Adventures of Mel

Category: Meat & Seafood

Don’t know ’bout you, but my house is full of meat lovers. So here you’ll find loads of delicious meat recipes, including poultry and chicken recipes, beef recipes, pork recipes, and seafood and fish recipes.

Reader favorites include this easy meatloaf recipe, Instant Pot taco chicken, and spinach and chicken stuffed peppers.

meat recipes, including poultry and chicken recipes, beef recipes, pork recipes, and seafood recipes
  • Taco Sloppy Joes

    Taco Sloppy Joes

    Taco Sloppy Joes – How to make homemade taco sloppy joes with ground beef and all the fixings. Easy dinner recipe your family will love, especially the kids!

    open faced taco sloppy joes sandwich with avocado, chopped tomatoes, lettuce, and shredded cheddar on a gray plate with tortilla chips

    I’ve already shared how much I loved sloppy joes as a kid; and I’ve shared my love for tacos, especially ground beef tacos. So I thought it only appropriate to combine the two into a delicious new recipe, taco sloppy joes.

    My kids weren’t too sure about this combination at first. And then we had them for dinner, and their minds were forever changed; I got lots of compliments that night.

    I think it’s safe to say this recipe, much like Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes, will be a regular on our dinnertime menu. The nice thing is you can eat these on a toasted bun, or if you’re trying to go more low carb, you can top off a bed of lettuce or spinach and make a taco salad instead.

    You can even swap out buns for bell peppers and make the most delicious beef taco stuffed peppers.

    While this sloppy joe makes a nice juicy burger, you can top it off with taco ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, avocados, and green onions if desired.

    holding taco sloppy joe in hands

    It’s a quick and easy sloppy joe recipe you can even make ahead of time, then pull out the meat and warm it up to go with all the fixings.

    Who’s ready for a dinner recipe your kids will love? I’m ready to make them again.

    More family favorite sloppy joe recipes your kids will love… Grilled Cheese Sloppy Joes, Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers, Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes, and Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes.

    I JUST WANT THE RECIPE! TAKE ME TO THE TACO SLOPPY JOES RECIPE!

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the delicious recipe for taco sloppy joes – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    WHAT ARE TACO SLOPPY JOES?

    Just in case you’ve never had sloppy joes, they’re a sort of loose meat sandwich made with loose ground beef mixed with a tomato based sauce. The sauce usually has things like ketchup or tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sometimes a little mustard, and other ingredients.

    Well, as can be expected, taco sloppy joes are a little bit different. They’re still a loose meat sandwich, but instead of ketchup, you make them with pretty much the same ingredients you’d use to make taco meat.

    taco sloppy joe or juicy burger made with taco seasoned ground beef

    Some people use salsa or picante sauce to season their taco meat. I like to use a mix of ingredients like onion, garlic, lemon juice, chili powder, and chopped tomato.

    And while I use ground beef, you can also make a good sloppy joe sandwich with ground pork or ground turkey.

    Then you serve the meat on a toasted bun (or on a bed of lettuce for a low carb option), along with all the fixings you’d use in tacos.

    CAN I USE FROZEN GROUND BEEF? DO I NEED TO THAW IT?

    You can use frozen hamburger meat to make homemade sloppy joes, but you may need to sauté your onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a different skillet so they can be added to the ground beef once it’s thawed. We actually do this quite often because we forget to get the meat out, so don’t fret if you’ve forgotten it too.

    Since it’s a loose meat sandwich and you’re not making hamburger patties, it’s a little bit easier to do; though I do recommend thawing if at all possible.

    Just put the meat into a skillet with maybe 1/2 cup water, turn the heat on medium, and place a lid on the skillet. This basically steams the meat.

    taco sloppy joes ground beef mixture in cast iron skillet

    You can add the sautéed onion, garlic, and pepper once the meat has loosened up.

    When it’s fully cooked, you can drain off any excess oil.

    TIPS FOR HOW TO MAKE TACO SLOPPY JOES

    This is a super easy sloppy joe recipe that’s perfect for taco lovers.

    I do recommend using bacon grease for the added flavor to the meat mixture (and for toasting the buns). But if you don’t have bacon grease, no worries; you can also use butter or olive oil.

    Be sure to mince up the garlic, onion, and bell pepper really well. I like mincing them up so they blend well with the meat and the sauce.

    garlic, onions, and peppers minced and sautéing in cast iron skillet for taco sloppy joe recipe

    You’ll start by sautéing the garlic, onion, and bell pepper in a large skillet. Then add the meat and mix together with the vegetables, cooking the mixture well.

    ground beef mixture for taco sloppy joes cooking in cast iron skillet on stovetop

    Be sure to drain off any excess oil when the meat has finished cooking.

    adding ingredients for taco seasoning to taco sloppy joes meat in cast iron skillet on stovetop

    Once you add the sloppy joe sauce ingredients, just let the whole mixture simmer for a good 10 minutes.

    taco meat for homemade sloppy joes

    Meanwhile, you can toast hamburger buns in another skillet or on a griddle in a little bit of bacon grease. Or you may choose a lower carb option and prep a plate of lettuce or spinach to go with your taco sloppy joe meat.

    toasting hamburger buns for taco sloppy joes loose meat sandwich on cast iron griddle

    Add the meat to a toasted bun and top with your favorite taco ingredients, like lettuce, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar, mashed avocados, and maybe even green onions.

    taco ingredients like avocado, tomatoes, lettuce, and shredded cheddar piled on sloppy joes on gray plate with tortilla chips

    However you choose to enjoy your taco sloppy joes, they’re sure to be delicious!

    taco sloppy joes on toasted buns served on gray plate with tortilla chips and cast iron skillet of juicy burger meat behind it

    KITCHEN TOOLS YOU MAY NEED TO MAKE TACO SLOPPY JOES

    Skillet – We love using our cast iron skillets and griddle for pretty much everything both at home and while camping; they are very much a part of our camping cooking gear on every trip.

    Hamburger Chopper – This handy dandy tool makes it easier to chop up the meat into a much looser mixture.

    Wooden Spatula

    Ninja Food Chopper Express or Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife

    All-in-One Avocado Slicer

    Cheese Grater

    TACO SLOPPY JOE RECIPE

    If you love this taco sloppy joe recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest! If you make the recipe, be sure to share that you tried it on Pinterest. I love when readers share feedback!

    Easy Homemade Taco Sloppy Joes Recipe

    CONNECT WITH ADVENTURES OF MEL!

    Be sure to follow me on social, so you never miss a post!

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    Taco Sloppy Joes

    How to make homemade taco sloppy joes with ground beef and all the fixings. Easy dinner recipe your family will love, especially the kids!

    • 1 tablespooon bacon grease (*)
    • 1 clove garlic (minced)
    • 1/2 medium yellow onion (minced)
    • 1 large bell pepper (chopped)
    • 1 pound ground beef
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 large tomato (chopped)
    • 3 cups lettuce (shredded)
    • 2 large tomatoes (chopped)
    • 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
    • 2 whole avocados (mashed)
    • 5 green onions (chopped)
    1. Heat the bacon grease in a large skillet until hot. 
    2. Then add in the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
    3. Add the onion and bell pepper in with the garlic and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
    4. Add the ground beef into the skillet, stirring the garlic, onions, and bell pepper into the meat. Cook on medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the meat is well cooked.
    5. Be sure to drain off any excess oil when the meat has finished cooking.
    6. Mix the lemon juice, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped tomato into the meat, stirring until combined.
    7. Let the taco sloppy joe mixture simmer for at least 10 minutes.
    8. Meanwhile, prep the taco ingredients, including lettuce, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, avocados, green onions, and whatever else you like on your tacos.
    9. Serve on toasted buns or on a bed of lettuce or spinach.

    **I recommend using bacon grease for the added flavor it will give to the meat mixture (and for toasting the buns). But if you don’t have bacon grease, no worries; you can also use butter or olive oil.

    Burgers & Sandwiches
    American
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  • Easy Homemade Sloppy Joes

    Easy Homemade Sloppy Joes

    Sloppy Joes – Make your own homemade sloppy joes! Easy 30 minute sloppy joe recipe with a simple and delicious sauce. Serve on toasted buns or a bed of lettuce.

    When I was a kid, sloppy joes were one of my favorite meals. Of course, Manwich was the sloppy joe sauce of choice back then.

    open faced sloppy joes with potato chips on gray plate and sloppy joe meat in iron skillet

    But who needs canned sloppy joe sauce when you can make your own simple sauce? And it doesn’t have to be an overbearing sauce either, completely masking the flavor of the meat.

    Nope, you can make a sauce with minimal ketchup, a little bit of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of brown sugar. And it’s out of this world delicious!

    When I first made this recipe, it reminded me of the old days when Mom and Grandma would make the best juicy burger around. The toasted buns toasted in just a smidge of bacon grease really brought back a taste of home.

    Tasty Tip: This also makes the best grilled cheese sloppy joes and sloppy joe shepherd’s pie! You can also make crock pot sloppy joes instead.

    holding a sloppy joe or juicy burger with 2 hands above a plate of potato chips

    Are you ready for a dinnertime favorite your family will love? Let’s get to it!

    More sloppy joe recipes you may enjoy: Taco Sloppy Joes, Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers, and Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes.

    I JUST WANT THE RECIPE! TAKE ME TO THE SLOPPY JOES RECIPE!

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the delicious recipe for sloppy joes – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    WHAT ARE SLOPPY JOES?

    If you’ve never had sloppy joes, never fear. It’s never too late to add this yummy recipe to your weekly menu planning.

    Sloppy joes are a sort of loose meat sandwich made with loose ground beef mixed with a tomato based sauce. The sauce usually has things like ketchup or tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sometimes a little mustard, and other ingredients.

    ground beef sloppy joes mixture in iron skillet with wooden spatula

    You can also make a sloppy joe sandwich with ground pork or ground turkey.

    It’s a very flavorful sandwich that’s otherwise known as a juicy burger (what my mama and grandma called it), loose meat sandwich, Manwich, dynamite, slush burger, tavern sandwich, a Maid-Rite, etc.

    SLOPPY JOE INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

    • Garlic clove
    • Yellow onion
    • Bacon grease (you can also use butter or olive oil)
    • Ground beef

    CAN I USE FROZEN HAMBURGER MEAT? DO I NEED TO THAW IT?

    You can use frozen ground beef. In fact, we do this quite often because we forget to get the meat out.

    Since it’s a loose meat sandwich and you’re not making hamburger patties, it’s a little bit easier to do; though I do recommend thawing if at all possible.

    Just put the meat into a skillet with maybe 1/2 cup water, turn the heat on medium, and place a lid on the skillet. This basically steams the meat.

    When it’s cooked, you can drain off any excess oil.

    TIPS FOR HOW TO MAKE SLOPPY JOES

    Sloppy joes are one of the easiest meals to make. I totally get why my mom liked making them.

    Now I do recommend using bacon grease for the added flavor to the meat mixture (and for toasting the buns). But if you don’t have bacon grease, no worries; you can also use butter or olive oil.

    sauteeing onions and garlic for making sloppy joes

    Be sure to mince up the garlic and the onion really well. I like mincing them up so they blend well with the meat and sauce.

    adding ground beef to sloppy joes mixture with onions and garlic in cast iron skillet

    You’ll start by sautéing the garlic and onion in a large skillet. Then add the meat and mix together with the garlic and onion, cooking the mixture well.

    cooking ground beef mixture for sloppy joes in cast iron skillet

    Be sure to drain off any excess oil when the meat has finished cooking.

    mixing ingredients for sloppy joes sauce into meat mixture in cast iron skillet on stovetop

    Once you add the sauce ingredients, just let the whole mixture simmer for a good 5 minutes.

    simmering sloppy joes ground beef mixture in cast iron skillet on stovetop

    Meanwhile, you can toast hamburger buns in another skillet in a little bit of bacon grease. Or you may choose a lower carb option and prep a plate of lettuce or spinach to go with your sloppy joe meat.

    toasting hamburger buns in a little bit of bacon grease on cast iron griddle for the most delicious sloppy joes

    However you choose to enjoy your sloppy joes, hopefully with a nice big batch of homemade steak fries, this is sure to be a family favorite recipe for many meals to come.

    homemade sloppy joes on plate with potato chips

    KITCHEN TOOLS YOU MAY NEED TO MAKE SLOPPY JOES

    Skillet – We love using our cast iron skillets for pretty much everything both at home and while camping; they are very much a part of our camping cooking gear on every trip.

    Hamburger Chopper – This handy dandy tool makes it easier to chop up the meat into a much looser mixture.

    Wooden Spatula

    meat for sloppy joes or juicy burger recipe in cast iron skillet

    SLOPPY JOE RECIPE

    If you love this sloppy joe recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest! If you make the recipe, be sure to share that you tried it on Pinterest. I love when readers share feedback!

    Easy Homemade Sloppy Joes Recipe

    CONNECT WITH ADVENTURES OF MEL!

    Be sure to follow me on social, so you never miss a post!

    Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter

    Sign up to receive my newsletter, filled with delicious recipes and outdoor travel adventures, in your inbox:

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    Easy Homemade Sloppy Joes

    Make your own homemade sloppy joes! Easy 30 minute sloppy joe recipe with a simple and delicious sauce. Serve on toasted buns or a bed of lettuce.

    • 1 tablespoon bacon grease (*)
    • 1 clove garlic (minced)
    • 1/2 medium yellow onion (minced)
    • 1 pound ground beef
    • 1/4 cup ketchup
    • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 1/2 tablespoon light brown sugar
    1. Heat the bacon grease in a large skillet until hot. 
    2. Then add in the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
    3. Add the onion in with the garlic and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
    4. Add the ground beef into the skillet, stirring the onions and garlic into the meat. Cook on medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the meat is well cooked.
    5. Be sure to drain off any excess oil when the meat has finished cooking.
    6. Mix the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar into the meat, stirring until combined.
    7. Let the sloppy joe mixture simmer for at least 5 minutes.
    8. Serve on toasted buns or on a bed of lettuce or spinach.

    *I recommend using bacon grease for the added flavor it will give to the meat mixture (and for toasting the buns). But if you don’t have bacon grease, no worries; you can also use butter or olive oil.

    Burgers & Sandwiches
    American
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  • Low Carb Meatloaf Recipe

    Low Carb Meatloaf Recipe

    Easy recipe for a low carb meatloaf made with cauliflower and ground beef. Simple, healthy dinner idea and comfort food recipe with absolutely no ketchup!

    Meatloaf is one of my favorite meals, but my regular meatloaf has oatmeal, ketchup, and BBQ sauce, which all spell carbs, pretty much a no go for Dan. So I decided to work on a low carb meatloaf recipe he could enjoy too.

    low carb meatloaf baked in blue baking dish with basil sprinkled on top

    I’m not sure if this could be considered a keto meatloaf; I don’t know enough about keto ingredients at this point. BUT I do know it’s one recipe you can add to your list of low carb foods.

    Now it is a work in progress, meaning I may be coming back to tweak it as I continue making it. I like to do that when I remake things over and over… I’ll tweak ingredients and sometimes it turns out even better than before.

    This easy meatloaf is definitely delicious just the way it is, though. Even without all the ketchup and BBQ sauce that’s in my favorite meatloaf with oatmeal, it still has a ton of flavor.

    sliced homemade low carb meatloaf in blue baking dish

    And if you’re making meatloaf and need fewer servings, you can always cut the recipe in half– or you could use it to make mini meatloaf muffins! I like to make enough so that we can have meatloaf sandwiches (or salads) the next day for lunch.

    I JUST WANT THE RECIPE! TAKE ME TO THE LOW CARB MEATLOAF RECIPE!

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the delicious recipe for low carb meatloaf – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    baked low carb meatloaf in baking dish

    MEATLOAF INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

    You’ll need just a few simple ingredients to make this low carb meatloaf…

    • Ground beef
    • Eggs
    • Small onion

    You can also add a little parmesan, maybe 1/4 to 1/2 cup if you want more flavor… Parmesan is definitely something I add to my baked Italian cauliflower meatballs, but unfortunately, I didn’t have any on hand for my homemade meatloaf.

    TIPS FOR HOW TO MAKE A LOW CARB MEATLOAF

    Meatloaf is super easy to make, which is why it’s usually on our menu at least once or twice a month. It’s basically a throw everything in the bowl and mix it up type of recipe.

    low carb meatloaf ingredients in blue mixing bowl, including ground beef, cauliflower rice, onion, eggs, and seasonings

    I’d suggest using a leaner ground beef that won’t shrink as much when baked. Meat with more fat will leave a ton of liquid in the pan when it’s done baking, and it’s liable to shrink up big time.

    We usually buy beef from our local butcher shop, and it’s about a 90/10 mixture, which works really well for meatloaf. That mixture still gives off a little bit of juice but not so much that our meatloaf is sitting in a bunch of liquid.

    The steamed cauliflower rice will help the meatloaf to be moist… Normally, I use oatmeal, but the carb content in oatmeal deterred me from using it for this recipe.

    easy low carb meatloaf uncooked in a white baking dish

    As for seasonings, we kept it simple. Salt, pepper, seasoning salt, and a Texas Style BBQ Seasoning (Great Value brand) we found at Walmart; I still like just a hint of BBQ flavor in my meatloaf.

    HOW LONG TO COOK MEATLOAF

    You’ll bake meatloaf at 350° in the oven.

    Meatloaf usually takes anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour to cook all the way through. You want to make sure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160° with a meat thermometer.

    low carb meatloaf baked and resting in baking dish

    When it’s done, you can just remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes while you finish prepping the rest of your meal.

    WHAT FOODS ARE GOOD TO PAIR WITH MEATLOAF?

    Normally, I’d say to serve meatloaf with mashed potatoes. Yum! Unfortunately, mashed potatoes are definitely not low carb.

    So you might want to go with a better option like maybe a colorful salad, green beans, or broccoli. And remember, there’s cauliflower in the meatloaf, so you’ve already got a few hidden veggies.

    slice of low carb meatloaf on white plate with fork

    CAN I FREEZE MEATLOAF?

    Yes, you can. Meatloaf would make an excellent freezer meal or make ahead meal.

    MORE DINNER IDEAS WITH GROUND BEEF AND/OR CAULIFLOWER:

    Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs – which you can pair with Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti.

    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice

    Sausage and Chicken Instant Pot Casserole

    KITCHEN TOOLS YOU MAY NEED TO MAKE THIS EASY MEATLOAF RECIPE:

    13″x9″ casserole or baking dish – I love using this size baking dish to make a big 2-pound meatloaf that will stretch to give our family of 5 more than one meal.

    Large mixing bowl – This makes it easy to just dump in all the ingredients and start mixing.

    Meat thermometer – We use ours all the time; it really helps to tell if the meat has come to temp and is fully cooked.

    LOW CARB MEATLOAF RECIPE

    If you love this low carb meatloaf recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest! If you make the recipe, be sure to share that you tried it on Pinterest. I love when readers share feedback!

    low carb meatloaf recipe

    CONNECT WITH ADVENTURES OF MEL!

    Be sure to follow me on social, so you never miss a post!

    Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter

    Sign up to receive my newsletter, filled with delicious recipes and outdoor travel adventures, in your inbox:

    FREE EMAIL SUBSCRIPTION

    Low Carb Meatloaf

    Easy recipe for a low carb meatloaf made with cauliflower and ground beef. Simple, healthy dinner idea and comfort food recipe with absolutely no ketchup!

    • 2 pounds ground beef
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1/2 cup onion (minced)
    • 1 cup cauliflower rice (steamed)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
    • 1 teaspoon BBQ Seasoning (*)
    1. Pre-heat the oven to 350° and spray a 13"x9" baking dish with cooking spray.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground beef, eggs, minced onion, and cauliflower rice.
    3. Sprinkle in the seasonings, including the salt, black pepper, seasoning salt, and BBQ seasoning; and mix together well.
    4. Add the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking dish, and pat together into a loaf.
    5. Bake at 350° for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160° with a meat thermometer.
    6. When the meatloaf has finished cooking, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for just a few minutes while you finish prepping the rest of your meal.
    7. Serve with your favorite sides** and enjoy!

    *I used Great Value brand Texas Style BBQ Seasoning, but you can use any low carb BBQ seasoning.

    Normally, I serve meatloaf with mashed potatoes. Unfortunately, mashed potatoes are definitely not low carb. So you may want to serve it with something like a colorful salad, green beans, or broccoli.

    Dinner Ideas
    American
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  • Low Carb Sausage Egg Muffins

    Low Carb Sausage Egg Muffins

    Low carb sausage egg muffins you can make ahead for an easy, healthy breakfast both for you and your kids. Freezable, simple ingredients, quick and delicious recipe!

    We pretty much eat the same thing for breakfast every single morning, but sometimes we just need to switch it up. These sausage egg muffins, filled with sausage, bell pepper, cheddar, pepper jack, and basil, are an easy way to do that.

    sausage egg muffins recipe

    Like bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast muffins, this egg muffin recipe is bursting with incredible flavor. It also makes a very fluffy egg muffin cup.

    Eat them with a fork, or eat them with your fingers, making them the perfect breakfast on the go. They’re quick, low carb, and healthy, giving you a boost of protein to start your day off right.

    sausage egg muffins on a white plate

    If you love these egg cups, you’ll also love these ham and cheese egg muffins.

    I JUST WANT THE RECIPE! TAKE ME TO THE RECIPE FOR LOW CARB SAUSAGE EGG MUFFINS!

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to this delicious low carb sausage egg muffins recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    sausage egg muffins in a cast iron muffin tin

    CAN YOU MAKE AHEAD AND FREEZE BREAKFAST MUFFINS WITH EGGS?

    Yes, you can. In fact, you can make enough for a couple weeks in a very short amount of time.

    • Make a batch or two of sausage and egg muffins and allow them to cool.
    • Then place them all in a freezer bag or freezer tight container and freeze for easy breakfasts all week.
    • When morning comes, simply warm them up in the microwave or the oven, whichever your preference.
    sausage egg muffins popped out of muffin tin, ready to eat for an easy breakfast

    TIPS FOR HOW TO BAKE EGGS IN A MUFFIN TIN

    Baking eggs in a muffin tin is actually really easy, even when you have multiple ingredients you’re trying to fit in each small muffin cup.

    • Make sure all of your ingredients are ready first… Sausage (or bacon or ham) is cooked, peppers and onions are sautéed, cheese is shredded, veggies are washed and ready, and eggs are whipped up with either heavy whipping cream or milk.
    cooking sausage and peppers in a cast iron skillet
    • Spray the muffin pan with cooking spray before adding any ingredients to it.
    • Start by adding solid ingredients, like your meat, vegetables, cheese, etc.
    layering sausage and cheese for sausage egg muffins in cast iron muffin pan
    • Then pour the egg mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 of the way full; this will leave a little room for expansion in baking.
    fill egg cups with egg mixture for easy sausage egg muffins
    • Then bake the sausage egg muffins, following your recipe instructions.
    cooked sausage egg muffins in cast iron muffin pan

    HOW TO TELL WHEN EGG MUFFINS ARE DONE

    You’ll be able to tell when your egg muffins are done by both sight and touch. They’ll be fluffy and not jiggly in the middle.

    Of course, if you really want to make sure the eggs are cooked through, you can always use a cooking thermometer to check the temperature. According to the Egg Safety Center, any type of quiche or egg casserole should reach a temperature of 160°F.

    low carb sausage egg muffins in a muffin pan

    IF YOU LOVE THIS SAUSAGE EGG MUFFINS RECIPE, TRY SOME OF OUR OTHER BREAKFAST FAVORITES:

    WAYS YOU CAN CHANGE UP BAKED EGG MUFFINS

    • Add minced onions.
    • Or if you like them better, add chopped green onions.
    • Add chopped up spinach to the egg mixture.
    • Use smoked cheese or Queso Fresco in place of cheddar, colby jack, or pepper jack.
    • Add a different type of meat, like ham or bacon.
    • Or go meatless.
    low carb sausage egg muffins from scratch with basil on top

    KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE EGG MUFFINS WITH SAUSAGE:

    Frying Pan and Spatula

    Cutting Board and Sharp Knife

    Cheese Grater

    Liquid Measuring Cup

    Mixing Bowl and Whisk

    Muffin Tins

    Cooking Thermometer (optional)

    LOW CARB SAUSAGE EGG MUFFINS RECIPE

    If you love this low carb sausage egg muffins recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest!

    low carb sausage egg muffins recipe from scratch

    CONNECT WITH ADVENTURES OF MEL!

    Be sure to follow me on social, so you never miss a post!

    Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter

    Sign up to receive my newsletter, filled with delicious recipes and outdoor travel adventures, in your inbox:

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    Sausage Egg Muffins

    Low carb sausage egg muffins you can make ahead for an easy, healthy breakfast both for you and your kids. Freezable, simple, and delicious!

    • Muffin Tin
    • 1 tablespoon salted butter
    • 1 medium bell pepper (minced)
    • 1 pound breakfast sausage
    • 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
    • 10 large eggs
    • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
    • 1/2 cup pepper Jack cheese (shredded)

    1. Pre-heat the oven to 375° F and grease a muffin tin. 

    2. Add the butter to a large skillet over medium heat.

    3. Sauté the minced bell pepper in the melted butter for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the peppers begin to soften.

    4. Add the sausage to the skillet, combining it with the peppers.

    5. Stir in the chopped basil leaves, and cook the sausage thoroughly.
    6. Remove the sausage and pepper mixture from the heat, and drain well.

    7. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, salt, and pepper.

    8. Put 1 to 2 tablespoons of sausage in the bottom of each muffin cup.

    9. Sprinkle on a layer of cheddar and pepper Jack.

    10. Pour the whipped egg mixture over the sausage and cheese, filling each muffin cup about 3/4 of the way full.

    11. Bake at 375° F for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the egg muffins are fluffy, not jiggly, and have reached 160° F with a meat thermometer. 

    12. Allow the muffins to cool for 2 to 3 minutes in the pan; then run a table knife around the edges of the muffin cups, and pop the muffins out onto a wire rack to cool. 

    13. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings and sides!

    *You can serve them immediately, or you can refrigerate or freeze them. Then pop them in the microwave in the morning, and enjoy a warm breakfast with hardly any effort! They’re perfect for a quick, on the go, healthy breakfast!

    Breakfast & Brunch, Main Course
    American
    easy breakfast, low carb breakfast, sausage egg muffins
  • Asian Chicken Salad Wonton Cups

    Asian Chicken Salad Wonton Cups

    Make delicious Asian chicken salad in crunchy baked wonton cups. Easy appetizer filled with ginger soy chicken, crunchy almonds, red cabbage, and more! Thanks to StarKist and The Motherhood for sponsoring this post.

    While we love our more traditional chicken salad recipe with eggs, I’ve also fallen in love with Asian chicken salad. Especially now that StarKist® Chicken Creations™ chicken pouches make it so easy to make this quick appetizer, we can whip it up in minutes. 

    asian chicken salad wonton cups in cast iron muffin pan

    Filled with Ginger Soy chicken, broccoli slaw, red cabbage, almonds, and more crunchy deliciousness, it’s super flavorful. And I don’t even have to add any dressing, because the chicken is already flavorful enough for the whole salad.

    Asian chicken salad recipe made in baked wonton cups in a cast iron muffin tin

    Wonton cups are easy to bake, as well. Just place wonton wrappers in muffin cups, put them in the oven, and they’re ready to go in about 10 minutes. 

    Even my kids loved this salad, filled with protein and a host of colorful veggies. I can see myself making this easy chicken salad recipe, along with our favorite Chicken Fried Rice Spring Rolls, for all kinds of events, from family get togethers to holiday parties.

    What are StarKist® Chicken Creations™?

    StarKist Chicken Creations pouches

    Let me just make your day because StarKist® Chicken Creations™ pouches are ready to go, whether you want to make a recipe or eat right out of the pouch. These single serve, no drain pouches make a quick and easy lunch or snack option, especially on the go. 

    Choose from four delicious flavors:

    • BOLD Buffalo Style
    • Zesty Lemon Pepper
    • Ginger Soy
    • Chicken Salad
    StarKist Chicken Creations Chicken Salad on a cracker, eating right out of the pouch

    I love eating the Chicken Salad flavor right out of the pouch with crackers or veggies. 

    The Ginger Soy makes a delicious chicken appetizer. The premium, white meat chicken is sourced from farms right here in the U.S., where chickens are raised cage free and hormone free.

    Asian chicken salad made with StarKist Chicken Creations Ginger Soy and added to baked wonton

    StarKist® Chicken Creations™ Ginger Soy has a tangy soy seasoning, mixed with chicken and vinegar, reminiscent of your favorite Asian food. It’s also a great option if you’re watching what you eat, with only 90 calories and 10g protein per pouch. 

    You can find a printable recipe below, but let’s walk through how to make this yummy appetizer recipe.

    Asian Chicken Salad Wonton Cups Ingredients:

    • 12 wonton cups
    • 3 pouches StarKist® Chicken Creations™ Ginger Soy
    • 1 cup broccoli slaw
    • 1/2 cup red cabbage, chopped or sliced
    • 1/2 cup green onion, minced
    • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
    • 1/4 cup water chestnuts, minced
    • 1/2 cup chow mein noodles

    Tips for how to make an Asian salad:

    Pre-heat the oven to 425°. Then prepare your muffin tins by spraying the cups with cooking spray.

    baked wonton cups in cast iron muffin pan

    Press 12 wonton wrappers down in your muffin tins, ’til they form wonton cups. Bake at 425° for about 8 to 10 minutes. Then allow them to cool. 

    Chop or slice the red cabbage, and mince the green onions. Then drain and mince the water chestnuts.

    easy Asian salad recipe in blue mixing bowl

    In a mixing bowl, mix together the Ginger Soy chicken, broccoli slaw, red cabbage, green onions, almonds, and water chestnuts. Mix in the chow mein noodles last. 

    easy chicken salad recipe and wonton recipe with Asian flavors

    Add spoonfuls of the Asian chicken salad to the baked wonton cups, creating deliciously crunchy wonton appetizers. 

    bite sized wonton appetizers filled with Asian chicken salad

    I’m telling you, they are so full of flavor, and if you love the blend of Ginger Soy with veggies, you are going to love this appetizer. 

    Asian Chicken Salad wonton recipe

    If you’re looking for an easy appetizer, this Asian chicken salad wonton recipe is just the thing. It’s quick, simple, and delicious.

    Be sure to follow @StarKistCharlie on Instagram and Twitter, and Like StarKist on Facebook.

    More Asian recipes you may enjoy:

    Asian Chicken Salad Wonton Cups

    Make delicious asian chicken salad in crunchy baked wonton cups. Easy appetizer filled with ginger soy chicken, crunchy almonds, red cabbage, and more! 

    • 12 whole wonton wrappers
    • 7.8 ounces StarKist® Chicken Creations™ Ginger Soy ((3 pouches))
    • 1 cup broccoli slaw
    • 1/2 cup red cabbage (chopped or sliced)
    • 1/2 cup green onion (minced)
    • 1/4 cup almonds (sliced)
    • 1/4 cup water chestnuts (minced)
    • 1/2 cup chow mein noodles
    1. Pre-heat the oven to 425°. 
    2. Prepare your muffin tins by spraying the cups with cooking spray.
    3. Press 12 wonton wrappers down in your muffin tins, ’til they form wonton cups. 
    4. Bake at 425° for about 8 to 10 minutes. Then allow them to cool.
    5. Chop or slice the red cabbage, and mince the green onions. 
    6. Drain and mince the water chestnuts. 
    7. In a mixing bowl, mix together the Ginger Soy chicken, broccoli slaw, red cabbage, green onions, almonds, and water chestnuts. 
    8. Mix in the chow mein noodles last.
    9. Add spoonfuls of the Asian chicken salad to the baked wonton cups, creating deliciously crunchy wonton appetizers. 
    10. And that’s it. They’re ready to serve and enjoy!

    Baking times on the wonton cups may vary with different ovens.

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    Asian
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    Asian Chicken Salad Wonton Cups made with StarKist Chicken Creations Ginger Soy chicken
  • Delicious Salmon Patties Recipe

    Delicious Salmon Patties Recipe

    Simple and easy salmon patties, made with crackers. Delicious with tzatziki sauce and perfect for dinner or served as an appetizer.

    delicious salmon patties on white platter with small bowl of tzatziki sauce

    My mom used to make the best salmon patties when I was growing up; my dad did a lot of deep sea fishing, so a lot of times, she’d make them with home canned salmon. 

    Like grilled fish fillets, fried crappie and Instant Pot salmon, these fried salmon patties have so much flavor. Mom always knew just the right seasonings to add.

    fried salmon patties on a white serving platter with small bowl of tzatziki sauce

    While my salmon cakes can probably never live up to hers, I still enjoy making them for dinner, especially when we make tzatziki sauce to go with them. 

    I’ll keep perfecting my salmon patties recipe, and hopefully, some day I’ll come close to Mom’s.

    salmon patties torn in half in hands

    You can find a printable recipe below. 

    Ingredients you need to make this recipe for salmon patties:

    ingredients for salmon patties recipe, including canned salmon, Saltine crackers, lemon juice, eggs, fresh chives, fresh parsley, Miracle Whip, salt, and pepper

    Tips for how to make salmon patties:

    The first thing you’ll want to do if you’re using canned salmon, is to drain and rinse the salmon. Then add it to a large mixing bowl.

    Add the eggs and lemon juice to the salmon, and give it a good stir.

    Crush the Saltine crackers in a plastic baggie, using a rolling pin. Then add the crackers to your salmon mixture.

    Next, mix in the Miracle Whip.

    ingredients for salmon cakes in large blue mixing bowl with spatula

    Then add the salt, pepper, chives, and chopped fresh parsley. The mixture should be just right for forming 1 to 2 dozen salmon patties, depending on the size you make them.

    Add a dash of olive oil or a couple tablespoons of butter to a skillet and begin to warm.

    Grab about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and begin forming a patty. Repeat and continue until all of the mixture has been formed into patties.

    fried salmon patties in cast iron skillet

    Add the patties to your skillet (or griddle) and fry each side until the patties have turned a golden brown color and have a crispy texture. 

    salmon patties served on white platter with tzatziki sauce

    When they are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and serve while warm. 

    recipe for salmon patties, crispy and delicious

    If you have leftovers, they’re just as good the next day. 

    What to serve with salmon patties

    Salmon cakes are delicious when served with pasta, rice, vegetables, and more. We enjoy pairing them with a salmon patties sauce like tzatziki sauce, as well as spaghetti squash alfredo (minus the chicken).

    salmon patties cut in half served with salmon patties sauce

    They’d also pair well with a colorful salad. 

    More fish and seafood recipes you may enjoy:

    easy salmon cakes on white platter, served with homemade tzatziki sauce

    Kitchen tools you may need to make salmon patties:

    Strainer – This makes it easy to drain and rinse the salmon.
    Mixing bowl – You’ll need a large mixing bowl to mix up the salmon patties recipe.
    Rolling Pin – Makes it easy to crush up the Saltines.
    Skillet or Griddle – You’ll need a way to fry the salmon patties.
    Flipper or Turner – for turning the patties in the skillet.

    salmon cakes and tzatziki sauce on white platter

    Delicious Salmon Patties Recipe

    Simple and easy salmon patties, made with crackers. Delicious with tzatziki sauce and perfect for dinner or served as an appetizer.

    • 20 ounces canned salmon (boneless and skinless)
    • 4 whole eggs
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    • 64 whole Saltine crackers ((about 2 sleeves))
    • 1/2 cup Miracle Whip
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 tablespoon fresh chives (chopped)
    • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or salted butter)
    1. Drain and rinse the salmon. Then add it to a large mixing bowl.
    2. Add the eggs and lemon juice to the salmon, and give it a good stir.
    3. Crush the Saltine crackers in a plastic baggie, using a rolling pin. 
    4. Add the crackers to your salmon mixture.
    5. Next, mix in the Miracle Whip.
    6. Then add the salt, pepper, chives, and fresh parsley. Mix everything together well.
    7. Add a dash of olive oil or a couple tablespoons of butter to a skillet and begin to warm.
    8. Grab about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and begin forming a patty. Repeat and continue until all of the mixture has been formed into patties.
    9. Add the patties to your skillet (or griddle) and fry each side on low to medium heat until the patties have turned a golden brown color and have a crispy texture.
    10. When they are cooked through, remove them from the skillet, allow to drain, and serve while warm. 
    11. They pair deliciously well with this homemade tzatziki sauce.

    You can use canned salmon or fresh salmon, totally up to you.

    You can also substitute dried chives or parsley for fresh.

    If you have leftovers, these salmon patties are just as good the next day.

    Seafood Recipes
    American
    salmon cakes, salmon patties, salmon patties recipe

    Update Notes: This recipe was originally published in 2013, but was re-published with bigger photos and more details in July of 2018.

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  • Easy Fish Tacos with a Tzatziki Fish Taco Sauce

    Easy Fish Tacos with a Tzatziki Fish Taco Sauce

    Fish Tacos – Easy, simple, delicious, crispy fish tacos recipe with a low carb tzatziki fish taco sauce. Perfect dinner idea for Taco Tuesday!

    Tacos = life. Do you agree? If you said yes, you’re going to love this recipe for the most deliciously crispy fish tacos with the most deliciously creamy tzatziki fish taco sauce ever!

    fish tacos with all the fixings on a wooden cutting board

    We grilled trout fillets to use in our tacos. However, you can use any white, flaky fish you want for this fish tacos recipe. Sometimes we just make salmon in the Instant Pot if we don’t have time to fire up the grill!

    You can also cook the fish however you choose, though grilling is definitely my favorite way to eat fish. Except, of course, when we make salmon into the most delicious salmon patties; they are definitely a family favorite. And my boys love pan fried crappie after a good fishing trip!

    I’ll share a few alternative options for how to cook fish below.

    Not a fan of fish? No problem! Try our Chicken Tacos or Ground Beef Tacos.

    fish tacos with a tzatziki fish taco sauce on a wooden cutting board

    Choose the right fish for fish tacos and cook it!

    While we used trout, you can use any white, flaky fish. Food and Wine has a great article on how to choose the right fish for tacos.

    Once you’ve chosen the fish you want to use, you’ll need to cook it. We highly recommend grilling on a charcoal grill or gas grill to give your fish a smoky, slightly blackened flavor.

    But if you don’t want to grill or don’t have access to a grill, you can certainly bake the fish or even fry the fish. I’m pretty sure you can even cook fish in your Instant Pot, though you’d definitely want to check pressure cooking times and settings.

    fish tacos recipe ingredients, including cheese, tomatoes, and green onions

    Gather your ingredients for this fish tacos recipe:

    • Lettuce
    • Tomatoes
    • Monterey Jack cheese

    How to make taco shells for crispy fish tacos:

    To make your own crispy taco shells (they remind me of a Taco Bell Chalupa shell)…

    frying corn tortillas in an iron skillet for fish tacos recipe
    • Heat about a tablespoon of bacon grease in a skillet; let it melt and heat up.
    • Add a corn tortilla to the skillet, letting it cook on one side.
    • Use tongs to turn the tortilla and let the other side cook.
    • Finally, remove the tortilla from the skillet and let drain on a paper towel or paper bag for maybe 30 seconds or so.
    • Fold into a taco shape and place in either a taco holder or the bottom side of a muffin pan.

    And that’s it, you’ve made your own taco shells. They’re so good!

    grilled fish tacos with a creamy tzatziki fish taco sauce in a muffin pan

    Tips for how to make grilled fish tacos:

    First, grill the fish; or cook it however you choose.

    Prep all your fresh ingredients. Wash and chop the lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions. Also, shred the cheese.

    Fry up a batch of corn tortillas to form taco shells. You can use bacon grease or oil.

    Once the fish is fully cooked, taco shells are done, and fresh ingredients are prepped, you’re ready to start the process of layering.

    start with a layer of fish in a crispy taco shell for fish tacos

    You can layer ingredients in any order you want (I layer them a bit differently in the video and photos from what I describe here), but I prefer to add the fish into the taco shell first, then the cheese (it gets all melty on the warm meat), and go from there.

    Add a layer of lettuce.

    add layer of lettuce to fish tacos

    Then add a layer of tomatoes.

    layer of tomatoes on lettuce in fish tacos

    Now add the cheese, green onions, and whatever else your heart desires.

    layer of cheese and green onions in fish tacos

    Don’t forget a dollop of tzatziki sauce (though I love adding a good layer of fish taco sauce or sour cream before I even add the meat; that way I have the sauce in every single bite).

    fish tacos with tzatziki sauce for a fish taco sauce

    And that’s it. Tacos are the easiest thing to make on a busy weeknight!

    More Tex Mex recipes you may enjoy:

    Doritos Walking Taco

    Crab Enchilada Recipe

    Beef Taco Stuffed Peppers

    Chicken and Hummus Loaded Nachos in a Sheet Pan

    Easy Chicken Fajitas

    Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

    Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas

    the best fish tacos ever with a tzatziki fish taco sauce on a wooden cutting board

    Kitchen tools you may need to make fish tacos:

    Charcoal Grill or Gas Grill – We love using our charcoal grill.

    Grilling Spatula – for turning the fish and carefully removing it from the grill.

    Iron Skillet – We’re avid users of cast iron cookware. We even take our favorite iron skillet camping with us.

    Tongs – They’ll be needed for flipping the corn tortillas in the skillet.

    Taco Holder – Ok, so you don’t technically NEED this, but it sure does come in handy. I just use the bottom side of my muffin pan.

    Cutting Board and Knife – You’ll use this for way more than just one recipe. We use ours just about every time we step foot in the kitchen.

    grilled fish tacos with a creamy tzatziki fish taco sauce on a wooden cutting board

    Easy Fish Tacos with a Tzatziki Fish Taco Sauce

    Easy, simple, delicious, crispy fish tacos recipe with a low carb tzatziki fish taco sauce. Perfect dinner idea for Taco Tuesday!

    • 2 pounds fish fillets (grilled or cooked)
    • 12 whole corn tortillas
    • 3 tablespoons bacon grease
    • 1/2 head lettuce
    • 6 whole Roma tomatoes (chopped)
    • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
    • 4 ounces cheddar cheese (shredded)
    • 6 whole green onions (chopped)
    • 1/4 cup cilantro (optional)
    • 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
    1. First, grill the fish fillets; or cook it however you choose. 
    2. Prep all your fresh ingredients. Wash and chop the lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions. Also, shred the cheese.
    3. Fry up a batch of corn tortillas to form taco shells. You can use bacon grease or canola oil.
    4. Once the fish is fully cooked, taco shells are done, and fresh ingredients are prepped, you’re ready to start the process of layering. You can layer ingredients in any order you want. 
    5. Add the fish into the taco shell first, then the cheese.
    6. Layer lettuce, a layer of tomatoes, green onions, and whatever else your heart desires. 
    7. Add a dollop of tzatziki sauce or sour cream to top them off.

    You can use canola oil in place of bacon grease.

    And you can also substitute sour cream for the tzatziki sauce.

    When it comes to layering, I actually really love layering starting with the sauce first (so there’s sauce in every bite), then the fish, the cheese so it gets a little melty on the hot meat, then all the rest of the layers.

    Dinner Ideas
    Tex-Mex
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    Easy Fish Tacos with a Tzatziki Fish Taco Sauce
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  • Simple and Delicious Grilled Fish Fillets Recipe

    Simple and Delicious Grilled Fish Fillets Recipe

    This grilled fish fillets recipe adds a whole new level of deliciousness to dinner. Healthy, delicious, lightly seasoned fish fillets on the grill.

    grilled fish fillets with cilantro on a baking sheet

    While I haven’t always been a big fish eater, I do love fishing with my boys. And I do appreciate the mild flavor of fried crappie! With our busy schedule, we usually make Instant Pot salmon, but I recently learned that I actually really love fish fillets that are cooked on the grill, especially paired with our favorite tzatziki sauce, this salsa recipe with fruit, or this peach and mango salsa. 

    Fish has so many health benefits, and we are trying to incorporate more of it into our family meals with recipes like our favorite salmon patties. I think in the past maybe we’ve gone with the wrong kinds of fish (that fishy taste), or we’ve cooked it incorrectly.

    After grilling this last batch of trout fillets, I can honestly say I loved them. They were so easy to make, just lightly seasoned, and everyone ate them up; in fact, we used them to make the most delicious fish tacos, which goes really well with homemade pork fried rice!

    I mentioned the health benefits; are you aware of the following?

    • Fish is filled with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins like Vitamin D, a vitamin that many of us are lacking these days. Just the omega-3’s alone are worth adding a good amount of fish to your weekly menu. We’re talking heart and brain health.
    • Fish has lots of calcium.
    • It’s also rich in minerals.
    • Fish contains essentially a “Caf-Pow” of protein (clearly, I’ve watched way too much NCIS).
    grilled fish fillets with a dollop of tzatziki sauce

    Those are just a few of the many benefits of adding more fish in our diets. So, let’s get to the grilling of these amazing fillets, so you can start enjoying the benefits of fish.

    Ingredients needed to grill trout fillets or any white, flaky fish fillets:

    Tips and tricks for how to grill fish fillets on a charcoal grill:

    The first step is to get your grill going. We prefer using a charcoal grill, but you can use any type of grill.

    Heat up the grill while you prepare the fish.

    Rinse and pat the fish fillets dry.

    grill fish with a coating of olive oil and salt and pepper seasoning

    Add the olive oil to a large bowl, and coat the fish in the oil. 

    Place each fillet on a baking sheet. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.

    grill trout fillets on a charcoal grill

    Place each of the fish fillets on the already heated grill. You can also use a plank, but there is definitely an art to grilling with a plank, so this recipe is focusing on adding the fillets straight onto the grill. 

    grilled fish fillets recipe, cooked ad placed on a baking sheet

    Grill fish on high for 10 to 12 minutes, turning for the last 1 to 2 minutes. 

    Use a grilling spatula to carefully get under the whole fillet and pick it up off the grill. Serve immediately with tzatziki sauce and your favorite sides. Grilled fish pairs really well with spaghetti squash alfredo (minus the chicken), broccoli salad, biscuits, or pasta salad.

    More grilling recipes you may enjoy:

    grilled fish fillets served with tzatziki sauce

    Kitchen tools you may need to make this grilled fish fillets recipe:

    Charcoal Grill or Gas Grill – We love using our charcoal grill.
    Large Bowl – for coating the fillets with olive oil.
    Baking Sheet – for seasoning the fish fillets.
    Grilling Spatula – for turning the fish and carefully removing it from the grill.
    Fish Oven Mitts – You may or may not need oven mitts for grilling, but aren’t these fun?!

    Simple and Delicious Grilled Fish Fillets

    This grilled fish fillets recipe adds a whole new level of deliciousness to dinner. Healthy, delicious, lightly seasoned fish fillets on the grill.

    • 2 pounds fish
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 teaspoons salt
    • 2 teaspoons black pepper
    1. Heat up the grill while you prepare the fish.
    2. Rinse and pat the fish fillets dry.
    3. Add the olive oil to a large bowl, and coat the fish in the oil.
    4. Place each fillet on a baking sheet.
    5. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
    6. Place each of the fish fillets directly onto the already heated grill. 
    7. Grill fish on high for 10 to 12 minutes, turning for the last 1 to 2 minutes.
    8. Use a grilling spatula to carefully get under the whole fillet and pick it up off the grill. 
    9. Serve immediately with tzatziki sauce and your favorite sides. 

    Grilled fish fillets pair really well with spaghetti squash alfredo (minus the chicken), broccoli salad, biscuits, or pasta salad.

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  • Mexican Corn on the Cob with Bacon

    Mexican Corn on the Cob with Bacon

    Mexican Corn on the Cob with Bacon – How to transform grilled corn on the cob into Mexican corn, with a tasty addition of bacon sprinkled on top. Delicious, flavorful side dish recipe!

    Mexican corn on a baking sheet with mayo, feta cheese, cilantro, bacon, and lime wedges

    One of our all-time favorite summer sides for my favorite Crock Pot pork roast, roast beef Philly cheesesteaks and baked chicken drumsticks is corn on the cob, both grilled and pressure cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. Now we have a way to dress up grilled corn on the cob and transform it into our new favorite, Mexican corn.

    Trust me when I say, this is such a delicious recipe. I know what you’re thinking, though.

    Ew, mayo and butter on corn? No way! Oh yes way.

    Just give it a chance, because the combination of ingredients in this Mexican street corn recipe make a very flavorful, crispy, tasty ear of corn. Just one bite, and those ears will fly off the table.

    All you need are a few ingredients to make this amazing Mexican corn recipe. And if you’d rather have it in casserole form, you can make Mexican Corn Casserole.

    Grilled ear of Mexican corn on the cob with all the fixings, including mayo, Feta cheese, cilantro, and bacon

    Ingredients you’ll need to make Mexican corn:

    [mv_video doNotAutoplayNorOptimizePlacement=”false” doNotOptimizePlacement=”false” jsonLd=”true” key=”uozfsoew8h07siilbbas” thumbnail=”https://mediavine-res.cloudinary.com/video/upload/uozfsoew8h07siilbbas.jpg” title=”Mexican Corn on the Cob with Bacon” volume=”100″]
    grilled Mexican corn on baking sheet with lime wedges and bacon crumbles

    Tips for how to make delicious Mexican corn on the cob:

    Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, your first step is to get the grill going. You can use any type of grill, either a charcoal grill or gas grill; we prefer charcoal, mainly for the taste it gives the food.

    Shuck and wash the corn. Then grill the corn until it’s done and slightly charred; as you grill it, make sure you stay with it and turn it often with a good pair of grilling tongs.

    slightly charred grilled corn on the cob for Mexican corn recipe

    Once the corn is cooked to perfection, take it off the grill and put it on a baking sheet.

    Generously butter each ear of corn.

    Butter ears of grilled corn on the cob for Mexican corn on the cob recipe

    Use a basting brush to brush a generous helping of mayo onto each ear of corn, turning the ear to make sure it’s coated well all the way around.

    brushing mayo onto ears of grilled corn with basting brush for mexican street corn recipe

    Sprinkle chili powder on every ear, again turning to sprinkle all the way around each ear.

    sprinkling chili powder on grilled corn for Mexican corn recipe

    Crumble Feta cheese on top of each ear of corn.

    crumbling Feta cheese onto grilled corn on the cob for Mexican corn recipe

    Sprinkle all the corn with a good helping of chopped up cilantro.

    adding cilantro to mexican corn on the cob

    Crumble real bacon on top of each ear… Because bacon makes everything better, right?

    crumbled bacon on Mexican corn

    Finally, cut your limes into wedges, and give a good squeeze of lime juice over everything. This will give the flavors just a hint of citrus kick.

    squeezing lime juice onto ears of grilled Mexican corn on the cob

    And that’s it. You’re ready to eat!

    boy eating Mexican corn

    This corn pairs really well with pork chops, bacon cheeseburgers, Chicago hot dogs, garlic parmesan chicken skewers, crock pot sloppy joes and shrimp kabobs! If you’re looking for a high quality meat to grill with your corn, click here to see what Snake River Farms has to offer. 

    Mexican corn on the cob on a baking sheet

    Alternative ingredient options for your Mexican corn recipe

    There are certain ingredients you can substitute for others when you’re making a Mexican street corn recipe.

    • Instead of mayonnaise, you can use a plain Greek yogurt or sour cream; or maybe even a combination.
    • If you don’t want the flavors of chili powder, you can give the corn a little kick with cayenne pepper or a little hot sauce drizzled over the corn.
    • Feta cheese is absolutely delicious on this corn; but you can use parmesan, Cotija cheese, or Queso Fresco.
    • Cilantro is totally optional, but it does add an interesting citrus-like taste.
    • Instead of bacon, you could use diced up ham. Or no meat at all.
    • Limes, lemons, you call the shots. It’s your food. But I do love a squirt of lime juice. It just gives the corn an oomph.
    • It’s got plenty of flavor, but a dash of black pepper would give it a li’l extra spicy kick.
    • This peach mango salsa makes the best topping for Mexican corn!
    holding an ear of Mexican corn

    More corn recipes you may enjoy:

    Grilled Corn in the Husk with Honey Butter

    Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

    Corn Casserole with Bacon

    Mexican Corn Casserole with Bacon

    Creamy Potato Corn Chowder

    grilled Mexican corn on a baking sheet

    Tools you may need to make Mexican corn:

    Charcoal Grill or Gas Grill – We love using our charcoal grill.

    Grilling Tongs – You’ll need tongs to turn the corn on the grill.

    Basting Brush – to brush on the butter and mayo.

    Baking Sheet – This works really well to hold all the corn as you dress it up into Mexican corn.

    grilled Mexican corn on the cob on baking sheet with lime wedges

    Cute Dachshund Corn Holders – Because they’re fun… And cute!

    Mexican Corn on the Cob with Bacon

    How to transform grilled corn on the cob into Mexican corn, with a tasty addition of bacon sprinkled on top. Delicious, flavorful side dish recipe!

    • 8 ears corn on the cob
    • 8 tablespoons salted butter
    • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
    • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • 4 ounces Feta cheese (crumbled)
    • 3 tablespoons cilantro (chopped)
    • 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
    • 1 whole lime
    1. Start up the grill first. You can use any type of grill, either a charcoal grill or gas grill; we prefer charcoal, mainly for the taste it gives the food.
    2. Shuck and wash the corn.
    3. Grill the corn until it’s done and slightly charred; as you grill it, make sure you stay with it and turn it often with a good pair of grilling tongs.
    4. Once the corn is cooked to perfection, take it off the grill and put it on a baking sheet.
    5. Generously butter each ear of corn.
    6. Use a basting brush to brush a generous helping of mayo onto each ear of corn, turning the ear to make sure it’s coated well all the way around.
    7. Sprinkle chili powder on every ear, again turning to sprinkle all the way around each ear.
    8. Crumble Feta cheese on top of each ear of corn.
    9. Sprinkle all the corn with a good helping of chopped up cilantro.
    10. Crumble real bacon on top of each ear.
    11. Finally, cut your limes into wedges, and give a good squeeze of lime juice over everything. 
    12. And that’s it. You’re ready to eat! This corn pairs really well with pork chops, burgers, Chicago hot dogs, and shrimp kabobs!
    Side Dish
    Tex-Mex
    Mexican corn, Mexican corn on the cob
    Mexican Corn on the Cob with Bacon
    Mexican corn on the cob recipe
    Grilled Mexican Corn Recipe made with grilled corn on the cob
  • Maple Bourbon Marinated Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

    Maple Bourbon Marinated Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

    Easy recipe for grilled shrimp kabobs marinated with the most delicious, two ingredient, maple bourbon grilled shrimp marinade, then skewered with pineapple chunks and thrown on the grill.

    maple bourbon grilled shrimp kabobs with pineapple on a cookie sheet

    We’ve been a huge fan of the flavor that maple syrup and bourbon give together, especially since we shared the recipe for our Maple Bourbon Brined Turkey. We had to give a similar (but much simpler) glaze a try with our grilled shrimp kabobs. 

    Shrimp is so easy to make, I don’t know why we haven’t shared more easy shrimp recipes. But get ready because I have a feeling we’ll be sharing more in the near future.

    up close shrimp kabobs with pineapple grilled and placed on a cookie sheet

    I’m not quite sure how to describe the flavor that maple and bourbon give together. It’s slightly sweet, slightly tangy. These grilled shrimp kabobs are juicy and flavorful, just like my garlic parmesan chicken skewers.

    Our grilled shrimp marinade is as simple and easy as 2 ingredients. And just in case you’re wondering where to buy shrimp if you don’t live near a coast… We bought frozen, already cooked shrimp at Aldi, $4.99 for a 12-ounce bag.

    How to make a simple grilled shrimp marinade:

    You’ll need 2 ingredients for this simple marinade recipe… Real maple syrup (make sure it’s real) and bourbon. If you’re not sure where to buy bourbon, Saucey will deliver it right to your home.

    maple bourbon marinade for grilled shrimp recipe
    • Mix the maple syrup and bourbon together in a bowl.
    • Then pour into a gallon-sized bag with your shrimp (about two 12-ounce bags of already cooked shrimp).
    • Seal the bag and allow the shrimp to soak in the mixture for 20 to 25 minutes in the refrigerator.
    soak shrimp in grilled shrimp marinade in gallon bag

    Meanwhile, get the grill heated up and going; we prefer using a charcoal grill, but you can use any type of grill.

    Tips for how to make grilled shrimp kabobs:

    Gather the rest of your ingredients… You’ll need the marinated shrimp, fresh pineapple chunks, and optional cayenne pepper.

    add marinated shrimp and pineapple chunks to skewers for shrimp kabobs

    Take your skewers and alternate adding the marinated shrimp and pineapple chunks to each skewer. 

    grilling marinated shrimp kabobs on a charcoal grill

    Once your skewers are filled with shrimp and fresh pineapple chunks, place them on the already heated grill. 

    grilled shrimp recipe for maple bourbon grilled shrimp kabobs sprinkled with cayenne pepper on the grill

    Sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper on the kabobs… This step is optional but adds a little spicy taste. 

    brushing a maple bourbon grilled shrimp marinade or glaze on shrimp kabobs on the charcoal grill

    Brush a bit of the marinade on when the shrimp kabobs begin to cook, and grill on high for 5 to 7 minutes per side. 

    maple bourbon grilled shrimp kabobs, easy shrimp recipe

    And that’s really all there is to this grilled shrimp recipe. Easy peasy! I like to top mine off with a fresh batch of sweet fruit salsa, or sometimes peach and mango salsa!

    More grilling recipes you may enjoy:

    Tools you may need to make shrimp kabobs:

    grilled maple bourbon shrimp kabobs with pineapple chunks and bits of parsley

    Mixing Bowl – A medium sized bowl will come in handy for mixing the maple syrup and bourbon together before pouring it over the shrimp in a gallon-sized bag.
    Charcoal Grill or Gas Grill – We love using our charcoal grill.
    Skewers – You’ll need skewers to make kabobs; we have metal skewers similar to this, and they’re so easy to use.
    Grilling Tongs – You’ll need tongs to turn the shrimp kabobs on the grill.
    Basting Brush – to brush on the maple bourbon grilled shrimp marinade. 

    Maple Bourbon Marinated Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

    Easy recipe for grilled shrimp kabobs marinated with the most delicious, two ingredient, maple bourbon grilled shrimp marinade, then skewered with pineapple chunks and thrown on the grill.

    • 1/4 cup real maple syrup
    • 1/4 cup bourbon
    • 24 ounces frozen cooked shrimp (thawed)
    • 1 whole pineapple (cut into chunks)
    • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
    1. Mix the maple syrup and bourbon together in a bowl.
    2. Then pour the mixture into a gallon-sized bag with the thawed shrimp.
    3. Seal the bag and allow the shrimp to soak in the mixture for 20 to 25 minutes in the refrigerator.
    4. Meanwhile, heat up the grill; we prefer using a charcoal grill, but you can use any type of grill. 
    5. Take your skewers and alternate adding the marinated shrimp and pineapple chunks to each skewer.
    6. Once your skewers are filled with shrimp and fresh pineapple chunks, place them on the already heated grill.
    7. Sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper on the kabobs… This step is optional but adds a little spicy taste.
    8. Brush a bit of the marinade on when the shrimp kabobs begin to cook, and grill on high for 5 to 7 minutes per side. The shrimp and pineapple will start to blacken up just a bit.
    9. Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove from the grill and serve immediately with your favorite sauce.
    Seafood Recipes
    American
    grilled shrimp marinade, shrimp kabobs
    Maple Bourbon Marinated Grilled Shrimp Kabobs easy shrimp recipe
    Maple Bourbon Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
    easy maple bourbon grilled shrimp kabobs recipe
  • Easy Meatloaf with Oatmeal (How to Make + Video)

    Easy Meatloaf with Oatmeal (How to Make + Video)

    How to make an old-fashioned meatloaf with oatmeal just like Mom used to make. Easy classic dinner recipe you can quickly mix together and pop in the oven. So much flavor, it’s not your average meatloaf!

    Oatmeal meatloaf is one meal that our whole family loves, and it’s become a go to meal for me when planning our menus. I love making it because I know we’ll get at least 2 meals out of 1 easy meatloaf recipe with oats; same when we make Instant Pot meatloaf and potatoes and my traditional meatloaf recipe, a more classic recipe with a sauce.

    meatloaf with oatmeal baked in white baking dish

    Now I know this classic meatloaf recipe definitely has some carbs; so I’ve actually taken my meatball recipe and kinda tweaked it to make a low carb meatloaf recipe if you’re looking for a low carb option.

    This family favorite meatloaf with oatmeal is super easy to make and so full of flavor. Basically, dump the ingredients in a bowl, mix them up, and drop the whole mixture into a baking pan. Sometimes we even scoop it into muffin tins to make meatloaf muffins!

    easy meatloaf recipe with oatmeal sliced on a pretty white plate ready to serve with a fork

    Meatloaf Ingredients and Substitutions Notes

    To make this flavorful meatloaf recipe with oatmeal, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients.

    • Ground Beef – To make the best meatloaf recipe, it’s best to use a lean ground beef; we prefer to use 90/10 or 85/15 ground beef when mixing up a meatloaf. Our reasons are that it’s leaner, there’s less fat, and there will be less grease around your meatloaf. Don’t worry about flavor… You’ll still get really great flavor from a leaner ground beef. And you’ll also be eating a bit healthier, as well. Note: You can use all or half ground turkey or ground pork for this recipe in place of ground beef. However, it will change the look, texture, and flavor of your finished meatloaf.
    • Large Eggs
    • Yellow Onion – Chop or mince the onion. You can use sweet onion, but I like the kick in flavor from a yellow onion.
    • Ketchup – You’ll need ketchup for the meatloaf mixture and the top of the meatloaf.
    • Barbecue Sauce – This gives a smoky flavor to the meat; it’s so good!
    • Oatmeal – Oats are the secret to moist meatloaf; they help make a very tender meatloaf. I generally use old-fashioned rolled oats or quick oats to make this juicy meatloaf with oatmeal recipe; I don’t recommend using steel-cut oats, mainly for texture reasons. If using old-fashioned oats, try soaking them in milk before adding them to the mixture, to help soften them. I’ve even used gluten-free quick oats, so if you want a gluten-free meatloaf with oats, this is the way to go (although you should also check ingredient labels on your other ingredients just to be safe). If you don’t have oats, and you want, you can also sub bread crumbs or cracker crumbs with a 1:1 ratio.
    • Seasoned Salt – You can use a good seasoning salt or just plain salt and pepper.

    Keep in mind, this is a 2 lb meatloaf recipe; to make a 1 lb meatloaf recipe with oatmeal, just cut the ingredient amounts in half.

    How to Make Meatloaf with Oatmeal

    You’ll need to pre-heat your oven to 350° F, and grease a 13”x9” baking dish with cooking spray for homemade meatloaf.

    1. Add all of the ingredients, including the ground beef, eggs, minced onion, ketchup, BBQ sauce, oatmeal, and seasoned salt to a large bowl. Mix well using a large fork; or you can just use your hands.
    mixing ingredients for meatloaf recipe with oatmeal in blue mixing bowl
    1. Once everything in the large mixing bowl has been mixed together well, transfer the meat mixture to the 9×13 baking dish, and shape it into a loaf. You can pat the ground beef into a larger loaf and bake it in the 9×13 meatloaf pan; or we’ve even made it by patting the meatloaf into a larger baking sheet. If you do choose to make it in a sheet pan, it likely won’t need as long to bake.
    hands shaping oatmeal meatloaf in white baking dish on white marble countertop
    1. Then an optional step, but one I highly recommend… Squirt ketchup all over the top of the meatloaf.
    unbaked oatmeal meatloaf covered with ketchup in a white baking dish

    How Long to Cook a 2-Pound Meatloaf

    Bake the meatloaf at 350° F for about an hour, longer if needed, until the internal temperature reaches 160° F. Again, a meat thermometer is definitely something I recommend to make sure the meat has come to temp and is fully cooked.

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Can I sub bread crumbs for oatmeal 1:1 in meatloaf?

    If you must use something other than oatmeal, you can sub 1:1, bread crumbs or crackers. I’ve subbed gluten-free saltine cracker crumbs in a pinch, and they make a delicious meatloaf, as well.

    Should I cover my meatloaf while baking?

    There’s really no need to cover it with aluminum foil, unless your meatloaf starts to brown too quickly on the top or sides… But I have never had this problem. Keep in mind, I use a gas oven, so oven times may vary.

    How should meatloaf be stored?

    You can keep leftover meatloaf in the original baking dish and cover with plastic wrap or foil; or you can put whatever’s left in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days. We usually make the BEST meatloaf sandwiches with our leftovers the next day.

    Can I make this old-fashioned meatloaf recipe ahead?

    If you want to make meatloaf ahead of time without baking, just mix it all up, shape it in the baking dish, cover, and store in the fridge ’til you’re ready to bake it. You can keep it in the fridge overnight.

    Can I freeze meatloaf?

    Yes, you can freeze meatloaf before or after cooking. Just be sure it’s wrapped tightly or stored properly in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It should keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

    homemade easy meatloaf recipe with oats in a white baking dish

    Optional Recipe Variations

    There are a few things you can add to give this simple meatloaf recipe with oats even more of a flavor kick…

    • Add a bit of Worcestershire sauce, which pairs well with just about any beef dish.
    • Add a dash of onion powder and minced garlic (or garlic powder) to the meat mixture.
    • Put bacon slices on top of the meatloaf before you bake it.
    • Top with a mixture of both ketchup and bbq sauce.
    • Make a simple meatloaf glaze with ketchup or tomato sauce, mustard, bbq sauce, and brown sugar for the top of the meatloaf.

    Great Side Dishes to Serve with Meatloaf

    When it’s fully cooked, remove it from the oven; and serve it with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or broccoli.

    You can even do what my family absolutely LOVES to do with meatloaf… Make the most delicious meatloaf sandwich ever! Mmmm, I love meatloaf sandwiches… My favorite way to use leftovers!

    forked bite of meatloaf with oatmeal on white plate

    More Favorite Meat Recipes:

    If you love this easy meatloaf recipe, you’ll love these meaty main dishes too…

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Meatloaf with Oatmeal

    How to make an old-fashioned meatloaf with oatmeal just like Mom used to make. Easy classic dinner recipe you can pop in the oven.

    • Large Mixing Bowl
    • 9×13 Baking Dish
    • Meat Thermometer
    • 2 pounds ground beef
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1/2 large yellow onion (minced)
    • 1/2 cup ketchup
    • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
    • 2 cups old-fashioned oatmeal
    • 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
    • 4 to 6 tablespoons ketchup (for the top of the meatloaf)

    1. Pre-heat the oven to 350° F, and grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.

    2. Add all of the ingredients, including the ground beef, eggs, minced onion, ketchup, bbq sauce, oatmeal, and seasoned salt, to a large bowl. Mix well using a large fork; or you can just use your hands.

    3. Transfer the meat mixture to the greased 9×13 baking dish, and shape it into a loaf.

    4. Squirt ketchup all over the top of the meatloaf.

    5. Bake the meatloaf at 350° F for about 1 hour, or longer if needed, until the internal temperature reaches 160° F. I definitely recommend a meat thermometer, to make sure the meat has come to temp and is fully cooked.

    6. When it’s fully cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven; slice it and serve with your favorite sides.

    *We prefer to use 90/10 or 85/15 ground beef when mixing up a meatloaf. Our reasons are that it’s leaner, there’s less fat, and there will be less grease around your meatloaf. Don’t worry about flavor… You’ll still get really good flavor from a leaner ground beef. And you’ll also be eating a bit healthier, as well. Note: You can use all or half ground turkey or ground pork for this recipe in place of ground beef. However, it will change the look, texture, and flavor of your finished meatloaf.

    *I’ve used both old-fashioned oats and quick oats for this meatloaf. I’ve even used gluten-free quick oats, so if you want a gluten-free meatloaf with oats, this is the way to go (although you should also check ingredient labels on your other ingredients just to be safe).

    Should I cover the meatloaf while baking?

    There’s really no need to, unless your meatloaf starts to brown too quickly on the top or sides… But I have never had this problem. Keep in mind, I use a gas oven, so oven times may vary.

    How to store meatloaf?

    You can keep leftover meatloaf in the original baking dish and cover with plastic wrap or foil; or you can put whatever’s left in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days.

    Can I make it ahead?

    If you want to make meatloaf ahead of time without baking, just mix it all up, shape it in the baking dish, cover, and store in the fridge ’til you’re ready to bake it. You can keep it in the fridge overnight.

    Dinner Ideas, main dish
    American
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  • Easy Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo

    Easy Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo

    Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo, made with shredded chicken and an easy homemade Alfredo sauce, is a healthy recipe for dinner. So creamy and delicious!

    spaghetti squash chicken alfredo on a plate with fork

    Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo is one of my family’s favorite weeknight meals, probably because it’s so easy to make, especially when we cook the spaghetti squash in the Instant Pot.

    I love it too because it’s a healthy meal we can all enjoy together. And it pairs really well (minus the chicken) with fish fillets and salmon patties.

    While I do love pasta, I’ve grown quite accustomed to replacing all our favorite pasta dishes with spaghetti squash instead. It’s actually a really delicious alternative to carb heavy pastas.

    We make an easy homemade alfredo sauce that calls for 4 simple ingredients. Heavy whipping cream is the base for this sauce, mainly because it has no carbs. Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese) adds some pretty excellent flavor to the sauce, as well.

    healthy chicken alfredo with spaghetti squash on a blue plate

    If you’ve never had spaghetti squash chicken alfredo, now’s the time to make it. Pair it with a batch of quick garlic breadsticks, and it’ll quickly climb to the top of your favorite dinner ideas.

    [mv_video doNotAutoplayNorOptimizePlacement=”false” jsonLd=”true” key=”nhrxaov5gdkchhhejyn0″ sticky=”false” thumbnail=”https://mediavine-res.cloudinary.com/v1520216541/sujmcqpn3oi00wrbtb42.jpg” title=”Easy Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo” volume=”100″]

    Tips for how to make healthy chicken Alfredo:

    Gather your ingredients… You’ll need an already cooked spaghetti squash, 2 cooked chicken breasts, heavy whipping cream, Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) cheese, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley.

    1. Cook the spaghetti squash and chicken beforehand. An easy option is to cook either or both in the Instant Pot.
    2. Prep the spaghetti squash by pulling the squash out of the skin.
    3. Shred the chicken.
    4. To make the sauce, pour the heavy whipping cream into a large skillet or saucepan.
    5. Stir constantly to avoid scorching, and allow the cream to come to a boil.
    6. Slowly whisk the cheese into the simmering cream. The sauce will start to thicken.
    7. At this point, whisk the salt and pepper into the sauce.
    8. Use tongs to add spaghetti squash to your plate.
    9. Add a handful of shredded chicken on top.
    10. Finally, add Alfredo sauce to your liking.
    11. Top it all off with a light sprinkling of parsley.
    Plate full of easy chicken fettuccine alfredo made with spaghetti squash

    More Pasta Dishes You May Enjoy:

    Kitchen tools you may need to make easy chicken fettuccine Alfredo:

    plated chicken fettuccine Alfredo recipe using spaghetti squash as a low carb alternative

    Instant Pot – We use our Instant Pot several times a week, if not every day, and it makes cooking the spaghetti squash a breeze.
    Cutting Board – Perfect for prepping the squash and shredding the chicken.
    Large Skillet or Saucepan – We love using a deeper iron skillet to make the sauce.
    Heat Resistant Spatula – One of my favorite tools to use for stirring.
    Whisk – For stirring in the cheese, salt, and pepper.
    Tongs – They make it easy to serve up the squash.

    Print this chicken fettuccine Alfredo recipe:

    Easy Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo

    Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo, made with shredded chicken and an easy homemade Alfredo sauce, is a healthy recipe for dinner. So creamy and delicious!

    • 1 cooked spaghetti squash
    • 2 cooked chicken breasts
    • 3 cups heavy whipping cream
    • 1/2 pound Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese)
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • Fresh parsley
    1. Cook the spaghetti squash and chicken beforehand. An easy option is to cook either or both in the Instant Pot.
    2. Prep the spaghetti squash by pulling the squash out of the skin.
    3. Shred the chicken.
    4. To make the sauce, pour the heavy whipping cream into a large skillet or saucepan.
    5. Stir constantly to avoid scorching, and allow the cream to come to a boil.
    6. Slowly whisk the cheese into the simmering cream. The sauce will start to thicken.
    7. At this point, whisk the salt and pepper into the sauce.
    8. Use tongs to add spaghetti squash to your plate.
    9. Add a handful of shredded chicken on top.
    10. Finally, add Alfredo sauce to your liking.
    11. Top it all off with a light sprinkling of parsley.

     

    Pasta
    Italian
    chicken alfredo, spaghetti squash chicken alfredo

    Pin this recipe for future dinner ideas!

    Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo
    Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo with fork on a plate
  • Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs – So easy to make. How to cook baby back ribs using a sweet chili dry rub that gives them a wonderful flavor. They’re fall off the bone delicious!

    Last week one of our cooking show viewers requested that we cook ribs in the Instant Pot. We decided that was a great idea and came up with this Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs recipe.

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs on a cutting board

    It’s a recipe that takes delicious to a whole new level. And I’ll let you in on a little secret… I’d never made ribs before this recipe. I’m not sure why because it was so, so easy!

    Dan came up with a baby back rib rub that gives the ribs so much wonderful flavor. They don’t even need any salt; that’s how good they taste.

    Baby back rib rub with baby back ribs on a cutting board

    It’s a simple recipe with simple ingredients. And it also doesn’t take a ton of time to make. If you have an Instant Pot, you’re in business.

    How to make Baby Back Ribs in the Instant Pot

    If you love pork recipes, you may also enjoy our roasted pork tenderloin and oven roasted pork roast recipe.

    Tips for how to cook baby back ribs in your Instant Pot:

    First of all, gather your ingredients… You will need light brown sugar, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, ground black pepper, water, apple cider vinegar, baby back ribs, and BBQ sauce.

    • Rinse the ribs and pat dry.
    • Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs; you can do this by using a knife to scrape up the edge, grab it with a paper towel, and pull it back.
    • Sprinkle and rub the rib rub all over both sides of the ribs, making sure every inch is covered with flavor.
    • Slightly fold the ribs and place them in a semi-circle on top of the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
    • Place the lid on your pressure cooker, and make sure the vent is sealed.
    • Press ‘Pressure Cook’ and set for 25 minutes.
    • Once the Instant Pot is done cooking, allow it to naturally release before opening it up.
    • Pre-heat the broiler on your oven to ‘High’.
    • When the ribs are completely cooked, carefully remove them from the Instant Pot and place them on a cookie sheet.
    • Brush BBQ sauce all over the ribs, on both sides.
    • Place in the oven to broil for 3 to 5 minutes.
    • Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Sometimes I top mine off with my favorite mango peach salsa!
    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe

    More Instant Pot recipes you may enjoy:

    Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    Broiled BBQ Baby Back Ribs on a Cookie Sheet

    More recipes fellow meat lovers will love:

    Not Your Mama’s Easy Meatloaf

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Maple Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

    Pressure Cooker Salmon

    Knife Slicing Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs on a Cutting Board

    Kitchen tools you may need to make this baby back ribs recipe:

    Instant Pot – You’ll need an Instant Pot to make these ribs.

    Steamer Rack Trivet – You’ll need to set the ribs up on the trivet so they’re not soaking in the liquid the entire time they cook.

    Cutting Board and Knife – We use our cutting boards with just about every recipe. They’re good for prepping, and (after washing) cutting and serving.

    Basting and Pastry Brush – to brush on the BBQ sauce.

    Cookie Sheet – This will allow you to quickly broil the ribs after cooking.

    Fall off the bone delicious baby back ribs recipe

    Print the recipe for Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

    Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs are so easy to make. How to cook baby back ribs using a sweet chili dry rub that gives them a wonderful flavor. They’re fall off the bone delicious!

    • 1 cup water
    • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
    • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
    • 2 teaspoons onion powder
    • 2 teaspoons cumin
    • 2 teaspoons chili powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 set baby back ribs
    • 1 cup BBQ sauce
    1. Add the water and apple cider vinegar to your Instant Pot. 
    2. Place a trivet down inside your Instant Pot (we used our 8-quart Instant Pot for this recipe).
    3. Now mix together the ingredients for your dry rub: brown sugar, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and ground black pepper.
    4. Rinse the ribs and pat dry.
    5. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs; you can do this by using a knife to scrape up the edge, grab it with a paper towel, and pull it back.
    6. Sprinkle and rub the rib rub all over both sides of the ribs, making sure every inch is covered with flavor.
    7. Slightly fold the ribs and place them in a semi-circle on top of the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
    8. Place the lid on your pressure cooker, and make sure the vent is sealed.
    9. Press ‘Pressure Cook’ and set for 25 minutes. 
    10. Once the Instant Pot is done cooking, allow it to naturally release before opening it up.
    11. Pre-heat the broiler on your oven to ‘High’.
    12. When the ribs are completely cooked, carefully remove them from the Instant Pot and place them on a cookie sheet.
    13. Brush BBQ sauce all over the ribs, on both sides.
    14. Place in the oven to broil for 3 to 5 minutes. 
    15. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
    Instant Pot Recipes
    American
    baby back ribs, instant pot baby back ribs, instant pot ribs, sweet chili baby back ribs

    Pin this recipe to save all the deliciousness for later!

    Easy recipe for Sweet Chili Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs
    Ribs made in the Instant Pot with a sweet chili dry rub
    Broiled saucy baby back ribs from the Instant Pot
  • Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatballs

    Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatballs

    Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe, made with spaghetti squash instead of pasta, an easy homemade pasta sauce, and low carb meatballs packed with a hidden veggie. It’s a healthy meal my family can’t wait to eat for dinner.

    Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatballs Close Up

    Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti is one of my family’s favorite meals, even though it’s packed with squash instead of pasta and served with either a meaty sauce or low carb cauliflower meatballs.

    I’ve become quite accustomed to the flavor and texture of spaghetti squash, and I’d choose it over pasta any day.

    This particular spaghetti dinner pairs perfectly well with a batch of hot dog bun breadsticks too.

    Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti without sauce

    You’d think that making pasta with squash would be this long, drawn-out process. But it’s not. In fact, spaghetti squash is so easy to cook and use for so many different noodle dishes.

    Tips for how to make Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatballs

    Gather your ingredients first… You’ll need a spaghetti squash, water, a batch of Easy Homemade Pasta Sauce, and a batch of Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs.

    • Wash your spaghetti squash, and cut it in half.
    • Remove the seeds.
    • Place the spaghetti squash, face down, in your Instant Pot, along with a cup of water.
    • Put the lid on your Instant Pot. Hit ‘Pressure Cook’ and set for 6 to 8 minutes. (If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can bake the spaghetti squash instead.)
    • Meanwhile, prepare the sauce and the meatballs, according to recipe instructions.
    • Once the squash has fully cooked and your Instant Pot has naturally released, place the cooked spaghetti squash on a cutting board, and pull out all the squash. It’ll come out in long strands, sorta like spaghetti.
    • Place the spaghetti squash spaghetti in a large serving bowl.
    • Serve while warm, with sauce and meatballs on top, for a delicious family meal.

    It’s such a simple and easy recipe; I feel like everyone knows how to make spaghetti. But not everyone knows how to make spaghetti with squash instead of pasta.

    Serving of Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti with Meatballs

    Of course, it’s also really delicious, and it’s not a heavy meal. This kind of spaghetti fills you up but not so much that you have that too-full feeling in the pit of your stomach. And it’s a great way to add extra nutrients into a meal your kids will truly enjoy.

    More Pasta Dishes You May Enjoy:

    Kitchen tools you may need to make Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti:

    Cutting Board and Vegetable Cleaver – Perfect for prepping all your ingredients.
    Instant Pot – We use our Instant Pot several times a week, if not every day, and it makes cooking the spaghetti squash a breeze.
    Large Serving Bowl – for serving the spaghetti squash.
    Spaghetti Server – This makes plating spaghetti so much easier.

    Delicious Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatball Dish

    Want to see how to make the recipe? Watch our video!

    Print the recipe for Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatballs:

    Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatballs

    Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe, made with spaghetti squash instead of pasta, an easy homemade pasta sauce, and low carb meatballs packed with a hidden veggie. It’s a healthy meal my family can’t wait to eat for dinner.

    • 1 spaghetti squash
    • 1 cup water
    • 1 batch Easy Homemade Pasta Sauce
    • 1 batch Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs
    1. Wash your spaghetti squash, and cut it in half. 
    2. Remove the seeds.
    3. Place the spaghetti squash, face down, in your Instant Pot, along with a cup of water.
    4. Put the lid on your Instant Pot. Hit ‘Pressure Cook’ and set for 6 to 8 minutes. (If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can bake the spaghetti squash instead.)
    5. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce and the meatballs, according to recipe instructions.
    6. Once the squash has fully cooked and your Instant Pot has naturally released, place the cooked spaghetti squash on a cutting board, and pull out all the squash. It’ll come out in long strands, sorta like spaghetti.
    7. Place the spaghetti squash spaghetti in a large serving bowl.
    8. Serve while warm, with sauce and meatballs on top, for a delicious family meal.
    Pasta
    Italian
    spaghetti and meatballs, spaghetti squash spaghetti, spaghetti squash spaghetti and meatballs

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    Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs Easy Recipe
    Healthy Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
  • Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs, made with lean ground beef, cauliflower rice, parmesan cheese, herbs, and seasonings. Healthy and delicious recipe your family will love!

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs Raw Before Baking

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs are delicious in spaghetti and as party appetizers. They’re another one of my experiments, but this time an experiment gone totally right.

    Making dinner healthier has been a priority; bread crumbs in meatballs doesn’t necessarily add up to healthier, especially when you’re watching carb counts.

    However, cauliflower makes an excellent substitute for bread crumbs in Italian style meatballs, as well as in my low carb meatloaf recipe.

    Cauliflower makes a moist meatball, but not so moist that you even realize there’s cauliflower in there. It’s like having your vegetables and eating them too. Hidden veggies are fun, aren’t they?

    Serve them up with a homemade pasta sauce and spaghetti, and you’re all set for a delicious dinner with your family.

    Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti with Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Tips for How to Make Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs:

    Gather your ingredients… You’ll need lean ground beef, eggs, onion, steamed cauliflower, parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, fresh parsley, sea salt, and ground black pepper.

    • Mince the already steamed cauliflower into cauliflower rice (you can also use a food processor or blender to do this).
    • Add the cauliflower rice and parmesan cheese to the meat mixture.
    • Next, mix in all of your herbs and seasonings, including the oregano, basil, fresh minced parsley, sea salt, and ground black pepper.
    • At this point, you can keep stirring with a large fork; or get your hands into the mixture and mix it all together really well.
    • Take small amounts of the meat mixture and roll into meatballs, about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. You can also use a scoop for this.
    • Place all the meatballs on your cookie sheet.
    • Bake at 350° for about 35 minutes or until they’re entirely cooked through and up to temperature.
    • Serve with spaghetti, as an appetizer, etc.
    Spaghetti with Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Meatballs really aren’t that complicated to make. They require a bit of patience as you take the time to roll each of them up, but they’re totally worth it.

    The ingredients are simple. The process is simple. And you end up with delicious meatballs packed full of flavor.

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs on a Cookie Sheet

    Pair Italian Style Meatballs with:

    More Cauliflower Recipes You May Enjoy:

    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice

    Low Carb Chicken Casserole

    Chicken Fried Rice Spring Rolls

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs on Spaghetti Squash

    Kitchen Tools You May Need to Make Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs:

    Mixing Bowl – You’ll need a mixing bowl to mix up your meatballs.

    Cutting Board and Vegetable Cleaver – Perfect for prepping all your ingredients.

    Meatball Scoop – If you don’t want to roll them with your hands, this scoop may be just the thing.

    Cookie Sheet/Baking Pan or Meatball Baking Pan– You’ll definitely want to use a pan that has sides, to catch any juices.

    Spaghetti with Healthy and Delicious Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Want to see how to make the recipe? Watch our video!

    Print the Recipe for Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs, made with lean ground beef, cauliflower rice, parmesan cheese, herbs, and seasonings. Healthy and delicious recipe your family will love!

    • 2 pounds lean ground beef
    • 2 eggs
    • 1/2 small onion
    • 1 cup cauliflower rice
    • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
    • 1/2 teaspoon basil
    • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
    • 1 teaspoon sea salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    1. Pre-heat the oven to 350° and spray your cookie sheet/baking pan with cooking spray.
    2. In a mixing bowl, mix together the lean ground beef and eggs.
    3. Mince or chop the onion, and stir it into your beef mixture.
    4. Mince the already steamed cauliflower into cauliflower rice (you can also use a food processor or blender to do this).
    5. Add the cauliflower rice and parmesan cheese to the meat mixture.
    6. Next mix in all of your herbs and seasonings, including the oregano, basil, fresh minced parsley, sea salt, and ground black pepper. 
    7. At this point, you can keep stirring with a large fork; or get your hands into the mixture and mix it all together really well.
    8. Take small amounts of the meat mixture and roll into meatballs, about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. You can also use a scoop for this. 
    9. Place all the meatballs on your cookie sheet. 
    10. Bake at 350° for about 35 minutes or until they’re entirely cooked through and up to temperature.
    11. Serve with spaghetti, as an appetizer, etc.
    Appetizers
    Italian
    baked Italian cauliflower meatballs, baked meatballs, cauliflower meatballs, Italian cauliflower meatballs

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    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs Recipe
    Raw Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs
    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs with Spaghetti Squash Spaghetti
  • Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot taco chicken is homemade taco filling with spices and seasonings, fresh pepper and onion, and other flavorful ingredients. Easy to make recipe you can use for tacos, enchiladas, and more.

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken is one recipe you can easily make ahead and freeze for later. We love making tacos and enchiladas with it.

    Close up of Instant Pot Taco Chicken in a Bowl

    We’ve made our taco chicken with salsa and picante sauce in the past. A healthier lifestyle has made me re-think a lot of our old ways, though, especially the ingredients that we use. The fresher and simpler our ingredients, the better.

    The instructions for this recipe are pretty simple too. You’ll basically throw everything together in the Instant Pot, cook, and shred right there in the pot, making it a one pot dish.

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken Ready to Serve

    Tips for how to make Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    First, gather your ingredients… You’ll need water, chicken breasts, garlic, lemon juice, chili powder, salt, ground black pepper, bell peppers, onion, and petite diced tomatoes.

    1. Add water to the Instant Pot.
    2. Place chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
    3. Keep in mind as you add ingredients, there’s no need to stir.
    4. Mince the garlic, and add it in with the chicken.
    5. Add the lemon juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
    6. Wash and chop or mince the peppers and onion. Add them in with the chicken.
    7. Finally, add a can of petite diced tomatoes.
    8. There’s no need to stir or mix together ingredients. Just place the lid on the Instant Pot.
    9. Press the Pressure Cook button and set for 1 hour.
    10. Allow the pressure valve to naturally release.
    11. Once the chicken is done, open up the Instant Pot and shred the chicken with 2 forks. It’ll be so tender, it will easily shred right in the pot.
    12. Finally, give the chicken a good stirring, mixing it up with all the ingredients.
    13. Serve or enjoy in tacos, enchiladas, nachos, quesadillas, burritos, salad, soup, etc. Top with a little tomato basil salsa for an extra flavorful kick.
    Instant Pot Taco Chicken on a Tortilla with Green Onions

    The chicken’s so tender, it easily shreds. And pressure cooking lends to a delicious taco meat packed full of flavor. It’s so good!

    Whether you’re making tacos, enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas, or even a Southwest salad, this is the perfect recipe for taco meat.

    Bowl of Delicious Homemade Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    More recipes you can make with Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Learn how to quickly use your Instant Pot with our Instant Pot Quick Start Guide, filled with practical tips, Instant Pot recipes, accessory ideas, and more!

    Kitchen tools you may need to make Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot – Our Instant Pot has come in handy for so many things; it’s one of the most versatile kitchen appliances we’ve ever owned. And it makes the most tender, delicious, homemade taco chicken.

    Cutting Board – We use our cutting boards (notice plural) every single day.

    Vegetable Cleaver – for chopping and mincing.

    Wooden Spoon – for stirring up the chicken when it’s all shredded and ready to serve.

    Taco with Easy Homemade Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken

    Instant Pot Taco Chicken, homemade with spices and seasonings, fresh pepper and onion, and other flavorful ingredients. Easy to make recipe you can use for tacos, enchiladas, and more.

    • 1 1/2 cups water
    • 4 large chicken breasts
    • 2 cloves garlic
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 5 mini or 1 large bell pepper
    • 1/2 large onion
    • 1 can (14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes)
    1. Add water to the Instant Pot.
    2. Place chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
    3. Keep in mind as you add ingredients, there’s no need to stir.
    4. Mince the garlic, and add it in with the chicken.
    5. Add the lemon juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
    6. Wash and chop or mince the peppers and onion. Add them in with the chicken.
    7. Finally, add a can of petite diced tomatoes.
    8. There’s no need to stir or mix together ingredients. Just place the lid on the Instant Pot.
    9. Press the Pressure Cook button and set for 1 hour.
    10. Allow the pressure valve to naturally release.
    11. Once the chicken is done, open up the Instant Pot and shred the chicken with 2 forks. It’ll be so tender, it will easily shred right in the pot.
    12. Finally, give the chicken a good stirring, mixing it up with all the ingredients.
    13. Serve or enjoy in tacos, enchiladas, nachos, quesadillas, burritos, salad, soup, etc.
    Instant Pot Recipes
    Tex-Mex
    instant pot chicken, Instant Pot recipes, instant pot taco chicken, taco chicken

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    Instant Pot Taco Chicken Recipe
    Easy Recipe for Instant Pot Taco Chicken
  • Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice

    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice

    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice – A healthier version of your favorite takeout food. Cauliflower chicken fried rice is made with riced cauliflower, chicken, eggs, and veggies,. It’s a delicious dinner idea the whole family will love!

    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice and Chinese pork fried rice are my new favorite homemade version of takeout food. You can even use it to make chicken fried rice spring rolls. Yum!

    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice you can make at home. Skip the takeout and choose a healthier option. Easy recipe your family will love!

    I feel like Chicken Fried Rice gives the appearance of being a hard dish to master. But really, it’s not that difficult to make; in fact, it’s probably one of the quicker meals you can throw together.

    The key is to have all of your veggies and ingredients ready to go, because this recipe moves fast once you start cooking.

    While we love Chicken Fried Rice, we’ve had to come up with creative and healthy solutions for a lot of our favorite dishes. Cauliflower is a very worthy substitute for rice, especially when you mince it up really small.

    Forget takeout and make a healthier dinner at home with Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice. It’s one meal my guys can’t get enough of, and it’s so delicious!

    It works quite deliciously, in fact. And it really isn’t much more work than cooking up a pot of rice would be.

    If you’re looking for a lower carb option for your favorite takeout dish, Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice may be just the ticket. And just in case you’d rather have rice, we also have a regular chicken fried rice in a wok recipe you may enjoy.

    How to make a healthier version of your favorite takeout food at home. Even my boys love this simple Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice. It’s easy to make too, making it a win win dinner recipe in my book.

    Tips for how to make Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice

    Gather and prep all of your ingredients first and have them ready to go… You’ll need cauliflower, onion, garlic, chicken that’s already been cooked, frozen peas and carrots, eggs, sesame oil, and soy sauce.

    • Wash and finely mince the cauliflower.
    • Chop the onion and garlic.
    • Shred the already cooked chicken.
    • Heat the sesame oil in a large pan or wok on medium heat.
    • Stir the onion and garlic into the oil; sauté ’til they soften.
    • Add the peas and carrots, and continue to sauté, ’til they become tender.
    • Make a well in the center of the onion mixture, and add the eggs, scrambling them.
    • Stir everything together well, keeping the wok on medium heat.
    • Add the shredded chicken, as well as the cauliflower, to the wok, stirring well.
    • Add the soy sauce and continue to stir.
    • Place the lid on your wok and let the mixture steam or cook for 3 to 5 minutes.
    • When everything is heated thoroughly, it’s ready to serve.
    Looking for a low carb alternative to traditional chicken fried rice? Make Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice instead. It’s delicious, healthier, and such an easy recipe to make.

    Looking for more healthy dinner options using cauliflower?

    Baked Italian Cauliflower Meatballs

    Sausage and Cauliflower Casserole

    Low Carb Meatloaf Recipe

    Want to see how to make this recipe? Watch our cooking show!

    Kitchen tools you may need to make Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice

    Large Pan or Wok – Dan purchased this wok for us a couple years ago, and we’ve used it time and time again. It’s wonderful for cooking up Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice.

    Wok Spatula – This comes in really handy for stirring and scraping the wok as you toss the cauliflower rice while cooking.

    Cutting Board and Vegetable Cleaver – Perfect for prepping all your ingredients.

    Stuck in a dinner rut? Make an easy recipe for Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice, and put on a movie. Homemade takeout and a movie with your family!

    More Asian recipes you may enjoy:

    Asian Chicken Salad Wonton Cups

    Print the recipe for Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice

    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice

    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice is a healthier version of your favorite takeout food. Made with riced cauliflower, chicken, eggs, and veggies, it’s a delicious dinner idea the whole family will love!

    • 3 cups finely minced cauliflower
    • 1 large onion
    • 2 cloves garlic
    • 1/2 pound cooked and shredded chicken
    • 3 tablespoons sesame oil
    • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
    • 2 eggs (beaten)
    • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    1. Gather and prep all of your ingredients first and have them ready to go.
    2. Wash and finely mince the cauliflower.
    3. Chop the onion and garlic.
    4. Shred the already cooked chicken.
    5. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok on medium heat.
    6. Stir the onion and garlic into the oil; sauté ’til they soften.
    7. Add the peas and carrots, and continue to sauté, ’til they become tender.
    8. Make a well in the center of the onion mixture, and add the eggs, scrambling them.
    9. Stir everything together well, keeping the wok on medium heat.
    10. Add the shredded chicken, as well as the cauliflower, to the wok, stirring well.
    11. Add the soy sauce and continue to stir.
    12. Place the lid on your wok and let the mixture steam or cook for 3 to 5 minutes.
    13. When everything is heated thoroughly, it’s ready to serve. 
    Dinner Ideas
    Asian
    cauliflower chicken fried rice

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    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice is a healthier version of your favorite takeout food. Made with riced cauliflower, chicken, eggs, and veggies, it's a delicious dinner idea the whole family will love!
    Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice is a healthier, lower carb version of your favorite takeout food. Made with cauliflower, chicken, eggs, and veggies, it’s a delicious dinner idea your friends and family will love!
  • Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip

    Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip

    BBQ Chicken Dip, made with cream cheese, is an easy appetizer recipe. Pair it with tortilla chips for a delicious snack your friends and family will love!

    BBQ Chicken Dip is one of my family’s favorite snacks for holidays, movie night, Game Day, and more. It makes a great party appetizer too and disappears rather quickly. It pairs well alongside chili cheese fries.

    There’s just something about cream cheese, BBQ sauce, and Ranch dressing mixed together. The ingredients come together to form a layered dip that’s absolutely delicious and pairs well with crackers, tortilla chips, even raw veggies.

    BBQ Chicken Dip, made with cream cheese, is an easy appetizer recipe. Pair it with tortilla chips for a delicious snack your friends and family will love!

    While you can make this in a pie plate, cutting the ingredients by half (and we’ve done this plenty of times), you can also make it, as is, in a 13×9 inch pan… I prefer to layer the ingredients, as listed, in about a 10-inch iron skillet.

    It’s a little thicker this way, which is how I prefer this dip to be, with a good, solid layer of cream cheese on the bottom.

    If your chicken is already cooked, you can mix this dip up in about 10 minutes. Pop it in the oven for about 20 minutes, and you’re all set.

    Make a Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip to pair with tortilla chips, crackers, and raw vegetables. Delicious party appetizer and easy snack idea!

    If you’re looking for more appetizers, you may enjoy these easy appetizer recipes.

    Tips for how to make Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip

    First of all, gather your ingredients… You’ll need about a pound of cooked chicken. We sometimes use leftovers from an Instant Pot whole chicken. Then you’ll need cream cheese, BBQ sauce, Ranch dressing, and Mozzarella cheese.

    • In a separate mixing bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with the shredded chicken.
    • Spread the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cream cheese.
    • Pour the Ranch dressing on top of the BBQ chicken mixture.
    • Sprinkle the entire skillet with grated Mozzarella cheese.
    • Bake for about 20 minutes at 350°F, or until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
    • Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, raw vegetables, or whatever snack food you prefer.
    How to make an easy BBQ Chicken Dip friends and family will love. There’s just something delicious about cream cheese, BBQ sauce, and Ranch dressing mixed together that makes for a yummy dip!

    Want to see how to make this dip? Watch our video!

    Looking for more delicious dips and sauce recipes?

    I’m definitely adding this recipe to my list of favorite Christmas Recipes.

    Easy appetizer and snack idea, Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip. Made with cream cheese, BBQ sauce, and Ranch dressing, it’s delicious with tortilla chips and raw vegetables.

    Kitchen tools you may need to make BBQ Chicken Dip

    Shredding Forks – You can use something like this or just regular table forks.

    Iron Skillet – I love making this dip in an iron skillet, which makes for a thicker dip. You could also use a 13×9 inch baking dish and spread the mixture out more, or you can use a deep dish pie plate.

    Mixing Bowl – I love my mixing bowl with a handle for mixing up the chicken with the BBQ sauce.

    Spatula – I use a spatula with just about every recipe I make.

    Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip is so easy to make. Only 5 ingredients and about 10 minutes prep time. Makes a delicious appetizer and snack idea for Game Day, holiday parties, and more!

    Print the recipe for Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip

    Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip

    BBQ Chicken Dip, made with cream cheese, is an easy appetizer recipe. Pair it with tortilla chips for a delicious snack your friends and family will love!

    • 2 8- ounce packages cream cheese (softened)
    • 1 pound chicken (cooked & shredded)
    • 1 cup BBQ sauce
    • 2/3 cup Ranch dressing
    • 8 ounces grated mozzarella
    1. Pre-heat the oven to 350°F. 
    2. Shred the cooked chicken with forks.
    3. Spread the cream cheese on the bottom of an iron skillet (or deep dish pie plate, etc.).
    4. In a separate mixing bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with the shredded chicken.
    5. Spread the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cream cheese.
    6. Pour the Ranch dressing on top of the BBQ chicken mixture.
    7. Sprinkle the entire skillet with grated Mozzarella cheese.
    8. Bake for about 20 minutes at 350°F, or until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
    9. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, raw vegetables, or whatever snack food you prefer. 
    Appetizers
    American
    BBQ chicken dip, chicken dip, cream cheese chicken dip

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    BBQ Chicken Dip, made with cream cheese, is an easy appetizer recipe. Pair it with tortilla chips for a delicious snack your friends and family will love!
    Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip, made with 5 simple ingredients, including cream cheese. Easy appetizer recipe. Makes a delicious Game Day snack and perfect party food.
  • 39 Colorful Salads You Can Eat for Dinner

    39 Colorful Salads You Can Eat for Dinner

    Colorful Salads You Can Eat for Dinner with loads of vegetables, some with meat, and a few meatless ideas! Loads of ideas for delicious weeknight meals!

    Colorful Salads can make delicious weeknight meals, especially if they’re packed with vegetables and offer a little protein too. You can pair a good salad deliciously well with a bowl of Instant Pot potato soup, salmon patties, a low carb meatloaf, or fish fillets.

    39 Colorful Salads You Can Eat for Dinner

    I find myself sometimes just wanting a lighter meal, especially in the evenings after a really long day. And a good salad, like chicken egg salad, is just the thing when a heavier dinner feels like too much.

    Even our kids love salad, and I feel like we’re pretty lucky that they do. Personally, I love a good Cobb Salad with chicken and a little bit of BBQ sauce with Ranch dressing drizzled on for extra flavor.

    Below you’ll find 39 colorful salad ideas you can implement into your weekly menu plan. Whether you’re packing a lunch or cooking up dinner, maybe think about adding a hearty salad to your meal plan.

    Colorful Salads without Meat

    Meatless ideas for colorful salads
    Meatless Colorful Salads
    Colorful Salads with a meatless ingredient list
    Colorful Salads dinner ideas
    Colorful Salads ideas without meat
    Colorful Salads without any meat

    Colorful Salads with Meat

    Colorful Salads with meat
    Colorful Salads loaded with meat
    Meat filled Colorful Salads
    Colorful Salads with meat in them
    Colorful Salads with meat as an ingredient
    colorful salads featuring meat

    Hopefully, this inspires some healthy dinners in your very near future! With so many delicious ideas, I can’t wait to plan my next menu.

    Looking for more delicious salad recipes?

    More colorful salads you can eat for dinner ideas

    Kitchen Tools to help you make salad for dinner…

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    Pin this post to save all of these delicious Colorful Salads ideas for later!

    Colorful Salads You Can Eat for Dinner with loads of vegetables, some with meat, and a few meatless ideas! Loads of ideas for delicious weeknight meals!
  • Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup (Copycat)

    Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup (Copycat)

    Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup with chicken, spinach, and gnocchi. Easy copycat for the creamy restaurant soup, it makes a delicious lunch or dinner!

    Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is hands down my favorite creamy soup. You can ask my family; pretty much every time we visit the restaurant, my “usual” has been Chicken and Gnocchi Soup, breadsticks, and salad.

    Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup is my favorite soup, and now I can make it myself at home. Hearty soup with chicken, spinach, and gnocchi. Delicious lunch or dinner idea!

    It’s not a difficult soup to make at home, though. You just need a few key ingredients, and I like to add a little sage to give it even more flavor.

    I think I’ve got a pretty good handle on making my own homemade version of Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Now if I could only master a recipe for Olive Garden’s breadsticks (because they are absolutely perfect for dipping in my soup).

    How to make a copycat recipe of Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup. This homemade version of my favorite soup is delicious. It’s one dinner that has the whole family asking for seconds.

    Whether you want to warm up on a cold winter night or simply want a lunch to get excited about, this copycat recipe is for you. Let’s cook up a pot of delicious soup, shall we? 

    Tips for how to make Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

    • Gather your ingredients. You’ll need salted butter, a medium sized onion, celery, garlic, carrots, cooked chicken breast/s, chicken broth, heavy whipping cream, sage, gnocchi, salt, pepper, and fresh spinach.
    • Wash any fresh veggies you’ll be using.
    • Mince the onion, celery, and garlic.
    • Melt a tablespoon of salted butter in a Dutch oven.
    • Sauté the onion, celery, and garlic in the butter for about 5 minutes or until they begin to soften.
    • Shred the carrots and the cooked chicken breast/s (if you like more liquid in your soup, use only 1 chicken breast; if you prefer a chunkier soup with less liquid, use 2).
    • Add the carrots, chicken, and chicken broth to the Dutch oven, mixing well.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, and let it simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes.
    • Add the heavy whipping cream and sage to your soup.
    • Bring to a boil again, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
    • Add the gnocchi, salt, and pepper to the soup mixture.
    • Again, bring the soup to a boil, and simmer for 5 more minutes.
    • Add the spinach leaves to the soup, and simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes.
    • Serve while warm with breadsticks, baguettes, or crackers. Enjoy!
    Cook up a delicious pot of Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup for lunch or dinner. Copycat soup recipe made with chicken, spinach, and gnocchi.

    Other chicken soups you may enjoy:

    Tools you may need to make Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

    Cutting Board and Vegetable Cleaver – I prefer an old school cutting board and knife for chopping. You’ll use these time and again to chop vegetables for recipes.
    6 Quart Dutch Oven – My Dutch Oven is sort of like my spatulas. I wouldn’t want to be without it.
    Wooden Spoon – I’ve been eyeing this particular wooden spoon for awhile now… But again, my wooden spoons are like my spatulas; couldn’t cook without them!
    Salad Shooter (or Vegetable Shredder) – Perfect for shredding carrots and other veggies.

    Warm up with a cozy bowl of Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup, a hearty soup filled with chicken, gnocchi, carrots, and spinach. Deliciously creamy dinner idea!

    Wanna see how to make the soup? Watch our video!

    Chicken and Gnocchi Soup

    Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup with chicken, spinach, and gnocchi. Easy copycat for the creamy restaurant soup, it makes a delicious lunch or dinner!

    • 1 tablespoon salted butter
    • 1 medium yellow onion (minced)
    • 2 stalks celery (minced)
    • 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
    • 2 medium carrots (shredded)
    • 2 chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
    • 4 cups chicken broth
    • 3 cups heavy whipping cream
    • 1 teaspoon ground sage
    • 16 ounces gnocchi
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves

    1. In a Dutch oven pan over medium heat, melt the butter.

    2. Sauté the onion, celery, and garlic in the butter for about 5 minutes, or 'til they begin to soften.

    3. Add the carrots, chicken, and chicken broth to the Dutch oven, stirring everything together.

    4. Bring the mixture to a boil, and let it simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes.

    5. Add the heavy whipping cream and ground sage to the soup. 

    6. Bring to a boil again; then simmer over low heat for another 5 minutes.

    7. Add the gnocchi, salt, and pepper to the soup mixture.

    8. Again, bring the soup to a boil; then simmer over low heat for 5 more minutes.

    9. Add the spinach leaves to the soup, and simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes.

    10. Serve while warm with breadsticks, baguettes, or crackers.

     

    Soups & Stews
    American
    chicken and gnocchi soup, Olive Garden soup

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    Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup with chicken, spinach, and gnocchi. Easy copycat of the creamy restaurant soup, it makes a delicious lunch or dinner!
    How to make Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup with spinach and carrots. Easy copycat recipe, it makes a delicious lunch or dinner idea!