in Tomato Sauce
Steamed mussels in tomato sauce is an impressive restaurant-quality dish that is so quick and easy to make at home in less than 25 minutes.
Creamy Parmesan (No Wine) Risotto
Creamy Parmesan (No Wine) Risotto is a rich, creamy, and comforting classic Italian dish that may be intimidating but is actually quick and easy to make.
Tender, flaky, flavorful garlic butter salmon is well-seasoned, seared to perfection, and basted until juicy. Quick and easy to make in 20 minutes.
Thai Turkey Meatballs in Coconut Curry
Thai turkey meatballs in coconut curry are the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something delicious, healthy, flavorful, and satisfying.
White Chicken and Spinach Lasagna
Creamy white chicken and spinach lasagna with tender shredded chicken is the most comforting creamiest cheesiest white lasagna. Easy to make ahead & freeze.
Lemon Asparagus Soup with Parmesan
Lemon asparagus soup with parmesan is the perfect spring soup -- smooth, light, fresh, and flavourful. It's customizable and can be served hot or cold.
Creamy Tuscan shrimp packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic, is creamy, rich, and delicious. Make it in just 15 minutes, including prep!
Creamy spaghetti carbonara (Spaghetti a la Carbonara) is a simple classic Italian pasta with pancetta that's quick and easy to make in minutes.
Creamy garlic mushrooms are a simple, delicious, and easy side dish. This comforting family favorite that is quick and easy to make in just 15 minutes.
Quick easy teriyaki salmon is tender, flaky, and flavorful, with bold flavors from the delicious teriyaki marinade. Great for dinner or meal prep lunches.
Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
Shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles is a low-carb, keto, and gluten-free version of a classic pasta dish. It is healthy, garlicky, flavorful, and delicious.
Better than take-out, flavourful and authentic Shanghai fried noodles with chicken, mushrooms, and bok choy is made in just 10 minutes - the easiest dinner!
Creamy Chicken Roulade with Spinach and Mushrooms
Give your chicken breasts an upgrade by stuffing them to make fancy, juicy chicken roulade with spinach and mushrooms topped with a creamy alfredo sauce. Serve it over spaghetti alfredo with spinach and mushrooms.
Chicken marsala in creamy mushroom sauce is a quick and easy 30-minute chicken dinner that is pure comfort food goals. A total crowd favourite.
Better than the steakhouse, the best tender and juicy ribeye steak with a perfect seared crust is garlicky, buttery and packed with so much flavour. Serve with a side of Air Fryer Asparagus or Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes.
Fettuccine alfredo is a classic Italian pasta dish that is rich, creamy, and delicious. Plus, it comes together in less than 15 minutes! Perfect for Valentine's Day dinner.
Baked parmesan crusted chicken is breaded in a herby parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked until crispy perfection. So flavourful and delicious.
Flaky, oily, and tender, miso black cod (or sablefish) packed with delicious Asian flavours is an indulgent meal that's as healthy as it is delicious.
Greek salmon is delicious, flaky, and tender. This healthy oven-baked salmon is packed with Mediterranean flavors and is ready in just 20 minutes.
Creamy turkey gnocchi soup is the ultimate comfort food - creamy, rich, and delicious, made with good carbs, clean protein, and veggies in 25 minutes. You can also substitute the turkey for rotisserie chicken.
This beef noodle stir fry is the 20-minute dinner that you have been looking for - quick and easy, delicious and flavorful, and so much better than takeout.
Baked caprese chicken is tender, juicy, and delicious, topped with burst tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Quick easy spaghetti bolognese with a rich, thick, delicious and flavourful meat sauce is a family favourite ready in 30 minutes. Best weeknight dinner.
Creamy Tuscan chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach is a quick and easy 30 minute Italian chicken dinner that is delicious, flavorful, and comforting. Easy instant pot instructions in the recipe tips.
This delicious garlic and herb-crusted rack of lamb is tender, juicy, and flavourful. It is surprisingly quick and easy to make at home in about 30 minutes.
Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes
Creamy shrimp pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a delicious, quick and easy meal that takes just 20 minutes to prep and make. The perfect weeknight dinner. | aheadofthyme.com
You won't believe how easy it is to make fresh, flavourful and delicious almond-crusted halibut with lemon garlic butter this season.
Greek Lemon Garlic Whole Roast Chicken
Easy Greek lemon garlic whole roast chicken is tender, juicy and succulent with the crispiest skin. Prep this flavourful one pan meal in just 15 minutes.
Skillet Chicken with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Delicious creamy skillet chicken with lemon garlic sauce is a one-skillet meal that is ready in 30 minutes. It's garlicky, saucy, creamy, and so flavourful. Bread is a must to dip into this delicious sauce. Try pull apart garlic bread or easy no yeast biscuits.
Quick and easy mascarpone pesto pasta is the tastiest creamy pasta dish you'll ever make in under 15 minutes. It's the best weeknight dinner.
Juicy, tender, and moist, baked chicken breast with the best Greek souvlaki marinade is the most flavorful and delicious chicken dinner in under 30 minutes.
Valentine's Day Dinner Tips
- Plan your menu ahead of time. You can prepare some of these delicious recipes in advance, and store them in an airtight container for a few days at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator. Some can even be made further ahead and frozen, according to recipe directions.
- Prep your ingredients. If you aren't able to make something ahead, then prepare as much as you can in advance - whether that means chopping ingredients for a salad, making a sauce, or assembling a casserole and storing in the refrigerator until it's ready for the oven.
- Set the table. Set the table early with fancy plates, flatware, glasses, placemats, and napkins to make Valentine's Day dinner even more special.
More Romantic Recipes
- 40 Valentine's Day Dessert Recipes
- 50 Date Night Dinner Ideas
- 45 Best Chocolate Desserts
- 40 Best Shrimp Recipes
- 40 Best Pasta Recipes
- 60 Best Chicken Recipes
- 60+ Easy Dinner Ideas
Did You Make Any of These Romantic Valentine's Day Dinner Recipes?
Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of the best Valentine's Day dinner recipes we have to offer. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.
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Greek Fries
Homemade Greek fries bring a Mediterranean twist on a classic side dish. Made with delicious russet potatoes that are fluffy and tender inside with a crispy golden brown crunch on the outside, these Greek-style french fries are topped with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over these sheet pan fries before dipping them into a creamy tzatziki sauce, and you'll see why these Greek fries are much better than the classic version with ketchup.
Why You'll Love Greek Fries
- You'll never want regular fries again. This recipe for Greek fries is incredibly simple, but it is seriously a game-changer! A homemade crispy fry is one thing. But when you add feta cheese, fresh garnishes, a creamy dipping sauce, and fresh lemon juice, it just hits differently.
- Healthier than deep-fried. One of the best parts of this Greek fry recipe is that they're oven-baked. Since they are not deep-fried, it means no grease, fewer fats, and fries that can actually fit into a healthy diet. Oven baking fresh fries is so simple, you'll wonder why you ever bought frozen fries.
- The balance of Mediterranean flavors. Greek anything is pretty good - and Greek fries are no exception. Enjoy the classic Mediterranean flavors of feta cheese, fresh parsley, lemon, and tzatziki over perfect fries that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Enjoy it guilt-free on your Mediterranean Diet.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this easy Greek Fries, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- russet potatoes - you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes. When picking your potatoes, watch for greek skin or flesh, and spuds. Easily cut them off to safely consume the rest of your potatoes.
- olive oil
- salt
- dried oregano
- toppings - we topped these Greek fries with fresh parsley, feta cheese, and lemon wedges for drizzling lemon juice on top.
- tzatziki sauce - serve these Greek fries with tzatziki sauce (optional) for dipping. You can also serve them with ketchup or tahini sauce.
You will also need measuring spoons, mixing bowl, and a large half sheet baking pan.
How to Make the Best Greek Fries
- Prepare potatoes. Wash and slice potatoes into long french fry strips. You can choose to leave the skin on or peel the skin. Transfer the sliced potatoes into a large mixing bowl and fill with water. Soak the potatoes for 20 minutes. Then, drain and pat completely dry with a dish towel. Place potatoes in a dry mixing bowl and add olive oil, salt, and dried oregano. Toss well to coat.
- Bake. Transfer potatoes to a large half sheet baking pan in an even layer. Bake in a preheated 425F oven for 35-40 minutes until the bottom is crispy brown. Turn on the broiler to high and broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is brown and crispy too.
- Add toppings. Use a turner to carefully transfer the french fries to a serving dish. Top with chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, and lemon wedges. Serve with tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping.
Storing Instructions
- How to store fries: Allow the fries to cool completely before storing. Line a container with a paper towel (to absorb any excess oil) and store cooled Greek fries in the fridge for 4-5 days. For the best flavor, wait to garnish the fries if you know there will be any leftovers. However, fries garnished with cheese, parsley, and/or lemon will still keep well.
- How to reheat: Spread fries on a baking sheet. Then, reheat in a 425F preheated oven for 10-20 minutes until warm and crispy.
More Potato Recipes
- 40 Best Potato Recipes
- Air Fryer French Fries
- Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Crispy Leaf Potatoes
- Hasselback Potatoes
- Mashed Potato Balls
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Beef Noodle Stir Fry
This beef noodle stir fry is the dinner that you have been looking for - quick and easy, delicious and flavorful, and so much better than takeout. It's ready to eat in just 20 minutes (including prep!), and is packed with vegetables like mushrooms, cabbage, spinach, and carrot. Plus, this Chinese beef noodle stir fry is fully customizable with whatever veggies that you have on hand and you can even use leftover roast beef.
Why You'll Love Beef Noodle Stir Fry
- It's a quick 20-minute meal. That's right. A whole meal in just 20 minutes. This delicious Asian beef noodles is perfect when you're in a rush on busy weeknights because it's ready quickly, and there's little clean-up. If you're someone who doesn't have a lot of time to cook, this homemade beef noodle stir fry is a must-have recipe in your back pocket.
- It's so easy to make. Easy recipes are my favorite. A complex recipe can be fun, but easy staples are what keep things running smoothly in our kitchen. This beef noodle stir fry from scratch only has a few simple steps, and it's pretty hard to go wrong.
- It's a full and complete meal. You don't need any extra side dishes to complete this meal. Beef noodle stir fry has everything you need: healthy carbs, protein, and veggies!
- It's completely customizable. This quick Chinese stir fry noodle recipe is fully customizable. You can use leftover roast beef or any meat that you like. You can add in and substitute the veggies for any that you have on hand. Try adding in bok choy, broccoli, or cauliflower.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this quick and easy beef noodle stir fry, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- egg noodles - I prefer the texture on egg noodles for this stir fry, but really any kind of Asian noodles will work. Just pick your favorite.
- vegetable oil
- beef - I recommend using beef flank steak or top sirloin for this stir fry. You can also use leftover roast beef for a great way to use up holiday leftovers.
- vegetables - I used onion, carrot, brown mushrooms, Chinese cabbage, and spinach. You can feel free to substitute with any veggies that you have on hand.
- sauce - for the sauce, you will need soy sauce, oyster sauce or hoisin sauce, rice vinegar or mirin (optional), sesame oil, ground cumin, and ground black pepper or white pepper.
One of my favorite things about this stir fry is that it's customizable so you can use up any veggies that are in your fridge. Consider adding:
- broccoli
- celery
- cauliflower
- brussels sprouts
- leafy greens like bok choy or kale
How to Make the Best Beef Noodle Stir Fry
- Cook noodles. Bring a large cooking pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add egg noodles and a little bit of salt and cook according to package directions, about 6 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook beef. Heat oil in a large wok or pan over high heat until sizzling hot, about 1 minute. Add beef and sauté until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. If using leftover roast beef, add it in and cook for 1-2 minutes instead, until starting to warm.
- Add vegetables. Add onion, carrot, mushrooms, cabbage, and spinach. Stir well and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add noodles. Stir in noodles and add all the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cumin, and pepper). Toss well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until evenly coated.
- Serve. Garnish with white sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Storing Instructions
- How to store: Noodles are best served fresh. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer the Asian beef noodle stir fry to an airtight container and store in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- How to reheat: Reheat these Chinese beef noodles the same way you cooked it - on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave on medium heat in 30-second intervals.
More Stir Fry Recipes
- 60 Chinese Takeout Recipes
- Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Healthy Lemon Chicken
- Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles
- Vegetarian Chow Mein
- Stir-Fried Rice Noodle Rolls
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
50 Best Italian Recipes
Italian food is one of the most well known cuisines on the planet, and for good reason too. It's comforting, delicious, and so satisfying. Whether you are craving a plate of pasta from Italy, a slice of Neapolitan pizza, a bite of creamy chicken, or a bowl of warm and cozy soup, you will find it in the Italian kitchen. So if you are wondering how to make Italian food at home for dinner, we have got you covered. We are sharing over 50 of our most popular and best Italian recipes including pasta, pizza, soup, salad, chicken, beef, appetizers, bread, and more!
Best Italian Recipes
Easy chicken parmesan (parmigiana) with crispy breaded chicken, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. The best comfort chicken dinner.
Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti)
Pasta bake with sausage (baked ziti) is a lazy day lasagna with layers of pasta tossed in a rich meat sauce, layered with mozzarella, and baked.
Meatballs are probably my favorite of all ground beef recipes. These quick, easy homemade Italian meatballs are juicy, flavourful, and delicious, simmered in a rich and savoury tomato sauce. Make them in just 30 minutes.
Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Hearty and creamy tortellini soup with sausage, spinach and kale is total comfort food in a bowl. Make this flavourful one pot meal in under 30 minutes.
Classic easy meat lasagna is the ultimate Italian comfort food with layers of tender lasagna, meaty tomato sauce, cheese filling and melted cheese on top.
Quick and easy, creamy lemon chicken piccata is a simple and delicious 30-minute meal made with tender chicken breast in a light lemon sauce with capers.
Fettuccine alfredo is a classic Italian pasta dish that is rich, creamy, and delicious. Plus, it comes together in less than 15 minutes!
Easy Rosemary Garlic Focaccia Bread
No knead, easy rosemary garlic focaccia bread is thick with a perfect golden and crispy texture on the outside, but soft, fluffy and tender inside.
Minestrone soup is a hearty, healthy, nourishing, and delicious classic Italian soup, packed with vegetables and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth.
Creamy Parmesan (No Wine) Risotto
Creamy Parmesan (No Wine) Risotto is a rich, creamy, and comforting classic Italian dish that may be intimidating but is actually quick and easy to make.
Italian pasta salad is delicious, wholesome, and easy to make. Make it up to three days ahead for your summer picnics and cookouts. You can't get more classic than Italian Salad on Memorial Day!
This Creamy Tomato Pasta is a simple and delicious meal made from scratch in 25 minutes with a cream and tomato based sauce that is rich and silky smooth.
Homemade calzones are delicious little pizza pockets filled with cheese and toppings and baked until golden. This Italian favourite is easy to make at home.
Creamy Tuscan shrimp packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic, is creamy, rich, and delicious. Make it in just 15 minutes, including prep!
Creamy Polenta is simple, warm, and comforting side dish, made with a handful of simple ingredients and about 30 minutes of time. It's gluten-free too!
Eggplant Parmesan is a vegetarian Italian dish made featuring tender eggplant slices coated in crispy breadcrumbs, melty cheese, and baked in tomato sauce.
Quick and easy pesto penne pasta is a simple and light Italian pasta dish made with just five ingredients in under 15 minutes. The easiest dinner.
Chicken marsala in creamy mushroom sauce is a quick and easy 30-minute chicken dinner that is pure comfort food goals. A total crowd favourite.
Skillet Neapolitan Margherita Pizza
Quick and easy skillet Neapolitan margherita pizza has an iconic thin and soft crust with a perfectly crisp exterior, and simple and fresh toppings.
This simple Ravioli Soup is a quick, cozy meal with plump pillows of ravioli simmered in a hearty homemade tomato soup. Ready in just 20 minutes!
Caprese Skewers are a quick and fresh appetizer made with bite-sized mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil leaves with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Cheesy Baked Gnocchi is quick and easy comfort food made all in one pot with chewy bites of gnocchi, a simple tomato-based sauce, and gooey melty cheese.
Quick easy spaghetti bolognese with a rich, thick, delicious and flavourful meat sauce is a family favourite ready in 30 minutes. Best weeknight dinner.
Instant pot osso buco is a delicious, classic Italian recipe with braised veal shanks stewed with vegetables in a thick, savory red wine and tomato sauce.
Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli is a vegetarian dinner filled with roasted butternut squash and served with a nutty brown butter sauce with crispy sage.
Ricotta stuffed shells are an easy, hearty, and classic Italian comfort food that can feed the whole family. Easy to make ahead and freeze for another day.
Creamy garlic salmon is a quick easy one-pan meal ready in under 30 minutes, with seared flaky tender salmon tossed in a delicious creamy garlic sauce.
Lasagna soup is a twist on a classic Italian recipe with all the same delicious comforting flavors in the form of a hearty one pot soup.
Chicken penne pasta is a quick and easy dinner that is delicious, rich, creamy, and flavorful. It's a family favorite that's ready in under 30 minutes.
Marinara sauce is rich, vibrant, and loaded with flavor. It's easy to make with a few simple fresh ingredients. Serve as a dip or in pasta and pizza.
Easy Tomato Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze
Tomato bruschetta with balsamic glaze is an easy Italian appetizer topped with tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil and olive oil. Delicious, fresh and simple. The perfect light Super Bowl recipe.
Shrimp Alfredo is creamy, garlicky, and delicious! This quick and easy, under 30-minute recipe is a go-to for busy nights and a year-round family favorite.
Creamy Tuscan chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach is a quick and easy 30 minute Italian chicken dinner that is delicious, flavorful, and comforting.
Creamy White Chicken and Spinach Lasagna
Creamy white chicken and spinach lasagna with tender shredded chicken is the most comforting creamiest cheesiest white lasagna. Easy to make ahead & freeze.
This Tuscan White Bean Soup is comforting, nourishing, and delicious, packed with creamy cannellini beans, fresh veggies, and herbs. Ready in 30 minutes!
Soft garlic breadsticks are fluffy, airy, buttery, and delicious. They're an easy recipe that is perfect for beginners at baking bread.
Eggplant Rollatini features roasted eggplant stuffed with creamy ricotta, baked in marinara, and topped with cheese - the best vegetarian comfort food!
Farfalle Pasta with Mushroom Rose Sauce
Farfalle pasta with mushroom rose sauce is creamy yet light, delicious and flavorful, and quick and easy to make in 20 minutes. Best comfort food dinner!
Light and airy, whipped ricotta dip is so easy to make in just 5 minutes with a few fresh ingredients including fresh herbs, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
Classic Manicotti is everything you love about Italian comfort food - creamy ricotta, tender pasta, and a rich, savory marinara sauce baked until bubbly.
Homemade tomato basil soup is comforting, rich, and smooth. This cozy soup is easy, flavourful, and nourishing, making it so much better than canned.
Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delicious 30 minute recipe that is packed with flavor, quick and easy to make, and will satisfy the whole family.
Toasted Ravioli is a classic Italian appetizer that is crispy and golden on the outside, and tender and gooey on the inside. Ready in less than 30 minutes!
Cacio e pepe is a simple, authentic Italian pasta dish made with just four ingredients in 20 minutes. It's delicious, flavourful and easy to make.
Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad
Quick and easy tomato and mozzarella caprese salad is a fresh, light, and delicious summer salad, made with just a few simple ingredients in 10 minutes.
Salami and Mushroom Skillet Pizza
Easy salami and mushroom skillet pizza with a crispy pizza crust, mushrooms, salami, and fresh mozzarella is ready on the skillet in about 10 minutes.
Creamy Chicken Roulade with Spinach and Mushrooms
Give your chicken breasts an upgrade by stuffing them to make fancy, juicy chicken roulade with spinach and mushrooms topped with a creamy alfredo sauce. Serve it over spaghetti alfredo with spinach and mushrooms.
Creamy spaghetti carbonara (Spaghetti a la Carbonara) is a simple classic Italian pasta with pancetta that's quick and easy to make in minutes.
Baked caprese chicken is tender, juicy, and delicious, topped with burst tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Easy small batch ciabatta rolls are fluffy and airy with a perfect crunchy, crackly crust. They take only 10 minutes to prepare and require no kneading. These are the most popular bread recipe on our entire site!
Italian Lentil Soup transforms simple pantry staples (like lentils and canned tomatoes) and fresh veggies into a hearty meal to warm you up on a cold day.
Creamy Pesto Chicken is a quick and easy 30 minute meal that needs to be on your family weeknight dinner rotation. It's rich, creamy, and delicious.
Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle Pasta is a quick and easy, restaurant-worthy vegetarian dinner that is ready in just 30 minutes! Elevated comfort food at home.
Baked Feta Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner recipe that is creamy, delicious, and flavorful - the whole family will love this Tiktok pasta!
Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach
Creamy tetrazzini with spinach is a simple, easy and delicious pasta recipe that is comforting, creamy and cheesy. The recipe used turkey, but you can easily substitute it with leftover chicken or a storebought rotisserie chicken instead.
Smooth, hearty and light, one pot lemon chicken orzo soup is pure comfort in a bowl. This family favourite is like chicken noodle soup with a major upgrade.
Classic Roman Herbed Potato Pizza
Easy and simple yet flavourful classic Roman herbed potato pizza has a crispy thin crust with layers of tender potato tossed in olive oil and herbs.
Bright and colorful caprese pasta salad is the ultimate summer side dish. It's fresh, light, and loaded with vibrant summer flavors. Quick and easy too!
Vegetarian stuffed mushrooms are a delicious, flavorful, healthy, and nutritious appetizer. Plus, quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes including prep!
Baked parmesan crusted chicken is breaded in a herby parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked until crispy perfection. So flavourful and delicious.
Cheesy Tortellini and Sausage Bake
Quick and easy, cheesy tortellini and sausage bake is a delicious 30-minute dinner packed with flavour. A family-favourite comfort food for busy weeknights.
Whipped ricotta crostini is a fancy easy appetizer to make in just minutes or prepare in advance and assemble before serving. A total crowd pleaser.
Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad
Quick and easy Mediterranean orzo pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables and herbs is tossed in a Greek lemon vinaigrette. Healthy, light and delicious.
Garlic knots are fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and topped with delicious savory garlic herbed butter that will have you begging for more.
Creamy lemon parmesan chicken is a simple, quick and easy 30-minute meal that is packed with flavour. The most comforting and easiest weeknight dinner.
Lasagna roll ups are a twist on traditional lasagna. Lasagna noodles are filled with cheese and meat sauce and rolled up. Make ahead and freezer-friendly!
If you're a fan of spinach artichoke dip, you need to try this spinach artichoke pasta. It's quick and easy comfort food is ready in under 30 minutes.
No Knead Tomato Focaccia Bread
Easy no knead tomato focaccia is so flavourful, packed with olive oil, tomatoes and fresh herbs. It's crispy and golden outside, fluffy and pillowy inside.
Baked Ravioli is simple delicious comfort food that is perfect for a weeknight family dinner or for entertaining. It's hearty, comforting, and kid-friendly.
Quick and easy spaghetti and meatballs is delicious, rich, comforting with tender beef meatballs simmered in a savoury tomato sauce. Make it in 30 minutes.
More Popular Recipes
- 40 Best Pasta Recipes
- 60 Best Chicken Recipes
- 40 Best Salad Recipes
- 25 Best Ground Beef Recipes
- 15 Best Salmon Recipes
Did You Make Any of These Italian Recipes?
Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of the best Italian recipes. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.
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Dark Chocolate Raspberry Truffles
Dark chocolate raspberry truffles are rich, delicious, and indulgent. With a creamy chocolate ganache and raspberry filling rolled in cocoa powder, making homemade truffles is much easier than you might think. These dark chocolate truffles are as simple as combining high quality chocolate, creamy, raspberry jam, and cocoa. Plus, they are easy to store and freezer-friendly. They are seriously something that everyone should have in their repertoire.
Why You'll Love Dark Chocolate Raspberry Truffles
- Chocolate and raspberries are a match made in heaven. There is just something about the combination of raspberries and chocolate that go so well together. I used a couple tablespoons of a good quality jam that I had on hand, but if you wanted to add a little texture to the truffles, you could easily throw in some chopped fresh raspberries before letting the mixture firm up in the fridge. Just imagine how amazingly fresh that would taste.
- They are easy to make. These no bake dark chocolate truffles are so easy to make with just 4 simple ingredients. They do take sometime to chill in the fridge, but they are pretty easy to make with minimal prep. If you get to work on these dark chocolate raspberry truffles now, they could be yours in just over 2 hours.
- These truffles are customizable. You can even mix up the flavour of these truffles completely. Add your choice of fruit preserves (try our easy homemade Strawberry Jam), a splash of your favourite extract, or chopped nuts.
- Perfect for special occasions. Dark chocolate raspberry truffles are perfect to satisfy a sweet craving, or to make on special occasions. Make them for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, or during Christmas and include in a Holiday Cookie Box to gift to family and friends.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make these easy dark chocolate raspberry truffles, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- dark chocolate - feel free to use chocolate chips or chopped chocolate. You can even also use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate for a different flavor. Either way, I recommend using high-quality chocolate as it's the main ingredient that you will taste here.
- heavy cream
- raspberry preserves (jam) - you can customize these truffles by substituting with a different kind of jam that you have one hand, such as easy homemade Strawberry Jam.
- dark chocolate cocoa powder
You will also need a shallow saucepan or cooking pot, medium mixing bowl, a melon baller (or tablespoon measuring spoons), and half sheet baking pan.
How to Make the Best Dark Chocolate Raspberry Truffles
- Heat the heavy cream. Pour heavy cream into a shallow saucepan or cooking pot and heat over medium-high heat until almost boiling. Once you see it begin to steam and form small bubbles on the side, pull it off and immediately pour it over the chocolate (in a medium mixing bowl).
- Make chocolate ganache. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir together. The mixture should be extremely smooth, with all the chocolate melted. If needed, microwave the cream and chocolate together in 15 second increments, stirring when finished, until completely smooth.
- Add raspberry and chill. Add raspberry preserves/jam and stir to combine. Place uncovered in the refrigerator for 2 hours, or until the chocolate ganache has hardened and is scoopable.
- Shape the truffles. Line a large half pan baking sheet or tray with parchment paper. Use a melon baller or a tablespoon to scoop out small portions of the ganache. Use your hands to roll them into 1-inch balls. Place on the baking sheet and freeze for 15 minutes.
- Coat the truffles. Place cocoa powder in a small bowl. Drop each truffle in the cocoa powder and roll until completely coated. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator until ready to serve.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Don't overheat the cream: Be wary not to overheat the heavy cream. That is the secret to getting that smooth, creamy texture, otherwise your cream will curdle. Carefully watch the cream while heating on the stove or you risk burning it and having to start over.
- How to store: Store dark chocolate raspberry truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- How to freeze: Once coated, you can freeze these dark chocolate truffles in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow the truffles to thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for an hour or so at room temperature before serving.
More Chocolate Recipes
- Molten Chocolate Lava Cakes
- Double Chocolate Loaf Cake
- Moist Chocolate Cupcakes
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
60 Best Mediterranean Diet Recipes
Looking to incorporate more healthy recipes into your diet? Well the Mediterranean Diet is just that - healthy with a focus on fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, and leans towards predominantly plant-based meals. Whether you are just looking for fresh Mediterranean recipes to try or are looking to switch to a Mediterranean Diet, then you are in the right place. We are sharing over 60 of our best Mediterranean Diet recipes including breakfast, salad and sides, vegetarian recipes, seafood recipes, and lighter meat recipes.
What is the Mediterranean Diet?
The Mediterranean diet is a healthy way to eating based on the traditional ingredients, flavors, cooking methods, and eating habits of the peoples of the countries along the Mediterranean Sea, including Greece, Italy, and many others. The Mediterranean Diet is a one that is predominantly plant-based and based around vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
Some key features of the Mediterranean Diet are:
- Eat more plant-based. Including whole grains, vegetables and greens, legumes (like lentils and beans), fruits, seeds, nuts, herbs, and spices.
- Eat healthy fats. The main source of added fat in the Mediterranean Diet is olive oil and fish.
- Eat seafood, dairy, and poultry in moderation. You can enjoy fish, seafood, dairy, and poultry (chicken and turkey) in moderation.
- Eat red meat occasionally.
- Eat sweets occasionally. Try fresh fruit instead. For a strict Mediterranean diet, you may want to completely remove sweets from your diet.
Mediterranean Breakfast Recipes
Shakshuka is a quick and easy, one-pan Middle Eastern classic with a savory saucy tomato-vegetable base and perfectly poached eggs on top. One of my favorite Mediterranean Diet recipes for breakfast.
Majoon Banana and Date Smoothie
Majoon banana and date smoothie is a delicious and healthy all-natural energy drink with bananas, dates and nuts. The perfect breakfast or snack.
Tex Mex egg muffins are a delicious, filling, and healthy breakfast or snack. They are light and fluffy, perfect for meal prep, and freezer-friendly.
Spring vegetable frittata is a delicious breakfast or served at any time of the day. It's a one-pan meal that starts on the stove and moves to the oven. This is one of my favorite breakfast ideas!
Thick and creamy homemade yogurt is so easy to make at home with just 2 ingredients, a heavy pot, and just a few minutes of actual hands on prep work.
Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole
Make this easy make-ahead egg and potato breakfast casserole by simply combining all the ingredients into a casserole dish, pop it in the oven and let it do its thing.
Roasted Asparagus with Poached Eggs
Roasted asparagus with poached eggs is a match made in food heaven. Serve this topped with fresh herbs and lots of black pepper for a classy, elevated brunch dish that will leave you feeling light, but completely satisfied.
Layer fresh fruits, creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola to make this fruit and yogurt parfait for a delicious and healthy breakfast or a simple snack. It's one of the easiest breakfast ideas.
Mediterranean Scrambled Eggs with spinach, tomato, and feta is loaded with flavor and a quick and easy breakfast to make in under 10 minutes (with prep!). One of the easiest breakfast ideas.
Caprese Frittata is light and fluffy, laced with fresh basil and topped with melted mozzarella cheese and blistered balsamic tomatoes. Ready in 10 minutes!
Mediterranean Diet Salads
Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad
Quick and easy Mediterranean orzo pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables and herbs is tossed in a Greek lemon vinaigrette. Healthy, light and delicious. A light and fresh Mediterranean Diet recipe.
Mediterranean Chickpea Wedge Salad
Mediterranean chickpea wedge salad combines chickpeas, crunchy vegetable toppings, and hummus dressing for a delicious deconstructed falafel flavour.
The perfect Greek salad with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, green peppers, romaine lettuce, olives and feta cheese tossed in a lemon vinaigrette.
Watermelon feta salad with cucumbers and mint is a simple and delicious refreshing summer salad that you can toss together in 5 minutes.
Mediterranean Buckwheat Salad is quick, easy, and delicious. Loaded with superfood buckwheat, this salad is healthy, naturally gluten-free, and vegetarian.
Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad
Quick and easy tomato and mozzarella caprese salad is a fresh, light, and delicious summer salad, made with just a few simple ingredients in 10 minutes.
Take a bite into this refreshing, gluten-free quinoa and spinach salad bursting with colourful tomatoes, cucumbers and raisins.
Grilled shrimp salad is a quick and easy, healthy summer meal that is loaded with fresh, flavorful ingredients, all tossed in an easy homemade dressing.
Simple tomato cucumber avocado salad with a delicious lemon vinaigrette is a light and refreshing salad that comes together in literally 5 minutes.
Persian Shirazi Salad with Cucumber and Tomato
Healthy, light and refreshing Persian Shirazi salad with cucumber and tomato is a simple salad packed with herbs and tossed in an olive oil and lime dressing.
Plant-Based Mediterranean Diet Recipes
Homemade falafel are delicious, golden brown and crispy on the outside, fluffy tender and soft inside. Plus, they're vegan, loaded with plant-based protein. A classic Mediterranean Diet recipe.
Chickpea Greek salad is a fresh, healthy, vibrant, and colorful salad, packed with traditional Mediterranean ingredients, superfoods, and nutrients.
Whip up smooth and creamy classic hummus dip at home in just 5 minutes, by combining chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic in the blender. Serve it with veggies or crackers, or use it in a vegan hummus wrap.
Baked Mediterranean pasta is simple, flavorful, and vibrant, loaded with fresh tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and olives, and topped with mozzarella cheese.
Easy 20-Minute One Pot Lentils are a healthy, nourishing, and delicious vegan meal that is easy to make in a few simple steps. Make a big batch and freeze!
Quick and easy pesto penne pasta is a simple and light Italian pasta dish made with just five ingredients in under 15 minutes. The easiest summer dinner recipe. If you like this recipe, try Mascarpone Pesto Pasta.
Baba ganoush is a creamy, roasted eggplant dip mixed with garlic and tahini for an explosion of flavour! It is perfect served with pita chips or veggies.
Minestrone soup is a hearty, healthy, nourishing, and delicious classic Italian soup, packed with vegetables and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth.
Easy Tomato Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze
Tomato bruschetta with balsamic glaze is an easy Italian appetizer topped with tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil and olive oil. Delicious, fresh and simple. The perfect light Super Bowl recipe.
Easy vegan stuffed bell peppers are filled with brown rice, mushrooms, veggies, and seasonings, then baked for 40 minutes. It's a perfect summer weeknight dinner. Serve it with a Classic Coleslaw on the side.
One Pot Red Kidney Beans are vegan, healthy, hearty, nourishing, and packed with plant-based protein. The perfect recipe for your dried kidney bean stash!
Smooth creamy roasted red pepper hummus is a delicious, flavourful, vegan + gluten-free dip. This healthy appetizer is easy to make with a few ingredients.
Indian-inspired, vegan, creamy coconut curry lentil soup is an easy and simple 30-minute pantry meal that is packed with spices for maximum flavour. Serve it as a soup or as a curry over some coconut rice.
This bright and colourful Greek salad hummus flatbread is perfect as an appetizer or a healthy lunch or snack.
Mediterranean Seafood Recipes
Greek salmon is delicious, flaky, and tender. This healthy oven-baked salmon is packed with Mediterranean flavors and is ready in just 20 minutes.
Mediterranean Baked Shrimp Orzo
Mediterranean baked shrimp orzo is a complete wholesome one pot meal with delicious sautéed vegetables, juicy shrimp, and orzo pasta. Make it in 30 minutes.
Garlic shrimp skewers are delicious and full of fresh flavor. These quick and easy kabobs can be grilled, baked or air fried for an easy summer dinner.
Tender, flaky, flavorful garlic butter salmon is well-seasoned, seared to perfection, and basted until juicy. Quick and easy to make in 20 minutes.
Flaky, oily, and tender, miso black cod (or sablefish) packed with delicious Asian flavours is an indulgent meal that's as healthy as it is delicious.
Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
Shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles is filling, yet surprisingly light! Since we are using fresh zucchini noodles, you will feel no guilt in sopping up the sauce with an extra crusty piece of bread!
Pistachio-crusted salmon is a gourmet dinner without the gourmet skills! Prepare this with a handful of ingredients in less than 20 minutes!
Garlicky, buttery, and perfectly seared scallops take less than 10 minutes to prep and cook. It's the easiest fancy, restaurant-grade meal to make at home.
Mediterranean Recipes with Meat
Delicious, moist and juicy Mediterranean chicken patties have everything you want in one bite: protein, veggies, herbs, and they're quick and easy to make. Serve it on it's own, with hamburger buns, or a side of Basmati rice.
Homemade chicken shawarma (donair) with juicy tender chicken marinated in Middle Eastern spices and wrapped in pita bread is easy to make at home. Serve it with a Persian Shirazi Salad on the side.
Easy Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers
Easy Greek chicken souvlaki skewers marinated in garlic, fresh herbs, lemon and bay leaves for that classic Mediterranean flavour. Grill in under 15 minutes. Serve alongside some easy Homemade Tzatziki Sauce. One of my favorite summer dinner recipes!
Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki
This refreshing and light, easy Greek chicken gyros is packed with tender souvlaki chicken, Greek salad, and homemade tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in a pita.
Quick and easy, grilled Greek lamb souvlaki skewers are marinated in a simple Mediterranean marinade for just 30 minutes. Serve with some tzatziki sauce. Serve over top of Rice Pilaf and Greek Salad on the side. So delicious.
Baked caprese chicken is tender, juicy, and delicious, topped with burst tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Mediterranean turkey burgers are tender, juicy, and delicious, loaded with garlic, fresh dill, and lemon juice. The perfect summer weeknight meal.
Easy Greek souvlaki beef shish kebabs are marinated in a garlicky lemony olive oil marinade and threaded with fresh vegetables. Cook on the grill or oven. Serve them wrapped inside some Homemade Pita Bread.
More Healthy Recipes
- 60+ Healthy Dinner Ideas
- 50+ Healthy Lunch Ideas
- 50+ Best Healthy Snacks
- 45 Best Keto Recipes
- 15 Best Salmon Recipes
- 40 Best Shrimp Recipes
Did You Make Any of These Mediterranean Diet Recipes?
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Homemade Hamburger Helper
Homemade hamburger helper is a family favorite but you can make a cheaper, healthier, and way tastier version at home. This flavorful pasta dinner features tender elbow macaroni, juicy lean ground beef, and plenty of cheddar cheese to create a delicious cheesy sauce. It's a quick and easy dinner ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you are feeling lazy. Try this cheeseburger macaroni pasta tonight!
Why You'll Love This Homemade Hamburger Helper
- It's quick and easy. Why buy store-bought when you can make it fast at home with real ingredients? This easy cheeseburger macaroni pasta dinner is ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it's kid-friendly so you likely won't be left with any leftovers.
- It's healthier than store-bought. Homemade hamburger helper is healthier than it's store-bought alternative. We all know that processed and packaged food isn't as good for us as fresh, whole foods. Since this homemade hamburger helper is made with lean ground beef, macaroni, and real cheese, you can feel good about what you're eating and feeding your family.
- It's delicious and flavorful. Don't get me wrong. Hamburger helper from the grocery store is good, but this homemade version is so delicious. You'll love the creamy cheesy sauce, tender macaroni, and lean ground beef. It's why we make this homemade hamburger helper recipe on repeat ever week. It tastes so good!
- A one pot meal. One pot meals are our favorite to make on busy weeknights because it means less mess in the kitchen, less dishes to clean, and easy to throw together. One pot dinners typically contain something starchy, a proten, and veggies all combined together in a delicious cozy meal.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this easy homemade hamburger helper from scratch, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- vegetable oil
- ground beef - traditional hamburger helpers are made with ground beef, but you could easily substitute with any ground meat that you want. Try it with ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork - of course the flavor will change based on the meat you are using.
- onion - I recommend fresh onion for the best flavor. If you don't have any on hand, you could substitute the small onion with 1-2 teaspoons of onion powder or 1-2 tablespoons of dried onion flakes.
- garlic - we prefer the potent flavor of freshly minced garlic, but you can easily substitute it with ¾ teaspoon of garlic powder if that's what you have on hand.
- tomato paste
- seasoning - seasoned with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- milk - you can substitute the milk with 1:1 cream for a richer and creamier dish. You can also substitute with sour cream which will also add creaminess and add a tangy flavor. You can substitute it 1:1 or think out the sour cream with a little water.
- beef broth - I recommend homemade beef broth or low-sodium broth for added flavor while controlling the salt content. You could also substitute with vegetable broth or just use water.
- elbow macaroni pasta -  although traditionally made with elbow macaroni, you can substitute with any other small pasta noodles that you like such as penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta.
- cheddar cheese - for a cheesier sauce, feel free to add an extra cup of cheese. You can also play around with different types of cheese. Try a Tex Mex cheese blend for a Mexican twist.
- fresh parsley - optional for serving and adds a little fiber.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons and a large skillet or shallow saucepan.
How to Make the Best Homemade Hamburger Helper
- Cook ground beef. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until the oil is sizzling hot, about 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Break up beef into small pieces to help even browning.
- Sauté aromatics. Add onion and garlic and sauté until tender, about 2 minutes. Add tomato paste and mix until well incorporated and season with salt, pepper and paprika.
- Cook macaroni. Add milk, beef broth, and uncooked macaroni. Stir well and bring to a boil. Cover the lid and simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Add cheese. Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well combined. Sprinkle parsley on top and serve immediately.
How to Serve
Homemade hamburger helper is a delicious and filling meal packed with carbs and proteins - but it's pairs really nice with some veggies in there too. I like to add some on the side or right on top, such as:
Storing Instructions
- How to store: Keep leftover cheeseburger macaroni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- How to reheat: Reheat leftover hamburger helper over the stove on medium-low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened up too much in the fridge. You can also reheat in a covered microwave-safe dish on medium heat until warmed through, about 1-3 minutes.
- How to freeze: This homemade hamburger helper recipe freezes well too. Once cooled to room temperature, store any leftovers in a freezer-safe airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
More Pasta Recipes
- 40 Best Pasta Recipes
- Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar
- Baked Mac and Cheese
- Spaghetti Bolognese
- Ground Turkey Pasta Bake
- Italian Meatballs
- Beef Stroganoff
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is rich, vibrant, and loaded with flavor. It's an easy recipe to make with just a few simple ingredients -whole tomatoes are simmered with sautéed onions and garlic, fresh basil, and seasoning. This tomato sauce is delicious served on it's own as a dip with a side of Garlic Breadsticks, but it also forms an essential ingredient for so many dishes-from pasta and pizzas to stuffed peppers and chicken dinners. If you want to skip the store-bought sauce, save money, and make your own homemade marinara sauce with real ingredients, this recipe is exactly what you need.
Why You'll Love Marinara Sauce
- Quick and easy. From start to finish, you'll be done with this homemade marinara in just 25 minutes, and most of that time is spent allowing the tomatoes to simmer. It's really convenient to make while waiting for other meals to bake in the oven. I recommend baking some Garlic Breadsticks or other crust bread for dipping!
- Tastes way better than store-bought. Store-bought sauce is good, but it's typically also loaded with preservatives and filler ingredients, and lacks the freshness of a homemade marinara sauce. When you taste this marinara (which is seasoned with fresh ingredients like basil, garlic, onion, and more), you'll see what I mean. It is bursting with flavor.
- It will save you money. Although this recipe won't save you the time or convenience of buying pre-made marinara sauce, it will save you money. Canned tomatoes cost about a third the price (or less!) than store-bought sauce. In the long run, those dollars will add up.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this easy homemade marinara sauce, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- olive oil
- onion
- garlic
- dried oregano - you can also substitute this for Italian seasoning.
- red pepper flakes - this is optional, for a kick.
- tomatoes
- basil
- salt and pepper
- sugar - a little sugar helps to balance out the acidity in the tomatoes. You can leave this out if you prefer.
You will also need measuring spoons and a medium pot (I used my 4 qt. Dutch oven).
How to Make the Best Marinara Sauce
- Sauté aromatics. Heat oil in a medium pot or 4 qt. Dutch oven for 2 minutes over medium high heat until the hot oil sizzles. Add onion and garlic. Sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with oregano and red pepper flakes (if using) and stir well to combine.
- Add tomatoes and simmer. Add whole tomatoes and use a spatula to gently break them apart. Stir in basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Cover the lid and bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat. Stir occasionally and let it simmer until thickened to a desired consistency, about 15-20 minutes.
- Puree (optional). Optionally, you can use a potato masher, immersion blender, or food processor to puree the marinara to a smoother texture.
Storing Instructions
- How to store: Leftover marinara sauce will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge in an airtight container.
- How to freeze: Freeze leftover marinara sauce for up to six months in an airtight container or freezer bag. I recommend portioning it into serving sizes before freezing.
- How to thaw: Thaw pasta sauce in the refrigerator overnight. If you're in a rush, you can heat it in a covered pan over medium-low heat until thawed.
- How to reheat: Reheat marinara over medium-low heat in a covered pan on the stovetop until warmed through, about 5 minutes. You can also microwave it in 20-30 second intervals on medium heat in the microwave. It will splatter if microwaved, so don't forget to cover it.
More Sauce Recipes
- Tahini Sauce
- Buffalo Sauce
- Slow Cooker Applesauce
- Salted Caramel Sauce
- Homemade Enchilada Sauce
- Cranberry Sauce
Tried this recipe?
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Chili Nachos
Homemade chili nachos are crispy, cheesy, delicious, and flavorful. This modern twist on a Mexican classic features tortilla chips layered with cheddar cheese, chili, fresh cilantro, and sour cream for an indulgent, satisfying, and filling experience. They are my favorite way to use up any leftover chili in the fridge (but store-bought chili works too!). Serve this crowd-pleaser on Game Day or on Mexican Fiesta night and watch everyone immediately reach for seconds after their first bite.
Why You'll Love Chili Nachos
- The best use of leftover chili. I love this chili nacho recipe because it works with any chili. Whether you like your chili with a lot of beans and beef (like in Slow Cooker Beef Chili or One Pot Chili) or with ground turkey and veggies, you can have these chili nachos your way. You can even make them vegetarian with Vegetarian Chili!
- Cheesy nachos with a classic cheese pull. This chili nacho recipe is really a guideline that can be easily modified. I think two cups of shredded cheese for one 12 ounce bag of tortilla chips is perfect - but you can add or subtract to your liking. If you want more cheese, then add more cheese. Less cheese? Go for it.
- Who doesn't love quick and easy nachos? Seriously. Just like our popular Sheet Pan Nachos, these sheet pan chili nachos are ready in just 25 minutes. They are a quick meal that you can fit into your work-from-home lunch break, on busy weeknights on Fiesta night, or a classic on Game Day.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this easy homemade teriyaki sauce, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- tortilla chips - for the best results, you want sturdy, thick restaurant-style tortilla chips for these chili nachos. They'll hold up better when it's time to deliver the chili to your mouth!
- cheddar cheese - use any kind of cheddar that you like, whether that's white cheddar, yellow cheddar, or Monterey Jack. You can also use a Tex Mex cheese blend.
- leftover chili - this is a great recipe to use up any leftover chili like Slow Cooker Beef Chili, Vegetarian Chili, or One Pot Chili. You can also use store-bought chili for convenience.
- cilantro
- sour cream
- lime wedges - optional, for serving.
You don't need to stop here. Get creative with your own toppings and consider adding your own favorite toppings, like:
- Queso Mexican Cheese
- Guacamole or avocados
- Pico de Gallo Salsa or tomatoes
- Mango Salsa
- corn
- jalapeños
- black or pinto beans
How to Make the Best Chili Nachos
- Arrange chips and cheese. Arrange tortilla chips evenly in a single layer on a quarter sheet baking pan. Top with 1 cup of cheese. Repeat with another layer of chips and the remaining cheese.
- Bake. Bake in a 375F preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the melted cheese turns golden brown and bubbly.
- Add chili. Remove the sheet pan from the oven and spread chili evenly on top. Return the sheet pan to the oven and continue baking for another 6-8 minutes until the chili is warmed through. If your chili is already warm, then you can skip this step.
- Add cold toppings. Top with cilantro, sour cream, and lime wedges (if desired) and serve immediately.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Line your pan: Use aluminum foil to line your sheet pan for easy clean-up. This trick never disappoints.
- How to store: Store nachos in a ziploc bag and press out all the air from the bag, and in the refrigerator for up to a day or two.
- How to reheat: Remove the cold toppings (sour cream and lime wedges) and place nachos on a quarter sheet baking pan. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and reheat in a preheated 300F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until cheese it melted and nachos are crispy. You can also reheat a small batch in the air fryer at 300 F for 5 minutes.
More Tortilla Recipes
- Sheet Pan Nachos
- White Chicken Chili
- Beef Taco Salad
- Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Shrimp Taco Salad
- Beef Taco Soup
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Instant Pot Beef Curry
Instant pot beef curry with potatoes and carrots is delicious, hearty, and comforting. This Indian stew is made quick and easy in the instant pot, giving you all the flavor, nutrition, and goodness of a stovetop curry but with less time and effort. It's made with yogurt to add creaminess, and is well-seasoned for incredible layers of flavors like garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. The best part? You can make this pressure cooker curry ahead of time and store it easily in the fridge or freezer. It's perfect for meal prep, and leftovers might actually taste better the next day!
Why You'll Love Instant Pot Beef Curry
- A classic curry sauce meets quality beef. This instant pot beef curry is a match made in heaven. Stewing beef, such as chuck or round, is a quality beef that isn't too expensive. Paired with a classic homemade curry sauce made with yogurt, this beef reaches new heights.
- Quick cooking in the instant pot. Pressure cookers speed up the cooking process (this cooks in just 25 minutes with a 15-minute release time) and tenderizes the beef to absolute perfection. You'll never cook curry any other way!
- It's packed with protein. One serving of this pressure cooker beef curry contains a whopping 40 grams of protein, which is a excellent source of protein.
- So flavorful. The stewing beef does more than just add protein to your meal. It also lends delicious savory notes that you can't get anywhere else. Plus, it's well-seasoned with an assortment of curry spices that you don't want to skip on.
Ingredient Notes
To make delicious and easy Instant Pot Beef Curry, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- vegetable oil - I typically use avocado oil. Coconut oil is a good option too.
- onion
- garlic + ginger
- stewing beef
- seasoning - salt, ground turmeric, cumin powder, garam masala, and bay leaves (optional).
- tomato paste
- plain yogurt - we love using our Homemade Yogurt in this recipe. You will be surprised to find out how easy it is to make at home.
- vegetables - we used some classic filling veggies like carrots and potatoes. I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes in this recipe. Some other vegetables that you could throw in here are cauliflower or sweet potatoes.
- water
You will also need measuring cups and spoons and a pressure cooker like an instant pot.
The secret to good curry is to spice it up! Don't be shy when it comes to the seasoning, and feel free to add in your own favorite spicy ingredients.
How to Make the Best Instant Pot Beef Curry
- Sauté aromatics.Turn on the Sauté function on high on the instant pot. Add oil and heat until the hot oil sizzles, about 1 minute. Add onion, garlic, and ginger and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Sear beef. Add cubed beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. The beef shanks don't need to be fully cooked at this point.
- Add remaining ingredients. Add salt, turmeric, garam masala, and bay leaves. Stir well. Stir in tomato paste and yogurt until evenly mixed. Add carrots, potatoes and water. Mix until well combined.
- Pressure cook. Put the lid on and switch to pressure cooking mode on manual High. Seal the lid (the steam release knob must be turned to the sealed position) and let the beef curry pressure cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Once the time is up, you can let the instant pot slowly release the pressure, about 15 minutes or quick release the remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position. Season with more salt to taste and serve.
How to Serve
You typically need a starchy side to serve along a Beef Curry like this so that it can soak up all that delicious sauce. Some of my favorite sides to serve with this are:
Storing and Freezing Instructions
- How to store: Leftover instant pot beef curry can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- How to freeze: To lengthen its life, once cooled, transfer the beef curry to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. I'd recommend portioning it out into separate meal prep containers for easy reheating. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- How to reheat: Instant pot beef curry tastes best when you reheat over the stovetop on medium heat, stirring frequently. If the curry becomes too thick, stir in some water.
More Instant Pot Recipes
- Instant Pot Cranberry Chicken
- Butternut Squash Soup in the Instant Pot
- Instant Pot Whole Chicken
- Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
- Pressure Cooker Mashed Potatoes
- Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Egg Muffins
Egg muffins are a quick and easy way to meal prep breakfast on-the-go throughout the week. Loaded with cheddar cheese, salami or bacon bits, and green onions, these breakfast egg bites are delicious, flavourful, and provide enough energy to keep you going all morning. The best part? It only takes 30 minutes to make 12 of them. They are perfect for meal prep and are completely customizable so you can switch up the flavors based on what you have on hand.
Why You'll Love Egg Muffins
- Quick and easy meal prep. These egg muffins are one of the easiest breakfast meal preps you'll ever make. Made with a dozen eggs and a few other simple ingredients (that are totally customizable!), you can make breakfast or snacks for the whole week in just thirty minutes. If you love this, you will also love our Tex Mex Egg Muffins.
- Eggs are a nutritious and healthy. The opinions on eggs are varied, but the bottom line is that eggs are good in moderation - and moderation is less than three a day (which might seem like a lot). With tons of protein and essential vitamins, these crustless mini quiches will keep you feeling full and energized well past the morning. Plus, they are keto and gluten-free too. You can also leave out the salami to make it vegetarian.
- Bacon and cheese makes everything better. The bacon and cheese bring a lot of delicious, savory, and salty flavor to these egg bites. Just be careful not to oversalt them though.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make easy egg muffins, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- eggs
- cheddar cheese - can substitute with your favorite cheese. Try Parmesan, gouda, guyere, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella.
- salami - can substitute with cooked bacon bits or chopped ham. Or you can leave it out or add in more vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- green onions
- salt and pepper
You will also need a 12-cup silicone muffin pan and mixing bowl.
How To Make the Best Egg Muffins
- Prep. Prepare a 12-cup silicone muffin pan by spraying generously with cooking spray oil. Add and divide cheddar cheese, salami, and green onion evenly into each cup.
- Add egg mixture. In a large measuring cup or mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour egg mixture ¾ full into each cup and gently stir the mixture with a spoon to help disperse the cheese and salami evenly.
- Bake. Bake in a 350F preheated oven for 20 minutes until fully set.
- Serve. Serve immediately. You can store the egg muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Easy cleanup tip: Use a 12-cup silicone muffin pan or paper cupcake liners (or reusable silicone liners) for easy cleanup and takeout.
- How to store: Store leftover egg muffins in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Allow them to cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container or wrapping individually in plastic cling wrap.
- How to freeze: Allow these egg muffins to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To eat, allow them to thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours. They're a super easy breakfast to meal prep for the next few months!
- How to reheat: You can eat these egg bites warm or cold (no need to reheat!). To reheat, pop them into a 350F preheated oven for 10 minutes, or air fryer for 5 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, on a low heat setting for 15-second intervals.
More Egg Recipes
- Tex Mex Egg Muffins
- Spring Vegetable Frittata
- Shakshuka
- Poached Eggs
- Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole
- Caprese Frittata
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki chicken is a quick and easy chicken stir fry that is delicious, flavorful, and healthy. Bite-sized pieces of chicken are stir-fried and smothered in a thick, sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce, topped with green onions and sesame seeds, and served over a bowl of steamed rice. This 30-minute Asian restaurant favorite is so much better and faster than ordering takeout. It's perfect for Sunday meal prep or a last-minute weeknight dinner because it's so quick (and there are Instant Pot instructions for even faster results!).
Why You'll Love Teriyaki Chicken
- Quick and easy to make. If you're new in the kitchen, don't worry. This recipe is incredibly easy to make. And if you've been around the block, you already know this teriyaki chicken is a simple go-to recipe that every cook needs, especially on busy weeknights. This chicken stir fry is ready in just 30 minutes. And while you cook your chicken, get your rice steaming so that the whole meal is ready in no time.
- Chicken is a clean protein. Chicken is one of the healthiest proteins you can eat, so you can feel good about feeding your family a home-cooked meal that is healthy. Plus, making Asian takeout recipes at home is so much better, healthier, and faster than ordering takeout.
- Cook it over the stove or instant pot. With this chicken stir fry recipe, you can choose to cook it over the stove, or make it even easier in the instant pot. If you love pressure cooker recipes, you will love Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice, Instant Pot Whole Chicken, and Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this easy teriyaki chicken from scratch, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- chicken breast or chicken thighs
- vegetable oil
- soy sauce
- dark soy sauce - this is optional and gives the teriyaki chicken a darker color.
- brown sugar
- ginger
- garlic
- sesame oil
- rice vinegar - or substitute with mirin. Do not substitute with balsamic vinegar. If you don't have a substitute, feel free to leave it out.
- cornstarch
- white sesame seeds - optional, for garnish on top.
- green onion - optional, for garnish on top.
You can also customize chicken teriyaki by cooking it along with some vegetables. Some of my favorites to add in to this chicken stir fry are broccoli, mushrooms, and carrots. If adding a lot of veggies, you may need to double the amount of sauce you are adding.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowl, and shallow saucepan or skillet.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken
- Prepare and sauté the chicken. Use a paper towel to pat the chicken completely dry. Cut the chicken into a 1.5-inch cubes, and set aside on a plate. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the hot oil sizzles, about 1 minute. Add chicken and sauté until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Drain the excess oil from the pan.
- Add teriyaki sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth. Stir in the sauce mixture and toss well to coat the chicken evenly. Continue to cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until thickened to a desired consistency, stirring constantly.
- Serve. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onionsb and serve warm over a bowl of steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.
How to Cook Teriyaki Chicken in the Instant Pot
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until well combined.
- Add chicken and sauce mixture into the instant pot and mix well. Put the lid on and switch to pressure cooking mode on manual High. Seal the lid (the steam release knob must be turned to the sealed position) and let the teriyaki chicken pressure cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Once the time is up, you can let the instant pot slowly release the pressure, about 15 minutes or quick release the remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water until dissolved.
- Remove the lid and turn on the Sauté function on high on the Instant Pot. Pour in the cornstarch mixture and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens to a desired consistency, stirring constantly.
What to Serve with Chicken Teriyaki
Teriyaki chicken might be the star of the show, but it pairs so well with almost anything. You can serve it over steamed rice, fried rice, and noodles, with a side of veggies that are stir-fried, steamed, or sautéed, and you can't go wrong. Some of my favorites sides to serve this with are:
- Air Fryer Broccoli
- Spring Vegetable Stir Fry
- Roasted Garlic Green Beans (Air Fryer or Oven)
- Tofu and Mushroom Stir Fry
- Stir-Fried Lotus Root
- Chinese Garlic Cucumber Salad
Storing Instructions
- How to store: Keep leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This recipe is a great one to portion out into meal prep containers with some fried rice for lunches throughout the week.
- How to reheat teriyaki chicken: You can reheat teriyaki chicken in the microwave or stovetop. To reheat on the stovetop, heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If needed, add water to thin out the glaze a bit. Alternately, reheat teriyaki chicken in the microwave on medium-low heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
More Asian Chicken Recipes
- 60 Best Chinese Takeout Recipes at Home
- Mongolian Chicken
- Kung Pao Chicken
- Healthy Lemon Chicken
- Thai Basil Chicken
- Baked Sesame Chicken
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Green Smoothie Bowl
This green smoothie bowl is healthy, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Loaded with greens and fruit (including spinach, avocado, and banana), this is the perfect recipe to give you the boost you need to get you started on the day. Plus, it's made in minutes with just a handful of simple ingredients that are completely customizable! I share my go-to ingredients, but you can add whatever you have on hand to make this thick smoothie bowl your own. Add your favorite toppings, grab a spoon, and enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a healthy dessert.
Why You'll Love This Green Smoothie Bowl
- Smoothie bowls are quick and easy. As you may have noticed, I've posted a few smoothie recipes over the years, because they are seriously the best. They literally take a minute or two to make. You require a handful of simple ingredients and a blender. You could even prep the ingredients in advance and store them into individual portions in the freezer. Then just take your portioned amount and blend it up in seconds. It's the quickest and easiest way to snack on something nutritious and delicious.
- It's a smoothie in a bowl. When I first published this post back in 2016, the smoothie bowl craze was just taking off and something that I was new to. But from the first time I tried it, I was hooked. Smoothies should be eaten with a spoon and savoured, not gulped down. Plus, it's so easy to eat the toppings when you have a spoon!
- It contains no added sugar. This homemade green smoothie bowl contains just fruit, veggies, nuts, seeds, and milk. It has no added sugar or sweeteners, unlike many store-bought smoothies which typically contains quite a bit of sugar and possibly artificial flavors. This is a recipe you can feel good about feeding to your family.
- Provides a healthy energy boost. This perfect combination of spinach (or kale), avocado, and banana will leave you feeling refreshed and sustained with that extra energy boost you need to get through the rest of the day. Plus, this nutritious bowl packed with vitamins and minerals making it so good for you.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this easy, 5-minute green smoothie bowl, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- banana - use a ripe banana for the best flavour and sweetness.
- avocado - avocado adds extra creaminess and helps to thicken it up.
- spinach - or substitute with another leafy green like kale. If using kale, I find that it helps to add a little drizzle of honey for extra sweetness, if desired.
- kiwi - or substitute with another acidic fruit like pineapple or orange to balance out the flavors in this smoothie bowl.
- milk - I used almond milk to keep the recipe vegan, but any kind of milk works. Try dairy milk, oat milk, or cashew milk.
- ice - also helps to thicken up the smoothie.
- chia seeds - this is optional, but I recommend it for extra nutrients. You can also substitute with flax seeds.
- nuts - this is also optional. You can use any nuts that you have on hand. Try almonds, pecans, or walnuts. You can also substitute with peanut butter or another nut butter.
You will also need a measuring cups and spoons and a blender.
What Toppings to Add to a Smoothie Bowl
The toppings might just be the best part of this green smoothie bowl. It's completely optional whether you want to add any toppings in the first place, but it makes the smoothie bowl so much more fun to eat. Some of my favorite toppings to add are:
- chopped fruit - try sliced banana, kiwi, or berries.
- granola - any store-bought or homemade granola works. Try Gingerbread Granola, Cinnamon Apple Granola, or Coconut Maple Walnut Granola.
- nuts - add slivered almonds or chopped nuts.
- or seeds - sprinkle extra chia seeds or flax seeds.
- shredded coconut
- honey or maple syrup - add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to add some extra sweetness
How to Make the Best Green Smoothie Bowl
Just like most smoothies, this green smoothie bowl is so quick and easy to make. Just throw all the ingredients into a blender with only half of the milk. Blend until smooth, adding more milk as needed, until desired consistency is reached. Then, divide into 2 bowls and add your favorite toppings.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to customize: You can customize this smoothie by using different kinds of nuts or nut butters, fruit, adding in some shredded coconut, or sweetening it more with maple syrup or honey, if desired. You can also customize it by the toppings that you decide to add. Refer to the "Ingredients and Substitutions" section above for more ideas.
- How to store: Smoothie bowls are best served immediately. If you have leftovers, store it an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day for the best flavor and texture. It may lose some of its thickness and get watery as the ice melts, but then you can enjoy it as a smoothie with a straw.
- How to freeze smoothie bowls: Another way to store is to freeze them. Transfer the smoothie bowl to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, take it out of the freezer and allow it to defrost slightly on the counter for about 10 minutes. You should be able to easily eat it with a spoon.
More Smoothie Recipes
- Super Berry Smoothie Bowl
- Mango Pineapple Tropical Smoothie Bowl
- Healthy Mango Yogurt Smoothie
- Majoon (Banana and Date) Smoothie
- Strawberry and Banana Smoothie
Tried this recipe?
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This post was originally published in January 2016. It has been completely updated with new photographs and content.
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Peppers
Chicken parmesan stuffed peppers are delicious, healthy, and filling. This recipe combines two all-time favorites: chicken parmesan and stuffed bell peppers - and the results are phenomenal. These chicken parm stuffed bell peppers deliver flavorful, cheesy, saucy, chicken parmesan goodness wrapped inside soft and vibrant bell peppers. They are seriously loved by all who try them. Plus, stuffed peppers are easy to make ahead, freezes well, and great for meal prep.
Why You'll Love Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Classic chicken parm ingredients. Chicken parmigiana is one of my favorite meals of all time. After all, what's not to love about breaded and baked chicken with cheese and marinara sauce on top? Well, with these chicken parmesan stuffed peppers, you get to enjoy all the same flavors - chicken breasts, panko breadcrumbs, mozzarella, parmesan, and marinara sauce, but made healthier and wrapped up inside a delicious bell pepper.
- A filling and healthy meal. These chicken parmesan stuffed bell peppers are a one-dish wonder. They are wholesome and filling so you don't need to worry about cooking up extra side dishes. Everything you want in a meal is inside those peppers - protein, vegetables, dairy, and grains.
- They're great for meal prep. Stuffed peppers are easy to make ahead and store, and freeze really well too, which makes chicken parm stuffed bell peppers perfect for meal prep too. It makes the perfect low carb and healthy lunch throughout the week.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make delicious chicken parmesan stuffed peppers, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- bell peppers - Look for peppers that are large and round and easy to stuff. You can feel free to use any color that you want.
- cooked chicken - this is one of my favorite recipes to use up any leftover chicken from a Roast Whole Chicken, Air Fryer Chicken Breast, or store-bought rotisserie chicken. You can also substitute with leftover turkey.
- panko breadcrumbs
- cheese - for that classic chicken parmesan flavor, we will need both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- parsley
- olive oil
- tomato sauce - you can also substitute with marinara sauce.
- salt and pepper
- garlic powder
- water - for the water bath for baking. This creates steam in the pan when baking, which makes the stuffed peppers tender more quickly.
How to Customize
The best thing about this recipe is that you can customize it and make it your own. Try:
- substituting eggplant for the chicken to make it vegetarian.
- adding fried onions, steamed spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to the filling for a veggie-packed option.
- using your favorite cheese blends instead of or in addition to mozzarella and parmesan. For instance, give it a Mexican twist with a Tex Mex cheese blend.
- using more or less cheese and sauce to suit your tastes.
How to Make the Best Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Peppers
- Prepare the bell peppers. Cut the peppers in half vertically. Remove and discard the seeds. Place the bell peppers in a 9x13-inch casserole pan or large half sheet baking pan and set aside.
- Make the chicken parmesan stuffing. In a large mixing bowl, add chicken, breadcrumbs, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, parsley, oil, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well until evenly incorporated.
- Stuff the peppers. Fill up each pepper with the chicken filling and top with 1 tablespoonful mozzarella cheese.
- Make a water bath. Add water to the casserole dish and cover the dish with aluminum foil. This creates steam in the casserole dish when baking, which makes the stuffed peppers tender more quickly.
- Bake. Bake in 375F preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and remove the foil. Continue baking uncovered for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted. Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to store: Keep leftover chicken parmesan stuffed bell peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- How to freeze: Stuffed peppers freeze and reheat well. Store the cooked stuffed bell peppers (or just the cooked chicken filling) in an airtight container with the cut side up for up to 3 months.
- How to reheat: Reheat cold stuffed peppers in the oven. Place them in an oven-safe casserole dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Reheat in a 350F preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat in air fryer for 10 minutes at 350F or in the microwave.
More Stuffed Peppers
- 10 Best Stuffed Peppers Recipes
- Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
- Leftover Turkey Stuffed Peppers
- Mexican Stuffed Peppers
- Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Chili Stuffed Peppers
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Spinach Artichoke Dip
If you're searching for the best spinach artichoke dip, look no further. This warm baked dip is easy, creamy, flavorful, and delicious. Made with a rich and cheesy base, flavored with fresh garlic, and packed with just enough artichokes and spinach for a perfect balance of ingredients. Spread this homemade spinach artichoke dip on toasted bread or crackers or include it in a charcuterie board. Either way, this recipe with be finished quick. It's a keeper.
Why You'll Love Spinach Artichoke Dip
- It's so easy to make. This hot spinach artichoke dip consists of three simple steps. Mix your ingredients. Spread them in an oven-safe dish. Bake for 20 minutes. That's it! Like most of our dip recipes, you (and everyone else) will love how fast and easy this warm spinach dip is.
- It's ready to eat in just 30 minutes. Did I mention this recipe is fast? It's ready in just 30 minutes, so you can wait until the last minute to get it started. If you're making this easy spinach artichoke dip for a party or family gathering, the convenience of this recipe will really come in handy.
- It has the perfect balance of flavors. This spinach artichoke dip has layered flavors thanks to the addition of multiple creamy ingredients and just enough garlic. In this recipe, you don't have to worry about using too little or too much garlic. It's so good.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this easy spinach artichoke dip, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- spinach - I made this dip easily with frozen spinach. You can also use 8 ounces of fresh spinach (cooked then drained).
- artichoke hearts
- cream cheese
- mayonnaise
- sour cream
- garlic
- cheese - Parmesan cheese (or asiago cheese) and mozzarella cheese (or cheddar cheese).
- ground black pepper
You will also need measuring cups and spoons and a 1 quart baking dish.
How to Make the Best Spinach Artichoke Dip
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, parmesan, mozzarella, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined.
- Drain the artichokes and spinach well. Add them to the mixing bowl and mix until well incorporated.
- Spoon the mixture evenly into a 1 quart baking dish. Bake in 350F preheated oven for 20 minutes until bubbly and heated through. Serve immediately with crackers of toasted baguette slices.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Drain the spinach: To avoid a watery dip, make sure you drain your spinach and artichokes as much as humanely possible. Press them into a cheesecloth or mesh wire strainer to remove excess water.
- How to use leftovers: You can use leftovers to create something new like this delicious Spinach Artichoke Pasta.
- How to store: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic cling wrap (or transfer leftover spinach artichoke dip in an airtight container) and store in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.
- How to reheat: You can eat this spinach artichoke dip cold. You can also reheat it in the microwave or in the oven the same way you baked it the first time - for 20 minutes at 350F.
More Dip Recipes
- 20 Best Dip Recipes
- Baked Spinach Dip
- Caramelized Onion Dip
- Whipped Ricotta Dip
- Queso Mexican Cheese Dip
- Whipped Feta
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Homemade Popcorn
Homemade popcorn from scratch is quick and easy to make at home, a delicious and healthy snack, and is completely customizable with your favorite seasonings. After you try it, you'll likely never reach for store-bought bagged popcorn again. Stovetop popcorn tastes fresher (because it is!), and it's not as easy to burn. And if you're impatient to start your movie night in, don't worry. Homemade popcorn cooks in just minutes over the stove, with no fancy popcorn machine required, so you can get back to what really matter.
Why You'll Love Homemade Popcorn
- Homemade popcorn is healthier. Both the sweet and savory versions of this homemade popcorn are much healthier when compared to their store-bought alternatives, whether they're pre-popped or not. They are light, low-calorie, and healthy. Plus, stovetop popcorn lacks preservatives and excess fats, and it provides more protein and fiber comparatively.
- Homemade popcorn is cheaper. If the healthy eating part didn't sell you, maybe the fact that homemade popcorn is cheaper will. Since you're DIYing this popcorn, you can buy the kernels in bulk and skip out on the extra packaging, processing, pre-popping, preservatives, and everything else they charge you for.
- You've got options. This homemade popcorn recipe lays everything out for you, so you can make the decisions on how you want your popcorn to pop and taste. You're in charge when it comes to this fast and easy recipe.
- It's completely customizable. You can customize it in any way with whatever seasoning and spices that you want. Our go-to is this vegan version made slightly cheesy with a secret ingredient that also adds a nutritional boost. But if you'd prefer sweet popcorn over savory, we've got a cinnamon sugar alternative popcorn coating for you to try!
Ingredients and Equipment
To make easy homemade popcorn at home, you only need popcorn kernels and seasoning. Popcorn is completely customizable based on what seasoning you add. You can simply add some classic butter and salt, or try out some other options. My favorite is savory vegan popcorn.
- vegetable oil
- salt
- garlic powder
- nutritional yeast - this is the secret ingredient that gives this vegan popcorn a cheesy flavor without any cheese.
For a sweet version, use melted butter, sugar, and ground cinnamon (or cocoa powder).
You will also need thick-bottomed skillet (like a cast-iron skillet) or cooking pot and a mixing bowl.
How to Make the Best Homemade Popcorn
- Cook the popcorn. There are two ways to make homemade popcorn. You can make it using the low heat method or medium heat method.
- Low heat method: Place the popcorn kernels in a single layer on a thick-bottomed skillet or cooking pot. Turn the heat on low and close the lid. Once the skillet is hot enough, the kernels will start to pop after about 5-7 minutes. Shake the skillet gently and continue cooking over low heat until you can no longer hear kernels popping, about 2-3 minutes.
- Medium heat method: Over medium heat, heat 2-3 popcorn kernels on a thick-bottomed skillet stove or cooking pot with the lid on until the kernels pop, about 2-3 minutes. This ensures the hot skillet is ready. Once the kernels pop, spread the rest of the popcorn kernels in a single layer in the skillet and close the lid. The kernels will start popping quickly, about 30 seconds. Shake the skillet gently and let the kernels cook over medium heat until you can no longer hear kernels popping, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add seasoning. Transfer the popcorn into a large mixing bowl. Add seasoning (oil, salt, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast) and toss well to coat. Serve immediately.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Heavier pans are better for homemade popcorn: Heavy thick-bottomed pans (like a cast-iron skillet) are better than lightweight pans at dispersing heat evenly. They give a more even pop and won't create extra hot spots that could burn some popcorn kernels.
- Avoid steam: If you see a lot of steam while popping corn, let it out by tipping the lid. This will ensure your homemade popcorn is crisp and delicious-not soggy and sad.
- How to store: Homemade popcorn is best eaten fresh. If you have any leftovers, store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
More Snack Recipes
- 50+ Best Healthy Snacks
- Roasted Chestnuts
- Candied Pecans
- Baked Apple Chips
- Gingerbread Granola
- No Bake Protein Energy Bites
Tried this recipe?
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Southern Black Eyed Peas
Southern Black Eyed Peas (also known as Hoppin' John) is a classic Southern comfort food that is hearty, delicious, and comforting. It's typically served on New Year's to bring good luck and fortune in the coming year. Soaked black eyed peas are added to well seasoned, sautéed vegetables and broth and simmered with sausage until ready to serve. It's loaded with flavor from the smoky sausage and the assortment of spices. Serve this traditional Southern meal over a bowl of rice or with a side of cornbread.
Why You'll Love Southern Black Eyed Peas
- Loaded with protein. You have double the protein with meat and beans. And beans are seriously underrated. Black eyed peas (also known as cowpeas or cream peas) are cream-colored beans with a distinctive black dot. They have all the nutrition you need for one meal packed into a single ingredient. You get healthy carbs from fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
- It's so flavorful. With a delicious combination of seasoning, these beans are not lacking any flavor. They're well seasoned with bay leaves, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- A bowl of Southern comfort food. Something about Southern comfort food just hits differently. This recipe is a total crowd pleaser and is especially satisfying on a cold winter day. They are also really filling so you won't find yourself snacking on something else an hour later.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make these easy Southern Black Eyed Peas, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- black eyed peas - the beans need to be soaked in water overnight, so if you are thinking of making this recipe, you will need to plan ahead.
- Italian sausage - we used turkey sausage, but feel free to use sausage made with ground pork or turkey. You can also leave this out and keep the recipe vegan if you prefer.
- olive oil
- onion
- garlic
- celery
- seasoning - these beans are well seasoned with bay leaves, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- tomato paste
- chicken broth - feel free to substitute with vegetable broth to make this recipe vegan.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons and a 5.5 quart Dutch oven.
How to Make the Best Southern Black Eyed Peas
- Cook sausage. Heat oil in a 5.5 quart Dutch oven or large pot over medium high heat until the hot oil sizzles, about 1 minute. Add sausage and sauté until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside on a plate.
- Sauté aromatics. In the same pot, add onion, garlic, celery, and bay leaves. Sauté until tender, about 3 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, oregano, cumin, paprika, and tomato paste. Stir well until evenly mixed.
- Add black eyed peas and simmer. Add soaked black eyed peas along with chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer covered until black eyed peas are tender, about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add sausage. Return sautéed sausage back to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and continue simmering uncovered for 10 minutes until thickened a bit.
- Serve. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a side of rice or cornbread if desired.
How to Cook in the Instant Pot
You can also easily cook these Southern Black Eyed Peas in the Instant Pot. Turn on the Sauté function on high on your pressure cooker. Add oil and heat until the hot oil sizzles, about 1 minute. Add sausage and sauté until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
Add onion, garlic, celery and bay leaves. Sauté until tender, about 3 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, oregano, cumin, paprika and tomato paste. Stir well until evenly mixed. Add soaked peas and chicken broth.
Put the lid on and switch to pressure cooking mode on manual High. Seal the lid (the steam release knob must be turned to the sealed position) and let the black eyed peas pressure cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Once the time is up, you can let the instant pot slowly release the pressure, about 15 minutes or quick release the remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Make this recipe vegetarian: This recipe is really easy to customize to make it vegetarian or vegan. Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the meat. The result is very delicious.
- How to store: Keep leftover southern black eyed peas in an airtight container in the fridge (or in the same pot with the lid covered) for 3-4 days. Since there is meat in this recipe, they won't last as long as they would if they were made completely vegetarian.
- How to freeze: You can freeze leftover southern black eyed peas for up to 6 months in an airtight container or freezer bag. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- How to reheat: Reheat cold beans over the stovetop on medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add water or chicken broth to thin out liquids if they thicken up too much when storing.
More Bean Recipes
- How to Cook Dried Beans
- 20-Minute Lentils
- Vegetarian Chili
- One Pot Kidney Beans
- Curried White Bean Crostini
- Easy Lima Beans
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Beef Wild Rice Soup
Creamy beef wild rice soup is the kind of warm and cozy meal that we crave on a cold winter night. It's savory, flavorful, and delicious. Packed with vegetables like mushrooms, onion, carrots, and celery, this soup brings nutrition to the table inside a comforting bowl. The best part? You can even use holiday leftovers like leftover roast beef to make this already easy one pot soup even easier to make. Make a big batch of beef rice soup because it stores and freezes really well!
Why You'll Love Beef Wild Rice Soup
- A delicious healthy soup recipe. This beef wild rice soup brings you the best of both worlds. The creamy beef broth full of cooked veggies and tender beef is absolutely delicious, and it's healthy, too. With this soup, you get all the protein, fiber, and essential nutrients you need in one meal.
- It's so easy to make. Are you looking for an easy soup recipe? This is it. Although this beef wild rice mushroom soup does take about an hour to cook, but 45 minutes of that time it's simmering away in the pot so you don't actually have to do anything (other than the occasional stir).
- It's a one pot meal. This also adds to how easy it is to make this beef rice soup. Life is just made simpler when you have a recipe where you cook all the ingredients in one pot. It means you get a great meal and wash less dishes (since there's only one pot to clean!). Plus, you can store leftovers in that same pot. It's the best.
- Wild rice makes everything better. Adding wild rice to soup just takes it to another level. It adds its own distinct and delicious flavor but also acts like a sponge and soaks up all the flavor of the soup. You'll love the taste of tender wild rice that's been cooked in beef broth.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this easy and delicious Beef Wild Rice Soup, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- vegetable oil
- beef - I recommend using beef flank steak or leftover roast beef. This is the best way to use up any leftovers from Christmas dinner.
- butter
- vegetables - here is where you can customize this recipe and add in whatever vegetables that you like. My favorites in this soup are brown mushrooms, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- tomato paste
- beef broth - I always keep a jar of homemade Slow Cooker Bone Broth in the fridge that is perfect to throw into soups like this. Of course, store-bought broth is a great option too.
- wild rice
- heavy cream - it wouldn't be a creamy soup without cream but you can actually skip the cream in this recipe for a delicious beef wild rice soup without cream. It's totally up to your personal preference.
- salt and pepper
- parsley - optional, for garnish.
You will also need measuring cups and spoon and a 5.5 quart Dutch oven or large cooking pot.
How to Make the Best Beef Wild Rice Soup
- Sear beef. Heat oil in a 5.5-quart Dutch oven or large pot over medium high until sizzled, about 1 minute. Add beef and sauté until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside on a plate. You can also use leftover roast beef (sear until warm and browned on all sides).
- Add vegetables. In the same pot, add butter and melt over medium high until it starts to bubble, about 1 minute. Add mushrooms, onion, carrot, celery, and garlic and sauté until golden brown and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add more ingredients and simmer. Add tomato paste, broth, and rice and mix well until evenly combined. Bring the soup to a boil, about 3-4 minutes. Add the beef back into the pot, turn the heat down to medium-low, cover with the lid, and let the soup simmer until the rice is cooked and tender, about 40-45 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the rice doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.
- Stir in cream. Turn off the heat and stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add more beef broth if you like the soup a bit thinner. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to store: Store leftover beef wild rice soup covered with the in the pot or in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- How to freeze: Beef wild rice soup freezes well. Portion it into individual-sized meal prep containers or freezer bags. Then, label them and freeze for up to six months. When ready to reheat, defrost overnight in the refrigerator.
- Creamy or not creamy: You can skip the cream in this recipe for a delicious beef rice soup without cream. It's totally up to your personal preference.
- Adding more flavor: If you find that you want more flavor in your soup, try adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of citrus juice (I prefer lemon). You might also need a pinch more salt. Add it to taste.
More Soup Recipes
- 60 Best Soup Recipes
- Beef Cabbage Barley Soup
- Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup
- Beef Taco Soup
- Slow Cooker Asian Beef Noodle Soup
- Chicken and Rice Soup
Tried this recipe?
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Cranberry Sauce Smoothie
Leftover cranberry sauce smoothie is the perfect drink to enjoy the days after a big holiday dinner. Throw leftover cranberry sauce, milk, Greek yogurt, and ice into a blender and enjoy this sweet and refreshing winter smoothie in just minutes. Serve it for a quick breakfast on-the-go, as a snack throughout the day, or even for dessert.
Why You'll Love Cranberry Sauce Smoothie
- Smoothies are quick and easy to make. I love making smoothies because they are seriously so easy to make, taking just a few minutes, and are so delicious. All you need for this leftover cranberry sauce smoothie is 4 ingredients and a blender. You could even prep the ingredients in advance and store them into individual portions in the freezer. Then just take your portioned amount and blend it up in seconds. It's the quickest and easiest recipe ever.
- A boost of energy for the day. This cranberry sauce smoothie will leave you feeling refreshed with energy to get you through the day. It's an easy recipe to whip up on a busy morning to leave you full and satisfied until lunch time.
- A great way to use up leftover cranberry sauce. One of the best parts of Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner is the leftovers. I love taking leftover cranberry sauce and turning it into something new - like this cranberry smoothie. Some other delicious leftover recipes to try are Instant Pot Cranberry Chicken, Cranberry Baked Brie, and Cranberry Sauce Muffins.
Ingredients and Substitutitons
To make this easy leftover cranberry sauce smoothie, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- cranberry sauce - you can use store-bought or homemade cranberry sauce. It's best to use unsweetened or sugar-free cranberry sauce here. If your cranberry sauce is made with a lot of sugar, you may find the smoothie to be too sweet. But you can counteract that by adding in more leafy greens and omit the banana.
- milk - I used dairy milk, but any kind of milk works. Try almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk, for a vegan option.
- Greek yogurt
- ice
- spinach or kale - this is also optional, but it's delicious, adds nutrients, and helps to balance out the sweet cranberry sauce.
- almonds - nuts are optional, but I love the flavor that they add. You can substitute with any nut or nut butter that you like.
- banana - If the cranberry sauce you use is unsweetened, I would add the banana. But I recommend making the smoothie first and giving it a taste. If it needs to be sweetened, then add in the banana. Otherwise, you can leave it out.
This smoothie is completely customizable. Add in any other ingredients that you think would work. Try adding chia seeds or flax seeds, protein powder, other fruit, or a drizzle of honey.
You will also need a measuring cups and spoons and a blender.
How to Make the Best Cranberry Sauce Smoothie
Just like all smoothies, this leftover cranberry sauce smoothie is seriously the easiest recipe to make. All you need to do is throw all the ingredients into a blender, and blend until smooth. Give it a taste, and add in some banana if you think it needs to be sweetened. You could also add in a dash of honey or maple syrup instead, if needed. Then, divide into 2 glasses and enjoy.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to customize: You can customize this smoothie by using different kinds of nuts or nut butters, fruit, adding in different seeds or shredded coconut, or sweetening it with maple syrup or honey, if needed.
- How to store: Smoothies are best served immediately. If you have leftovers, store it an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. It may lose some of its thickness and get watery as the ice melts.
- How to freeze smoothies: Another way to store this smoothie is to freeze it. Transfer the leftover smoothie to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, take it out of the freezer and allow it to defrost slightly on the counter for about 10-15 minutes.
More Smoothie Recipes
- Majoon (Banana and Date) Smoothie
- Strawberry and Banana Smoothie
- Green Smoothie Bowl
- Healthy Mango Yogurt Smoothie
- Super Berry Smoothie Bowl
- Mango Pineapple Tropical Smoothie Bowl
Tried this recipe?
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Crispy Smashed Potatoes
These crispy smashed potatoes are the perfect side dish to compliment any meal. Seasoned lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, smashed baby potatoes have it all. They're easy to make, crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside, and flavorful without being overpowering. You can serve these crispy smashed potatoes with almost anything - I love it with grilled chicken and roasted vegetables, but your options are endless! And you can even use your instant pot to cook these potatoes before smashing them and popping into the oven.
Why You'll Love Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Crisp on the outside. The secret to making these crispy smashed potatoes is boiling them before baking. This is what allows them to be smashed to perfection and crisp up evenly on the outside. The added layer of olive oil and spices is also essential for their signature golden-brown crust and delicious flavor.
- Tender on the inside. These twice-cooked potatoes deliver an ultra creamy center, with perfectly cooked potato. Under the crispy exterior, these smashed potatoes are soft, smooth, fluffy, and tender.
- Simple and versatile. Crispy smashed potatoes is an incredibly easy recipe. It is made with just a few ingredients, yet despite this, they're not boring at all. Instead, they're are flavorful and delicious, and are extremely versatile. Serve them at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And you can pair them with anything! Chicken, beef, salmon, turkey, pork - you name it.
Ingredient Notes
To make easy Crispy Smashed Potatoes, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- baby potatoes - baby potatoes work best for smashed potatoes because they have the best skin to potato ratio and the perfect surface area for getting the crispy edges.
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
- garlic powder
Smashed potatoes are completely customizable. You can witch up the seasoning with your favorite spices or seasoning blend. Try cajun spice, Italian seasoning, or chili powder. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for serving, or bake it with grated cheddar for a cheesy version.
How to Make the Best Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Cook the potatoes.
- To cook on the stove: Place potatoes in a large pot of salted water. The potatoes should be covered in water by about one inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, then turn the heat down to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- To cook in the instant pot: Add potatoes in the instant pot and cover with water (about 3-4 cups). Add salt and stir well to dissolve. Seal the lid and set the steam release knob to the sealed position. Cook the potatoes on Manual pressure for 8 minutes until tender. Once the time is up, quick release pressure or wait until all of the steam has released and the valve has dropped.
- Smash the potatoes. Drain completely and place the hot potatoes evenly spaced apart on a large baking sheet. Gently flatten the potatoes into approximately ½-inch thick discs with a potato masher or fork.
- Season. Brush or spray oil on each smashed potatoes and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Bake. Bake in a 400F preheated oven until golden brown and crispy, about 25-30 minutes. You can also broil on high for another 5 minutes to get the potatoes extra crispy. Serve immediately with chopped parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
What to Serve with Smashed Potatoes
Crispy smashed potatoes are an incredibly versatile side dish that pairs with almost any main course entree. Some of my current favorites to serve with this are:
- Roasted Pork Tenderloin
- Instant Pot Whole Chicken
- Creamy Garlic Salmon
- Ribeye Steak
- Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
- Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to store: Crispy smashed potatoes can lose their crispiness easily if you don't store them correctly. After baking, lay potatoes on a paper towel-lined plate and allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Allowing them to cool first ensures there is no condensation, and your potatoes remain crispy!
- How to reheat: Reheat cold smashed potatoes in a preheated 400F oven for 10-20 minutes. You can also reheat them in the air fryer at 400F for 5-8 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
- Tips for smashing potatoes: If you're having a hard time smashing the baby potatoes with a fork or potato masher, you can also try using the bottom of a glass cup. To prevent sticking, add a little bit of oil to the cup.
More Potato Recipes
- 40 Best Potato Recipes
- Roasted Garlic Parmesan Baby Potatoes
- Mashed Red Potatoes
- Greek Lemon Roasted Baby Potatoes
- Hasselback Potatoes
- Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Instant Pot Osso Buco
Instant pot osso buco is a delicious, classic, and hearty Italian braised veal shank recipe. Tender and juicy veal shanks are stewed with sautéed vegetables in a thick, savory red wine and tomato sauce with flavorful aromatics like onions, garlic, and thyme. Plus, cooking dinner in the instant pot makes everything that much easier and faster. Serve it over rice, potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal on busy weeknights, date night, or dinner parties.
Why You'll Love Instant Pot Osso Buco
- The instant pot makes everything easier. Osso buco is an amazing, stewed veal recipe that comes from Lombardy, Italy. And when you add an instant pot to the mix, it makes osso buco easier than ever to make.
- Stewed veal is so delicious. I highly recommend using veal for this recipe - you won't regret it. Veal is more tender than beef. And while it does have a slightly less intense natural flavor, it is juicier and more delectable by far.
- Osso buco is packed with flavor. If the texture and flavor of a finely cooked veal shank haven't convinced you, everything else about osso buco will. The red wine-tomato sauce is incredibly flavorful and pairs perfectly with the veal.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this delicious Instant Pot Osso Buco, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in recipe card below):
- veal shanks - authentic osso buco is traditionally made with veal shanks which is more tender. You can also substitute it for beef shanks.
- salt and pepper
- all-purpose flour
- vegetable oil
- butter
- vegetables - onion, garlic, celery, and carrot.
- thyme
- tomato paste
- red wine - red wine adds a depth of flavor that pairs so well with tomato sauce. You can also substitute with white wine.
- tomato sauce
- broth - either chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons and an instant pot.
How to Make the Best Instant Pot Osso Buco
- Season the shanks. Pat dry the veal or beef shanks completely with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the shanks with flour to coat evenly and shake off any excess. Set aside on a plate.
- Sear. Turn on the Sauté function on high on the Instant Pot. Add oil and heat until the hot oil sizzles, about 1 minute. Sear the shanks for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and transfer onto a plate. Note that the meat doesn't need to be fully cooked at this point.
- Sauté vegetables. Add butter and melt over medium high heat until it starts to bubble, about 1 minute. Add onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and thyme. Sauté until tender, about 2 minutes.
- Add sauce. Stir in tomato paste and mix well, about 1 minute. Pour in wine, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Mix well until evenly combined.
- Pressure cook. Return the shanks to the pot and switch to pressure cooking mode on manual High and seal the lid (the steam release knob must be turned to the sealed position). Let the beef shanks pressure cook until tender, about 30 minutes. Once the time is up, you can let the instant pot slowly release the pressure (about 20 minutes) or quick release the remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position.
- Serve. Season with salt to taste and serve with rice, pasta, or potatoes if desired.
How to Serve Italian Braised Veal Shanks
Italian braised veal shanks are is traditionally topped with gremolata, which is herby condiment made out of parsley, lemon zest, and garlic. They also pair well with something starchy like potatoes, rice, bread, or pasta. Some of my favorite sides to serve with osso buco are:
- Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
- Cacio e Pepe
- Creamy Parmesan No Wine Risotto
- Lemon Kale Salad
- Garlic Breadsticks
Storing and Freezing Instructions
- How to store: Keep leftover instant pot osso buco in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- How to reheat: You can reheat cold osso buco in the microwave for 60-120 seconds on medium heat if you're in a rush. However, for the best quality, place osso buco in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and reheat it in a 375F oven for 10-20 minutes.
- Freezing instructions: You can freeze stewed veal for up to 3 months. Store in a freezer bag or airtight container.
More Instant Pot Recipes
- Instant Pot Cranberry Chicken
- Instant Pot Whole Chicken
- Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
- Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
- Instant Pot Turkey Breast
- Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Roasted Chestnuts (Three Ways)
It's the time of year to break out the chestnuts roasting by an open fire. Well, you might not have a fireplace, but you can enjoy roasted chestnuts at home - in three different ways. Whether you roast them in the oven, cook over the stove, or pop them into the air fryer, you won't even be able to tell that they didn't come from a street vender. With a classic, soft texture and rich, sweet, and earthy flavor, homemade chestnuts are an experience everyone should have at least once in their life!
Why You'll Love Roasted Chestnuts
- Warm and cozy taste and texture. There is something about enjoying roasted chestnuts on a cold winter day. They just warm you right up. Kind of like a baked sweet potato, they have a slightly spongy texture with an incredibly sweet and nutty flavor.
- Chestnuts are healthy and nutritious. Chestnuts are packed with essential antioxidants that support heart health, even after roasting! So, this delicious, sweet snack is one you can feel good about eating over and over again.
- Three ways to cook them. Unlike most other nuts, chestnuts cannot be eaten raw. You could try but you will likely get an upset stomach. With this recipe, you can cook them in 3 different ways - roasted in the oven, cooked over the stove, or roasted in air fryer.
- They're ready in about an hour. Roasted chestnuts technically only take about half an hour too cook, but you need to set aside some time for soaking, a quick boil, and cooling. If you ask me, the experience of eating these roasted chestnuts is well worth that small investment in your time.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make easy roasted chestnuts at home, you only need one ingredient: chestnuts. You also need some water to soak them in first. This allows the inside nut to steam during the cooking process (to prevent them from getting burnt) and loosens the skin between the nut and the shell, making the shells easier to remove when eating.
You will also need a cutting board, sharp knife or scissors, mixing bowl, and a kitchen towel. Depending on the cooking method that you choose, you will also need either a quarter sheet baking pan, thick-bottomed saucepan or medium cooking pot, or an air fryer.
How to Make the Best Roasted Chestnuts
- Score and soak the chestnuts. Place chestnuts on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to make an X-shaped or cross-shaped slit on the top round side of each chestnut. Soak the chestnuts in a mixing bowl of water for at least 20 minutes or longer.
- Boil. Transfer the chestnuts to a large pot of boiling water, and boil for 5 minutes. Drain the chestnuts well.
- Cook. Cook them by roasting in the oven, cooking on the stovetop, or in the air fryer.
- To roast in the oven: Preheat oven to 400F. Place the drained chestnuts in a single layer on a quarter sheet baking pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the shells crack wide open at the scored "X" mark. Chestnuts are done when they smell nutty.
- To cook on the stovetop: Place the drained chestnuts in a single layer on a shallow saucepan or medium cooking pot. Close the lid and cook the chestnuts over medium heat for 10 minutes until the shells start to crack open. The water absorbed in the chestnuts from soaking helps to steam the chestnuts, which allows the nuts to expand and crack the shells open. Once all the shells crack open, remove the lid. Turn the heat down to low and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes (stirring constantly to help cook evenly) and until the chestnuts smell nutty.
- To cook in the air fryer: Add the drained chestnuts into the air fryer basket and cook at 375F for 25-30 minutes until tender and the shells crack open. Shake the basket halfway to cook them evenly.
- Rest. Wrap the cooked chestnuts in a kitchen towel and let them sit for 10 minutes. Peel them warm by hand.
How to Serve Roasted Chestnuts
I love eating roasted chestnuts on their own as a warm snack. But they are equally delicious added to other recipes like salads, soups, and stuffing. For a boost of flavor, try adding it to:
- Fall Harvest Salad
- Honey Roasted Carrots
- Butternut Squash Curry
- Roasted Harvest Vegetables
- Roasted Pork Tenderloin
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to store: Roasted chestnuts are best eaten immediately because they don't store very well. Plus, they are a lot easier to remove from their shells when they are warm. If you absolutely have to store them, allow them to cool, then peel them and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For the best taste and texture, eat them soon.
- How to eat leftover chestnuts: You can eat roasted chestnuts cold, but I think they taste much better warm. Simply heat the leftover chestnuts in a pan with butter over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat in the air fryer at 300F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
More Snack Recipes
- Healthy Snack Recipes
- Candied Pecans
- Homemade Popcorn
- Baked Apple Chips
- Gingerbread Granola
- No Bake Protein Energy Bites
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Gingerbread Pancakes
Soft and fluffy gingerbread pancakes are festive and loaded with holiday spices for the perfect breakfast on a winter morning. The batter comes together in just 5 minutes, making it the easiest meal to whip up for a stress-free Christmas Day brunch, or on any busy weekday morning when you are craving some holiday flavors. Plus, leftovers store and reheat really well (and are freezer-friendly too!). It's no surprise that these Christmas pancakes are a staple in our home every year.
Why You'll Love Gingerbread Pancakes
- The best way to finish up any molasses. Did you spend the last few weeks baking up a storm of Gingerbread Cookies, Gingerbread Biscotti, or a Gingerbread House? Well if you are looking for ways to finish up that bottle of molasses before it expires, these pancakes are it! You just need a few tablespoons which adds delicious festive flavor to these pancakes. applesauce! They add in a hint of fall flavor and are a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients.
- Soft, thick, and fluffy. These gingerbread pancakes are serious pancake goals. They have what every pancake aspires to be - soft, thick, and fluffy. They are light, yet filling enough to give you enough energy to last until lunch time.
- Perfect for Christmas morning. If gingerbread pancakes aren't the epitome of Christmas morning breakfasts, then I don't know what is. You can dress these pancakes up with whipped cream and red and green sprinkles to make it extra festive and special on Christmas Day.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth. Although these gingerbread pancakes aren't excessively sweet on their own, they do get some sweetness from the molasses, and you can add maple syrup or honey to make them even sweeter. You can satisfy your sugar cravings with a delicious breakfast that will keep you going.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make soft and fluffy gingerbread pancakes, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in recipe card below):
- all-purpose flour
- baking powder
- gingerbread spices - including ground ginger, cinnamon, and allspice. Feel free to substitute the allspice with ground cloves and nutmeg instead.
- sugar - this is optional. If you will be adding maple syrup to the pancakes, extra sugar isn't necessary. But if you prefer sweeter pancakes, add some in.
- salt
- molasses - use unsulphured molasseses. The other kind is too bitter in these pancakes. For a darker pancake, add another tablespoon of molasses to the batter.
- milk
- egg
- butter - you can also replace the butter for olive oil.
- vanilla extract
- vegetable oil or cooking spray - for cooking the pancakes.
- pancake toppings - top gingerbread pancakes with butter and maple syrup, or make things really festive with whipped cream and Christmas colored sprinkles.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, and a griddle or frying pan.
How to Make the Best Gingerbread Pancakes
- Combine ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, allspice and salt. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together molasses, milk, egg, butter, and vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined (the batter will be slightly lumpy). Do not over mix.
- Cook the pancakes. Spray a large frying pan or griddle with cooking spray, or dampen a paper towel with vegetable oil and rub on top of the pan. Heat the pan over medium-low heat and add pancake batter using a ¼ measuring cup. Pour as many that will fit in your pan or griddle (I fit 3 in my 10-inch skillet).
- Flip them over. Cook for 1-2 minutes until small bubbles begin to form on the surface, the edges have set, and the bottom of the pancake starts browning. Flip the pancake over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the other side has also browned.
- Repeat and serve. Remove the pancakes from the pan and set aside on a plate. Repeat in a few batches until until all the batter is used up. Stack the pancakes and top with maple syrup, butter, and/or whipped cream with sprinkles.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to achieve the perfect consistency: For a thinner pancake, add up to ¼ cup more milk at the end until you reach your desired consistency.
- How to store: Store leftover gingerbread pancakes in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- How to freeze pancakes: Cook the pancakes and then allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Then, layer them in between pieces of parchment paper and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Allow them to thaw completely to room temperature (overnight in the refrigerator or a few hours at room temperature) before reheating.
- How to reheat: You can reheat leftover pancakes on the stovetop over medium-low heat, in the air fryer at 300F for 5 minutes until warmed through, or in the microwave in 20 second increments until warmed through.
More Holiday Breakfast Recipes
- 50 Best Christmas Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
- Baked Gingerbread French Toast Casserole
- Gingerbread Muffins with Vanilla Bean Glaze
- Star Bread
- Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
- Eggs and Potato Breakfast Casserole
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
60+ Healthy Dinner Ideas
Looking for a healthy dinner that you can make tonight? I typically find myself gravitating towards healthy dinners and light meals after the holidays, especially after spending months indulging in the best comfort foods ever. Plus, easy healthy dinner recipes are just as delicious, flavorful, and satisfying (if not more!). So if you are wondering "what to make for dinner that's healthy", then you have come to the right place. We are sharing over 60 of the best healthy dinner ideas including healthy low carb dinner ideas, healthy chicken dinners, healthy seafood recipes, healthy one pot or sheet pan dinners, healthy Chinese stir fries, and filling protein-packed salads for dinner.
Our Best Healthy Dinner Ideas
Better than takeout, healthy lemon chicken is a delicious, sticky chicken stir fry coated in a flavourful, sweet and tangy sauce. The best weeknight dinner when you are looking for healthy dinner ideas.
Delicious, moist and juicy Mediterranean chicken patties have everything you want in one bite: protein, veggies, herbs, and they're quick and easy to make. Serve it on it's own, with hamburger buns, or a side of Basmati rice.
Easy to make, light and fresh teriyaki grilled salmon rice bowl is topped with vegetables, seaweed and salmon roe, with homemade teriyaki sauce on top. One of my favorite healthy dinner ideas.
Fresh, homegrown bell peppers baked with an assortment of veggies and brown rice is what these easy vegan stuffed bell peppers are all about!! Ready in under an hour, serve this at your next fancy dinner party or make it for an easy weeknight dinner!
Quick and easy pesto penne pasta is a simple and light Italian pasta dish made with just five ingredients in under 15 minutes. The easiest healthy dinner.
Easy 20-Minute One Pot Lentils are a healthy, nourishing, and delicious vegan meal that is easy to make in a few simple steps. Make a big batch and freeze!
Homemade chicken noodle soup is classic, comforting, simple, quick, and easy to make at home. Plus, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. It doesn't get more nourishing that chicken noodle soup.
Korean beef steak rice bowl is loaded with tender and juicy strips of beef, marinated vegetable sides (banchan), and kimchi. Make it in under 30 minutes!
Healthy Low Carb Dinner Ideas
Southern Black Eyed Peas (Hoppin' John) is classic comfort food that is hearty, delicious, flavorful, and comforting. Serve it on New Year's for good luck.
Quick, easy, and simple, vegan tofu and mushroom stir fry is a delicious meal that is ready in under 15 minutes. Serve it over a bowl of steamed rice. One of the easiest healthy dinner recipes.
Ground beef stuffed peppers are delicious, healthy, and filling. Stuffed with beef rice and veggies, they're easy to make ahead and freezer-friendly.
Homemade falafel are delicious, golden brown and crispy on the outside, fluffy tender and soft inside. Plus, they're vegan, loaded with plant-based protein. A filling healthy dinner recipe.
Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
Shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles is filling, yet surprisingly light! Since we are using fresh zucchini noodles, you will feel no guilt in sopping up the sauce with an extra crusty piece of bread!
Sweet chili turkey meatballs are delicious, tender and juicy, loaded with classic Thai flavors, and quick and easy to make. Savory, sweet, and tangy. Air fryer instructions in recipe tips.
Curried Chickpea Stuffed Acorn Squash
Wholesome, hearty, curried chickpea stuffed acorn squash with curry flavours is the perfect vegan and gluten-free fall comfort food dinner to enjoy this winter.
Szechuan Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Spicy Mayo
Spice it up and make copycat Szechuan chicken lettuce wraps with spicy mayo from the comfort of your own home with this easy to follow recipe. Plus, it is healthier than the original.
Healthy Chicken Dinners
Baked Chicken Breast with Greek Souvlaki Marinade
Juicy, tender, and moist, baked chicken breast with the best Greek souvlaki marinade is the most flavorful and delicious chicken dinner in under 30 minutes.
Air fryer chicken breast is crispy on the outside, juicy and tender inside, and packed with flavor in every bite. Quick and easy dinner on busy weeknights.
Dutch Oven Whole Roast Chicken
Easy Dutch oven whole roast chicken with the crispiest golden skin is juicy, tender and succulent and packed with flavour. Just takes 15 minutes to prep. Serve with creamy potatoes au gratin on the side.
Aromatic Asian pan-fried lemongrass chicken is healthy, gluten-free, and takes less than 25 minutes to prep and cook. Now that's what I call the perfect weeknight meal. Use any leftovers in a Lemongrass Chicken Banh Mi Sandwich.
Skillet chicken fajitas are a light, fresh, and sizzling dish bursting with flavour, packed with colorful vegetables, and wrapped in warm tortillas or with a side of Cilantro Lime Rice.
Roasted Spatchcock Chicken (Butterflied Chicken)
Quick and easy roasted spatchcock chicken (butterflied chicken) seasoned with garlic and thyme is juicy, tender, delicious and flavourful with minimal prep. Serve with some creamy mashed potatoes and garlic green beans.
Skillet Chicken Thighs and Potatoes
Tender, juicy, and crispy one pan skillet chicken thighs and potatoes and carrots is an easy weeknight dinner on your dinner table in less than 45 minutes. Serve with a warm brussels sprouts salad on the side.
Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Chicken
Vietnamese noodle bowl with lemongrass chicken, fresh vegetables and herbs, tossed in a homemade Vietnamese sauce is healthy, delicious, light, and filling.
Healthy Seafood Recipes
Greek salmon is delicious, flaky, and tender. This healthy oven-baked salmon is packed with Mediterranean flavors and is ready in just 20 minutes.
Garlic shrimp skewers are delicious and full of fresh flavor. These quick and easy kabobs can be grilled, baked or air fried for an easy summer dinner.
Baked miso salmon brings traditional Japanese flavours to the forefront, with a healthy and delicious meal that's easy to make on busy weeknights.
Yellow curry mussels are the epitome of delicious seafood - creamy, spicy, and savory. This flavourful one pot dish is quick + easy to make in 25 minutes.
Tigers Prawns in Garlic Ginger Soy Sauce
10-minute tiger prawns in garlic ginger soy sauce is juicy, tender and immersed in incredible Asian flavours. It's the perfect weeknight meal.
Tender, flaky, flavorful garlic butter salmon is well-seasoned, seared to perfection, and basted until juicy. Quick and easy to make in 20 minutes.
Crispy baked coconut shrimp is a delicious appetizer that is easy to make in 30 minutes. They are more flavourful, tastier and healthier than takeout.
Garlicky, buttery, and perfectly seared scallops take less than 10 minutes to prep and cook. It's the easiest fancy, restaurant-grade meal to make at home.
Easy, garlicky and buttery grilled shrimp boil with prawns, corn, baby potatoes and sausage, seasoned and tossed with parsley takes just 20 minutes to cook. Throw some whole potatoes on the grill too and serve this with some BBQ chicken stuffed baked potatoes.
Healthy One Pot or Sheet Pan Dinners
One Pan Garlic Roasted Chicken and Baby Potatoes
One pan garlic roasted chicken and baby potatoes is an easy to make, delicious, and wholesome meal for the entire family. Prep this sheet pan in 10 minutes.
Minestrone soup is a hearty, healthy, nourishing, and delicious classic Italian soup, packed with vegetables and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth.
Sizzling and hot sheet pan chicken fajitas are on the table in less than 30 minutes. The best part is that you just throw everything into one sheet pan. Make it a total fiesta with some pico de gallo and fish tacos.
One Pot Spanish Chicken and Rice
Packed with flavour, real ingredients and vibrant colours, one pot Spanish chicken and rice is the perfect no fuss, no clean up weeknight meal.
Sheet pan lamb chops with vegetables are healthy and delicious, easy to make, and easier to clean up. Perfect for busy weeknights or a holiday dinner.
Vegetarian Mushroom Barley Soup
Wholesome hearty vegetarian mushroom barley soup is healthy, filling, and so delicious. This one pot meal is easy to make with just 10 minutes of prep.
Sheet Pan Miso Salmon with Bok Choy
Sheet pan miso salmon with bok choy and sweet potatoes equals unbelievable bursts of umami flavour in every single bite. Plus it's on the table in 30 minutes AND is super easy to clean up!
Thai Turkey Meatballs in Coconut Curry
Thai turkey meatballs in coconut curry are the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something delicious, healthy, flavorful, and satisfying.
Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus
Spring pesto pasta with asparagus and chives is light and made with simple ingredients in under 20 minutes. Serve it hot for dinner or cold as pasta salad.
Indian-inspired, vegan, creamy coconut curry lentil soup is an easy and simple 30-minute pantry meal that is packed with spices for maximum flavour. Serve it as a soup or as a curry over some coconut rice.
Healthy Chinese Stir Fries
Baked General Tso's Chicken is a saucy, savoury, sweet, spicy Chinese-American takeout favourite made healthier with baked chicken, not fried.
Beef and broccoli stir fry is a classic Chinese-American dish that is delicious, savory, hearty, and saucy. Better than takeout and ready in 25 minutes.
Air Fryer Vegetable "Stir Fry"
Simple air fryer vegetable "stir-fry" with tofu is the ultimate easy dinner ready in less than 10 minutes. It's healthy, vegan and gluten-free.
Quick and easy, one-pan, 10-minute seafood fried rice with tiger prawns is so much healthier, tastier and better than takeout. It's the easiest weeknight meal.
Say goodbye to takeout and make easy Lo Mein Noodles at home, packed with fresh veggies and healthy ingredients, in less than 15 minutes! Or try Vegetarian Chow Mein for an easy healthy dinner recipe.
Kung Pao chicken is a Chinese chicken dish that is stir-fried with crisp vegetables and tossed in a delicious Asian sauce packed with flavour.
Flavourful curry chicken fried rice with chicken, mushrooms, peas, rice, and curry flavours is so easy to make in less than 10 minutes on busy weeknights. Serve with a fresh Chinese garlic cucumber salad on the side.
Better than takeout, baked sesame chicken with vegetables is delicious, flavourful, sticky and saucy. This healthier Chinese dish is quick and easy to make.
Better than takeout, quick easy stir-fried vegetarian chow mein is packed with vegetables and coated in a delicious savoury sauce. Make it in 15 minutes.
Filling Salads for a Healthy Dinner
Chicken Garden Salad with Ranch Dressing
Chicken garden salad with ranch dressing is fresh, healthy, hearty, and colorful. It's a filling and wholesome lunch or dinner that is versatile too. You can't get a healthy lunch idea than a fresh salad.
Grilled shrimp salad is a quick and easy, healthy summer meal that is loaded with fresh, flavorful ingredients, all tossed in an easy homemade dressing.
Asian chopped salad is a delicious and colorful salad, loaded with refreshing crisp vegetables, plant-based protein, and a homemade creamy sesame dressing.
Chickpea Greek salad is a fresh, healthy, vibrant, and colorful salad, packed with traditional Mediterranean ingredients, superfoods, and nutrients.
Take a bite into this refreshing, gluten-free quinoa and spinach salad bursting with colourful tomatoes, cucumbers and raisins.
Shrimp taco salad with cilantro lime dressing is flavourful, delicious, and easy to make. It has all the fixings and of shrimp tacos, but without the mess.
Greek chicken salad is fresh, healthy, and delicious, packed with classic Mediterranean flavors. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, or for meal prep.
Easy Healthy Dinner Tips
- Make ahead and freezer-friendly. You can make some of these easy healthy dinners ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for a few days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Prep in advance. You can also make things easier by prepping ingredients in advance and storing in the fridge until ready to use. Check the individual recipes for full make ahead and storing instructions.
- How to reheat. Most of the leftovers can be reheated either in a preheated oven or air fryer at 300F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, on the stovetop over medium to low heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through, or in the microwave in 20-second increments until warmed through. If heating from frozen, let it thaw first and then reheat. Refer to each recipe for full reheating instructions
More Popular Dinner Ideas
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Did You Make Any of These Healthy Dinner Recipes?
Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of the best healthy dinner ideas we have to offer. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.
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Gingerbread Truffles
Gingerbread truffles are the easiest holiday dessert that you can make with just three simple ingredients. These ginger cookie balls are packed with crushed gingersnaps and cream cheese, then coated with rich white chocolate. With a crunchy chocolate exterior, and a creamy, soft center, it's no wonder everyone loves them. Plus, it's a no bake dessert that is really easy to make ahead, stores well, and is freezer-friendly too.
Why You'll Love Gingerbread Truffles
- So easy to make with just 3 ingredients. These gingerbread cookie balls might just be the easiest holiday treat to make. The cookie mixture takes literally one minute to whip up with just 3 ingredients before you are ready to roll them into balls. It's a no bake recipe that just needs time to chill.
- The best way to use leftover cookies. I always make extra gingersnaps this time of year for this very reason. You can turn them into white chocolate gingerbread truffles or use them for a cheesecake crust. Their harder texture is perfect for crushing into truffles, but any ginger cookie can work. Try this with are Gingerbread Cookies, Soft and Chewy Ginger Cookies, and even a leftover Gingerbread House.
- Perfect holiday treat to gift to family and friends. When it comes to holiday baking, its all about gingerbread and holiday spices. No bake gingerbread truffles are a great make ahead treat that stores really well for weeks in the fridge and months in the freezer. Which makes them a great Christmas Dessert to include in a Holiday Cookie Box.
Ingredient Notes
To make these easy no bake gingerbread truffles, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- gingersnaps - I used my leftover gingersnap cookies to make these truffles. You can also use leftover Ginger Molasses Cookies, Gingerbread Cookies, Gingerbread House (remove any candies or icing first), or golden Oreos to make Gingerbread Oreo Truffles instead.
- cream cheese - you will need to use softened cream cheese. I suggest setting out your block of cream cheese for at least 30 minutes before starting.
- white chocolate - I used pure white chocolate to coat the gingerbread truffles. You can also use white candy melts which are easier to work with. These truffles are also topped with a sprinkle of extra crushed gingersnaps. You could also top with sprinkles instead.
You will also need a food processor, small cookie scoop or tablespoon measuring spoon, and half sheet baking pan.
How to Make the Best Gingerbread Truffles
- Make the cookie mixture. Add gingersnap cookies to a food processor and mix on low until crumbled. You can also transfer cookies to a large ziploc bag, seal the bag, and roll a rolling pin on top to crush into crumbs. Add cream cheese and pulse mix until combined.
- Roll into balls. Use a small cookie scoop to take a tablespoon of the mixture and use your hands to roll into balls. Place on a large half sheet baking pan lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Chill. Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate. Melt the white chocolate in a small bowl. You can melt it by placing the bowl on a steamer basket, over a small pot of boiling water, or melt in the microwave in 30 second increments, stirring between each increment until melted and smooth.
- Coat truffles in chocolate. Dip each chilled ball into the melted white chocolate to fully coat and scoop it out with a fork allowing any excess chocolate to drip back in the bowl. Place back on the lined baking sheet. Immediately sprinkle some crushed gingersnaps on top.
- Set. Place the coated gingerbread truffle balls back into the fridge to allow the chocolate to set, about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to store: Store gingerbread truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- How to freeze: Once the chocolate has set, freeze gingersnap truffles in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow the gingersnap truffles to thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for an hour or so at room temperature before serving.
- Got more gingersnaps? If you have extra gingersnaps that you can't finish, use them as cheesecake crust. You can use it any recipe that calls for graham crackers and crush up gingersnaps instead. See our Cranberry Sauce Swirl Cheesecake.
More Cookie Recipes
- 50 Best Cookie Recipes
- Dark Chocolate Raspberry Truffles
- No Bake Protein Energy Balls
- Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Snickerdoodles
- Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
50 Best Christmas Leftovers Recipes
Having a ton of leftovers after an epic Christmas dinner that you spent days and weeks planning for, might just be the best part. In fact, we always make extras just so that we have Christmas leftovers to get us through the next few days. But that doesn't mean that you have to eat the exact same holiday dinner ever night. If you are wondering "what to do with Christmas leftovers", you are in the right place. We are here to help you transform those holiday leftovers into something new and delicious with over 50 of our popular and best Christmas leftovers recipes for everything from leftover ham, leftover roast beef, leftover turkey, leftover roast chicken, and leftover sides like cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and mac and cheese.
Leftover Christmas Ham Recipes
Creamy ham and potato soup is hearty, filling, and so flavourful. This warm and cozy one pot meal is the easiest weeknight meal to make in just 25 minutes. One of my favorite Christmas leftovers recipe for lunch the next day.
Easy creamy ham and potatoes au gratin is a great way to use leftover ham with tender sliced potatoes and a cheesy béchamel sauce. The best comfort food using Christmas leftovers.
Chop up leftover ham and add it to antipasto skewers. These are a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer with the best parts of a traditional antipasto platter but easier to eat. Perfect to serve on New Year's Eve!
Classic split pea soup is a wholesome, filling, and delicious one pot meal that will warm you up. It's hearty, flavorful, and is loaded with nutrients.
Creamy Chinese-Style Borscht Soup
Creamy and hearty Chinese-style borscht soup is loaded with carrots, potatoes, cabbage, and ham AND is both gluten-free and dairy-free. Serve it with some green onion dinner rolls or salted soft pretzels.
Leftover Roast Beef Recipes
Creamy beef wild rice soup is savory, flavorful, and delicious, packed with vegetables and beef flank steak (or leftover roast beef!), and freezes well.
This beef noodle stir fry is the 20-minute dinner that you have been looking for - quick and easy, delicious and flavorful, and so much better than takeout.
Shredded Beef Enchiladas are flavorful, saucy, and cheesy. They are easy to make for family dinner using just a few ingredients including leftover beef.
Beef stroganoff is a delicious, flavorful, and comforting Russian pasta dish that is ready in under 25 minutes. The perfect weeknight dinner.
This easy Pot Roast Soup is made in 30 minutes with leftover beef and veggies simmered in broth. It's hearty, flavorful, and nourishing comfort food.
Leftover Christmas Turkey Recipes
Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach
Creamy leftover turkey tetrazzini with spinach is a simple, easy and delicious pasta recipe that is comforting, creamy and cheesy. It's a family favourite way to use Christmas leftovers.
Creamy turkey gnocchi soup is the ultimate comfort food - creamy, rich, and delicious, made with good carbs, clean protein, and veggies in 25 minutes.
Leftover turkey fried rice with turkey, fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, vegetables, and classic Asian seasonings is a one skillet meal made in just 10 minutes.
Leftover Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
Leftover turkey stuffed peppers are a nutritious, wholesome and healthy dinner that you can throw together easily and quickly. A total crowd-pleaser and delicious Thanksgiving leftover recipe.
Coconut turkey curry is creamy, rich, and flavorful. This delicious curry is the perfect recipe to make when you have turkey leftovers, ready in 30 minutes!
Warm and cozy, creamy turkey orzo soup is wholesome, hearty, filling, and flavourful. Make this delicious one pot meal with leftover turkey in 30 minutes. One of my favorite ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers.
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich with Cranberry Sauce
Looking for comfort food in a hand-held serving? You got it! Put those leftovers to good use in this leftover Thanksgiving turkey sandwich with cranberry sauce.
Wholesome hearty one pot leftover turkey wild rice soup is the most comforting way to use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving turkey dinner. So easy to make.
Quick easy buffalo turkey wraps with homemade buffalo sauce are flavorful, spicy, and delicious. A healthy lunch that will keep you full until dinner.
Leftover turkey potato chowder is a creamy, savory, and delicious soup that is loaded with holiday leftovers. Quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes.
Leftover Roast Chicken Recipes (that also work with Leftover Turkey)
White chicken chili is an easy and delicious one pot meal made with shredded chicken, hearty veggies, and a creamy broth that's loaded with flavor.
Homemade chicken pot pie is loaded with a delicious, creamy, savory filling contained by a crispy, buttery, and flaky pie crust. It stores and freezes well.
Easy baked chicken enchiladas brings the taste of authentic Mexican food into your kitchen -- saucy, spicy, and savoury. Perfect for a Mexican fiesta on Cinco de Mayo.
Greek chicken salad is fresh, healthy, and delicious, packed with classic Mediterranean flavors. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, or for meal prep.
ForgForget delivery and make sweet, tangy, and smoky BBQ chicken pizza from the comfort of your own home in under 30 minutes. The easiest weeknight dinner.
Smooth, hearty and light, one pot lemon chicken orzo soup is pure comfort in a bowl. This family favourite is like chicken noodle soup with a major upgrade. Serve it with some crispy sourdough discard crackers with sesame seeds.
Creamy White Chicken and Spinach Lasagna
Creamy white chicken and spinach lasagna with tender shredded chicken is the most comforting creamiest cheesiest white lasagna. Easy to make ahead & freeze.
Flavourful curry chicken fried rice with chicken, mushrooms, peas, rice, and curry flavours is so easy to make in less than 10 minutes on busy weeknights. Serve with a fresh Chinese garlic cucumber salad on the side.
No more takeout when you can make flavourful, restaurant-style, authentic chicken Pad Thai at home in just 10 minutes. It's sweet, savoury, sour and nutty.
Hearty chicken tortilla soup is a delicious, wholesome and filling soup that you can make in about 30 minutes, packed with classic Mexican flavours.
Butternut Squash Quesadillas with Chicken and Kale
Quick and easy butternut squash quesadillas with chicken and kale is the best fall weeknight meal. It's flavourful, so cheesy, and has the perfect crunch.
Chicken Garden Salad with Ranch Dressing
Chicken garden salad with ranch dressing is fresh, healthy, hearty, and colorful. It's a filling and wholesome lunch or dinner that is versatile too.
Chicken and rice soup is delicious, warm, cozy, and comforting feel-good meal that can warm you up on a chilly day. Easy to make in one pot.
Vietnamese summer rolls with chicken are fresh, light, and healthy. This Asian summer snack takes less than 20 minutes to make and easier than you think.
Chicken and Couscous with Sun-dried Tomatoes
Simple, healthy and flavourful chicken and couscous with sun-dried tomatoes is ready in under 30 minutes. The easiest weeknight dinner to make tonight!
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Try this gorgeous combination of BBQ chicken, scallions, cilantro and gruyere for an explosion of flavour in loaded BBQ chicken stuffed baked potatoes.
Leftover Cranberry Sauce Recipes
Cranberry Sauce Swirl Pound Cake
Leftover cranberry sauce swirl pound cake is moist and tender with swirls of cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy burst of flavour. So easy and delicious.
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce Chicken
Instant pot cranberry chicken is sweet, tart, savory, and delicious. Make this chicken dinner in the pressure cooker in just 30 minutes. So quick and easy!
Leftover Cranberry Sauce Muffins with Oat Streusel Topping
Don't throw away leftover cranberry sauce, instead create leftover cranberry sauce muffins with an oat streusel topping and enjoy for breakfast or dessert!
Cranberry Brie Bites are quick and easy to make with flaky puff pastry, gooey melty brie, and sweet cranberry sauce. The perfect holiday appetizer.
Cranberry Hand Pies are buttery, flaky, and filled with leftover cranberry sauce. An easy, festive holiday dessert perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Leftover cranberry sauce smoothie is the perfect drink to make with holiday leftovers. Plus, this sweet and refreshing winter smoothie in ready in minutes.
Cranberry baked brie is a sweet and savory appetizer you need to try this holiday season. It's quick and easy, melty and gooey, and so delicious.
These cranberry sauce oat bars are basically date squares made with cranberry sauce. Pretty genius right? These oat bars layers together a soft, chewy and buttery crust, tart yet sweet cranberry sauce, and crumbly pecan and oat topping. The best use of Thanksgiving leftovers!
Cranberry Sauce Swirl Cheesecake
Cranberry sauce swirl cheesecake is creamy, smooth, and indulgent. With a gorgeous red swirl on top, it's the perfect holiday dessert for your next party.
Use this recipe and instead of using fruit, use leftover cranberry sauce! Layer cranberry sauce, creamy yogurt and crunchy granola to make this fruit and yogurt parfait for a delicious and healthy breakfast or a simple snack.
Leftover Mashed Potatoes Recipes
Mashed potato balls are a delicious appetizer that is crisp on the outside and soft, tender, and cheesy inside. Best way to use leftover mashed potatoes!
Skillet shepherd's pie is a savoury and hearty traditional comfort food. With flavourful beef and fluffy potatoes, this cozy meal it will warm you up.
Mashed potato soup is one of the best ways to use up leftover mashed potatoes. It's creamy, cheesy, delicious, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Mashed potato cakes are light and fluffy inside, crispy golden outside, and so delicious and flavorful. The best way to use up leftover mashed potatoes!
Potato Dinner Rolls are soft, light, and fluffy. These quick and easy dinner rolls are loaded with leftover mashed potatoes and simple pantry staples.
Leftover Mashed Potato Gnocchi
Give your holiday leftovers new life by turning them into easy and delicious homemade Leftover Mashed Potato Gnocchi!
Baked Mashed Potato Spring Rolls
Baked mashed potato spring rolls combines the comforting flavours and textures of creamy mashed potatoes with a crisp crunchy layer of spring roll heaven.
Homemade Potato and Cheese Perogies
Homemade Potato and Cheese Perogies are comforting, delicious, and satisfying. These cheddar pierogi from scratch as easier to make than you think!
Leftover Brussels Sprouts Recipes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Pasta
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Pasta is creamy, cozy, and full of caramelized sprouts tossed in a garlic Parmesan sauce. A delicious and easy weeknight dinner.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad
Roasted brussels sprouts salad with creamy potatoes, crispy string beans, tender brussels sprouts, is tossed in a delicious homemade dijon vinaigrette.
Leftover Mac and Cheese Recipes
Fried mac and cheese balls are crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and have the perfect crunch. Best way to use leftover mac and cheese.
Christmas Mains to Make for Leftovers
- Ham - Holiday Glazed Bake Ham or Pineapple Glazed Ham Slices.
- Pork - Roasted Pork Tenderloin, Honey Glazed Roast Pork, Glazed Honey Balsamic Pork Chops.
- Beef - Roast Beef
- Turkey - Juiciest Whole Roast Turkey, Roasted Turkey Breast, Instant Pot Turkey Breast, Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, Instant Pot Turkey Roast, Asian Five-Spice Roast Turkey, Roasted Turkey Legs, or Soy Glazed Braised Turkey Breast with Five-Spice.
- Chicken - Dutch Oven Roast Chicken, Instant Pot Whole Chicken, Greek Lemon Garlic Whole Roast Chicken, Roasted Spatchcock Chicken, Pesto Whole Chicken, or Harissa Spatchcock Chicken.
- Cranberry sauce -Â Make Ahead Cranberry Sauce
- Mashed potatoes - Creamiest Mashed Potatoes, Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Sour Cream, Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes, Mashed Sweet Potatoes, or Healthy Mashed Potatoes.
- Mac and cheese - Baked Mac and Cheese, Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese, Brie Mac and Cheese, or Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese.
More Popular Recipes
- 50 Best Breakfast Ideas
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- 25 Warm and Cozy Fall Soup Recipes
- 60 Best Chicken Recipes
- 25 Best Ground Beef Recipes
- 40 Best New Year's Eve Dinner Ideas
Did You Make Any of These Christmas Leftovers?
Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of these Christmas leftover recipes. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.
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Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites
Bacon wrapped chicken bites are one of the best appys ever. Tender and juicy chicken is well seasoned and wrapped in delicious bacon that is oven-baked to crisp perfection. These bacon chicken nuggets are simple to make with just a few ingredients but are loaded with flavor - they're savory, salty, and so tasty. You'll love these bacon-wrapped chicken bites, whether they're served at breakfast, lunch, or dinner - and yes, I said breakfast!
Why You'll Love Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites
- More bacon, please! Bacon wrapped chicken is a crave-worthy recipe, and these little chicken bites give you more bacon in every bite. With crispy oven-baked bacon wrapped around each nugget of chicken, they are the perfect appetizer for any occasion, especially on game day.
- Quick and easy. These bacon wrapped chicken bites are ready in less than 40 minutes, and you only need about 10 minutes to actually prepare them. We love quick and easy recipes around here. It's kind of our thing.
- Fun to eat. Anything in bite form is an enjoyable meal and takes less effort to eat. These chicken bites are easy to serve, fun to eat, and totally kid-friendly. What more is there to ask for?
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make these delicious bacon wrapped chicken bites, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- chicken breasts
- brown sugar
- salt
- paprika
- garlic powder
- cayenne pepper - optional, for a spicy kick.
- bacon strips
- maple syrup - you can also substitute with honey.
- ground black pepper
You will also need measuring spoons, mixing bowl, and a quarter sheet baking pan.
How to Make the Best Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites
- Season the chicken. In a mixing bowl, stir together all seasoning (brown sugar, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne, if using) until evenly combined. Add chicken and toss well to coat. Set aside.
- Assemble. Cut each bacon strip in half crosswise (about 5-inches long) and wrap around each seasoned cubed chicken (There is no need to secure the wrapped chicken bites with toothpicks).
- Bake. Arrange the wrapped chicken bites on a parchment-lined quarter sheet baking sheet and brush them with maple syrup and a sprinkle of black pepper to taste. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bacon is crisp.
How to Cook Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites in the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375 F, about 3 minutes. Place bacon chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 15-18 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature for the chicken reaches 165 F as read on a meat thermometer.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Get crispier bacon: If you love crispy bacon, you can finish the bacon-wrapped chicken bites up in the oven on the broil setting on high for 1-3 minutes. But keep a close eye on them because they can start to burn quickly!
- How to store: Keep leftover bacon wrapped chicken bites in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- How to reheat: Reheat cold chicken bites in a 400F preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or in the air fryer for 5-10 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave if you're in a rush. Place in a bowl and cover with microwave-safe plastic wrap. Microwave on medium heat for 1-3 minutes until you see the steam rise and fog up the plastic wrap.
- How to freeze: These chicken bites also freeze well. You can freeze them either assembled and uncooked OR cooked. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until hard, about 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container and freezer for up to 3 months. Bake them from frozen in a 400 F preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or for 20-30 minutes if cooked.
More Chicken Recipes
- Sweet Chili Chicken Bites
- Homemade Chicken Nuggets
- Baked Sesame Chicken
- Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Thai Basil Chicken
- Chicken Shawarma
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
45 Best Keto Recipes
Looking for keto and low carb recipes that are delicious, flavorful, and fall in line with the keto diet? It can be a challenge trying to find recipes that work, but I am here to make it easier for you to keep up with this trend with over 45 of our most popular and best keto recipes including many quick and easy options for busy weeknights, from meat to fish, soup to salad, and more. So whether you are craving creamy stovetop chicken (or shrimp), low carb air fryer dinners, flaky salmon, sheet pan dinners, or stuffed peppers, you will find a low carb keto dinner idea for you here.
What is the Keto Diet?
The Keto Diet (also known as Ketogenic Diet) has been around since the 19th century and was first introduced to help treat diabetes. It is an eating plan where you eat meals that are high in fat and protein, and low in carbohydrates. This diet helps the body achieve ketosis is a a state where the your body starts using fats as the primary source of energy instead of carbs.
Food that are eaten in the keto diet are meat, fish, eggs, most dairy (but not all), nuts and seeds, low carb vegetables, herbs, spices, and healthy oils.
Foods that are avoided in a keto diet are grains, sugary foods, fruits, beans and legumes, root vegetables like potatoes, low fat or sugar-free diet foods, unhealthy fats, and alcohol.
Best Keto Recipes
Juicy, tender, and moist, baked chicken breast with the best classic Greek souvlaki marinade is the most flavorful and delicious chicken dinner in under 30 minutes. Serve it on its own or in a Greek Chicken Salad.
Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails
Fancy, restaurant-quality surf and turf is super easy to make with fresh lobster tail and tender rib-eye steak with a delicious garlic butter sauce. This is one of my go to New Year's Eve dinner ideas when I want to impress.
Greek salmon is delicious, flaky, and tender. This healthy oven-baked salmon is packed with Mediterranean flavors and is ready in just 20 minutes.
Creamy garlic shrimp is a delicious, quick and easy 15-minute meal (including prep!) that you need to include in your weeknight dinner meal plan or for a fancy New Year's Eve dinner.
Leftover Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
Leftover turkey stuffed peppers are a nutritious, wholesome and healthy dinner that you can throw together easily and quickly. A total crowd-pleaser and easy way to use leftover turkey or chicken.
Spinach and Feta Quiche with Cauliflower Crust
Spinach and feta quiche is healthy and gluten-free with a keto cauliflower crust and savoury vegetarian filling. Serve for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Baked caprese chicken is tender, juicy, and delicious, topped with burst tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Homemade tomato basil soup is comforting, rich, and smooth. This cozy soup is easy, flavourful, and nourishing, making it so much better than canned.
Instant pot whole chicken with gravy is tender, juicy, and flavorful. It's the fastest way to cook a whole rotisserie chicken for dinner in just 40 minutes.
Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
Shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles is filling, yet surprisingly light! Since we are using fresh zucchini noodles, you will feel no guilt in sopping up the sauce with an extra crusty piece of bread!
Beef taco salad is a simple, filling, and delicious meal loaded with your favorite taco fillings, and a creamy lime dressing. Make it in 20 minutes. Leave out the corn and tortilla chips to keep it keto.
Chicken Madeira with sautéed mushrooms and tender crisp asparagus is topped with melty mozzarella cheese. Cheaper and better than the Cheesecake Factory!
Baked Zucchini Boats with Marinara and Cheese
Baked zucchini with marinara and melted cheese is so quick and easy to make. It's vegetarian, gluten free, and packed with flavour. It's basically pizza but on a zucchini.
Tender, flaky, flavorful garlic butter salmon is well-seasoned, seared to perfection, and basted until juicy. Quick and easy to make in 20 minutes.
Better than takeout, make easy Indian butter chicken in just 30 minutes, with a creamy tomato-based sauce, charred chicken, and incredible spice + flavour.
Better than the steakhouse, the best tender and juicy ribeye steak with a perfect seared crust is garlicky, buttery and packed with so much flavour. Serve with a side of Brussels Sprouts for a delicious New Year's dinner idea.
Skillet Chicken with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Delicious creamy skillet chicken with lemon garlic sauce is a one-skillet meal that is ready in 30 minutes. It's garlicky, saucy, creamy, and so flavourful. Bread is a must to dip into this delicious sauce. Try pull apart garlic bread or easy no yeast biscuits.
Air fryer Mexican shrimp is juicy, tender, fresh, and delicious. It's packed with classic Mexican flavors and ready in just 10 minutes. So quick and easy.
Creamy Cauliflower and Garlic Soup
A handful of ingredients and a few simple steps makes creamy cauliflower and garlic soup one of the easiest and tastiest soups ever. You don't want the season to pass without trying this one. Serve it with an easy tomato bruschetta on the side.
Air fryer chicken breast is crispy on the outside, juicy and tender inside, and packed with flavor in every bite. Quick and easy dinner on busy weeknights.
Shakshuka is a quick and easy, one-pan Middle Eastern classic with a savory saucy tomato-vegetable base and perfectly poached eggs on top.
Baked miso garlic chicken wings are crispy, delicious, and easy to make. They're marinated in a savoury Asian marinade, and cooked in the oven or air fryer.
Greek chicken salad is fresh, healthy, and delicious, packed with classic Mediterranean flavors. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, or for meal prep.
Garlicky, buttery, and perfectly seared scallops take less than 10 minutes to prep and cook. It's the easiest fancy, restaurant-grade meal to make at home.
Sizzling and hot sheet pan chicken fajitas are on the table in less than 30 minutes. The best part is that you just throw everything into one sheet pan. Make it a total fiesta with some pico de gallo and fish tacos.
Greek Lemon Garlic Whole Roast Chicken
Easy Greek lemon garlic whole roast chicken is tender, juicy and succulent with the crispiest skin. Prep this flavourful one pan meal in just 15 minutes.
Aromatic Asian pan-fried lemongrass chicken is healthy, gluten-free, and takes less than 25 minutes to prep and cook. Now that's what I call the perfect weeknight meal.
Spring vegetable frittata is a delicious breakfast or served at any time of the day. It's a one-pan meal that starts on the stove and moves to the oven.
Flaky, oily, and tender, miso black cod (or sablefish) packed with delicious Asian flavours is an indulgent meal that's as healthy as it is delicious.
Garlic shrimp skewers are delicious and full of fresh flavor. These quick and easy kabobs can be grilled, baked or air fried for an easy summer dinner.
Quick and easy spring vegetable stir fry is made with delicious seasonal vegetables, packed with savoury and salty flavour, and takes 10 minutes to cook. Leave out the carrots to keep this keto and serve it over cauliflower rice.
Thai Coconut Red Curry with Prawns
Better than takeout, Thai coconut red curry with prawns is easy, quick, and full of so much flavour! Cook this perfect weeknight dinner in just 15 minutes!
Roasted Spatchcock Chicken (Butterflied Chicken)
Quick and easy roasted spatchcock chicken (butterflied chicken) seasoned with garlic and thyme is juicy, tender, delicious and flavourful with minimal prep. Serve with some garlic green beans.
Skillet chicken fajitas are a light, fresh, and sizzling dish bursting with flavour, packed with colorful vegetables, and wrapped in warm tortillas or with a side of Cilantro Lime Rice.
You won't believe how easy it is to make fresh, flavourful and delicious almond-crusted halibut with lemon garlic butter this season.
Roasted Butternut Squash and Cauliflower Soup
Creamy roasted butternut squash and cauliflower soup has all the fall feels and is vegan and gluten-free. Plus, it's super easy to make in a sheet pan.
Roasted Balsamic Chicken with Cranberries
If you're scrambling to figure out dinner with less than 30 minutes on hand, this sweet and tangy roasted balsamic chicken with cranberries will save the day. Serve with some creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower.
Quick easy roasted pork tenderloin with sauce is juicy, tender, and flavorful. Ready in 30 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights or a holiday dinner. To keep it keto, skip the extra sauce.
Grilled shrimp salad is a quick and easy, healthy summer meal that is loaded with fresh, flavorful ingredients, all tossed in an easy homemade dressing.
Chinese hot pot at home is a warm, comforting social meal to enjoy with family or a small group of friends for Chinese New Year. It's delicious, easy to prepare, and customizable to make it completely vegetarian by leaving out any meat.
Soft, tender and juicy slow cooker turkey breast with the crispiest skin and fresh fall herbs is the easiest way to cook a turkey this holiday season. Serve it with make ahead cranberry sauce.
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Did You Make Any of These Keto Recipes?
Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of the best keto recipes we have to offer. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.
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Cake Mix Cookies
Cake mix cookies are the easiest way to bake cookies. These soft and chewy cookies are made with just three simple ingredients and are ready to eat in 20 minutes (no chilling required!). Plus, you can customize them in endless ways by mixing and matching different cake mix flavors with add-ins like chocolate chips, M&M's, nuts, and sprinkles. They are so much fun to make - and more fun to eat!
Why You'll Love Cake Mix Cookies
- Soft and chewy. One of the best things about cake mix cookies are that they have the best texture - soft, fluffy, and pillowy. These cakey cookies are seriously the best way to transform a box cake mix.
- Quick and easy. Cake mix cookies are also super easy to make with just 3 to 4 ingredients and require no chill time. Which means that you can make the cookie dough, scoop them out and pop into the oven, and enjoy your cookies less than 20 minutes later.
- Completely customizable. You can use this recipe to transform any flavor of cake mix into cookies. Plus, when you consider different kinds of add-ins to include (or not include), then the options truly become endless. We made our three favorite cake mix cookies - double chocolate, red velvet, and M&M.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make these easy cake mix cookies, you will need just 3-4 ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- box cake mix - you can use any flavor of cake mix in this recipe. Try vanilla, chocolate, red velvet, carrot cake, funfetti, or lemon.
- eggs
- vegetable oil - feel free to substitute with melted butter.
- add-ins - add-ins are totally optional, and you can add in whatever you'd like. Try chocolate chips, M&M's, nuts, peanut butter chips, chopped chocolate bars, mini Reese's pieces, sprinkles, or dried cranberries.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, hand mixer (or stand mixer), cookie scoop, half sheet baking pan, and silicone mat, and wire cooling rack.
How to Make the Best Cake Mix Cookies
- Make the cookie dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, and oil. Use a rubber spatula and stir together until combined. You can also use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat together on low speed. Fold in any extra add-ins if using (such as chocolate chips, M&M's, or nuts), reserving about ¼ cup for the tops.
- Scoop cookies. Line a large half sheet baking pan with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. Use a medium cookie scoop to scoop out the cookie dough, and place it 2-inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Press in the remaining add-ins on top.
- Bake. Bake in a 350F preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, until cookies are set and lightly golden on the edges. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
- How to store: Store cake mix cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- How to freeze: You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- How to freeze cookie dough: If freezing cookie dough, I would suggest scooping them out first and placing on a cookie sheet about 1-inch apart. Then freeze until hard, about 1 hour. Transfer to freezer bags or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, place the cookie ball on a baking sheet and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, allow the cookies to come to room temperature while the oven is preheating, and bake.
FAQ and Recipe Tips
Can you make this with an 18.25 ounce box of cake mix?
Absolutely. Just increase the oil to ½ cup.
What combinations of cake mix and add-ins go well together?
You can make any combination of cake mix to add-ins that you would like and create something new. Some popular options are:
- Vanilla cake mix - with chocolate chips, M&M's, or sprinkles.
- Chocolate cake mix - with chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, nuts, chopped chocolate bars, or peanut butter chips.
- Red velvet cake mix - with white chocolate chips.
- Carrot cake mix - with white chocolate chips and/or chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Lemon cake mix - with white chocolate chips.
More Cookie Recipes
- 50 Best Cookie Recipes
- Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Snickerdoodles
- Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
- Gingersnaps
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Roast Beef
Homemade roast beef is tender, juicy, and delicious. It's a lot easier to make at home than you think! Marinated beef is roasted on high heat, and slow cooked on low heat to result in the best texture - perfect browned crust on the outside, and tender, moist, and juicy locked inside. This classic Sunday roast with vegetables is well-seasoned and packed with flavor. If you've never cooked roast beef before, this is the recipe for you. It's easy to follow with tips to help you achieve the best possible roast beef, whether you're a veteran cook or a novice in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love Roast Beef
- The perfect roasting technique. For this roast beef, you'll cook it at a high temperature for a short amount of time to achieve browning and flavor. Then, you'll switch to the low and slow method for a tender, juicy, irresistible roast beef. Once you try this method, you'll realize that there is no other way to cook roast beef.
- It elevates beef to the next level. Roast beef is a great technique for any cut of meat, but I especially enjoy it with less expensive cuts (you can even use this recipe with a rump roast). Roasting beef this way completely alters cuts known for their chewiness. Instead, you get tender, juicy, delicate, tasty roast beef!
- You can repurpose leftovers easily. Serve this roast beef for a holiday dinner or on a special occasion, but keep leftovers for soups, salads, sandwiches, and pasta the next day. i can eat it as a roast or on a sandwich. My favorites are in a Beef Wild Rice Soup or Beef Straganoff.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make juicy and tender Roast Beef, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- beef - I recommend round roast or top sirloin.
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
- rosemary - you can also substitute with fresh thyme or sage.
- Italian seasoning
- garlic
- vegetables - we roast this beef with vegetables including onions, carrots, and potatoes.
- balsamic vinegar - add flavors to the vegetables.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowl, and roasting pan.
How to Make the Best Roast Beef
- Prepare the beef. Use a paper towel to pat dry the round roast completely dry. Generously rub oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, Italian seasoning, and garlic evenly over the roast. Set aside for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, it's ideal to bring the marinated beef to room temperature to achieve even cooking and juicier meat.
- Prepare the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, add onions, carrots, potatoes, oil, salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar. Toss well to coat.
- Bake. Place the roast in a roasting pan with a rack in it and spread the vegetables around evenly. Bake in a 425F preheated oven for 20 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350F and continue cooking for 1.5 hours until the internal temperature reaches 140 F for medium rare doneness. For medium doneness, the target temperature should be 155 F, about 2 hours. Check doneness using a digital meat thermometer inserted deep into the meat.
- Rest. Remove the roasting pan and cover with aluminum foil to keep the meat moist. Let the beef roast rest for 15-20 minutes. Resting after cooking helps the juices redistribute into the meat as the internal temperature continues to rise a bit while resting
- Serve. Slice and serve with the roasted vegetables.
How to Cook Roast Beef in the Instant Pot
- Turn on the Sauté function on high on the Instant Pot (pressure cooker) and sear the marinated beef until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside on a plate.
- In a large mixing bowl, add onions, carrots, potatoes, oil, salt, pepper and vinegar. Toss well to coat and transfer into the pot.
- Add 1 cup of water or beef broth. Place the roast rack in the pot and arrange the beef on top. Seal the lid and turn the steam release knob to SEAL position. Pressure cook for 5 minutes. Once the time is up, quick release the remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to the venting position.
- Set the instant pot to "Keep Warm" and let the roast beef rest in the pot until the internal temperature reaches 140 F for medium rare doneness. For medium doneness, the target temperature should be 155 F, about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to check the temperature every 5 - 10 minutes using a meat thermometer until you achieve your desired doneness.
How to Serve Roast Beef
This recipe is made with roasted vegetables, but you can choose to skip that part if you want. Either way, you can serve roast beef with almost any side. From potatoes, to rice, to salad. Some of my favorites are:
- Roasted Garlic Parmesan Baby Potatoes
- Honey Roasted Carrots
- Greek Salad
- Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Pesto Green Beans
- Summer Corn Salad
Storing Instructions
- How to store: Keep leftover roast beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- How to freeze roast beef: You can freeze roast beef whole or in portions. I recommend slicing it before freezing and separating it into portioned servings in airtight containers or freezer bags so that it's easier to defrost when you want it. Roast beef will stay good for up to six months in the freezer.
- How to reheat: Place leftover roast beef in a preheated 350F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
More Beef Recipes
- Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Korean Beef Steak Rice Bowl
- Souvlaki Beef Shish Kebabs
- Slow Cooker Asian Beef Noodle Soup
- Korean Beef Steak Tacos
- 25 Best Ground Beef Recipes
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Gingersnaps
Crispy Gingersnaps are a classic holiday cookie that need to go on your holiday baking list this Christmas. These thin and crispy ginger molasses cookies are loaded with festive holiday spices and that classic molasses flavor. They have the best texture with a chewy centre and a classic crunchy snap. The best part? This is a no chill cookie dough recipe, meaning that these gingersnap cookies are quick and easy to make and ready to enjoy in just 25 minutes (including prep!).
Why You'll Love These Gingersnaps
- They have the best thin and crispy texture. Gingersnap cookies are given their name because they should literally snap when you eat them. These cookies are crispy, chewy, and crackly - all the things that classic gingersnaps should be. If you are looking for a soft and thick ginger molasses cookie, try out Soft and Chewy Ginger Cookies. They have the same flavor as Gingersnaps but with a softer texture.
- Quick and easy cookies. Gingersnaps are one of my favorite cookies to bake because they are so quick and easy to make. The batter comes together in less than 10 minutes, and then it's ready to pop into the oven for about 15 minutes. That's right, there is no chill time required! These are perfect when you are craving a last minute sugar fix, especially because you likely have all the ingredients at home if you have been doing some holiday baking already.
- Perfect holiday cookie. When it comes to holiday cookies, anything gingery comes to mind. We love to include these classic Christmas cookies in a Holiday Cookie Box to gift to family and friends. Some of other favorite ginger cookies to bake are Gingerbread Cookies, Gingerbread Biscotti, Gingerbread Linzer Cookies, and let's not forget a Gingerbread House.
Ingredient Notes
To make these easy crispy gingersnaps, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- butter
- sugar - we use sugar in the cookie dough and for rolling the cookies to ensure an extra crunchy and crackly top.
- molasses - molasses is what gives these gingersnaps their signature taste and cannot be substituted. You will need to use unsulfured molasses (made from sugar cane), as backstrap molasses is too bitter to be used in these cookies.
- egg
- all-purpose flour
- baking soda
- spices - we use a combination of ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. You can choose to leave the nutmeg out or substitute with ground cloves depending on your taste preferences.
- salt
You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, hand mixer (or stand mixer), cookie scoop, half sheet baking pan, and silicone mat.
How to Make the Best Gingersnaps
- Make the cookie dough. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer (or stand mixer) to cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add in the egg and molasses beat until incorporated. Add in the dry ingredients and beat until just combined, and a firm dough is formed.
- Coat the cookies. Transfer the remaining sugar into a small bowl. Then, use a cookie scoop to scoop out 1-2 tablespoons of cookie dough at a time, and roll into 1-inch ball. Roll the cookie ball into the bowl of sugar to fully coat it. Place on a half sheet baking pan lined with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper, spaced 2-3 inches apart. You will have to bake in multiple batches, or freeze some uncoated cookie balls to bake later.
- Bake. Bake in a 350F preheated oven for 15 minutes until the edges are set and the tops are crinkled. Remove from oven and allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet. Then, transfer to a wire cooling rack to cool down completely.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to use leftover gingersnaps:Â We love using gingersnap cookies as a cheesecake crust base. You can use it any recipe that calls for graham crackers and crush up gingersnaps instead. See our Cranberry Sauce Swirl Cheesecake. You can also crush them up and make Gingerbread Truffles!
- How to store: Store gingersnaps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- How to freeze: Store gingersnap cookies in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- How to freeze gingersnap cookie dough: You can also freeze the rolled cookie balls that have not been coated in sugar for up to 2 months. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until sold, about 1 hour. Then transfer the cookie balls into a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, simply allow the cookie balls to defrost in the refrigerator, and then bring them to room temperature. Roll in sugar and bake.
More Cookie Recipes
- 50 Best Cookie Recipes
- Gingerbread Cookies
- Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
- Snickerdoodles
- Christmas Shortbread Cookie Bites
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Homemade chicken noodle soup is a classic feel-good comfort food, especially during the chilly fall and winter months. It's simple, quick, and easy to make it home, not to mention so flavorful with the perfect balance between ingredients. Fresh chicken and broth is cooked in a pot of sautéed vegetables, with pasta noodles and fresh herbs and cooked until soup perfection. Plus, you can save time and use a store-bought rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken from the fridge.
Why You'll Love Chicken Noodle Soup
- Chicken noodle soup is a classic. What more is there to say? There is nothing better or more nostalgic than a bowl of chicken noodle soup from scratch. Chicken noodle soup is a staple recipe that most of us grew with in some for or another. And this homemade version is so much better than anything you get from a box or can.
- It's a one pot meal. With the holidays approaching, life can become chaotic. We're all familiar with the feeling like there just isn't enough time to shop for ingredients, cook a great meal, and wash the dishes. Luckily with this old-fashioned chicken noodle soup, there's only one pot to clean.
- Cooks in 30 minutes. Speaking of time, this easy chicken noodle soup take just 30 minutes to cook, and 10 minutes to prep. Plus, if you use leftover rotisserie chicken, it will take even less time to cook. A protein-packed soup that cooks in just 30 minutes is a fast must-have recipe in your back pocket.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make this easy Chicken Noodle Soup, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in the recipe card below):
- olive oil
- vegetables - onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- chicken broth - the key to making this soup the best version it can be is to pick a high-quality chicken broth. When I have time, I like to use a homemade chicken broth.
- chicken - this chicken noodle soup from scratch is cooked with chicken breast directly in the pot. You can also use cooked leftover rotisserie chicken, shredded chicken, or leftover turkey instead.
- pasta
- fresh herbs - dill and parsley.
- salt and pepper
- lemon juice - optional, for serving.
You will also need measuring cups and spoon and a 4 quart Dutch oven.
How to Make the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Sauté aromatics. Heat oil in a 4 quart Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat until the hot oil sizzles, about 1 minute. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add chicken. Add chicken broth and chicken breasts. Cover the lid and bring it to a simmer over medium heat until chicken is cooked through, about 12-15 minutes. (If using cooked chicken, just cook until warmed through, about 5 minutes). Remove the chicken and shred into small pieces with 2 forks. Once shredded, transfer back into the pot and mix evenly. (If you use cooked shredded chicken, you can skip this step).
- Add noodles. Add noodles and cook until al dente according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally, about 6-8 minutes.Turn off the heat and stir in dill and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve. Serve immediately and drizzle with lemon juice if desired.
What to Serve with Chicken Noodle Soup
Serve homemade chicken noodle soup with a sandwich, salad, or a side of bread for dipping. Here are some of my favorites:
- Roasted Broccoli Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Garlic Breadsticks
- Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad
- Tuna Melt Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Rice Croutons
- Mediterranean Chickpea Wedge Salad
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- How to store: Store chicken noodle soup in the same pot you cooked it covered with the lid, or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay good in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. My advice? If you're not sure if you'll eat it fast enough, freeze it right away. This way, it's guaranteed to be fresh when you are ready to eat it.
- How to freeze: Love chicken noodle soup? Save some for next week (and next month)! This chicken noodle soup freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer bags or airtight containers and freeze for up to 4-6 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
- How to reheat: Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes. You can also reheat a bowl in the microwave in 20 second increments until warmed through.
More Chicken Soup Recipes
- 60 Best Soup Recipes
- Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
- Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Chicken and Rice Soup
- White Chicken Lasagna Soup
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
Star Bread
This pull-apart star bread is buttery, sugary, and delicious. It is a work of art that tastes as good as it looks. The best part? It might look hard or intimating to make but it's actually incredibly easy! With this step-by-step recipe, anyone (beginners included) can bake an amazing loaf of this holiday bread, even if you've never made bread from scratch. Serve it as a holiday dessert, breakfast or brunch, or just to snack on throughout the day.
Why You'll Love Star Bread
- It's an impressive showstopper. Let's be honest. It feels good to say "I made that" when someone compliments how beautiful the centerpiece of the holiday dessert table is (not to mention delicious too!). This star bread recipe will impress your guests and it will probably impress you too.
- A classic holiday dessert. Christmas Star bread gets its name from the 8-pointed star shape that you create. It's usually served as a holiday dessert bread but between you and me, it's a great bread any time of the year.
- Easy to follow recipe. Like most bread recipes, there are a lot of steps when making this star bread. You'll need to bear through two proofs, knead and roll out multiple balls of dough, and create the iconic star by layering the dough with filling, cutting, and twisting the ends. Doing it right takes some dedication and attention to detail, but this recipe gives you all the information you need to make it a breeze.
- It tastes as good as it looks. Star bread has a unique sugary, buttery taste that is so delicious. Plus, you can completely customize it with different toppings. If you were looking forward to Christmas cookies and treats this year, you'll love your first bite of this sweet star bread - and every bite after.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make these festive Christmas Star Bread, you will need a few simple ingredients (full quantities in recipe card below):
- milk
- sugar
- instant yeast - you can also use active dry yeast, but let it sit in the milk mixture for 5-10 minutes first to activate the yeast.
- egg
- butter
- all-purpose flour
- salt
- egg - this is for the egg wash on top which helps give the bread a golden crust.
- brown sugar filling - made with softened butter and brown sugar. You could also add some cinnamon for a cinnamon star bread.
This star bread recipe is made with a classic butter and brown sugar filling, but you can totally customize it make it your own. Consider adding these star bread fillings:
- finely chopped nuts
- cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or pumpkin pie spice
- chocolate or nutella
- jam or jelly
- apple butter or pumpkin butter
You will also need measuring cups and spoons (or kitchen scale), mixing bowl, parchment paper, and half sheet baking pan.
How to Make the Best Star Bread
- Prepare the dough. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, yeast, and egg until smooth. In a large mixing bowl, add flour, butter and salt and mix well with a spatula. Pour in the wet mixture and stir well to combine until it forms a shaggy dough, scraping down the sides of the bowl (there should be no dry flour particles visible).
- Knead the dough. Knead the dough on a clean lightly floured surface for 5 minutes until it changes from a sticky shaggy dough into a smooth and soft dough ball. Apply a little bit of oil or butter in your hands if needed.
- A well kneaded dough is smooth and can hold its shape. Also, when you give the dough ball a firm poke with your finger, the indentation should bounce right back. If it doesn't bounce back and stays like a dimple, keep kneading for a few minutes.
- First rise. Cover the bowl with plastic cling wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature (preferably in a warmer area) for 1 hour until doubled.
How to Shape Star Bread
- Flatten the dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces with a bench scraper. Shape into smooth balls by cupping the dough in your palm and making circular motions. It should take less than 30 seconds to roll each piece into a smooth ball.
- Use a rolling pin to roll each dough ball into a 10-inch circle, approximately. Place one dough circle on a piece of parchment paper. Spread 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons brown sugar evenly on top.
- Stack the next dough circle on top and stretch it so that the two dough circles align on the edges. Spread the same amount of butter and sugar on top.
- Repeat the step until 4 layers of dough are stacked evenly with the filling (the top layer will not have any butter or sugar on top).
- Place a 3-inch round object such as a round cookie cutter or rim of a glass in the center to make an indent, which becomes the center of the star.
- Cut the dough into 16 evenly spaced strips with a pizza cutter or knife. Make sure all the layers are cut through.
- Take two strips at a time and twist them away from each other twice, then press the two bottom ends together to make a point. Repeat the twisting until the star bread forms 8 points.
- Second rise: Cover the star bread loosely with plastic cling wrap and let rise at room temperature for 30 minutes until almost doubled.
How to Bake Christmas Star Bread
- Transfer the star bread with the parchment paper onto a large half sheet baking pan. Brush with egg wash evenly on top.
- Bake in a 350F preheated oven for 25 minutes until the top turns golden brown.
- Allow the star bread cool for 10 minutes, then serve. Dust with confectioners' sugar on top (optional).
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Don't skip steps: When baking bread, every step is essential. So, don't rush it and don't skip any steps. Make sure to yourself extra time to make this star bread if it's your first time.
- Storage instructions: Keep star bread at room temperature in an airtight container for 1-2 days or in the refrigerator for up to one week.
More Sweet Bread Recipes
- 50 Best Bread Recipes
- Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Twist Bread
- Quick and Easy Butter Croissants
- Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls
- Cinnamon Raisin Challah Bread
- Healthy Banana Bread
Tried this recipe?
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.
15 Best Meatball Recipes
When we are looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner to make on busy weeknights, meatballs always come to mind. They are typically ready in just 30 minutes, soak up different flavors and seasonings so well so you can completely customize them, and are loved by the whole family - kids and adults alike. So if you are wondering "how to make meatballs", you are in the right place. Today, we are sharing over 15 best meatball recipes including ground beef meatballs, ground turkey meatballs, vegetarian meatballs, saucy meatballs, and more. Serve almost all these meatballs on their own as a bite-sized appetizer on game day, over a bowl of rice, or wrapped in pita bread.
Best Ground Beef Meatballs
Sticky honey garlic meatballs are a delicious and flavourful 30-minute meal to add to your weekly dinner rotation. A total crowd pleaser.
Delicious, comforting homemade Swedish meatballs are seared and smothered in a creamy gravy sauce and taste so much better than IKEA meatballs.
Meatballs are probably my favorite of all ground beef recipes. These quick, easy homemade Italian meatballs are juicy, flavourful, and delicious, simmered in a rich and savoury tomato sauce. Make them in just 30 minutes.
Teriyaki meatballs are our latest go to weeknight dinner - quick and easy to cook in the air fryer or oven, saucy and flavorful, and freezer-friendly.
Baked Greek meatballs are juicy, tender, flavorful, and delicious. They are quick and easy to make in 30 minutes, and freezer-friendly. Serve with tzatziki.
Sweet and sour meatballs are quick, easy, delicious, and flavorful, tossed in a vegetable and pineapple stir fry with homemade sweet and sour sauce.
Cranberry Meatballs are sticky, sweet and tangy. These delicious bites are the perfect holiday appetizer, or a great way to use up leftover cranberry sauce.
Quick and easy spaghetti and meatballs is delicious, rich, comforting with tender beef meatballs simmered in a savoury tomato sauce. Make it in 30 minutes.
Lion's Head Chinese Meatballs are tender and juicy homemade pork meatballs packed with Asian seasonings and tossed in a sweet and sticky sauce.
Best Ground Turkey Meatball Recipes
Sweet chili turkey meatballs are delicious, tender and juicy, loaded with classic Thai flavors, and quick and easy to make. Savory, sweet, and tangy.
Thai Turkey Meatballs in Coconut Curry
Thai turkey meatballs in coconut curry are the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something delicious, healthy, flavorful, and satisfying.
When it comes to weeknight menu planning, baked turkey meatballs reign supreme. Say hello to dinner ready in under 20 minutes from prep to table!
Best Vegetarian Meatballs
Homemade falafel are delicious, golden brown and crispy on the outside, fluffy tender and soft inside. Plus, they're vegan, loaded with plant-based protein.
Quinoa Cauliflower and Chickpea Vegetarian Meatballs
Vegetarian meatballs are easy to make with a combination of quinoa, cauliflower, chickpeas and an assortment of spices and herbs, drizzled with a homemade tahini sauce.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
Meatballs store well, reheat well, and are freezer friendly. Refer to each recipe for full storage instructions, but generally:
- How to store: Store meatballs in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply reheat in a shallow saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through (or in the microwave). You may need to add a little water if it has a sauce that has thickened up too much in the refrigerator.
- How to freeze: You can freeze the meatballs before tossing them into any sauce. Cook and let them cool down, then transfer into a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- How to reheat from frozen: Allow the meatballs to thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then reheat on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through.
More Popular Recipes
- 25 Best Ground Beef Recipes
- 10 Best Lasagna Recipes
- 10 Best Stuffed Peppers Recipes
- 60 Best Soup Recipes
- 40 Best Pasta Recipes
Did You Make Any of These Meatball Recipes?
Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of the best lasagna recipes. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.
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