Living On A Dime

Category: Gluten Free Recipes

  • 12 Easy 2 Ingredient Ice Cream Recipes!

    12 Easy 2 Ingredient Ice Cream Recipes!

    Try these easy 2 ingredient ice cream recipes you can make at home without a machine! You’re going to love how easy, creamy and delicious they are!

    Here are 12 easy 2 ingredient ice cream recipes to help you keep your cool this summer! They’re cool and fruity and you can make them easily in just minutes without needing an ice cream machine!

    12 Easy 2 Ingredient Ice Cream Recipes!

    Here are 12 easy 2 ingredient ice cream recipes to help you keep your cool this summer! They’re cool and fruity and you can make them easily in just minutes without needing an ice cream machine!

    You can start with a basic homemade vanilla ice cream recipe. This one is our youngest son’s favorite ice cream! It is delicious and creamy as-is, but you can also add any of our suggested tasty optional toppings or any other sweet topping you can imagine!

    If you prefer another flavor, you’ll find lots of great flavors of ice cream recipes in this post including banana, chocolate banana, strawberry banana, coconut and lots more! Craving peanut butter? One of these ice cream recipes is a tasty peanut butter banana!

    And if you’re in the mood for something cool besides ice cream, check out the refreshing pineapple whip or the homemade popsicle recipes!

    Easy Ice Cream Recipes

    This easy 2 ingredient ice cream recipe is perfect when you want to serve a basic vanilla ice cream and then let the kids or your guests add their favorite toppings from a selection you lay out. It’s perfect when you expect to server it to a group of people with varying tastes.

    Try these easy 2 ingredient ice cream recipes you can make at home without a machine! You're going to love how easy, creamy and delicious they are!
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    2 Ingredient Ice Cream

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    Ingredients

    2 cups heavy cream, very cold
    1 (14 oz.) can Sweetened Condensed Milk
    about 2 tsp. vanilla extract (optional)
    *optional ingredients from below

    Instructions

    Mix cream on high speed until it becomes stiff, 2-4 minutes, depending on your mixer. Fold in sweetened condensed milk. If you are adding in any of the optional extras, do that now. Transfer to a container with a lid and freeze for 6 hours.

    *Optional Ingredients

    • 1/4 cup chocolate chips, chopped
    • 2 Tbsp. chocolate syrup
    • 1/4 cup nuts
    • 1/4 cup maraschino cherries
    • 1/4 cup fruit, chopped
    • 1/4 cup cookies, crushed

    You can see me make this easy ice cream recipe here:

    Before we get into all of the delicious ice cream recipes, here are some easy homemade popsicle recipes you might also like, perfect for the kids and their friends on hot summer days. Cool, healthy and delicious!

    Here are 15 healthy and super easy homemade popsicle recipes, most of which have only 2 ingredients, to make your summer cooler! Go ahead and have one!

    15 Super Easy Homemade Popsicle Recipes

    In addition to the ice cream recipes, here are 15 homemade popsicle recipes, most of which have just 2 ingredients, too! Find them here.

    Here's a tasty banana ice cream recipe that makes the perfect healthy snack for hot days! Made with real bananas, you can feel great about giving this to your kids and know it's so much better than the convenience snacks from the store!

    Here’s a basic banana ice cream recipe that makes the perfect healthy snack for hot days! Made with real bananas, you can feel great about giving this to your kids and know it’s so much better than the convenience snacks from the store!

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    Banana Ice Cream

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    4 bananas, very ripe, sliced and frozen

    Ingredients

    Blend the bananas in a blender or food processor until smooth. This may take a bit so just scrape it down and keep blending.

    Here’s a tasty banana ice cream recipe with chocolate chips so you can have the taste of chocolate in a healthy snack that is especially refreshing on hot days! Made with just 2 ingredients including real bananas, you can have a healthy and delicious snack fast!

    Here's a tasty banana ice cream recipe with chocolate chips so you can have the taste of chocolate in a healthy snack that is especially refreshing on hot days! Made with just 2 ingredients including real bananas, you can have a healthy and delicious snack fast!
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    2 Ingredient Chocolate Banana Ice Cream

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    4 bananas,  very ripe, sliced and frozen
    2 Tbsp. chocolate chips (dark, cherry, semi-sweet, mint)

    Ingredients

    Blend bananas and chocolate chips in blender or food processor until smooth. This may take a bit so just scrape it down and keep blending.

    This easy 2 ingredient strawberry banana ice cream is a tasty tropical flavored cool treat made entirely of fruit! It's easy to make in just a few minutes and you can eat it as-is or add your favorite ice cream toppings!
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    2 Ingredient Strawberry Banana Ice Cream

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    Ingredients

    4 bananas, very ripe, sliced and frozen
    1/2 cup strawberries

    Instructions

    Blend the bananas and strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. This may take a bit so just scrape it down and keep blending.

    This 2 ingredient peanut butter banana ice cream recipe makes a cool and smooth dessert with the delicious taste of peanut butter! It's perfect to give energy to kids and if you like you can add chocolate and make it even better!
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    2 Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream

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    Ingredients

    4 bananas, very ripe, sliced and frozen
    2 Tbsp. peanut butter
    chocolate syrup (optional)

    Instructions

    Blend the bananas and peanut butter in a blender or food processor until smooth. This may take a bit so just scrape it down and keep blending. Drizzle in chocolate syrup if desired.

    This 2 ingredient cherry banana ice cream recipe makes a cool and healthy dessert with a delicious cherry banana taste! Add some vanilla or add some chocolate for the taste of a cherry banana split!
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    2 Ingredient Cherry Banana Ice Cream

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    Ingredients

    4 bananas, very ripe, sliced and frozen
    1/2 cup frozen cherries
    1/2 tsp. vanilla (optional)

    Instructions

    Blend the bananas, cherries and vanilla (if using) in a blender or food processor until smooth. This may take a bit so just scrape it down and keep blending.

    This 2 ingredient coconut ice cream recipe makes a cool coconut flavored dessert you can make in just a few minutes! It’s perfect as-is, but you can also add some chocolate for a mounds like flavor or add some pineapple for piña colada ice cream!

    This 2 ingredient coconut ice cream recipe makes a cool coconut flavored dessert you can make in just a few minutes! It's perfect as-is, but you can also add some chocolate for a mounds like flavor or add some pineapple for piña colada ice cream!
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    2 Ingredient Coconut Ice Cream

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    Ingredients

    2 cups heavy whipping cream, well chilled
    1 can Cream of Coconut (NOT coconut milk. Cream of coconut is usually found in the alcoholic mixes aisle or in the Asian food section.)

    Instructions

    Whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks, either with a hand or stand mixer. Slowly fold in the cream of coconut. Mix well.  Pour the ice cream mixture into a 2 quart freezer safe container. Freeze overnight. Store in the freezer.

    This 2 ingredient raspberry ice cream recipe makes a cool and tangy ice cream you can prepare in just a few minutes! And of course, you can top it with chocolate if you like!
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    2 Ingredient Raspberry Ice Cream

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    Ingredients

    2 bananas, frozen
    2 1/2 cups raspberries, frozen

    Instructions

    Blend together ingredients until ice cream consistency is reached.

    This 2 ingredient pineapple whip recipe makes a delicious smoothie with a piña colada flavor! It's cool and refreshing, especially on warm days!
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    2 Ingredient Pineapple Whip

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    Ingredients

    1 whole pineapple – cut up and frozen overnight*
    1 cup of coconut milk (or milk of your choice)

    Instructions

    Combine ingredients and blend in blender or food processor, stirring as needed, until creamy. Makes about 3-4 servings.

    You may use canned pineapple. Just place it in an 8×8 inch pan and freeze in one layer.

    This easy 2 ingredient peach ice cream recipe makes a delicious peach flavored ice cream! You can freeze your own peaches for this recipe or make it easy and buy a bag of fresh frozen peaches from the grocery store! It only takes a few minuted and you'll have a lovely frozen treat!
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    2 Ingredient Peach Ice Cream

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    Ingredients

    2 cups frozen peach slices
    1/4 cup full fat coconut milk (You may need a tad more.)

    Instructions

    Process in a blender or food processor until creamy. Serves 2.

    This 2 ingredient ice cream recipe makes a nice soft serve ice cream with the taste of your choice of soda. Choose from a fruit flavored soda, cola or even root beer!
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    Soda Ice Cream

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    Ingredients

    4 cups soda (any flavored soda of your choosing: lemon-lime, peach, raspberry, cola, cherry, etc.)
    1 – 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk

    Instructions

    Place the ingredients in an ice cream maker, following the manufacturer’s instructions. It will make a nice soft serve. If you want it firmer, just leave it in the freezer for another hour.

    To see how easy it is to make easy recipes with 5 ingredients or less that taste GREAT, check out our 5 Ingredient Recipes YouTube Channel here!

    Some of these 2 Ingredient Ice Cream Recipes are from our Dining On A Dime Cookbook, Volume 2:

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  • Easy Green Chile Recipe! Quick And Delicious!

    Easy Green Chile Recipe! Quick And Delicious!

    Green chile is a tasty light meal when eaten with tortillas, but can also be used to top a lot of different Mexican-themed dishes! Try this easy homemade green chile recipe and you’ll have an easy meal for your family!

    This easy green chile recipe makes a light tasty meal when eaten with tortillas, but can also be used to top a lot of different Mexican themed dishes! It's super delicious!

    I absolutely love green chile! Being from Colorado, it’s pretty common to find green chile at Mexican restaurants. It can be eaten as a soup or it can be used to pour over the top of smothered burritos, enchiladas and more.

    I like to serve my green chile wrapped in tortillas. Then I smother the tortillas with more green chile and then top with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and sour cream.

    If you like, you can make up the green chile and pour it over your favorite Mexican dishes like burritos or enchiladas. You can also pour it over chicken or pork chops.

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    Easy Green Chile Recipe

    This easy green chile recipe makes a light tasty meal when eaten with tortillas, but can also be used to top a lot of different Mexican themed dishes! It's super delicious!
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    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    1/2–1 lb. pork roast, or chops cubed into small pieces
    10 1/2 oz. chicken broth
    1 onion, finely chopped
    1/4 – 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
    1 (7 oz.) can green chiles, diced
    1/4 jalapeno, finely chopped
    1 Tbsp. butter
    1 tsp. salt
    2 Tbsp. flour or cornstarch, dissolved in water
    flour tortillas (or corn tortillas if you’re gluten free)

    Toppings

    cheddar cheese, grated
    lettuce, shredded
    tomato
    sour cream

    Instructions

    1. Simmer pork in broth on low for 10 minutes.
    2. Add all of the other ingredients except flour.
    3. Simmer 45 minutes.
    4. Thicken with flour or cornstarch so it is like a thick soup.
    5. Spoon about 1/4 cup into the center of a flour tortilla.
    6. Roll up tortilla.
    7. Top with more green chile.
    8. Sprinkle with cheese, lettuce and tomato.
    9. Top with sour cream, if desired.

    This green chile freezes really well.

    Notes

    • This easy green chile recipe calls for pork, but I also occasionally make it with cubed cooked chicken.
    • This recipe is a great way to use leftover pork or chicken.
    • If you like, you can make the green chile and instead of serving wrapped in a tortilla, you can use to pour over your favorite Mexican dishes like burritos or enchiladas.
    • This green chile recipe is also good served over rice and garnished with the cheese, lettuce and other toppings.

    For hundreds of delicious recipes like this for quick and easy meals, check out our cookbooks!

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  • Honey Baked Chicken Recipe – Easy And Delicious!

    Honey Baked Chicken Recipe – Easy And Delicious!

    You can make this Honey Baked Chicken Recipe in less than 5 minutes for less than $5 for the entire family! This is our family’s favorite because it is so delicious. It has also been a reader favorite for years! It is so easy to make that it’s perfect for the days when you don’t feel like cooking and want something fast!

    Make this Honey Baked Chicken Recipe in less than 5 minutes for less than $3 for the entire family! This is our family’s favorite and it's easy to make!

    This honey baked chicken recipe is perfect when you’re not feeling like cooking and want something fast! This is such a simple recipe but the result is fantastic! It’s been a staple in our house for years and readers and viewers just rave about it!

    I like to toss this honey baked chicken in the oven and then serve with rice and an easy vegetable like broccoli or mixed vegetables. For other easy dinner options, you can also serve it with baby carrots, sliced bell peppers, sliced cucumbers or a salad.

    To simplify meal planning, I like to keep 5-10 of my favorite recipes for easy family dinners on hand and make these same recipes for most of our family meals. When you know your family loves certain recipes, don’t make it hard on yourself by trying to always make something different. Families love predictability with the meals. Then, when you’re feeling a little more energetic and adventurous, you can try something new and maybe a little more time consuming.

    My husband and our kids have always loved this honey baked chicken recipe and none of our picky eaters have ever complained about it! It’s a perfect healthy meal fast, so why complicate things even if you’re not in a hurry?

    This easy honey baked chicken recipe is from volume 1 of our cookbook:

    [dining]

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    Honey Baked Chicken Recipe – Easy And Delicious!

    Make this Honey Baked Chicken Recipe in less than 5 minutes for less than $3 for the entire family! This is our family’s favorite and it's easy to make!
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    • Author: Tawra Kellam
    • Yield: 4-6 servings

    Ingredients

    6 chicken fryer pieces
    1/3 cup margarine, melted
    1/3 cup honey
    2 Tbsp. prepared mustard
    1 tsp. salt

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 350°.
    2. Arrange chicken in a baking dish with the skin side up.
    3. Combine the rest of the ingredients.
    4. Pour over chicken.
    5. Bake at for 1 hour and 15 minutes, basting every 15 minutes (until chicken is tender and brown).

    Serve with rice. Serves 4-6.

    If you like this recipe, you might like these other easy chicken dinner recipes:

    Easy Chicken Curry Recipe

    Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

    Easy Beef or Chicken Fajitas – These are so easy and my husband and I love Mexican themed dishes so we make them often!

    Oven Fried Chicken Recipe with Biscuits – Even though this recipes calls for cooking the chicken with the biscuits, I often make the chicken without the biscuits. The kids frequently request it because everyone loves it so much!

    Mushroom Chicken Recipe

  • Oven Fried Chicken Recipe with Biscuits – Easy Meal Plan

    Oven Fried Chicken Recipe with Biscuits – Easy Meal Plan

    This easy oven fried chicken recipe with biscuits is a super easy way to make yummy fried chicken your family will love! It’s a cheap and easy comfort food meal!

    This easy oven fried chicken recipe with biscuits is a super easy way to make yummy fried chicken your family will love! It’s a cheap and easy meal and my teenagers love it so much, they always ask for more!

    This easy oven fried chicken recipe with biscuits is super tasty! The recipe is wonderful because of how the frying chicken flavors the biscuits, but you can just make the fried chicken if you like. I make it both ways and my family loves it!

    Once I realized how easy it is to make this oven fried chicken, I started making it a lot more often. It’s a great way to please the hungry family when I’m not feeling that great and I don’t feel like doing a lot of extra work. It takes about 5 minutes to prepare and then I can leave it to bake while I do other things.

    If you want to feed a larger group, you can easily double or triple this recipe. My husband and teenagers love it so I often make a larger batch. If there’s any chicken left over, it’s easy for them to warm it up in the microwave or air fryer for a quick lunch. Air frying the chicken leftovers give then the same oven fried chicken crispiness!

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    Oven Fried Chicken Recipe with Biscuits

    This easy oven fried chicken recipe with biscuits is a super easy way to make yummy fried chicken your family will love! It’s a cheap and easy meal and my teenagers love it so much, they always ask for more!
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    This easy oven fried chicken recipe with biscuits is a super easy way to make yummy fried chicken your family will love! It’s a cheap and easy meal and my teenagers love it so much, they always ask for more!

    This recipe is from our Dining On A Dime Cookbook, Volume 2.

    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    4 –5 Tbsp. margarine (not butter)
    1/2 cup baking mix
    4–6 pieces of chicken
    Salt and pepper
    1 can refrigerator biscuits (optional)

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 375°.
    2. Melt margarine in a 9×13 inch pan.
    3. Pour baking mix on a plate or in a plastic bag.
    4. Roll chicken in the margarine, then into the baking mix.
    5. Place back into the pan.
    6. Salt and pepper to taste.
    7. Bake for about 45 minutes, until the juices run clear.
    8. If using the biscuits: About 5-10 minutes before the chicken is done, push the pieces of chicken tightly against one side of the pan and lay biscuits into the pan on the opposite side.
    9. Finish baking until the biscuits are brown.

    Notes

    It’s okay to lay the biscuits in the margarine and all in the bottom of the pan. That makes the biscuits margarine soaked and crispy. Oh, yum!

    For more recipes like this easy oven fried chicken recipe, be sure to check out our cookbooks!

    The easy oven fried chicken recipe is in volume 2 of our cookbook.

    [dining]

    You can serve virtually anything with this easy oven fried chicken recipe. Since it already includes the biscuits, I will usually throw a vegetable like broccoli, mixed vegetables or green beans (We prefer French cut if we can find them) in the microwave when the fried chicken is finishing because it’s so easy. If I don’t end up making the biscuits, sometimes I will serve rice in their place along with a vegetable.

    Meal Plan:

    If you’re not sure what to serve with the chicken, here’s an easy meal plan you can use with the oven fried chicken recipe.

    Easy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe With Biscuits*
    Candied Red Sweet Potatoes*
    Corn
    Celery/Green Pepper Sticks
    Honey Spice Snaps*

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    Candied Red Sweet Potatoes

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    This candied red sweet potatoes recipe is a tasty variation on candied sweet potatoes, but with a kick! Candied sweet potatoes are delicious because they are made with a syrup that complements the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. This recipe also includes red hot candies, which add a sweet and spicy flavor to the sweet potatoes.

    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    Units

    1 cup sugar
    1 cup water
    3/4 cup red cinnamon candies (red hots)
    1/2 cup butter or margarine
    2–3 sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced to 1 1/2″ thick

    Instructions

    1. In a large skillet, heat sugar, water, candies and butter to a boil.
    2. Carefully place the sweet potatoes in a single layer in the hot syrup to cover the bottom of skillet.
    3. Cover and cook over medium heat until done and syrup is thick (about 1 hour).
    4. Baste several times with syrup while cooking.

    Notes

    These can be prepared ahead of time and warmed up.

    This easy honey spice snaps recipe makes tasty drop cookies that kids and familes love and that are an easy take along treat for parties! With honey, ginger, cinnamon and more, they have a wonderful homey flavor!
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    Honey Spice Snaps Cookie Recipe

    This easy honey spice snaps recipe makes tasty drop cookies that kids and familes love and that are an easy take along treat for parties! With honey, ginger, cinnamon and more, they have a wonderful homey flavor!
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    This easy honey spice snaps recipe makes tasty drop cookies that kids and familes love and that are an easy take along treat for parties! With honey, ginger, cinnamon and more, they have a wonderful homey flavor!

    • Author: Tawra Kellam
    • Yield: 2 dozen

    Ingredients

    1 cup brown sugar, packed
    3/4 cup shortening
    1 egg
    1/4 cup honey or dark corn syrup
    1 tsp. ginger
    1/2 tsp. salt
    1/2 tsp. cinnamon
    1/4 tsp. cloves
    1 1/2 tsp. soda
    2 1/4 cups flour

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 350°.
    2. In a mixing bowl, cream brown sugar and shortening.
    3. Add the egg and honey or corn syrup.
    4. Mix well.
    5. Mix all the dry ingredients in a separate bowl.
    6. Stir into the sugar mixture until well blended.
    7. Shape into balls.
    8. Dip half the ball in water, then in sugar.
    9. Place sugar side up on an ungreased cookie sheet.
    10. Bake 12-15 minutes. Makes 2 dozen.

    Here are some bonus tips you might like!

    • If you use a lot of caramelized onions, make some extra and freeze for the next time you need them. They last 3 months in the freezer.
    • If you are having a party and will be serving ice cream, fill a muffin tin with cupcake papers and put a scoop of ice cream in each then refreeze. No more sticky hurried mess trying to dig out and serve ice cream while your guests (or impatient children) wait.
    • When making baked potatoes, make a few extra to peel and use the next day to make potato soup, potato salad  or fried potatoes.
  • Apple and Bacon Salad Recipe – Perfect Side for Any Meal!

    Apple and Bacon Salad Recipe – Perfect Side for Any Meal!

    This apple and bacon salad recipe is packed with bold flavor and delicious texture—sweet, salty, crisp, and savory all in one bite! It’s the perfect fresh and satisfying salad when you want something a little more exciting than the usual.

    This easy apple and bacon salad recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and salty with a nice combination of delicious flavors! This recipe spices up regular salad and is so much tastier than plain lettuce and dressing! It's easy to make with just a few minutes' work and is the perfect side for chicken, beef or pork dishes!

    If you’re tired of the same old salad routine, this Apple and Bacon Salad Recipe is just the refreshing twist you need! With the perfect balance of sweet, salty, crunchy, and savory, this easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a salad that’s anything but boring. Crisp apples, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese served on a bed of fresh lettuce and carrots, all tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette that brings every bite to life.

    This salad is a wonderful side dish for just about any meal—chicken, pork, beef, or even a light lunch on its own. It’s a great way to add a pop of flavor and color to your plate, and it’s incredibly quick to throw together. From start to finish, it takes just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute company.

    The vinaigrette is simple and tasty, made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, dry mustard, and oregano. It ties everything together beautifully without overpowering the fresh ingredients. And if you want to save time for your Apple and Bacon Salad, cook a few extra slices of bacon at breakfast and set them aside for the salad later—easy and efficient!

    This apple and bacon salad recipe is not your standard boring salad! Whether you’re looking for something to elevate your dinner menu or just want a more exciting salad option, this easy salad recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s proof that salads don’t have to be plain to be easy—and they definitely don’t have to be boring to be healthy!

    [dining]

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    Apple and Bacon Salad Recipe

    This easy apple and bacon salad recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and salty with a nice combination of delicious flavors! This recipe spices up regular salad and is so much tastier than plain lettuce and dressing! It's easy to make with just a few minutes' work and is the perfect side for chicken, beef or pork dishes!
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    This easy apple and bacon salad recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and salty with a nice combination of delicious flavors! This recipe spices up regular salad and is so much tastier than plain lettuce and dressing! It’s easy to make with just a few minutes’ work and is the perfect side for chicken, beef or pork dishes!

    • Author: Jill Cooper

    Ingredients

    1/2 head Boston lettuce
    1/2 head leaf lettuce
    2 carrots, peeled and diced
    1 red apple, diced
    1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

    Vinaigrette:

    1/2 cup olive oil
    2 Tbs. red wine vinegar
    1/2 tsp. dry mustard
    1/4 tsp. oregano
    Pinch of salt, pepper and sugar

    Instructions

    1. Whisk the vinaigrette ingredients together in a salad bowl.
    2. Add all of the salad ingredients on top of it.
    3. Toss everything together.

    Notes

    To save time and make this salad easier fry extra bacon when you cook breakfast in the morning and save it back to use for the salad.

  • Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe – Quick, Easy And Delicious!

    Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe – Quick, Easy And Delicious!

    This slow cooker pot roast recipe is quick and easy to make and will satisfy everyone in your family! It’s also easy to use the leftovers for other quick meals!

    This slow cooker pot roast recipe is one of our favorite easy dinner recipes for family meals because it is super easy to make and oh, so delicious! You will be amazed at how delicious it is with very little work!

    This slow cooker pot roast recipe is so delicious and easy that it is one of the most popular recipes in volume 1 of our Dining On A Dime Cookbook! It is versatile and one slow cooked roast can be used to make several different meals to keep pleasing your family day after day!

    This slow cooked pot roast is so delicious that everyone always raves about it! I cook it for my family any time I can get a good price on beef roast, but it’s also a great recipe to make when you want to impress guests! We have also made this slow cooked roast for holidays and special occasions.

    This slow cooked roast recipe can be cooked in the oven or in a slow cooker. The secret to fall off the bone tender roast is in the slow cooking. I prefer to cook pot roast in the oven because I think it gives the roast a little bit better taste than the crockpot, but if you prefer a slow cooker, you will still end up with a tender and tasty roast.

    I usually take a few minutes to prepare the beef roast the night before and let it cook slowly all night in the oven. By the next day, it is already starting to smell delicious, but I keep letting it slow cook until it’s time to serve for dinner.

    Some people worry about leaving the oven on all night, but as long as there is nothing wrong with your oven, it should be fine, especially if it is an electric oven. I have cooked this slow cooker pot roast recipe in the oven for more than 25 years and have never had a problem.

    Easy Serving Ideas

    For an easy one pan meal, I sometimes add some potatoes, carrots and onions about 2 hours before the roast is finished and let them all cook together with the roast. This makes a great meal by itself, but if you want, you can also serve with a salad, fruit salad or fruit or veggies.

    If I don’t have carrots and potatoes on hand, I will make some rice and serve the roast with rice and an easy vegetable. My family likes the fresh frozen broccoli or mixed vegetables so if I’m looking for an easy veggie, I will often microwave one of these just before serving.

    We dump the rice ingredients in our rice cooker so it’s ready when the other food is done, but if you don’t have a rice cooker, you can easily make rice in a pan on the stovetop.

    In the fall when I have lots of zucchini and other squash, I will also occasionally fry some squash and onions in a frying pan with margarine or oil and serve with the slow cooker pot roast. You can fry the squash in butter, but you have to watch it carefully because butter burns easily.

    This slow cooker pot roast is super versatile. You can plan to make this pot roast and reserve the excess to make up to 4 dinners with 1 roast.

    There are many delicious ways to use leftover roast! The pot roast leftovers are perfect for sandwiches and wraps. You can make delicious Mexican-style wraps by placing some roast on a flour tortilla with cheese, onions, lettuce and salsa.

    For lots of great leftover pot roast recipes, be sure to check out the links to the other posts at the bottom of this post!

    This easy slow cooker pot roast recipe is from volume 1 of our cookbook:

    [dining]

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    Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe

    This slow cooker pot roast recipe is one of our favorite easy dinner recipes for family meals because it is super easy to make and oh, so delicious! You will be amazed at how delicious it is with very little work!
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    This delicious slow cooker pot roast recipe is easy to make with 5 minutes preparation time in an oven or a crockpot. I include the oven instructions first because I prefer to make it in the oven and crockpot instructions below!

    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    1 beef roast, 3-5 lbs.
    1 onion, sliced
    1 can cream of mushroom soup (omit for GF and sprinkle with seasoned salt)

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 250°.
    2. Place roast in pan.
    3. Pour cream of mushroom soup and onion on top.
    4. Cover tightly. Bake at 250° for 1 hour.
    5. Then turn it down to 225° and cook for 6-8 hours (about 6 hours for a smaller roast and 8 hours for a larger roast). When done, it should be so tender that the meat easily pulls off the roast with a fork. Serves 4 when you use a 3-5 lb. roast.

    Slow Cooker Instructions:

    If you prefer to cook this slow cooked roast in a crockpot or slow cooker, place the ingredients in the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 5-6 hours. For the most tender roast, it is best to cook longer on a lower temperature.

    Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°.

    Notes

    • This slow cooked roast recipe can be cooked in the oven or a slow cooker. The secret is in the slow cooking. I prefer to cook it in the oven because I think it gives the roast a little bit better taste than the crockpot, but if you prefer a slow cooker, you will still end up with a tender and tasty roast.
    • This slow cooker pot roast recipe is an excellent way to prepare inexpensive roasts. This slow cooked roast recipe makes them so tender they fall off the bone and are almost impossible to lift out of the pan.
    • This recipe is an excellent way to make a delicious meal for Sunday after church or for guests, because it can cook for 2 or 3 hours longer than required without overcooking.
    • Since it is so tender that no meat is left on the bone, you get more pot roast for your money. 

    From Tawra’s Inbox:

    Hello ladies,

    I just want to say a BIG THANK YOU for your slow cooked pot roast recipe! It has been a joke in my family how truly BAD my roasts taste. My loved ones dutifully eat it because they see how hard I’ve worked on dinner ( plus they are nearly starved to death by the time dinner is served ) and they see the strained smile on my face as I bring their plates to the table. But even I can barely swallow the roast.

    I always followed my “Better Homes and Gardens” cookbook faithfully and would try different cuts of meat, all to no avail; it still turned out so dry and tough.

    Enter your help. I have been enjoying flitting about your website and finding all sorts of nuggets of advice. Then I found your slow cooker pot roast recipe! This was the answer I’ve been searching for, lo these many years! I had been cooking it all wrong. I thought I was doomed to buying the pre-cooked roasts-in-a-bag at my local grocery store.

    Now my family smiles when they smell the slow cooked roast cooking as they come home from school. And I feel great knowing I have mastered one of the basic requirements of motherhood… cooking the perfect roast.

    Thank you for all your great tips!

    Sincerely, Becky H.

    “Your slow cooker pot roast recipe calls for pouring soup and onion over roast and to cover tightly. What do you mean by cover tightly? Wrap it in tin foil?”

    Thanks, Dennis

    Yes, wrap in foil. I just put one or two pieces on the top of the pan and then “seal” the edges with my fingers.

    -Tawra

    If you like this easy slow cooker pot roast recipe, check out these great recipe for using leftover roast beef:

    Using Leftover Roast Beef – Recipes And Ideas For Using Pot Roast

    4 Dinners, 1 Roast, $15! How To Plan Ahead Pot Roast

    Cheap Family Meals Week 1 – Easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast Meal Plan And More!

    Roast Beef Potato Salad Recipe And Banana Dessert

    This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

  • Cheesy Cauliflower Recipe – Easy And Delicious Vegetable Side Dish!

    Cheesy Cauliflower Recipe – Easy And Delicious Vegetable Side Dish!

    Looking for a simple way to make vegetables exciting? This cheesy cauliflower recipe is a quick and easy side dish your whole family will love—even the kids! Tender cauliflower is topped with a tangy, flavorful dressing made from mayonnaise, mustard, and onion, then covered in gooey, melted cheddar cheese. It’s so delicious, you’ll be amazed at how much you can love cauliflower!

    This cheesy cauliflower recipe makes a quick and easy vegetable perfect to serve as a side dish for many popular meals. Its cheesy, tangy flavor and tender texture really makes this cauliflower extra delicious! It's great served with chicken, beef, ham and more!

    Cheesy Cauliflower Recipe – A Quick, Easy, and Flavor-Packed Side Dish!

    If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make vegetables more exciting, this Cheesy Cauliflower Recipe is just what you need! It’s a simple dish that transforms basic cauliflower into something truly special with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand. The combination of creamy mayonnaise, a touch of tangy mustard, and a hint of onion creates a flavorful dressing that perfectly complements the tender cauliflower. Then, everything is topped off with melted cheddar cheese for a rich, gooey finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

    This cheesy cauliflower recipe has been a favorite in our family for years, and even picky eaters love it! It’s the perfect go-to when you want something a little different, but still comforting and easy to make. We make it any time we feel like something different and delicious, but it’s especially good at holidays and family get-togethers! The bright, cheesy flavor pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main dishes, including chicken, beef, pork, and ham.

    One of the best things about this cheesy cauliflower recipe is how fast and easy it is to prepare. You can have it on the table in under 15 minutes, all made right in the microwave! Simply cook the cauliflower until tender, spread the flavorful dressing on top, sprinkle with cheese, and microwave again until it’s deliciously melted. It’s the perfect side dish for busy nights when you still want something homemade and satisfying.

    Whether you’re trying to add more vegetables to your meals or just want a tasty new side dish to rotate into your menu, this cheesy cauliflower is a must-try. Once you taste it, you’ll wonder why you ever thought cauliflower was boring!

    This easy cheesy cauliflower recipe is from our Dining On A Dime Cookbook, Volume 1:

    [dining]

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    Cheesy Cauliflower Recipe

    This cheesy cauliflower recipe makes a quick and easy vegetable perfect to serve as a side dish for many popular meals. Its cheesy, tangy flavor and tender texture really makes this cauliflower extra delicious! It's great served with chicken, beef, ham and more!
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    This cheesy cauliflower recipe makes a quick and easy vegetable side dish perfect to serve with many popular meals. Its cheesy, tangy flavor and tender texture really makes this cauliflower extra delicious! It’s great served with chicken, beef, ham and more!

     

    • Author: Tawra Kellam
    • Yield: 4 servings

    Ingredients

    1 medium head cauliflower

    Topping

    1/2 cup mayonnaise
    1/2 tsp. onion salt or 1 tsp. onion, finely chopped
    1 tsp. mustard
    1/2 cup Cheddar cheese

    Instructions

    1. Wash the cauliflower (don’t dry).
    2. Place the cauliflower into a casserole dish.
    3. Cover with plastic wrap.
    4. Microwave 8-9 minutes, until tender.
    5. Combine mayonnaise, onion salt or onion and mustard.
    6. Spoon onto the cauliflower.
    7. Sprinkle cheese on top.
    8. Microwave 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese. Serves 4.
  • Gluten Free Flour Recipe: Make Your Own Perfect Blend at Home!

    Gluten Free Flour Recipe: Make Your Own Perfect Blend at Home!

    Finding an affordable gluten free flour can be challenging. We’ve found the perfect solution! Make your own all-purpose mix with our gluten free flour recipe. Keep the gf flour mixture on hand to use in all kinds of gluten-free baking, including all of the recipes in our Dining on a Dime Cookbook: Gluten Free Dairy Free edition.

    What Is Gluten Free Flour?

    Here's an easy gluten free flour recipe you can make for perfect gluten free baked goods! Keep some on hand for easy gluten free baking!

    Gluten itself is a protein or group of proteins found in wheat and other grains. This protein acts as a glue, holding foods made from these grains together and giving them shape. Gluten-Free Flour is any flour mixture made without wheat or other glutenous grains. Barley, rye and some oats are other commonly use grains that have gluten proteins.

    People with Celiac disease or anyone with gluten intolerance can make bread and baked goods using a gluten free flour mixture to protect their bodies from illness and unwanted reactions.

    Here's an easy gluten free flour recipe you can make for perfect gluten free baked goods! Keep some on hand for easy gluten free baking!

    Where Can I Get GF Flour?

    It is certainly getting easier to purchase ready-made gluten free flour in grocery stores in many areas of the United States. However, packaged goods come with a cost. Save money by making our gluten free flour recipe instead.

    If time is of the essence, here are my favorite store-bought gf flour mixes in order of preference.

    Instead of paying the hefty price for any of these expensive flour mixtures, try making our gluten free flour recipe and keeping it on hand in your pantry.

    Ingredients for our Gluten Free Flour Recipe

    Tapioca Flour. A starch that improves the flavor and texture of gf baked goods.

    Potato Starch. Starch works really well in baked goods to replace gluten because it is also a form of glue.

    Corn Starch. Using a variety to starches improves the taste and texture of your gluten free baked goods.

    Brown or White Rice Flour. Rice forms the base of most gluten free flour mixtures. If used exclusively it can give the baked goods a grainy texture, so that’s why we mix it with other flours.

    Sweet White Rice Flour. Adds a touch of sweetness to your flour mix and improves the taste.

    Xanthan Gum. A little xanthan gum improves the shape and texture of gf baked goods.

    Here's an easy gluten free flour recipe you can make for perfect gluten free baked goods! Keep some on hand for easy gluten free baking!

    How To Make This Gluten Free Flour Recipe

    The key to a really great gf flour recipe is using a blend of ingredients to balance the flavor and texture of your bread and baked goods. We love the ratio of ingredients in our recipe! All you have to do to make the recipe is mix all the ingredients together thoroughly and store them in an air-tight container. When you are ready to bake, you might give the mixture a quick stir since the different ingredients have varying weights and will settle over time.

    Our recipe provides eight cups of flour!

    Tips for Gluten Free Baking

    • If you have the storage space you can double everything so that you run out less often.
    • When baking, be sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level. Do not scoop the flour to measure it or you will end up with heavy baked goods instead of light and fluffy baked goods.
    • Use this gluten free flour one-to-one in any of your family recipes to replace regular flour.

    Recipes That Use Our Gluten Free Flour Mixture

    I’m listing a few of my favorite recipes here, but honestly, your best bet is to purchase my Gluten Free cookbook. I’ve been gluten-free for ten years, and It has all of my favorite recipes, personally tested by me. You can use this gluten free flour recipe to make the flour for any of these recipes!

    Gluten Free Brownies That Actually Taste Good! Fast and tasty (yes, Tasty!) brownies made with gf flour.

    Gluten Free Pound Cake Recipe. Serve with macerated strawberries and whipped cream for a delicious dessert all year round.

    Gluten Free Rolls. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any time you want homemade rolls on the table.

    Buy my Dining On a Dime Gluten Free Cookbook

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    Gluten Free Flour Recipe

    Here's an easy gluten free flour recipe you can make for perfect gluten free baked goods! Keep some on hand for easy gluten free baking!
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    Here’s an easy gluten free flour recipe you can make for perfect gluten free baked goods! Keep some on hand for easy gluten free baking!

    • Author: Tawra
    • Yield: 8 cups

    Ingredients

    • 2 2/3 cups tapioca flour
    • 1 1/3 cups potato starch
    • 1 1/3 cups cornstarch
    • 1 1/3 cups brown or white rice flour
    • 1 1/3 cups sweet white rice flour
    • 2 tsp. Xanthan Gum

    Instructions

    Mix all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight container. Stir occasionally before using.

    Notes

    When baking, be sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level. Do not scoop the flour to measure it or you will end up with heavy baked goods instead of light and fluffy baked goods.

    [gfdf]

  • Easy Stacked Enchiladas Recipe – The Easiest Way to Enjoy Enchiladas!

    Easy Stacked Enchiladas Recipe – The Easiest Way to Enjoy Enchiladas!

    We absolutely love this easy stacked enchiladas recipe! It makes a quick and easy meal that’s great for families! Our entire family loves it, including the kids and I have often served it when I don’t feel like spending a lot of time in the kitchen!

    If you love enchiladas but hate the hassle of rolling them, this Easy Stacked Enchiladas Recipe is for you! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing dish, these stacked enchiladas come together in no time.

    Easy Enchiladas Recipe!

    This stacked enchiladas recipe is different from a traditional enchilada recipe in that you don’t roll the enchiladas. Instead, you layer the toppings between 2 or more layers of filling and then add cheese and salad toppings on the top.

    As written, the recipe serves 4, and includes 2 tortillas per stacked enchilada, but I often included an extra layer in the middle for my husband. My husband and the kids absolutely love this recipe. The kids love it with homemade tortilla chips and sopapillas!

    I often cut tortillas into quarters and fry them in oil to make tortilla chips, especially when I have a pack of corn tortillas that is not quite as fresh and the tortillas are more brittle than flexible. These make great chips and give life to tortillas you might otherwise throw away.

    This easy enchilada recipe is very flexible. I make it with these ingredients because everybody likes them, the recipe doesn’t cost a lot to make and it’s super easy. If you wanted to make it fancier, you could add a can of black beans or pinto beans to the mixture. If you prefer, you could leave out the beef.

    You could also add black olives or chopped green onions to the top for a different kind of garnish. Or smother it in green chile if you prefer! Oh YUM! Really, any kind of Mexican food type modifications would probably be wonderful! If you make any modifications, tell us about them in the comments and how they turned out!

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    Easy Stacked Enchiladas Recipe

    If you love enchiladas but hate the hassle of rolling them, this Easy Stacked Enchiladas Recipe is for you! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing dish, these stacked enchiladas come together in no time.
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    If you love enchiladas but hate the hassle of rolling them, this Easy Stacked Enchiladas Recipe is for you! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing dish, these stacked enchiladas come together in no time.

    • Author: Tawra Kellam
    • Yield: Serves 4.

    Ingredients

    1/2 lb. ground beef
    1 onion, chopped, or 1 tsp. onion powder
    2 1/2 cups enchilada sauce
    vegetable oil for frying*
    1 cup Cheddar cheese, grated
    1 onion, chopped, or 1 tsp. onion powder
    1 tomato, chopped
    2 cups lettuce, chopped

    Instructions

    1. In a saucepan, brown ground beef and onions.
    2. Drain.
    3. Add enchilada sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
    4. Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a frying pan.
    5. While you are waiting for the oil to heat, prepare bowls of tomatoes, lettuce and cheese.
    6. The oil is hot enough when you place a tortilla in it and it sizzles. Have your plate ready in one hand and dip the tortilla in oil for 5 seconds.
    7. Using kitchen tongs, turn over the tortilla and cook 5 more seconds.
    8. Lift the tortilla out of pan, hold over the oil and drain slightly.
    9. Place the tortilla on the plate and put 1/4 cup beef mixture on top.
    10. Dip another tortilla in the oil and fry the same as above. Place on top of beef mixture.
    11. Top with more beef mixture, tomatoes and lettuce.
    12. Finish with a little cheese, sour cream and olives if desired. Serve warm. Serves 4.
     
     

    Notes

    For more hearty stacked enchiladas, you can stack additional layers of tortilla and then beef mixture before topping off with lettuce and tomatoes. If you do, you will want to adjust the recipe to make sure it serves the number of people you are feeding.

    *For lower fat enchiladas, dip in warmed enchilada sauce or just warm the tortilla in the microwave for 8 seconds; then add meat and toppings.

    For more quick, easy and delicious recipes like this Homemade Stacked Enchiladas Recipe, check out our cookbook!

    [dining]

    Other Recipes That Go Great With These Stacked Enchiladas:

    Easy Green Chile Recipe

    Easy Spanish Rice Recipe

    Easy Homemade Sopapillas! Just as good as in your favorite Mexican restaurant!

    Easy Enchilada Casserole Recipe

  • Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe – Foolproof & Delicious!

    Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe – Foolproof & Delicious!

    This easy spinach artichoke dip recipe makes a delicious dip that’s great for parties and other get-togethers! It’s quick, easy to make and simply yummy!

    This easy spinach artichoke dip recipe makes a delicious dip great for parties and other get-togethers! Quick, easy to make and simply yummy!

    This creamy, cheesy easy spinach artichoke dip recipe is unbelievably easy to make! It tastes just like the one from your favorite restaurant—but at a fraction of the price. We love making this dip for Christmas and special occasions, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

    It only takes about 5 minutes of prep to throw this dip together, so you can easily make it ahead of time and simply reheat at 350° for 20 minutes when you’re ready to serve.

    You can keep most of the ingredients on hand, so whenever you need a quick, delicious dip for a get-together, this recipe is ready to go!

    We usually serve spinach artichoke dip with:

    tortilla chips
    bread chunks
    crackers
    bagel chips
    and vegetables

    Spoil yourself and your friends with this truly delicious treat!

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    Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe

    This easy spinach artichoke dip recipe makes a delicious dip great for parties and other get-togethers! Quick, easy to make and simply yummy!
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    Indulge in the irresistible flavors of this easy spinach artichoke dip recipe that’s sure to be the star of any gathering. This crowd-pleasing appetizer combines tender spinach, savory artichoke hearts, and a blend of cheeses, all blended to a creamy, gooey perfection. Whether you’re hosting a casual game night or a festive holiday party, this easy-to-make dip is guaranteed to disappear in minutes.

    • Author: Tawra

    Ingredients

    1 cup thawed, chopped frozen spinach
    1 1/2 cups thawed, chopped frozen artichoke hearts
    6 oz. cream cheese
    1/4 cup sour cream
    1/4 cup mayonnaise
    1/3 cup grated Parmesan
    1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
    1/4 tsp. salt
    1/4 tsp. garlic powder

    Instructions

    1. Boil spinach and artichokes in 1 cup of water until tender.
    2. Drain. Discard liquid.
    3. Heat cream cheese in the microwave for 1 minute or until hot and soft.
    4. Stir in the rest of the ingredients
    5. Serve hot.

    For lots more quick and easy home cooked recipes, check out our Dining On A Dime Cookbooks!

    [dining]

  • Cream Soup Recipe Copycat: Ultimate White Sauce & Easy Dinners!

    Cream Soup Recipe Copycat: Ultimate White Sauce & Easy Dinners!

    This homemade white sauce recipe is super easy to make and is useful for enhancing all kinds of meals. This white sauce is easily adaptable for various recipes and we have included easy dinner recipes and tips for great ways to use the white sauce!

    White sauce and white gravy are essentially the same thing, so you can use it for biscuits and gravy or as a sauce for many main dish and breakfast recipes. Read on to find some easy meal ideas you can make with it!

    If you've been looking for an easy Cream of Soup Base, our Ultimate White Sauce Recipe is just the thing! This versatile recipe makes a perfect starter for sausage gravy, cream gravy, cream of soup base and more! You';ll also find easy and delicious recipes starting with white sauce!

    This is the white sauce recipe that grandma used to make when she made biscuits and sausage gravy or hamburger gravy on toast. This classic dish is easy to make and it’s actually pretty nutritious.

    Our Ultimate White Sauce Recipe is the perfect homemade alternative to canned cream soups! This simple, budget-friendly base is great for sausage gravy, cream gravy, and classic comfort foods like biscuits and gravy or hamburger gravy on toast—just like Grandma used to make. Easy to whip up with basic ingredients, this versatile sauce will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
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    Easy White Sauce Recipe

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    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    1 cup milk
    2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
    dash salt
    1 Tbsp. butter or margarine

    Instructions

    1. In a covered jar, combine the milk, flour and salt. Shake well until fully dissolved.
    2. Melt the butter in a 1-quart saucepan over low heat
    3. Stir in the flour-milk mixture.
    4. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. Continue stirring until smooth and fully thickened.

    This recipe makes 1 cup (equivalent to 1 can of cream soup) and can easily be doubled or tripled as needed.

    Notes

    This is the same white sauce recipe that Grandma used when she made biscuits and sausage gravy or classic hamburger gravy on toast.

    You can find this recipe in our Dining On A Dime Cookbook, Volume 1.

    White Sauce Variations:

    Chicken Sauce

    1. Omit the salt.
    2. Substitute cold chicken stock in place of the milk. 

    Cheese Sauce

    1. Add ½ cup of processed cheese cubes (Velveeta) or shredded Cheddar cheese to the white sauce.
    2. Heat over low heat, stirring until all the cheese is melted.

    [dining]

    Here are some tips to use white sauce and you’ll find easy recipes below!

    How To Use White Sauce – Tips And Ideas

    White sauce, also known as white gravy, is super easy to make and a great way to stretch meals, especially when you’re looking to make the most of meat. (Basically, white sauce is just an unflavored gravy.) Below are some creative ways to use homemade white sauce, turning simple ingredients into delicious meals while often utilizing leftovers at the same time!

    Ideas for Using White Sauce:

    Add to White Sauce:

    • Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
    • Canned tuna and/or frozen peas
    • Ham
    • Dried beef
    • Fried hamburger

    Serve White Sauce on Toast:

    • Top with any of the above options for a hearty, flavorful meal.

    Make White Gravy:

    • Mix with fried sausage and serve over warm biscuits for a classic breakfast dish.

    Use White Sauce as a Side with:

    • Cubed, cooked potatoes with melted American cheese
    • Cooked broccoli with a sprinkle of cheese
    • Cooked cauliflower with cheese
    • Macaroni and cheese: Mix cooked macaroni and cheese into white sauce, then bake until bubbly and golden.

    Use White Sauce as a Base for:

    • Chicken pot pies
    • Casseroles – It’s the perfect creamy base to bind everything together.

    This white sauce recipe is my preferred recipe because I can usually find regular milk on sale, and I personally prefer it over dry milk.

    As a side, serve white sauce with:

    Easy Recipes That Use White Sauce

    This easy meatballs with mushroom gravy recipe combines savory meatballs with a rich mushroom gravy. Add a vegetable on the side, and you’ve got a quick, easy, and delicious home-cooked meal that’s perfect for busy nights!

    This meatball recipe with mushroom gravy is super easy comfort food to make that families love! Server it over mashed potatoes, rice or pasta along with a vegetable or salad and you'll have an easy and healthy meal that will definitely satisfy!
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    Meatballs With Mushroom Gravy Recipe with White Sauce

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    • Author: Submitted by Roxie in Texas
    • Yield: About 40 meatballs

    Ingredients

    Meatballs

    1 lb. ground beef
    1/4 cup bread crumbs (dry)
    1 egg, beaten
    2 Tbsp. finely chopped onion
    1/4 tsp. salt
    1/4 tsp. pepper

    Mushroom Gravy

    1 cup white sauce
    1 small can mushrooms, chopped (optional)

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 400°.
    2. Mix all ingredients together and form into small balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. (I form mine in a teaspoon.)
    3. Bake for 10 -13 minutes.

     

    How to make the white mushroom gravy:

    1. Lower oven temperature to 300°.
    2. Whisk the white sauce and mushrooms together.
    3. Pour over the cooked meatballs.
    4. Bake for about an hour at 300°.
    5. Serve over mashed potatoes.

    Notes

    I have also made this with cheddar cheese soup. Just as good, only a different taste.

    This golden morning sunshine recipe is a quick and tasty breakfast recipe! You can make it any time but since it’s also a great way to use hard boiled eggs, it’s an especially good way to use all those colored eggs from Easter and have a tasty breakfast or dinner! You can find this recipe in our Dining On A Dime Cookbook, Volume 1.

    This golden morning sunshine recipe is a quick and tasty breakfast recipe! You can make it any time but since it's also a great way to use hard boiled eggs, it's an especially good way to use all those colored eggs from Easter and have a tasty breakfast or dinner!
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    Golden Morning Sunshine Recipe

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    Ingredients

    2 cups white sauce
    4 eggs, hard boiled and chopped

    Instructions

    1. Make the white sauce.
    2. Once the white sauce has thickened, add eggs.
    3. Serve on toast.

    (You can use more or less white sauce and eggs to taste.)

    This sausage stroganoff recipe makes a creamy home cooked dinner that’s hearty and delicious!

    This easy sausage stroganoff is a rich and creamy comfort food classic! Made with savory sausage, tender pasta, and a flavorful white sauce, it’s the perfect hearty dinner for busy nights. Ready in no time, this budget-friendly dish delivers big flavors with simple ingredients—making it a family favorite you'll want to make again and again!
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    Sausage Stroganoff Recipe

    This easy sausage stroganoff is a rich and creamy comfort food classic! Made with savory sausage, tender pasta, and a flavorful white sauce, it’s the perfect hearty dinner for busy nights. Ready in no time, this budget-friendly dish delivers big flavors with simple ingredients—making it a family favorite you'll want to make again and again!
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    This easy sausage stroganoff is a rich and creamy comfort food classic! Made with savory sausage, tender pasta, and a flavorful white sauce, it’s the perfect hearty dinner for busy nights. Ready in no time, this budget-friendly dish delivers big flavors with simple ingredients—making it a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again!

    • Yield: Serves 5-6

    Ingredients

    1 lb. bulk pork sausage
    1 cup onion, chopped
    2 1/2 oz. jar sliced mushrooms, undrained
    1 1/2 cups white sauce
    1 1/2 cups potatoes, cooked, cubed
    1 cup sour cream
    10 oz. can buttermilk biscuits
    1 cup peas, cooked

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 375°.
    2. In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet, cook the sausage and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
    3. Add the mushrooms.
    4. Over low heat, slowly add the white sauce, stirring constantly.
    5. Add the potatoes and heat until the mixture is bubbling.
    6. Stir in the sour cream.
    7. Arrange the 10 biscuits around the outer edge of the skillet, then spoon the peas into the center.
    8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown.

    This crockpot salisbury steak recipe is an easy comfort food recipe your family is sure to love! Why pay so much for it at a restaurant when you can make it at home fast and save. It’s quick to put together and then you can let it cook in the crockpot until you’re ready to serve!

    For this recipe, you can start with white sauce and adapt to make the brown gravy.

    This crockpot Salisbury Steak recipe is a delicious comfort food your family will love! It's easy to prepare ahead of time and then simmer in the crockpot until it's time for dinner!
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    Crockpot Salisbury Steak Recipe with White Sauce

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    Ingredients

    2 lbs. ground beef
    1 pkg. onion mushroom soup mix (If you can’t find it, then onion soup mix will work too.)
    1/2 cup saltine crackers, crushed
    1 egg
    1/4 cup milk
    2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
    1/4 cup all-purpose flour
    2 cups white sauce
    1 pkg. brown gravy mix, prepared according to package directions.**

    Instructions

    1. Mix the first 5 ingredients and shape into 8 patties.
    2. Pour vegetable oil into the frying pan
    3. Dredge the patties on both sides with the flour*.
    4. Brown in the hot oil on both sides.
    5. Place the patties in a crockpot. They can overlap.
    6. Combine the white sauce and mixed gravy. Pour over the patties.
    7. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, until the patties are cooked through.

    Notes

    *I just pour the flour onto a plate, lay the patty in it and dredge on each side.

    **You could replace the gravy mix with about 1 cup leftover roast gravy.

    This easy ham and noodles recipe is a quick and easy recipe that kids and families love! It’s a great way to use leftover ham! Keep some ham in the freezer just to use for easy recipes like this and it’ll be even quicker!

    This ham and noodles casserole recipe is quick and easy and kids love it! Just 5 minutes preparation for a tasty meal without a lot of work!
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    Easy Ham And Noodles Recipe (White Sauce Version)

    This ham and noodles casserole recipe is quick and easy and kids love it! Just 5 minutes preparation to a tasty meal without a lot of work!
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    This easy ham and noodle casserole is a quick, family-friendly dinner that kids love! With just 5 minutes of prep, you can have a warm, comforting meal on the table without the hassle. Perfect for busy nights, this creamy, cheesy dish is a delicious way to use up leftover ham!

    • Author: Sheala Cooper

    Ingredients

    1 (8 oz.) pkg. egg noodles or pasta, cooked
    1/2 lb. ham, chopped
    1 1/2 cups white sauce
    1 Tbsp. chicken bouillon powder
    1 Tbsp. onion flakes or 1/2 tsp. onion powder
    1 cup Cheddar cheese, grated

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 350°.
    2. Mix white sauce, bouillon powder, and, onion flakes.
    3. Place cooked past and ham into a casserole dish and pour the white sauce mixture on top.
    4. Bake for 20 minutes, until warmed.
    5. Top with cheese.
    6. Bake an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.
     
    You may add 1 package of any vegetable.

    This easy crockpot meatball soup recipe makes a hearty meal great for busy days! Your family will love this comfort food recipe and you won’t have to spend a lot of time in the kitchen! Win-Win!

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    Easy Crockpot Meatball Soup Recipe

    This easy crockpot meatball soup is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy days! It’s a family favorite that requires minimal effort. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, let it simmer, and enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. A true set-it-and-forget-it recipe for busy nights!
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    This easy crockpot meatball soup is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy days! It’s a family favorite that requires minimal effort. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, let it simmer, and enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. A true set-it-and-forget-it recipe for busy nights!

    • Yield: 6 servings

    Ingredients

    3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
    1 (16 oz.) pkg. fresh baby carrots, quartered
    1 large onion, chopped
    3 celery ribs, sliced
    1 (12 oz.) pkg. frozen cooked meatballs
    1 (10 1/2 oz.) can tomato soup, undiluted
    1 cup water
    1 (10 1/2 oz.) can beef gravy or 1 cup white sauce with 1 packet gravy mix
    1 envelope onion soup mix
    2 tsp. beef bouillon granules

    Instructions

    1. Layer the potatoes, carrots, onion, celery, and meatballs in a 5-quart slow cooker.
    2. In a bowl, mix the remaining ingredients together.
    3. Pour over the meatballs and vegetables.
    4. Cover and cook on low for 9-10 hours or until the vegetables are tender. 

    Notes

    • Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand—add an extra potato, reduce the carrots, or swap in other favorites like green beans or bell peppers.
    • Save leftover gravy! Gravy freezes well, so next time you have an extra cup or two, freeze it for a quick and easy addition to this recipe.

     This creamy chicken recipe is an easy dinner recipe that you can make in the oven or the crockpot. Serve over rice, potatoes or your choice of vegetables. It takes just a few minutes to make and everyone will love it!

    This creamy chicken recipe is a simple, delicious dinner you can make in the oven or crockpot with minimal effort! Tender boneless chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, velvety white sauce with optional mushrooms for extra flavor. Serve it over rice, potatoes, or your favorite vegetables for a comforting meal the whole family will love. Ready in minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for busy nights!
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    Easy Creamy Chicken Recipe

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    This creamy chicken recipe is a simple, delicious dinner you can make in the oven or crockpot with minimal effort! Tender boneless chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, velvety white sauce with optional mushrooms for extra flavor. Serve it over rice, potatoes, or your favorite vegetables for a comforting meal the whole family will love. Ready in minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for busy nights!

    Ingredients

    4 boneless chicken breasts
    1 cup white sauce
    1 can small chopped mushrooms (optional)

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 275°.
    2. Pour white sauce over chicken breasts.
    3. Bake, covered with foil, for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
    4. Serve over rice and or cooked vegetables.

    Crockpot Directions:

    You can also make this easy dinner recipe in the crockpot: Just dump everything in and cook for 4-6 hours on low.

     This chicken fried steak recipe is quick and easy and so delicious that your family is sure to love it! Save on your food bill with this inexpensive recipe, which costs dramatically less than the restaurant version!

    This chicken fried steak recipe is quick and easy to make at home and tastes just as good as at a restaurant! Your family is sure to love it!
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    Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipe

    This chicken fried steak recipe is quick and easy to make at home and tastes just as good as at a restaurant! Your family is sure to love it!
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    This easy chicken fried steak recipe makes crispy, tender, chicken fried steak that is packed with flavor—just like your favorite restaurant version! Quick and easy to make, it’s the ultimate comfort food your family will love. Serve it with creamy gravy for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!

    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    1 lb. ground beef (You can use pre-made patties.)
    1/4 cup milk, place in shallow bowl
    1/4 -1/2 cup all-purpose flour, place on plate
    1 egg, whipped with a fork and placed in a shallow bowl
    1/2 -3/4 of a tube of crackers, crushed, place on plate
    2 cups white sauce

    Instructions

    1. Form ground beef into 5-6 patties.
    1. Heat a frying pan with a little oil.
    2. Dip each patty into milk, then flour, then egg and last of all crackers.
    3. Place in the hot frying pan.
    4. Season with salt, pepper, onion and garlic powder.
    5. Turn down the heat and fry on one side. Then flip to other side.

    The ground beef is done when the juices run clear.

    Top with White Sauce. Add extra pepper if desired.

    This chicken supreme recipe makes a hearty casserole that is a great way to use leftover chicken or hard boiled eggs. It’s a nice variation that will please your family or guests!

    This easy chicken supreme casserole recipe is a super delicious casserole your family will love! It only takes 5 minutes to prepare and is perfect for families and get-togethers. It's a perfect way to use leftover chicken or turkey!
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    Easy Chicken Supreme Recipe

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    • Author: Jill Cooper

    Ingredients

    2 cups chicken, cooked and diced
    1/4 cup mayonnaise
    1 cup rice, cooked
    1 (4 oz.) can mushrooms
    1 cup celery, diced
    3 hard boiled eggs, chopped
    1 Tbsp. lemon juice
    1 Tbsp. onion, chopped
    1/2 cup slivered almonds
    1 cup white sauce
    1 cup Ritz crackers or corn flakes, crumbled
    2 Tbsp. butter, melted

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 350°.
    2. Mix everything but the cracker crumbs and butter.
    3. Pour into a 2 quart greased baking dish.
    4. Mix cracker crumbs and butter and sprinkle on top of casserole.
    5. Bake for 30-40 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

    This easy ham and potatoes recipe makes a tasty one dish meal that’s quick and easy to make. This is a hearty classic favorite comfort food that’s sure to please!

    This easy ham and potatoes recipe is perfect for busy days! Layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, melted cheddar cheese, and onions are smothered in a creamy white sauce for a comforting, no-fuss dinner. Just set it and forget it—let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Add mushrooms for extra flavor, and serve it up warm for a satisfying dish the whole family will love!
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    Easy Ham and Potatoes Recipe

    This easy ham and potatoes recipe is perfect for busy days! Layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, melted cheddar cheese, and onions are smothered in a creamy white sauce for a comforting, no-fuss dinner. Just set it and forget it—let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Add mushrooms for extra flavor, and serve it up warm for a satisfying dish the whole family will love!
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    This easy ham and potatoes recipe is perfect for busy days! Layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, melted cheddar cheese, and onions are smothered in a creamy white sauce for a comforting, no-fuss dinner. Just set it and forget it—let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Add mushrooms for extra flavor, and serve it up warm for a satisfying dish the whole family will love!

    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    6 potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
    2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
    1/2 -1 lb. ham, thinly sliced
    1 onion, chopped
    1 cup white sauce (or 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup)
    1 small can mushrooms, chopped (optional)

    Instructions

    1. In a crockpot, layer the potatoes first, followed by some cheese, diced ham, and chopped onions.
    2. Repeat the layers until the ingredients reach about 3 inches from the top.
    3. Pour the white sauce and mushrooms evenly over the top.
    4. Cover and cook on low for several hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are blended.

     This chicken pot pie recipe is a delicious one dish meal that’s quick and easy to make. This is a great way to use chicken leftovers or use turkey instead of chicken and save even more money on this classic favorite!

    Easy Chicken or Turkey Pot Pie Recipe - This Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe is delicious and easy to make. You can use turkey instead of chicken and save even more money on this classic favorite!
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    Chicken or Turkey Pot Pie Recipe

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    • Author: Tawra Kellam
    • Yield: Serves 4-6

    Ingredients

    1 2/3 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
    1 1/2 cups chicken or turkey, cooked and cubed
    1 cup white sauce
    1/4 tsp. thyme, dried
    1 cup biscuit mix*
    1/2 cup milk
    1 egg

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 400°.
    2. In a large bowl, mix the vegetables, chicken, soup, and thyme until well combined.
    3. Pour the mixture into an ungreased 9-inch pie pan.
    4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the biscuit mix, milk, and egg until smooth.
    5. Pour the batter evenly over the chicken mixture.
    6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown.

    *Shortcut Tip: For an even quicker and easier version, skip the biscuit mix and top the chicken mixture with canned biscuits or crescent rolls before baking!

     This Mexican cheese casserole recipe is a quick and easy meal your family is sure to love! It only takes a few minutes to toss together and you can easily adapt this to your own family’s preferences.

    This Mexican hamburger casserole recipe is a tasty and hearty dish that's very popular with families and kids. It's super easy to make, easy to adapt to your own tastes and it makes a perfect easy freezer meal!
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    Mexican Cheese Casserole Recipe

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    • Author: Jill Cooper

    Ingredients

    1/2 to 1 lb. hamburger
    1 cup white sauce
    1 small can of tomato sauce
    1 small can of green chilies, chopped
    8 to 16 oz. of cheese, grated*
    12 corn tortillas

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 300°.
    2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, then drain the excess grease.
    3. Stir in the white sauce, tomato sauce, and chilies, mixing well.
    4. In a casserole dish or baking pan, layer the tortillas, meat mixture, and cheese.
    5. Bake for 30-45 minutes.

    Notes

    This recipe is very flexible! Adjust the amount of beef and cheese based on what you have on hand. Cheddar works great, but you can also use Monterey Jack, a Mexican cheese blend, or any combination you like.

    This easy scalloped potatoes recipe makes a super yummy potato side dish to serve alongside your favorite ham or chicken dinner! It’s super cheesy and delicious!

    This easy scalloped potatoes recipe makes a super yummy potato side dish to serve alongside your favorite ham or chicken dinner! It’s super cheesy and delicious!
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    Easy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

    This easy scalloped potatoes recipe makes a super yummy potato side dish to serve alongside your favorite ham or chicken dinner! It’s super cheesy and delicious!
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    This easy scalloped potatoes recipe is the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort food! Made with tender, thinly sliced potatoes layered in a rich, velvety sauce, it’s the perfect side dish to complement ham, chicken, or any family dinner. With its golden, bubbly top and irresistible cheesy flavor, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal or holiday gathering!

    Ingredients

    Potatoes
    4 cups white sauce
    Salt and pepper – (You can salt and pepper to taste. I start with 1 tsp., taste and then add another tsp. if needed. The potatoes will take a lot.)
    Several slices of American cheese

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 350°.
    2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    3. Peel and thinly slice enough potatoes to fill the dish about an inch from the top.
    4. Layer slices of American cheese on top of the potatoes.
    5. Pour half of the white sauce evenly over the layers.
    6. Add salt and and another layer of American cheese.
    7. Pour the remaining white sauce over the top.
    8. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
    9. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for a few more minutes until the top is lightly golden.

    Notes

    You can use grated cheddar cheese if you prefer, but American cheese melts more smoothly and creates a creamier texture for these delicious scalloped potatoes!

    [dining]

  • Irish Corned Beef And Cabbage Recipe And Soda Bread!

    Irish Corned Beef And Cabbage Recipe And Soda Bread!

    If you’d like to serve a yummy St. Patrick’s Day themed meal, here are some traditional recipes to get you in the mood for the “wearin’ o’ the green”! This is a great week to stock up on corned beef, which you can really serve anytime so grab a couple of extras and put them in the freezer for later! Don’t forget to grab an extra cabbage to make cole slaw later in the week!

    This Irish corned beef and cabbage recipe is a traditional Irish American meal made as part of St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Enjoy it with the Irish soda bread and Blarney Stone cookies recipes also included in this post!

    Irish Corned Beef and Cabbage with Traditional St. Patrick’s Day Recipes!

    If you’d like to serve a fun and festive meal for St. Patrick’s Day, this simple Irish-inspired menu is a great way to celebrate the “wearin’ o’ the green” without spending a fortune! These classic recipes come together into a hearty, comforting meal that feels special but still uses basic ingredients you can easily find at the grocery store.

    Grocery stores almost always put corned beef on sale for St. Patrick’s Day. Even if you only plan to cook one brisket now, it’s a smart idea to grab an extra while the price is low and toss it in the freezer. Corned beef freezes well and can be used later for soups, sandwiches, or another easy family dinner.

    A traditional Irish-American St. Patrick’s Day meal usually centers around corned beef and cabbage, and for good reason. It’s hearty, delicious, and feeds a crowd. The brisket slowly simmers until tender, soaking up the seasoning while the vegetables cook right alongside it. Potatoes, carrots, onions, and cabbage make it a complete meal in one pot, which means fewer dishes and an easy dinner for busy families.

    One helpful tip when serving corned beef is to slice it across the grain. This simple step makes the meat much more tender and easier to chew. Another great trick is to save the cooking juices after dinner. If you have leftovers, dice the remaining corned beef and use those flavorful juices to make a simple corned beef soup later in the week.

    While you’re shopping for your corned beef dinner, consider grabbing an extra cabbage as well! Cabbage is inexpensive and versatile, and it’s perfect for making a quick batch of homemade coleslaw later in the week. Stocking up on seasonal sale items like this is an easy way to stretch your grocery budget.

    To round out the meal, serve your corned beef and cabbage with homemade Irish soda bread. This classic bread has a slightly crisp crust and a soft, dense interior that pairs perfectly with hearty meals. It’s wonderful served warm with butter, and any leftovers are fantastic toasted the next morning. You can even use leftover soda bread to make French toast for a special breakfast.

    And of course, no St. Patrick’s Day celebration is complete without a little something sweet! Blarney Stone cookies are a simple and festive treat made by adding green coloring to your favorite sugar cookie recipe. They’re fun for kids to help decorate and add the perfect finishing touch to your holiday meal.

    Together, these recipes create an easy, budget-friendly St. Patrick’s Day menu your family will look forward to year after year. Sláinte! 🍀

    [dining]

    Corned Beef Tips:

    • Cut corned beef across the grain for more tender slices.
    • Save juices and reduce. Dice leftover corned beef and make corned beef soup with leftovers.

    St Patrick’s Day Corned Beef Meal Plan:

    Irish Corned Beef and Cabbage
    Irish Soda Bread
    Blarney Stone Cookies

    Recipes:

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    Irish Corned Beef And Cabbage Recipe

    This Irish corned beef and cabbage recipe is a traditional Irish American meal made as part of St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Enjoy it with the Irish soda bread and Blarney Stone cookies recipes also included in this post!
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    • Author: Jill

    Ingredients

    1 (3 lb.) corned beef brisket, plus seasoning packet
    1 large onion, peeled
    10 small (red) potatoes
    15 baby carrots
    1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
    Salt and pepper (to taste)

    Instructions

    1. Place brisket, seasoning packet and onion in a large Dutch oven or pot.
    2. Cover with water 6 inches above meat.
    3. Bring to a boil and boil for 30 minutes.
    4. Reduce to medium-low or to a gentle boil. Cover and cook for 3 1/2 hours.
    5. Remove onions, cut into wedges and put back in the pot.
    6. Add carrots, cabbage and then potatoes.
    7. Cover and cook 30 more minutes or until potatoes are tender.
    8. Remove vegetables, but keep the meat in the juices until you’re ready to slice it so it won’t dry out.

    Side Sauce

    1/2 cup mayonnaise
    1/2 cup sour cream
    2 Tbsp. horseradish
    1/2-1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
    Mix all sauce ingredients together the night or day before and then serve on the side with your corned beef.
    This traditional Irish soda bread is a classic favorite bread with a firm crust, a dense texture, and a slightly sour flavor. It is great served with Irish stew. Eat leftover soda bread toasted or use for French toast.
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    Irish Soda Bread Recipe

    This traditional Irish soda bread is a classic favorite bread with a firm crust, a dense texture, and a slightly sour flavor. It is great served with Irish stew. Eat leftover soda bread toasted or use for French toast.
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    This Irish Soda Bread is great served with Irish stew. Eat leftover soda bread toasted or use for French toast.

    • Author: Jill

    Ingredients

    Units

    1/2 cup sugar
    4 cups flour
    2 tsp. baking powder
    1 tsp. baking soda
    3/4 tsp. salt
    2 cups raisins
    1 Tbsp. caraway seeds, optional*
    2 eggs, slightly beaten
    1 1/4 cup buttermilk
    1 cup sour cream

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 350°.
    2. Mix first seven ingredients.
    3. In a second bowl mix eggs, buttermilk and sour cream.
    4. Add liquid ingredients to dry, adding enough until flour is moistened.
    5. Knead 10-12 strokes. The dough will be very sticky.
    6. Place in a 9 inch cake pan. Cut a 4″ X in the top. Brush top with milk.
    7. Bake 65-75 minutes.

    Notes

    *Caraway seeds make it more authentic, but if you don’t like them or don’t have them, you can leave them out. You could also use 1 cup of raisins and one cup dried cranberries.

    Blarney Stone Cookies

    Add a couple of drops of green food coloring to the dough of your favorite sugar cookie recipe. Sprinkle with green sugar* or frost with green frosting.

    *Make green sugar by placing sugar in a container with a couple of drops of green food coloring and shaking.

  • Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe That Tastes Amazingly Delicious!

    Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe That Tastes Amazingly Delicious!

    This gluten free carrot cake recipe is moist, delicious, and incredibly easy to make! Packed with warm cinnamon, sweet carrots, and crunchy pecans, it has all the classic carrot cake flavor you love. Top it with rich cream cheese frosting and you have a dessert no one will believe is gluten free!

    This easy Gluten Free Carrot Cake recipe makes a carrot cake that is unbelievably moist, perfectly spiced, and so delicious no one will ever guess it’s gluten free! Made with simple ingredients and topped with rich cream cheese frosting, it’s an easy dessert that proves gluten-free baking can taste just as amazing as the classic!

    If you’ve been looking for a gluten free carrot cake recipe that is moist and delicious, this one is simple to make and tastes just as good as the traditional version. Carrot cake is a longtime favorite for good reason. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet carrots, and crunchy pecans creates a cake that’s rich in flavor and incredibly moist.

    One of the great things about this gluten free carrot cake recipe is how flexible it is. If you want a quick and easy option, you can start with a gluten free yellow cake mix and simply add cinnamon, shredded carrots, and pecans for that classic carrot cake flavor. It’s a fast way to make a delicious homemade dessert without a lot of extra work.

    At the same time, some people prefer to make everything from scratch. If that’s you, we also have a simple gluten free yellow cake recipe you can use instead of the mix. It’s straightforward to make and doesn’t require complicated substitutions, so you can easily turn it into a homemade gluten free carrot cake recipe from start to finish.

    The carrots help keep the cake soft and moist while adding natural sweetness. The cinnamon gives it that warm spice that makes carrot cake so good, and the pecans add just the right amount of crunch. Together, they create a cake that has all the flavor you expect from a classic carrot cake.

    Of course, the cream cheese frosting really brings it all together! It’s smooth, rich, and perfectly sweet, with chopped pecans and coconut mixed in for extra flavor and texture. Spread it over the cooled cake and you have a dessert that looks beautiful and tastes even better.

    You can bake this gluten free carrot cake recipe in a variety of ways: as a layered cake for special occasions, a 9×13 cake for an easy family dessert, or cupcakes for parties and gatherings. However you make it, this is one of those recipes people will come back to again and again — because it proves that gluten free desserts can still taste amazing.

    [gfdf]

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    Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe​

    This easy Gluten Free Carrot Cake recipe makes a carrot cake that is unbelievably moist, perfectly spiced, and so delicious no one will ever guess it’s gluten free! Made with simple ingredients and topped with rich cream cheese frosting, it’s an easy dessert that proves gluten-free baking can taste just as amazing as the classic!
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    This Gluten Free Carrot Cake recipe makes a carrot cake that is unbelievably moist, perfectly spiced, and so delicious no one will ever guess it’s gluten free! Made with simple ingredients and topped with rich cream cheese frosting, it’s an easy dessert that proves gluten-free baking can taste just as amazing as the classic!

    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    1 gluten free yellow cake mix
    Ingredients listed on the cake mix (usually eggs, oil, and water)
    1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
    1 1/2 cups shredded carrots
    1/2-1 cup crushed pecans

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    2. Grease and lightly flour your pans (with gluten-free flour).
    3. Mix the gluten free yellow cake mix according to the package directions.
    4. Add the cinnamon, shredded carrots, and crushed pecans to the yellow cake batter.
    5. Mix until combined.

    6. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

      Baking Times

      • Three 8-inch pans: 23–28 minutes

      • Two 9-inch pans: 30–35 minutes

      • 9×13-inch pan: 40–45 minutes

      • 30 cupcakes: 20–25 minutes

    7. Cool completely before frosting. Frost with Italian cream cake frosting.

     

    Italian Cream Cake Frosting Recipe

    8 oz. cream cheese
    ½ cup butter or margarine
    1 tsp. vanilla
    2 cups powdered sugar
    ¼ cup pecans, chopped
    ¼ cup coconut, shredded
     
    1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.

    2. Add vanilla.

    3. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar.

    4. Fold in pecans and coconut.
    5. Frost the cooled cake.
    6. Sprinkle additional pecans and coconut on top.
  • Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix Recipe That Actually Tastes Great!

    Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix Recipe That Actually Tastes Great!

    If you’ve been looking for a gluten free yellow cake mix recipe that actually tastes like your favorite “regular” cake recipe, you’re going to love this easy gluten free recipe! It’s soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet—without the dry or crumbly texture that so many gluten-free cakes have. This easy recipe makes a delicious cake, perfect for birthdays, cupcakes, or anytime you want a classic homemade dessert.

    Soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, this Gluten-Free Yellow Cake mix recipe makes a yellow cake that is so good no one will believe it’s gluten free. It’s an easy, classic cake recipe that actually tastes like real yellow cake—perfect for birthdays, cupcakes, or anytime you need a delicious gluten-free dessert!

    Gluten Free Cake That Actually Tastes Good!

    If you’ve ever tried pre-made gluten-free cake, you know it can be a little… disappointing. Dry, crumbly, or with that strange aftertaste that makes you wish you had just skipped dessert altogether. That’s exactly why I worked so hard to create this easy Gluten-Free Yellow Cake recipe that actually tastes like real cake!

    This recipe gives you everything you love about a classic yellow cake — a soft texture, rich buttery flavor, and just the right amount of sweetness. The best part? Most people can’t even tell it’s gluten free. It’s the kind of cake you can confidently serve at birthdays, family gatherings, or potlucks without having to warn everyone first.

    One of the keys to a good gluten-free cake mix recipe is using the right balance of ingredients so the texture turns out soft and tender instead of dry or crumbly. Using a good gluten-free all-purpose flour blend along with xanthan gum helps give the cake structure so it isn’t crumbly. The vinegar and dairy-free milk also work together to keep the cake tender and moist.

    Another thing I love about this gluten free yellow cake recipe is how versatile it is. You can bake it in a 9×13 pan for an easy sheet cake, make two or three round layers for a birthday cake, or turn it into cupcakes for parties and school events. It’s one of those reliable recipes that works for almost any occasion.

    And of course, you can dress up this gluten free yellow cake any way you like. It’s delicious topped with rich chocolate frosting, classic vanilla buttercream, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Add sprinkles for birthdays or keep it simple for an everyday dessert.

    Whether you’re gluten free because of allergies, sensitivities, or you’re baking for someone who is, it’s always exciting to find a recipe that doesn’t feel like a compromise. This cake is soft, fluffy, and full of flavor — proof that gluten-free baking can still be absolutely delicious.

    Once you try it, this will definitely become your go-to gluten-free cake recipe. Enjoy!

    This Gluten Free Yellow Cake Recipe is From My Cookbook:

    [gfdf]

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    Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix Recipe

    Soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, this Gluten-Free Yellow Cake mix recipe makes a yellow cake that is so good no one will believe it’s gluten free. It’s an easy, classic cake recipe that actually tastes like real yellow cake—perfect for birthdays, cupcakes, or anytime you need a delicious gluten-free dessert!
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    Soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, this Gluten-Free Yellow Cake mix recipe makes a yellow cake that is so good no one will believe it’s gluten free. It’s an easy, classic cake recipe that actually tastes like real yellow cake—perfect for birthdays, cupcakes, or anytime you need a delicious gluten-free dessert!

    • Author: Tawra Kellam
    • Yield: Serves 18

    Ingredients

    3/4 cup butter flavored shortening, butter, or dairy free butter (if you’re dairy free), softened
    1 1/2 cups sugar
    2 1/2 tsp. vanilla
    3 eggs
    1 1/3 cups milk (or dairy free milk if you’re dairy free) – Rice or soy milk work well.
    1 tsp. vinegar
    1/2 tsp. salt
    3 cups gluten free all purpose flour
    1 tsp. xanthan gum (if it is not already included in your gluten free flour)
    3 tsp. baking powder

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
    2. In a large bowl, beat the shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
    3. Add the vanilla. Beat in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
    4. Add the milk and vinegar and beat well.
    5. Add the salt, flour, xanthan gum, and baking powder; mix well.
    6. Pour the batter into a well-greased pan floured with gluten-free flour.

    7. Bake at 350°F until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

      Baking Times

      • Three 8-inch pans: 23–28 minutes

      • Two 9-inch pans: 30–35 minutes

      • 9×13-inch pan: 40–45 minutes

      • 30 cupcakes: 20–25 minutes

    8. Cool completely before frosting. Frost with chocolate frosting.
  • How To Make Ghee – Easy Dairy Free Clarified Butter Recipe!

    How To Make Ghee – Easy Dairy Free Clarified Butter Recipe!

    Making your own dairy free clarified butter at home is easier than you might think — and once you learn how to make ghee and see how simple it is, you will never want to buy it again! This guide walks you through creating rich, golden, naturally dairy-free ghee with simple techniques for both stovetop and Instant Pot preparation.

    Learn how to make ghee at home with just one ingredient and a simple simmering method that transforms butter into rich, golden clarified butter. This easy step-by-step guide shows you how to make nutty, shelf-stable, naturally dairy-free ghee every time — with both stovetop and Instant Pot options.

    How to Make Ghee (Super Easy & Budget-Friendly!)

    If you’ve ever wondered how to make ghee at home, you’re going to love how simple and affordable it is. This easy method will save you money, stretch your grocery budget, and give you a delicious butter alternative that works beautifully for dairy-free cooking.

    With just one ingredient — butter — you can create rich, golden dairy-free ghee that’s perfect for cooking, baking, and adding incredible flavor to everyday meals. Whether you want a classic mild version, a deep caramelized “restaurant-style” ghee, or an easy hands-off Instant Pot method, I’ll walk you through exactly how to get it right every time.

    What Is Ghee Butter or Clarified Butter?

    Before I share the ghee recipe, let’s answer the big question: what is ghee butter?

    Ghee is a type of clarified butter. It starts with regular butter, but during cooking, the milk solids and water are removed. What’s left is pure butterfat. Because the milk proteins are separated out, many people with dairy sensitivities can tolerate ghee—even though it originally comes from butter.

    That’s why it’s often considered “dairy-free” for practical purposes. The proteins that trigger reactions are removed, leaving a rich, golden fat that’s perfect for cooking, baking, and spreading.

    Ghee doesn’t burn like butter: Removing the milk proteins also means that the ghee does not burn as easily as butter when used for cooking.

    Why Make Ghee at Home?

    • ✔ Saves money
    • ✔ No additives or preservatives
    • ✔ Perfect for dairy-sensitive diets
    • ✔ Higher smoke point than butter
    • ✔ Stores well at room temperature

    Making ghee at home is one of the easiest ways to cut grocery costs—especially if you cook a lot. Once you learn how to make ghee, you’ll see just how effortless it is.

    Instead of paying premium prices for specialty dairy-free products, you can turn regular butter into this versatile kitchen staple in 30-45 minutes.

    Try this homemade ghee recipe today and enjoy a simple, natural butter alternative that fits your budget and your dairy free diet!

    [gfdf]

    Print

    How To Make Ghee – Easy Clarified Butter Recipe

    Learn how to make ghee at home with just one ingredient and a simple simmering method that transforms butter into rich, golden clarified butter. This easy step-by-step guide shows you how to make nutty, shelf-stable, naturally dairy-free ghee every time — with both stovetop and Instant Pot options.
    Print Recipe

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    No reviews

    Learn how to make ghee at home with just one ingredient and a simple simmering method that transforms butter into rich, golden clarified butter. This easy step-by-step guide shows you how to make nutty, shelf-stable, naturally dairy-free ghee every time — with both stovetop and Instant Pot options.

    • Author: Tawra Kellam
    • Yield: 12–14 cups of ghee

    Ingredients

    4 pounds (1.8 kg) butter (salted or unsalted)

    Instructions

    1. Melt the Butter

      Place all 4 pounds of butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
      Heat over low to medium-low heat, allowing it to melt slowly and evenly.

    2. Simmer Gently

      Once melted, the butter will begin to bubble and foam. Keep the heat low — you want a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil.

      As it cooks, you’ll notice:

      • White foam forming on top

      • Crackling sounds (this is the water evaporating)

      • Milk solids separating and sinking to the bottom

      Avoid stirring too much. You may skim off excess foam if desired, but it isn’t required.

    3. 3. Watch for the Color Change (30–45 Minutes Total)

      After about 30–45 minutes:

      • The bubbling will quiet down

      • Most of the foam will disappear

      • The liquid will turn clear, golden, and fragrant

      • Milk solids on the bottom will become light brown (toasty — not dark brown)

      The ghee should smell rich and nutty.

      ⚠️ If the milk solids begin turning dark brown quickly, reduce the heat immediately to prevent burning.

    4. Strain

      Turn off the heat and let the ghee sit for 5 minutes.

      Carefully strain through cheesecloth (or a fine mesh strainer lined with a coffee filter) into clean, dry jars. Leave the browned milk solids behind.

      Allow to cool completely before sealing.

    Notes

    Pro Tips:

    • Use the leftover browned milk solids in rice, oatmeal, or baked goods. (Note: the solids are not dairy-free.)
    • For a deeper, nuttier flavor, allow the solids to brown slightly more — but watch closely to avoid burning.
    • A heavy-bottomed pot is essential when making large batches to prevent scorching.
    • The recipe calls for 4 pounds of butter, but you can use as much or as little as you like.

     

    Variations:

    Browned, Caramelized “Restaurant-Style” Ghee

    (Deeper, nuttier, more aromatic)

    This version takes ghee slightly beyond standard clarification, allowing the milk solids to brown further. The result is a toasted hazelnut aroma similar to classic French brown butter (beurre noisette).

    Ingredients

    • 4 lbs (1.8 kg) butter

     

    Instructions

    1. Melt Slowly

    Place butter in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven.
    Heat over medium-low until completely melted.

     

    2. Controlled Simmer (20–30 Minutes)

    Maintain a steady, gentle simmer — not a boil.

    You’ll notice:

    • Vigorous bubbling (water evaporating)

    • Thick foam forming on top

    • Steady crackling sounds

    Stir gently every few minutes to prevent sticking or scorching.

     

    3. The Browning Phase (Key Step)

    As bubbling reduces and the foam thins:

    • Milk solids on the bottom shift from golden → amber → light brown

    • The aroma changes from buttery → nutty → toasted caramel

    For true restaurant-style depth:

    • Allow solids to reach medium brown (similar to toasted almonds)

    • The liquid should be deep amber, not pale gold

    Total time: 35–50 minutes

    ⚠️ If you detect sharp or burnt aromas, remove from heat immediately.

     

    4. Rest & Strain

    Turn off heat and let rest 5–7 minutes (this slightly intensifies flavor).
    Strain through cheesecloth into clean jars.

    Do not scrape the bottom of the pot — leave darker solids behind to prevent bitterness.

     

    Flavor Profile

    • Toasted hazelnut

    • Caramelized butter

    • Slightly deeper savory finish

    Excellent for:

    • Drizzling over rice or roasted vegetables

    • Finishing steaks

    • Brushing over naan or sourdough

     
     

    Instant Pot Ghee (Hands-Off Method)

     

    This is the easiest method for large batches like 4 pounds. It provides consistent heat with minimal supervision.

    Ingredients

    • 4 lbs unsalted butter

     

    Instructions

    1. Add Butter

    Place all butter into the Instant Pot insert.

     
     

    2. Start Sauté Mode

    • Select Sauté – Normal

    • Allow butter to melt completely

    • Once bubbling begins, switch to Sauté – Less

    Keep the lid off throughout the process.

     

    3. Simmer (25–40 Minutes)

    The butter will:

    • Foam heavily

    • Bubble loudly

    • Gradually quiet as moisture evaporates

    It’s ready when:

    • Bubbling slows significantly

    • Foam thins

    • Bottom solids turn golden brown

    • Liquid becomes clear and aromatic

    For deeper caramelized flavor, leave on Sauté – Less an additional 5–8 minutes to deepen the color.

     
     

    4. Turn Off & Strain

    Press Cancel.
    Let settle for 5 minutes.
    Strain carefully into clean jars, leaving solids behind.

     

    ⏱ Timing Comparison (4-Pound Batch)

    Stovetop – Classic Ghee

    • Time: 30–45 minutes

    • Flavor: Mild, clean, lightly nutty

    • Attention Needed: Moderate — occasional monitoring and light skimming

    Stovetop – Restaurant-Style Ghee

    • Time: 40–50 minutes

    • Flavor: Deep, toasted, caramelized

    • Attention Needed: Higher — careful monitoring during browning phase

    Instant Pot Method

    • Time: 25–40 minutes

    • Flavor: Medium to deep, depending on extra simmer time

    • Attention Needed: Low — largely hands-off once simmering begins

  • Gluten Free Bread Recipe – Easy Recipe Actually Tastes Good!

    Gluten Free Bread Recipe – Easy Recipe Actually Tastes Good!

    Here is the best gluten free bread recipe you will ever eat! It is super soft, makes great toast and my kids who don’t need to eat gluten free like it so much better than regular bread! If you miss foods like sandwiches, French toast and croutons, you must try this recipe! (more…)

  • Easy Homemade Popcorn Balls Recipe for Holidays & Parties!

    Easy Homemade Popcorn Balls Recipe for Holidays & Parties!

    Here’s an easy popcorn balls recipe you can dress up for just about any holiday! They’re inexpensive, delicious, and simple enough to make with kids — plus you can customize them with fun mix-ins to match the season.

    Soft, sweet, and perfectly chewy, this easy homemade popcorn balls recipe makes a treat that tastes just like the ones you remember. Make them classic or turn them into caramel-style popcorn balls with one simple upgrade!

    Homemade Popcorn Balls Recipe

    Everyone loves popcorn balls, especially the soft, chewy kind made with marshmallows. If you don’t feel like rolling them into balls, you can press the mixture into a pan (just like Rice Krispie treats) and cut it into squares instead — same great taste, less effort.

    Popcorn balls aren’t just for Halloween! You can easily turn them into treats for Christmas, Easter, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or even Thanksgiving by changing the colors or mix-ins. (See the variations below.)

    Popcorn balls are great fun for birthday parties, hay rides, and snacks for the kids!

    Popcorn balls are also a great way to use up leftover or clearance candy after Halloween and other holidays.

     

    Easy Popcorn Ball Variations (Add-Ins)

    Mix in any of these to match the holiday or occasion:

    • Red Hots – Valentine’s Day or the 4th of July
    • Spice drops – Christmas or winter parties
    • Crushed candy canes – Christmas
    • Jelly beans – Easter
    • Peanuts – especially good for caramel-style popcorn
    • Candy corn – Halloween
    • Sprinkles ( birthday parties or sprinkles that match the colors of the different holidays)
    • M&M’s – any time
    • Or any other favorite candy you have on hand
    Print

    Homemade Popcorn Balls Recipe

    Soft, sweet, and perfectly chewy, this easy homemade popcorn balls recipe makes a treat that tastes just like the ones you remember. Make them classic or turn them into caramel-style popcorn balls with one simple upgrade!
    Print Recipe

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    Soft, sweet, and perfectly chewy, this easy homemade popcorn balls recipe makes a treat that tastes just like the ones you remember. Make them classic or turn them into caramel-style popcorn balls with one simple upgrade!

    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    6 Tbsp. butter
    5 cups marshmallows
    2 qts. popped popcorn*

    Optional (for caramel-style flavor):
    1/2 cup brown sugar
    1/2 tsp vanilla

    Instructions

    1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. (If making the caramel-style version, add the brown sugar now and stir until dissolved.)
    2. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
    3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, if using.
    4. Add the popped popcorn (and any optional candies or nuts). Gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
    5. Butter your hands well. Scoop and shape the mixture into balls, or press it into a well-buttered 9×13-inch pan.
    6. Place popcorn balls on wax or parchment paper and let cool until set.
    7. Store in an airtight container or wrap individually in plastic wrap.

    Notes

    • For a caramel-corn flavor, add ½ cup brown sugar + ½ tsp vanilla when melting the butter.
    • To remove unpopped kernels, dump the popcorn onto a clean surface first. Scoop it back into the bowl by handfuls, leaving the unpopped “old maids” behind.
    • These popcorn balls are great for parties, lunchbox treats, or holiday gifting.
     
    * Popcorn guide:
    ¼ cup unpopped kernels = about 2 quarts popped popcorn.
  • Easy Gluten Free Chex Mix Recipe That Everyone Loves!

    Easy Gluten Free Chex Mix Recipe That Everyone Loves!

    This homemade gluten free Chex mix recipe is super easy to make and great for holiday get togethers and our family and kids LOVE it! We love to make it at Christmas and Thanksgiving!

    This homemade gluten free Chex mix recipe is super easy to make and great for holiday get togethers! We love to make it at Christmas and Thanksgiving!

    We LOVE Chex Mix at our house! We make several big batches of this Chex mix recipe at Christmas every year and each time it goes…quickly! We do leave out the nuts because no one in our family like nuts but mom and me.

    This homemade Chex mix is best when it is baked in the oven. There is just something about baking that really brings out the flavor in our opinion.

    If you use generic ingredients or a different brand than I’ve included, you should read the ingredients if you’re trying to keep it gluten free.

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    Gluten Free Chex Mix Recipe

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    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    5 from 2 reviews

    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    3 1/2 cups Rice Chex (I use generic)
    3 1/2 cups Corn Chex (I use generic)
    2 cups gluten-free O’s cereal (I use Cheerios)
    1 cup gluten-free peanuts (optional)
    6 Tbsp. butter or margarine, melted (You may use ghee if you’re dairy free.)
    1/4 cup gluten free Worcestershire sauce (Lea & Perrins)
    2 tsp. seasoned salt
    1/2 tsp. garlic powder
    1/2 tsp. onion powder
    1 cup bite-sized gluten free pretzels (Synder’s or Glutino)
    1 cup gluten free bagel chips (Glutino)

    Instructions

    To Microwave:
    1. Mix the cereals, nuts, pretzels and bagel chips in a large microwavable bowl. Set aside.
    2. In a small microwavable bowl, microwave the butter, uncovered, on high about 40 seconds or until melted.
    3. Stir in seasonings.
    4. Pour over the cereal mixture. Stir until evenly coated.
    5. Microwave the Chex mix, uncovered, on high 5 to 6 minutes, thoroughly stirring every 2 minutes.
    6. Spread on paper towels to cool. Store in airtight container.
    To Bake In The Oven:
    1. Preheat the oven to 250°.
    2. Put the cereal and seasoning mixture into an ungreased roasting pan.
    3. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
    4. Spread on paper towels to cool for about 15 minutes.

    Chex Mix Tips:

    This homemade Chex mix recipe is an easy make ahead recipe that can be stored 2-3 weeks. In our house, it doesn’t last that long but it can be done. :-)

    Substitutions:  You can mix and match to suit your taste—just use a total of 9 cups of cereal. Honey Nut Cheerios adds a  touch of sweetness.  You can add more pretzels or bagel chips and, of course, if you aren’t gluten free, use any “regular” items.

    Other Add Ins For Homemade Chex Mix:

    • oyster crackers
    • cheese crackers (like Cheez-Its)
    • cashews
    • almonds
    • sunflower seeds
    • Ranch Seasoning Packet (instead of seasonings)
    • a couple of dashes hot sauce
    • or leave out the seasonings and add:
      • drizzled chocolate or caramel
      • cinnamon and sugar
      • drizzle buttercream frosting that has been thinned with some milk

    This easy homemade gluten free Chex mix recipe is modified from the Chex mix recipe in volume 2 of our cookbook. We substituted the gluten ingredients for ones not containing gluten.

    For more easy gluten free recipes, check out our gluten free dairy free cookbook:

    [gfdf]

  • Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe – Green Salad

    Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe – Green Salad

    This easy broccoli salad recipe is a tasty green salad that is perfect for Christmas or other holidays and is also great on warm summer days! This broccoli salad is one of my family’s favorite dishes at Christmas and Thanksgiving and it’s a great healthy side dish.

    This easy broccoli salad recipe is a tasty green salad that is perfect for Christmas or other holidays and is also great on warm summer days! This broccoli salad is one of my family's favorite dishes at Christmas and Thanksgiving and it’s a great healthy side dish.

    You can easily prepare this broccoli salad recipe ahead of time, so that you only have to add the avocado and the dressing at the last minute and serve. And you can also adjust the recipe to your own taste if you like.

    Print

    Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe – Green Salad

    This easy broccoli salad recipe is a tasty green salad that is perfect for Christmas or other holidays and is also great on warm summer days! This broccoli salad is one of my family's favorite dishes at Christmas and Thanksgiving and it’s a great healthy side dish.
    Print Recipe

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    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    4 cups broccoli, cut into pieces
    4 cups cauliflower, cut into pieces
    2 cups celery, sliced
    1/2 cup green olives, sliced
    1 avocado, cut into small cubes
    1/4 to 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
    Italian dressing

    Instructions

    1. Put everything into a bowl except the dressing.
    2. Sprinkle with Italian dressing, to taste.

    Notes

    If you like, you can cut everything the day before you need it except the avocado and the dressing. Then you can add these items just before serving.

    Note from Tawra: This is probably my most FAVORITE green salad! Yummy!

    [dining]

  • Easy Cream Cheese Mints Recipe – Delicious Wedding Style Party Mints!

    Easy Cream Cheese Mints Recipe – Delicious Wedding Style Party Mints!

    This easy cream cheese mints recipe​ makes soft, wedding-style mints perfect for weddings, Christmas, and other holidays! These mints are super easy to make and your family and friends will love them!

    Looking for a sweet treat that’s as budget-friendly as it is impressive? This easy cream cheese mints recipe creates soft, melt-in-your-mouth party mints perfect for weddings, baby showers, bridal showers, and any special occasion! These elegant little bites are sure to delight your guests without breaking the bank.

    Not only are these mints quick and simple to make, but they’re also a great way to add a personal, homemade touch to your event. Plus, making them yourself is far more affordable than buying pre-made treats.

    If you’re planning a wedding or special event, be sure to explore our Cheap Wedding Ideas series, where we share practical tips to cut costs while creating a memorable day. From DIY décor to budget-savvy catering ideas, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to help you save money without sacrificing style.

    This cream cheese mints recipe, known as “Molded Mints” in our Dining On A Dime Cookbook, Volume 1, is just one of the many easy, delicious, and affordable recipes included in the book. With step-by-step instructions, you’ll be whipping up these crowd-pleasing mints in no time!

    Whether you’re hosting a wedding, celebrating the holidays, or throwing a party “just because,” this easy cream cheese mints recipe is the perfect addition to your menu. Give it a try, and watch your guests come back for seconds (and maybe even thirds)!

    This Cream Cheese Mints Recipe is called Molded Mints in our Dining On A Dime Cookbook, Volume 1.

    [dining]

    Print

    Easy Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

    This easy cream cheese mints recipe​ makes soft, wedding-style mints perfect for weddings, Christmas, and other holidays! These mints are super easy to make and your family and friends will love them!
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    This easy cream cheese mints recipe​ makes soft, wedding-style mints perfect for weddings, Christmas, and other holidays! These mints are super easy to make and your family and friends will love them!

    • Author: Tawra Kellam
    • Yield: Makes 100 one inch mints

    Ingredients

    2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
    1 (3 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
    1 tsp. peppermint flavoring
    Food coloring
    Sugar

    Instructions

    1. Mix the powdered sugar, cream cheese, peppermint flavoring, and food coloring in a mixing bowl.
    2. Knead several times.
    3. When the dough is smooth, roll it into a ball.
    4. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill 2 hours.
    5. Roll into small balls.
    6. Dip each ball into the sugar and press into the mold. If the mints stick to the mold, knead in more powdered sugar.
    7. Remove from the mold and let dry 1/2 hour.
    8. Store in an airtight container.

    These mints can be frozen or refrigerated.

    Notes

    • This is a great mint for weddings. It is very classy when molded into leaves or shells.
    • You can use color to match the bride’s wedding colors.
    • If the mints stick to the mold, knead in more powdered sugar.
    • You can buy candy molds in the craft section at Wal Mart, or a cake decorating shop. Use anything you like – hearts, leaves, and shells all work well.
    Looking for a delicious sugar-free treat? This easy sugar free cream cheese mints recipe delivers soft, melt-in-your-mouth wedding-style mints that are perfect for weddings, Christmas, and any holiday celebration! Quick to make and irresistibly tasty, these mints will be a hit with family and friends!
    Print

    Sugar Free Cream Cheese Mints Recipe

    Looking for a delicious sugar-free treat? This easy sugar free cream cheese mints recipe delivers soft, melt-in-your-mouth wedding-style mints that are perfect for weddings, Christmas, and any holiday celebration! Quick to make and irresistibly tasty, these mints will be a hit with family and friends!
    Print Recipe

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    No reviews

    Looking for a delicious sugar-free treat? This easy sugar free cream cheese mints recipe delivers soft, melt-in-your-mouth wedding-style mints that are perfect for weddings, Christmas, and any holiday celebration! Quick to make and irresistibly tasty, these mints will be a hit with family and friends!

    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese softened
    2 Tbsp. butter
    2 1/2 cups powdered sugar free sweetener
    1 tsp. peppermint extract
    Food coloring, optional

    Instructions

    1. Mix the first 4 ingredients.
    2. Beat ingredients together with a mixer. It should be a thick, but moldable dough consistency. If it is too dry, you can add a tablespoon of milk.
    3. If desired, add food coloring. For more than one color, divide the dough into equal parts in separate bowls.
    4. Mix the food color into the dough with a mixer. If using multiple colors, rinse the beaters between colors.
    5. When mixed, roll into small balls. If the dough is too soft to roll, refrigerate for a few minutes before rolling to harden slightly.
    6. Lay each ball on a baking sheet and press with a fork to decorate, OR pipe into peppermint drops.
    7. Store in an airtight container.

     

    These mints can be frozen or refrigerated.

    From A Reader:

    Kristina Writes: I wanted to add a tip to your cream cheese mints recipe. If you don’t have candy molds for your mints, you can roll them into balls and use an initial imprint stamp with the first initial of the bride and groom’s last name. Just push the stamp down in the center of the mint and use even pressure. They look like designer mints. If you powder the mints with more sugar, do so before you stamp the mint. Thanks for letting me put in my two cents!

    Here are some other things you might like:

    Cheap Wedding Ideas And Tips

    Tips and Recipes To Save Money On Wedding Food

    Wedding Tips From Readers

    This post contains affiliate links. When you order something from Amazon with the above links, a small portion goes to us at no cost to you.

  • Red Jello Salad Recipe – A Tasty Family Holiday Favorite!

    Red Jello Salad Recipe – A Tasty Family Holiday Favorite!

    This homemade Red Jello Salad recipe is easy to make and is very popular with the kids and our entire family. It is one of the recipes we almost always prepare for major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. We hope you enjoy it!

    This red jello salad recipe is a quick and easy dessert that the entire family will love! Our family loves this all the time, but especially at Christmas! It adds a beautiful red color to the Christmas table and children and men seem to really love it.
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    Red Jello Salad Recipe

    This red jello salad recipe is a quick and easy dessert that the entire family will love! Our family loves this all the time, but especially at Christmas! It adds a beautiful red color to the Christmas table and children and men seem to really love it.
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    No reviews

    This easy red jello salad recipe is a family favorite and a staple for Christmas! The family says that we can’t celebrate Christmas without the Red Jello Salad! ;-) It adds a beautiful red color to the Christmas table and children and men seem to really love it.

    • Author: Jill Cooper

    Ingredients

    1/2 cup boiling water
    1 small package cherry Jello
    1/4 to 1/2 cup red hot candies
    1 1/2 cups applesauce

    Instructions

    1. Dissolve Jello and candies in boiling water. I usually do this in a small saucepan so I can keep it on low heat and keep it warm while dissolving the candies.
    2. When the Jello and candies are mostly dissolved, add the applesauce.
    3. Chill until set.

    [dining]

  • 3 Ingredient Cheese Ball Recipe – David’s Favorite Cheese Dip

    3 Ingredient Cheese Ball Recipe – David’s Favorite Cheese Dip

    This 3 Ingredient Easy Cheese Ball Recipe makes a tasty cheese dip and is our family’s favorite dip for the holidays! This is a Christmas favorite of my son’s but it can be served at New Year’s or any time you want a quick and easy dip.

    This 3 Ingredient Easy Cheese Ball Recipe makes a tasty cheese dip and is our family's favorite dip for the holidays! This is a Christmas favorite of my son's but it can be served at New Year's or any time you want a quick and easy dip.
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    3 Ingredient Cheese Ball Recipe – David’s Favorite Cheese Dip

    This 3 Ingredient Easy Cheese Ball Recipe makes a tasty cheese dip and is our family's favorite dip for the holidays! This is a Christmas favorite of my son's but it can be served at New Year's or any time you want a quick and easy dip.
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    This 3-Ingredient Easy Cheese Ball Recipe is a holiday favorite in our family! Made with tangy cheese, cream cheese, and optional nuts, it’s the perfect quick and delicious dip for Christmas, New Year’s, or any occasion. Whip it up in minutes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer everyone will love!

    • Author: Jill Cooper

    Ingredients

    1 jar Kraft Old English cheese spread
    1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
    1/4 cup nuts, chopped

    Instructions

    1. Mix ingredients.
    2. Roll into a ball.
    3. Wrap in plastic wrap. (Most of the time we just mix it and serve in a bowl without wrapping it.)
    4. Serve with chips or crackers.

    Notes

    We leave the nuts out because no one around here but mom, my sister in law and I would eat it.

    -Tawra

    [dining]

     

  • 10 Easy Christmas Party Food Ideas

    10 Easy Christmas Party Food Ideas

    Try these easy party food ideas and recipes, including tips for how to lay out a buffet dinner table so everyone doesn’t get piled on top of each other.

    Try these easy party food ideas and recipes, including tips for how to lay out a buffet dinner table so everyone doesn't get piled on top of each other.

    10 Easy Christmas Party Food Ideas

    There will be a lot of us having buffet dinners and parties before and on Christmas and many of us will be looking for easy party food ideas.

    Have you ever been to a dinner or party where the buffet was just not laid out right? It took forever for everyone to get through the line and trying to juggle everything was a tremendous challenge.

    Here is the proper way to lay out your party food for a buffet dinner so that things go quickly and easily for you and your guests.

    If you have room, set the table up so that people can walk down both sides of the table and serve themselves. Regardless of whether they walk down one side or both sides, make sure that at the end of the table it is easy for them to go on to the room where they will be sitting or mingling. Try to arrange it so they don’t have to push their way back through the other people who are trying to make their way down the table to serve themselves.

    This is the order in which to set things on the table:

    • Plates, meats, side dishes, relish dishes, salads, desserts, napkin, silverware and then drinks.Some people put the drinks first. This is a no-no because then everyone has to juggle a plate and a glass while trying to serve himself. This is why it is better to put the salads and desserts at the end if you are using salad or dessert plates too.
    • If at all possible, put the drinks and desserts at a separate table.This helps reduce the congestion. Guests can then set their plates down after they are filled and go back to get their drinks without having to stand in line again. You’ll also avoid problems with guests trying to hold two plates or a drink and a plate.
    • If it is going to be an all day get-together, you can wait and put the desserts out a little later with a pot of coffee and some tea to make things easier.

    Party Food Recipes:

    Here are some party food ideas including “red and green” recipes to use for those holiday parties or Christmas dinners.

    These first two are our favorite salads that we serve every year with Christmas dinner. It just wouldn’t be Christmas without them. Our readers love them too, requesting them again every year.

    This red jello salad recipe is a quick and easy dessert that the entire family will love! Our family loves this all the time, but especially at Christmas! It adds a beautiful red color to the Christmas table and children and men seem to really love it.
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    Red Jello Salad Recipe

    This red jello salad recipe is a quick and easy dessert that the entire family will love! Our family loves this all the time, but especially at Christmas! It adds a beautiful red color to the Christmas table and children and men seem to really love it.
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    This easy red jello salad recipe is a family favorite and a staple for Christmas! The family says that we can’t celebrate Christmas without the Red Jello Salad! ;-) It adds a beautiful red color to the Christmas table and children and men seem to really love it.

    • Author: Jill Cooper

    Ingredients

    1/2 cup boiling water
    1 small package cherry Jello
    1/4 to 1/2 cup red hot candies
    1 1/2 cups applesauce

    Instructions

    1. Dissolve Jello and candies in boiling water. I usually do this in a small saucepan so I can keep it on low heat and keep it warm while dissolving the candies.
    2. When the Jello and candies are mostly dissolved, add the applesauce.
    3. Chill until set.

    Here is a different and delicious side dish for Christmas that gives you a good variety of veggies for dinner while keeping the Christmas color scheme.

    This easy broccoli salad recipe is a tasty green salad that is perfect for Christmas or other holidays and is also great on warm summer days! This broccoli salad is one of my family's favorite dishes at Christmas and Thanksgiving and it’s a great healthy side dish.
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    Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe – Green Salad

    This easy broccoli salad recipe is a tasty green salad that is perfect for Christmas or other holidays and is also great on warm summer days! This broccoli salad is one of my family's favorite dishes at Christmas and Thanksgiving and it’s a great healthy side dish.
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    • Author: Tawra Kellam

    Ingredients

    4 cups broccoli, cut into pieces
    4 cups cauliflower, cut into pieces
    2 cups celery, sliced
    1/2 cup green olives, sliced
    1 avocado, cut into small cubes
    1/4 to 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
    Italian dressing

    Instructions

    1. Put everything into a bowl except the dressing.
    2. Sprinkle with Italian dressing, to taste.

    Notes

    If you like, you can cut everything the day before you need it except the avocado and the dressing. Then you can add these items just before serving.

    Note from Tawra: This is probably my most FAVORITE green salad! Yummy!

     Christmas Veggies

    Take some of your favorite veggies like broccoli, green beans or cauliflower and cook them your favorite way. Add chopped green and red peppers.Toss it all with Italian dressing and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

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    Cranberry Rice Salad Recipe

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    Ingredients

    4 cups wild rice, cooked
    1 (8 oz.) can sliced water chestnuts, drained
    1/2 cup each of the following:
    celery, sliced
    green peppers, chopped
    frozen peas, thawed
    dried cranberries
    1/4 cup green onions, sliced

    Dressing:

    1/3 cup vinegar
    1/3 cup cranberry juice
    2 tsp. olive oil
    1/2 tsp. dried basil
    1 tsp. sugar
    salt and pepper

    Instructions

    1. Mix all the salad ingredients in a large bowl.
    2. Mix the dressing ingredients into a small bowl; pour over the salad.
    3. Refrigerate overnight.
    4. Sprinkle with pecans just before serving.
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    Red or Green Dessert Recipe

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    Ingredients

    1 (3 oz.) package lime Jello
    2 (6 oz.) package key lime pie yogurt
    1 small container of whipped topping

    Instructions

    1. Combine the Jello powder and yogurt.
    2. Fold in whipped topping.
    3. Chill for 20 minutes.

     

    Notes

    • You could also pour this into a graham cracker crust.
    • Choose other flavors if you want. For example strawberry or cherry Jello with strawberry or cherry yogurt. In the summer months, use orange flavored ingredients.

    For more easy party food ideas and recipes, check out volume 1 of our cookbook:

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  • Easy Homemade Salsa Recipe

    Easy Homemade Salsa Recipe

    This fresh homemade salsa recipe makes a tasty Mexican salsa perfect served with Mexican food or eaten with chips or as a salad topping! My husband and I have enjoyed this recipe our entire married life and it is delicious!

    Save money with this delicious easy homemade salsa recipe! Fresh salsa is a tasty way to use all of those tomatoes, onions and peppers from your garden and this recipe makes it super easy!

    Save money with this delicious and easy homemade salsa recipe! Fresh salsa is a tasty way to use all of those tomatoes, onions, and peppers from your garden!

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    Easy Homemade Salsa Recipe

    Save money with this delicious easy homemade salsa recipe! Fresh salsa is a tasty way to use all of those tomatoes, onions and peppers from your garden and this recipe makes it super easy!
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    • Author: Tawra Kellam
    • Yield: 3 pints

    Ingredients

    4 cups tomatoes (canned with juice may also be used
    1 green pepper, chopped
    1 large onion, diced
    2 to 3 Tbsp. lime juice (to taste)
    1/4 tsp. garlic powder
    2 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped
    1 small, fresh jalapeno pepper, minced
    salt and pepper

    Instructions

    1. Cook all the ingredients in a large saucepan on medium heat for 20 minutes.
    2. Pour into hot, sterile quart jars and seal.
    3. Process in a pressure canner for 25 minutes. We use salsa frequently enough that we don’t have to can it. If you don’t can it, store it in the refrigerator.

    For more quick and easy recipes like this easy homemade salsa recipe, check out our cookbooks!

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