This easy coconut cake recipe is one of the most delicious desserts you’ll ever make—and it only takes five ingredients! Moist cake, sweet condensed milk, coconut, and whipped topping come together to create a creamy tropical treat that disappears fast.
Easy Coconut Cake Recipe (Only 5 Ingredients!)
This easy coconut cake recipe is one of my favorite quick desserts! It’s a simple coconut poke cake made with sweetened condensed milk and topped with coconut and whipped topping for a light, creamy finish.
With just five ingredients, this cake is easy to make quickly but tastes like something much more complicated. The sweet coconut flavor and optional pineapple give it a delicious tropical twist.
Because it’s served cold, this coconut cake is perfect for warm summer days, pool parties, picnics, potlucks, or family dinners any time of year.
If you love quick, budget-friendly desserts like this easy coconut cake, be sure to check out more recipes in our Dining on a Dime Cookbooks.
How to Make Coconut Cake
This coconut cake starts with a boxed cake mix, which keeps it simple and foolproof, even while making a gourmet style cake!
Bake the cake mix according to the package directions in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, poke holes all over the cake using a fork or straw.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake so it soaks into the holes.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour so it can absorb the milk and firm up.
While the cake chills, mix the whipped topping, coconut, and optional pineapple together.
Spread the topping over the chilled cake.
Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Serve cold and enjoy! (Full recipe below.)
Ingredients for Coconut Cake
Yellow or White Cake Mix Either works well. A white cake mix gives a lighter, more delicate texture, while a yellow cake mix tends to be slightly richer and more moist because it contains egg yolks.
Sweetened Condensed Milk Do not confuse this with evaporated milk. Sweetened condensed milk is thick and sweet and is essential for the creamy texture of this poke cake.
Whipped Topping Use one 8-ounce container of whipped topping.
Flaked Coconut One 8-ounce package of sweetened flaked coconut adds great flavor and texture.
Crushed Pineapple (Optional) If you want a tropical twist, add one 15-ounce can of crushed pineapple.
How to Make a Pineapple Coconut Cake
If you love pineapple and coconut together, simply add the optional crushed pineapple to the whipped topping mixture.
This turns the recipe into a delicious pineapple coconut cake with even more tropical flavor.
Tips to Make the Best Coconut Cake with Cake Mix
One reason I love this recipe is how easy it is. Still, a few simple tips will help your cake turn out perfectly every time.
Use clean bowls and utensils Greasy residue can affect how well the batter mixes.
Beat the batter as directed Most cake mixes recommend 30 seconds on medium and 2 minutes on high. Skipping this step can result in a dense cake.
Use baking spray with flour This is the easiest way to prevent sticking and saves time when preparing your pan.
How to Grease and Flour the Pan
If you don’t have baking spray, you can easily grease and flour the pan yourself.
Spread a thin layer of shortening over the pan using a paper towel.
Add about ¼ cup flour to the pan.
Shake the pan to coat the bottom and sides evenly.
Turn the pan upside down over the sink and tap it to remove excess flour.
Storing Leftover Coconut Cake
Does Coconut Cake Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes. Because this cake contains sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping, it should always be kept refrigerated.
Serve it cold and store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator.
Can This Cake Be Frozen?
Yes, this cake freezes well, just like any other slice of cake.
For best results:
Freeze slices on a cookie sheet first until firm.
Wrap each slice in parchment paper.
Store in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Remove as much air as possible if using zipper bags.
This easy coconut cake recipe is unbelievably delicious and only uses 5 simple ingredients! Creamy, fluffy, and packed with coconut flavor, it’s the perfect no-fail dessert for potlucks, summer parties, and family dinners.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1 (15 oz.) box yellow or white cake mix (gluten free works too) Ingredients needed for the cake mix directions. (usually eggs, water, and oil) 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk 1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping 1 (8 oz.) pkg. flaked coconut 1 (15 oz.) can crushed pineapple (optional)
Instructions
Bake cake in a 9×13 inch pan according to box instructions.
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pierce it all over with a fork.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the entire cake.
Chill for at least 1 hour.
Mix coconut (and pineapple, if desired) into the whipped topping.
Use these cheap dinner ideas to make easy and cheap meals your entire family will love! I think a lot of people are under the impression that in order to have cheap meal plans you have to have just beans and rice. The fact is that’s just not true! By watching sales and shopping at discount stores you can eat very well for just $30-$50 a week!
Cheap Dinner Ideas – $30 for 1 Week of Family Dinners
Here is a week’s worth of cheap dinner ideas that can simplify your meal preparation, getting you out of the kitchen faster and saving you a lot of money on your family food budget. Each dinner idea includes a meal plan for the day and some of the recipes that go with each meal plan.
You don’t have to strictly stick to any one of these meal plans. You can easily modify any of these easy dinner ideas to suit our family’s own taste, so if you want to switch around the order of the meals or substitute a different main dish or side, don’t be afraid to adapt it for your own convenience.
You can feel free to modify these dinners.
We put these dinner plans together with the idea of saving time and money, so you can make the meal plans just as they are described here for the $30. If you’re not as concerned about having the lowest possible price, you can feel free to substitute any more expensive dinner items that you prefer.
These meal plans assume that each person eats one serving of the meal. Many people eat a lot more than the recommended number of servings per person. If you serve each family member more than one serving, you will naturally be paying more, so keep that in mind.
If you have optional food preferences, you are choosing to pay more. For example, if you eat all organic or only buy free-range chicken, you are choosing to pay more for the food. It’s fine to choose that if you can afford it, but don’t expect to pay the same low price that other people are paying who do not make that choice.
How to shop for the best prices
In order to get the best prices, especially on meats, you MUST shop smart! If you decide to make a meal today and go to the store today to buy the meat, you will probably pay too much. I made these menus and recipes based on prices I am able to get regularly by paying attention to prices and stocking up when the meat and other ingredients are cheap.
To get the best prices on meat:
Keep your eye out for sales whenever you’re at a store. If you notice that something is a much better price than usual, stock up while it’s cheap so you can have inexpensive leat to use to make these meals. For example, I never pay more than $1.99/lb. for boneless skinless chicken breasts because I buy a lot of them when they are on sale and do NOT buy them when the price is high.
Check the ads to see what each store is offering this week. When you see that a store is offering chicken, ground beef, pork chops or something else at an unusually good price, stock up and buy as much as you have room to store. Then wait to buy it again until you find another great deal.
Don’t shop at just one store. We often have people say that meat is so expensive at the store where they shop, but they refuse to shop at any other store or even check the prices at other stores. If you only ever are willing to shop at one store, you will pay a lot higher prices than you need to.
Cheap Dinner Ideas – Family Meal Plan Week 1 Total Cost = $30
4–5 pork chops 4-5 apples, peeled, cored and sliced (If you like the peels you don’t have to peel them.) 4 Tbsp. brown sugar 1 tsp. cinnamon (to taste) 1/4 tsp. nutmeg Salt and pepper 2-3 Tbsp. butter
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°.
Grease a casserole dish or pan. I like to use bacon grease for this.
Place pork chops on the bottom of the pan.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Top with apples.
Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Sprinkle small chunks of butter over the top of everything.
Cover and bake for 45-60 minutes until pork chops are fully cooked.
This easy 3 ingredient parmesan chicken tenders recipe makes light and crispy fried chicken tenders perfect for families! This is a quick and easy chicken dinner recipe you can make fast. Our teenagers love this recipe and often request that I make it for dinner!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
Boneless, skinless chicken, cut into strips 1 egg, beaten Parmesan cheese (the stuff that is already grated in the green can) Oil for frying (I usually use canola or vegetable oil.)
Instructions
Cut boneless, skinless chicken into strips.
In a bowl, beat the egg.
Place the Parmesan cheese into a separate bowl.
Place about 2 Tbsp. oil into a frying pan.
Dip each strip of boneless, skinless chicken into the beaten egg. Turn to coat.
Then dip it into the Parmesan cheese and turn to coat the other side.
Make this warm and comforting soup with your chicken leftovers. The roasted chicken adds a little different and yummy flavor. Don’t be frightened by all the ingredients. You can chop a lot of it the day before you make it and just dump and add the rest.
Author:Jill Cooper
Ingredients
1 cup onions, chopped 1 cup carrots, chopped 1 cup celery, chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 2 tsp. olive oil or canola oil 1/4 cup all purpose flour 1/2 tsp. oregano 1/4 tsp. thyme 8 cups chicken broth 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 tsp. salt (adjust to taste) 2 cups chicken, cooked and diced 2 cups wide egg noodles 1/2 cup evaporated milk
Instructions
Sauté* the first 4 ingredients in oil in a large Dutch oven (big pot or pan).
Stir in flour, oregano and thyme.
Gradually add chicken broth, potatoes and salt.
Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
Add chicken and noodles and simmer 10 more minutes.
Reduce heat and add milk. Do not boil.
Notes
*Saute means to stir and cook until tender, usually about 3-5 minutes.
You can change this recipe to suit your taste:
Add other veggies like peas, corn or broccoli.
You can leave out the potatoes or substitute them with something like sweet potatoes or squash.
You can leave out the milk (but the milk makes a nice creamy soup) and/or add more or less broth.
You can also adjust the spices, for example you might add a little Tabasco sauce to give it a little kick.
This easy meatloaf recipe is a super delicious traditional meatloaf recipe that is easy to make with just 5 minutes’ prep time! This is an easy family dinner idea that everyone loves!
Yield:6 servings
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs. ground beef 1 cup milk 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. dry mustard 1/4 tsp. pepper 3/4 cup quick cooking oatmeal or 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs 1 egg 1/4 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. onion powder 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°.
Mix the ground beef and all other ingredients together except the ketchup.
1 onion, chopped 1/2 lb. Italian sausage 2 (16 oz.) cans stewed tomatoes, chopped, with juice 1 (8 oz.) can tomato paste salt to taste 1 clove garlic, pressed, or garlic powder (to taste) 1 bay leaf 2 tsp. Italian Seasoning
Instructions
Crumble sausage in a 2-quart saucepan.
Brown the sausage with the onion.
Drain off the fat.
Add the remaining ingredients.
Simmer for 1 hour. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Meal Plan Day 6
Spaghetti Pizza (using the leftover spaghetti from above) Confetti Salad Brownie Sundaes Total=$4.50
This easy spaghetti pizza recipe is a great way to use leftover spaghetti. It makes an easy spaghetti casserole using any pizza-type leftovers and other pizza ingredients you love!
Ingredients
1/2 lb. spaghetti noodles, cooked 1 egg, beaten with a fork 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese 1/2 jar (16 oz.) spaghetti sauce
Toppings
Seasonings like oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper Onions, chopped Cottage cheese Ground beef, cooked Pepperoni slices Mozzarella cheese Black Olives Bell Peppers, sliced Any other pizza toppings you love and have on hand
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°.
Mix noodles, egg and cheese.
Place into a well greased 9 inch pie pan (You can double it and put it in 9×13 pan).
Pour spaghetti sauce on it and top with any of the toppings you like.
Bake for 30 minutes or until it is hot and the cheeses are melted.
Looking for a quick and easy salad recipe that is both delicious and visually appealing? Look no further than this confetti salad recipe! With its colorful blend of fresh vegetables and leafy greens, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes, but also a tasty addition to any meal. Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it on its own for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner option.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Yield:Makes 8-10 servings.
Ingredients
6 cups salad greens, cut into bites sized pieces 1 (2 1/4 oz.) can sliced ripe olives, drained 1 small red onion, sliced 1/2 cup red pepper, chopped 1/2 cup yellow pepper, chopped 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated Italian or dressing of your choice
Instructions
Toss everything into a bowl.
Serve with dressing.
Day 7
Serve leftovers for whatever is left or if you go out for date night go ahead and go out and give the kids leftovers!
For more super easy and cheap dinner ideas, check out our easy cookbooks, filled with recipes your family will love!
If you’re looking for the best scalloped potatoes recipe, this easy version is rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible! Tender potatoes bake in a buttery, savory sauce that turns simple ingredients into a comforting dish everyone loves. One bite and you’ll see why this classic recipe keeps people coming back for seconds!
This best scalloped potatoes recipe is one of those classic comfort foods that never goes out of style! Creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying, scalloped potatoes are the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. The simple combination of tender potatoes, buttery sauce, and just the right seasonings makes a side dish that tastes like it took far more effort than it actually did.
One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to put together. With just a few basic pantry ingredients, you can create a rich, creamy sauce that bakes right into the potatoes as they cook. There’s no complicated technique and no fancy ingredients required. Just layer everything in the dish, pour the sauce over the top, and let the oven do the work.
This best scalloped potatoes recipe is also incredibly flexible. If you want to add extra flavor, try mixing in diced ham, bacon, or sausage between the layers. The smoky, savory meat pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes and makes the dish even more hearty and satisfying. If you prefer a cheesy version, simply add shredded cheese to turn it into delicious au gratin potatoes.
Because the ingredients are simple and budget-friendly, this recipe is perfect for feeding a family without spending a lot at the grocery store. Potatoes are one of the most affordable foods you can buy, and when baked in a creamy sauce like this, they turn into a dish that feels special enough for holidays, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want a comforting homemade meal.
Once you try this best scalloped potatoes recipe, you’ll see why it’s a favorite that families have been making for generations. It’s creamy, buttery, easy to make, and absolutely delicious — the kind of simple homemade cooking that everyone loves.
This best scalloped potatoes recipe is loaded with tender sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy sauce that’s pure comfort food. It’s easy to make with ingredients you probably already have and requires almost no prep. Buttery, savory, and incredibly satisfying, it’s the kind of classic homemade dish that makes everyone want to go back for seconds!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Yield:Serves 4
Ingredients
6 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 1/2 cup dry milk (optional) 1 tsp. onion powder (optional) salt and pepper (to taste) 3 cups cold milk 4 cups potatoes, sliced 1 onion, sliced 1–1 1/2 cups diced ham, bacon, or sausage (optional) 3 Tbsp. butter or margarine
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F.
In a quart jar or bowl, combine the flour, dry milk, onion powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Close jar and shake or whisk well to mix.
Add the cold milk, then shake or whisk again until the flour mixture is completely dissolved.
Grease a 3-quart casserole dish.
Layer half of the potatoes, onions, and meat (if using) in the dish. Dot with small pieces of butter.
Add the remaining potatoes, onions, and meat, and dot again with butter.
Pour the flour/milk mixture evenly over the top.
Bake 1 ½ hours. If the top starts to get too brown in the last 30 minutes, cover for the remaining bake time.
Notes
Variation: Au Gratin Potatoes
For a cheesy version, add 1½ cups shredded or cubed cheese between the layers or sprinkle it over the top before baking.
Good cheese options include:
Cheddar
Colby Jack
Monterey Jack
✅ Budget Tip: This recipe is a great way to stretch small amounts of leftover ham or bacon into a full meal. Just add a simple vegetable or salad on the side.
When the mood strikes for Asian food, nothing else will do. If you live near a great place for takeout, that can be great. But if you want to save some money, make your own, or don’t have a great place nearby these easy Chinese Chicken recipes are the perfect solution.
These easy Chinese chicken recipes are simple and delicious, and much cheaper than buying Chinese food at a restaurant. The first 4 recipes start from the same Chinese chicken base recipe and then each has its own sauce and variations. You’ll find an easy sweet and sour chicken recipe, sesame chicken, garlic chicken, an easy orange chicken recipe and more!
The base Chinese chicken recipe is breaded. If you do not want the chicken to be breaded or if you are gluten free, you can fry the bite sized pieces without the breading and then serve with the rice, sauces and add-ins, if desired.
You can split the chicken between multiple sauces depending on what you like. If you prefer to serve more than one flavor, this is a quick and easy way to make multiple styles of Chinese Chicken at the same time.
All of these recipes are delicious and they are especially popular with teenagers and picky eaters!
You can find this and other tasty recipes in our Dining On A Dime Cookbooks! (The Chinese chicken is from Volume 2 and the stir fry is from Volume 1.)
How To Make The Chinese Chicken Recipes
Chinese chicken dishes are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make at home. The beauty of these recipes lies in their simplicity and versatility. The first 4 Chinese chicken recipes begin with a foundational base recipe, which serves as the perfect canvas for a variety of flavorful sauces and creative variations.
First, pour the frying oil into a medium frying pan and heat it on high until hot.
While the oil is heating, mix the batter for the chicken. Combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda and water and mix until the batter has a smooth consistency. (If you don’t want your chicken to be breaded, you can skip this step and the next one. Instead, season with seasoned salt and fry unbreaded.)
Add the chicken pieces to the batter and stir to coat them with the batter.
Drop the chicken pieces individually into the hot oil so that they don’t clump together. (If you just pour them all in, they will fry into one large clump of breaded fried chicken pierces.)
Be careful not to splatter the hot oil on yourself as you add the chicken to the oil. I like to use a large metal ladle or spoon to carefully drop the chicken pieces into the oil.
Fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown. As they cook, remove them from the oil with a slotted spoon and lay them on a plata covered with a couple paper towels to catch the extra oil drippings. (If you skipped breading, the chicken will only brown a little.)
If you will be adding any optional vegetables that you would like sautéed, sauté them now. For example, you may want to sauté bell peppers and onions for Sweet and Sour Chicken. For a crunchier texture, only lightly sauté them.
To make your desired sauce (recipes below): Add the sauce ingredients to a medium saucepan, stir to mix. Cook for 5 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken. Then pour over the chicken or serve on the side if some people might not want sauce.
Serve over white rice, fried rice or Chow mein noodles.
Easy Chinese Chicken Variations and Tips
If you would like to add Chinese vegetables to the chicken as these dishes are served in your favorite restaurant, you can also lightly sauté your choice of veggies like bell peppers, chunks of white onions and carrots. Then, when the chicken and the sauce are finished, you can add the vegetables and pour the sauce over the top. The vegetables add a little extra flavor and color, and make the dish look even more like a restaurant served meal.
If you have picky eaters, you can make the Chinese chicken base and then serve the rice, chicken, vegetables, and sauce separately so each person can customize to his or her own taste.
If you would like fresh homemade eggrolls to go with the Chinese chicken recipes, you can make our easy eggrolls recipe and serve them along with the chicken.
You can also make a big batch of Chinese Chicken, split it into two or three bowls, and add a different sauce to each. I’ve included the basic chicken recipe plus four sauce recipes in this post. Each of the sauce recipes makes enough sauce for two pounds of chicken.
If you do not want the chicken to be breaded or if you are gluten free, you can fry the bite sized pieces without the breading. If you are gluten free, be sure that all of your ingredients for the sauces and add-ins are also gluten free. For example, you would want to use gluten free soy sauce.
This easy Chinese chicken recipe base can be used as a starting point for creating dishes like sweet and sour chicken, orange chicken, sesame chicken, and more. Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a light, crispy batter and fried to perfection. With a crunchy exterior and tender inside, it’s the perfect base for your favorite sauces and flavors. Serve it with rice or noodles and customize it to your taste for a delicious and satisfying meal every time.
Author:Sheala Cooper
Yield:Makes 1 1/2-2 lbs.
Ingredients
vegetable oil, for frying 1 1/2-2 lbs. boneless chicken breast, cut into 3/4 inch cubes 1 cup all purpose flour 1/2 cup cornstarch 2 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1 1/4 cups cold water
Instructions
In a medium frying pan, heat oil on high (at least 1 inch deep in pan) until hot.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda and water until smooth in consistency.
Add chicken to batter and stir until coated.
Drop coated pieces individually into hot oil, frying until cooked. (Otherwise, they will clump together.)
If you like, for a little extra flavor and color, you can also lightly sauté your choice of veggies like bell peppers, chunks of white onions and carrots and add them to your choice of sauce at the end, pouring a little extra sauce over the top when the veggies are added.
(Sauce options are in the next several recipes.)
Notes
If you do not want the chicken to be breaded or if you are gluten free, you can season the chicken with seasoned salt and fry the bite sized pieces without the breading.
These Easy Chinese Chicken Recipes Are From Our Dining On a Dime Cookbook, Volume 2.
[dining]
Sauce Variations for our Chinese Chicken Recipes
If you’d like to make more than one flavor of chicken for the same meal, prepare as much chicken as your family wants. Then make two or more of the sauces and serve separately from the chicken so each person can choose his or her own sauce.
Each of these sauce recipes makes enough sauce for two pounds of chicken. If you have extra sauce, freeze the extra portion in a freezable plastic jar to thaw and use later when you want Asian food again.
This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is one of the most popular Chinese chicken recipes! Crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces are smothered in a bright and flavorful sauce that’s perfectly sweet and tangy. Perfect for kids and picky eaters! To make it more fancy, you can enhance it with chunks of pineapple, bell peppers, and onions. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying and colorful meal.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1/4 cup cornstarch 1/2 cup water 1/3 cup pineapple juice 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar 1/2 cup ketchup 1 Tbsp. soy sauce 2 lbs. Chinese chicken base (Recipe above)
Instructions
Add all of the ingredients except the chicken base to a medium saucepan.
Stir to mix.
Cook for 5 minutes, until the mixture begins to thicken.
Pour over the Chinese chicken.
Notes
Add-Ons/Variations:
If you like, you can add any of the following to the Sweet And Sour Chicken to give it more of a restaurant quality (Our kids prefer just the chicken, rice and sauce.):
Bell pepper slices – Red, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers add color and a sweet, crunchy texture.
White or red onions provide a slightly sweet and sharp flavor.
Pineapple chunks are a classic addition, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the sauce.
Here are some less common add-ons you can try:
Sliced or julienned carrots add a crunchy texture and mild sweetness.
Snow peas or snap peas
Broccoli florets add a hearty texture and absorb the sweet and sour sauce well.
Mandarin oranges add a refreshing, citrusy note to the dish.
Savor the flavors of this tasty Chinese Sesame Chicken recipe! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce. With flavors of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and topped with toasted sesame seeds, each bite is a burst of deliciousness. Serve it with rice or noodles for a meal everyone will enjoy.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1/4 cup soy sauce 2 Tbsp. water 1 Tbsp. oil, butter or margarine 3 Tbsp. brown sugar 1 Tbsp. rice vinegar 1 tsp. fresh ginger, grated 2 cloves garlic, minced or 2 tsp. minced garlic 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds 1/2 Tbsp. cornstarch 2 lbs. Chinese chicken base (Recipe above)
Instructions
Add all of the ingredients except the chicken base to a medium saucepan.
Stir to mix.
Cook for 5 minutes, until the mixture begins to thicken.
Pour over the Chinese chicken.
If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top.
Notes
If you like, you can try adding any of the following on to of the sesame chicken as a garnish:
Toasted Sesame Seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
Chopped Green Onions: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
Cilantro: Adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note.
Sliced Red Chili or Chili Flakes: For a touch of heat and color.
Crushed Peanuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
We normally serve Sesame Chicken with only sesame seeds and green onions as a garnish, but if you would like to add vegetables, here sre some that work well with Sesame Chicken:
Broccoli florets add a hearty texture and absorb the sweet and sour sauce well.
Bell pepper slices – Red, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers add color and a sweet, crunchy texture.
White or red onions provide a slightly sweet and sharp flavor.
Sliced or julienned carrots add a crunchy texture and mild sweetness.
This Chinese garlic chicken recipe is one of the most flavorful Chinese chicken recipes. Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a light, crispy batter and fried to perfection. Then the rich, garlicky sauce is poured over the top. Infused with soy sauce, a hint of ginger, and just the right amount of garlic, this dish offers a delicious blend of savory and aromatic flavors you’re sure to love!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
2 Tbsp. brown sugar 1/4 cup soy sauce 1 Tbsp. white vinegar or rice vinegar 1 cup vegetable broth or water 1 1/2 Tbsp. cornstarch 2 Tbsp. canola oil 1 tsp. onion powder 3 Tbsp. garlic, chopped or 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 Tbsp. ginger, chopped or 1 tsp. ginger powder 2 lbs. Chinese chicken base (Recipe above)
Instructions
Add all of the ingredients except the chicken base to a medium saucepan.
Stir to mix.
Cook for 5 minutes, until the mixture begins to thicken.
Pour over the Chinese chicken.
Notes
Add-Ons/Variations:
If you like, you can add any of the following to the Garlic Chicken (or anything else that sounds good to you):
Broccoli florets add a hearty texture and absorb the sweet and sour sauce well.
Bell pepper slices – Red, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers add color and a sweet, crunchy texture.
White or red onions provide a slightly sweet and sharp flavor.
Sliced or julienned carrots add a crunchy texture and mild sweetness.
Enjoy this delicious Chinese Orange Chicken with crispy chicken pieces covered in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. With flavors of fresh orange, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, each bite is bursting with flavor. Serve it with rice or veggies for a tasty meal everyone will love.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1 cup orange juice 1/2 cup sugar 2 Tbsp. rice vinegar or white vinegar 2 Tbsp. soy sauce 1/4 tsp. ginger powder or 1 tsp. ginger, chopped 1/4 tsp. garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced or 2 tsp. minced garlic 1/2 tsp. red chili flakes 1 Tbsp. cornstarch orange zest from 1 orange 2 lbs. Chinese chicken base (Recipe above)
Instructions
Add all of the ingredients except the orange zest and chicken base to a medium saucepan.
Stir to mix.
Cook for 5 minutes, until the mixture begins to thicken.
Once the sauce is thickened, remove from heat and add the orange zest.
Easy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. This quick and simple recipe combines the perfect balance of soy sauce, honey, and garlic, making it an ideal choice for a flavorful weeknight meal. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
3/4 cup honey 3/4 cup soy sauce 3 cloves garlic, minced or 1 Tbsp. minced garlic 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional, to taste) 2 lbs. Chinese chicken base (Recipe above)
Instructions
Add the honey, soy sauce, garlic and red pepper flakes to a medium saucepan.
Stir to mix.
Cook for 5 minutes, until the mixture begins to thicken.
This easy stir fry recipe makes a quick and easy meal that is tasty and has a lot of variety! It’s healthy and easy to make in about 10 minutes so it’s one of my favorite family meals when I’m tired or just not feeling well.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1/2 cup leftover beef, turkey or chicken 3 Tbsp. peanut butter 2 Tbsp. soy sauce 1/2 tsp. hot sauce 1 Tbsp. cornstarch or 2 Tbsp. flour 1 cup water 1 Tbsp. oil 3-4 sliced ginger root peeled and minced OR 1 tsp ginger powder 2 cloves garlic, minced OR 1 tsp. garlic powder 2 stalks celery, sliced 2 onions, sliced 2 green peppers, sliced 2 cups cabbage, shredded 2 Tbsp. water
Instructions
In a bowl, mix the peanut butter, soy sauce and hot sauce.
Stir the cornstarch into 1 cup of water. Add to the bowl.
In a deep skillet, simmer the oil with the ginger and garlic over medium heat.
Add the vegetables, starting with the firmest as you dice the others. Stir after each addition.
Sprinkle on water as needed. Make sure you do not overcook the vegetables.
Add the cooked meat last.
Push the vegetables to the side and add the sauce to the pot while stirring. Add additional water if needed.
As the sauce clears, mix in the vegetables. Serve over rice. Serves 4.
This easy Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe is loaded with crispy bacon, hash browns, and three kinds of cheese for a warm, comforting breakfast everyone will love. It’s a simple, make-ahead dish that’s perfect for holidays, busy mornings, or feeding a hungry crowd on a budget.
If you need a hearty, no-fuss breakfast that will feed a crowd, this Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a perfect choice! It’s packed with crispy bacon, tender hash browns, and plenty of melted cheese, making it a comforting, satisfying dish that everyone loves. Whether you’re serving a holiday breakfast, hosting overnight guests, or just want something easy for a busy morning, this casserole comes together quickly and bakes up beautifully.
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple and budget-friendly it is. It uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand, and you can easily swap in what you have in your refrigerator. Leftover ham or sausage works just as well as bacon, and any combination of cheeses will still give you that rich, creamy texture. It’s also a great way to stretch a small amount of meat into a filling meal for the whole family.
This Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can assemble everything the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and bake until hot and bubbly. That means less stress, less mess, and more time to enjoy breakfast with your family.
Serve it with fresh fruit, toast, or a simple muffin for a complete meal. Once you try it, this easy casserole will quickly become one of your go-to breakfasts for weekends, holidays, and anytime you need a warm, comforting dish.
This Amish breakfast casserole recipe is from Volume 2:
Start your morning right with this hearty Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe packed with crispy bacon, tender hash browns, and three kinds of melted cheese. It’s an easy, make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for holidays, busy mornings, or feeding a hungry crowd without breaking the budget.
Making a cake has never been easier than this easy dump cake recipe with no mixing required. Just dump, spread, and bake for a fantastic and fast dessert. Try our variations for a completely different dump cake each time.
Our easy dump cake recipe uses pie fillings and cake mix to create a delicious, gooey cake that everyone loves. Plus there is something really fun about knowing you just dumped everything into a pan and it turned out amazing.
What is a Dump Cake?
Exactly what it sounds like! For this recipe, you literally dump the ingredients in one at a time and layer them before baking. Nothing could be easier.
How Does a Dump Cake Recipe Work?
The magic of this cake is that the liquids absorb into the cake mix from the bottom up and create an amazing crust on top. It’s almost like an upside-down pie, but with cake instead of pie crust. It’s also very similar to a cobbler, but a little bit different.
Ingredients
All of the ingredients for this dump cake recipe are store-bought and easy to find. Keep these on hand to use for a quick easy cake any time. I love cakes like this because they come together so fast! No beating the eggs no mixing, no stirring, and no fuss. Hint: I also highly recommend you grab some ice cream.
Crushed Pineapple, Canned. I love having a can of crushed pineapple in my pantry at all times, because pineapple is a tasty addition to a huge variety of recipes.
Cherry Pie Filling, Canned. Just regular store-bought cans of pie filling will work.
Apple Pie Filling, Canned. You can also use home-canned pie filling as long as you have the right amount of ounces.
Yellow Cake Mix. Any brand of cake mix will work. You can also experiment with different flavors.
Chopped Nuts. Try chopped walnuts or pecans.
Butter or Margarine. This adds flavor and fat to the recipe as it melts down into the cake layers.
How to Make a Dump Cake
Important: Do not mix this cake! It’s called a dump cake because you dump each ingredient in one at a time and layer them in the pan. This is how it works.
First, preheat your oven and grease your pan. Next, layer the undrained pineapple in the bottom of your 9 x 13 pan. Repeat this step with each of the pie fillings. After the pie fillings are both spread out, dump the cake mix in and spread it evenly across the pan. Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans on top. Finally, slice and spread out the butter all over the cake as evenly as possible.
How Long to Bake Dump Cake
Bake for about one hour until it’s a nice golden brown on top.
You don’t need any frosting, but ice cream or a drizzled caramel sauce would be tasty.
Can Dump Cake Be Made Ahead?
While you can save dump cake leftovers, it is best hot and fresh. It’s also really good with ice cream! Just plan to stick it in the oven one hour before you need it, because layering the six ingredients hardly takes any time at all.
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 or 3 days. Freeze individual slices of dump cake in freezer quality zipper bags for up to one month. Make sure to remove the excess air from each bag. Thaw at room temperature for about one hour before serving from frozen.
Dump Cake Recipe Variations
Use lemon, strawberry or spice cake mixes instead.
Replace the 2 cans of pie filling with 1 can blueberry pie filling, 1 cup coconut and 1 cup pecans.
Try something new! Play around with a variety of pie fillings and cake mixes to find a new flavor you love.
Other Cake Recipes
I’m confident you are going to love our dump cake recipe, but if you are looking for more desserts to try, here are some other great cake recipes.
Easy Pound Cake. The perfect cake to serve with macerated (softened in sugar) strawberries and whipped cream in Spring.
Chocolate lovers, this Double Chocolate Dump Cake is the kind of easy dessert you’ll find yourself making again and again! With rich chocolate flavor in every bite and just a few simple ingredients, it’s a quick, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for busy days, potlucks, or satisfying a serious chocolate craving!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1 box chocolate cake mix
1 (3.9 oz.) box instant chocolate pudding mix
2 cups milk
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Pour the cake mix and pudding mix into the prepared baking pan and stir to combine.
Add the milk and stir until mixed.
Pour the butter evenly over the top.
Sprinkle with the chocolate chips.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-special dessert.
For even more chocolate flavor, use milk chocolate, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips.
This easy toll house chocolate chip cookie recipe makes delicious chocolate chip cookies that taste just like toll house cookie bars! You can make these as bar cookies or regular chocolate chip cookies.
These toll house cookie bars make easy delicious moist and gooey cookies sure to satisfy the chocolate chip cookie lover in your family!
If you prefer, you can make the regular chocolate chip cookie variation and they will be more crunchy like classic chocolate chip cookies. Either way, you’ll have a yummy treat that everyone is sure to love, especially kids! They are perfect for after school snacks, parties and packed lunches!
If you’re a fan of Toll House cookies, you’ll love this homemade copycat Toll House cookies recipe that tastes just like the real deal. Not only is it quick and easy to make, but it’s also a budget-friendly alternative to buying pre-made dough at the store. With this recipe, you can enjoy warm, freshly baked cookies straight from your oven whenever you crave them.
Ingredients
1 cup butter, softened 3/4 cup sugar 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed 1 tsp. vanilla 2 eggs 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt 1 (12 oz.) pkg. semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°.
Grease a 15x10x1 inch jelly roll pan.
Beat butter, both sugars and vanilla in a large mixing bowl.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
Add flour, baking soda and salt.
Gradually beat flour mixture into butter mixture.
Stir in chocolate chips and nuts.
Spread into the prepared baking pan.
Bake 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
This recipe describes how to make toll house cookie bars, but if you prefer, you can make them as regular round chocolate chip cookies. Prepare the batter as above. Drop by spoonfuls on a cookie sheet and bake 15 minutes at 350°
You might also want to try these other tasty cookie recipes!
This easy honey garlic chicken recipe is a super yummy and easy to make Chinese chicken dinner recipe you can make in 10-15 minutes!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
2 tsp. olive oil or vegetable oil 1 1/2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into small pieces (about 1/2 inch) salt and pepper (to taste)
Sauce Ingredients
3 Tbsp. honey 3 Tbsp. soy sauce 3 cloves garlic, minced or 1 Tbsp. minced garlic 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
Instructions
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Add the chicken to the skillet and brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes. While the chicken is browning, make the sauce.
Whisk the honey, soy sauce, garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, in a small bowl until well combined.
Add the sauce to the pan and toss to coat the chicken pieces.
Cook until chicken is cooked through, 4-5 more minutes.
Serve with steamed rice and top with green onions, sesame seeds and a squeeze of lime juice, if desired.
Serve this honey garlic chicken with your choice of these optional items:
This easy fried rice recipe makes delicious Chinese fried rice perfect served alongside any Chinese food dish. Simple to make and customize to your taste, it’s an ideal way to use leftover rice, vegetables, and more.
Heat through. For the best flavor, cook until it is heated through and the rice is browned.
Notes
The basic fried rice recipe is super versatile and easy to customize you your own taste. While the recipe only calls for rice, eggs and bell peppers, you can add any kind of vegetables and proteins that sound good. This recipe is a great way to use leftover rice, vegetables, chicken and more.
Here are some other things you might want to add to the easy fried rice recipe to make it a little more fancy:
Mixed vegetables, like peas and carrots or a vegetable blend
Onions, chopped and sautéed (You can sauté them as they are cooking in the fried rice.)
Cooked meat, like chicken, beef, pork, shrimp or fish.
Fried tofu
Your favorite Asian sauce
Any of the variations in our list above or anything that sounds good to you.
If you don’t like eggs or if you can’t eat them, you can leave them out of the recipe.
This recipe is a perfect way to use leftovers, so if you have any kind of leftover vegetables or cooked meat, add them to this fried rice recipe to use them without calling them leftovers.
This easy honey garlic chicken recipe is from volume 2 of our cookbook:
Here are some cheap meal ideas and recipes you can use to save money on groceries! If you want to cut your food bill, using just a few of these ideas and recipes can cut your food bill a lot!
Cheap Meal Ideas And Recipes – How We Ate For $7 A Week
In this post, I will share some of the cheap meal ideas and recipes Mom used to keep our grocery budget so low.
This was our food budget out of necessity because of our extremely tight financial situation. You may not want to limit your food to just these things but, at the time, things were desperate for us and Mom was trying to figure out how to feed us within the very tight budget we had.
Don’t get stuck in these numbers. If you find yourself saying, “I could never do that…” or “That is impossible these days…”, you are sabotaging yourself and you will never reach your goals. You will need to decide if you would rather convince yourself there’s nothing you can do so you can lament your financial condition or if you want to take action to empower yourself to make your situation better.
Even if you don’t get your grocery budget this low, you can likely save money from what you are spending now. Most people can save a LOT. I’m sharing these cheap meal ideas so you can think about what your goals are for saving on your food bill and consider how you might be able to reduce your spending.
Look it over and then figure out what you might want to implement in your family budget. If you can take a couple of these cheap meal ideas and recipes and lower your grocery bill even by 10%, you will be saving money over what you are spending now. Then keep checking out our other ideas and figuring out what else best works for your family situation.
For more ideas how to save money and reduce your stress, check out:
Most people could save a lot more money on these things than on their grocery bills, so if you want to save the most you can, be sure to check out the above posts!
Cheap Meal Ideas And Recipes – Basic Meal Ideas
Here are some cheap meal ideas and recipes for each meal of the day and a couple of dessert recipes. Implementing these recipes into your meals at least a few times a week will help you save more.
Cheap Meal Ideas And Recipes – Breakfast
Here are the most common easy recipes my mom served for breakfast because they are inexpensive and a little bit goes a long way. When you’re looking for cheap meal ideas and recipes, it’s also good to remember to keep your serving sizes reasonable. Many of us eat too much food and then try hard to work it all off, especially here in America. You can reduce the waste by making just enough for your family and also by preparing their plates and serving them at the table so they’re not tempted to eat too much.
This easy homemade pancakes recipe takes about 15 minutes to make and everyone loves them! These pancakes are a staple at our house and your family will love them too! If you need cheap meal ideas and recipes, this recipe is a great breakfast basic!
This easy homemade pancakes recipe takes about 15 minutes to make and everyone loves them! These pancakes are a staple at our house and your family will love them too!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Yield:15-18 medium pancakes
Ingredients
2 Tbsp. sugar 2 cups flour, all-purpose or wheat 5 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2 eggs 1 1/2 cups milk
Instructions
In a bowl, mix all of the ingredients just enough to moisten the dry ingredients. The mixture will be thick and lumpy.
Heat a griddle or frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease.
Pour or spoon the batter onto the griddle to form pancakes.
Cook the pancakes on a hot greased griddle.
Flip when bubbles break on the surface and the edges begin to dry.
Notes
If you like, you can add chocolate chips or candies to the batter for a special treat.
If you would like to make special patterns for the kids, you can add chocolate chips or candy while the pancakes are cooking. I like to make smiley faces and other patterns in the pancakes for special occasions. For Valentine’s day, I have made heart shapes in pink sprinkles, for Christmas, I have made Christmas designs, etc.
This quick and easy scrambled eggs recipe should be a staple in every home! It’s a perfect recipe for cheap meals because virtually everyone loves scrambled eggs, but also because they are hearty and provide a lot of protein! You can serve them just as is if your budget is really tight. If you want to spice them up a bit, you can also add things like salsa, green peppers, onions or cheese!
This easy scrambled eggs recipe makes delicious scrambled eggs in just 5 minutes. Scrambled eggs are a great breakfast food, but also a tasty source of protein that is quick to make and that you can eat anytime!
Author:Jill Cooper
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
8 eggs 1 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 4 Tbsp. milk or water (optional) 4 tsp. butter, margarine or bacon drippings
Instructions
Stir all of the ingredients except butter in a bowl until well blended.
Heat a skillet on medium heat.
Add the butter, margarine or bacon grease.
Pour the egg mixture into the skillet.
Stir constantly for about 4 minutes until eggs are fluffy and set.
Notes
To test eggs for freshness: Place an egg in a glass of cold water; if it floats, do not use it.
Using bacon grease in this easy scrambled eggs recipe will give your scrambled eggs a richer, more delicous flavor! I highly recommend it!
In place of butter, margarine or bacon grease, you can also use 1 Tbsp. cooking oil. I would not use olive oil as the flavor or the olive oil will impact the flavor of the eggs.
This easy muffins recipe is a perfect recipe for a quick breakfast or snack. My mom used to make these often. They are delicious just as they are. If you’re looking for cheap meal ideas to cut your budget the most, you would save more money serving them plain, but you can also add things like nuts, fruit or chocolate chips for a little extra variety.
Here are some perfect cheap meal ideas and recipes for lunches. We mostly ate sandwiches for lunches because they’re cheap, tasty and filling. You can also make the fillings ahead of time and spread them on the bread just before lunch. If you send them in packed lunches, lightly buttering the inside with butter, margarine or vegetable spread will keep them from getting soggy.
This easy chicken salad recipe is one of our cheap meal ideas that you can whip up in just a couple minutes that makes delicious sandwiches, perfect for lunches at home or packed lunches. It’s a perfect way to use leftover chicken or to stretch a little bit of chicken into another meal!
1 1/2 cups chopped, cooked chicken or turkey 1/2 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing 1 small stalk celery, chopped 1 small onion, chopped, or 1 tsp. onion powder 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper
Instructions
Mix all ingredients. Best if chilled for 1 or 2 hours.
This easy egg salad recipe is another tasty recipe to help use up all those colored eggs after Easter. You can make up a big batch and have it for several lunches. You can add lettuce leaves or celery for extra crunch.
6 hard boiled eggs, chopped 1/2 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing 1 tsp. mustard (optional) 1 small stalk celery, chopped (optional) 1 small onion, chopped, or 1 tsp. onion powder (optional) 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper (optional)
Instructions
Mix all ingredients together.
Chill. This recipe is best if chilled for 1-2 hours.
This egg salad recipe makes enough for 4 egg salad sandwiches.
This easy chicken salad recipe is a tasty recipe you can whip up in just a couple minutes that makes delicious sandwiches, perfect for lunches at home or packed lunches. It’s a perfect way to use leftover chicken or to stretch a little bit of chicken into another meal!
3–4 (5 oz.) cans tuna, drained 1/2 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing 1 small stalk celery, chopped 1 small onion, chopped, or 1 tsp. onion powder 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper
Instructions
Mix all ingredients. Best if chilled for 1 or 2 hours.
Cheap Meal Ideas And Recipes – Dinner
This easy chicken and dumplings recipe is an easy way to make chicken and dumplings like mom and grandma used to make! It’s a perfect comfort food recipe that is quick and easy to make!
This easy chicken and dumplings recipe is an easy way to make chicken and dumplings like mom and grandma used to make! It’s a perfect comfort food!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
Units
4 cups chicken broth 1/2–1 1/2cupschicken or turkey, cooked 1/2cupcelery, sliced 1/2cupcarrots, sliced 1 bay leaf 1 tsp. parsley flakes
Dumplings
2 cups baking mix
1/4 tsp. thyme, dried
1/2 tsp. parsley flakes
2/3 cup milk
Instructions
In a Dutch oven, combine broth, chicken, celery, carrots, bay leaf and parsley.
Bring to a boil.
In a bowl, combine baking mix, thyme, and parsley.
Stir in milk, just until moistened.
Drop by tablespoonfuls into the boiling broth.
Cook, uncovered, for 10 minutes.
Then cover and cook an additional 10 minutes. DO NOT PEEK or your dumplings will be soggy.
Remove dumplings with a slotted spoon and serve in bowls.
Remove bay leaf and spoon broth over the top of the dumplings.
This quick and easy beef stew is my mom’s beef stew recipe and it is the best beef stew you will ever eat! It is probably my favorite of all of the cheap meal ideas. Every time I make it, everyone raves about how great it is. It’s so great we hardly ever have leftovers! If you need a quick and easy meal to put in the crockpot or on the stove to simmer, this is the recipe for you!!
This recipe is a tasty, tummy warming recipe for cool winter days and you can easily use leftovers in places of some of the ingredients. This is a very low cost recipe and is very tasty as written, but you can feel free to modify it to your liking. If you prefer, you can add or take away veggies and if you don’t mind the extra cost, you can add more meat.
This easy beef stew recipe makes a delicious hearty beef stew in the crockpot or on the stovetop. It’s a home cooked recipe just like grandma used to make and your family is sure to love it. This stew recipe is a great way to use leftover round steak, pot roast or other meat.
Author:Jill Cooper
Ingredients
1/2 lb. round steak, cubed or leftover beef 6 cups water 1 bay leaf 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. sugar 1 tsp. garlic salt, (or to taste) 1 tsp. onion salt, (or to taste) or 1 onion, chopped 1/4 tsp. allspice 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. lemon juice 2 carrots, peeled and sliced 6 potatoes, peeled and diced 1 Tbsp. cornstarch or flour 2 Tbsp. water
Instructions
Brown the meat in a large saucepan.
Add all of the other ingredients except the vegetables, cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water.
Simmer for 1-2 hours until the meat is tender.
Add the vegetables.
Cook for 15-20 minutes, until tender.
Mix the cornstarch into 2 Tbsp. water.
Add to the boiling stew.
Simmer 15 minutes, until thickened. Makes 2 quarts.
To Make This Beef Stew In A Crockpot
Brown the meat in a pan. It does not need to be cooked through, just browned.
Put everything in the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
In the last 1/2 hour of cooking, mix the cornstarch into 2 Tbsp. water and add to the crockpot to thicken.
Notes
This recipes calls for round steak, but you can also use other kinds of beef or steak.
This recipe is an easy way to use leftovers. Leftover Pot Roast is delicious in this recipe.
You can also throw in leftover potatoes or vegetables.
This Quick and Easy Chili Recipe will get you in and out of the kitchen fast! It’s a homemade chili recipe that even kids will love!
This quick and easy chili recipe is another of my favorite cheap meal ideas! If you are a chili connoisseur, it may not be for you but if you have picky eaters or children this recipe is perfect. You can adjust the amounts of the ingredients to the size of your family without doing much harm. This is also a perfect recipe to make the day before and just warm up when you need it.
3 small cans tomato soup* 3 soup cans of water 1/2 to 1 lb. cooked hamburger Chili powder, to taste Garlic powder and onion powder, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Put everything into a large pan.
Simmer at least 2 hours. It’s better to let it simmer all day if possible.
I usually use at least 2 teaspoons each of chili powder and garlic powder. You can also use onions.
You can add almost anything you want to this basic recipe. Beans work well or I like to crumble in some fried sausage for extra flavor.
*I have also replaced the soup with a large can (32-36 oz.) of tomato juice and it is good, too!
This easy cornbread recipe is so delicious, sweet and moist you can eat it with nothing on it! It is the best cornbread ever! Serve with stews, chili, soups and more!
I loved drowning my cornbread in syrup until I discovered this easy cornbread recipe. This cornbread is so delicious I can eat it with nothing on it! It is sweet and moist, easy to make and has the best flavor! It’s great to use to make dressing (stuffing) or to serve with stews, soups or chili. It is so good, it will probably become a staple in your home!
2 cupsbaking mix (Bisquick) 1/2 cup cornmeal 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 tsp. baking powder 2 eggs 1 cup milk
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°.
Stir all the ingredients together in a mixing bowl.
Blend until smooth.
Pour into a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Notes
I like to bake my cornbread in a cast iron frying pan. I grease it with bacon grease and heat the pan in the oven while it is preheating. As soon as it is hot (about 5 minutes of so or the amount of time it takes to mix the batter) I pour the cornbread batter into the pan and bake it.
You can also easily make this easy cornbread recipe into corn muffins by pouring the batter into muffin tins.
Cheap Meal Ideas And Recipes – Desserts
When people think of cheap meal ideas and recipes, desserts don’t often come to mind, but it’s nice to have a little sweet treat, especially for the kids. Here are our favorite cheap and tasty dessert recipes my mom made for us. They make great playtime or after school snacks!
This is the best homemade sugar cookies recipe! Sugar cookies are a great treat for holidays or for kids’ snacks. These are so light and fluffy, you’re sure to love them! My mom made these for us and now my kids love Nan’s sugar cookies just as much!
This homemade sugar cookies recipe makes the best light and fluffy sugar cookies! These sugar cookies are perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day or a tasty snack anytime!
Cream together the sugar, shortening, eggs and vanilla.
Add buttermilk. Stir well.
Add the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
Roll into balls and drop about 3 inches apart on a greased cookie sheet or silpat.
Wet the tips of your fingers, smash down each cookie and sprinkle with sugar or colored sugar. If you prefer, you can roll out the cookies.
Chill for 2 hours.
When ready to make the cookies, preheat the oven to 350°.
Roll out the dough. The dough will be very sticky.
Cut with a cookie cutter and place on a cookie sheet.
Bake for 5-10 minutes, just until golden.
Notes
This recipe can be easily halved.
When you make this recipe, make sure to use shortening and not butter. The shortening is what makes the cookies light and fluffy. If you substitute butter, the sugar cookies will turn out flat and crunchy instead of light and fluffy, which is not what you want in a sugar cookie.
This easy no bake fudge cookies recipe is a wonderfully chocolatey recipe to satisfy your kids on those hot summer days! These cookies are our kids most favorite recipe and older kids can easily make this recipe themselves!
This no bake fudge cookies recipe is rich and amazingly delicious! These fudge cookies are easy to make in just a few minutes and it’s so simple that older kids can make it themselves! If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, you can leave it out and they are just as wonderful!
Author:Jill
Ingredients
1/2 cup milk 2 cups sugar 1/2 cup baking cocoa 1/2 cup butter or margarine 1/2 cup peanut butter 1 tsp. vanilla 3 cups oatmeal 1/2 cup nuts (optional)
Instructions
Before you start, cut about a 20 inch piece of wax paper. Lay it on the counter. This serves as something to drop the cookies on.
In a saucepan, mix milk, sugar, cocoa, and butter.
Bring to a boil.
Boil 1 minute. (For high altitude, let them cook 30 seconds to a minute longer.)
Remove from heat.
Stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and nuts.
Mix until peanut butter is mixed in.
Add oatmeal.
Drop by spoonfuls on the wax paper.
Let cool until set.
This process must be done a little quickly because the cookies start hardening pretty fast. If the humidity is high or you don’t boil them the right amount of time, they may not harden. Don’t panic! Just pour the mixture into a container and use as fudge sauce for ice cream. …Although my kids love eating these homemade no bake fudge cookies with spoons if they don’t get hard enough to eat as cookies!
These cheap meal ideas and recipes are from volume 1 of our cookbook:
This easy chicken tenders recipe makes chicken tenders that are so easy and taste so good your whole family will love them! Why spend too much on institutional or restaurant chicken tenders when these are easy, taste great and cost a lot less!
Our entire family loves this easy chicken tenders recipe and it has also been popular with guests! With just 4 ingredients and a few seasonings, you can easily make these chicken tenders with 5 minutes prep time and then about 15 minutes to fry them.
Chicken Tenders Recipe And Quick and Easy Meal Plan!
Tips:
Cool weather is on its way, which means yummy soups and stews. If your children’s soup is too hot for them, add a few frozen vegetables to it. As the veggies cook, it cools down the soup.
For a quick dessert that’s a little different, top a brownie with ice cream. Then top it with chocolate syrup mixed with chunky peanut butter. You can add as little or as much as you want.
Chicken Tenders Meal Plan:
Potato Flake Chicken Tenders Recipe* Easy Vegetables* French Fries Soda Cracker Pie*
Broccoli florets Cauliflower florets Green beans, with the ends trimmed Red pepper, cut into strips Italian dressing Parmesan cheese, shredded
Instructions
Drop any amount of first three vegetables you want into boiling water and cook for 2 minutes or until they are bright in color and still crisp. Do not overcook them.
Drain immediately and rinse in cold water. Drain well.
Add pepper strips, cover and chill. Before serving toss with dressing and cheese.
You can serve this pie with just whipped cream or you could leave out the nuts and top with lemon, blueberry, cherry or any other pie filling. You can also use Ritz, graham or saltine crackers in place of soda crackers or add chocolate chips. Someone suggested spreading it with jam and sprinkling with brown sugar.
Ingredients
3 egg whites 1 cup sugar 1/2 tsp. baking powder 20 soda crackers, finely crushed 2 tsp. vanilla 1 cup pecans or nuts, chopped
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°.
Beat egg whites to stiff peaks.
Fold in all the rest of ingredients.
Spoon into a greased 9-inch pie pan
Bake 25-30 minutes.
Cool.
For more easy recipes like this chicken tenders recipe, check out our cookbooks:
This is THE BEST homemade barbecue meatballs recipe you’ll ever try! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these meatballs are quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible. Juicy, flavorful, and smothered in a tangy barbecue sauce, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish with your favorite sides, a hearty appetizer, or part of a party spread, this recipe is a must-try!
This is THE BEST homemade barbecue meatballs recipe! It is so amazingly delicious our teenage sons always beg for more! These really are THE BEST barbecue meatballs you will ever eat! This is my (Tawra) grandmother’s (Jill’s mom) recipe that she has made for more than 50 years!
These are always a HUGE hit at every get together and the best part is it takes just a few minutes to throw everything together and get it in the oven. If you add some potatoes for baking you have a delicious dinner in a just a few minutes prep time!
This barbecue meatballs recipe is a family favorite that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters! Our teenage sons can’t get enough of these scrumptious meatballs! The best part? It requires only 5-10 minutes of prep time, making it a quick and easy meal option for busy weeknights. Once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular meal rotation and simplify your dinner time routine!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Yield:30 medium meatballs
Ingredients
3 lbs. ground beef 2 cups oatmeal 2 eggs 1 tsp. onion powder or 1 Tbsp. onion, finely chopped 1 cup evaporated milk 2 tsp. salt 2 tsp. chili powder 1/2 tsp. pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°.
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and blend well.
Form into balls.
Place meatballs into a 9×13 inch pan and an 8×8 inch pan.
Pour barbecue sauce over the top of the meatballs.
Bake for 1 hour.
Barbecue Sauce
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 cups ketchup
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
2 Tbsp. liquid smoke
Combine all ingredients and mix well. Sauce may be refrigerated several weeks.
This easy and delicious barbecue meatballs recipe is from volume 1 of our cookbook:
Here are 10 canned biscuit recipes you can use to make tasty meals fast! You’ll find easy mini pizzas, apple turnovers, donuts, monkey bread and more!
Super Easy Canned Biscuit Recipes
These canned biscuit recipes are super simple recipes you can make starting with canned biscuits and they all require 5 ingredients or less to make! Canned biscuits make cheap and very versatile dough for quick and easy meals and snacks. I try to always keep some on hand. Our kids especially love to make their own creations and the canned biscuit recipes make it super easy! Watch out for the POP, though! LOL
(Of course, if your kids are making their own, make sure to supervise them so that they don’t get burned.)
This easy mini pizzas recipe is one of my kids favorite canned biscuit recipes! It’s super easy for them to roll out the canned biscuit dough, add their favorite toppings and bake! Older kids can make these themselves and everyone can have the toppings they want on their own mini pizzas.
1 can biscuits 1/2-3/4 cup spaghetti or pizza sauce 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese of your choice) toppings (optional, as desired)
Here are some toppings you might like:
pepperoni sausage hamburger mushrooms olives peppers or any other pizza topping
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°.
Open the can of biscuits and lay them about 2-3 inches apart on a cookie sheet.
Use a Silpat or grease the cookie sheet so they don’t stick.
Flatten the biscuits with the palm of your hand.
Spread about 2-3 teaspoons of sauce on top of each biscuit.
Then top with desired pizza toppings and cheese.
Bake 10-12 minutes, until the edges are brown.
Notes
This homemade pizza recipe is easy for kids to make. Of course, they need to be careful and I highly recommend that you put the pizzas in the oven for younger kids so they don’t burn themselves. Our middle schooler loves to make his own mini pizzas for weekend lunches or after school snacks! Of course, they need to be careful and I highly recommend that you put the pizzas in the oven for younger kids so they don’t burn themselves. Our middle schooler loves to make his own mini pizzas for weekend lunches or after school snacks!
This fancy dinner bread recipe makes an easy and tasty pull apart bread to go perfectly with any meal, starting with canned biscuits! Season with your choice of seasonings matching the theme of the meal you will be serving. Your family or guests will love it!
1 stick butter or margarine 3 cans biscuits (jumbo or regular) or frozen dinner roll dough seasonings to suit the meal (for example, if serving Italian, use basil and Parmesan cheese)
Instructions
Use a decoratively shaped Bundt pan. Melt butter or margarine evenly in the bottom of the Bundt pan.
Sprinkle seasonings.
Place the biscuits in standing on end, like stacking dimes, one at a time, to allow seasonings and butter to ooze between each one.
Bake as directed on the can. Then simply turn out onto a serving plate, and VOILA! –a beautiful bread ring.
Notes
You can use cheddar cheese and jalapeño for Mexican, brown sugar and cinnamon for pull-apart cinnamon buns, rosemary, olive oil and olives for Italian or Greek, dried tomatoes and olive oil or ANY assortment you can think of!
This easy garlic knots recipe is a simple canned biscuit recipe with just 4 ingredients. These garlic knots are delicious, especially served with Italian themed meals and they take very little prep time. In addition to the basic recipe, you can add any herbs you like, including dried oregano, dried basil, and/or dried parsley.
1 can Grands biscuits 1/4 cup butter, melted garlic powder herbs of your choice (dried oregano, dried basil, and/or dried parsley, optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°.
Roll each biscuit into a log about 6-8 inches long.
Twist into a knot.
Spread butter over the top and sprinkle with garlic powder.
Bake for 10-15 minutes.
Canned Biscuit Recipes – Easy Desserts
This easy apple turnover recipe can be used to make apple turnovers as well as peach, cherry, blueberry and more! This is another of our tasty canned biscuit recipes you can make for a quick and tasty dessert anytime! It’s also a perfect sweet treat for parties or to include in packed lunches!
This homemade apple turnover recipe is so easy and delicious that you’ll be tempted to try to make it with lots of other fruits! This recipe is a great way to use apples or other summer leftovers!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1 can apple pie filling* 1 tsp. apple pie spice (or 1/2 tsp. of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg and cloves)* 1 can refrigerator biscuits 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine, melted 1/2 cup sugar with 1–2 tsp. cinnamon (combined)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°.
Add the apple pie spice to the fruit filling.
Using a knife, slice apple slices in the can into small chunks. (I add the spices into the can and press the apples against the can with the knife to cut them to avoid dirtying a bowl.)
Flatten the biscuits with a rolling pin or your hand into 4″ circles.
Add 1 slightly rounded Tbsp. of pie filling into the center of each biscuit.
Wet edges of biscuit with milk. Fold in half and seal well. Prick tops with fork.
Dip in melted butter and then into sugar and cinnamon mix.
Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake 10 minutes or until brown.
Notes
Variation: Add raisins to the pie filling and/or serve with cheddar cheese.
*If you like, you can make cherry turnovers or any other fruit turnovers using the same recipe – Apple, peach, cherry or blueberry are all good options.
When using the other flavored fillings, you can leave out the apple pie spices. You can add other spices from your favorite pie recipe if you prefer, like a pinch of cinnamon to the peach or almond flavoring for the cherry pie. You don’t have to add anything if you don’t want.
This easy 2 ingredient cinnamon roll cheesecake bake recipe turns refrigerated cinnamon rolls into a warm, creamy dessert with almost no work! It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an easy sweet treat when you need something fast.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1 (12.4 oz.) can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing) About 1/2 of a container of prepared cheesecake filling
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a lightly greased 8×8-inch baking dish or pie plate.
Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over the tops of the cinnamon rolls.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
Let cool for 5 minutes. Warm the icing included with the cinnamon rolls, if needed, and drizzle it over the top before serving.
Notes
You can serve this warm as-is or refrigerate leftovers and enjoy them chilled like cheesecake.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped pecans before baking for extra flavor, if desired.
2 cans Pillsbury Grands Type Biscuits 1/2 cup sugar 1 cup blueberries 1/2 cup butter, melted 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup powdered sugar 2-3 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 Tbsp. lemon zest
Instructions
Grease a loaf or bundt pan. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Cut biscuits into quarters.
Add sugar and lemon zest in a bowl.
Add biscuit pieces and coat with sugar mixture.
Place half the biscuits in pan and half blueberries.
Add rest of biscuits and blueberries.
Stir together butter and brown sugar. Top biscuits with brown sugar mixture.
Bake 40 minutes until browned.
Let cool 10 minutes, turn onto place.
Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle glaze on monkey bread.
If you love canned biscuit recipes for their simplicity, try this easy and tasty 3 ingredient donuts recipe! It makes fresh and delicious homemade donuts in just a few minutes and is so easy that our older kids make it themselves. You can top with powdered sugar or one of the donut glaze recipes below!
8oz. bittersweet chocolate chips or chocolate chopped into roughly even pieces8 Tbsp. (1 stick) butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
Place the chocolate into a microwave safe bowl.
Microwave, stirring every 20 seconds, until mostly melted.
Add the butter and stir. Use immediately.
Drizzle glaze on your donuts or dip the donuts in the glaze.
Canned Biscuit Recipes – Cheeseburger Themed!
This easy 4 ingredient cheeseburger rolls recipe is my son’s favorite of the canned biscuit recipes! He loves cheeseburger rolls and these are much quicker to make than our regular recipe because you don’t have to make the dough first. If you need a great easy lunch or dinner recipe sure to please your family, this one is sure to satisfy!
4 Ingredient Cheeseburger Rolls Recipe
1 can Grands Biscuits ¼ lb. hamburger 1 tsp. seasoned salt (or to taste) cheddar cheese, grated
Separate each biscuit into two halves to create an upper and lower circle. Roll into sixteen 3-inch circles*. In a saucepan, brown hamburger. Drain. Add seasoned salt, to taste. Put 1 tablespoon hamburger mixture and 1 tablespoon of cheese in the center of the 8 circles. Then press another circle on top and seal the edges. Bake at 350° for 10-15 minutes (until golden brown).
These are great for families and kids and taste great when topped with a little butter while they’re still warm enough to melt it! Yummy!
This 4 ingredient cheeseburger bowls recipe is an easy recipe for tasty cheeseburger flavored biscuit bowls that you can make with just a few minutes’ work! They are super easy to make and families and kids love them!
Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe
1 can Grands Biscuits ¼ lb. hamburger 1 tsp. seasoned salt (or to taste) cheddar cheese, grated
Roll biscuits into eight 3-inch circles*. Grease a muffin tin or use muffin liners. Press biscuits into muffin tin. In a saucepan, brown hamburger. Drain. Add onion salt, garlic salt, salt and pepper. Put 1 tablespoon hamburger mixture and 1 tablespoon cheese into the center of each of the 8 biscuit bowls. Bake at 350° for 10-15 minutes (until golden brown).
Canned Biscuit Recipes – Pull Apart Breads
This easy 4 ingredient monkey bread recipe is a quick and tasty pull apart bread you can make with canned biscuits! Slightly crunchy on the outside and soft and gooey in the center, this easy pull apart bread is super popular with my kids and their friends! If you need an easy sweet treat for a snack or party, you definitely need to try this!
Easy Monkey Bread Recipe
1 can Grands biscuits 1 cup nuts (optional) ½ cup margarine, melted 1 cup sugar 1 Tbsp. cinnamon
Cut biscuits into quarters. Mix sugar and cinnamon. Dip rolls in margarine and sugar mix. Sprinkle ½ cup nuts in bottom of a greased bundt* pan. Layer rolls, then nuts, then more rolls, etc. Pour the remainder of the sugar mix and margarine over the rolls. Let rise in the refrigerator overnight.
Bake at 350° for 25 minutes. When done, invert onto a plate or serving platter. Serves 6-8.
*You could also use a loaf pan. Just bake for 40-45 minutes.
Inspired by a cherished family recipe, this quick and easy 4-ingredient sticky buns recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for busy days or when you’re craving something sweet without the hassle. This is one of our all-time favorite canned cinnamon roll recipes!
Author:Jill Cooper
Ingredients
1 can walmart cinnamon rolls
Sticky Bun Topping
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 Tbsp. butter or margarine, melted
1/3 cup whipping cream
nuts, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°.
Mix topping ingredients and spread out evenly in the bottom of an 8 or 9-inch baking pan.
Place canned cinnamon rolls on top of the topping ingredients.
Bake for 15 minutes.
Cool 5 minutes before turning onto a plate.
Notes
I mix the topping ingredients in the baking pan to use fewer dishes. I always try to reduce the dishes I will have to wash. ;-)
This 5 ingredient pizza monkey bread recipe is one of our more unusual canned biscuit recipes. It is very similar to regular monkey bread, but is filled with tasty pizza ingredients. This is a great way to get a pizza flavor without the difficulty of having to roll out dough! It makes a tasty appetizer or snack!
Pizza Monkey Bread
Garlic butter 1 can Grands biscuits Sliced pepperoni Cubes of Mozzarella cheese Pizza or Marinara sauce
Either sauté some garlic cloves in butter or add a little garlic powder to some melted butter and brush the inside of a bundt pan with it. Cut biscuits into quarters the size of a golf ball and flatten into a circle big enough to lay a pepperoni slice and a half inch cube of cheese (2-3 inches). Bring up edges and seal. Layer in the bundt pan. Bake at 400° for about 30-35 minutes. Serve with sauce.
For more easy recipes that are just as quick and easy as these canned biscuit recipes, check out our cookbooks:
You can make easy freezer meals without all the trouble so many people cause themselves! Here are some easy ideas how to make freezer meal prep much simpler! Don’t overcomplicate it! After all, you want to spend less time in the kitchen and still get great meals on the table! Here’s how!
Easy Freezer Meals Made Simpler!
We often get asked about how to make easy freezer meals. Most people intuitively know that the kind of freezer meal prep that many others promote is unnecessarily time consuming and difficult.
I will be honest and say that Mom and I don’t do freezer meals in the way you might expect – and it’s SO much simpler to think of freezer meals in the way that we do it. We’ll be sharing some easy tips today to prepare freezer meals without spending a lot of extra time in the kitchen, and these meals will be much fresher and adaptable to your needs.
Most of the time people pre-cook their freezer meals, put them in the freezer and then warm them up later… and it tastes nasty! The other con that I’ve seen with the freezer gurus is that they spend 4-8 hours preparing 20-50 meals, wearing themselves out making all these meals in one day! Often, they recruit friends and family and even need to arrange for child care so that they have the time to put together all those meals all at once. And then there’s a massive cleanup effort required behind the scenes, after you’re tired and worn out!
But make ahead freezer meals can be so much easier and not require a major physical collapse or anxiety medicine when you’re finished! Most of our meals take 15-20 minutes to prepare so why waste your time and energy wearing yourself making a bunch of freezer meals.
STOP THE FREEZER MEAL MADNESS!
We are going to share some of favorite easy freezer meals with you. We’ll show you how to make them taste like they are homemade and how to do it so you don’t completely wear yourself out in the process.
Freezer Meal Tip #1: Freeze Ingredients
This is the way I make my freezer meals. I will brown 10 pounds of hamburger at once (don’t forget 70/30 IS THE CHEAPEST!) :-).
Then I will package 1/2 pound portions into fold top sandwich bags and then put those in a freezer bag. Freezer bags are expensive, but if you use the fold top bags inside the freezer bags the freezer bags can be reused but you don’t have any mess!
Some of the individual ingredients I freeze are:
browned hamburger
shredded chicken (roast a chicken, shred leftovers, package and freeze)
shredded pork (prepare the same as chicken)
shredded roast
chicken breast in marinade
bananas, chopped
salsa, homemade from garden, drain before using
frozen veggies or veggies from the garden already chopped up like onions and peppers
any food item that is left over that I don’t want to waste
When you freeze the individual ingredients instead of entire meals, then you just have to pull it out and add the other ingredients and in 5 minutes or less you have dinner cooking and you can be on to other things.
This is especially helpful because you can customize your meals based on what you want on any given day and the individual ingredient packs take up a lot less space than fully prepared meals.
Freezer Meal Tip #2: Cook your Freezer Meals in the Oven or, if you have to, the Crockpot.
Crockpot freezer meals are overrated! Sure, you can cook your freezer meals in a slow cooker, but there’s a better way!
Neither of us are fans of crockpots, but I know a lot of people are. Here’s the thing: If you cook your freezer meals in the oven they will taste 100% better! I only use my crockpot for is broth, soups and roasts in the summer. EVERYTHING ELSE gets cooked in the oven. The oven is a VERY safe way to cook and your food tastes SOOO much better when cooked in the oven!
The secret oven trick:
There is a secret that most people under 50 don’t know. The trick to have having moist delicious food in the oven is to cook at a low temperature and very slow! Cook your food in the oven for 8 hours at 225° and it will be moist and juicy!
People are afraid that if you cook it at that low a temperature in the oven, the food will grow bacteria and you’ll die of food poisoning BUT did you know that a crockpot on low cooks at just 200° and on high, it cooks at 300°?
Save your crockpot for soups, stews and broths and cooking in the hot part of summer when you don’t want to heat the house. The other 9 months of the year, USE YOUR OVEN to cook your freezer meals (or any meals) and your food will taste 100 times better!
Most ovens actually cost less to run than a crockpot. A crockpot stays running the entire time but an oven cycles on and off as needed to maintain the temperature and uses less energy than a crockpot.
Freezer Meal Tip #3: Stop Doing Big Freezer Cooking Days!
Seriously! Big freezer cooking parties are crazy time consuming! They DON’T actually save you any time and instead just wear you out!
Here’s a much easier way to do it. On the days that you cook, just make a double, triple or quadruple batch. It doesn’t take any longer than cooking a single batch. Then, just dish the extra batches into separate containers and freeze. Then you’ll have 2-4 additional meals ready to go when you’re in a hurry.
When I make meatballs, I don’t just make tonight’s meatballs. I quadruple the batch and make up meatballs to have for the next month. Often I separate the extra before adding a sauce so I can choose to make a different flavor for the next meal.
When I make green chili (one of the few precooked freezer meals I make), I quadruple the batch and then, when we want green chili, I can just pull it out of the freezer, heat up and add my fixings. If I make a Shepherd’s Pie, I will make 2 or 3 of them and only bake one. I will freeze the others unbaked and then pull them out and bake them when needed. This makes them taste much fresher.
Using these freezer meal methods, I only really “cook” 1-2 times per week! And with no significant extra effort on the cooking days! One or two nights per week, I will “cook” and freeze the extra meals. Two or three nights per week, we will pull out freezer meal ingredients or the full freezer meals, put them in the oven, and in less than 5 minutes dinner is ready. Then the other nights are leftover nights or every man for himself!
Most families have a small number of favorite meals and this method allows you to make these meals in bulk at a time when you’re already cooking them, so you don’t spend any extra time. Then you can use all that extra time you would have been making a huge over-complicated production to do something you really want to be doing!
Freezer Meal Bonus Tip
When you get ready to freeze you pre-made dinners, such as Shepherd’s Pie or enchiladas, line your baking pan with foil, put in your freezer meal dinner, cover with more foil and freeze. Then, when it’s frozen, take it out of the pan, put the foil meal packet in a freezer bag and label.
Then, when you’re ready to cook your freezer meal, just put it back in the same pan. There’s no reason to waste money on foil pans.
Make Ahead Freezer Meal Recipes – Meals That Freeze Well
This easy homemade meatloaf recipe makes a yummy main dish that is super versatile. Most families love homemade meatloaf and it can be the basis for lots of different tasty meal variations. It’s also a great recipe to use for freezer meals!
This easy meatloaf recipe is a super delicious traditional meatloaf recipe that is easy to make with just 5 minutes’ prep time! This is an easy family dinner idea that everyone loves!
Yield:6 servings
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs. ground beef 1 cup milk 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. dry mustard 1/4 tsp. pepper 3/4 cup quick cooking oatmeal or 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs 1 egg 1/4 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. onion powder 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°.
Mix the ground beef and all other ingredients together except the ketchup.
Put the meat mixture into a loaf pan.
Spread ketchup over the top.
Bake 1 hour or until done.
This is THE BEST homemade barbecue meatballs recipe! The recipe makes a quick and easy meal that’ll be a huge hit with families and kids and it’s super easy to make in bulk to use for freezer meals.
These barbecue meatballs are my grandmother’s recipe that she has made for more than 50 years! They’re always a HUGE hit at every get together and the best part is that it only takes a few minutes to throw everything together and get it in the oven. If you add some potatoes for baking you have a delicious dinner in a just a few minutes prep time!
If you’re using this recipe to make freezer meals, you might want to put the barbecue sauce on only part of the batch. Then if you like, you can use the extra meatballs for a different meal altogether when you take it out of the freezer.
This barbecue meatballs recipe is a family favorite that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters! Our teenage sons can’t get enough of these scrumptious meatballs! The best part? It requires only 5-10 minutes of prep time, making it a quick and easy meal option for busy weeknights. Once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular meal rotation and simplify your dinner time routine!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Yield:30 medium meatballs
Ingredients
3 lbs. ground beef 2 cups oatmeal 2 eggs 1 tsp. onion powder or 1 Tbsp. onion, finely chopped 1 cup evaporated milk 2 tsp. salt 2 tsp. chili powder 1/2 tsp. pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°.
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and blend well.
Form into balls.
Place meatballs into a 9×13 inch pan and an 8×8 inch pan.
Pour barbecue sauce over the top of the meatballs.
Bake for 1 hour.
Barbecue Sauce
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 cups ketchup
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
2 Tbsp. liquid smoke
Combine all ingredients and mix well. Sauce may be refrigerated several weeks.
This homemade pizza dough recipe makes it easy to make tasty pizza dough at home. We also have pizza recipes to top off your homemade pizza with your favorite pizza toppings! If you like making freezer meals, this homemade pizza dough is a great option, as you can make it ahead of time and freeze for up to 6 months!
This green chile recipe makes a tasty light meal when eaten with tortillas or poured over rice. You can also use it to top a lot of different Mexican themed dishes! Mike and I especially love it as a meal. I do often pre-cook this recipe and freeze and it’s a super easy freezer meal any time I’m not feeling well. It’s super delicious!
Thicken with flour or cornstarch so it is like a thick soup.
Spoon about 1/4 cup into the center of a flour tortilla.
Roll up tortilla.
Top with more green chile.
Sprinkle with cheese, lettuce and tomato.
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.
This homemade pizza or spaghetti sauce recipe makes a yummy homemade sauce to go with your homemade pizza or pasta of your choice! It’s super easy to make big batches for make ahead freezer meals. Get the recipe here along with lots of other freezer meal recipes and ideas for making freezer meals simpler!
1 onion, chopped 1/2lb. Italian sausage 2 (16 oz.) cans stewed tomatoes, chopped, with juice 1 (8 oz.) can tomato paste
salt to taste 1 clove garlic, pressed, or garlic powder (to taste) 1 bay leaf 2 tsp. Italian Seasoning
Instructions
Crumble sausage in a 2-quart saucepan.
Brown the sausage with the onion.
Drain off the fat.
Add the remaining ingredients.
Simmer for 1 hour. Remove bay leaf before serving.
This Mexican 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!
This Mexican hamburger casserole recipe is an easy hamburger casserole with a moderately spicy Mexican theme. It’s quick and easy to make and perfect for families!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
Units
1/2 to 1 lb. ground beef* 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 small can tomato sauce 1 small can green chiles, chopped 8 to 16oz. cheese, grated* 12 corn tortillas
green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 300°.
Brown the ground beef in a frying pan.
Drain.
Add the soup, tomato sauce and chiles.
In a casserole dish or baking pan, layer the tortillas, meat mixture and cheese.
Bake for 30-45 minutes.
Garnish with green onions or cilantro before serving.
Notes
This recipe is very flexible. You can adjust the hamburger and cheese to what you have on hand. I use cheddar cheese but you can use Monterey Jack, Mexican mix or any combination of cheese you want.
You can also add other Mexican themed ingredients like chopped onions or black olives.
This maidrite loose meat sandwich recipe is one of the recipes I do precook and freeze. It’s a tasty recipe similar to Sloppy Joe but with a different, milder taste. It’s an easy freezer meal idea to make ahead and freeze.
6lbs. ground beef8 slices bread, cubed
3cupsmilk1 1/2cuptomato juice4 eggs
onion powder (to taste) or 1 cup chopped onion
salt (to taste)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 300°.
Mix all ingredients together.
Pour into three 9×13 inch baking pans.
Bake at 300° for 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours (until done). Stir frequently.
Serve with pickles on hamburger buns. You can also serve on bread in the same way you serve Sloppy Joes.
Notes
You can halve the recipe, and it freezes very well.
This shepherd’s pie recipe is an easy way to use leftovers and is very flexible. You don’t have to use the ingredients exactly as listed. You can add more vegetables or meat if you want. It is perfect for freezer meals – one of those meals you can have ready to pop in the oven in just a few minutes with very little work.
The next time you have mashed potatoes and gravy, plan on making a little extra or use the leftovers to make this Shepherd’s Pie recipe the next day. You can keep cooked ground beef in the freezer to use and use canned gravy to make things go really fast if you don’t already have leftover gravy.
1lb. ground beef1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (10 1/2 oz.) can beef gravy
1cup frozen mixed veggies1/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
salt and pepper to taste
2 1/2cupsmashed potatoes
Instructions
Preheat Oven To 350°.
Brown the beef with the onion and garlic. Drain.
Add the rest of the ingredients except the potatoes.
Place into a greased 1 1/2 quart baking dish.
Spread the mashed potatoes over the top.
Bake, uncovered for 30 minutes, until heated through.
Notes
You could add some butter cracker bread crumbs or cheese to it for a little extra if you want.
This easy homemade enchiladas recipe is one of our family’s favorite recipes! This quick and easy meal is one of my go to recipes and it’s easily adaptable! It’s easy to make ahead a little extra as a freezer meal and heat it up later when you don’t have a lot of time!
6–8 tortillas, warmed 1 cup Cheddar cheese 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese 1/2 onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 can of enchilada sauce or homemade (see below)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350º.
Mix Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, onion and garlic.
Place enchilada sauce in a bowl.
Dip 1 tortilla into sauce.
Place in greased 9×9 inch pan.
Spoon about 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture down the center of each tortilla.
Roll up and tuck in the ends; place seam sides down.
Repeat with the rest of the tortillas.
Top with the remaining enchilada sauce.
Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
Bake covered until the cheese is melted and bubbly (about 40 minutes).
Enchilada Sauce Recipe
1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce 1 Tbsp. chili powder 5 Tbsp. green pepper, chopped (optional) 1/2 tsp. dried oregano 2 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt (to taste) 1/4 tsp. cumin
Combine all of the enchilada sauce ingredients in a saucepan.
Mix well.
Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened. Makes 2 cups of enchilada sauce.
Notes
Variations/Add-ins
You can modify this recipe with any of your favorite ingredients. Here are some great flavors you can add!
Shredded leftover chicken in for chicken enchiladas
Learn how to make hummus with this easy hummus recipe that you can make in just 5 minutes! This smooth and delicious hummus is perfect for dipping veggies, pita bread, spreading on sandwiches and more!
How to Make Hummus – A Delicious and Healthy Recipe!
Here’s an easy hummus recipe you can make at home from scratch in just 5 minutes! If you don’t know how to make hummus, you will love this quick and easy recipe! Perfect for dipping veggies, pita bread, or spreading on sandwiches, this homemade hummus recipe will become your go-to snack in no time! It’s so easy to make and you’ll save a lot of money making it homemade instead of buying it pre-made at the store.
Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern garlic flavored bean dip that is often served in restaurants alongside Greek Gyros and other Mediterranean food. Its main ingredient is chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans. Hummus makes a tasty spread for sandwiches and is a healthy and delicious snack food.
Good news for gluten-free eaters: this hummus recipe is simple, delicious, and entirely gluten free!
You will find the recipe, a video demonstration of how to make hummus and answers to your hummus questions!
What Does Hummus Taste Like
Hummus is a tasty Mediterranean bean dip spread that has a unique and delicious flavor. A plain hummus will be rich and slightly salty with a distinct garlic flavor and a dash of paprika, but you can easily add other ingredients to give it a slightly different flavor.
Other popular add ins include roasted red pepper, extra roasted garlic, black or green olives, kalamata olives, pine nuts, lemon, hot peppers like jalapeno peppers.
What To Dip In Hummus
Hummus makes a perfect sandwich spread, but it also makes a delicious dip for vegetables and more! Here are some things you might want to dip in hummus:
slices of pita bread
pita chips
butter crackers (like Ritz crackers)
pretzels
corn chips or potato chips
sliced bell pepper strips
baby carrots (or regular carrot sticks)
cut fresh broccoli
cucumbers (You can cut them into round slices or cucumber sticks.)
celery
apples
Hummus FAQ
What Are Chickpeas? Are Garbanzo Beans Chickpeas?
Yes, garbanzo beans are a specific variety of chickpeas, so whichever name is on the package, you can use them for hummus. The chickpea is a key ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, used in hummus and other dishes. Chickpeas are a complete protein, which makes them a particularly healthy food.
Can I use Chickpeas From A Can?
Yes. Although you can use canned or fresh chickpeas, I generally use canned ones because they are easy to use and don’t require any special preparation. Since this is an easy hummus recipe, I hate to make it more complicated than it needs to be. ;-) I also like to use a little of the juice from the chickpeas when I blend them to make the blending easier.
What is Tahini – Can I make hummus without tahini in this recipe?
Tahini is a nutty paste made from ground and roasted sesame seeds. It is often an ingredient in Mediterranean dishes, including hummus. Tahini is optional in our easy hummus recipe. I personally don’t like the flavor of Tahini, so I don’t use it. If you’re wondering how to make hummus without tahini, you can make our recipe below and just leave it out!
Here’s an easy hummus recipe that you can make in just 5 minutes using a few simple ingredients you already have on hand! This smooth and delicious hummus is perfect for dipping veggies, pita bread, spreading on sandwiches and more!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1 (15 oz.) can chickpeas or 1 1/2 cups chickpeas, cooked 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon) 1/4 cup tahini, well stirred (optional) 1 small garlic clove, 1 roasted garlic clove, or 1 tsp. garlic powder (or more, to taste) 2 Tbsp. olive oil, plus more for serving* 1/2 tsp. cumin salt (to taste) 2–3 Tbsp. water dash paprika (for serving)
Instructions
Mix everything together except the paprika in a blender, food processor, or use a stick blender.
Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed for a creamier texture.
Let sit at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika.
Notes
If I don’t have lemons or lemon juice handy, I like to use these True Lemon Packets. I frequently use them for cooking instead of lemon because they are so much easier.
This easy hummus recipe is naturally gluten-free.
To make preparation extra easy, I like to use a stick blender.
*Olive oil is traditionally used, but bacon grease adds a smoky depth of flavor.
The recipe calls for salt, but I use my homemade seasoned salt which is a mixture of salt, garlic powder and onion powder.
You can divide the hummus into individual portions and store in the freezer for quick grab-and-go snacks.
To make it extra fancy, garnish with with green onions or roasted garlic.
Optional Seasonings:
taco seasoning
roasted red peppers
sprinkle paprika on top
This Easy Hummus Recipe is from our Dining On A Dime Cookbook, Volume 2.
[dining]
This post contains affiliate links. When you order something from Amazon with the above links, a small portion goes to us, and we use it to bring you more recipes, tips, and ideas! Thanks for your support!
This easy sour cream blueberry muffin recipe makes moist and delicious blueberry muffins! It’s a classic, foolproof recipe that everyone is sure to love!
Author:Jill Cooper
Ingredients
2 cupsbaking mix (Bisquick) 3/4 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 cup (8 oz.) sour cream 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°.
Mix biscuit mix, sugar, eggs, and sour cream in order just until combined.
Fold in blueberries.
Pour into greased muffin tins 3/4 full.
Sprinkle with a little sugar on top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Notes
Take these muffins to the next level. When you first take them out of the oven, dip the tops into melted butter and then in a mix of cinnamon and sugar.
Feel free to substitute the blueberries with other fruits like raspberries or blackberries for a delicious twist.
To make these muffins even more indulgent, you can add a streusel topping made with flour, brown sugar, and butter before baking.
These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Tips:
When using frozen blueberries in things like muffins or pancakes, do not thaw the berries before adding them to the batter.
When you just have a little dab of tea left over in the pot or pitcher and you want to make another pot, pour the leftover tea into an ice cube tray and freeze. Then use the tea cubes in place of ice cubes the next time you make ice tea.
For years, many people used baking soda in their refrigerators to help absorb odors, including myself. I always wondered why my refrigerator still smelled if something accidentally didn’t get covered properly. I kept thinking “This soda isn’t working” but “they” said it would help so I kept using it. I recently heard that experts have discovered baking soda really doesn’t absorb as well as we are led to believe but charcoal does a much better job. The charcoal used in aquariums works the best but you can also try placing a few charcoal briquets in the refrigerator to see if that will help. (Don’t use the easy light ones with lighter fluid built in…)The main way to reduce bad odors in the refrigerator is to really cover everything well.
These easy gourmet chocolate recipes are delicious recipes for fudge, truffles, candy bark and more made with luxurious gourmet chocolate. These recipes are perfect for when you want something elegant, indulgent, and impressive that resembles something from a candy shop, but only requires a few minutes of work.
If you love rich, creamy chocolate and simple recipes that deliver truly impressive results, this collection of Easy Gourmet Chocolate Recipes is for you! Every recipe in this post is made with high-quality gourmet chocolate — including ruby chocolate and blonde chocolate — which have a smoother texture, deeper flavor, and more luxurious melt than regular baking chips or candy melts. The result is candy that tastes like it came straight from a specialty chocolate shop, even though the methods are surprisingly easy.
These recipes are perfect when you want something a little more special than everyday desserts. While many of my other candy recipes focus on using more budget-friendly, everyday ingredients, this collection highlights what happens when you start with premium chocolate. You’ll find truffles, fudge, and candy bark that are rich, creamy, and beautifully indulgent, yet still approachable for home cooks of any skill level.
Even though the ingredients feel upscale, the process stays simple — no candy thermometers, no complicated techniques, and no stress. These treats are ideal for gifting, holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want to enjoy chocolate that truly tastes gourmet. If you’ve ever wanted to make candy that feels luxurious without being difficult, these easy gourmet chocolate recipes are the perfect place to start!
This ruby chocolate candy bark recipe makes a stunningly pink, sweet-and-salty treat that looks fancy but takes just minutes to make. With creamy ruby chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and a sprinkle of sea salt, it’s perfect for gifting or snacking.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1-2 cups ruby chocolate chips
1/2 cup shelled pistachios (to taste)
Sea salt (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 170°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spread the ruby chocolate chips in an even layer on the parchment.
Place in the oven for 5–10 minutes, just until the chocolate is soft and glossy (not fully melted).
Use a spatula to gently spread the softened chocolate into an even layer.
Sprinkle with pistachios and sea salt, if using.
Let the bark cool and harden completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Once set, break into pieces and serve or store in an airtight container.
This ruby chocolate truffles recipe makes rich, creamy candy truffles with a naturally pink color that feel fancy but are shockingly easy to make. Perfect for gifting, holidays, or treating yourself without a lot of effort!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
3 cups ruby chocolate chips 2 Tbsp. whipping cream 2 Tbsp. butter. 1/4 cup cocoa powder or powdered freeze-dried fruit (for coating)
Instructions
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the ruby chocolate, whipping cream, and butter.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each round, until completely melted and smooth.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop and roll.
Scoop out small portions and roll into balls using your hands.
Roll each truffle in cocoa powder or powdered freeze-dried fruit until coated.
Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
For easier rolling, lightly dust your hands with cocoa powder.
Try coatings like crushed freeze-dried raspberries, strawberries, or powdered sugar for different flavors.
These truffles also make great gifts when packed in small boxes or jars.
This ruby chocolate fudge recipe makes rich, creamy, and naturally pink fudge — an impressive treat that comes together with minimal effort. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect for gifting, holidays, or quick sweet cravings!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
3 cups ruby chocolate, chopped or chips
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
1 Tbsp. butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 tsp. vanilla (optional)
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the ruby chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each round, until completely melted and smooth.
Mix in the vanilla.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or until firm.
Lift out using the parchment, cut into squares, and serve.
Notes
For clean cuts, chill well and use a sharp knife wiped between slices.
Add chopped pistachios, freeze-dried fruit, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling.
Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
This blonde chocolate cream cheese truffles recipe makes rich, creamy candy shop quality truffles with a smooth center and a silky blonde chocolate shell. They look fancy enough for gifts or parties but are surprisingly easy to make!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
4 oz, cream cheese, softened 1 Tbsp. powdered sugar 8 oz. blonde chocolate, melted 1 Tbsp. butter Optional toppings: sea salt flakes or toasted nuts
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Chill the mixture for 15–20 minutes, just until firm enough to handle.
Scoop and roll into small balls (about ½ inch) and place on a parchment-lined tray.
Freeze for 20–30 minutes, or until very firm.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the blonde chocolate and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Dip each frozen cream cheese ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely, then place back onto the parchment.
Sprinkle with sea salt or nuts before the coating sets.
Chill until firm, then store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
Use a fork or dipping tool to make coating easier and neater.
For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla or a pinch of salt to the cream cheese mixture.
These truffles make great holiday or gift-box treats when stored chilled.
This blonde chocolate fudge recipe makes a rich, creamy, and unbelievably easy gourmet fudge that is decadent and delicious! With its smooth texture and sweet vanilla flavor, it’s the kind of treat that disappears fast.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
3 cups blonde chocolate chips or wafers
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
1 container marshmallow fluff
1 tsp. vanilla
Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the blonde chocolate and sweetened condensed milk.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until completely melted and smooth.
Stir in the marshmallow fluff, vanilla, and salt until fully combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Lift out using the parchment, cut into squares, and store in the refrigerator.
Notes
For extra flavor, sprinkle flaky sea salt or chopped nuts over the top before chilling.
For cleaner cuts, wipe your knife between slices.
This fudge makes a great make-ahead dessert or giftable treat.
Why spend a fortune on desserts when you can make 7 Easy & Delicious No Bake Peanut Butter Dessert Recipes right at home? These quick and delicious treats deliver rich, bakery-quality flavor with simple ingredients—grab some peanut butter and start mixing up something sweet today!
Why spend a fortune at the bakery when you can make easy, irresistible peanut butter desserts right at home—no oven required? This collection of 8 Easy Peanut Butter Dessert Recipes is perfect for busy days, tight budgets, and anyone who loves rich, creamy peanut butter treats. Each recipe is simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers that indulgent, bakery-quality flavor without the hassle or high price tag.
Inside this post, you’ll find a mouthwatering mix of classics and crowd-pleasers, including homemade peanut butter cups, peanut butter balls, and a decadent No-Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake that looks impressive but couldn’t be easier. Craving something quick? Try the 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge or 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Candy—perfect for last-minute desserts or sweet cravings. There’s also peanut butter cookie dough, a creamy no-bake peanut butter pie, and rich no-bake fudge cookies with peanut butter that come together in minutes.
Whether you’re making desserts for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home, these recipes prove that homemade can be easy, affordable, and incredibly delicious. Grab a jar of peanut butter and start mixing—your sweet tooth will thank you!
Almond- Use almond butter instead of peanut butter
Another Fun Variation: Giant Peanut Butter Cup!
If you are having a hard time finding a gift for that teenage boy or a certain man in your life, make one of these homemade peanut butter cups in a pie pan and give him a giant one as his gift.
Instead of making them in small paper holders:
line a pie pan with foil, plastic wrap or wax paper.
Then spread half of the melted chocolate over the bottom of the pie pan.
Freeze in the freezer for 3-5 minutes until the chocolate is partially set up.
Spread the peanut butter filling over the chocolate.
If necessary, re-melt the remaining chocolate as above, stirring frequently.
Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling and spread evenly over the top.
Freeze for one minute or a little longer to make the chocolate set.
Once it is firm, you can remove it from the foil, plastic or wax paper. Then wrap in foil or plastic wrap and decorate any way you like for a gift. I have frequently made these for hard to buy for guys, especially teenagers and they have all absolutely loved the giant peanut butter cup!
This cream cheese peanut butter balls recipe makes the perfect no-bake treat! Smooth, creamy peanut butter, tangy cream cheese, and your favorite toppings make a rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s irresistible! Perfect for parties, holidays, or a quick snack to keep in the fridge.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter 6 oz. cream cheese, softened 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth and fluffy.
Add the powdered sugar gradually, mixing on low speed until combined. Then increase to medium-high speed and beat until light and fluffy.
Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour to firm up slightly.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray.
Using a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Chill for about 4 hours, or until firm.
Roll in your favorite toppings (such as crushed nuts, coconut, or sprinkles) or dip in melted chocolate.
Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
These cream cheese peanut butter balls make a perfect no-bake treat for holidays, parties, or anytime you want something sweet and simple!
This no-bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake recipe makes a rich, ultra-creamy cheesecake, loaded with peanut butter cup goodness—yet it’s incredibly easy to make with no oven required. Every bite tastes like a decadent, bakery-quality dessert, perfect for special occasions or an effortless crowd-pleaser at home.
Author:Tawra Kellam
Yield:1 cheesecake (springform pan)
Ingredients
1 chocolate or graham cracker pie crust (homemade or store-bought)*
1 tsp. vanilla 1 tub whipped topping or 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped
20 mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped (for the filling)
Topping
1/4-1/2 cup hot fudge ice cream topping
15 mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped (for the topping)
Instructions
Prepare a homemade chocolate or graham cracker crust in a springform pan, or use a store-bought crust.*
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
Fold in the 20 chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups listed in the filling ingredients.
Scoop the cheesecake filling into the prepared pie crust and spread evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
Before serving, drizzle the hot fudge over the top.
Sprinkle the remaining chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (the 15 chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups from the topping ingredients) over the cheesecake.
Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
*If using a store bought pie crust, make only a 1/2 batch of the pie filling.
(This recipe was inspired by and adapted from an original recipe on LiveLoveAndSugar.com )
Need an easy dessert in a hurry? This 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is creamy, melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and comes together in minutes with just three simple ingredients—making it perfect for Christmas candy trays, parties, and peanut butter cravings all year long!
1/2 cup all-purpose flour dash of salt 1/4 cup butter, softened 3 Tbsp. sugar 3 Tbsp. brown sugar 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1 Tbsp. milk 1/4 cup peanut butter 1/4 cup chocolate chips, optional
Instructions
Add the salt to the flour; Whisk to combine.
In a separate bowl, combine butter, sugar, and brown sugar.
Press into a 9×13 inch pan or deep dish pie plate.
Beat cream cheese, peanut butter and powdered sugar.
Fold in whipped topping.
Pour into crust and spread.
Chill for at least 3 hours. You can freeze, but thaw before serving.
Notes
*You can use store bought crust if you prefer (but the homemade tastes better).
Variations:
You can add less peanut butter if the flavor is overpowering.
Use a graham cracker crust for a less rich dessert.
Try making a pretzel crust for a sweet-and-salty twist.
Add a Layer of Chocolate: For an extra decadent treat, consider adding a layer of melted chocolate over the crust before adding the peanut butter filling. Simply melt some chocolate chips and spread them over the crust, then refrigerate until set before adding the filling.
Add chopped peanuts or walnuts to the filling.
Spread more whipped cream over the top of the peanut butter filling.
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings on top.
If desired, add chopped peanuts, walnuts or peanut butter cups for extra garnish.
Drizzle with chocolate ice cream topping.
Leave out the peanut butter altogether and add a couple tablespoons of cocoa. Then serve with fresh fruit like strawberries, raspberries or bananas.
Add chocolate chips along with the peanut butter.
Leave out the peanut butter and just use chocolate chips, sprinkles or crushed candies.
Peanut Butter Banana Pie: Layer sliced bananas over the crust before adding the peanut butter filling. The bananas add a fresh, fruity contrast to the rich peanut butter.
Nutella Swirl Peanut Butter Pie: Swirl in 1/2 cup of Nutella into the peanut butter filling for a delightful chocolate-hazelnut twist.
Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Pie: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top of the pie before chilling. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for an irresistible sweet-and-salty combination.
This no bake fudge cookies recipe is rich and amazingly delicious! These fudge cookies are easy to make in just a few minutes and it’s so simple that older kids can make it themselves! If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, you can leave it out and they are just as wonderful!
Author:Jill
Ingredients
1/2 cup milk 2 cups sugar 1/2 cup baking cocoa 1/2 cup butter or margarine 1/2 cup peanut butter 1 tsp. vanilla 3 cups oatmeal 1/2 cup nuts (optional)
Instructions
Before you start, cut about a 20 inch piece of wax paper. Lay it on the counter. This serves as something to drop the cookies on.
In a saucepan, mix milk, sugar, cocoa, and butter.
Bring to a boil.
Boil 1 minute. (For high altitude, let them cook 30 seconds to a minute longer.)
Remove from heat.
Stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and nuts.
Mix until peanut butter is mixed in.
Add oatmeal.
Drop by spoonfuls on the wax paper.
Let cool until set.
This process must be done a little quickly because the cookies start hardening pretty fast. If the humidity is high or you don’t boil them the right amount of time, they may not harden. Don’t panic! Just pour the mixture into a container and use as fudge sauce for ice cream. …Although my kids love eating these homemade no bake fudge cookies with spoons if they don’t get hard enough to eat as cookies!
This 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Candy recipe is incredibly easy to make—just melt, mix, and mold for a quick homemade treat. Rich, creamy, and chocolatey, it tastes like a special candy-shop indulgence with almost no effort at all. Perfect for any peanut butter lover!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1 cup peanut butter
1 (12 oz.) bag chocolate chips
1/2 package (12 oz.) white chocolate almond bark
Instructions
Add the peanut butter, chocolate chips, and white chocolate almond bark to a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring well between each, until fully melted and smooth.
Spoon or pipe the mixture into silicone candy molds.
Gently tap the molds on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Let the candy harden at room temperature, or for faster setting, place the molds on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
Optional Decoration
Once the candies are fully hardened, remove them from the molds and place on a wire rack set over parchment paper.
Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate over the top of each candy.
Add sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.
Allow the chocolate to fully set before serving or storing.
Notes
This recipe is a great way to use leftover chocolate.
Store candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for best texture.
These make great gifts, party treats, or freezer snacks!
Get ready to fall in love with these irresistible Biscoff cookies recipes! From fudgy bars and crunchy toffee to creamy truffles, these Biscoff recipes turn your favorite cookie butter into decadent, easy-to-make treats everyone will devour.
If you love the irresistible flavor of Biscoff cookies, you’re in for a treat! This collection of Biscoff cookie recipes brings together the best ways to enjoy the sweet, spiced cookie flavor you know and love, from decadent truffles and fudgy bars to crunchy toffee and creamy no-bake treats. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert for a special occasion, a homemade gift, or just a delicious snack to enjoy with your coffee, these recipes are perfect for any occasion.
Each recipe showcases the unique taste of Biscoff cookies and Biscoff spread, combining them with chocolate, butter, and other simple ingredients to create treats that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. From silky Biscoff fudge to crunchy Biscoff toffee, creamy no-bake candy bars, and indulgent Biscoff truffles, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, these desserts are simple to make and require minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Using Biscoff cookies in baking isn’t just about sweetness—it’s about adding a signature caramelized, spiced flavor that elevates every dessert. These recipes show how versatile Biscoff cookies and spread can be, whether you want to layer them in bars, fold them into creamy fillings, or coat them in rich chocolate. Perfect for holiday treats, birthday parties, or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up, these Biscoff recipes are sure to impress family and friends.
Plus, making desserts with Biscoff cookies allows you to get creative. You can swap chocolate types, add toppings like crushed cookies or nuts, or even turn them into bite-sized treats for easy sharing. Bookmark this collection and keep coming back for more, because once you start experimenting with Biscoff, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy its unique flavor.
If you’re a fan of sweet, buttery, and slightly spiced treats, these Biscoff recipes are a must-try. Dive in, grab your favorite Biscoff cookies, and start creating desserts that are as fun to make as they are delicious to eat!
This irresistible Biscoff truffles recipe combines creamy cookie butter, buttery cookie crumbs, and silky white chocolate for a melt-in-your-mouth treat everyone loves. With just a few simple ingredients, this decadent Biscoff cookie recipe looks fancy but takes almost no effort!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Yield:2 dozen truffles
Ingredients
2 cups powdered sugar 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 cup Biscoff cookie butter 1 cup Biscoff cookie crumbs (12–13 cookies; reserve 2 cookies crushed for topping) 1 tsp. vanilla 1 (12 oz.) pkg. white chocolate candy wafers or white almond bark
Instructions
Cream the butter in a mixing bowl until smooth.
Add the cookie butter, cookie crumbs, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.
Place the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and melt in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
Pour a small amount of melted white chocolate into the bottom of paper candy cups.
Add a scoop of the filling into each cup.
Pour more white chocolate on top until the filling is covered.
Sprinkle the reserved crushed cookies on top for decoration.
Let the chocolate harden at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
This easy Biscoff Toffee recipe layers crunchy Biscoff cookies with rich brown sugar toffee and gooey chocolate for a decadent, irresistible treat. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, this delicious Biscoff cookie recipe is a sweet snack that will disappear in no time!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
About 12 Biscoff cookies sliced almonds (optional) 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray, or butter the pan.
Arrange the Biscoff cookies in a single layer on the bottom.
If using, sprinkle sliced almonds over the top of the cookie layer.
In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the butter and brown sugar to a boil. Continue boiling for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour the hot mixture evenly over the cookies in the pan.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top and let them sit for a few minutes to melt.
Spread the melted chocolate smoothly over the surface.
Let the toffee cool completely, then break into pieces.
This No Bake Biscoff Candy Bars recipe layers a crunchy, buttery cookie base with a rich, creamy chocolate Biscoff topping for an irresistible treat. Quick to make and perfect for dessert or snacking, this decadent biscoff cookie recipe is sure to disappear fast!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
Biscoff Cookie Layer:
7 oz. (about 14 cookies) Biscoff or Speculoos cookies, crushed (reserve 1 cookie for topping) 1/3 cup salted butter, melted 1/2 cup Biscoff or Speculoos spread
Chocolate Biscoff Layer:
7 oz. semisweet chocolate 2 Tbsp. Biscoff or Speculoos spread 2 Tbsp. whipping cream
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray or lightly butter the pan.
In a bowl, combine the crushed cookies, melted butter, and Biscoff spread. Press the mixture evenly into the 8×8-inch pan
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate with Biscoff spread and whipping cream, stirring until smooth.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the cookie layer, spreading evenly.
Top with the reserved cookie crumbles for decoration.
Refrigerate until firm, then cut into bars and serve.
This rich and creamy biscoff fudge recipe layers smooth Biscoff spread with luscious chocolate for an indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth treat. Just like peanut butter balls, these fudgy bites are irresistible! Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself—this decadent biscoff cookie recipe is simple to make and impossible to resist!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Yield:16 pieces
Ingredients
1 cup powdered sugar 1/4 cup butter, softened 1/2 cup Biscoff spread 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup (16 oz.) chocolate candy wafers, almond bark, or chocolate chips (add 1 Tbsp coconut oil if using chips)
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray or lightly butter the pan.
Cream the butter in a mixing bowl until smooth.
Add Biscoff spread, powdered sugar, and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 20–30 second intervals, stirring frequently until smooth.
Pour half of the melted chocolate into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Spread the Biscoff filling evenly over the chocolate layer.
Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the filling, until the filling is covered.
Allow the fudge to harden completely at room temperature or in the fridge before cutting into pieces.
This Biscoff Candy Bark recipe layers crunchy Biscoff cookies with smooth white chocolate and optional toffee bits for an irresistible, no-bake treat! Perfect for gifting, dessert tables, or a sweet snack anytime, this decadent biscoff cookie recipe is easy to make and impossible to resist!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
About 14 Biscoff or Speculoos cookies, crushed (reserve 2 cookies for topping)
1 lb. white almond bark
Heath toffee bits (optional)
Instructions
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease with cooking spray (or lightly butter the pan).
Arrange the crushed Biscoff cookies in a single layer on the bottom of the pan.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white almond bark according to package directions, stirring until smooth.
Pour the melted almond bark evenly over the cookie layer.
Sprinkle the reserved crushed Biscoff cookies and optional Heath toffee bits over the top.
Lightly press the candy toppings and cookie crumbs into the melted almond bark to help them stick.
Refrigerate until firm.
Once hardened, break the bark into pieces and enjoy!
This Best Chocolate Pie Recipe is one of those recipes you read and immediately realize you have to make one. You can tell just by reading the recipe it’s going to be that good!
I love finding family recipes that I know we will return to over and over again and hand down for generations. This pie is definitely one of those recipes. Everyone loves it! Whether you are making chocolate pie for a big occasion like Thanksgiving, or you just want a cold pie to cool off after a day outside, this is going to be your go-to chocolate pie recipe.
Making this chocolate pie is incredibly easy and even fun! You’ll need a medium to large saucepan, and something to stir with. You’ll need to unwrap and break all of the candy bars first. Then, melt all of the ingredients together in the saucepan except for a half cup of heavy cream. Then you remove that mixture from the heat and add the remaining heavy cream.
Pour the chocolatey mixture into a graham cracker crust and refrigerate it for 24 hours so it sets. Finally, you smother the pie in whipped cream and serve it cold or even partially frozen! It’s the perfect cold pie for a hot summer day.
Ingredients for Chocolate Pie
Hershey’s Candy Bars with Almonds. How fun is it that you make the best chocolate pie recipe ever with candy bars! This is the perfect chance to get your kids and grandkids involved. They can unwrap the bars for you and break them up too!
Heavy Cream. It comes in a carton near the half-n-half.
Large Marshmallows. You’ll need 29 so buy the 10 ounce bag.
Graham Cracker Crust. You can buy a store-bought crust or make your own.
Whipped Topping or Whipped Cream. You can buy store-bought or make your own for this as well.
Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Chocolate Pie Recipe
Stir the mixture continuously on the stovetop until it all melts.
When you remove it from the heat and add that last half cup of heavy cream, make sure to mix it really, really well.
Switch up the crust and make a crushed chocolate cookie crust instead. It will up the chocolate factor!
Try sprinkling the whipped cream with those mini chocolate chips or festive sprinkles. It adds a fun texture.
You do not have to bake the graham cracker crust.
Once most of the marshmallows are melted, push the marshmallow blobs with a spoon to smush them into melting. They sometimes retain their shape even when mostly melted. This works when making rice crispy treats as well.
You do not have to absolutely thaw the best chocolate pie recipe to serve it from frozen. Chocolate pie is so good partially frozen! Thaw it enough it’s easy to get a fork into it, but still a little icy.
Storing The Leftovers
Keep the best chocolate pie in a covered pie container for a few days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the remaining pie whole and then slice. Slicing it frozen (or partially frozen) helps the pieces keep their shape when slicing them. Place individual slices in a freezer-quality zipper bag for long-term storage up to three months or so in the freezer. For easy single serving desserts, you can wrap individual slices in parchment paper or plastic wrap before putting them in the freezer bag. Unwrap and thaw to eat. You cannot thaw this pie in the microwave.
If you have a plastic pie keeper, you can literally just place the pie in that and freeze it whole. To freeze a whole pie without a pie keeper, place it on a cookie sheet in the freezer for several hours first, and then wrap the whole pie in parchment paper or plastic wrap. Place this in a large freezer-quality zipper bag. Unwrap to thaw in the refrigerator.
This easy broccoli raisin salad recipe makes a super tasty salad that is sure to please! This is my most favorite broccoli salad! It is the perfect blend of creamy, sweet and bacon flavors. Broccoli has never tasted so good! We make it as part of our holiday buffets and it is also a favorite when we bring to a party or get together!
1/2 lb. bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional) 6 cups chopped broccoli 1 small red onion, finely chopped 1 cup raisins 1 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup white sugar 2 Tbsp. white vinegar (optional) 1 (3 oz.) package sunflower seeds (optional)
Instructions
Mix broccoli, bacon, red onion, and raisins in a bowl.
Whisk mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar together in a bowl.
Stir the dressing into the broccoli mixture until evenly coated.
Cover bowl and refrigerate for flavors to blend, about 1 hour.
This is the BEST baked macaroni and cheese recipe! Brown and crunchy on top and smooth and creamy in the middle, you’ll get an amazing taste like the gourmet baked macaroni and cheese at your favorite restaurant for just a fraction of the price! Super delicious, this baked macaroni and cheese will please your entire family!
Macaroni and cheese is a staple food for most families with kids and there are all kinds of macaroni and cheese. From homemade to the box with powdered cheese to the box with creamy cheese, everyone has a favorite. But if you haven’t ever had baked macaroni and cheese, you’re in for a treat!
Our daughter, mega foodie that she is, particularly loves baked macaroni and cheese because it is creamy and delicious on the inside with a super tasty browned crispy top. She always wants to try this tasty food whenever she gets the chance, but it’s amazing how much it costs to buy macaroni and cheese pre-made at a restaurant.
Instead of paying $5 per serving at a restaurant, try our easy baked macaroni and cheese recipe, which you can easily make for $8 for 6-8 servings and takes less than 10 minutes of prep work!
Add a generous sprinkling of salt and the pasta to the water.
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a skillet or pot large enough to hold the pasta when it’s done.
Add the flour to the butter and stir over medium heat until the mixture is lightly browned, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the milk and whisk to remove any lumps.
Add salt and pepper.
Cook over medium-high heat until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 6 minutes.
Stir in the cheese and whisk until smooth and melted.
Turn off the heat.
When the pasta is almost done, but still firm, remove from heat and drain.
Stir the pasta into the sauce.
Bake in a greased 2 quart dish (or 8×8 inch baking pan) for 20-25 minutes, until browned and bubbly.
Sprinkle with chopped or dried parsley, if desired.
Notes
If you want your baked macaroni and cheese super creamy, you can skip baking it and just put it under the broiler to brown the top. (Keep a close eye on it.) Then serve.
If you like, you can sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over the top before baking. YUM!
This easy baked macaroni and cheese recipe is from volume 2 of our cookbook:
This easy cornish hen recipe is super simple to make and a lot faster to cook than a turkey or chicken. One Cornish hen makes a perfect meal for 2 people!
Easy Cornish Hen Recipe
This easy cornish hen recipe is super simple to make with our easy step-by-step instructions. Cornish hens are super easy to cook and a lot faster to cook than a turkey or chicken. Some people say they are more tender than chickens, but our roast chicken or roast turkey recipe is so tender, I have not personally noticed the difference in tenderness.
Cornish hens, sometimes called game hens, are a smaller variety of chicken originally from Cornwall England. They are full grown chickens, but they are a smaller breed of chicken. If you have never seen them before, they are available in the meat section of your grocery store near chickens and turkeys.
Pound for pound, Cornish hens are more expensive than chicken and turkey. Still, they are great if you don’t want leftovers or you are not able to store leftover food. A Cornish hen is a perfect serving size for two people, so it’s an easy date night meal.
Our easy cornish hen recipe calls for just 3 ingredients, but the recipe is super versatile. If you prefer to add seasonings and ingredients for additional flavor or for a bigger meal, you have a lot of options.
I usually make the basic recipe and bake with sliced potatoes, onions and carrots in the pan. This makes a delicious complete one dish meal. If you like, you can try adding additional seasonings like rosemary, oregano and thyme or things like lemon slices to give it more flavor. You can also try other vegetables like different kinds of squash. anything you might add to a roast chicken would work well with a Cornish hen recipe.
This easy cornish hen recipe is super simple to make and a lot faster to cook than a turkey or chicken. One Cornish hen makes a perfect meal for 2 people!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
Units
1–2lb. cornish hen
olive oil
seasoned salt
lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 450°. In a baking pan, place cornish hens breast side up. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with seasoned salt. If desired place potatoes, onions and carrots around hen. Place in preheated oven and turn down to 400° and bake for 45-55 minutes until golden and a meat thermometer reads 165°.
This easy crockpot candy recipe is the ultimate no-fuss treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without a lot of work! If you love easy Christmas candy recipes, you’ll love this crockpot candy! It’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to impress friends and family this holiday season.
If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to please a crowd, this easy crockpot candy recipe is exactly what you need! Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a simple snack to satisfy your chocolate cravings, this candy is rich, gooey, and packed with flavor—all without spending hours in the kitchen. Best of all, it’s made in your crockpot, so there’s minimal cleanup and almost no effort involved.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients—peanuts, white almond bark, chocolate chips, and peanut butter chips—you can create a decadent candy that tastes like it came from a candy shop. The crockpot gently melts the chocolate and almond bark while coating the peanuts in a creamy, irresistible mixture. All you have to do is stir, scoop, and let it set. Add sprinkles for a festive touch, and you’ve got a candy that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a home cook short on time, or just someone who loves easy desserts, this recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. You don’t need to be an expert chocolatier to make it look and taste amazing. Plus, it’s versatile—you can swap in your favorite nuts or even mix in mini candies for a fun twist.
In just a couple of hours, your kitchen will be filled with the sweet aroma of chocolate and peanut butter, and you’ll have a batch of homemade candy that’s perfect for gift-giving, snack time, or indulging whenever a sweet tooth strikes. This easy crockpot candy recipe proves that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most irresistible—and everyone will be asking for seconds.
This easy crockpot candy recipe is delicious and simple to make in the crockpot with just a few minutes prep. Just dump everything in, let it melt on low, and you’re done! It’s a quick, no-fuss treat that’s crunchy, chocolatey, and downright delicious, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with zero hassle!
This caramel toffee crockpot candy bark recipe is unbelievably easy to make with your crockpot! This sweet and salty candy treat blends sweet chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pretzels for a dessert that’s perfect for parties and holiday get togethers!
Author:Tawra Kellam
Ingredients
1/2 bag pretzels (enough to cover the bottom of the crockpot)
1 package milk chocolate chips
1 (24.oz.) block white almond bark
1/2 package caramel bits
toffee bits (optional)
Instructions
Place pretzels on the bottom of the crockpot.
Add the chocolate chips on top, then place the almond bark over the chocolate.
Cover and cook on LOW for 1½–2 hours, until fully melted.
Stir everything together gently.
Spread the melted mix onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Here are a bunch of traditional Thanksgiving recipes for holiday favorites like roast turkey, sweet potato casserole, homemade stuffing, turkey gravy and homemade pies all in one place!
The best news!! All of these are dairy free and gluten free recipes and they ACTUALLY TASTE GREAT! You can make this gluten free dairy free Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people for under $35! (The cost depends on how many pies you make.) Don’t let your food sensitivity hold you back! Try these recipes and enjoy Thanksgiving without paying for it later! (more…)
