Here is our easy self-rising flour recipe. Some recipes call for self-rising flour, but there’s no reason to go out and buy it pre-made. It’s super easy to make your own self-rising flour in just a few minutes using regular all-purpose flour and a few other ingredients! Here’s the easy recipe!
Most people don’t think to make your own self-rising flour, but it is easier and cheaper than buying it pre-made at the store. Self-rising flour can be used to make a lot of different recipes, but if you keep a lot more on hand than you use, the baking ingredients can get old and it can lose its potency.
If you make your own self-rising flour, you can save money and also only make the amount you expect to use. This easy self-rising flour recipe uses simple ingredients you already have at home!
Here are some of our recipes that use self rising flour:
This easy chicken curry recipe is one of my FAVORITE recipes! It is rich and full of flavor! This easy chicken curry is SUPER easy and so delicious you will wonder why you are wasting $50 to eat it in a restaurant! With just a few ingredients you can make this chicken curry in just a few minutes and your family will love it!
If you’re craving bold, delicious flavors without spending a fortune, this easy chicken curry recipe is about to become your new go-to meal! Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, this dish tastes like it came straight from a restaurant—but it costs a fraction of the price and it’s easy to make in just minutes at home.
Made with tender chicken, warm curry spices, creamy coconut milk, and optional fresh spinach, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a simple and delicious meal. With just a handful of ingredients you already have at home, you can quickly make a hearty dinner that your whole family will love—no takeout required!
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, you’ll love how simple and satisfying this dish is. Serve it over hot rice for a complete meal that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to please. My older kids all love this recipe and request it frequently. I love it because it’s so simple to make, perfect when I’m not feeling well and just want to get something on the table quickly!
This recipe is featured in our cookbook Dining On A Dime, Volume 2, where we share even more quick and budget-friendly meals your family will enjoy!
This easy chicken curry recipe is from our cookbook, Dining On A Dime, Volume 2:
Here are some easy homemade rice krispie treats recipes along with lots of variations and ideas for how to make rice krispy treats extra special. These are super easy to make and kids love them!
Homemade Rice Krispie Treats Recipe – 18 Ways To Make Rice Krispie Treats
Here are some super yummy recipes for homemade rice krispie treats including lots of yummy variations that are perfect for any occasion! Rice krispie treats are perfect for after school snacks and you can vary them for any kind of holiday party or get together!
Rice Krispie Treats Variations And Tips:
If you want to make regular Rice Krispie Treats, then just leave out the cherry gelatin powder and dark chocolate.
You could start mixing and matching all kinds of things to make these gourmet Rice Krispie Treats!
Coconut: Add 1½ cups shredded coconut.
Peanut Butter Cup: Add a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter after the marshmallows are melted.
Rocky Road: Add mini marshmallows, walnuts or almonds and chocolate chips after the marshmallows are melted.
Rainbow: Use Fruity Pebbles cereal instead of Rice Krispies.
Mint Chip: Add ½ tsp. mint extract and a few drops of green food coloring into marshmallows. Top with chocolate.
Candy: Add Reese’s Pieces, M&M’s, Twix, Rolos, Skittles or any of your favorite candies after marshmallows are melted or just press on top.
Oreo: Break up some Oreo cookies and add to the mixture after marshmallows are melted. Leave a few to press into the top.
More Rice Krispie Treats Ideas:
Drag out the good old homemade rice krispie treats recipe for the Fourth of July but try adding a new twist. Add red or blue food coloring to the melted marshmallows and then, using a large star cookie cutter, cut them into stars to pile high on a plate.Get out some of those red paper plates you bought on sale after Christmas or Valentine’s Day to serve your treats on the Fourth of July.
Here’s another twist to the rice krispie treats: Add 1/3 cup peanut butter to the melted marshmallows and substitute frosted flakes for the Rice Krispies. You now have Tony the Tiger Treats.
Instead of serving the same old rice krispie treats, add things like chocolate chips, M&M’s or nuts. You can also use different cereals like Honey Nut Cheerios, Fruit Loops or Fruity Pebbles. Of course, try to buy these in the off-brands to save.
You can also drizzle a little melted chocolate, butterscotch, white chocolate or peanut butter chips over the top of homemade rice krispie treats. By drizzling things on top of cakes or cookies like this you can save by using less compared to spreading it all over.
Rice Krispie Pops – Sometimes rice krispie treats can get sticky and gooey in the heat and humidity of summer so, for your next outside get-together, try rolling them into balls and stick a popsicle stick into each one. You could also roll them in sprinkles, candies or melted chocolate.
The sky is the limit. You can pretty much melt the margarine and marshmallows and throw anything in. Use up the last bits of leftover cereals, nuts, candies, sprinkles, etc.
For more recipes like these easy rice krispie treats recipes, check out our cookbook:
This fresh homemade lemonade recipe is quick and easy! Fresh squeezed homemade lemonade is a refreshing treat for everyone, especially on hot summer days!
Easy Homemade Lemonade Recipe – How To Make Fresh Lemonade
I love to make fresh squeezed lemonade but I never seem to be able to remember from one year to the next the proportions of the ingredients that make it taste best. With all of the hot days, I thought some of you might like an easy homemade lemonade recipe. I’m also including some ideas for extras that you can add to have something a little different for your lemonade!
This homemade lemonade recipe is extra sweet so you can cut back on the sugar if you like yours more tart. Adjust this recipe to your own tastes– more lemon, less lemon, more or less sugar, etc.
Add-ins (Extras that are good with fresh lemonade):
Fresh berries
Any flavor powdered drink mix (Kool-Aid), 1-2 Tbsp.
Lemon extract for an extra twist
Sprig of mint or slice of lemon
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Here’s an easy variation for strawberry lemonade! You can make this strawberry lemonade starting with our fresh homemade lemonade recipe above or you can take a shortcut like our reader did and start with store-bought lemonade.
This easy idea was submitted by Sheri, a reader:
Easy Strawberry Lemonade
I have served strawberry lemonade for two or three wedding rehearsal dinners. I made up the lemonade and dropped in frozen strawberries to keep the lemonade cool without diluting it. You can also freeze the strawberries in a mold with lemonade to do the same thing. It is so simple and people like to have their own strawberries in their cups.
I buy the lemonade mix at Smart and Final in the gallon size, that makes up 6 gallons and I make 7 gallons with it. I get compliments on how refreshing my lemonade tastes because it is not as sweet as full strength. I have an empty gallon jug marked where to fill the concentrate to before adding water for one gallon of lemonade.
Here’s a trick to keep the lemonade cold when serving in the 5 gallon cooler jug (like an Igloo). Freeze a clean gallon milk jug with water. Drop that in the lemonade and keep another milk jug with water in the freezer for when the first one melts, then keep switching them out until the lemonade is gone. The lemonade stays cold and it doesn’t get diluted. And…I don’t outrun my ice maker!
Where we live, it’s nice to have something cold on tap outside. Since we don’t snack between meals and only have water to drink between meals, this is an occasional treat, especially when we have guests. It makes everyone feel special and gets them outside when the temperatures are in the 100’s. We have plenty of shade and water play to keep them cool too. There are just times when they have to go out to play!
You will absolutely adore this easy blueberry cheesecake bake! It is a super tasty blueberry cheesecake recipe perfect for Saturday morning breakfast or Sunday dessert. It’s a wonderful treat that tastes just like blueberry cheesecake without all the work!
Our easy blueberry cheesecake bake recipe is perfect for Saturday morning breakfast or Sunday dessert or any time you want the goodness of blueberries and cheesecake without the stress of making cheesecake. Since this recipe is made with cinnamon rolls, you could also call this a blueberry cinnamon roll bake.
The sweetness of the cinnamon rolls with the contrast of the sour from blueberries and the richness of cream cheese creates a perfectly balanced dessert.
What is a Blueberry Cheesecake Bake?
While this is not a traditional blueberry cheesecake recipe, you get all the flavors of an incredible cheesecake with the ease of using store-bought ingredients in an ingenious way. Using store-bought cinnamon rolls in a can, you can have a dessert everyone will love in the oven in minutes. Bite-sized bits of cinnamon rolls are surrounded by a cheesecake-like filling saturated with blueberry flavor.
How to Make the Blueberry Cheesecake Bake
This recipe comes together so easily you will be amazed at how good it tastes. First, soften the cream cheese and then mix the cream cheese, sugar, and lemon with the blueberries and stir thoroughly. Next, cut the cinnamon rolls up into quarters and break those quarters into smaller pieces that you stir into the cream cheese mixture. Spread this mixture out on a 9×13 pan and bake it all for about thirty minutes. Once it is baked, add the icing you set aside from the cinnamon roll can. It’s so tasty!
Ingredients for the Blueberry Cinnamon Roll Bake recipe
Cream Cheese. An eight-ounce block is just right for this recipe.
Sugar. Just regular granulated sugar will do just fine.
Fresh Blueberries. The farmer’s markets will have the best fresh blueberries in late Spring or early summer, but you can find fresh berries at the grocer all year long. Fresh berries make the blueberry cheesecake bake extra yummy, but in a pinch, you could thaw frozen blueberries.
Lemon Zest or Lemon Juice. Either one will work fine.
If you do have leftovers from the blueberry cheesecake bake recipe, just keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. If you don’t think you’ll finish them all off in a few days’ time, try freezing individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. These can be thawed in the microwave for use later.
Tips to Make It an Amazing Dessert
Fresh blueberries should be a beautiful deep purple color that is almost black. They should also be firm and dry, never slimy. Plump berries that don’t look like they are turning into raisins are ideal.
Slice up the cinnamon rolls into quarters and then eighths using a sharp knife. Bite-sized pieces are best.
Grate the yellow skin off of lemons for lemon zest. Avoid the white part, called the “pith” or you will have a bitter taste with no flavor in your dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons to zest, lemon juice will work just fine.
Set the little icing can that comes with your canned cinnamon rolls aside and leave it out to thaw while your blueberry cinnamon roll bake is in the oven. This way it will be ready to spread or drizzle when dessert is ready.
What to serve with Blueberry Cheesecake Bake
The fun thing about this dish is that it can work in so many different ways. It makes a perfectly respectable breakfast pastry to start the day. If you prefer to have it as your dessert you can serve it after any meal. You could even make this dish to serve at an afternoon tea or take it to a brunch party.
Egg Brunch Bake. A delicious baked egg dish your whole family will love.
Try these recipes for easy homemade popcorn seasonings that will give a delicious variety to your party! You’ll also find some great popcorn variations!
We have been eating a lot of popcorn around here so I thought I would share some ideas for easy homemade popcorn seasonings!
Popcorn is one of our favorite go-to snacks—it’s quick, cheap, and so easy to make! But plain popcorn can get boring fast, especially if you’re making it often for family movie nights, game days, or holiday parties. That’s why I thought it would be fun to share some of our favorite homemade popcorn seasoning mixes from Volume 1 of our Dining On A Dime Cookbook. These simple seasoning ideas take just minutes to make and can turn a plain bowl of popcorn into something truly special!
Whether you’re craving something cheesy, spicy, or sweet, you’ll find several options here to satisfy every taste bud without spending a fortune. And if you’re feeling festive, you can dress it up by tossing in some M&M’s, nuts, or candies and drizzling white chocolate over the top. It’s a super fun and easy treat that’s perfect for parties or gifts!
So grab your popcorn, melt a little butter, and let’s get creative with these easy and affordable popcorn ideas the whole family will love!
-Tawra
Easy Popcorn Seasonings
Pour 1/4 cup melted butter over popcorn and sprinkle with any of the following:
Celebrate in style with these Easy 4th Of July Recipes—perfect for summer parties, picnics, and patriotic get-togethers! These no-bake, red, white, and blue treats are quick to make, refreshingly cool, and guaranteed to wow your guests without heating up the kitchen.
Easy 4th Of July Recipes You Can Make Fast!
Looking for fun and festive treats to celebrate Independence Day? These Easy 4th Of July Recipes are perfect for summer parties, backyard BBQs, or any patriotic get-together! With no baking required, these cool red, white, and blue desserts come together fast—so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday.
In this post, you’ll find simple and delicious recipes like 4th of July Cake Batter Dip, 4th of July Cheesecake Fluff, and a no-bake 4th of July Cheesecake Pie. Each one is made with just a few basic ingredients, along with a couple of convenient shortcuts like pre-made no-bake cheesecake filling, cream cheese, and pie filling.
Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just need something quick and festive to bring along, these Easy 4th Of July Recipes are guaranteed to impress—without turning on the oven!
This easy foaming hand soap refill recipe is a quick and simple way to save on hand soap. You can refill your soap for just pennies a bottle!
Vickie asked:
I really like the foaming hand soap; do you have a foaming hand soap refill recipe for making it at home?
If you love foaming hand soap but hate paying for those pricey refills, you’re not alone! Many of us have fallen for the convenience of foaming soap—only to realize the refill bottles are ridiculously expensive for what’s basically watered-down soap. I forked over $1.67 to buy one of those new foaming pump hand soaps just to see if it would last longer. Interestingly it only lasted 1/4 of the amount of time that normal hand soap does.
After some experimenting, I found a super simple way to refill your foaming soap dispensers for just pennies a bottle! It’s quick, easy, and just as effective as the store-bought stuff—without the extra cost.
Whether you’re using a store-bought foaming pump or a reusable dispenser, this DIY foaming hand soap refill recipe will save you money, reduce waste, and keep those hands clean without breaking the bank!
Here’s how to make a foaming hand soap refill for just a few pennies per bottle!
I figured that the store-bought soap lasts about the same amount of time as regular liquid hand soap but costs twice as much. Isn’t that nice of them? :-)
This easy garlic mayo recipe is a tasty addition on hamburgers, sandwiches, chicken, or fish. It’s a great way to add a little extra flavor to regular mayonnaise. It also makes a great dip for vegetables!
Looking for a simple way to take your everyday meals to the next level? This easy garlic mayo recipe is a quick, tasty upgrade to plain mayonnaise—and it only takes two ingredients! Creamy, tangy, and infused with the bold taste of fresh garlic (or garlic powder if you’re in a hurry), this spread is the perfect addition to just about everything.
Spread it on hamburgers and sandwiches, drizzle it over grilled chicken or fish, or use it as a dip for fresh veggies and fries. However you enjoy it, this garlic mayo adds that rich, savory punch that makes ordinary meals feel like something special.
All you need is 1 cup of mayo and a couple of cloves of garlic (or a dash of garlic powder), and you’re set. Just mix, refrigerate to let the flavors meld, and enjoy all week long. It’s an easy, affordable condiment that delivers big flavor with hardly any effort.
Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for a crowd, or just want to make your lunch sandwich a little more exciting, this homemade garlic mayo is a must-try!
This easy garlic mayo recipe is from Volume 1 of our cookbook:
For more quick and easy recipes like this garlic mayo recipe, check out our cookbooks!
Discover easy, no-fuss 2-ingredient recipes featuring delicious 7-Up Cake Recipes, fluffy 7-up Biscuits, and quick muffins. Perfect for busy days, these simple treats require minimal ingredients and bake up fast—no eggs or oil needed!
If you’re looking for quick and easy baked treats you can make in minutes, these easy 2-ingredient 7-Up cake recipes and more are just what you need! With a box of pancake or cake mix and a can of 7-Up, you can whip up soft muffins, fluffy 7-up biscuits, and a moist, delicious cake! No eggs, no oil—just mix and bake for a quick and easy treat every time!
These 7-Up recipes are perfect for busy days, last-minute guests, or simple cravings. Each recipe comes together in minutes and bakes up beautifully with almost no prep. If you love simple boxed cake mix recipes, you’ll want to try all of the recipes in this post!
This easy Hershey brownie recipe has the taste of Hershey’s chocolate and makes it super simple to make tasty brownies in a hurry! Who doesn’t love the taste of yummy chocolate brownies? This is an easy treat for kids or as a dessert to bring to a party or family get-together!
Who doesn’t love moist and tasty chocolate brownies? Here is an easy Hershey brownie recipe you can make with just 5 minutes’ work! This recipe uses Hershey’s chocolate syrup to add the rich chocolatey flavor to these brownies. These brownies turn out moist and delicious and are sure to please!
These Hershey brownies are great as a dessert or a treat for the kids. If you need to throw together a quick dessert for a potluck, these Hershey brownies are something quick and easy you can make up and toss in the oven to bake while you get ready to go.
If you make this brownie recipe to take to a potluck or get together where you expect a lot of people, you can easily double the recipe.
This Hershey brownie recipe calls for 2 cups of chocolate syrup. Back when Hershey’s syrup came in 16 oz cans, it would have been a full can. Today, most of the bottles are 24 ounces, so you would want to use about 2/3 of the bottle. It is OK if you don’t get the exact measurements.
This Hershey brownie recipe is from our How to Save Money On Groceries e-Course:
We will show you how you can save more than 50% off your grocery bill with easy strategies, and spending a lot less time and money doing it!
This easy countertop disinfectant recipe is a great disinfectant that can be used for most cleaning needs and it will save you a lot of money over buying it at the store!
Here is our easy homemade countertop disinfectant recipe. This recipe works well as an all purpose cleaner and I use it for lots of cleaning applications in my home. The alcohol is a disinfectant and the ammonia is a disinfectant and also a degreaser.
You can save a lot of money making your own cleaning products instead of buying the expensive ones at the store that have the same ingredients.
When you use this or any kitchen and bathroom cleaner, it is important that you NEVER mix any cleaning product that has ammonia with any cleaning product that has bleach. If you use bleach and ammonia together, it creates a poisonous gas. This applies to all cleaners, not just homemade cleaners. This countertop disinfectant uses ammonia, so you would want to avoid using it with any cleaner that includes bleach.
Here is our countertop and all purpose cleaner recipe. Mix some together and keep it in a spray bottle wherever you need quick clean-ups and disinfecting.
This Homemade Countertop Disinfectant Recipe is from the homemade cleaning products chapter in volume 1 of our cookbook:
Use these easy creative cooking substitutions and equivalents in cooking and baking in place of ingredients that you don’t happen to have on hand!
Cooking Substitutions And Equivalents
When you run out of something, use these creative substitutions in cooking and baking in place of ingredients that you do not have. The following cooking substitutions can be made in a pinch to approximate the same flavor and consistency in your recipes.
Cheese
Cream cheese = cottage cheese blended smooth with butter or milk
1 cup chopped apples = 1 cup chopped pears plus 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 cup dry bread crumbs = 3/4 cup cracker crumbs or 1 cup cornflake crumbs
1 chopped onion = 1 Tbsp. instant minced
1 clove garlic = 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1 cup tomato sauce = 3/4 cup tomato paste plus 1 cup water
1 Tbsp. prepared mustard = 1 tsp. dry mustard plus 1 Tbsp. water
1 tsp. dried herbs = 1 Tbsp. fresh herbs
1 tbsp chives = 1 tbsp green onions
1 cup of beer = 1 cup of chicken broth
1 cup ketchup = 1 cup tomato sauce + 1 tsp vinegar + 1 tsp sugar
1 cup mayonnaise = 1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup Soy sauce = 4 tbsp Worcestershire sauce + 1 tbsp water
Healthy Substitutions
If you’re trying to make your food more healthy, try these healthy substitutions. In each case, you can use the substitution in place of the original when cooking.
Bacon = Smoke flavoring, ham, Canadian bacon or bacon bits
Bread crumbs = French bread, dried and crushed Butter, margarine or shortening in baking
Butter, margarine or shortening in baking = Applesauce
Cream cheese = Neufchatel or low fat cream cheese
Canned Condensed Soup = White sauce made with skim milk
Cream of Chicken Soup = 1 ¼ cups white sauce + 1 Tbsp. chicken bouillon
Cream of Mushroom Soup = 1 cup white sauce + 1 can drained mushrooms
Egg (one) = 2 egg whites
Ground beef = Ground turkey
Heavy cream, for whipping = Evaporated milk, freeze 30 minutes, add ½ tsp. vanilla, whip
Heavy cream, in sauces and soups = Evaporated milk
Tired of spending money on expensive outdoor window cleaners? This simple and budget-friendly homemade outdoor window washer recipe works just as well—without the high price tag! Made with just a few everyday ingredients, it’s perfect for reaching those high-up windows without needing a ladder. Clean your windows with ease and save money in the process!
Gardening is a fun hobby that is refreshing and can easily be inexpensive. Here are some easy ways to get free plants and seeds for your garden!
How To Get FREE Or Cheap Plants and Seeds
Since we’re moving and I can’t have a garden this year I am going to live vicariously through the blog and share all my gardening tips. I do have all the plants I’m taking in pots so they’re ready to go. The “few of my favorites that I just have to take” turned out to be about 20 pretty large containers of plants. I think I have one very full carload of plants alone! If you are just starting out with a new garden, check out these tips to help you save when getting plants.
-Tawra
How To Find Inexpensive Plants
Talk to the manager if you see plants at a store that are in bad shape but not dead. Ask him if he will give you a “deal” if you take them off his hands. Most of the time they will give you a deal because the plants look bad and they don’t want to mess with them anymore. Last year I was able to purchase over 50 large half-gallon to gallon-sized perennials for $50. (over $600 retail) All but about five of them lived and I was able to take those back to the store and get my money back. Most home improvement and discount stores have a guarantee that if your plant dies within one year, you can bring the dead plant and the receipt and they will give you your money back or give you a new plant.
Trade plants with friends. Divide your plants or get divisions from your family. We divided four hostas over two years to get over 30 plants. If you see someone digging in their garden and throwing out plants, ask if you can have them. Most people are more than willing to give you their extras.
Plant zinnias and marigolds in areas where you want a lot of color with little fuss. Just work the soil, put the seeds down and by early summer you’ll have lots of flowers. You can have cut flowers all summer!
Many ladies are familiar with the cookie swaps, where you each bring five dozen cookies and trade. Try organizing a plant swap with cuttings/starters of different plants using the same concept.
From: Megan
We have a local adult service for the developmentally handicapped. They have a greenhouse where they sell plants, herb and vegetable seedlings, and even fruits and vegetables that they raise (for job training). The cost is half or less than that of any of the stores in town. They will often give you a free plant in exchange for giving them your old plastic pots.
Our local technical college has a horticulture program. Twice a year they have greenhouse sales and the selection and prices are terrific. Get on the department’s email list and get there early. Some high schools do this, too.
Our county has a website set up like Freecycle that will connect people who want to give away or swap plants, seeds, etc.
Don’t overlook the obvious: Buy seeds and plants at grocery and drug stores. Right after Mother’s Day, they move it all out for the July 4th sales. I just bought name-brand $1.99 seed packets for 10 cents a pack and some already bloomed flowers for $1.00 a plant, regularly $20. Once in the ground, you can give them some water and TLC and they will bloom again.
Post on marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for any plants or gardening needs. You may have to do a little digging.
Check with your local Native Plant Society. They try to secure permission from developers to remove native species prior to development. Yes, you will have to dig these up. They often have extra native plants and they are suitable for your climate.
Dividing Plants
From: Linda
We save money on gardening by cloning a lot of plants. While some plants clone easier than others, a great many can successfully be duplicated.
For example, your neighbor may have a bush or flower that you really admire but don’t want to pay what it costs from the store. Ask if you can take a cutting from their plant. Since you only need a small piece, most folks are happy to oblige.
You want to snip off a piece from the tip of a branch consisting of several leaves. Wrap the end in a wet paper towel and, once home, strip off any lower leaves to leave a stem. Put this in a small pot of high-quality potting soil and water.
Four-inch pots work well for cloning. Make sure your pots can drain water and keep moist! A little water every day or so is good. You just need to keep the stem moist so it will start putting out roots. You can use a root-stimulating product, but we don’t. For plants difficult to clone, like roses, I imagine it would be worthwhile. You dip the stem in the stimulator, then plant. Some folks advise covering clones with plastic to hold in moisture. We’ve tried that but had lots of problems with mold.
After your plant is well rooted you can plant as usual.
Note from Tawra:
A root stimulator is a very good idea. It’s about $3 for a small bottle which will last the rest of your life! All you do is dip the end of the stem into the powder and then put it into the soil in the pot. I have found that this will save a lot of frustration and greatly speed up the time it takes for the plants to be ready.
One great way to get free plants!
The best thing I have found is to talk with friends, family, and neighbors to see if anyone will “split” some of their perennials with you! Get in touch with a local church or the elderly community and see if they need help in the garden in exchange for starters. Having the company would surely please the elderly, and will give you a lot of tips and tricks from long ago. It will do both of you good… inside and out!
This is simply The Best Homemade Potato Salad Recipe EVER!! No really… it is. I have people begging for this potato salad! It’s quick and easy to make and makes a nice addition to picnics, potlucks and family get together!
The basic recipe is in volume 1 of our Dining On A Dime Cookbook but I normally add an additional tablespoon or two of bacon grease along with the bacon and people beg me to make more and more of it!
This is the very best homemade potato salad recipe! It is my all-time favorite! I have people begging for this potato salad, so you definitely need to try it! I almost always have all of the ingredients on hand, so it’s easy to make any time.
When I need to take a potato salad to a potluck or get together, this is the potato salad I take. It’s also great for Memorial day, picnics at the lake or barbecues with hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken. It is super popular with everyone who eats it because it is so delicious and there are never any leftovers to take home!
For my secret ingredient, I normally add an additional tablespoon or two of bacon grease along with the bacon and people beg me to make more and more of it! The bacon grease gives it a richer flavor you have to try to believe!
You don’t have to use the bacon… If you don’t have the bacon, or if you don’t eat bacon, this potato salad still tastes great without it (just not as “over the top” great as with the bacon ;-).
If I have baked potatoes or if I’m making mashed potatoes the night before, I cook extra and pull out a few of the potatoes before I mash them. This way I can use the extra potatoes for the potato salad that I know I will be making the next day.
This Best Homemade Potato Salad Recipe is from Volume 1 of our cookbook:
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Recipes That Go Great With This Homemade Potato Salad:
Here’s a quick and easy homemade fry sauce recipe! This creamy, tangy sauce is a favorite in some parts of the country as a dip for french fries—but it’s just as delicious on burgers, sandwiches, and more!
Fry Sauce – The Secret Sauce You Didn’t Know You Needed!
Ever heard of fry sauce? When we moved to Idaho, we were stumped when fast food places kept asking if we wanted some fry sauce with our French fries. Fry sauce? What’s that? We didn’t have any idea what fry sauce was, but when we tried it, we were hooked!
This easy homemade fry sauce recipe is creamy, tangy, and downright addictive. While it’s famous as a french fry dipping sauce, don’t stop there—it’s also amazing on burgers, chicken, sandwiches, and more. With just a few simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, you can whip up this tasty sauce in minutes. It’s a must-try if you’ve never had it—and if you have, you already know how good it is!
This easy homemade fry sauce recipe is from Volume 2 of our cookbook!
This easy Cheddar Cheese Crackers recipe uses just 5 ingredients for a crisp, cheesy snack that’s perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or everyday snacking. Better than store-bought and ready in under an hour! This post also contains a gluten free version!
If you’re looking for a simple, homemade Cheddar Cheese Crackers Recipe that tastes better than anything from a box, you’re in the right place! This easy recipe uses just 5 ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, and the results are crisp, cheesy, and totally irresistible.
Whether you’re planning snacks for the week, packing lunchboxes, or just want something crunchy to go with your soup, this Cheddar cheese crackers recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
If you’re looking for a gluten free version, be sure to scroll all the way down to the bottom for our 5 ingredient Gluten-Free Cheddar Cheese Crackers recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Cheese Crackers Recipe
Only 5 Ingredients – All you need is sharp cheddar, flour, butter, salt, and sour cream (or plain yogurt).
Bold Cheddar Flavor – Using sharp cheddar gives these crackers a rich, cheesy taste.
Kid-Friendly and Lunchbox-Ready – These homemade crackers are a hit with kids and adults alike.
Quick and Easy to Make – From start to finish, you’ll have fresh crackers in under an hour.
Tips for the Best Homemade Cheese Crackers
Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor—mild cheddar just doesn’t deliver that same cheesy punch.
Chill the dough before rolling and cutting—it helps the crackers hold their shape and bake evenly.
For chewy crackers, roll the dough a little thicker.
Want extra crispy crackers? Roll the dough thinner and bake a few minutes longer, watching closely.
If you have to eat gluten free, be sure to use our Gluten-Free version of the recipe at the bottom of this post!
Storage and Freezer Tips
These cheddar crackers store well in an airtight container for up to a week, and the dough can be frozen for later—perfect for making ahead.
So next time you’re craving something cheesy and crunchy, skip the store-bought snacks and try this easy Cheddar cheese crackers recipe. You’ll be amazed at how quick and delicious homemade can be!
Many of you are focused on deep cleaning right now, but there are still all the everyday jobs to keep up with. Here are some ideas about how to do your daily jobs quickly (starting with easy steps to clean your kitchen) so you can get on to the big stuff. Some people do things differently and in a different order. This is just a suggestion to help you get started. Feel free to modify it.
Clean Your Kitchen In Seven Easy Steps
Are you tired of looking at a messy kitchen and don’t know where to start? Cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these seven easy steps, you can quickly get your kitchen clean and sparkling in no time.
Start by picking up any items that don’t belong in the kitchen, like mail, newspapers, and other odds and ends and quickly putting them away. If there is a lot of this kind of stuff on the counters, gather it and place it in a box to deal with when the kitchen is clean. Don’t waste time sorting through it until after the kitchen is clean.
Gather all dirty dishes and load them into the dishwasher. If the dishwasher is already full, start it immediately to get it done as soon as possible.
Wipe off countertops and tables with hot soapy water. (This way, if you have unexpected company your table and counters are clean. They will think you have been cleaning all morning.)
If you have a spot with stuck on food, lay a wet washcloth on the spot for a few minutes while you work on something else. This will help soften the stain, making it easier to clean off.
Sweep the kitchen floor and shake out any throw rugs if needed. This will ensure that your kitchen looks clean and tidy.
Wash the dishes that have been soaking. As you go, place them on the drainboard to dry. Once you finish, put all of the dishes away in the cabinets where they belong. If they have not completely dried, grab a dish towel and quickly dry each of them as you put them away. Don’t be obsessive about the drying. Quickly wipe each one dry and move on.
Wipe down the faucets and dry with a towel. Drying with a towel prevents water spots and makes the fixtures look shiny and clean. (Be sure to wipe any sticky appliances, too. Don’t forget to wipe the door handles, especially on the back where you grab to open them.)
Put out aclean dishcloth and towel.
Take out thetrash.
If you have a lot of kitchen items on the counter that you rarely or never use, find a place to store them that is not on the counter. If you occasionally use something, see if you can find a place in a cabinet to store it. If you never use it, get rid of it.
By following these seven easy steps, you can quickly get your kitchen clean and sparkling. Don’t let a messy kitchen stress you out. Try these steps today and enjoy a clean and tidy kitchen every day!
If you’re a fan of Bisquick mix, try this easy and inexpensive homemade baking mix recipe. Use it for any recipe that calls for baking mix. You can also use this homemade baking mix to simplify regular recipes and cut preparation time.
This Homemade Bisquick Baking Mix Recipe is in volume 1 of our cookbook (called “Baking Mix”):
This easy shortbread cookie recipe is a simple recipe to make classic shortbread cookies like grandma’s homemade shortbread! Shortbread is delicious alone as a cookie or with strawberries and cream or other berries as a cool snack or dessert!
Today, I’ll be sharing a delicious easy shortbread cookie recipe, just like Grandma used to make! There’s just something magical about a warm, buttery shortbread cookie that brings back the best memories — the kind of memories where you’re sitting at Grandma’s kitchen table, the smell of fresh-baked cookies filling the air, and a plate of sweet, simple goodness waiting just for you. That’s exactly what this Easy Shortbread Cookie Recipe delivers!
Made with only three basic ingredients — butter, sugar, and flour — these cookies are the perfect example of how sometimes the simplest recipes are truly the best. With no fancy equipment or complicated steps, you’ll have a batch of melt-in-your-mouth shortbread ready in no time. The secret is whipping the butter until it’s nice and fluffy before blending in the sugar and flour, creating a soft, tender dough that bakes into light, golden perfection.
All you need to do is pat the dough into a pan, give it a few little fork pricks, sprinkle a touch of sugar on top, and bake! In just 15–20 minutes, your kitchen will be filled with the comforting smell of fresh shortbread, and you’ll have a pan of irresistible treats cooling on your counter.
These shortbread cookies are delicious all on their own — buttery, slightly crumbly, and just the right amount of sweet. But if you want to take them to the next level, try topping them with a few strawberries and cream or your favorite fresh berries. They make a wonderful snack, a light dessert, or a charming addition to afternoon tea.
Whether you’re craving a quick homemade treat, looking for a no-fuss dessert to share, or just want a little taste of nostalgia, this easy shortbread recipe is sure to become a favorite. Simple, classic, and oh-so-satisfying — just like Grandma used to make!
This Easy Shortbread Cookie Recipe is from our Dining On A Dime Cookbook, Volume 1.
Here is a 7 Day Meal Plan for a family of 4 that you can make for as little as $35, even with recent grocery price increases! This includes cheap, quick and easy family meals great for families with kids. These meals are easy to make and you’ll also find easy and tasty recipes!
7 Day Meal Plan for $35: Cheap, Quick And Easy Family Meals
Here is a cheap family meal plan with a grocery list for a family of 4! Even if you don’t know how to meal plan, we’ve made it super easy for you! This post contains easy family dinner ideas and easy recipes to go with the daily meal plans. You can feel free to adjust this meal plan to your family’s taste, but if you’re concerned about the cost, be sure to consider the cost of the individual substitutions.
Total Cost: $25 The meal plan prices are calculated using Aldi prices. If you don’t have access to an Aldi store, add $5-$10.
This meal plan assumes you have these basic items in your pantry:
Baking supplies, peanut butter, jelly, spices, and fats. Add $5 more if you don’t.
Recipes For This Meal Plan:
This cheeseburger rolls recipe makes a delicious and easy main dish that everyone, especially kids will love! Serve with an easy side dish and you’ll have a no complaint meal!
This easy homemade enchiladas recipe is one of Mike’s favorite recipes! It’s in the top 3! It’s in our Dining On A Dime Volume 1 Cookbook.
If you need a meal that is quick and easy to prepare this is one of my go to recipes! Of course you can make it easier by using Mexican cheese and just sprinkle some onion and garlic powder inside and it’s even quicker.
You can mix and match this recipe any way you want. Just put some shredded leftover beef or chicken in for beef or chicken enchiladas or add green peppers, cilantro anything you would like for you taste. Easy and adaptable for every family!
This peanut butter cookies recipe calls for a few more ingredients than the 4 ingredient peanut butter cookies recipe but don’t be afraid to try it. These cookies are nice and fluffy and it’s not any more work to mix them up.
Give these old fashioned peanut butter cookies a try! They’re just like grandma’s– OK, they ARE grandma’s, so everyone will rave about your cookies, too!
For more cheap and easy family meals and recipes like the ones in this easy meal plan, check out all of our cookbooks:
This easy baked beans recipe makes the best baked beans! It is a quick and easy side dish for a picnic or barbecue. It’s our favorite baked bean recipe and everyone loves it! You can find this recipe in volume 1 of our Dining On A Dime Cookbook.
This easy baked beans recipe is from volume 1 of our cookbook:
This easy gluten free pound cake recipe makes a tasty dairy free gluten free pound cake with a taste and texture just as delicious as the original!
This gluten free pound cake recipe is a quick and easy way to make a classic pound cake that is gluten free and dairy free!
If you have had to go gluten free or dairy free and you miss your favorite baked goods, you will definitely want to try this recipe! It makes a tasty gluten free pound cake with a taste and texture just as delicious as the original!
Gluten Free Pound Cake Tips
You can serve this gluten free pound cake with your favorite berries (like strawberries, raspberries or blueberries) and whipped cream. Or if you prefer, you can make a vanilla glaze and drizzle it over the top!
This dairy free gluten free pound cake makes a tasty and versatile snack! You can keep some sliced up as a quick grab and go snack or breakfast item. It also makes the perfect gluten free snack for kids after school.
To keep gluten free pound cake moist, don’t over-bake it. Wrap it in plastic wrap or plastic to keep it from drying out.
