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3 Bean Salad Recipe – Mexican Side Dish

3 Bean Salad Recipe – Mexican Side Dish

3 Bean Salad Recipe – Mexican Side Dish: An easy, no-cook, side dish recipe that can be made for a weeknight dinner, or for a potluck dinner at an event!

Salad recipes are my favorite. They’re super easy to make, can be made ahead of time (for the most part) and are usually loved and wanted by all!

3 bean salad recipe - cilantro lime, black beans, dark red kidney beans, pinto

3 Bean Salad Recipe

I’m not going to lie. When I’m at a potluck dinner, I typically reach right over the bean salads and head right for the potato dishes.

But now that I’ve made my own 3 bean salad recipe and have realized just how delicious they can be, I’ll be giving them a fair chance at the next church picnic.

Mexican Style Bean Salad

If you’ve made my guacamole recipe,

How to make guacamole - easy recipe with simple ingredients

then you know my love for cilantro and all things that remind me of a trip to Mexico!

Mexico Vacation, El Dorado Royale Resort Casitas Review https://fantabulosity.com

But in any dish, combine cilantro AND red onion and you’re speaking my love language.

The fresh cilantro, avocado lime dressing (store-bought, but you can make your own too) and the flavors of the beans, make this side salad dish a no-brainer for the next time you need something quick and tasty!

How to Make 3 Bean Salad

To start, open your cans of beans, drain, add to a colander, and rinse.

Next, open and drain your corn, then add to the bowl of beans. (Or make this Mexican street corn to kick things up a notch!)

3 bean salad recipe - beans to use

If you haven’t diced your peppers and red onion yet, you’ll want to go ahead and do that now, and then add to the beans/corn.

If you don’t have a chopper like this one, to quickly chop peppers and onions… you gotta give it a try. It’s a life changer when it comes to chopping in the kitchen.

3 Bean Salad Recipe - Cilantro Lime

3 Bean Salad Dressing

The next part is quite possibly my favorite step because it’s so easy! I found a Sweet Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette Dressing from Sam’s Choice, at Walmart when I was ordering online with my grocery pickup app, planning to make this salad recipe.

Now you know me, and how I prefer fabulously fast dishes, rather than making complete, from scratch meals… so buying a dressing instead of having to make it myself, was a no-brainer.

HOWEVER, if you have trouble finding this dressing at the store, have fun with it and look to see if you can find something similar, like a lime-dressing.

Or, you CAN make your own dressing too! I have put the ingredients for a 3 bean salad dressing recipe in the recipe card below too, that uses everyday ingredients. So again, don’t stress about finding this particular dressing.

Sweet Cilantro Lime Dressing - sams choice from walmart
Easy dressing idea for 3 bean salad recipe

Once you’ve poured the desired amount of dressing on to your bean salad, toss until mixed, add a dash of salt, and top with fresh cilantro if you have some on hand!

There’s just nothing better than fresh cilantro if you ask me. But I’m not one of those that think that it tastes like soap!

It’s such a mystery to me, with how that works and we can all taste different things like that. (Sorry, squirrel moment.)

3 bean salad recipe - quick and easy and a great side dish idea

Isn’t that a gorgeous 3-bean salad? I just love the vibrant colors that it has, the texture of the crunch of the peppers and onions, and the ease of the dressing.

Let us know in the comments below if you’re trying 3 bean salad for the first time, or if you’ve been a long time fan of it!

Recipe

3 bean salad recipe - cilantro lime, black beans, dark red kidney beans, pinto
Print Pin
4.80 from 29 votes

3 Bean Salad Recipe – Mexican Style

3 Bean Salad Recipe – Mexican Style: An easy, no-cook, side dish recipe that can be made for a weeknight dinner, or for a potluck dinner at an event!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 106kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 15.5 oz can black beans rinsed
  • 1 15.5 oz can pinto beans rinsed
  • 1 15.5 oz can dark red kidney beans rinsed
  • 1 15.5 oz can corn drained
  • .5 red bell pepper diced
  • .5 orange bell pepper diced
  • .5 yellow bell pepper diced
  • .5 green bell pepper diced
  • .25 red onion diced
  • .5 cup Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette Dressing
  • salt to taste
  • fresh cilantro (if desired) chopped

Instructions

  • Drain and rinse all beans and pour into medium size bowl
  • Drain corn and add to beans
  • Add in peppers, onions and dressing
  • If desired, sprinkle on fresh cilantro and salt to taste

Notes

If you’re unable to find the dressing that I used, you can make a 3 bean salad dressing with the following:
¼ c red wine vinegar, ¼ c olive oil, 2 T lime juice, 1 T lemon juice, 1 T salt, 1 clove crushed garlic/garlic powder, and a pinch of sugar for a sweet spin!
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (about 1 cup) | Calories: 106kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 86mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 675IU | Vitamin C: 51.8mg | Iron: 0.2mg

Hosting a Fiesta?

This is an OLD Fiesta Housewarming party that I helped style for a friend, years… I mean YEARS ago, but you may still find some fun ideas for your fiesta!

Fiesta Housewarming Party Ideas Margaritas in Mason Jars

Don’t Forget to Pin This Recipe!!!

You know how life gets. We see something online and say to ourselves,

“Man that looks good. I should make that sometime.”

Then we close out of the browser and never think about it again. Do yourself a favor and PIN this recipe to your Pinterest board, so the next time you’re looking for a pot luck side dish idea, you’ll have this one to turn to!

Spring Mix Apple Raspberry Salad Recipe

Spring Mix Apple Raspberry Salad Recipe – Serve as a spring dinner idea, take to a potluck or serve at a party. A few simple ingredients can add so much flavor to a salad.

Whether you're looking for a side salad to incorporate apples with like this one, or if you're looking for an apple salad dessert… then you're in luck!

Scroll down to get this apple salad recipe, and then visit the 25 apple salad recipes that I gathered for you that includes everything from more lettuce salads with apples, to dessert style apple salad recipes!

Then if you’re on a salad kick, you’ll want to head over to get ALL of the best salad recipes that we have here on the blog!

Apple Salad Recipe - Easy Side Dish Idea

Spring Mix Apple Raspberry Salad

Growing up, I was the “oddball” kiddo who loved when we went out to eat because that usually meant that I got to try a new salad from somewhere.

Nothing has changed really, because I absolutely love trying new flavors when it comes to salads at restaurants, and even creating new salad recipes at home.

More Apple Salad Recipes?

In case you love all things apples and salads, then you have to take a look at 25 Apple Salad Recipes.

Apple Salad Recipes You'll Want to Make

Sweet + Crunchy

One of my favorite ways to make a salad is to add something sweet and something crunchy! I mean, growing up, I was a head-lettuce, ranch dressing and bacon bit kind of gal. But as I’ve gotten older, I love having salads with a little twist from the norm and add things like fruit, nuts and sweet dressings.

This spring mix apple raspberry salad is the perfect example of a side salad that is the total opposite of a basic garden salad.

You’re going to absolutely love making this for dinner or taking it along with you to a potluck or dinner party because it’s GORGEOUS, yet takes very little time to put together.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind it’s not really the amount of ingredients that “make” this salad, but rather the flavors combined that do. So feel free to adjust accordingly when it comes to the number of ingredients.

Bulk or Individual Salad Servings

You can make either type of servings with this salad. Make it in a large bowl for your family/guests to serve themselves, or go ahead and build individual servings in salad plates.

No matter how you make it, you’ll still layer the ingredients and mix it all in the end anyway!

For the sake of this post, I decided to stick with the bulk serving, but again, feel free to mix it up. (No pun intended. Ok, well, maybe.)

Spring Mix

As with most of my salads, feel free to use whatever lettuce tickles your fancy, but for this one, I’d recommend spring mix or even romaine lettuce like I use in my best side salad recipe.

Mixed Greens for an apple salad - Perfect for fall apples

Salad Ingredients

Full recipe card also below for printing and easy viewing.

For 4 servings, I use a 5 oz. bag of spring mix and place it in a serving bowl.

I also buy the bag of dried cranberries and candied pecans to keep things super easy.

cranberries and candied almonds

Thin apple slices are my preference, but if you’re super short on time, feel free to use or even buy the packaged pre-sliced apples in the produce section.

Grab a container of blue cheese crumbles (and plan on using the leftovers to make these Blue Cheese Burgers!

Next, layer on all of the other toppings (except dressing at the moment), and drool over the cooked bacon (just me?) and get ready for delicious flavor combos.

Bacon on an apple salad - easy side dish
Apple Salad in bulk for dinner - side dish idea

Right before serving, the salad can be topped with the raspberry vinaigrette dressing and toss, or you can make individual servings and then let each person choose their dressing or top with their desired amount.

Individual Servings of an apple salad

I just used the Great Value raspberry vinaigrette dressing from Walmart, but feel free to mix it up! I’m not going to lie, I think blue cheese dressing may be pretty tasty on this one.

Raspberry Vinegerette Dressing on an apple salad
Raspberry Vinaigrette on a salad with apples

Recipe

Apple Raspberry Salad Recipe - Easy Side Dish Idea
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Apple Raspberry Salad Recipe

Spring Mix Apple Raspberry Salad Recipe – Serve with dinner, take to a potluck or serve at a party! A few ingredients can add pizzazz to a side salad.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 310kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 5 oz. spring mix lettuce
  • 3.5 oz. bag of dried cranberries & candied pecans
  • ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles
  • 1 apple sliced thin
  • 4 slices cooked, chopped bacon
  • ½ cup raspberry vinaigrette dressing or desired amount of preferred dressing

Instructions

  • For bulk salad assembly, layer spring mix in serving bowl, and top with cranberries, pecans, blue cheese crumbles, apple slices, and cooked-chopped bacon.
    Apple Salad in bulk for dinner - side dish idea
  • Right before serving, toss with Vinaigrette dressing, or desired dressing.
  • Or, assemble salads into individual servings and divide the ½ cup of dressing to each salad accordingly. 
  • Store any leftover, undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 1salad (¼ recipe) | Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 630mg | Potassium: 174mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 19g | Vitamin A: 490IU | Vitamin C: 10.3mg | Calcium: 69mg | Iron: 0.7mg

Love Salads?

Me too. Here are my favorite salad recipes here on the blog…

Best Side Salad Recipe

The Best Side Salad Recipe

Cold Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

Pasta Salad Recipe - These easy Italian pasta salad recipe is SO good!

Cauliflower Salad Recipe

Cauliflower Potato Salad Recipe - An easy low carb recipe with vegetables!

Cornbread Salad Recipe without Beans

This cornbread salad recipe is made without beans and has a BBQ Ranch flavor that is hard to beat! It’s an easy side dish recipe that’s perfect for a barbecue, dinner time with the family, or a potluck dinner!

We’ve been on a salad recipes kick lately but my goodness they’re good, aren’t they? This red skin potato salad is another one of our favorites, that’s a go-to for summertime, too.

Cornbread Salad Recipe

Why you’ll love this recipe

Alright, I get it. Cornbread salad? But for real, the first time I tried this, it was like the heavens parted, the birds were signing and I felt like twirling around like Snow White.

Ok maybe that’s a little much, but just know that I mean business when I say how happy I am that I discovered another side dish I could make for dinner or to take to a potluck.

Can you agree that it’s super tough to come up with a recipe OTHER than a side salad, green bean casserole, corn casserole, baked beans, and scalloped potatoes when someone says

If you could just bring a side dish, that would be great.

I used to panic at the thought of “Crap. What can I make and take with me that a gagillion other’s won’t be bringing?”

Well, now I know! Boom! And you can too… you’ll want to make this. Not only does it have gorgeous, vibrant colors, but the flavor combination is DYNAMITE!

It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients and has beautiful colors!

And now… I love this as much as I love panzanella, which is another side dish I LOVE seeing at potlucks that’s better than the side dishes you typically see!!

What kind of cornbread do I use?

For this recipe, I just grabbed a box of the Zatarain’s Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread mix and made it according to the package directions.

Heads Up: If you’re using the boxed mix that I used, make sure you have cheddar cheese, butter, milk and egg to make it! Or, you can sometimes find jalapeno cheddar cornbread already made at your local grocery store!

Can I make it without beans?

Yes! Actually, I prefer it without beans and love the texture that the other ingredients in this recipe provide.

Ingredients

It takes very little to make this easy salad recipe but it packs a BIG punch of flavor!

You’ll need:

  • prepared jalapeno cheddar cornbread (I used Zatarain’s Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Mix in the box – but feel free to Jiffy or what you have on hand!)
  • cooked bacon
  • green pepper
  • cherry tomatoes
  • green onions
  • shredded cheddar cheese
  • bbq ranch dressing

How to Make Cornbread Salad

Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread for Cornbread Salad

In a large bowl, break up the cornbread and use a fork to break it all down into a crumble.

Break up the cornbread for the salad

Next, toss in the remaining ingredients (I save the dressing for last) and gently mix it all together until all of the dressing is evenly distributed.

Chop up the ingredients for the cornbread salad
Mix together veggies with the cornbread
sprinkle cheese on to cornbread salad
Cornbread Salad ingredients: How to make cornbread salad
Combine ingredients in bowl for cornbread salad
Add bbq ranch dressing to the cornbread salad
Cornbread Salad Recipe

Would you look at that? Aren’t the colors OUTSTANDING together!?

I absolutely love carrying this dish into a potluck dinner or serving it as a side dish at dinnertime.

How do you make cornbread salad

I’m not going to lie… I will just eat THIS for a meal sometimes. I don’t need anything else to satisfy my tastebuds!

Side dish: cornbread salad

Tips for Making the Best Cornbread Salad:

  • The jalapeno cheddar cornbread is by far the best for this recipe but feel free to use Jiffy or whatever you may have on hand. If you want a jalapeno cheddar cornbread recipe, I have one included in my Fabulously Fast Dinners e-cookbook that you can get and save RIGHT NOW!
  • If you can’t find the bbq ranch dressing at the store, simply mix in a little of your favorite bbq sauce, in with your favorite ranch dressing, according to your taste!
  • I like to wait to mix everything together right before serving for the best results.
  • If you need more side dish recipes, then you’ll love these:
    – cauliflower “potato” salad
    – bacon ranch pasta salad
    – carrot salad

Recipe

Cornbread Salad Recipe
Print Pin
4.85 from 13 votes

Cornbread Salad Recipe

This cornbread salad recipe is made without beans and has a BBQ Ranch flavor that is hard to beat! It's an easy side dish recipe that's perfect for a barbecue, dinner time with the family or a potluck dinner!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 116kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 box prepared jalapeno cheddar cornbread I used Zatarain’s Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Mix
  • 4 slices cooked bacon chopped
  • ½ green pepper chopped
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes sliced
  • 4 green onions chopped
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup bbq ranch dressing

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, break up the cornbread and use a fork to break it all down into a crumble.
  • Next, toss in the remaining ingredients (I save the dressing for last), and gently mix it all together until all of the dressing is evenly distributed.

Notes

If you can’t find the bbq ranch dressing at the store, simply mix in a little of your favorite bbq sauce, in with your favorite ranch dressing, according to your taste!
  • I like to wait to mix everything together right before serving for the best results.
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (about ½ cup) | Calories: 116kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 17mg | Sodium: 201mg | Potassium: 83mg | Vitamin A: 205IU | Vitamin C: 9.5mg | Calcium: 58mg | Iron: 0.3mg

Cheeseburger Macaroni in the Instant Pot

Cheeseburger Macaroni in the Instant Pot: A homemade “hamburger helper” dinner ideas that can be quick for a family meal using items that you may even have on hand!

Hey there quick meal idea lovers. I’m right there with you, hence the reason I finally took the plunge and bought the Instant Pot. Oh yes, this version of hamburger mac and cheese on the stovetop, can be made in a pressure cooker too!

Cheeseburger Macaroni in the Instant Pot

After staring at my pantry the other day, I decided I wanted to experiment a little bit with the Instant Pot, and now you’re looking at the result. After we realized how quick and easy it was, I knew I had to share it with you.

I wasn’t sure if I’d ever like another “cheeseburger” dinner as much as we love the baked cheeseburgers but this dish is an amazing easy dinner idea when the comfort food craving calls! (We also think you’re going to love this cheeseburger subs recipe too, if you’re a cheeseburger fan.)

Cheeseburger Macaroni in the Instant Pot

Not only is there a ton of flexibility that you can have with this recipe, but the ease of throwing it all together was also my FAVORITE part.

Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe in the Instant Pot

Answering Your Cheeseburger Macaroni Questions:

Can I use Velveeta instead of canned cheddar cheese soup?

I haven’t tried this, but I don’t see why you couldn’t substitute it. I’d just make sure to use about 10 oz. of Velveeta (cut up into cubes, like we did in this Rotel Dip, and maybe add a little bit of milk — maybe ¼ cup??? – guessing here) since the canned cheese is a little more liquified than the block cheese. If you try this, let us know!

How do you defrost ground beef in the Instant Pot?

Want to use frozen beef? You totally can, because I do too! I typically either forget to thaw it out, or I decide at the last minute to make something with it. I made this using frozen ground beef, although provided directions for thawed beef too!
But when I’m totally on my game and remember to thaw ground beef out naturally, you definitely find me making The BEST Cheeseburger recipe, where I use browned butter and basic ingredients/methods to make them the juiciest burgers I’ve ever had! So if you were on your game today, or just snagged some ground beef from the grocery store, you may want to make this cheeseburger recipe too!

Instant Pot Hamburger Helper

Now, I LOVE a good boxed, Hamburger Helper dinner from the grocery store. But what I REALLY love about this recipe is that it’s similar, super easy… (no, everything doesn’t come in a box) but the flavor of this dish is way more powerful!

Other Instant Pot Recipes You’ll Love:

Easy Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe…

When sharing this recipe with you, I’m keeping in mind that a lot of you may desire a different level of seasonings and spices and I want to keep it as easy as possible.

So expect this to be a very basic recipe that could use extra spices and flavors… or cheese. You can NEVER go wrong with adding more cheese!

However, here are a few things I’d suggest doing additionally to really add flavor to it so it doesn’t come out bland.

Items to Add to Cheeseburger Macaroni

  • Garlic Pepper (It’s my absolute favorite, to sprinkle on to the top of each serving, but not for my kids.)
  • Extra shredded cheese on top of each serving is a MUST in my book.
  • Add milk after cooking if you prefer it more creamy.
  • Salt and Pepper as desired, but remember… you can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
  • Sour Cream (Reader Suggested)
  • Hot Sauce – I haven’t tried this yet, but I could definitely go for this on my serving.
  • Can of diced tomatoes and green chilies! (Reader Suggested)
  • Bacon or bacon bits for super easy additions! (Reader Suggested)

Left Over Cheeseburger Macaroni?

If serving this leftover, you may want to add a little milk to it before reheating, just to recreate a creamy texture.

Cheeseburger macaroni recipe in the instant pot

I so hope you love this recipe. We ate on this for a couple of days and I’m already looking forward to making it again because it was so quick. It one of our favorite ground beef recipes that we turn to a lot.

This recipe is not only a great family dinner idea to meal plan with, (get your meal planning printable in the home management binder) but it serves as the perfect dish to deliver to someone in a meal care package to eat on for a few days!
Maybe just send along a little extra milk too, so they can add a bit to enhance the creaminess when reheated!

If you’re into quick and easy recipes, then you’ll LOVE to blog the recipe archives here on the blog, OR make dinnertime insanely easy, and grab my “Fabulously Fast Dinners” cookbook where I’ve done all of the dinner time planning for you!

More Comfort Food Recipes

If you love comfort food, then you’re in the RIGHT place. Here we believe that food is love. So when you either want to show yourself some love, or make something comforting for someone you love, then browse our favorite easy-to-make recipes!

But I’ve picked out some of our favorite comfort dishes here…

This Cheeseburger Casserole has all the flavors of a cheeseburger but in a dish that’s perfect for a family weeknight meal, or even a care package!

If you have extra elbow macaroni noodles, you can use them in this old-fashioned macaroni and tomatoes recipe!

30-Minute Taco Pasta Recipe – This 30-minute Taco Pasta Recipe makes the perfect weeknight dinner! If you are a busy mom looking for a simple, quick, and healthy recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes, this taco pasta recipe is for you.

Chili Mac Recipe – In less than 30 minutes, and a few simple ingredients, this chili mac using ground beef, beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, elbow macaroni, and cheese, will soon become a new favorite spin on a chili recipe! But similar to chili mac, this slow cooker goulash recipe is always a great choice!

For even more cozy meal ideas, check out this collection of classic old-fashioned dinner recipes.

Recipe

Cheeseburger Macaroni in the Instant Pot
Print Pin
4.50 from 113 votes

Cheeseburger Macaroni in the Instant Pot

Cheeseburger Macaroni in the Instant Pot: A "hamburger helper" style dinner idea that can be quick for a family meal using items that you have or can keep on hand!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 663kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef drain after cooking if using a fatty beef
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 10.5 oz can of cheddar cheese soup
  • 3 cups broth chicken or vegetable (Recently updated from 2.5 cups to 3)
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and pepper as desired
  • garlic pepper seasoning optional

Instructions

  • If ground beef is frozen, pour 1 cup water into the Instant Pot, put on the lid, make sure the valve is on “seal”, and select 25 minutes on “high” manual mode. Ground beef should be fully cooked before moving forward.
  • If starting with thawed ground beef, turn the “saute” setting on and cook the ground beef, garlic powder, and onion powder until beef is no longer pink.
  • Next add in broth, elbow macaroni, can of cheddar cheese soup and salt/pepper if desired.
  • Lock lid and close the valve to “seal” and cook for 4 minutes on manual “high” setting. The pressure cooker will take about 5 minutes to seal, 4 minutes to cook and then quick release the valve to let the pressure out.
  • Add in 2 cups of shredded cheddar and stir until melted.
  • Divide and sprinkle on remaining shredded cheddar on to each serving, for extra cheesy goodness! 
  • Tip: Get creative by sprinkling on seasonings like garlic pepper seasoning, hot sauce, and anything else that you love, to add more flavor!

Notes

This recipe is a basic cheeseburger macaroni recipe. You may want to add seasonings and other flavors to kick it up a notch with flavor. I wanted to keep it very basic for kids! If in doubt, add more cheese! You can never go wrong with more cheese! 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (about 1-½ cups) | Calories: 663kcal | Carbohydrates: 64g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 108mg | Sodium: 1136mg | Potassium: 729mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1015IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 449mg | Iron: 3.3mg

Did You Make This?
Snap a pic and hashtag it #Fantabulosity - I love to see your creations on Instagram and Facebook.

Waffle Breakfast Sandwiches

Waffle Breakfast Sandwiches: Crispy bacon, melty cheese, fluffy scrambled eggs drizzled with syrup, piled on warm crispy waffles, makes for a new delicious and easy breakfast idea!

Waffle breakfast sandwich on plate.

Breakfast sandwiches can be easy to make, using simple ingredients and are great for meal planning and freezing for a quick breakfast.

This bacon egg and cheese sandwich is similar, using brioche buns instead of waffles. Or, for the same breakfast sandwich vibe, this fried bologna and egg sandwich or this pineapple and ham breakfast sandwich, are both fun twists to a traditional breakfast sandwich.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Recipe Highlights

  • A Fun Twist: Breakfast sandwiches can be a great, easy breakfast idea but the same sandwich can get old. Inspired by my waffle burger, instead of using regular bread, using toasty waffles adds a different texture and flavor to this common breakfast sandwich.
  • Easy to Make: A quick prep time and easy assembly, make this recipe a great choice for a grab-and-go option for even to make for a large crowd if hosting.
  • Presentation: If hosting a brunch, these breakfast sandwiches look amazing and guests love how different they are, since waffles are serving as the “bun” in this sandwich. Tip: Wrap the bottom half of the sandwiches in parchment paper to help hold them together to make them easier to hold, and to give them a classy look. Or, go with the waffle charcuterie idea, and allow guests to do a build-your-own breakfast sandwich.

Ingredients

The ingredients are simple for this recipe but I’ve provided some notes below about some of the key ingredients.

Labeled ingredients for waffle breakfast sandwiches.

How to Make Waffle Breakfast Sandwiches

Eggs, pepper and milk in a mixing bowl.
Step 1: Begin by whipping eggs, milk and spices for scrambled eggs.
Scrambled eggs made, with slices of American cheese on top.
Step 2: Cook eggs in skillet and top with slices of cheese.
Cooked bacon slices on top of waffles.
Step 3: Layer cooked bacon on to cooked waffles.
Eggs with melted cheese on top of bacon slices.
Step 4: Top bacon with scrambled eggs with cheese.
Waffles on top of eggs, cheese and bacon.

Step 5: Top sandwich with another waffle. (Optional: Drizzle syrup on top of scrambled eggs before topping with second waffle if desired.)

Syrup being drizzled on waffle breakfast sandwich.

Recipe Tips

  • Cooking Waffles – A toaster is a great way to quickly make waffles. You can also cook frozen waffles in the air fryer. Then, if desired, heat the oven to 200 degrees and place the toasted waffles on a sheet pan to keep them warm while you prepare the rest of the sandwich. 
  • Crispy Bacon – Making sure the bacon is crispy, is key. It makes the sandwich easier to bite in to since the bacon breaks aways instead of pulls out.
  • Kid-Friendly – Mini waffles can also be used to create bite-sized sandwiches perfect for little hands.
  • Additional Sandwich Options – Want more? You can also layer on cooked frozen hashbrown patties, or even cooked sausage patties.

How to Store Waffle Breakfast Sandwiches

  • Leftover Sandwiches: Wrap assembled sandwiches tightly in foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare bacon and scrambled eggs in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture.
  • Freezer Friendly: Assemble the sandwiches, allow them to cool and then wrap in aluminum foil, or my favorite, the “Press ‘n Seal” wrap and then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat them, unwrap then pop them on a baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes at 350 degrees F.

FAQs

How to make the viral waffle house sandwich?

Layer shredded hashbrowns, sausage, scrambled eggs, cheese and bacon between two waffles and drizzle with maple syrup.

What are breakfast sandwich topping ideas?

Bacon, sausage, ham, fried chicken, egg, cheese, avocado, peppers, and spinach, are great breakfas sandwich ideas.

Similar Recipes

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

Recipe

Waffle breakfast sandwich on plate.
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5 from 3 votes

Waffle Breakfast Sandwiches

Waffle Breakfast Sandwiches - these easy breakfast sandwiches take classic breakfast staples and combine them into a fun out-of-the-box breakfast idea.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 sandwiches
Calories 529kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 8 waffles store-bought frozen works great
  • 8 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper or to taste
  • 8 slices cooked bacon crispy – See how to cook bacon
  • 4 slices American cheese
  • pancake syrup optional, for drizzling

Instructions

  • Toast the waffles until they are golden brown and crisp. Set aside on a plate.
  • Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease.
  • In a mixing bowl, crack 8 large eggs and add 2 tablespoons of 2% milk, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper. Using a whisk or fork, beat the mixture briskly until the yolks and whites are fully blended and the surface appears slightly bubbly. This step incorporates air into the eggs, which helps achieve a light and fluffy texture when cooked. 
  • Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and let it melt gently, coating the bottom of the pan. Pour the whisked eggs into the pan. Let them sit undisturbed for a few seconds until the edges begin to set.
  • Using a silicone spatula, gently push the eggs from the edges toward the center. Stir in a circular motion to create soft curds. Be careful not to over-stir, as this will break the texture. When the eggs are mostly set but still slightly wet, place four slices of American cheese over the eggs in four sections and heat until melted. Remove from heat and use your spatula to section the eggs into four equal portions.
  • Lay one waffle on a plate as the base. Place 2 slices of crispy bacon on the waffle. Top with 1 portion of fluffy scrambled eggs with cheese. Drizzle with pancake syrup if desired. Finish with a second toasted waffle on top. Repeat for all 4 waffle sandwiches.
  • Serve immediately while warm. Add extra syrup on the side for dipping.

Notes

Bacon Tip: Making sure your bacon is crispy, makes the sandwich easier to bite in to and eat.
Freezer Friendly: Assemble the sandwiches, allow them to cool and then wrap in aluminum foil, or my favorite, the “Press ‘n Seal” wrap and then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, unwrap then pop them on a baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes at 350 degrees F.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwich | Calories: 529kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 398mg | Sodium: 1784mg | Potassium: 306mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1933IU | Calcium: 445mg | Iron: 6mg

Purse Organization: How to Organize the Inside of your Handbag

This post was sponsored by Playtex® Simply Gentle Glide™. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Purse Organization: How to Organize the Inside of your Handbag – Keeping related items in one spot, in a designated pouch can help you say “goodbye” to purse digging!

Purse Organizer - DIY Purse Organization and how to organize the inside

Purse Organization

Oh how excited I am to finally be sharing with you, my purse organization strategy.

As you know, when it comes to organizing, I owe all of my natural organizing “skillz” to my momma. She is a genius when it comes to making sure that everything has a “home,” and growing up seeing that… I’ve developed SOME of the same tendencies when it comes to organization.

How to Organize the Inside of your Handbag

What I’m sharing today isn’t a certain organization product that you have to purchase at the store, but rather a system that you can implement and create in your own handbag, for exactly what YOU need!

Purse from Nordstrom - How to organize a handbag

The purse I decided to use today for this tutorial is a larger handbag, without dividers, because I feel that these are a major culprit of where things tend to disappear into the big black “hole.”

How to organize beauty items inside of a purse

1. Health + Beauty Pouch

I start organizing by categorizing the items in my purse, and since my health and beauty items tend to take up most of the space, I start organizing these.

Using a small makeup bag, I place items in it like:

  • Playtex® Simply Gentle Glide™ Tampons
  • Mirror
  • Nail Kit
  • Lotion
  • Facial Tissues
  • Lip Gloss
  • Hair Tie + Hair Pins
  • Pain Reliever
  • Hand Sanitizer
Mini organizer - small items for inside of a purse

I also include a smaller pouch that includes teeny tiny beauty “emergency” items like:

  • Deodorant Wipes
  • Needle + Thread
  • Fingernail File
  • Mouthwash
  • Fabric Tape
  • Lip Balm

Then, I just slip the little pouch into the makeup bag, and it’s all contained in one spot! No more digging and fumbling around looking for what you need, when you need it.

Separate kids items in purse to organize

2. Kid Zone

If you’re not a mom then this may not pertain to you… but I’m going to go out on a limb and say you can use this idea for your own stationery needs though too.

I’d much rather have any items that my kids may want or need while out in public, all in one spot. Usually, when they want or ask for something out of my purse, it’s because we need it in a hurry.

You know what I’m talking about. The moments in the store when you just want to get grocery shopping done and they’re so over sitting in the cart, or when you’re out to dinner with friends and they’re getting antsy?

It’s like you can’t get something out fast enough to hopefully entertain them so you can finish.

This pouch (which is typically another small makeup bag, or a pencil bag will work) is where I keep things like colored pencils, small notepads, and small little toys. Then, when I need to grab something for them, I can easily grab this bag and everything I need for them is right there, super handy.

Where I keep my phone, pen keys and other items that are often grabbed

3. Convenience Pocket

You know what pocket I’m talking about… the one that almost every.single.purse has. Friends, don’t fall in to the trap of slipping everything into this pocket.

Save this little handy feature for ONLY the items that you need to access often. Things like:

  • Keys
  • Phone
  • Sunglasses
  • Pen
  • Gum

It may be hard at first to get used to placing those items in to that pocket only, but after a while, it will become second nature to slip your keys and other important items in that handy spot.

What a world of peace you have when you actually find something that you need quickly.

The items I keep inside of my purse to organize it

File Them In

After the small items are organized into bigger items, it’s time to start placing them inside your purse.

During this, I don’t so much worry about where things go, because this part typically moves around quite a bit and that’s not a big deal when the pouches are big enough to see and grab when needed.

Biggest item in the purse first, to keep things organized

TIP: Now although it doesn’t really matter how and where you place your items in to your purse, I DO typically try and place the biggest item in first if I have more of a narrow handbag, so I’m not having to pull big things out to find the smaller items.

Next, wallet for the purse organization

My Purse Contents:

In my bag, you’ll find my makeup bag and wallet, and kid zone bag…

Purse organization - how to keep things organized
If there's room, and when I'm working, I keep my planner and laptop in my purse too.

…then depending on the handbag, if I have room for my planner, that is DEFINITELY going with me. Odds are, when I don’t have it on me, I need it.

How to organize a purse: Purse organizer

In this specific handbag, I love how I also have room for a bottle of water to take along.

Not Pictured:

I do also keep my son’s emergency epilepsy medicine in the right-hand side, of this purse, which comes in a large plastic box… but I knew that this doesn’t apply to a lot of you, so I purposely left it out.

Although, I still have room for that on the other end of my purse! So if you have things like epi-pens, or other medical items to carry around with you, then you can totally relate! If it’s smaller medicine, then keeping it in the health and beauty pouch would work perfectly for this!

When you need something in a hurry, especially a medical emergency, what a life-saver (literally) having it all organized, can be. Right?

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, keep it simple, use what you have on hand and your purse can quickly be something that’s no longer a black hole where things disappear.

So as you can see, you don’t need a lot of extras or a big fancy organization system for your purse. In today's world, sometimes there's just too much extra! Just like when it comes to your tampons, you want them to work with the things you need - comfort, protection, and none of the "extra" bells and whistles you don't.

What Did I Miss?

What do you keep in your purse? I’d love to hear. Did I forget anything? Let me know in the comments below, and share this post with your friends to help them snag some purse organization sanity too!

Best Friend Birthday Gifts

Best Friend Birthday Gifts: DIY gift basket ideas, favorite places to shop, and favorite birthday gift ideas for your best friend.

I’m a sucker for good gift ideas, so when I have a friend that has a birthday coming up, and I’m on top of my game (or what at least feels like it) I LOVE creating the “perfect” gift for her, even if it’s just a small gesture like this cute boxed lunch idea.

However, sometimes, life happens and I forget… life catches up with me and I’m stuck looking for a quick gift to buy online for her. 

 Best Friend Birthday Gifts

But no matter what, it’s the thought that counts, and I truly believe that. Honestly, if she’s a true friend, you may not get her anything at all and she’ll still love you dearly.

Gift Ideas for Her | To Make and/or To Buy

Alright, so now that we’re ready to get to the cutest gift ideas for her, I’m going to show you my favorites and DIY gift ideas that I love to gift to my best friends when I have time and I’m feeling creative…

Then, we’ll go over what you can buy online for those “oops” last minute moments, or if you just don’t feel like DIY’ing or crafting anything!

To DIY…

Spa at Home Gift Basket

best friend birthday gifts - ideas, the places to shop and so many fun things to get her!

Ok, first… can you EVER go wrong with a gift that’s full of things to help you feel like you’re at a spa?

I don’t think so.

However, she may struggle with finding the time to use these items if she’s a busy gal. But if that’s the case, one-up this gift and offer to babysit her kiddos so she can have a night off to use these goodies for her birthday!

In this gift you’ll find things like:

Tip: Don’t just buy these items and throw them into a bag. Take what you can out of the packages and place them in a cute little $2 box from Hobby Lobby or Walmart and arrange them for an adorable presentation!

See the full spa gift idea!

Overnight Self Care Kit

Overnight care for Mom - Gift idea

With a similar take on the spa at home gift idea, this overnight self care kit can take things to a whole other level.

Send her away for a night with her husband, or alone in a hotel where she can catch up on sleep and self care!

Grab a make-up bag (a gift that keeps on giving and sometimes the same price as a stinking gift bag these days) and fill it with items she may love to use while staying overnight!

Get all the details of my overnight self-care kit!

DIY Sangria Kit

Aw, how cool is this! DIY Gift Idea: Sangria for Friends, housewarming, for women, new neighbor, anyone! Who wouldn't love this!? They can even use the drink dispenser again and again!

An INSANELY popular gift idea is my DIY Sangria Kit. When I whipped this up for my sister, I didn’t realize just how popular this gift would turn out to be on Pinterest!

I’m a big fan (if you hadn’t guessed already) of using items that the recipient can reuse as a “gift bag” instead of spending a ton of money of a paper/plastic bag that they’ll just toss in the trash.

This drink dispenser serves as a gift “basket” and it’s something she can reuse over and over again!

Fill it with the ingredients to make a fun sangria and you two can whip up a batch and sip on it that evening!

Get all of the details and my favorite places to buy the items to make this DIY Sangria gift idea HERE!

Gift Basket for a Foodie

Bread Basket Hostess Gift Idea: DIY and FREE Printable!! fantabulosity

My friends know my love for food. So odds are, my friends love food too. So when a gift comes in food-form, you’re speaking my love language.

Although I created this gift idea for a housewarming gift, it works perfectly for the food-lover or chef. Bread, cooking linens, fancy balsamic and olive oil and even a homemade spread!

TIP: Using a wire basket allows the overall gift to look “bigger” and she can see all that’s she’s getting without having to dig in to it!

Plus, a wire basket like this doubles as home decor! Again, a gift that keeps on giving. My favorite!

Get all of the details for this gift basket for a foodie!

Housewarming Gift + Drink Dispenser

DIY House Warming Gift Ideas. Mason Jar Drink dispenser with all of those "always need," items when moving in! Awesome! https://fantabulosity.com

Did your best friend just move in to a new house? We’ve moved more times than I can count, so having someone gift items that I may be running out of or forgetting to purchase every time a make a trip to the store… feels golden.

Plus, filling a drink dispenser with the household items is a great way for the new home owner to later fill it with lemonade or her favorite cocktail to serve her guests when they come over to take a peek at the new place!

See the items I put inside this housewarming gift for our new neighbors!

Sunshine Gift Basket

Sunshine Gift Ideas! Buckets, Box, Bags, anything woiuld work for this! Love it! https://fantabulosity.com

To say this gift idea has gone viral online, is an understatement.

So I feel it’s definitely note-worthy of a great gift idea for your best friend!

Not to mention, this gift is SUPER fun to shop for, when you’re all eyes for anything yellow.

You don’t realize how many yellow things there are in a store, until you start looking specifically for them!

See what yellow items I included in my sunshine gift basket, to get ideas for your own!

Take it Easy Gift Basket

Gift basket idea for men or women

What best friend wouldn’t love a cozy “take it easy” themed gift basket?

A warm blanket, fuzzy slippers, a new coffee mug and maybe throw in a magazine for good measure.

See how I assembled this “take it easy” gift basket idea, to get ideas for your own!

Gift Basket Ideas for All Occasions

DIY housewarming gift idea

I believe that almost any gift can work for a birthday present.

I have SO many more gift ideas here on the blog that you can browse through to get ideas for that special best friend in your life.

Remember, think outside the box… what can they REALLY use… and how can you make it better when it comes to assembling it. (i.e. fun containers, baskets, etc.)

Here are more gift ideas for all occasions to remember for later or to brainstorm more DIY ideas!

Puzzle

I know a puzzle sounds simple… but hear me out. My sister gifted me with a puzzle in the shape of Montana when we moved, and it was the sweetest thing. When she came to visit, we’d drink wine and put it together with family, and then we glued it and framed the puzzle to use as decor in our home.

Favorite Gifts to Buy Best Friend

So those moments we forgot, ran out of time, or just NOT in the mood to be creative with gift baskets??? I’ve got you covered. I’ve been there too.

Since products are ever-evolving, selling out and changing, I’m sharing my favorite places to look FIRST when it comes to buying birthday gifts for my best friends.

Target

If you don’t like Target, I’m not sure we can be friends. Ok, totally kidding… but you can NEVER go wrong with picking up something in the “home” and/or “beauty” section at Target.

  • Fun kitchen utensils, dish towels, plates, coffee mug, cake stands
  • Bookshelf decor, wall hangings
  • Pillows, baskets, throw blankets
  • Notebooks, journals, planners
  • Face masks, makeup, makeup bags
  • Nail polish, pedicure sets, foot soaks
  • Hair masks, hair tools, hair accessories

Then of course, don’t forget to hit up the dollar spot for something fun to garnish the gift with, like a fun notepad or car cell phone holder!

Shop Target Home | Shop Target Beauty

H&M

Friend, if you’ve never shopped H&M’s “Home” section on their website… you are missing OUT.

It’s not only a wonderful place to buy baskets to make gift baskets with, they have the most adorable items to gift someone.

Blankets, baskets, home decor, pillows, and the list goes on. It’s affordable, trendy and something that your friend probably doesn’t already have 50 of because it’s like a hidden secret that so many don’t even know about!

Shop H&M Home

Chic Aprons

Even if your best friend doesn’t cook that often, I can’t help but think that she’d LOVE one of these aprons. I myself, have way too many of these because they’re THAT cute.

There’s something about putting on an adorable apron on when it’s time to make dinner. Kind of like how buying new workout clothes motivates you to workout?

Get her one of these so she can feel great when it’s time to tackle the kitchen.

Shop my FAVORITE Vintage Aprons

Charming Charlie

Charming Charlie has been my favorite place to get wallets, jewelry and purses for the last couple of years.

But each time I go online, I see that they have the CUTEST gift ideas. (You know, the things that we don’t want to spend money on for ourselves, but the adorable things that we’d love to have!?)

So if your best friend is a fashionista, snagging a bag, wallet or jewelry from Charming Charlie is a great place to do so! But they also have cute gifty items like pens, books, and perfume that would make perfect gifts!

Shop Gift Ideas at Charming Charlie

Other Gift Ideas for Your Best Friend

In case you’re still at a loss of what to get your best friend, here are a few great ideas that I’ve loved gifting to my friends:

  • Homemade Food (cookies, cakes, brownies, jams, jellies, extracts)
  • A daily/monthly planner
  • Book
  • Magazine subscription
  • Online classes at Udemy (i.e. cooking, photography, sewing)
  • Gift certificate for a pedicure, manicure, massage at a local salon
  • Floral arrangement (Check to see if they offer a monthly/quarterly delivery service for a gift that keeps on giving.)
  • Suprise dinner with closest girlfriends
  • Wine subscription
  • House cleaning service (unless she could be easily offended, thinking you were saying her house was dirty. Eeeek.)
  • Drop off bagels and flavored cream cheeses from local coffee shop on her doorstep to start her birthday off with a bang!
  • DNA/Family history search

I could go on and on with ideas, because I absolutely love brainstorming and thinking of new ways to gift someone I love and care about.

So if you didn’t see something that will work for you and your best friend, let me know in the comments below! I’ll see if I can think of something for you!

Love Birthday Ideas?

Then you’ll LOVE how we celebrate birthdays and all sorts of occasions around here! Browse our party ideas!

Pin the image below to remember it for later!

25 Apple Salad Recipes: Side Dishes, Desserts + More!

Whether you’re looking for a side dish, dessert, or even salad recipes to use with apples, I think you’ll love these apple salad recipes that I’ve gathered for you!

In the Fall, it’s easy to have a plentiful supply of apples, but the lovely part of recipes using apples is that apples can be found all year long to help keep your kitchen full of yummy recipes so these ideas should come in handy no matter when you’re finding them!

Post originally published in August 2018, updated in May 2023.

Collage of apple salad recipes with text overlay.

Here you’ll find salads with apples, dessert dishes, and side dishes that are perfect for dinner or even to make for the potluck gathering that you’re attending soon!

25 Apple Salad Recipes

Cool Whip Fruit Salad  

This fruity salad has the best cool and creamy dressing. Use cool whip and canned fruit with marshmallows. Add some fresh apples to give this salad a crispy texture that is delicious.

Apple Raspberry Spring Mix

Add berries and apples to  a simple spring mix for a fruity twist on a classic. You can make a meal of this or serve it on the side.

Apple Salad with a Creamy Yogurt and Pudding Dressing

The creamy yogurt and pudding dressing combined with the crunchiness of apples is a combo that’s hard to resist.

Snickers Apple Salad

This dessert salad has so much going for it! It has apples to make it a little healthier, but it has plenty of Snickers candy mixed in to keep it sweet and delicious!

Pecan apple salad on plate next to fork and napkin.

Harvest Chicken Salad

Adding chicken and apples to a salad is one way to make for a fulfilling and healthy meal. This has a great combination of ingredients for unbeatable texture and flavor.

Spinach Salad with Apple

This apple salad has crunchy apples and nuts, and creamy cheese and healthy greens for a great meal.

Arugula Apple Salad

This simple salad is so satisfying! Make this with apples and arugula and be sure to add goat cheese and walnuts for texture and flavor.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Shaved brussels sprouts and apples make such a good combination for a healthy salad. Serve this for lunch or dinner that hits the spot and doesn't weigh you down.

grapes, apples, and walnuts atop greens

Blue Cheese, Grape and Apple Salad

Blue cheese, apples and grapes are such a good combination for a salad. Make this to enjoy for lunch, or serve it with grilled meat for dinner.

Chicken Apple Salad

Chicken and apples go together great in this easy and tasty salad. Make this for a fast and flavorful lunch you can pop in a picnic basket for a great summer meal.

Fall Harvest Salad

This salad has the best harvest flavors in every bite. With maple roasted squash, crispy apples, dried berries and a great dressing, this salad has a little something for everyone.

Cucumber apple salad in bowl.

Apple Cucumber Salad

Make an apple salad with refreshing cucumbers for a unique and delicious flavor that pairs well with so many main meals.

Classic Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad is a potluck staple. This recipe turns out perfectly every time for a crowd pleasing side or dessert option.

Chopped apple salad.

Apple Melon Pineapple Salad

This fruity salad has all of the best flavors for a filling and refreshing healthy meal. This is great for a summer lunch to share with friends.

Spinach Apple Salad

Spinach and apples make for a delicious and easy combination for a healthy salad. You will love the crispy apples with walnuts and goat cheese.

Apple salad in bowl with berries.

Pomegranate and Brussels Sprouts Salad

This salad starts with brussels sprouts sliced thin, and adds crunchy nuts, juicy pomegranate and crisp apples to make a really good salad with plenty of honey mustard dressing!

Rainbow Broccoli Salad

Bring the colors of the rainbow to the table with this crunchy and delicious salad. It has plenty of apples, broccoli, nuts, carrots and grapes to offer a medley of tasty flavors for your next potluck or party.

Apple chicken walnut salad on lettuce leaves.

Apple Walnut Chicken Salad

Adding fruit and nuts is an easy way to make your chicken salad pop with great flavor. This will be a favorite fall lunch that is easy to meal prep ahead of time.

Walnut apple salad on plate.

Walnut Salad

Walnuts are the star of this salad, but it has plenty of apples, greens and onions to give it texture, crunch and so much flavor!

Simple Cabbage and Apple Salad

Simple is always a good idea on a busy night. This recipe uses cabbage and apples to make a great side for grilled meats, or sandwiches.

Green apple salad in bowl.

Apple Gorgonzola Salad

You can skip the trip to Buca di Beppo and get the iconic flavors of their apple gorgonzola salad at home with this easy to recreate dish.

Apple salad with avocado - Harvest salad.

Pomegranate and  Apple Harvest Salad

Pecans, apples, avocado and pomegranate make this salad burst with fresh flavor in every bite.

Cranberry Apple Salad

Cranberries and apples come together to make a fresh and flavorful salad that you can serve all fall long for the best healthy lunches.

Broccoli apple salad in bowl next to apples.

Broccoli Apple Salad 

Crispy apples, crunchy broccoli, and plenty of dressing come together in under 15 minutes to make a colorful and flavorful salad.

Arugula and apple salad.

Fall Panzanella Salad 

This fresh salad has ample fall flavors in an easy to assemble form. You will want to pack this and take it along on a picnic with someone special on a pretty fall day.

Apple salad in platter.

Fall Harvest Salad

Thinly sliced apples atop of leafy green lettuce with nuts, cheese and dressing make for a salad that captures the best flavors of the fall harvest in one easy to make salad.

Love our Recipe Collections?

If you love having themes for some of your favorite types of food, you’ll love these other recipe collections:

Baked BBQ Pork Chops in the Oven

BBQ Pork Chops in the Oven are super simple but full of flavor! It’s an easy dinner idea that goes with so many great side dishes, especially these baked beans with hamburger. The recipe is similar to how to cook pork steaks and the result is a juicy, delicious cut of meat.

Hello again Fantabulosity readers. It's Meg from Meg's Everyday Indulgence again! I'm so pumped to share this recipe with you today. (Photos updated by Fantabulosity in 2024.)

Baked bbq pork chops on a bed on sliced onions.

I have a feeling a lot of you out there are always on the hunt for simple yet delicious dinners that you can get on the table in a flash. You know, the ones that don't require a mountain of ingredients that you don't have on hand. (Or at least the recipes that require little prep like this Coca-Cola BBQ Pulled Pork or bbq pork steak recipes.)

Why You’ll Love These Baked Pork Chops

If you love easy recipes that use simple ingredients, then you’ll love this one!

You’ll find that these baked pork chops use staple ingredients, so much like these broiled pork chops and these creamy crock pot pork chops, and I'm betting you already have all or most of these on hand.

  • Pork Chops
  • Onions
  • Barbecue Sauce
  • Basic Spices (to create a delicious, flavorful rub)

Also, since the pork chops are thinly cut and boneless, they cook very quickly, making them perfect for nights when you don't have much time to get dinner on the table.

Baking cuts of meat in the oven can result in a juicy, tender cut of meat, and these pork chops are no different. For complete temperature and timing guidance, see our full guide on how to cook pork chops in the oven.

Ingredients

Ingredients for baked bbq pork chops.

Pork Chop Rub

Before the boneless pork chops go into the oven to bake, a simple rub is sprinkled all over both sides.

All the ingredients in the rub are pretty basic pantry staples. This includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and paprika.

Almost all of the spices are used in equal amounts (excluding the salt, and if you’re using table salt, you may want to use ½ teaspoon) so it's super simple to mix up and makes a big impact on the flavor.

The Secret to Good Pork Chops

This boneless pork chop recipe has a little secret that adds so much flavor to this cut of pork. By slicing an onion and and layering it along the bottom of your baking dish, adds a lot of flavor to the pork chops.

Baked pork chops on white plate, sitting next to cast iron skillet.

How to Cook Baked Pork Chops

First, as the chops sit on the onion slices and bake away, the onion flavor is imparted upon them. But no fear, it's not a crazy oniony taste that will cause your kids to revolt but a nice, subtle flavor boost.

Sliced onions in bottom of baking dish.
Uncooked pork chops and onions in baking dish.

The second plus is that once the chops are done cooking, the onions have softened and become seasoned with the rub, barbecue sauce, and pork juices, which makes for a great topping to your chops.

Baked bbq pork chops on plate with sliced onions.

TIP: You could easily double or triple the amounts and keep the extra in an airtight container to have it ready for next time.

Barbecue Sauce for Pork Chops

Now the great debate may be on. What kind of barbecue sauce do you like? Hot, sweet, smoky, all of the above?! I'm a sweet, Kansas City style barbecue sauce girl all the way. My husband grew up in KC and I grew up just a few hours away so it's in our DNA to like the sweet saucy stuff.

You obviously can use whatever kind of barbecue sauce you like best and they will all pair well with the rub.

That same sauce is just as good on chicken. These BBQ chicken thighs in the oven use the same trick of baking first and saucing at the end.

Expert Tip

I chose to use somewhat thinly cut chops to keep this a quick cooking meal. I'm always on the lookout for quick, healthy and homemade dinner options for nights when we have dance, Cub Scouts or conferences so it's nice to have another option to add to the arsenal.

What to Serve with BBQ Pork Chops

There’s nothing better than the staples when it comes to sides dishes that go with BBQ. This red skin potato salad is one of our favorite savory salad recipes but pasta salad recipes are always a good option too! Or, it’s hard to have pork without this KFC Copycat Coleslaw recipe!

More Pork Chop and Pork Steak Recipes You'll Love:

If you love cuts of pork these are some other great easy recipes that you’ll want to try out for sure. Or, if you’re a fan of using the slow cooker, give these slow cooker bbq pork steaks a try! (Pork steaks are taken from the shoulder of a pig and are usually tougher than chops… but juicier.)

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

Recipe

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4.88 from 33 votes

Baked BBQ Pork Chops

Baked BBQ Pork Chops in the oven are a super easy dinner that's on the table in 30 minutes. Sweet, smoky, simple and delicious.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 119kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced into ¼-inch rings
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 ¼-inch thick boneless pork chops
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce

For the BBQ Rub:

  • 1 ½ Tablespoon kosher salt If using table salt, you may want to use less.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Layer onions in a large cast iron skillet or 9×3 baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil. Set aside.
  • In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika and pepper. 
  • Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with the bbq rub. Place the seasoned chops on top of the onions. Bake for 15 minutes. 
  • Remove from the oven and brush both sides of the chops generously with barbecue sauce. Bake another 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145 F. Remove from oven and let rest for 3 minutes before slicing. Top with onions when serving.

Video

Notes

This recipe is easy to double or triple if you need larger amounts.
Make sure not to overlap the pork chops so they cook evenly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4g | Sodium: 2528mg | Potassium: 163mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 565IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 0.6mg

Pork Steaks in the Oven

Pork steaks are one of those cuts that used to scare me off, but the oven makes them easy. You season them, bake them until they hit 145°F, and brush on your barbecue sauce. That’s it. They come out tender every time, and you don’t have to babysit a grill to get there. If you love my slow cooker pork steaks, this is the same fork-tender result straight from the oven.

Chicken gets the same treatment. These oven baked BBQ chicken thighs bake plain first and get their sauce in the last few minutes, so it never burns.

Baked bbq pork steaks on white plate.

Why You’ll Love These Baked Pork Steaks

If you have pork steaks or pork shoulders (or blade steaks) sitting in your freezer or refrigerator, then you may have happened upon here while trying to find one of the BEST pork steak recipes you can find, for an easy dinner recipe.

Some pork recipes are grilled, some cooked in a cast iron pan with gravy drippings, some in a slow cooker, like this slow cooker bbq pulled pork, and more! But baking is by far our favorite way to have bbq pork steaks, with no marinade required!

When I shared how to cook steak in the oven, and how easy it is to get a melt-in-your-mouth steak with that process, I knew you’d love seeing how to bake all different kinds of steaks.

I think you’re in the right place and that you’re going to love how easy and how delicious this pork steak recipe is. Serve them with these Dr. Pepper Baked Beans and your dinner will be incredible.

If you also saw my slow cooker bbq pork steaks recipe, then you may already know that cooking them slowly, over a longer period of time makes the pork steak meat literally fall off of the bone.

But when you need something a bit quicker, baking pork steaks in the oven is an alternative that definitely won’t disappoint you and will also leave you with tender pork steaks.

The day that I made these to take photos for the blog, I only made two steaks, as it was just the right amount for what we needed that day…however I’ve created the recipe in the recipe card below to reflect 4 pork steaks, as that would be more common for a family of 4.

What is a Pork Steak?

Pork steaks are a section of a hog that’s cut from the shoulder, and /or butt. Some grocery stores or butcher shops have pork steaks ready for you. However, if you are not able to find them, you can ask them to cut pork shoulder or pork butt in to steaks for grilling.

Recipes like this are perfect examples of classic old-fashioned dinner ideas.

Uncooked pork steaks sitting on packaging.

What is the Difference Between Pork Chops and Pork Steaks?

Since pork steaks come from the shoulder and or butt area of a hog, the pork chops are cut from the loin section. Pork chops like these Baked Pork Chops, tend to be lean than pork steaks and can sometimes be more “dry” than pork steaks, where pork steaks tend to have more fat around the meat to help make them juicy. Now, if you have pork chops instead, this fried pork chops recipe is easy to make and frying them can add so much flavor!

How to Keep Pork Steaks Tender and Not Tough

Pork steaks come from the shoulder, so they’re marbled and forgiving, but they can turn tough if you rush them. Two things keep them tender. First, give them the full bake time so the fat and connective tissue soften. Pulling them early is what leaves them chewy. Second, cook to 145°F and then let them rest a few minutes before serving so the juices settle back in. Slice against the grain and they’ll practically fall apart.

Ingredients for Pork Steaks in the Oven

All you’ll need for these delicious, tender porks steaks are:

  • Pork Steaks – As many as you’ll need to serve.
  • Salt – This is optional, and remember that your barbeque sauce could have salt in it.
  • Pepper – This is also optional, and it’s important to keep in mind how spicy the bbq sauce is that you’re using.
  • BBQ Sauce – your favorite kind will do! We love using Sweet Baby Rays.

How to Cook Pork Steak

Now of course you don’t have to cook pork steaks with bbq sauce, but for us, it’s really hard to cook them/eat them any other way.

Feel free to have fun creating sauces and using different spices for your pork steaks, but if you’re wanting to bake your steaks in the oven, then this is a great reference to find out how long to cook them.

You can find the full recipe card with an ingredient list and instructions at the bottom of this post.

Start by preheating your oven to 400º and then cover your pork steaks with salt and pepper (if desired).

PRO TIP: You can even pound your pork steaks with a meat tenderizer before seasoning them if you want to make sure they’re super tender.

4 image collage of baked pork steaks.
  1. Next, line a baking pan (large enough to fit the number of steaks you’re cooking, so they don’t overlap) with aluminum foil for easy cleaning, and then drizzle a layer of barbeque sauce on the aluminum foil where you’ll place each steak.
  2. Place your steaks down on the foil and sauce.
  3. Then, cover steaks with the remaining bbq sauce.

How Long Should You Cook Pork Steaks in the Oven?

  1. Bake the pork steaks uncovered for 50-60 minutes, (on the middle rack) or until the internal temperature of the steaks reaches 145 degrees.

NOTE: Oven temperatures can vary, and some have reported that they prefer baking at 350 for 50-60 minutes, or checking the internal temp after 30 minutes to avoid over-cooking. I’ve even used different ovens and have found myself, cooking them for shorter/longer times, so it’s best to check to see what works best for yours.

Cut bbq pork steaks with a piece on a fork.

Expert Tips:

  • Flexible: You can cook one pork steak up to as many as you want/need, as long as they fit in the baking pan you plan to use, and if you have enough bbq sauce to cover them. You can even pop some hot dogs in the oven for the kids, since you bake those at the same temperature. (Just not as long!)
  • Dinner Meal Plan: Cook more than you need, and serve the leftovers, sliced, on bbq nachos, on a side salad to make it an entree, or as a sandwich!

Recipe FAQs

What temperature do you cook pork steaks?

Bake pork steaks at 400° for 50-60 minutes.

Should pork steaks rest before serving?

Although it’s not a must, it is a great idea to allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to all of the juices to set in before slicing.

What should the internal temperature be of cooked pork steaks?

The internal temperature of cooked pork steaks should reach at least 145°F before eating.

Why are my pork steaks tough?

Usually they came out of the oven too soon. Pork steaks need time for the fat and connective tissue to break down. Let them reach 145°F, then rest before slicing. Cutting into them right away lets the juices run out and makes them dry.

Can I use a different barbecue sauce?

Absolutely. Sweet Baby Ray’s is our go-to for that sweet, sticky finish, but any barbecue sauce you love will work. A thicker sauce clings better and caramelizes nicely in the oven.

Can you make baked pork steaks ahead of time?

Yes. Bake them, cool them, and refrigerate. Reheat covered so they don’t dry out, adding a little extra sauce before they go back in. They’re great for meal prep or a make-ahead Sunday dinner.

Can you freeze pork steaks?

You can. Let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container [add your tested freeze time, commonly up to 2 to 3 months]. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently with a bit more sauce.

How to Store

Refrigerate: If you have leftover pork steaks, it’s best to allow them to cool and then place in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freeze: You can freeze leftover pork steaks in a freezer-safe container for up to 3-4 months.

Thaw: Thaw the pork steaks in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheat: Sometimes reheating cooked pork steaks can make them dry. So if reheating in the oven, place the pork steaks in a baking pan (with raised sides) and pour about ¼ cup of broth in the bottom, to help add moisture to the steaks while reheating.

What Side Dishes to Serve with Pork Steaks

Side dishes that go with BBQ pulled pork are often delicious with pork steaks too! This KFC coleslaw is a staple side dish for pork recipes but I also LOVE Pasta Salads!

This creamy corn casserole recipe, Amish Potato Salad or this old-fashioned potato salad (or this cauliflower potato salad for low-carb eaters), and this Cornbread Salad.

But, adding some ground beef to baked beans lately has been a winner too!

Meal Planning for the Week?

Since the oven is hot, consider making burgers in the oven too, so you can eat on them all week! Just re-heat and serve! Or, making these cube steaks in the slow cooker is so easy!

More Pork Recipes

We love having pork steaks and pork chops around here. They’re so easy and actually pretty affordable. Here are our favorite pork recipes that you don’t want to miss…

Recipe

BBQ pork steaks cooked in the oven, that are on a white plate.
Print Pin
4.64 from 407 votes

BBQ Pork Steaks in the Oven

These BBQ pork steaks in the oven are so easy. Season, sauce and bake at 400° F. for delicious, tender and juicy pork steaks.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 steaks
Calories 208kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 pork steaks or pork shoulders
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • 16 ounce bottle of barbecue sauce I use Sweet Baby Rays

Instructions

  • Prep: Preheat oven to 400 degrees
  • Season: Rub salt and pepper on both sides of each pork steak if desired
    4 pork steaks or pork shoulders, salt, pepper
  • Cover Pan: Line a baking pan (large enough to fit the number of steaks you're cooking, so they don't overlap) with aluminum foil.
  • Sauce the Pan: Drizzle half a bottle of barbeque sauce on the aluminum foil where you'll place each steak.
    16 ounce bottle of barbecue sauce
  • Sauce the Steaks: Place your steaks down on the foil and sauce, and then cover steaks with remaining bbq sauce.
  • Bake: Bake the pork steaks at 400 degrees, uncovered for 50-60 minutes, (on the middle rack) or until the internal temperature of the steaks reaches 145 degrees.
    NOTE: Oven temperatures can vary, and some have reported that they prefer baking at 350 for 50-60 minutes, or checking the internal temp after 30 minutes to avoid over-baking.

Video

Notes

Storage of Leftovers:
Refrigerate: If you have leftover pork steaks, it’s best to allow them to cool and then place in an airtight container, in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Freeze: If you’d like to freeze leftovers, allow them to fully cool, and store in a freezer-safe container for 3-4 months.
Thaw: Thaw the pork steaks in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat: Sometimes reheating cooked pork steaks can make them dry. So if reheating in the oven, place the pork steaks in a baking pan (with raised sides) and pour about ¼ cup of broth in the bottom, to help add moisture to the steaks while reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1steak | Calories: 208kcal | Protein: 28g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 89mg | Sodium: 66mg | Potassium: 499mg | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 0.7mg

Cinnamon Roll Casserole

An easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole that’s perfect for breakfast, made of cinnamon roll pieces, butter, cinnamon, vanilla, heavy cream, syrup and eggs!

cinnamon roll casserole on white plate

If you love cinnamon, you’ll also love to see how we make cinnamon rolls in the air fryer, this cinnamon coffee cake recipe, and this vintage supper cake.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

Oh heavens. Your Saturday morning is going to be complete with this easy breakfast recipe. But specifically, here’s why you’ll love this one:

  • This recipe is made using refrigerated cinnamon rolls! YES! We love shortcuts in the kitchen (like when we used crescent rolls for this biscuit and gravy casserole) and this recipe is no exception!
  • You can also make this recipe ahead of time and I give instructions and tips on how to do that below!
slice of cinnamon roll casserole on white plate with baking dish in back

Ingredient Notes

By using canned cinnamon rolls, it really cuts down on the other simple ingredients for this recipe!

labeled ingredients for cinnamon roll casserole, on counter
  • unsalted butter – You can use salted butter too, and it turns out just fine!
  • canned cinnamon rolls – We used Pillsbury cinnamon rolls but any brand/type will do, and either the original icing or cream cheese icing works great as well.

To skip right to the recipe card where you can find the ingredients and instructions for this easy recipe, just scroll down to the bottom of this post and there you’ll find where you can print and gather all of the info that you need!

Step by Step Directions

  1. First, preheat the oven to 375 degrees and lightly spray an 8×8 baking pan.
  2. Then start breaking the cinnamon rolls in to small pieces and place in to greased baking dish.
small pieces of cinnamon rolls in dish
Break cinnamon rolls in to pieces
Melted butter pouring on top
Pour melted butter on top
  1. In a medium bowl, beat together the eggs, heavy cream, cinnamon, and vanilla until combined well.
heavy cream pouring in bowl with eggs
Pour heavy cream in eggs
Cinnamon pouring in to bowl
Add cinnamon
Vanilla pouring in to bowl
Add vanilla
Mixing ingredients together in bowl
Mix ingredients together
  1. Pour egg mixture over the top of the cinnamon rolls in the dish.
fully mixed batter in bowl
Ready for pouring
Pouring batter over cinnamon rolls
Pour batter over rolls
  1. Drizzle the maple syrup all over the top.
Pouring syrup over rolls
Pour syrup over rolls
  1. Place in your preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes (see tips below for your desired baking time), until the top is golden brown, and let cool for a few minutes.
baked cinnamon roll casserole
Fresh from the oven
  1. Remove the metal lid from the icing container and microwave the icing for 5-10 seconds, until it's thin enough to drizzle. Then, pour the icing all over the top of the casserole!
Pouring icing over cinnamon rolls
Pour icing on top
icing all over top of cinnamon rolls
Icing on top

How Long to Bake Cinnamon Roll Casserole

If you see the photos below, the first image of the cinnamon roll casserole is baked for 20 minutes at 375°. This is a more gooey, soft, doughy center, that some prefer. For instance, if you love a gooey cinnamon roll… then you may prefer 20 minutes.

The second image is the cinnamon roll casserole baked for 25-30 minutes, giving the casserole more of a “cooked” fluffy center that others may prefer.

cinnamon roll casserole on spatula
Baked for 20 minutes
Cinnamon roll casserole on spatula
Baked for 25-30 minutes
  1. When the casserole is baked to your desired level, sprinkle powdered sugar on top, if desired and enjoy!
Powdered sugar on top of casserole
Sprinkle powdered sugar

Keep in mind, this delicious breakfast casserole is best served as a warm casserole, with a little extra syrup and powdered sugar.

Cinnamon roll casserole bite on fork

FAQs

Can I double this cinnamon roll casserole recipe?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use an 8×11 baking pan or casserole dish. Cooking time should still be the same, but keep in mind how gooey you want the center. See notes in post for different bake time.

What about a 9×13 pan? Although this pan size may be more common in your home, it may work ok but I haven’t tried this. I caution against it because there’s a lot of space left between the cinnamon roll pieces and this allows the egg/cream mixture to sit, and could be sections of a scrambled egg texture.

Can I make cinnamon roll casserole in advance?

This casserole can all be put together the night before, covered and stored in the refrigerator, and then baked the next morning. The baking temperature stays the same but since the casserole will be really cold from refrigeration, you may want to leave it to sit out on the counter for 30 minutes or so before baking may keep the baking time but not necessary.

How do you store this sweet breakfast casserole?

If you happen to have leftovers of this cinnamon roll breakfast bake, store in an airtight container or allow casserole to come to room temperature and place plastic wrap on top of baking dish and place in the refrigerator. For best results, enjoy the next morning or within 5 days.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Now although I’ve called this a cinnamon roll casserole, this could easily be called a cinnamon roll french toast casserole because of the eggs and maple syrup drizzle… so call it whatever you like, and whatever tickles your fancy!

If you love this easy breakfast casserole recipe, then you’ll adore these other breakfast recipes, such as these pancakes in the oven, this French Toast Bake, and this Easy, Fluffy Pancake Recipe.

Then of course, if you’d like to browse ALL of the easy breakfast recipes, especially mini cinnamon rolls, you’re sure to find more to add to your weekend favorites for the perfect breakfast or for even a holiday brunch!

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

Recipe

slice of cinnamon roll casserole on plate
Print Pin
4.71 from 87 votes

Cinnamon Roll Casserole

An easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole that's perfect for breakfast, made of cinnamon roll pieces, butter, cinnamon, vanilla, heavy cream, syrup and eggs!
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 382kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 12.4 ounces can Pillsbury Original Icing Cinnamon Rolls
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • powdered sugar if desired

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees and lightly spray an 8×8 baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Break cinnamon rolls apart in to small pieces and place in greased baking dish.
  • Melt the butter and pour it on top of cinnamon rolls.
  • In a medium bowl, beat together the eggs, heavy cream, cinnamon and vanilla until well combined. Pour over the top of the cinnamon rolls in the dish. 
  • Drizzle the maple syrup all over the top. 
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, until top is golden brown. Cool for a few minutes. (See notes in post for specific baking times for desired texture.)
  • Remove the metal lid from the icing container and microwave the icing for 5-10 seconds, until it's thin enough to drizzle. 
  • Pour the icing all over the top. Best served warm with a little extra syrup and powdered sugar. 

Video

Notes

Making cinnamon roll casserole in advance:
This casserole can all be put together the night before, covered and stored in the refrigerator, and then baked the next morning. The baking temperature stays the same but since the casserole will be really cold from refrigeration, you may want to leave it to sit out on the counter for 30 minutes or so before baking may keep the baking time but not necessary.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 382kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 114mg | Sodium: 462mg | Potassium: 108mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 29g | Vitamin A: 398IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 1mg

Thai Salad Recipe with Noodles and Cabbage

This Thai Salad Recipe with Rice Noodles and Cabbage is unlike any you've seen before. Soft rice noodles, crunchy cabbage, red bell peppers and more drenched in a deliciously rich peanut sauce.

Hi friends! It's Meg again from Meg's Everyday Indulgence. I am so excited to be sharing another delicious and super flavorful recipe with you today, Thai Salad with rice noodles and cabbage. It’s just ONE of the many salad recipes here on Fantabulosity!

Thai Salad Recipe

Thai Salad with Noodles and Cabbage is packed with flavor and texture.

Let's break down everything in this textural Thai salad:

  • Tender skinny rice noodles
  • Crunchy cabbage
  • Thinly sliced red bell peppers
  • Shredded carrots
  • Green onions
  • Cilantro
  • Dry roasted peanuts
  • Delicious and simple homemade peanut sauce

Such an Easy Recipe!

What's not to like, right?!

I know the ingredient list may seem long but please don't let it scare you away. They are all common ingredients you can find in any decent sized grocery store. And you may already have them in your refrigerator and pantry.

And it is super simple to throw together with just a few minutes of chopping vegetables and a quick buzz of the food processor or blender for the peanut sauce. All of which can be done while you are waiting for the water to boil for the rice noodles.

And you can even take some shortcuts like I did by purchasing the cabbage and carrots already shredded. I'm always down for some store-bought help.

Thai Salad with Noodles and Cabbage is packed full of flavor and texture.

All About that Texture

The textures in this salad are out of this world good. Like, so so good. I love lots of texture in my food and this salad is packed full of it.

Shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, red bell peppers, and peanuts bring a major crunch factor while the noodles add something soft to the mix. Then, of course, there's the creamy peanut sauce that brings it all together.

Thai Salad with Noodles and Cabbage is packed full of flavor and texture.

Thai Salad Dressing – Peanut Sauce

We need to talk about that peanut sauce next my friends. The base is honey roasted peanut butter and it's a total game changer. It's extra rich and nutty and the honey brings the perfect amount of sweetness to the sauce.

I mean, you could use regular peanut butter and add in a drizzle of honey if you HAD to but the honey roasted version really does make a big difference. My favorite is fresh ground from Fresh Thyme so if you have one of them in your area RUN there now and get some. It's kind of life changing.

There's a good amount of soy sauce in it which brings some extra depth and umami. Lime juice balances out the sweetness and the acidity helps balance out the richness of the other ingredients.

It's so good you may want to drink it. Or dunk all the things in it.

Add Meat – Chicken, Beef

This is great as a side dish or if you wanted to turn it into a main dish, you could add some shredded or chopped meat like chicken (did somebody say Costco rotisserie chicken for a Thai Chicken Salad?) to bulk it up.

Thai Salad with Noodles and Cabbage is packed full of flavor and texture.

It would also be a really fun and different contribution to a potluck.

No matter how you decide to enjoy it, I'm pretty sure the flavors and texture are going to blow your mind.

Recipe

Thai Salad with Noodles and Cabbage is packed full of flavor and texture.
Print Pin
5 from 4 votes

Thai Salad Recipe with Noodles and Cabbage

Thai Salad Recipe with Noodles and Cabbage is the perfect way to enjoy all those Thai flavors. Super simple to make and packed full of flavor and texture.
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Asian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 389kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 4 oz. thin rice noodles
  • 8.5 oz. shredded cabbage mix
  • ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 green onions, white and green thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup shredded carrots
  • 2 Tbsp. torn cilantro
  • ¼ cup dry roasted peanuts

For the Peanut Sauce:

  • ½ cup honey roasted peanut butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled
  • ½ tsp. grated fresh ginger
  • 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. lime juice
  • 1 Tbsp. rice vinegar
  • ½ tsp. sesame oil

Instructions

  • Cook rice noodles according to package directions. Meanwhile, slice the vegetables for the salad. Toss together cabbage, bell pepper, green onions, carrots and cilantro in a large bowl. Set aside.
  • In a food processor or blender, combine the sauce ingredients. Blend until sauce is completely smooth. 
  • Once noodles are cooked, rinse well under cold water. Drain well and toss with the vegetables in the bowl. Pour about ¾ of the dressing over the salad and mix together until everything is coated. Add remaining dressing if desired and toss again. Sprinkle salad with cilantro and peanuts.

Notes

Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (about ½ cup) | Calories: 389kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 697mg | Potassium: 501mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 2420IU | Vitamin C: 47.4mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 1.8mg

What Do You Think?

Did you try this recipe? We’d LOVE to hear about what you think. Give it a review and drop us a note to let us know!

Looking for other easy side dish recipes? Then you’ll love our side dish archives. Give them a browse HERE!

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Oreo Cheesecake

This Oreo cheesecake recipe is a no-bake dessert that has an Oreo crust, and a creamy filling made of cream cheese, Oreo cookie cream filling, and Cool Whip.

Slice of Oreo cheesecake on a plate, sitting in front of whole cheesecake.

We are MAJOR Oreo fans in this house. I mean, so much so, that we’ve even had them for breakfast in Oreo pancakes, and when they come out with one of their new flavors, you MAY find us dancing in the store aisles and making an Oreo mug cake just to test them out. But the plain ole original Oreos will always have my heart.

Anything cookies and cream or Oreo-flavored is going to win over my family, and this Oreo cheesecake recipe is no exception. We even used Oreos to make this Nutella cheesecake recipe and brookies with Oreos.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No-Bake Recipe: No-bake desserts like this cheesecake, these Oreo rice Krispy treats, and this Oreo dessert recipe, are just some of our favorite no-bake desserts! “No-bake” usually means less time in the kitchen and fewer opportunities to mess something up. That’s a combination that I love.
  • Simple Ingredients: Only 8 ingredients are needed (and really, you could get away with only some of them if you leave off the candy garnishes) and you may already have the items in your refrigerator and pantry.
  • Make-Ahead: If hosting a party, cooking for a holiday, or just wanting to make an easy dessert in advance, this cheesecake is great to make ahead of time, since it needs to chill for at least 4 hours. This Oreo fudge is a hit around Christmas time though if you’re looking for a new fudge recipe to try.

Love easy no-bake cheesecakes? This cherry cheesecake recipe is similar and even looks beautiful when served alongside this cookie cheesecake on the dessert table.

Ingredients for Oreo Cheesecake

  • Oreos: Or your favorite brand of chocolate sandwich cookies. Personally, I think Oreos are the best, and use them in all of my chocolate cookie recipes, especially in this reader-favorite, Oreo Layered Dessert recipe. Buy extra Oreos so you can also make this Oreo pizza later.
  • Butter: Salted or unsalted will work for this recipe. I always seem to have salted butter on hand, and I love how the bit of salt has a tasty contrast with the sweetness of a dessert like this one.
  • Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is easier to work with in recipes like this one so allowing it to sit out an hour or so before starting, is a great idea.
  • Sugar: White granulated sugar is recommended for this recipe.
  • Whipped Cream: Feel free to make your own whipped cream but I love using Cool Whip to keep things easy in the kitchen.
  • Cookies and Cream Hershey Bars: These are optional, and are decorative (while also being delicious) on top of the finished cheesecake.
  • Cookies and Cream Hershey Kisses: Also optional, these are decorative and add a fun bite to the smooth cheesecake.
  • Vanilla Icing: Optional, drizzling vanilla frosting on top adds a fun look and another bite of chocolate. Buying pre-made icing in the piping bags is a great option for this.

Substitutions

Although an Oreo cookie crust is absolutely amazing, if you’d like to change some things up, you can try this pie crust recipe made of Biscoff cookies.

How to Make Oreo Cheesecake

You’ll find the full recipe card below, but I like to give photo instructions and little tidbits along the way too, in case you find that it helps you with the recipe.

Two images with first photo showing the cheesecake filling and second image showing Oreo cookies in food processor.

You’ll want to begin by grabbing a package and a half of the Oreos and separating the cookies and the cream centers.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

Place the cream centers of the cookies into a mixing bowl and the cookies into a food processor.

Add your cream cheese and sugar into the mixing bowl and mix with a hand mixer until smooth.

Next, add in your Cool Whip and the rest of your Oreos (broken up). Don’t forget to save about 6 of the Oreos though to use as the topping garnish!

Mix well with a hand mixer until well blended and smooth. Set aside.

In a food processor, process the cookies until fine.

Gradually add butter, until the cookies become slightly moist. (Wet sand consistency.)Then, mix well.

Press the cookie mixture into the bottom of a greased cheesecake pan, and press down firmly.

Pour cheesecake batter over the crust and smooth out evenly, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

Two images, with left showing Oreo cookie crust and right showing Oreo cheesecake filling in pan.

Toppings + Garnishes for Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake has set, you can top your cheesecake and garnish with the Hershey Cookies and Cream Kisses, Cookies and Cream Hershey Bars, and remaining Oreo cookies!

Or, top with your favorite fruit, like strawberries! But if you love strawberry cheesecake, then you’re really going to love this strawberry crunch cheesecake!

Oreo cheesecake in pan, with toppings.

Freeze the Oreo Cheesecake for One Hour

Last, after decorating, you’ll want to pop it in the freezer for an hour to help it all set even more, and then serve and enjoy!

Now if that doesn’t conquer your sweet tooth, I don’t know what would!

No bake Oreo cheesecake on cake stand.

How to Store Oreo Cheesecake

Store the Oreo cheesecake in the freezer for best results, or if serving soon, store in the refrigerator to allow for easier slicing.

Slice of Oreo cheesecake with a bite taken off, sitting on a plate.

More Oreo Recipes:

Love Oreo cookies as much as I do? Then you’ll also love these favorites:

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

Originally published: 2018
Updated and republished: May 2025

Recipe

Slice of no bake Oreo cheesecake on a plate with a Hugs Kiss, candy bar and Oreo cookie.
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Oreo Cheesecake

Oreo Cheesecake Recipe: A no bake cheesecake recipe on an Oreo crust that cookies and cream lovers will ADORE and that’s easy to make for a chocolate dessert recipe!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Refrigeration/Freezing 4 hours
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 779kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 2 13 ounce packages Oreos (Set 6 aside for topping)
  • 3-4 tablespoons butter melted
  • 16 ounces cream cheese
  • ⅔ cup sugar
  • 16 ounces whipped cream
  • 1 cookies and cream candy bars optional for garnish
  • Cookies and Cream Hershey Kisses optional for garnish

Instructions

  • Start by separating a package and a half of Oreos. Placing the centers in a mixing bowl and the cookie into a food processor.
  • Add your cream cheese and sugar into the mixing bowl and mix with a hand mixer until smooth.
  • Next, add in your cool whip and the rest of your Oreos (broken up). Mix well with a hand mixer until well blended and smooth. Set aside.
  • In a food processor, process cookies until fine.
  • Gradually add butter, until cookies become slightly moist. (Wet sand consistency, unless you want a crumbly crust.) Mix well.
  • Press cookie mixture into the bottom of a greased cheesecake pan. Press firmly.
  • Pour cheesecake batter over crust and smooth out evenly.
  • Place in the fridge for 3 hours.
  • Once set, add frosting swirls to the top of cheesecake.
  • Then top with Oreos, Hershey kisses, and Hershey candy bars. However, you desire.
  • Place in the freezer for one hour.
  • Serve and enjoy!

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice (about 1/10 cake) | Calories: 779kcal | Carbohydrates: 85g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 47g | Saturated Fat: 23g | Cholesterol: 93mg | Sodium: 596mg | Potassium: 324mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 55g | Vitamin A: 1025IU | Calcium: 111mg | Iron: 8.1mg

Daily Planner – Free Printable

Daily Planner Free Printable – this cute and free day planner sheet is the BEST for staying organized during the day. Why? Because YOU helped create it!

Daily Planner Printable - Free Download

Daily Planner – Free Printable

Have you ever searched for a cute, practical, organizing daily planner, only to come up short handed? Yeah, me too.

I mean, don’t get me wrong, I have found planners that work for me, but I still feel like I’m wasting space and I’m still crossing things out to make it more of “my own” to help me stay on track for the day. I still felt like something was missing from the planner that I was using.

I also made this monthly planner that has helped on a bigger scale!

Is Something Missing From Your Daily Planner?

Then you all said something that started to make me really wonder…

“Jessica, PAH-LEESE create a planner that we can actually use!”

I hear you, heard you, and am exploring the idea to see if it’s something that should be created.

Gotta Start Somewhere!

So when I sat down to dream up what the BEST daily planner sheet would and could include in a daily planner (and after asking all of you for your input too) I’m sharing the result (and free download) with you to use NOW! Because why wait until everything is perfect.

That’s not real life, right? So, let’s see if we like this planner sheet… and if we do, it will validate that there needs to be more where that came from, yes? Yes.

Daily Planner Printables Free Organizer - so cute and best for organization!

But First…What do YOU Want a Planner to have?

So although this daily planner sheet is ready for you to use, that doesn’t mean that it’s the final version. It also doesn’t mean that it’s the only sheet that could be in the planner.

So what does this mean?

I want to hear from YOU! What do YOU want the daily planning sheet to have? And what other types of planning sheets would you like to see in a planner?

Daily Planner Printables Free Organizer - so cute and best for organization!

Some suggestions have been:

  • Pre-dated Sheets or Undated for use all year long?
  • A physical planner
  • Digital download sheets to make your own
  • 5 x 8 or 8.5 x 11 size sheets/planner
  • Real life mom inspiration quotes, bible verses
  • Budget sheets
  • Meal planning sheets
  • Inside pocket
  • Stickers
  • To-do list for kids
  • Mom Hacks
  • Spiral-bound

Let’s hear your suggestions! I’d love to incorporate all that I can, to make it even better!

Or, feel free to let me know in the comments below, on Facebook or even send me an email at jessica(@)fantabulosity.com

Get Your Free Daily Planner Printable:

If you’d like to use this daily planner sheet now, go for it! I hope it helps you get more organized with your days, so you have more time to focus on the things that matter!

Then, download, print, hole punch if you prefer… and store it in your favorite 3-ring binder!

Download the Daily Planner Printable HERE!

50 + I Love You Because… Ideas and Thought Starters

“I love you because” ideas and thought starters for greeting cards, for kids or for a husband or wife to say at the right time!

I love you because ideas

When creating the printables for the post “Open When Letters“, I realized how difficult it can be sometimes to say what we truly feel when we really want to say it.

Especially if you’re a man or woman of a few words, trying to find the right thing to say can be difficult.

But no one said you had to think of everything from scratch, right? There’s absolutely nothing wrong with looking online to help you get a jump start of saying “the right thing” to the one that you love.

I Love You Because…

So whether or not you’re looking for fun ways to say “I love you because” to say to your girlfriend, wife, husband, boyfriend, child or even a friend or another family member, here are some ideas to get you started.

Feel free to use them as is, mix them up, and adjust to how they fit your relationship!

“I Love You Because” Ideas for Husband, Wife, Boyfriend, Girlfriend:

  • you listen to me when I need to vent.
  • you’ve helped me discover who I really am and who I want to be.
  • there’s not a day that goes by that I feel unloved.
  • you’re such a hard worker.
  • you provide for our family.
  • you’re such a good dad/mom.
  • you let me be me.
  • you’re so stinking cute!
  • you bring out the best in me.
  • you help me around the house.
  • our kids look up to you.
  • we can laugh at and with each other.
  • we make such a good team.
  • of your smile.
  • you protect us.
  • of the funny things you say.
  • you keep our house in order.
  • you make amazing dinners.
  • your butt looks good in jeans.
  • you keep me on my toes.
  • you love Jesus first.
  • of the example you set for our children.

“I Love You Because” Ideas for Child:

  • you have such a good heart.
  • you let me.
  • you’re such a good sister/brother.
  • you make me laugh.
  • playing nice with others is something you’re great at.
  • you help out at home.
  • you do your best.
  • God made you just the way you are.
  • you give the best hugs and kisses.
  • you’re eager to learn.
  • loving you is easy.
  • you melt my heart.
  • we both love ______.
  • we both love to play______.
  • you eat your veggies and healthy foods.
  • your snuggles are the best!

“I Love You Because” Ideas for Friend/Family Member:

  • you’re always there for me.
  • we can vent together.
  • you don’t judge me.
  • we can pick up right where we left off.
  • you know too much! (Ha!)
  • you’ll watch my kids at the drop of a hat.
  • a midnight call is never too late.
  • our long drives always include the BEST songs.
  • you bake some mean cookies.
  • your cocktails always go down smooth.
  • you’re brutally honest about my outfit choices.
  • your advice is better than “Dear Abby’s”.
  • your marriage is something to look up to.
  • I’ve never met someone so passionate about _____.
  • your hugs are the absolute best.
  • we do the best karaoke duets together.
  • you stand up for me during the hard times.

Is There Something Else?

Is there something else that should be on the list? Of course there are gobs and gobs of things you could say to your loved one, but I hope these ideas give you the right words to say or at least some inspiration to get you started.

Ways to Use “I Love You Because”

Do you want to tell someone you love them, and why… but not sure how to do it?

Here are a few fun ideas I thought of, in case you’re looking for ways to express why you love him or her.

  • Simply just tell them. Over the phone, through text, in person. Sometimes we don’t say it enough, or don’t dig deep in to the why, when in reality, giving a reason why can be something wonderful that he or she can hold on to for the rest of their life.
  • Hidden letters. Hide small notes around the house (underwear drawer, suitcase when he/she travels, lunchbox, cabinet, etc.)
  • Through a video. Create a video listing all of the reasons of why you love them. It’s something special that they can hang on to for forever, and see you while you’re saying it. Sometimes saying things on video is much easier than saying it in person.
  • In public. Want to go big or go home? Say a few reasons of why you love them in front of a large crowd, on tv, on the big screen at the theater or sporting event, to really make an impact on the person that loves to be in the spotlight. Is the person you love more recluse and private? Maybe going big and public isn’t something to do.

Have another fun way to express “I love you because” ideas? I’d love to hear them. Drop them in the comments below!

Good luck, have so much fun, and I can’t wait to hear how you’ve showered the person you love, with WHY you love them.

41 Open When Letter Ideas and FREE Printables

Open When Letters – Ideas for a boyfriend, best friend, husband, etc. or loved one, with a list of ideas of what to put in them and free printable cards!

Open when letters - ideas and free printable

I absolutely love creating printable cards, printable decor for home, and even creating birthday invitations, so these “Open When” Letters were right up my alley too!

Open When Letters

So what are open when letters? Well, if you are in a long-distance relationship, have a dear friend or relative far away, or if you find yourself away from your sweetheart longer than you'd like, creating a gift that allows you to speak to them when you are away is more than words can describe. I especially love the open when letters ideas as a birthday present for my husband.

Even though it’s hard to top the year that I kept a secret from him for a YEAR and surprised him for his 30th birthday with a trip to Mexico with friends… this heartfelt gift just keeps on giving all year!

See ALL of our gift ideas for the sweet person in your life! 

Open When Letters can be a sweet way to send a heartfelt message to your loved one when it's hard to find the right words to say, and they’re just super fun anyway to create and give!

How do Open When Letters Work?

Open when letters work just like a regular handwritten card.

However, the difference is that you give them instructions on the letter for when they are supposed to open them.

They can be specific such as an anniversary or a set date, or broad such as “when we're having a fight”.

You can be as creative as you want with these, and the more specific they are to your loved one, the better the experience will be.

Free Printables and Envelope Ideas

When I created my own, I wanted to make them so I could re-use the master copies for a friend, relative or even my husband again one day.

Then, when I made them, I remembered that I can’t keep a good thing to myself, so I wanted to share 4 different free printables with you so you can make your own! You find where to save them below.

Here’s how I made mine, and hopefully it will spark some ideas and help make your “open when” letter project a little easier!

Open when letters - how to make

How do you write open when letters?

I simply grabbed size A2 envelopes from Walmart, and I had NO idea until I picked up my Walmart grocery pick-up that it was a box of envelopes AND cards! BONUS! I thought it was just the envelopes. Woot! (You can grab a2 envelopes and cards on Amazon HERE if you prefer shopping there!)

However, for the letters that I’d be writing, I had already decided to use colorful paper that I already had on hand for the letters that I’ll put inside the envelopes, so I’ll save the blank cards for something else later.

But to make things super easy, you can totally use the cards that come with the envelopes! 

Cards for open when letters

Once I had everything that I needed to get started on the open when letters, it was time to print off the printable cards.

Blank “Open When” Cards

When creating the master printable card, I ALMOST typed in the “when” on each card, until I realized that I may like to switch things up sometimes and that not everyone has the same relationship and things to say to one another as I do to my husband.

So, I thought the blank space to write in exactly what you want it to say, would be the best bet.

Plus, I think the handwritten “when” on each card has more of a personal touch, and how sweet is that, right?

"Hey love" open when letters - free printables

Free Printable Open When Letter Cards – Four Options

I have included four different options in case you prefer one over the other.

“Hey Love,” in Pink or in Black

…for a boyfriend, husband, finance, etc.

SAVE the Pink “HEY LOVE” CARDS HERE

Pink Open When Card Printables

Save the Black “HEY LOVE” Open When Printable Cards Here!

Printable Open When Cards

and

“Hey You,”

…for a friend, sibling, relatives, etc.

Save the Pink “HEY YOU” Open When Printable CARDS HERE

Printable Open When Cards in Pink

Save the Black “HEY YOU” Open When Printable Cards HERE!

Printable Open When Cards in Black

This way, you can choose which of the above greetings works best for the person you’re sending them too!

Note: I’ve included a list of ideas below of what you can fill in the blanks with.

To Write:

For the hand-written portion on the free cards, I’m a sucker for a good gold metallic sharpie, and I thought it looked adorable paired with the coral border and font on the card.

(Perhaps I’m partial to these colors because of the colors I use in my logo here on the blog, but I digress.)

Open when letter ideas - for boyfriend, husband or friend

Cut.It.Out.

(Insert the impression of Joey from Full House here. Just me? Ok, sorry.)

Once the cards are cut out, they’re ready to glue on the front of each envelope!

Blank "open when" letter printables - free
Glue on the free open when download cards and put letters in the envelopes

Glue on to the front of each envelope:

I just grabbed a glue stick from my kid’s coloring cart and went to town. This worked amazingly well actually and I’d highly recommend it.

I did hesitate using the glue sticks that we had, because they were purple, but I was excited to see that it dries clear, so that made a big difference!

Open when free printable download
Write the open when letters to put in the envelopes

Write a little note for inside:

Once the cards are glued (or taped is fine too) on to the outside of the envelopes, it’s time to start writing your sweet love notes to go inside.

I kept mine short and sweet and sealed each letter into the coordinating envelope and it was ready to seal!

Open when cards - free download and ideas
Open when letters and ideas for boyfriend, husband, friend, sister, brother, military, etc.

Seal for the perfect time!

After you’ve inserted your little note into the envelope, it’s time to seal and it’s ready for them to open when needed!

Box/Bag Them Up!

Although you can give them to your loved one just like they are (or with a rubber band wrapped around all of them) I thought it would be a super cute touch to put them into a cute basket, box or bag.

I even love the idea of putting them in a decorated shoebox, recipe card box, or narrow plastic container with a lid, (almost like a library card file) so they can sort through them easily when they’re looking for the right one!

Here are a few fun ideas of what you can put the open when letters in. Just keep in mind you get a size that will work with the size of envelopes that you used!

The Ground Rules for Open-When Letters

Rules? Well that sounds pretty harsh, but let’s just say when you’re dealing with someone who wants to read them all RIGHT NOW, it may be best to give them some guidelines.

When you first give them this Open When Letters set, you want to start by having an “open first” letter to get the ball rolling.

This should include the "rules" of when to open the letters and how it works. You also want to make your letters in such a way that they won't open them all in one go. Try to space them out the best you can, and let life handle the rest!

Open When Letters - Ideas for a boyfriend, husband, best friend

Open When Letter Ideas and Topics:

Here are a few ideas to help you get the ball rolling, and with the “fill in the blank” free printable open when cards that I’m giving you, you have the freedom to choose which cards work best for you and your loved one! 

Feel free to fill in your own “open when’s” on the cards to really customize the experience!

Open when…

  • You first get this
  • You are having a good day
  • You can't fall asleep
  • You need a good laugh
  • You are upset
  • You are feeling lonely
  • You feel really far away
  • You need a reminder of how much I love you
  • You are worried
  • You could use a pep talk
  • It's your birthday
  • It's our anniversary
  • You miss me
  • You are mad at me
  • You feel bad about yourself
  • You need a hug
  • You are sick
  • You feel like giving up
  • You've made a mistake
  • You want a surprise
  • We've said goodbye
  • I'm angry
  • You need to make a big decision
  • I'm driving you crazy
  • Someone passes away
  • You're missing home
  • It's my birthday
  • You're stressed out
  • You're bored
  • You want to talk to me
  • We haven't been able to talk in a while
  • You don't feel loved in a while
  • It's Christmas Eve
  • It's New Year's Eve
  • It's Valentine's Day
  • It's [insert favorite holiday]
  • You're feeling nostalgic
  • You've forgotten what I smell like
  • You're nervous
  • You're embarrassed
  • You're thinking about the future

The Perfect Love Letter Ideas

Open When Letters can be a thoughtful and sweet way to show your spouse that you love them. Instead of trying to come up with the right words on the spot, prepare these letters ahead of time so you can say the right thing at just the right time.

Do you have a fun “open when” letter idea? I’d love to hear it below in the comments!

Apple Salad with Fruit

Apple Salad with Fruit: A quick dessert or side dish idea, full of fruit that easy to make for a potluck or to keep on hand for guests visiting.

Whether you’re looking for an apple salad dessert like this one, or if you’re looking for a lettuce salad that contains apples… then you’re in luck! Scroll down to get this dessert-like apple salad recipe, or visit the 25 apple salad recipes that I gathered for you that includes everything from lettuce salads with apples, to more dessert style apple salad recipes!

Then, if you’re feeling like a total salad fan right now, you’ll want to make sure that you visit the best salad recipes here on the blog, especially this honey lime fruit salad!

Apple Salad - Creamy yogurt, pudding dressing

Apple Salad

I’m a sucker for a dessert that’s full of chocolate, and I typically bypass pies, ice creams and fruit salads at any gathering I attend, but I must say… I fell in love with this dessert idea.

I’m also going to go out on a limb here and say that I’d even try to squeeze in this apple salad as a side dish idea.

Yes, it has pudding in it… but the fruit, nuts, and yogurt are sometimes side items, right?

Ok, we’ll call it a dessert, but just know that if you come over for a visit, you may find this on the table during dinner time, too.

apple salad recipe - ingredients

Apple Salad Ingredients

You can find the full recipe and instructions at the end of this post, but I wanted to go into a little more detail about what you can use and substitute if you don’t have these on hand.

For this recipe, it really is forgiving and can be made a lot of different ways. 

Yogurt + Pudding

For mine, I wanted to use vanilla yogurt AND vanilla pudding. You can use all yogurt or all pudding if you like, but if you have both on hand, mixing the two creates a crazy good flavor.

Although I made my pudding from an instant pudding box, you can keep things super quick and easy and buy vanilla pudding already made!

Nuts + Fruit

Feel free to switch out the different nuts depending on your preference, but I used candied pecans and dried cranberries, because they come in a package together at Walmart, making it super easy.

Then, I also used red grapes for a soft texture, and it was the perfect addition!

Cut and core apples for apple salad

Core + Cut Apples

Of course you can cut your apples using a knife, but I absolutely love using an apple corer. It makes things that much faster, and less chances for seeds to end up in my apple salad.

For this salad, I still use a knife to cut them in to cubes, but it still speeds up the process for sure!

Cut and cube apples for apple salad
apple salad - grapes, red and green apples
Dried cranberries and candied nuts in an apple salad

Once the apples, cranberries + nuts and grapes are in the bowl, it’s time to add in the yogurt and pudding.

(You can mix up the pudding and yogurt first and add it in, or you can do what I did and add them in separately. It all mixes in well regardless.)

apple salad - yogurt and pudding dressing
apple salad recipe - yogurt and pudding dressing
Mix together ingredients for apple salad

Once it’s all mixed together, you can serve it immediately or store for later.

I prefer to eat it immediately, but it’s good leftover too!

Apple salad - creamy yogurt and pudding dressing

I hope you enjoy this recipe! Make sure to check out the other easy salad recipes to add to your favorites!

apple salad - dessert or side dish with a sweet creamy dressing

Or, go all in and make dinner time super easy and grab my cookbook where I’ve created complete meal plans for you! Find more details about the Fabulously Fast Dinners cookbook!

Recipe

Apple salad with pudding.
Print Pin
4.77 from 26 votes

Apple Salad – Creamy Yogurt + Pudding Dressing

This Apple Salad with a Creamy Yogurt & Pudding Dressing is a quick dessert full of fruit that’s easy to make for a potluck or to keep on hand for guests visiting.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 131kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 5 apples, green/red
  • ½ cup dried cranberries and candied pecans
  • 1 cup red grapes
  • 1 cup vanilla yogurt
  • 1 cup vanilla pudding

Instructions

  • Core and cut apples into small cubes
  • Slice grapes in half.
  • Place apples, cranberries, candied pecans and grapes in large bowl.
  • Add in yogurt and pudding.
  • Stir to combine
  • Serve when the dressing is equally distributed, and refrigerate any leftovers!

Notes

Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (½ cup) | Calories: 131kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 39mg | Potassium: 224mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 26g | Vitamin A: 85IU | Vitamin C: 6.1mg | Calcium: 61mg | Iron: 0.3mg

Our School Lunch Routine: Packing Lunches

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of The J.M. Smucker Company. The opinions and text are all mine.

Our school lunch routine is full of easy lunch ideas that are fun and that make fixing a school lunch a breeze and something my kiddo actually looks forward to!

School lunch ideas - pb&j

Our School Lunch Routine

I will always remember the nostalgia feels of taking a Jif® Peanut Butter and Smucker's® Strawberry Jam sandwich in my lunchbox as a kid. So, as a mom, as we parents tend to do… I love sharing parts of my childhood with my own kids, and these brands are now a part of my kiddo’s childhood! Besides, those brands are just better together, aren’t they?

Jif and Smuckers peanut butter and jelly sandwich - how to make one

When my oldest started kindergarten last year, there was a whole new “normal” to get used to with packing lunches, having to be somewhere on time and so many more new norms.

My son tends to be a picky eater, although I’m lucky that he’s picky in a “good” way; he’ll eat foods that a lot of other kids won’t even look at.

Put green beans and french fries in front of him, and he’ll choose the green beans any day! 

But if you ask him what his favorite thing to eat is… he’ll choose a pb&j, all the way. He’s totally my child.

Peanut Butter and Jelly on Rotation

So as you can imagine, as a busy mom and with it being one of his favorites, there are peanut butter and jelly sandwiches showing up in his lunch box during the school year, OFTEN. I keep it easy and stick to the best, by picking up Jif Peanut Butter and Smucker's Strawberry Jam at Walmart and have it rotating on my grocery shopping list.

How to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich - Use a spoon

Most days I’ll make him the nostalgic pb&j, but some days I’ll surprise him with a little extra, and add fun toppings to his sandwich.

Marshmallow PB&J

His favorite pb&j creation (and mine too)? Adding marshmallows to his sandwich! It’s a fun addition to an already delish sandwich, and it totally “makes” his day, come lunchtime at school.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich with Marshmallows

Simply make a peanut butter and jelly (don’t forget to use the back of a spoon so it doesn’t rip the bread) and toss on a few marshmallows! Don’t forget to throw in a few extra just for the heck of it! 

School lunch sandwich ideas

“Side Dishes” for School Lunch

After I’ve packed his “main dish” (which is usually a sandwich, protein or bigger food item), I fill his lunch box with “sides” or “extras.”

Things like veggies, string cheese, crackers, fruit, yogurt, and nuts are usually my go-to’s for this. To save on bags, I typically try and pack as many of these items together in one small baggie.

Lunch Box Hacks + Tricks

There are a few things that I do to help streamline packing a lunch, or to make things easy for both of us. Here are my favorites.

Getting in the Habit

Once he gets home from school, my son knows that the first thing he is to do is clean out his backpack and put the ice pack in the freezer so it’s ready for the morning.

I’ve really noticed by keeping this routine, it helps us both out. He knows what he’s supposed to do, and no one is left guessing where things are, causing unnecessary chaos the next morning.

Forget the Ice Pack. On Purpose.

I was really worried at the start of my son’s kindergarten year, that he wouldn’t realize that he needed to bring the ice pack back home with him every day and toss it in the trash at lunchtime instead. He actually did really well, but I did find that he absolutely loved when I traded out the ice pack for frozen items that he could eat/drink instead! For instance doing things like:

  • Freezing the yogurt that comes in the plastic, squeezable pouches
  • Frozen fruit like blueberries, strawberries, cantaloupe, grapes
  • Bottle of water – heads up, if your little one has an early lunch, the water may not thaw enough by lunchtime, and he/she may not be able to drink most of it! I also open the bottle and close it back, so it’s not too difficult for him to open.

These are great ways to keep things cold in his lunch, and leaves him with a much lighter lunch box to carry around at the end of the day, rather than a heavy, ice pack filled, lunch box.

Paper Sack Friday’s

Brown Paper Sack Lunch

Speaking of a lighter lunch box. On Fridays, I get in to the habit of sending him with just a brown paper sack lunch. Now, he adores his cartoon-themed lunch box that we bought for him, so we do this all week, but switch things up on Fridays. He adores being able to toss the entire “lunch box” into the trash, and not have any responsibility of hanging on to something for the remainder of the day.

I’ve found that it’s a win-win for me too because on Fridays, my little guy is exhausted from the busy week, so the less he’s having to remember…the better!

“Cool Mom”… Not Really

You probably wouldn’t believe how often I hear

“Mom, my friends don’t have to eat vegetables at lunch; why do I?”

But no matter how often I hear it, I still send some type of veggie in his lunch box. Raw veggies are easy to pack and something he can munch on quickly, leaving me feeling better about what he’s eating away from home. I like to send:

  • Carrot sticks
  • Celery
  • Broccoli

And if you’re finding yourself struggling with getting your kids to actually eat them, wait until I tell you what I do about this, below when it comes to dessert.

Redeeming my Cool Mom Points

Although I’m not on my game every day, I DO love sending him surprise notes in his lunch box at least a few times a week. He’s just starting to learn to read, so I have to keep them short and sweet, but he said he loves it when I send a message along with his lunch, ESPECIALLY when I draw something on them.

Now, I did have to learn to reel back my sappy love notes, because they embarrassed him. So instead of “I love you's" and “you’re so cute” messages, I gravitated towards messages more like:

  • You’re super!
  • We’re going to the park after school!
  • Thank you for being a great guy!
School Lunch Box Note

Dessert? Possibly.

My son looks forward to his dessert or sweet treat in his lunch box each day. However, it’s not an automatic item that just appears in his lunch box. He knows that if he doesn’t eat the veggies that I pack for him each day, he won’t have dessert or a sweet treat in his lunch box the next.

I get it, you’re thinking

“Jessica, you’re telling me that you don’t believe your kiddo is throwing his veggies in the trash at school and just telling you he’s eating it?”

Well, my oldest can’t lie to save his life. I can tell from a mile away if he’s stretching the truth, and he really is the best about admitting the truth, even when he knows the outcome that may come with it. So at this stage in his early life, this dessert trick is working for me.

Now my youngest? Well, we won’t be able to implement this little trick with him. He’s a whole different story, and I’ll have to come up with all sorts of trickery when it comes to his veggies in his lunch box next year.

What are YOUR Lunch Box Packing Tips?

With my oldest only going into first grade, I have a lot of lunch box packing years ahead. So send your ideas and tricks to me! I’d love to learn more!

Don’t forget to add Jif Peanut Butter and Smucker's Strawberry Jam to your Walmart store list, to be ready for school lunches this year! They can be your go-to brands for back to school season!

PB&J with marshmallows a fun school lunch idea

Instant Pot Pot Roast

Instant Pot Pot Roast: An easy dump-and-cook recipe in the pressure cooker, using chuck roast or arm roast. It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner, much like our beef stew recipe, which also uses chuck roast!

Instant Pot Pot Roast

For years I’ve cooked roasts in the slow cooker but knew that once I had an Instant Pot, the way that I cook a roast may change forever. And with the juiciness, quickness, and deliciousness that came out of this cooking process… I think it did just change forever.

Did you just buy an Instant Pot? See the video from when I unboxed mine and learned how to use it to get a helpful walk-through.

Today I’m sharing this crazy good pot roast recipe with you that I came up with the other day for an easy dinner recipe.

Instant Pot Pot Roast Ingredients - How to Make pot roast

Pot Roast Ingredients

You can definitely make this recipe using a roast that isn’t frozen, and I’ve given those cooking times for it below as well.

Now, for this recipe, you can use just about any beef roast, and honestly… using this recipe for other types of meat should be pretty tasty too! Types of meat like:

  • Chicken
  • Deer
  • Pork

Other Ingredients:

In this recipe, the Italian dressing, ranch seasoning, butter, salt, and stock, create a delicious blend of juices that can be turned in to a gravy to serve on top of the roast and/or other side dishes.

Tip: To help pull the roast out of the instant pot when it’s finished cooking, you may want to use the trivet, and put that in the bottom before you add all of the ingredients. This way the roast can be pulled out much easier than trying to pull it out and having it all fall apart because it’s SOOO tender!

Pot Roast Recipe Butter, italian seasoning, ranch dressing mix, butter, broth

How to Make Roast in the Instant Pot

What I REALLY love about this recipe, (and almost all Instant Pot recipes) is that the ingredients can all be put in at once, and the Instant Pot is going to do the rest for you. No babysitting, no stirring, no nothing.

Unless you want gravy, and then there’s another little step, but with very little work.

Pot Roast

Pot Roast Cook Time

For a frozen, 3lb roast, pressure the roast and ingredients on “high” pressure for 90 minutes.

If it isn’t frozen, the roast should be fully cooked at around 45-50 minutes. (Making sure your roast reaches and the internal temperature of 145 degrees.)

Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release its pressure.

Instant Pot Pot Roast Recipe

Now after you’ve grabbed a bite of that roast and have soaked in the juicy flavor, it’s time to make the gravy. But only if you want to!

Feel free to serve up this roast just as it is, or to serve with additional condiments like:

  • ketchup (a kid favorite)
  • horseradish (a mom and dad favorite)
  • A-1
  • garlic butter
  • blue cheese or ranch dressing
Pot Roast

Pot Roast Gravy

If you’re not a fan of using the juices from the cooking process, using a gravy packet or making your own homemade gravy is great too!

But if you ARE a fan of using the juices to create a gravy, you’ll need:

  • cold water
  • flour

This will thicken it to give it the gravy consistency!

In a small bowl, mix equal amounts of cold water and flour and combine. (I used 3 tablespoons of each.)

Note: You may need more/less depending on the amount of juices you have, or how thick/thin you prefer your gravy.

Add Flour-Water Mixture to Drippings:

On the Instant Pot, turn on “saute” and once the juices are heated through, and almost to a boil. (This shouldn’t take long since the roast just finished cooking.)

Slowly add water/flour mixture while stirring.

Stir until thickened to gravy and shut off Instant Pot so the gravy does not burn/scorch.

Instant Pot Pot Roast

Salads to Serve with Pot Roast:

If you need a side dish to serve with your Instant Pot Pot Roast, here are my favorite salads to serve alongside!

Best Side Salad Recipe

Other Recipes You’ll Love:

The recipes you’ll find here on the blog are always easy to make and use everyday ingredients. Cooking doesn’t have to be difficult to be delicious. If you’re a fan of pot roast recipes, I think you’re also going to love this Dutch oven pot roast!

Or, if you want to keep the Instant Pot recipes theme going, this Instant Pot Polenta is ranking right up there these days. Plus, this Instant Pot Pork Butt is easy to make and perfect to eat on like this roast for a few days.

Here are a few other recipes you’ll love if you love this one…

Recipe

Print Pin
4.75 from 189 votes

Instant Pot Pot Roast

Instant Pot Pot Roast: An easy dump and cook recipe in the pressure cooker, using chuck roast, or arm roast.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 32 minutes
Servings 5 servings
Calories 903kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • Pressure Cooker

Ingredients

  • 3 lb. frozen beef roast if thawed, reduce cook time
  • 1 cup broth beef, chicken, or veggie will work!
  • 1 packet ranch dressing or dips seasoning mix
  • 16 oz bottle of Italian dressing
  • 1 stick butter stick
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

Optional Gravy

  • 3 tablespoon cold water
  • 3 tablespoon flour
  • juices from roast drippings

Instructions

  • Place the trivet inside of the inner pot, and pour broth in to pressure cooker pot, add roast and top with dressing, seasonings and stick of butter.
  • Place lid on and cook on high pressure for 90 minutes. 
    Reduce the cook time if roast is thawed, for around 45-50 minutes.
  • Naturally release the pressure.
  • Remove meat, and place on to platter or serving dish.

If making gravy:

  • In a small bowl, mix together cold water and flour. Stir until there are no lumps.
  • Leave juices in the pot and turn the “saute” setting on. 
  • Once meat juices are heated through and almost boiling (don't forget to stir so it doesn't burn) slowly add in and stir in the flour and water mixture.
  • Stir and cook until juices thicken to a gravy. 
    If it does not thicken to a gravy after a couple of minutes, try adding more of a flour mixture. You could have more juices than I did.

Video

Notes

You can also make this recipe if you do not have a frozen roast. If your roast is thawed, cook for only 45-50 minutes instead!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 903kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 68g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Cholesterol: 236mg | Sodium: 1891mg | Potassium: 979mg | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 735IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 6.1mg

Oreo Nutella Cheesecake

Oreo Nutella Cheesecake – This homemade, no-bake, smooth, Nutella cheesecake filling on top of a buttery Oreo cookie crust, is an easy dessert that you can make ahead of time, similar to how we make this Oreo Mousse recipe.

Slice of Oreo Nutella Cheesecake on a spatula with whole cheesecake in the background.

Post originally published in 2018 – Updated in January 2023

If you love chocolate desserts, you’re going to love all of the chocolate recipes in our dessert recipe archives... especially these Nutella sugar cookies and this chocolate cream cheese pie.)

This no bake nutella cheesecake is no exception and is a delicious recipe (and similar to a no-bake pie recipe) that is the perfect dessert when you’re looking for something that’s chocolatey, easy, and especially, that can be made in advance.

It’s fantastic during the summer months since it’s a chilled dessert, and it uses simple ingredients, much like this no bake chocolate pie recipe.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

⭐️ Why This Recipe Works

  • It uses a few, simple ingredients: Using only 7 ingredients, that are easy to get at any grocery store, or that you may even already have on-hand, this Oreo and Nutella cheesecake recipe comes together perfectly, with little effort.
  • Make-ahead recipe: It’s best to let this cheesecake chill for at least 5 hours (or longer if needed) before serving so making it in advance is not only required, it’s a bonus for those busy days when you need a dessert.
  • Double Chocolate: With the crunch Oreo crust, it pairs so well with the smooth, creamy, chocolate filling, giving it a double chocolate flavor in each bite.

🧾 Ingredients Needed

I’ve highlighted a couple of ingredients with some relevant notes. Aside from this, the ingredients needed are pretty basic.

Labeled ingredients for Oreo Nutella cheesecake.
  • Oreo Crumbs: Make sure your crumbs are fine crumbs. You can achieve this with a food processor or even by placing the whole cookies in a plastic, sealable bag, and mashing the cookies with a rolling pin.
  • Nutella: Off-brand chocolate hazelnut spread works just as well in this recipe and is a great way to save some money.
  • Heavy Cream: The heavy cream helps make the cheesecake smooth and velvety. The smoother your cheesecake is, the easier it will be to slice.
  • Cream Cheese: You will want to use full-fat cream cheese for this recipe as low-fat or other versions can cause it to have a different texture.

📖 Substitutions

If you find that you need to substitute any of the ingredients, here are some suggestions that you may find helpful:

  • Crust – This cheesecake also goes great with a graham cracker crust or a Biscoff crust recipe. Simply use the same amount of crushed graham crackers as the Oreo base as instructed.
  • Nutella – Although we haven’t tried this for this specific recipe, you could try using peanut butter instead of Nutella. However, then it would be a lot like this no bake peanut butter pie but with an Oreo crust.

🍳 Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need a 9-inch springform pan to be able to slice and serve this cheesecake for the best results.

👩🏻‍🍳 How to Make this Nutella Cheesecake Recipe

The steps are incredibly simple to make this no bake cheesecake.

This creamy cheesecake is broken into 3 components:

  • Oreo crust
  • Creamy Nutella filling
  • Chilling for at least 5 hours (24 hours will guarantee a “set” cheesecake, in case your freezer is different than mine.)

I suggest planning ahead well, knowing that this cheesecake needs to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours.

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

First, you’ll begin by making the crust that will be pressed down in to a springform pan.

Crushed Oreos and butter in a mixing bowl.
Image 1
Crushed Oreos and butter mixed in a glass bowl, creating the Oreo crust.
Image 2

STEP 1. Combine Oreos and butter. Use a fork to stir together the crushed Oreo crumbs (these should be in fine crumbs) and the melted butter in a medium-sized bowl. Once the ingredients form a wet, sandy mixture, press the mixture into a standard 9-inch springform pan (Images 1 & 2).

Cream cheese, vanilla, and sugar for cheesecake filling in clear, glass bowl.
Image 3
Nutella added in to bowl with cream cheese, vanilla and sugar.
Image 4

STEP 2. Whip cream cheese. In a separate medium-sized bowl, use an electric hand mixer to whip the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy.

STEP 3. Create cheesecake filling. Combine cream cheese with granulated sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Use the electric mixer to incorporate the added ingredients to the cream cheese until the mixture is homogenous (Image 3).

Tip: It is important to make sure that the mixture is completely blended before you pour it into the springform pan.  Any lumps of cream cheese that are left in the mixture will float to the top of the mixture before it finishes setting.

Nutella mixed in with cream cheese, sugar and vanilla to create the cheesecake filling.
Image 5
Nutella cheesecake filling in springform pan.
Image 6

STEP 4. Mix Nutella in. Whisk in the Nutella until no clumps of Nutella remain in the cream cheese mixture (Image 5).

STEP 5. Top crust with filling. Pour the cream cheese mixture into the springform pan and cover it with plastic wrap. Allow the cheesecake to sit in the freezer for at least 5 hours, and even 24 hours is recommended so there’s no doubt it will be fully set (Image 6).

Chilled Oreo Nutella cheesecake on a cake stand.

STEP 6. Serve and enjoy! Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator, cut a slice, and enjoy!

Slice of Oreo Nutella cheesecake on a white plate, next to entire cheesecake.

💭 Recipe Pro Tips

  • For a smooth cheesecake. The heavy cream helps make the cheesecake smooth and velvety. The smoother your cheesecake is, the easier it will be to slice.
  • Clean slicing. Using a sharp chef’s knife, soak the blade in hot water before slicing. Dry the knife off (while the blade is still warm) and then slice the cheesecake. This will help cut a clean slice. Place back in hot water before slicing the next piece.
  • Toppings. Although we love this cheesecake just the way it is, you can add your favorites to the top of the cheesecake with dollops of whipped cream or Cool Whip, mini chocolate chips, caramel or chocolate drizzle, and even crushed Oreos.
A closeup of a bite of Oreo Nutella cheesecake on a fork.

📋 Recipe FAQs

Should you bake the crust of a no-bake cheesecake?

Nope! That’s the beauty of this no-bake recipe; even the crust doesn’t have to be baked.

Why is my No-Bake Cheesecake gooey?

It’s possible that the cheesecake may not have chilled enough. Place it in the freezer to allow it to “set” and see if that helps.

How do you store no-bake Nutella cheesecake?

You can store this cheesecake in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

Can you freeze Nutella cheesecake?

Yes! You can freeze this cheesecake for up to 3 months. After 3 months it can start to develop freezer burn.

Love Nutella? These Nutella brownies will be a hit!

🍰 More No-Bake Recipes

If you love easy no bake desserts, and especially no-bake cheesecakes, you’ll love these too:

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

Recipe

Slice of Oreo Nutella Cheesecake on spatula.
Print Pin
5 from 4 votes

Oreo Nutella Cheesecake

Oreo Nutella Cheesecake – This homemade, smooth, Nutella cheesecake filling that's on top of a buttery Oreo crust, is an easy dessert that you can make ahead of time!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Refrigerate 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 660kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • 9 Inch Springform pan

Ingredients

  • 2 cups crushed Oreos
  • ¼ cup salted butter melted
  • 16 ounces cream cheese 2 – 8 oz. boxes
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup Nutella

Instructions

  • Use a fork to stir together the crushed Oreos and the melted butter in a medium sized bowl. Once the ingredients form a wet, sandy mixture, press the mixture into a standard 9-inch springform pan.
  • In a separate medium sized bowl, use an electric hand mixer to whip the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy.
  • Add the granulated sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Use the electric hand mixer to incorporate the added ingredients to the cream cheese until the mixture is homogenous.
  • Whisk in the Nutella until no clumps of Nutella remain in the cream cheese mixture.
  • Pour the cream cheese mixture into the springform pan and cover with plastic wrap. Allow the cheesecake to sit in the freezer for at least 5 hours. (Some freezers may require longer, and it may even be safe to freeze it for 24 hours, to guarantee it will set.
  • Slice and enjoy!

Notes

Tip: It is important to make sure that the cream cheese and Nutella mixture is completely blended before you pour it into the springform pan.  Any lumps of cream cheese that are left in the mixture will float to the top of the mixture before it finishes setting.
** See the blog post for more tips and ideas on how to make this no-bake cheesecake an even bigger success!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (⅛ recipe) | Calories: 660kcal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 26g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 89mg | Sodium: 391mg | Potassium: 262mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 48g | Vitamin A: 1159IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 95mg | Iron: 6mg

13 Boneless Chicken Breast Recipes

13 Boneless Chicken Breast Recipes: Easy chicken breast recipes that you can make for dinner, that the family will love!

Image collage of chicken breast recipes.

Alright friends, chicken breast recipes always seem to be a quick go-to dinner idea when it comes time to decide on what to have for dinner around our house. Chicken breasts tend to always be “in-stock” in my deep freezer, so I know when we’re falling short on groceries, it’s a safe bet.

TIPS: If you have time and want to add some extra flavor to your chicken, this easy chicken brine has become our “go-to” for almost all chicken recipes! Or, make shredded chicken in the crock pot in advance and freeze it for quick meal planning!

Just select the link below each image for the full recipe! Happy chicken cooking!

Chicken Club Sandwich

With a delicious chicken breast, whether that’s one that you make yourself or that you cut off of a rotisserie chicken, a chicken club sandwich will hit the spot!

Chicken club sandwich cut in to wedges, on a white plate.

Chicken Caesar Sandwiches

Chicken breasts cooked in the crock pot, then shredded and tossed in a Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese, and piled on a hamburger bun make these Chicken Caesar Sandwiches easy, and full of flavor.

Chicken Caesar sandwich built and sitting on plate.

Chicken Grilled Cheese

Although you can use something as simple as canned chicken or a rotisserie chicken for this delicious, cheesy chicken grilled cheese, making a batch of chicken breasts for that sandwich is my favorite!

Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Chicken Grilled Cheese

Crispy Chicken Burger

A fried, crispy chicken burger is a favorite at so many fast food restaurants but now you can make it at home!

Crispy Chicken Burger

Get the recipe: Crispy Chicken Burger

Chicken Salad Recipe

A delicious chicken salad, made from diced chicken breasts creates a great lunch idea of a light dinner recipe!

Chicken salad with grapes and apples on slider buns.

Get the recipe: Chicken Salad Recipe

Baked Chicken Cutlets

I’m going to go ahead and say that this probably IS the best, baked chicken recipe out there.

Sliced crispy chicken cutlet piece on fork, holding up above plate.

Get the recipe here: Baked Chicken Cutlets

Jalapeno Chicken

A bit of spice, with creamy cheeses, this jalapeno chicken recipe is made in the slow cooker and is really easy to make!

Cheese melted and bacon and jalapenos on top of chicken in slow cooker.

Get the recipe: Jalapeno Chicken

Creamy Caesar Chicken

If you love Caesar salad, this Caesar Baked Chicken uses chicken breasts and is an easy dinner recipe!

Creamy Caesar chicken on pasta.

Get the recipe: Creamy Caesar Chicken

Chicken Caprese Sandwich

If you love caprese salads, why not have it in chicken-form on a sandwich? The delicious blend of flavors makes this a top-notch dinner recipe!

Close up of caprese chicken sandwich.

Get the recipe: Caprese Chicken Sandwich

Cheesy Chicken Recipe

Delicious flavors of cheese, tender chicken, and a few other ingredients make this an easy dinner recipe!

Cooked cheesy chicken on white plate.

Get this cheesy chicken recipe!

What’s Your Favorite Boneless Chicken Breast Recipe?

So I’ve only included 13 chicken recipes here, but I know there are TONS more out there. Have you found one that you love? I’d love to hear about it, and add it to my Fantabulous Main Dishes, Pinterest board. You know… so I can have every intention of using it later, only to get distracted with how to makeover my guest bathroom in the process.

Looking For More Easy Recipes?

If you’re here for the first time, then you’re going to love this. I only create and share EASY, slightly homemade recipes that can be made in a flash, using everyday ingredients. Go ahead, get lost in all of our easy recipes here on the blog, to add to your recipe Rolodex!

Creamy Crunchy Cucumber Salad Recipe

This Creamy Crunchy Cucumber Salad Recipe is light and delicious, and perfect for summer parties, and makes the most of fresh ingredients and can be made ahead of time so it’s ready to go when you are.

To go right along with the salad recipes theme we’ve been having around here lately, this cucumber salad recipe will be one to add to your list! Also love a tangy, vinegary cucumber salad? This Italian cucumber salad recipe is one to try too!

This creamy crunchy cucumber salad recipe is perfect for a summer dinner party side dish.

A Delicious Summer Side Dish

Hi guys! It’s Chris here, founder of Celebrations At Home blog, where you’ll find inspiration for stylish entertaining, party ideas, and recipes & diy’s to pull it all together.

Today I’m sharing a delicious summer side dish that will put that fresh produce to good use.

This creamy crunchy cucumber salad recipe is cool and refreshing and perfect for those warm nights. It’s a terrific dish to take to a potluck party or BBQ cookouts.

But let’s not forget about all-year long meals… this would also work as the perfect side dish for steak or even this Baked Salmon in Foil!

This creamy salad also lends itself well as a cooling side dish to spicy foods like Indian cuisine. It’s reminiscent of tzatziki sauce (or Benedictine for my Southern friends) so it pairs well with Greek food too. With all these options there’s no excuse not to make this salad!

Pro Tip: To keep the creamy cucumber salad chilled during a party, fill a large bowl with ice and nestle the serving bowl on top of it.

This creamy crunchy cucumber salad is a delicious side dish for potluck parties.

Creamy Cucumber Salad Recipe

I love the flavor of fresh vegetables in the summertime. If you’ve planted a garden and have cucumbers and/or radishes to pick, by all means make this salad. If you’ve planted dill then you get bonus points!

Prepare the Cucumbers

The first thing you’ll need to do is prepare your cucumbers. If you don’t drain the moisture from them with this first step, your salad will get very “liquid-y” after about a day. If you’re going to be eating the creamy cucumber salad right away it’s not that big of a deal; but if you’re hoping to have leftovers or taking it to a potluck party you’ll want to do this step.

All you have to do is slice your cucumbers as directed and sprinkle with salt. Toss them together in a bowl and set aside for about 30 minutes. When ready, you’ll drain the liquid and press the cucumbers dry with a paper towel and you’re ready to go.

Make this creamy crunchy cucumber salad recipe for all your summer parties.

Fresh Vegetable Salad Recipe

While the cucumbers are set aside you can slice your radishes and prepare the creamy dressing.

Once you’ve prepared your dressing and drained the cucumbers, you can mix everything together, cover and refrigerate for at least an hour so the flavors can fully combine. The marriage of cucumbers, cream sauce, and dill are classic and delicious. The addition of the radishes gives extra crunch which I particularly love.

Perfect BBQ Side Dish Recipe

If you want to add variety to your barbecue party, add this fresh and creamy cucumber salad recipe to the table. It’s a nice addition to other classic sides like pasta and potato salad. It goes so well with main dishes like these blue cheese burgers, chicken, this easy steak recipe, or plank grilled salmon.

This creamy crunchy cucumber salad recipe is the perfect summer side dish for grilling and summer barbecues.

Looking For More Easy Recipes?

For more great recipes to add to your weeknight dinner or potluck party lineup, check out more easy side dish recipes!

Recipe

creamy cucumber crunch salad recipe
Print Pin
5 from 5 votes

Creamy Cucumber Crunch Salad Recipe

This Creamy Crunchy Cucumber Salad Recipe is light and delicious, and perfect for summer parties, and makes the most of fresh ingredients!
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 57kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 2 large cucumbers
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 5 radishes
  • 4 ounces plain yogurt
  • ¼ cup light sour cream
  • ¼ cup fresh dill
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ⅛ teaspoon pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • Slice cucumber into thin slices and place in a bowl with ½ teaspoon of salt. Set aside for 30 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, combine yogurt, sour cream, dill, lime juice, pepper, garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt together in medium-sized bowl.
  • Slice radishes very thin and add to yogurt mixture.
  • Drain cucumbers and press dry with a paper towel; add to radishes and yogurt mixture, and toss until evenly combined.
  • Cover and chill for at least an hour. 
  • Makes 4-6 servings.

Notes

Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (about ½ cup) | Calories: 57kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 465mg | Potassium: 298mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 405IU | Vitamin C: 8.8mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 0.5mg

Pasta with Corn and Tomatoes

In under 30 minutes, this summer pasta recipe is an easy summer recipe to put together and uses delicious ingredients from the garden (or summer vegetables from the grocery store) to create summer flavors in a comfort food dish that everyone will love!

Similar to this one, our macaroni and tomatoes recipe is easy to make and is a southern classic.

Pasta with corn and tomato sauce is the PERFECT summer pasta recipe!

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

  • This recipe uses simple ingredients and it’s a great way to use those summer vegetables in a comfort food dish that’s not too heavy.
  • It’s ready in under 30 minutes so you’re not stuck in the kitchen for a lot of hours and can be made quickly after spending all day outside!
  • This recipe is lighter, compared to a fall or winter pasta recipe, such as this creamy pasta recipe made with cream cheese!
Mmm! Fettuccine with Corn and Tomatoes. This is a great bbq side dish recipe and perfect if you're looking for vegetarian pasta recipes

Recipe Ingredients:

  • extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic smashed
  • pinch crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes cut in half
  • 1-½ cups chicken or vegetable stock
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 ears corn, kernels cut off the cob
  • 1 box fettuccine
  • ½ cup grated parmigiano reggiano
  • 6 basil leaves, chopped

Fettuccine with Corn and Tomatoes Recipe

Although you can use any kind of pasta for this recipe, our favorite is to the use fettuccine. However feel free to substitute for other pasta that you have on hand.

This is an easy summer pasta recipe that is SOOOO full of flavor!

Summer Pasta Sauce

Since this is a light summer recipe, a light summer pasta sauce is key! This sauce is made up of herbs and oils, rather than a hearty tomatoes sauce like so many others call for.

Vegetarian Pasta

Using vegetables like corn and tomatoes in this pasta adds the texture this pasta needs without adding meat.

However if you’d like to add diced chicken or another protein like salmon or this broiled steak recipe, may be delicious as well!

Sweet Corn Pasta Recipe - This recipe is perfect as a side dish or main dish!

Step by Step Directions:

  • Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil.
  • Coat a large saute pan with olive oil and add the garlic and the crushed red pepper.  
  • Bring the pan to a medium-high heat. When the garlic has turned a golden brown color, remove it and discard.
  • Add the prepared grape tomatoes and half the stock and season with salt. Simmer the pan until the tomatoes have wilted and let off their juices.
  • Add the corn and the remaining stock and simmer until the corn is cooked through.
  • While the corn is cooking add the pasta to the pot of salted boiling water. Cook the pasta until the water comes back to a rolling boil plus 1 minute.  
  • Remove the pasta from the water and add it to the saute pan with the tomatoes and corn. 
  • Add about a half a cup of the pasta cooking water and cook until the water has evaporated and the sauce clings to the pasta.  
  • Remove the pan from the heat. 
  • Toss in the parmigiano reggiano, basil and a big drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Stir or toss the pasta vigorously. Parmigiano reggiano is a great cheese that adds saltiness and a nutty flavor. I recommend buying a block of the cheese and grate it yourself because it tastes so much better.
Easy Summer Side Dishes - This is perfect for a bbq or even a warm weeknight side dish for the family!

Perfect BBQ Side Dish Recipe

This would be an amazing side dish for a bbq or potluck for summer. It’s quick and easy and transfers well! It’s even delicious if it’s not piping hot which works out wonderful for outdoor get-togethers.

Simple Pasta Recipes - This summer corn and tomato fettuccine is perfect!

Recipe

Pasta with corn and tomato sauce is the PERFECT summer pasta recipe!
Print Pin
4.50 from 2 votes

Fettuccine with Corn and Tomatoes Recipe

In under 30 minutes, this summer pasta recipe is easy to put together and uses delicious ingredients from the garden (or summer vegetables from the grocery store) to create summer flavors in a comfort food dish that everyone will love!
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 538kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic smashed
  • pinch crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes cut in half
  • 1-½ cups chicken or vegetable stock
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 ears corn, kernels cut off the cob
  • 1 box fettuccine
  • ½ cup grated parmigiano reggiano
  • 6 basil leaves chiffonade

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil.
  • Coat a large saute pan with olive oil and add the garlic and the crushed red pepper.  
  • Bring the pan to a medium-high heat. When the garlic has turned a golden brown color, remove it and discard.
  • Add the prepared grape tomatoes and half the stock and season with salt. Simmer the pan until the tomatoes have wilted and let off their juices.
  • Add the corn and the remaining stock and simmer until the corn is cooked through.
  • While the corn is cooking add the pasta to the pot of salted boiling water. Cook the pasta until the water comes back to a rolling boil plus 1 minute.  
  • Remove the pasta from the water and add it to the saute pan with the tomatoes and corn. 
  • Add about a half a cup of the pasta cooking water and cook until the water has evaporated and the sauce clings to the pasta.  
  • Remove the pan from the heat. 
  • Toss in the parmigiano reggiano, basil and a big drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Stir or toss the pasta vigorously. 

Notes

Parmigiano reggiano is a great cheese that adds saltiness and a nutty flavor. I recommend buying a block of the cheese and grate it yourself because it tastes so much better.
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1.5cups | Calories: 538kcal | Carbohydrates: 89g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 105mg | Sodium: 366mg | Potassium: 647mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 780IU | Vitamin C: 27.6mg | Calcium: 207mg | Iron: 3.2mg

Cauliflower Potato Salad – Easy Low Carb Recipe

Cauliflower Potato Salad: Easy low carb recipe that’s a cauliflower salad that you’ll want to make for that barbecue this summer, or even during the week for a side dish recipe on a low carb or keto diet!

I just knew when we were on a salad recipes kick around here, that this faux potato salad would fit in perfectly with our red-skinned potato salad and Amish potato salad.

Cauliflower Potato Salad Recipe - An easy low carb recipe with vegetables!

Low Carb Cauliflower Potato Salad

Cookout season is here! And no cookout is complete without hot dogs, corn on the cob, watermelon, and potato salad!

However, for those of us trying to keep the carbs under control this summer, or at least save them for the cocktails and beers, the potato salad may be a dish we are tempted to bypass.

Who wants to do that though? It's definitely easier said than done to skip this cookout classic. This cold, creamy delight, is the perfect tangy side dish to pair with a savory hot dog or hamburger, not to mention beer. So, what's a girl to do?

Enter the "faux tato" salad. This easy low-carb (or keto) cauliflower potato salad makes one sneaky substitution. That's right! Cauliflower instead of potatoes!

More Salad Recipes You’ll Love for Your BBQ:

Cauliflower Vs. Potatoes

Fear not, if you’ve ever had cauliflower pizza crust, then you may know that it’s incredible how the texture and taste of cauliflower can easily substitute some of your favorite starches!

And for this recipe, lightly steamed cauliflower has a similar texture to boiled potatoes. It's a beautiful alternative to the traditional version made with white potatoes so that you can watch your carbs. It's the best of both worlds.

Or, at the very least, you can save your carbs for where they count. Like poolside brewskies and margs! (A girl's got to have priorities right? )

Full Cauliflower Potato Salad Recipe Below!

Just a few quick steps, and you’ll have a side dish that’s sure to please everyone! Snag the printable recipe card and step by step instructions at the bottom of this post!

Cauliflower Potato Salad - Perfect Low Carb Side Dish
Easy Cauliflower Potato Salad Recipe - A great low carb side dish for a bbq
Cauliflower Potato Salad - Easy Low Carb Recipe for a side dish
Low carb recipe - cauliflower potato salad! SO easy!

Add Your Special Touch

You could also fold in onions, chopped pickles, or whatever your mom used to put in her famous potato salad. This low carb cauliflower potato salad is your oyster, or however the saying goes.

Need MORE Salad Recipes for a Crowd?

Then don’t miss these make-ahead salad recipes that are perfect for entertaining!

Recipe

Cauliflower potato salad in a small bowl, with a spoon sticking out.
Print Pin
4.40 from 76 votes

Cauliflower Potato Salad

Cauliflower Potato Salad – Easy Low Carb Recipe that's a cauliflower salad that you'll want to make for that barbecue this summer, or even during the week as a side dish for dinner.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 263kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 8 cups chopped and washed cauliflower
  • 6 hard-boiled egg yolks
  • 1 cup mayo
  • 2 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoon chopped chives
  • paprika garnish, optional

Instructions

  • Lightly steam cauliflower, no more than 4 minutes per batch. Set in the refrigerator to cool.
  • Combine egg yolks, mayo, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl and mix until creamy. You can use a fork, but it may have a few lumps. For the smoothest result, use an immersion blender.
  • Pour mayo mixture over cauliflower and combine until all the cauliflower is nice and creamy. Then, lightly fold in chopped chives.
  • Place in serving bowl and garnish with paprika. Serve chilled.  

Notes

Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (about 1 cup) | Calories: 263kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 158mg | Sodium: 258mg | Potassium: 345mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 245IU | Vitamin C: 52mg | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 0.9mg

Pin It!

Pin this Low-Carb Potato Salad recipe for later so you can have it on your fingertips when you need it in a pinch!

Keep Low Carb Potato Salad Cold

Like any salad, this baby should be served cold. So when it’s really hot outside, you definitely want to keep your cauliflower "faux tato" salad as cold as possible.

Keto BBQ Side

If you are serving it outdoors, it might be a good idea to put your container of cauliflower "faux tato" salad on top of a larger bowl filled with ice.

This will ensure your salad stays nice and cold. Let people blame too many margaritas for their stomach aches the next day, not your beloved salad.

This low carb cauliflower potato salad is a great low carb recipe! So easy and definitely a low carb vegetable for the keto diet!

Other Low Carb Recipes?

If you’re on a hunt for low carb recipes, then you’ll definitely want to check out some of our favorite Keto and low carb dishes!

Low Carb Parmesan Chicken Tenders

This almond meal chicken tenders recipe is so easy and so good! It's perfect for Keto chicken recipes and low carb chicken recipes!

Easy Pan Seared and Oven Baked Steak Recipe

How to Cook Steak in the oven! RecipeThis was so easy and incredible, with the browned butter! Easy Steak Recipe: Pan Fried and in the Oven Photo

Dessert Salad Recipes

If you’re looking for dessert salad for your barbecue or to simply enjoy during a busy week, you’ll love these:

Pasta Salads More Your Thing?

We love pasta salads around here, so we’ve compiled a list of our favorites and some of the top food bloggers pasta salad recipes so you’re armed and ready!

Simple and Easy Recipes to Pin for Later!

Be sure to check out all of our recent favorite simple and easy homemade recipes in our archives.

Thank you for coming by, and don’t forget to pin this reicpe so you have it when you need it again!

Low carb recipe - cauliflower potato salad! SO easy!

Hot Dog Bar Toppings and Ideas for Your Next Party

This post has been sponsored by Kraft Foods. All thoughts and opinions are my own. It’s hot dog bar toppings and ideas for your next party!

Hot Dog Bar Ideas and Toppings Suggestions for a party

Words cannot express how badly I have wanted to style a party at my parent’s farm, and last week… that dream came true, styling this hot dog bar!

Food bars are one of my favorites to style for a party, so I knew this was a MUST.

Hot Dog Bar Ideas

Now ANY hot dog bar, should start out with gathering your favorite toppings and basics.

Hot Dog Bar Basics

For my hot dog bar, I used Oscar Mayer Wieners (the perfect amount for a small group of friends), buns, chips, and a big variety of different toppings for guests to choose from. (Seen below.)

Grilling hot dogs for hot dog bar

Tip: Let guests cook their own dogs on the grill nearby, so they can customize their hot dog even more! (Some may like them cooked longer than others.) Or you can even add some other types of hot dogs like these mini corn dogs or make wiener winks on the grill.

Hot Dog Bar Baskets for individual servings

Boxed Kits

For a little fun, I created a “boxed” style plate for each guest. Each one included a bun, a carton of chips and a fabric napkin. I love the idea of guests being able to grab-&-go, and head right over to the toppings area to make their own creations!

However, using small baskets, boats, or paper plates is perfectly fine too!

Individual Baskets for Hot Dog Bar

Drinks – Keeping it Simple

Since I had the girls on my mind, when styling this chic hot dog bar, I knew lemon water would be PERFECT. It’s simple, thirst quenching for a warm day, and pretty to-boot!

Tip: Fill with a lot of ice, so the water stays chilled and you don’t have to worry about adding ice to the individual cups.

Water with Lemon for outdoor party in drink dispenser

Comfort Food for the Gals

I don’t know about you, but there’s a REASON I have the friends that I do. We know a good comfort-food dish when we see one.

So styling this party with my gal pals in mind, it was with NO hesitation that I’d encourage a “mac & cheese bacon dog.” (You’ll see a bit of that goodness below.)

I included a bowl of mac & cheese on the table, for an easy side dish if guests aren’t in to using it as a topping.

Mac and Cheese - perfect as a side or hot dog topping

Hot Dog Bar Toppings

Alright, let’s get down to the hot dog bar toppings, shall we? I had so much fun creating my own hot dog creation, and I already can’t wait to do this again sometime so I can try something new next time!

To keep things simple, I found the cutest little mason jars, that were the perfect size for the toppings. They came in a 12 pk., and I was able to fill them ahead of time, and top with the lids until it was time to serve!

Hot Dog Bar Topping Ideas

Using mini clothespins I attached little strips of paper to each jar.

Hot Dog Bar Toppings in mason jars

I wish I had thought to put this hot dog sauce on the hot dog bar too because it would be the perfect topping paired with some of these others!

Hot Dog Bar Toppings in small mini glass jars

Topping Ideas:

Hot Dogs in their little boxes, ready for the guests

Mac & Cheese Bacon Dog

Now for real, who WOULDN’T love the combo of cheese and bacon on a hot dog? I know most of my friends would… and I sure did!

Hot dog with mac and cheese with crumbled bacon

Now I’ll go ahead and say that this may be one of my favorite party set-ups so far. (Although I do tend to say that with each one.)

Hot Dog Bar Toppings Ideas for outdoor party

Building Your Own Hot Dog Bar

So remember if you’re styling and hosting your own hot dog bar, start with the basics, and have fun with the topping selections!

This was by far one of the easiest parties I’ve styled, and would be super easy to recreate again!

Kraft, Oscar Mayer, and Heinz products for a hot dog bar party

Recipe

hot dog toppings
Print Pin
5 from 3 votes

Hot Dog Bar Ideas & Toppings

Hot Dog Bar Toppings and Ideas for Your Next Party: Indoor or outdoor, this is an easy party food to serve that allows guests to make their hot dogs their own way! Who WOULDN'T love to play around with the different flavors!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 10 people
Calories 237kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • Cooked Hot Dogs
  • Hot Dog Buns
  • Mustard
  • Relish
  • Barbecue Sauce
  • Bacon
  • Lettuce
  • Onions Red, White or Green
  • Sliced Jalapenos
  • Sauerkraut
  • Chili
  • Tomatoes
  • Bell Peppers
  • Mac & Cheese
  • Cheese Sauce

Instructions

  • Place cooked hot dogs

Nutrition

Serving: 1hot dog | Calories: 237kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.001g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 548mg | Potassium: 129mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 38IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 74mg | Iron: 3mg

I can’t wait to hear about your very own hot dog bar, and as always… let me know what questions you have, below!

Bacon Egg and Cheese Sandwich

Bacon Egg and Cheese Sandwich: This easy breakfast sandwich is made with brioche, over easy egg, cheese and crispy bacon! It definitely makes your breakfast something to brag about!

Next, you’ll want to make these egg rolls for breakfast because they’re such a fun twist! If mini food is more your style, I’ve also got Breakfast Sliders with the same flavor profile.

Bacon Egg and Cheese Sandwich Sliced Open

Why you’ll love this!

  • This sandwich is a delicious breakfast sandwich but it can also be served all day long or even a late night snack!
  • It’s incredibly easy, uses simple ingredients, and can be changed up to reflect your favorite flavors and textures.
  • If you loved our Hawaiian Rolls Breakfast Sliders and our fried egg and bologna sandwich, then you’re going to love the flavors of this one too!

Ingredients

First, I really recommend using thick cut bacon for this recipe. I use thick cut, because I’m a texture gal, and when I can really taste the thick cut of bacon in a bite… my bacon love language is on high-alert.

  • bacon
  • sliced cheese (we used white American cheese)
  • egg
  • bun (We used brioche but you can use a hamburger bun, Hawaiian bun, etc.)
Bacon in the package - Oscar Mayer
Thick Cut Bacon

Then, you’ll want an egg, a slice of cheese and a bun for each sandwich you want to make!

Egg, brioche and cheese
Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Cook the bacon. (I’m a “crunchy” bacon kind of gal, but I have friends and family members that prefer it’s not cooked as long. So however you prefer your bacon, feel free to cook it as long as you like! Just make sure it is fully cooked!) Set aside, and keep warm. You can even cook bacon in the air fryer if you have one!

Cooked bacon slices on papertowel
Cooked Bacon

Step 2: Over Easy Egg

If you’ve noticed “over-easy” eggs on sandwiches all over the menus in your favorite restaurants lately, then you know that eggs aren’t just for breakfast anymore. I think it takes sandwiches to a whole new level.

So gently cook your over-easy eggs, being careful not to bust the egg yolk. (You’ll want to bust that yolk when cutting the sandwich in half, right before serving!)

Egg in pan
Over easy egg

Step 3: Assemble!

Slice your brioche bun in half, and layer on a slice of cheese, and then top with two slices of bacon. (I sliced each bacon piece in half, so the bacon pieces would sit better on the sandwich.)

Cheese and bacon on bun
Layer cheese and bacon

Then, carefully top with your over-easy egg, and the top of the brioche bun.

Over easy egg on bacon
Add egg

Serve!

Sometimes, I don’t get so lucky to “pop” the egg yolk when I slice it, but nevertheless, the combination of the crunch of the bacon with the other ingredients is DYNAMITE!

If you won’t be serving the breakfast sandwiches right away, you can wrap them in aluminum foil for easy transportation or to keep warm!

Bacon egg and cheese sandwich
Bacon egg and cheese

Substitutions

Feel free to experiment and substitute items for this sandwich. Such as:

  • Cheese: The type of cheese is up to you! Here are some of our favorites: swiss, provolone, pepper jack, gouda
  • Meat: Turkey Bacon, sausage, ham, turkey (or skip the meat and just do cheese and egg sandwiches)
  • Bun: Hamburger bun, Hawaiian bun, slider, buttermilk biscuit, kaiser roll, bagel
  • Eggs: If you’re not a fan of runny eggs, you can easily cook a fried egg and top with the fluffy egg instead

Topping Ideas

Want to kick things up a notch with some extra fun flavors? Here are some ideas of what you can top this sandwich with:

  • Mayo
  • Hot Sauce
  • Hollandaise

Other Bacon Sandwich Ideas

If you’re looking for other fun bacon sandwich recipes ideas, here are a few ideas you can play around with!

  • Bacon, lettuce, tomato, over-easy egg
  • Bacon, avocado, tomato
  • Bacon, chicken, ranch dressing
  • Bacon grilled cheese

Then for some added extra fun, combine some of those sandwich ideas to make a whole new sandwich!

More Recipes?

If you loved this sandwich recipe, then you’ll also want to make sure you get your hands on this hot ham and cheese sandwich recipe, too! Or, if you’re having this sandwich for breakfast, then you’ll also love to see this biscuits and gravy casserole recipe that you can make soon!

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

Recipe

Bacon Egg and Cheese
Print Pin
4.50 from 2 votes

Bacon Egg and Cheese Sandwich

Bacon Egg and Cheese Sandwich: This easy breakfast sandwich is made with brioche, over easy egg, cheese and crispy bacon!
Course Breakfast, Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 1 sandwich
Calories 821kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 2 slices bacon
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 egg
  • 1 slice cheese American, swiss or your favorite
  • 1 brioche bun Or hamburger bun

Instructions

  • Cook bacon. You can place bacon slices on a plate lined with a paper towel, and cook in the microwave for 4 minutes or until bacon is crispy.
  • While bacon in microwaving, you can cook your over easy egg in a skillet on the stove. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat. Carefully crack egg over skillet, being careful not to bust the yolk.
  • Cook egg for about 2 minutes, and carefully flip egg over, using a spatula and cook for another minute or so. You'll want the egg white fully cooked but the yolk still be runny inside.
  • Build the sandwich: Place slice of cheese on bottom bun, layer cooked bacon and top with over easy egg. Place top bun on top, and serve!

Video

Notes

Feel free to change up the cheese flavor, bun type and more, to create the perfect sandwich! 
This recipe makes one sandwich but simply increase amounts to make as many sandwiches that you need. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwich | Calories: 821kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 62g | Saturated Fat: 31g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 394mg | Sodium: 1011mg | Potassium: 173mg | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 1604IU | Calcium: 276mg | Iron: 2mg

How my Faith is a Necessity with Social Media

How my Faith is a Necessity with Social Media: If you allow it, the online world can diminish your thoughts on self worth and value in minutes. Let’s get in to your faith toolkit, and help you overcome these tough roadblocks in today’s world.

How my Faith is a Necessity with Social Media

Have you ever fallen victim to a social media "crap-storm"? I can tell you from experience that being on the receiving end is not fun, but maybe not for the reasons you might guess.

Now, before you go thinking that this is a rant about how unfair the world is, I'm a big girl, and I know what I signed up for as a blogger, and I fully understand that the negativity on social media comes with the territory, but I'm often left scratching my head at the extent to which some people will go to get your attention.

How my faith is necessary with social media

Faith First

So, let me tell you how my faith fits into all of this. I have a choice in how I respond to the negative things that people say, and to be honest, sometimes it's not easy to hold my tongue. It takes a lot to not type exactly what I'm thinking, but I understand  that when I respond in a negative way, it's a reflection on me, and that's not a side I want to give to my community. I've learned that instead of focusing on the hurtful comment,  it's much better to divert my attention to something more positive.

One of my morning rituals is to visit SandersWeb for inspiration. During one of those social media storms, I found myself on the site praying for a random Bible verse to show up and get my mind in a better place.

Then, this popped up on my computer screen…

“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” – Galatians 1:10

Seeking approval of man?

Well crap. Thank you, Jesus. It was like a virtual slap in the face that morning, and EXACTLY what I needed to hear. Now although it didn’t last… and I have to keep returning back to this verse from time to time, it still hits home when I need it to.

My Faith Toolkit

To be prepared when the enemy is trying to drag me down, I have my very own “faith toolkit” full of reminders to keep me from wallowing in a dark pit.

Having a faith toolkit keeps me centered and grounded, especially in those times when the dark side of social media tries to step in and take control of my thoughts and how I feel about myself. Not only have I included verses like Galatians 1:10 above, but I have other tools sitting there, well-sharpened, and ready for me to use.

A Few Faith Tools I Use:

  •  I reach in and recall stories and my own experiences and examples of how God has shown up in my life in the past, and rescued me from “man”. Remembering those times is a reality check, and a beautiful reminder that God is there.
  •  I reach out to God-fearing friends who are faithful, and there when I need them. Even if all I have to send is a simple text of “Please pray for me today.” Trust me, asking for help is a HARD one for me. But push through… the love you can receive far outranks the vulnerability.
  •  I look for the GOOD on social media. I’ll head to a Facebook group, an Instagram feed, or even Pinterest for uplifting, faith-based encouragement to get back on the faith-train.

Even only utilizing these three tools, I’m usually back on the up & up during a tough day online.

So Why Not Just Say “Good-Bye” to Social Media?

So you may be asking me:

Jessica, if social media is that “bad” then why don’t you just get off of it, and cancel your accounts?

Yep. Totally get that question, and that seems like the easiest way, right? But, then I’d miss out on all of the wonderful things my friends are sharing and the amazing experiences of those I follow. This is the positive side of social media that I love.

Plus, I understand that no matter what “platform” is used, there will always be someone out there trying to use it to hurt others. Whether it’s social media, a hard copy newspaper article or a stranger on the side of the road holding up a sign bashing someone, they’ll find a way to do it.

Preparation is key. As long as my faith toolkit is filled, and the tools are sharpened, I can handle whatever life throws at me, and however it’s thrown at me.

Just a Couple of “Hmm’s” to Think About

Faith and social media

Friends, as I share all of this with you… please know this is from my heart, and that I’m not a perfect person. I’m totally guilty of judging others, just as we all have, and have even been guilty of looking at my friend next to me, and saying “Oh my gosh, did you see that on Facebook about her?”

So know that I’m imperfect, and I write this to you… just as I’m saying it to myself too.

Now that the too-tight social media shoe’s been on the other foot, here are a couple of thoughts I think about when I find myself on social media, reading that viral post about someone and tempted to cast my opinion (maybe these will help you, too.)

Are You a Silent Troll?

  • Are you sure you’re not sharing or tagging someone in something on social media that could contribute to the hurt of someone else?

As an online media gal, I’ve learned some of the ins and outs of social media over the years, and realize that some may not fully grasp how viral some things can get, by innocently tagging a friend in the comments to read it, sharing, commenting with even just an emoji, or even “liking” a post that someone else has created.

When a post gets likes, shares, a tag and/or comments, the social media platform will see that as a popular post, so it will get “pushed out” to social media even more. In which, can then manifest in to more and more hurt for someone out there in the online world, if the post relates to them in some way.

Or NOT Silent? Well Please Just Remember This.

  • Even if you agree with a hateful post that someone created, wish badly for someone, OR… even create that hateful status update yourself … there is someone out there that hasn’t done anything to you.

These types of posts and comments could be indirectly hurting them, (their child, spouse, mother, sister, brother, etc.) by spreading hate in the online world. When it’s not happening to you, it’s easy to feel that your actions are justified, but what if it were you or your family member?

Which brings me to something else…

The Online World: A Real Person?

  • Because the online world is a virtual one, it’s easy to forget that there’s a real person on the other side of the screen.

Online it’s easy to feel that it’s just us with our laptops. We have a right to our opinion, right? What’s the harm in adding our two or three cents to the growing comment section? Before we know it, we easily slip in to the mindset that what we see/read/hear online, doesn’t involve REAL human beings. Suddenly, we’re pushing compassion aside and saying and doing what feels good at the moment without considering someone’s feelings. Words have power, even if they’re just on a screen.

Sure, we may convince ourselves by saying…

“Well, I just want to share it to protect others by letting “everyone” know.”

I’m sure that’s true in some cases, but is it really the reason we’re sharing it? Or is that just what we tell ourselves, to justify feeding on the negative?

I also truly believe that if you take at least HALF of the people that leave awful comments and status updates on social media about someone, and sat them down in front of the person they were “confronting”, that they’d either hesitate, change their mind, or change up their words in a less-hurtful manner.

The Real Story

Man alive. This. This is so huge.

A joke I often say is

Well I saw it on the Internet, so it must be true, right!?

Then we giggle, and move on with our conversation. But the truth is, anyone can get online and write just about anything they want, whether it’s true or not. Heck, even a newspaper can write something in just a way that makes it sound like something it isn’t.

Taking a second to consider that there could be a deeper story associated with what we’re reading and that we may not know all of the details, gives us a second to reconsider our reaction and take a step back before telling the world how we feel. Despite what we see, there could always be more to the story.

Final Thoughts…

I’m sure it’s far-fetched to say that "everyone" has been attacked, or trolled on social media at some point in their life; however, the reality is, that everyone has, in some degree, been the victim of some sort of hurtful comment or act that someone has created on a social network. (Whether it was towards them, or even towards someone that they care about.)

It's the world we live in currently. Everyone can have a platform created in minutes to try and ruin someone's day, or even life, and if you allow it to… your self-worth and value can be diminished, in a second flat, after reading it.

Mindfulness will go a long way toward curbing some of the negative behavior online. Until that happens, I’ll keep using my faith toolkit to get me through.

Need your own Faith toolkit?

I’m sharing my faith toolkit with you. It’s full of my favorite Bible verses and resources. I hope it comes in handy when you’re looking for peace and comfort, during your own “life storm”.

Download it the Faith Toolkit, or by clicking the image below!

Faith Toolkit free printable download

I’m so glad that you came by. I adore having conversations like this with you all, and tend to get deeper in conversation and share more real-life experiences in my love notes that I send out to inboxes every once in a while. To get on that list, just head over and subscribe, and I’ll be in your inbox shortly!

Best Coffee Maker: Ninja Coffee Bar

Best Coffee Maker: How to Use the Ninja Coffee Bar – Tutorial and instructions on how to use the CF091 coffee maker! It’s easy to use, and now you can make your own lattes at home!

Ninja Coffee Bar

How to Use the Ninja Coffee Bar

So the other day on my Facebook page, I shared with you how much I love my Ninja Coffee Bar! A lot of you said you have been eyeing it for a while, but were either intimidated by it or wasn’t sure if you wanted to take the plunge and switch to one or not.

This is PERFECT for a small space! DIY Coffee Bar Ideas for the Kitchen!

Then, someone asked if I’d make a video on how to use mine, so they could decide if it was time to get one or not. Well you know me, and you know how much I love sharing things that I love… so a video it was!

Ninja Coffee Bar Tutorial

I hope this video showing you how I use it, and the different options that it has to make a simple cup a coffee, a latte, or even a whole pot of coffee… helps you with either your machine or helps you decide if you want one too!

I truly do believe it is the best coffee maker, ever. I’ve had a Keurig for many years, and now when I make a cup of coffee with the Keurig, it tastes like plastic to me. I’m spoiled rotten and am forever grateful that I have the Ninja now.

If you’re not in a good place to watch the video at the moment, I’ll highlight a few of my favorite things about the Ninja Coffee Bar!

  • You can make one simple cup of coffee
  • You can make a whole carafe for multiple cups
  • Need more than a cup, but not a full carafe? No problem, use the “half carafe” setting
  • Has built-in frother for lattes
  • Rich brew options
  • It has an iced brew option (Make this iced caramel latte or this iced coffee recipe!)
  • Washable coffee filter
  • Water reservoir
  • Self-timer
  • “Keep Warm” setting
This is PERFECT for a small space! DIY Coffee Bar Ideas for the Kitchen!

I even love the way it looks on my countertops. It’s sleek, and doesn’t take up a lot of counter space which is a huge plus!

Best Air Fryer – Ninja Air Fryer

I know, you’re probably wondering why I’m throwing in a “Best Air Fryer” tidbit in this post, right?

Because I found out while researching for the best air fryers the other day, that the Ninja Air Fryer is also my go-to pick for air fryers!

The reviews and specs of the fryer were a shoo-in for my top pick. See the post with all of the details of the Ninja Air Fryer and other air fryers I put up to the test, HERE!

New Here?

If you’re here for the first time, I’d LOVE for you to visit more! Head to the homepage where you can see all of the fun things we talk about around here! Home decor, fashion, easy recipes, and so much more!

How to use the Ninja Coffee Bar System! I have to get one of these!

Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie

Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie: Take a break from hot chocolate and fall in love with this easy to make HOT strawberry smoothie! 3 Ingredients, quick, and delicious! Add to a hot chocolate bar for a variety!

Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie

Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie

As part of the “Make it Martha” team for Martha Stewart, I’m forever so grateful to snag some adorable and fun Martha Stewart products from time to time. Over the holidays I received the Snowflake Enameled Cast Iron Collector’s dish, and couldn’t WAIT to use it!

You can find more of the Martha Stewart Collection Cast Iron Cookware, at Macy’s.

Martha Stewart Enameled Cast Iron Collection - Snowflake Casserole Dish

You know what my favorite part of the snowflake design is? It looks like a snowflake but also looks like a fun design that I can use all year long. Yay for justification! I can’t WAIT to show you below what I made in this the other day! (Full recipe and printable recipe card, at the bottom of the page!)

Martha Stewart Enameled Cast Iron Collection at Macy's - Snowflake Casserole Dutch Oven Pot Pan
Martha Stewart Enameled Cast Iron Collection at Macy's

How to Make a Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie:

Alright, so the other day I was standing in my pantry, looking at the package of smoothie mix that I had picked up during a recent grocery shopping trip. It was 17 degrees outside, and although I was in the mood to make something sweet, I didn’t want something ice cold. I wanted something quick, warm, and hot chocolate just wasn’t cutting it.

Then… it hit me. Why I can’t I use this mix to make a smoothie, but make it a hot one? Yeah. It had to happen, and I’m so glad that it did.

Almond Milk, Strawberries and Smoothie packet - hot Strawberries and cream smoothie

I began by dicing and muddling four strawberries…

Crushed/muddled strawberries - strawberries and cream smoothie

Then, over low heat, (or you can use the microwave in you like) I heated up a package of the smoothie mix, 1 ¼ cups of almond milk and strawberries.
(You can totally use regular if you like, but I wanted that almond flavor added to mine that day.)

Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie - Perfect for a warm drink treat, when you're tired of the same ole hot chocolate.

NOTE: I left some of the strawberries a little larger for the photos so you could see the deliciousness of the strawberries added in… but I may mash them more a little next time, so it goes down a bit smoother. You may want to do this too, ESPECIALLY if you’re a non-texture person when it comes to your food/drink.

Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie!

Once it was heated it over low heat, and it was fully heated through, I poured it in to my favorite coffee mug and topped it with whipped cream. Totally not necessary, but totally delicious.

Mmm!!! Love this instead of hot chocolate or white chocolate! It's an easy way to make a hot strawberries and cream hot drink! So fun! Especially to add to a hot chocolate bar!

Perfect for a Hot Chocolate Bar…

How fantastic would this be as an addition to a hot chocolate bar? It’s great for those who aren’t a fan of chocolate, but it also adds variety (and a pretty pink color) to your hot chocolate bar too!

Or Valentine’s Day?

If you’re looking for something for your kiddos to enjoy for Valentine’s Day, or looking for a hot and steamy treat for your sweet, this is a quick and easy recipe to whip up and sip on that evening in front of a warm fire!

Here’s the quick recipe so you can whip up your own too! This recipe made one LARGE mug full for me, but could easily make two small servings!

More Drink Recipes

Do you love fun drink ideas as much as I do? If so, you’ll love these drink ideas!

More Strawberry Recipes

We kind of have a thing for strawberry recipes around here! If you love strawberries too, you’ll want to make sure you see these:

Recipe

Hot strawberry drink in clear mug.
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Hot Strawberries and Cream Smoothie

Only THREE ingredients are required to make this sweet treat! Top with whipped cream for the ultimate dessert idea.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 1 serving
Calories 52kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1 2-ounce package Strawberry Smoothie Mix
  • 1-¼ cup milk I chose almond milk, but regular is just fine!
  • 4 strawberries
  • whipped cream if desired

Instructions

  • Remove stems from strawberries, dice and mash/muddle in a small bowl.
  • In a saucepan, and over low heat, stir and combine smoothie mix, milk, and strawberries in a stockpot for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
  • Serve with whipped cream on top, if desired!
  • **Can heat up in the microwave too, if you prefer a faster approach!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 52kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 26mg | Potassium: 153mg | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 100IU | Vitamin C: 28.2mg | Calcium: 69mg | Iron: 0.2mg

Martha Stewart Collection:

If you love adding to your cast iron collection as much as I do, and ESPECIALLY love the Martha Stewart line at Macy’s (ahem, I’m kind of obsessed with her cake stand collection), you can shop it all on Macy’s.

Easy Fluffy Pancakes from Scratch

An easy homemade easy, fluffy, American pancakes from scratch recipe that uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have on hand that makes the best pancakes every time!

stack of pancakes with syrup

In less than 10 minutes you’ll have one of the best breakfast foods that kids (big and small) will love and an easy recipe that you’ll save and use over and over again and will uplevel your Saturday mornings! These delicious homemade pancakes will become a new family favorite! (Well, these and these Oreo pancakes too!)

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Featured Comment:

From Amanda: “Honestly, these are the best from scratch pancakes I've made. I used an extra teaspoon of sugar and I use Mexican vanilla and I legit melted a tablespoon of butter per pancake and let it sizzle and absorb into the crust and omg…y'all… I put the extra batter in the fridge to see how it cooks up tomorrow!“

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love pancake mixes like anyone but when you’re looking for a recipe from scratch, or even curious if you have the items on hand to make homemade pancakes, this recipe only uses basic ingredients that you probably already have on hand!

Plus, it’s incredibly easy, it creates a flavorful, perfectly sweet and fluffy pancake that will make you wonder why you even used pancake mix in the first place!

They’re a delicious weekend breakfast idea, to make for a brunch party (along with this ham and cheese croissant bake) when entertaining friends or also quick enough for a weekday morning before sending the kids off to school!

And if it helps… my kids say this is the best pancake recipe, ever!

fork holding a bite of pancakes

How do you make pancakes fluffier?

I’ve made a TON of pancakes in the 10 years of being a mother to my little boys… and to say that I’ve experimented with pancakes is an understatement! (This is probably why it was easy for me to come up with 95+ pancake topping ideas too! For real.)

I’ve found that when doing the following, we get the fluffiest pancakes:

  • When mixing the batter, do NOT over-mix. Lumps are good and this creates a fluffy pancake, rather than chewy, flat pancakes.
  • Let your batter rest a little bit. (Maybe 5 minutes or so.)
  • Sometimes, adding a bit of acid (like mixing vinegar and milk like I do for substituting buttermilk in my buttermilk banana bread recipe) helps give the pancakes a fluffy, buttermilk pancake texture!

Simple Ingredients

See the photo below that shows you everything you need to make these basic pancakes.

Ingredients for pancakes

Interestingly, the ingredients are similar to my vanilla mug cake, so if you have extra, it’s a great idea to try that dessert recipe too.

See the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card below.

  • all-purpose flour
  • baking powder
  • sugar
  • whole milk or buttermilk for buttermilk pancakes (skim milk or 2% will work too) Of, if you want to use almond milk, you can make this almond milk pancakes recipe!
  • egg
  • melted butter + extra for greasing pan or griddle (salted or unsalted butter)
  • vanilla extract (pure vanilla extract is always our favorite, instead of imitation but either will work!)

Step By Step Directions for Easy Pancakes

Begin by mixing dry ingredients in a large bowl.

  1. Pour in flour, baking powder, sugar and then mix together. (Photo 1, 2, 3, & 4 below.)
Step by Step mixing dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, sugar

2. Next, add in milk, egg, melted butter and vanilla. (Photos 5, 6, 7, & 8 below.)

how to make pancakes steps - milk, egg, butter and vanilla

3. Gently whisk together the ingredients, making sure it’s mixed evenly, WITHOUT mixing too much. Lumps are good and create fluffy pancakes, instead of flat, chewy pancakes. (Photos 9 & 10 below.)

Gently whisk pancake batter - lumps are good

4. Preheat griddle to 350° or pan to medium heat. (Letting the batter rise while preheating will help make fluffier pancakes as well.)

5. When heated, coat the hot griddle or pan with butter so pancakes do not stick. (Photo 11 below.)

6. Using a ¼ measuring cup (or batter dispenser) scoop up batter and pour pancakes on to buttered cooking surface about 2-3 inches apart. (Photo 12 below.)

7. Flip pancakes when you notice bubbles starting to form on top of the pancakes and the bottom looks golden brown. (Photo 13 below.)

8. Cook the remaining side of pancakes for about 1 minute or until the bottoms are golden brown. (Photo 14 below.)

how to cook pancakes on griddle

Expert Tips and FAQs

  • Making Pancakes in Advance – You can actually make the pancake batter in advance. Simply mix as instructed and refrigerate in an air-tight, covered container for up to 2 days, until ready to cook.
  • Freezing Pancakes – Love having pancakes on hand? Or do you have leftover pancakes? You can make a large batch (simply double or triple the recipe using the quick-calculation buttons in the recipe card below to figure measurements for you) and once cooked and cooled, store the pancakes in the freezer until ready to reheat and serve!
  • DIY Pancake Mix: To save even more time in the future, whip up extra dry ingredients, mixed together to make a homemade pancake mix, and store in a sealable container or bag. Then, just add the wet ingredients when it comes time to make! Pro Tip: Print off the recipe card below and tape it to the plastic container for easy reference… OR, pour in a cute bottle and give it as a gift idea!
  • For cooking: Salted butter is highly recommended. It creates golden, lightly crisp edges and gives the pancakes their best buttery, restaurant-style flavor. Even better restaurant-style option: If you have Whirl butter-flavored oil, use it to grease the griddle for an even more authentic restaurant-style flavor.
How do you make buttermilk pancakes?

Simply substitute buttermilk in place of the milk or substitute buttermilk by mixing regular milk with a few drops of lemon juice.

What makes a good pancake?

1. Making sure all of your ingredients are fresh and not expired – especially the baking powder
2. Don’t overmix! Small lumps are good for fluffy pancakes. If overmixing, the pancakes will be flat.
3. Rest the batter for about 5 minutes before cooking to allow it to “rise”.

Can you cook pancakes in a skillet?

Yes! I prefer an electric griddle because it makes more at one time. However, a skillet can also create an "edge" and allow the pancakes to have a crispier edge and a fluffy center! NOTE: See the image below of pancakes cooked in a skillet compared to the other pancake photos that are cooked on a griddle!) Simply butter a large skillet and cook pancakes over medium-high heat, according to the directions in the recipe card below!

Easy Homemade Pancakes

What to Serve with Pancakes

If you’re looking to round out a hearty breakfast, some of our favorite recipes to serve with pancakes are air fryer bacon, this meaty quiche, or these hash-brown patties! And if you’re looking for something delicious to put on top of the pancakes, you can’t beat these cinnamon and sugar fried pears.

Or, get the oven hot and try baking sausage patties in the oven!

However we also love to serve:

  • eggs (scrambled, over-easy, over-medium)
  • sausage patties or links
  • biscuits and gravy (like our chorizo gravy!)
  • fresh fruit (like strawberries, grapes, orange slices, bananas, and more!)

What to Mix in Pancakes

Now, for the purpose of this video, I wanted to make regular pancakes. So, I left out some of my favorite pancake additions. I absolutely love adding special toppings, fillings, and even secret ingredients to sneak in for my kids. I love adding things like:

…in case you feel like adding a little pizzaz to your own homemade pancake recipe!
TIP: If using frozen berries, it’s best to thaw them before adding to the batter as the berries may still be cold or frozen even after frying the pancakes.

Mix-in Ideas for pancakes - blueberries, chocolate chips, sprinkles

If you love pancakes as much as I do, then you’ll want to get a hold of this list of over 95 pancake toppings to add to all sorts of pancakes!

After you make the basic pancake recipe below, feel free to add in a little of any of those toppings above, and gently fold in to the batter! Fry as usual for the perfect pancakes that the whole family will love!

We are BIG fans of pancakes around here, so if this is your first time here, I want to make sure you know about our sheet pan pancakes, these delicious blueberry pancakes, secret healthy ingredient pancakes (hint: the kids will never know!), and our pumpkin white chocolate pancakes that are perfect for fall!

Or, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, this gluten free pancake mix is wonderful!

I’d also love to hear what you think of this recipe! Leave a rating and a comment down below if you have a little bit of time, to help others know what you think of it!

Recipe

stack of pancakes with syrup
Print Pin
4.94 from 30 votes

Fluffy Pancakes from Scratch Recipe

Easy pancakes from scratch that use everyday ingredients that you probably already have on hand that makes the best, fluffy pancakes every time!
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Servings 5 pancakes
Calories 279kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups all purpose flour
  • 2½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1¼ cups whole milk or buttermilk for buttermilk pancakes
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tablespoons melted salted butter + butter for cooking with
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and sugar.
  • Next, add in the milk, egg, 3 tablespoons of melted butter and vanilla.
  • Using a whisk, lightly mix the batter blending the ingredients. Do not overmix. Lumps are good!
  •  Use an additional tablespoon of butter, and melt in the pan over medium heat.
  • Using the ¼ measuring cup, scoop out a serving of batter on the butter covered pan.
  • When bubbles start to form on top of the pancake, flip.
  • Cook this side of the pancake for about 1-2 minutes, or until the color of the underside of the pancake reaches a golden brown.

Video

Notes

  • Making Pancakes in Advance – You can actually make the pancake batter in advance. Simply mix as instructed and refrigerate in an air-tight, covered container for up to 2 days, until ready to cook.
  • Freezing Pancakes – Love having pancakes on hand? You can make a large batch (simply double or triple the recipe using the quick-calculation buttons in the recipe card below to figure measurements for you) and once cooked and cooled, store the pancakes in the freezer until ready to reheat and serve!
For cooking: Salted butter is highly recommended. It creates golden, lightly crisp edges and gives the pancakes their best buttery, restaurant-style flavor. Even better restaurant-style option: If you have Whirl butter-flavored oil, use it to grease the griddle for an even more authentic restaurant-style flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 2pancakes | Calories: 279kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 58mg | Sodium: 303mg | Potassium: 149mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 357IU | Calcium: 205mg | Iron: 2mg

Snacks for the Beach

Summer beach days - is there anything better? Well, possibly snacks for the beach when you go!

As long as I pack enough food and drink to keep me full and hydrated during the day, there is nothing like soaking up the sun all day long by the ocean. Here you’ll find a great list of recipes that are perfect for the beach.

9 images showing beach snack ideas.

What Makes a Good Snack for the Beach?

A snack that doesn’t melt or or doesn’t have to be warmed up, makes a great snack for the beach!

Plus, a mixture of sweet and savory snack ideas is always a good bet for when the right craving hits.

You’ll also love these indoor picnic food ideas and this outdoor picnic set up.

The Best Snacks for the Beach

Pretzel Dip with Cream Cheese
This creamy, tangy, and slightly boozy dip pairs perfectly with soft pretzels (or any snack of your choice) and is bound to be the star of your next get-together.  
Pretzel Dip with Cream Cheese
Ranch beer dip in tan bowl, next to pretzels and crackers.
Fruity Pebble Treats
Fruity Pebbles Treats: Your favorite classic no-bake dessert with a twist, using fruity rice cereal to make crispy treats!
Fruity Pebble Treats
fruity pebbles treats on white plate
Air Fryer Apple Chips
These Air Fryer Apple Chips are perfect easy and healthy snack the whole family will love. Simple to make with just three ingredients.
Air Fryer Apple Chips
Air fryer apple chips
Ranger Cookies
Ranger Cookies: These quick and easy ranger cookies (also called cowboy cookies) are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Corn flakes and crispy rice cereal give these chewy cookies a crunchy texture that will make them a family favorite in no time!
Ranger Cookies
Ranger cookies piled up on a cutting board.
Everything But The Bagel Dip
Everything But The Bagel Dip: This delicious dip uses simple ingredients to give you all the flavor of an everything bagel in convenient dip form. You only need 5 minutes and 4 simple ingredients, and the recipe only has 3 steps – it doesn't get easier than that!
Everything But the Bagel Dip
A bowl of everything but the bagel dip with vegetables and crackers around it.
Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave
How to Make Homemade Popcorn in the Microwave: A quick and easy way to pop microwave popcorn, without oil, in a brown bag, and it's ready in minutes!
Homemade Popcorn Recipe
Homemade popcorn with butter and seasonings sprinkled on.
Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
Cake mix peanut butter cookies arex really easy, and it only takes 5 ingredients for a delicious chewy cookie!
Cake Mix Peanut Butter Cookies
Cake mix peanut butter cookies stacked.
Peanut Butter Fluff
Peanut butter fluff is a delicious blend of cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, marshmallow creme, and whipped topping. It comes together fast and is the perfect peanut butter flavored treat for parties!
Peanut Butter Fluff
Peanut butter fluff in a large white bowl.
Oreo Dip
Oreo Dip: This dip is so quick and easy to make! All you need are 10 minutes and five simple ingredients to whip up this creamy, fluffy Oreo dip that's sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Oreo Dip Recipe
A bowl of Oreo dip with an Oreo in it and crumbled Oreos on top.
Blue Cheese Dip
Blue Cheese Dip: Made of simple ingredients like sour cream, mayo, green onions, spices, lemon juice, and of course, blue cheese crumbles. This no bake recipe is delicious to serve with fresh vegetables, your favorite crackers, or even as a thick blue cheese dressing on top of a side salad.
Blue Cheese Dip Recipe
Blue cheese dip in small white bowl, with hand holding chip.
Spicy Crackers Recipe
Spicy Crackers Recipe: Seasoned crackers that are the perfect party snack. Sometimes called "firecrackers" or ranch crackers, this no bake recipe has tons of flavor.
Spicy Ranch Crackers
Spicy ranch crackers in white bowl.
Lemon Puppy Chow
This recipe is a delicious twist on classic Muddy Buddies. The lemon flavors shine through so wonderfully and this recipe is refreshing on a hot day!
Lemon Puppy Chow
Lemon Puppy Chow in white bowl.
Honey Lime Fruit Salad
Honey Lime Fruit Salad: A refreshing fresh fruit salad that's always a hit! Serve this fruit salad as a healthy dessert or as a sweet side dish for any occasion!
Honey Lime Fruit Salad
Honey Lime Fruit Salad
Walking Strawberry Cheesecake
Walking Strawberry Cheesecake: This scrumptious creation combines the best of both worlds: the rich, creamy goodness of cheesecake and the refreshing, juicy sweetness of strawberries. 
Walking Cheesecake
Walking cheesecake dessert in baking dish.
Booty Dip Recipe
Booty Dip: This recipe is made with Cream cheese, brown sugar, marshmallow fluff, vanilla, whipped cream and chocolate chips come together to create a fluffy, dreamy dip you won't be able to stop eating. 
Booty Dip
A bowl of booty dip surrounded by crackers and with two graham crackers in the dip.
Mixed Berry Trifle
Mixed Berry Mini Trifles: This trifle is an easy no bake dessert that's pretty, too! Cubes of cake, berries, and whipped cream are all you need to make these delicious mixed berry trifles! 
Mixed Berry Trifle
A mixed berry mini trifle.
Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip
Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip: A sweet dessert dip made with peanut butter, Greek yogurt, honey and cinnamon that is perfect for dipping fresh fruit, graham crackers or pretzels.
Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip
Close up of Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip in a bowl
Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs
Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs: So quick, easy and it made the shells peel off so easily, with the 5, 5 & 5 method!
Hard Boiled Eggs for Snacking
sliced hard boiled eggs on plate
How to Make a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
How to Make a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich: Did you know that there's a certain way to make a pb&j even better? It's true. Keep reading!
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Close up of peanut butter and jelly sandwich
The BEST Rice Krispie Treats
This rice krispie treats recipe is made with milk, making the marshmallows more creamy and the treats gooey and soft!
The BEST Rice Krispy Treats
Rice krispie treats on wooden board.
Lucky Charms Treats Recipe
Lucky Charms Treats: Delicious cereal bars made with a favorite cereal, that are made in the microwave and ready in about 10 minutes!
Lucky Charms Treats
Lucky Charms Treats stacked on top of one another, sitting on white counter.
Banana Pudding Dip
Banana Pudding Dip: An easy creamy dip that can be served with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, and fresh fruit as a no bake dessert recipe that's a sweet treat everyone will love!
Banana Pudding Dip
banana pudding dip on serving tray with crackers and fresh fruit
Fruit Board and Dip
Fruit Board: A great way to serve your favorite fruits at your next party! Make the fruit platter as shown or use your favorite fruits and crackers.
How to Make a Fruit Board
fruit board with crackers and dip
Fruit Dip with Marshmallow Fluff
Fruit Dip with Marshmallow Fluff: An easy fruit dip recipe that's perfect for fruit platters for dipping your favorite fruit or even graham crackers in!
Fruit Dip with Marshmallow Fluff
Fruit dip with marshmallow fluff in a white bowl
Nuts and Bolts Recipe
Nuts and Bolts Recipe: Or sometimes called "Texas Trash" or simply a homemade chex mix recipe, this seasoned snack is perfect for the holidays or to eat all year long!
Nuts and Bolts Recipe
Nuts and Bolts mix in wooden bowl
Pinwheel Sandwiches
These pinwheel sandwiches use simple ingredients and they're easy to make with your favorite deli meat! Perfect appetizer or even a lunch idea.
Turkey Pinwheels
Close-up of pinwheel sandwiches stacked on top of one another.
Turkey Sliders
Turkey sliders are great for a warm lunch option or party appetizer. The sweet flavors of the Hawaiian rolls combined with the salty flavors of cheese and turkey create the perfect combination.
Turkey Sliders
Turkey slider sitting on top of other turkey sliders with cheese.
The BEST Guacamole
How to Make Guacamole: Easy Recipe + The BEST! – This authentic homemade guacamole tops all guacamole recipes, using everyday ingredients to make a dip everyone will love!
The BEST Guacamole Recipe
The best guacamole in a small bowl with fresh cilantro on top.
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad: This super easy recipe is made using any type of pasta you prefer, a few other simple ingredients, and Zesty Italian dressing!
Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
ingredients in bowl for zesty Italian pasta salad
Harvest Chicken Salad
Harvest Chicken Salad has grapes, apples, celery, and pecans, has so many flavors of fall but it's cool enough for an easy summer meal as well.
Chicken Salad Sliders
Chicken salad with grapes and apples, sitting on bread.
Italian Cucumber Salad
Italian cucumber salad uses simple ingredients, such as Italian dressing, onions, cherry tomatoes and a few seasonings to make this a summer side dish to keep on hand!
Italian Cucumber Salad
Italian cucumber salad with onions, tomatoes, Italian dressing and seasonings.
Chicken Chipotle Melts
Chicken Chipotle Melts are a Taco Bell copycat recipe that only uses 4 ingredients and they are ready in about 20 minutes.
Chicken Chipotle Melts
Hand holding a chipotle chicken melt over a pan of others.

Ready-to-Go Foods to Pack for the Beach

If you’re looking for snack ideas that you can pick up from the store and go, here are my favorites:

  • Fruits - fruits can serve a double purpose to satisfy both hydration and hunger. My top picks are grapes, cut up watermelon or other melon, and berries.
  • Cheese - Individual cheese snacks (like string cheese, cheese sticks, or BabyBel cheese wheels) are a great thing to bring. Pair it with your fruit or eat it them on their own!
  • Veggies - Baby carrots and other low carb veggies slice well, pack easily and are great for dipping. Think celery, sliced bell peppers and sliced cucumbers.
  • Hummus & Crackers - Sometimes you can find the hummus and cracker dip packages at the store, and these are easy to take with you!

Drink Ideas for the Beach

  • Bottled Water - An obvious one, but plenty of water is important when sitting in the sun all day!
  • Lemonade - Homemade lemonade is one of the most refreshing things to drink on the beach. Pro tip - freeze some in advance so it stays cold much longer.
  • Cocktails: Summer cocktails are also a good choice!

Miscellaneous Items to Pack

Plastic Forks - One time I packed a salad for a beach day and completely forgot a fork. Spectators got a kick out of watching me try to eat it with my hands (dressing and all!) but it's best to pack extra silverware.
Paper Towels – Pro tip: pack them in a plastic bag so they don’t get all sandy.
Ice and/or Ice packs – To keep everything cold in your cooler!
Extra plastic baggies – You never realize how handy extras are until you need to put leftovers away!

What else do you think are beach-food essentials? What else would you add to your healthy beach packing list?

Have fun on your day at the beach! (And maybe take me with you?)

Bisquick Peach Cobbler

Bisquick Peach Cobbler: Indulge in the sweet and comforting flavors of a homemade peach cobbler, a classic dessert that promises to be the perfectly delicious way to finish any meal.

Bisquick peach cobbler spoonful, being held up above the baking dish of cobbler.

Similar to our peach cobbler with canned peaches, this peach cobbler cheesecake, and this peach cobbler with a cake mix, this delightful recipe combines the buttery richness of a golden cobbler crust with the juicy, spiced goodness of tender peaches, all with the convenience of a Bisquick mix. 

Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a quiet night in, this easy peach cobbler recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also certain to win over the hearts-and taste buds-of all who try it. Prepare to have your kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and baked peaches as you whip up this fabulous dish.

If you still have some peaches to use up, why not try making a Peach Mango Pie? Or if you fancy something a little more pastry-based, check out my Easy Peach Turnovers.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Seasonally versatile: Whether it’s the height of peach season or the dead of winter, this recipe effortlessly adapts, allowing you to use fresh or canned peaches so you can enjoy it year-round.
  • Kid-friendly: This cobbler’s simplicity and sweet flavor profile make it a hit with children, plus it’s a fun recipe where kids can join in on the baking process.
  • Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding different spices or fruits to the mix, making it a versatile base for creating a variety of desserts to match your cravings.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Bisquick Peach Cobbler:

Ingredients on kitchen counter with text of their names next to them.
  • Bisquick Original Pancake & Baking Mix – Keep in mind that the Bisquick mixture is key to an effortless and consistent cobbler topping, and the key ingredient in this rich and sticky sad cake. Maintain its shelf stability by storing it in an airtight container, and always spoon the mix into the measuring cup instead of scooping to prevent the dough from becoming too dense.
  • Canned Peaches – When using canned peaches, make sure to drain them well before adding to the recipe; this will prevent excess liquid from making the cobbler soggy. Opt for peaches canned in juice rather than syrup for a less sugary filling.
  • Cinnamon – A little cinnamon goes a long way in enhancing the flavor of peaches. Adding this warm spice to both the peach filling and the cobbler mix will create a harmony of flavors that intensifies the coziness of this classic dessert.

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

Substitutions

Sometimes substitutions are necessary because of ingredients that are unavailable or needed for dietary restrictions. Here are some suggestions that can help:

  • Bisquick – If you can’t find Bisquick, a homemade mix combining flour, baking powder, and fat (like shortening or butter) can be used in a pinch to emulate the original recipe’s ease and texture.
  • Granulated Sugar – Those watching their sugar intake might opt for alternatives like coconut sugar or even a reduced amount of honey or maple syrup. Adjust to taste, as sweetness levels can vary.
  • Cinnamon – If you don’t have cinnamon, you can get a similar warm, spiced flavor by using nutmeg or allspice as a substitute, but be mindful as these spices have a stronger flavor-use them in smaller quantities.
  • Canned Peaches – If fresh peaches are available, they make an excellent substitute for canned peaches. Simply slice the fresh peaches and simmer them with some water and sugar to soften and bring out their natural juices before using.
  • Light Brown Sugar – Light brown sugar can be replaced with a mix of white sugar and molasses (1 cup of white sugar to 1 tablespoon of molasses) to achieve a similar depth of flavor and moisture content. Alternatively, dark brown sugar can also be used for a deeper, more caramel-like taste.

Variations

  • For an extra texture and flavor twist, consider adding a layer of streusel topping to your cobbler before baking. Simply mix together equal parts brown sugar, flour, and oats with a generous portion of melted butter until crumbly, and sprinkle over the peach layer. 
  • Another delightful variation involves incorporating berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, into the peaches for a playful burst of tangy sweetness. 
  • If you’re a fan of nuts, a handful of chopped pecans or almonds can add a satisfying crunch. 

How to Make Bisquick Peach Cobbler

This cobbler recipe is broken into 2 components:

  • Prepare the ingredients
  • Cook the cobbler

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!

4 image photo collage showing how to add butter, make batter, season peaches and pour in batter in dish.

STEP 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place butter in a 9×13-inch pan and melt it in the oven while it is preheating.

STEP 2: Mix the Bisquick. In a medium bowl, combine Bisquick, sugar, and salt. Add milk and whisk until smooth. Set aside.

STEP 3: Preheat the pan. Remove the pan with melted butter from the oven once preheated.

STEP 4: Mix the peaches with other ingredients. In a large bowl, mix sliced peaches, brown sugar, white sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.

Three image collage showing to add peaches, sprinkle peaches with seasonings, and baking the cobbler.

STEP 5: Add the Bisquick. Pour the Bisquick batter into the pan over the melted butter, do not stir.

STEP 6: Add the peach mix. Evenly spoon the peach mixture on top of the batter.

STEP 7: Add the sugar mix. Combine 1 tablespoon of sugar with ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon and sprinkle over the peach mixture.

STEP 8: Cook the cobbler. Bake in the pre-heated oven for 50-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

STEP 9: Cool and serve. Allow the cobbler to cool for 15-30 minutes before serving. Serve warm cobbler, with ice cream if preferred.

Recipe Pro Tips

  • Thickness of Batter: The consistency of your batter greatly affects the texture of the cobbler topping. Aim for a pourable but thick consistency to ensure a fluffy outcome upon baking.
  • Fruit Layering: When layering the peaches over the batter, resist the urge to mix. This allows the batter to rise through the fruit and create a naturally crusted topping.
  • Golden Topping: For an even more desirable golden crust, brush the top with a small amount of melted butter in the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Baking Dish: Glass or ceramic baking dishes tend to yield the best results for evenly baked cobblers. Remember to adjust your baking time if you're using a dish that conducts heat differently than what’s suggested.
Serving of peach cobbler made with Bisquick on white serving plate, with spoon resting on the side.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use gluten-free Bisquick?

Yes, gluten-free Bisquick can be used for those with gluten sensitivities. However, the texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.

How can I make the cobbler dairy-free?

To make the cobbler dairy-free, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Also, use a dairy-free butter alternative for melting in the pan.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar in this recipe without affecting the outcome?

Reducing sugar in the recipe will alter the taste but not the baking process. Start by reducing the sugar by ¼ and adjust from there according to your preference.

What’s the best way to measure Bisquick for this recipe?

For an accurate measurement, spoon the Bisquick mix into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This method prevents the mix from compacting, which could lead to too much mix in the batter.

What to Serve with Bisquick Peach Cobbler

Pair this comforting Bisquick Peach Cobbler with a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the classic dessert experience. To balance the sweetness, you might also enjoy it alongside a cup of strong black coffee or an aromatic tea. 

For those seeking a more decadent treat, consider a scoop of salted caramel or cinnamon ice cream. And if you’re serving this at a Southern-inspired meal, a glass of sweet iced tea or a bourbon-based cocktail could be the perfect complement.

Storage

To maintain the cobbler’s freshness, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cool environment helps to preserve the moisture and flavor. 

You can also freeze leftover peach cobbler. First, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Similar Recipes You’ll Love

If you are in the mood for more fruity desserts, check out my Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake for those warmer summer days. Or go for a Pineapple Dump Cake that’s simple to make and full of tropical flavors.

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

Originally published: February 2024
Updated and republished: May 2025

Recipe

Bisquick Peach Cobbler serving on a. plate, with ice cream on top.
Print Pin
4.19 from 22 votes

Bisquick Peach Cobbler

Bisquick Peach Cobbler has sweet and comforting flavors – a classic dessert that promises to be the perfectly delicious way to finish any meal. 
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 178kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

Cobbler:

  • 10 tablespoons butter cut into tablespoons
  • 2 cups Bisquick Original Pancake & Baking Mix spooned into measuring cup and leveled
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar divided 2 + 1 tablespoons
  • Pinch of salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Peaches:

  • 2 29- ounce cans of peaches drained
  • ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ teaspoons vanilla
  • ¾ teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place butter in a 9×13 pan and place the pan in the oven to melt the butter while the oven preheats.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together Bisquick Mix, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and salt. Whisk in milk until smooth. Set aside.
  • Take the pan out of the oven when the butter is melted, about when the oven is preheated.
  • In a large bowl, stir together peaches, brown sugar, white sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon.
  • Pour Bisquick mix into the pan with the melted butter without mixing.
  • Spoon peach mixture over the top of the butter and bisquick mixture, placing evenly in the pan.
  • Mix 1 tablespoon of sugar and ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon and sprinkle over the peaches.
  • Carefully place the cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. Cobbler is done when it is golden brown and a toothpick test comes out clean.
  • Let cobbler cool 15-30 minutes and serve warm with ice cream if desired.

Video

Notes

  • Thickness of Batter: The consistency of your batter greatly affects the texture of the cobbler topping. Aim for a pourable but thick consistency to ensure a fluffy outcome upon baking.
  • Fruit Layering: When layering the peaches over the batter, resist the urge to mix. This allows the batter to rise through the fruit and create a naturally crusted topping.
  • Golden Topping: For an even more desirable golden crust, brush the top with a small amount of melted butter in the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Baking Dish: Glass or ceramic baking dishes tend to yield the best results for evenly baked cobblers. Remember to adjust your baking time if you're using a dish that conducts heat differently than what’s suggested.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 178kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 106mg | Potassium: 67mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 410IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 0.1mg

Breakfast Cookies

These breakfast cookies are made with ingredients you probably already have on hand, and are incredibly easy to make! Bake them in the oven, and serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee, or a glass of milk for the kids!

Simply mix together the ingredients (dry and wet separately first) and then bake! You’ll have breakfast or a snack, in just minutes!

Baked breakfast cookies on wire baking sheet.

More Breakfast Recipes You’ll Love:

Breakfast around here usually consists of bacon in the oven, eggs, breakfast sliders, or the classic bowl of cereal.

Every once in a while, I’ll throw in a batch of these Butternut Squash Pancakes because the kids can’t get enough of them, and I love that they’re eating squash for breakfast.

But these breakfast cookies are so great to make in advance, so the kids can just grab them and go in the morning, or so they can have a great snack in the afternoon.

What You’ll Need to Make These Breakfast Cookies:

Basic ingredients are used in this recipe but I’ll make a few notes about some of the key ingredients below, that you may find helpful.

Overhead shot of labeled ingredients sitting on counter.
  • Oats – I used old-fashioned oats for this recipe but you can use a different type of oat if needed.
  • Applesauce – I use regular applesauce but if you only have cinnamon on hand, that’s ok too!
  • Peanut butter – creamy or crunchy work for this recipe. Just the type you’d prefer.
  • Chocolate chips – regular or mini chocolate chips. You can even use butterscotch or white chocolate chips.

How to Make Breakfast Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Dry goods mixed together in glass mixing bowl.

In a large mixing bowl, add oats, flour, flaxseed, cinnamon, baking soda and chocolate chips. Stir to combine.

Wet ingredients mixed together in glass mixing bowl, for breakfast cookies.

Then, in a medium mixing bowl, add peanut butter, applesauce, honey, brown sugar, and egg. Stir to combine.

Wet and dry ingredients mixed together in glass bowl.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir well to incorporate all ingredients, and they’re ready for baking!

Breakfast cookies scooped in round balls, and placed on a baking sheet.

Scoop out small, round, balls of the cookie dough, and place them at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.

Breakfast cookies mashed on baking sheet, ready for baking.

Next, using your hand, or the bottom of a greased drinking glass, gently press down on each cookie to flatten. (You don’t have to flatten a lot, just a little to make a cookie shape.)

Breakfast cookie on counter, sitting next to small plate of more breakfast cookies.

Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes and remove from the oven.

Allow the cookies to rest on the cookie sheet for a couple of minutes, and then move to a wire cooling rack to finish cooling. Enjoy!

Love peanut butter in your cookies? Then you’ll also love these cake mix peanut butter cookies too!

More Breakfast Recipes

Recipe

Breakfast cookies sitting on wire cooling rack.
Print Pin
5 from 2 votes

Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies – This easy recipe is a great way to start your day, and even perfect for the kiddos for a quick bite before school!
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 21 minutes
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 123kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 2¼ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 Tablespoon ground flaxseed
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ cup chocolate chips
  • ½ cup natural creamy peanut butter
  • ⅔ cups unsweetened apple sauce
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 3 Tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add oats, flour, flaxseed, cinnamon, baking soda, and chocolate chips. Stir to combine.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, add peanut butter, applesauce, honey, brown sugar, and egg. Stir to combine.
  • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
  • Scoop a heaping tablespoon of cookie dough and place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Using clean hands or the bottom of a cup or bowl, smash the cookie so it flattens. The cookies do not spread out much during the baking process, so this step helps get the cookie shape. Add a few more chocolate chips on top for presentation.
  • Bake for 9-11 minutes or until cookies are a golden brown and have firmed up a bit.
  • Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool. Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Video

Notes

This makes a great hearty cookie for breakfast or snacks on-the-go, a guilt-free dessert option, or a high protein after school snack. Chocolate chips may be substitutes for raisins or similar dried fruit, or even nuts.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 123kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 77mg | Potassium: 79mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 20IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.8mg

No Bake Energy Balls

Energy balls are an easy no-bake recipe that is easy to make and a great snack to keep in the refrigerator. They are made of simple ingredients such as peanut butter, oats, honey, mini chocolate chips, a splash of vanilla, and a pinch of salt.

No bake energy balls in a small ramekin, sitting on fabric napkin.

I firmly believe that chocolate and peanut butter were meant to be one. They work together in peanut butter chocolate no-bake bars, no-bake chocolate oatmeal cookies, this peanut butter chocolate and toffee cake, and even a peanut butter pie.

It’s even delicious in these peanut butter chocolate brownies and this peanut butter fluff dip which are fantastic recipes for parties.

So when the two flavors come together in a snack that you can feel better about eating, it just makes sense to keep the ingredients on hand to make these energy balls.

Recipe Highlights

  • Great Snack: These energy balls are great for snacking on the road, at sports games, or even after school.
  • Simple Ingredients: The ingredients needed for this recipe are pantry staples and are more than likely on hand and can be made easily.
  • Quick Recipe: With just a 10-minute prep time, these energy bites are ready for chilling, and eating within 30 minutes.

Ingredients for No-Bake Energy Balls

Here’s what you’ll need to make the energy balls recipe. The full list of ingredients and instructions can be found in the recipe card below.

Ingredients on table for a no bake energy balls recipe.

A few notes about some of the key ingredients:

  • Oats: Old-fashioned oats or quick oats work in this recipe. It just depends on the texture you prefer.
  • Peanut Butter: I prefer using creamy peanut butter for this recipe, although crunchy could work. If you notice that the balls don’t hold together well, it could be due to the nuts, and less of the creamy hold, so adding more peanut butter may work best.
  • Chocolate Chips: Using mini chocolate chips works well for this recipe but regular-size chips can work too, especially if you prefer milk chocolate chips instead of the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips.
  • Salt: A pinch of salt added to sweet ingredients helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract: This adds a bit of depth to the recipe and it’s highly recommended, although if you don’t have it on hand, this recipe can still be enjoyed.

How to Make Energy Balls

Creamy peanut butter, honey, vanilla, salt and chocolate chips in mixing bowl.
1. Mix together peanut butter, honey, vanilla, salt, and chocolate chips.
Oats added in to mixing bowl with peanut butter honey mixture.
2. Add in the oats and stir to combine. Chill in the refrigerator.
No bake energy balls on platter.
3. Form the chilled mixture in to energy balls, and enjoy.

Recipe Tips:

How to Shape Mixture in to Energy Balls:

  • use clean hands
  • grab a small amount (what a bite-size would be) of the mixture
  • using your fingertips, gently press the mixture together to adhere the peanut butter to the oats to help secure the ingredients for a better hold
  • place the ball in to the palm of your hands and lightly rotate one hand in a clockwise motion, to form a ball.

Storing Instructions:

Store the energy balls in an air-tight container in the refrigerator or freezer so you can grab one as you wish.

Recipe FAQs:

Do energy balls really give you energy?

The peanut butter in the balls give protein and the oats provide carbohydrates which can give a burst of energy. However, if too much sugar is added (i.e. too many chocolate chips) this can provide a quick burst of energy but can lead to a sugar crash later.

How long can you keep energy balls in the fridge?

Energy balls are good in the refrigerator for 2 weeks.

What is a substitute for honey in protein balls?

Maple syrup, or agave syrup can be substituted for honey in energy balls.

Hand holding energy ball, next to plate of more energy balls.

Similar Recipes

If you love bite-size peanut butter snacks, then make sure to also see how we made cake-mix peanut butter cookies!

You’ll also love these sweet treats:

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

Recipe

No bake energy balls in small ramekin, sitting on fabric napkin.
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Energy Balls

No-bake energy balls are made of oats, peanut butter, honey, vanilla, a pinch of salt and mini chocolate chips.
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 14 energy balls
Calories 84kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 spoons
  • plate or baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 1 cup oats old-fashioned or quick
  • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter or ½ cup for creamier energy balls
  • ¼ cup honey
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup mini chocolate chips optional
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl, mix together the honey, peanut butter, vanilla, salt, and chocolate chips together until combined.
  • Add in the oats and stir to fully combine.
  • Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes.
  • Roll the mixture in to small, bite-size balls and enjoy or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to snack on.

Video

Notes

When rolling the balls:
  • use clean hands
  • grab a small amount (what a bite-size would be) of the mixture
  • using your fingertips, gently press the mixture together to adhere the peanut butter to the oats to help secure the ingredients for a better hold
  • place the ball in to the palm of your hands and lightly rotate one hand in a clockwise motion, to form a ball.

Nutrition

Serving: 1energy bite | Calories: 84kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 0.5mg | Sodium: 25mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 7IU | Vitamin C: 0.05mg | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Deer Steak Recipe – On the Stovetop

Deer Steak Recipe – Skillet: There are many deer steak recipes, but this quick & flawless recipe using browned butter, salt & pepper in a skillet, is great!

Deer Steak Recipes - How to cook deer steak on the stove

Deer Steak Recipe – On the Stovetop

The other night, I decided that I wanted deer meat for dinner. I had been looking at it in the freezer for a little while, and I knew it was time.

Now if you saw my first deer meat recipe…my Fried Deer Meat as seen below…

How to Cook Deer Meat: Fried Steak, Tenderloin & Backstrap

…then you know it’s my ALL TIME favorite thing to eat, and favorite way to eat deer meat.

So when I love something as much as that recipe, it’s hard from me to steer in a different direction of cooking deer meat.

Grill Deer Meat or Fry it in a Pan?

But for some reason, I didn’t have the heart to cut up these perfectly cut steaks into small pieces and decided to give searing them (like I did with my beef steak recipe) a try. I’m so glad that I did, because it turned out pretty tasty, and my family thought so too.

Should I Marinate Deer?

Well honestly, that’s totally up to you. I actually had 4 deer steaks in the package that I was using, so I decided to cook the deer steak, TWO different ways, in case you prefer one or the other.

If you have some time to allot to cooking your deer steak, and you prefer to have a marinade flavor, instead of the deer flavor… then I’d say go with this recipe below…

Note: I grilled the steaks in the deer steak marinade recipe below, but you can easily marinate them and fry them in a pan too!)

Get the Marinade for my Other Deer Steak Recipe HERE

How to grill and marinate deer steaks

Not Much Time? Want to Capture the Flavor of Venison?

Then this is a recipe you’ll love. It only uses butter, salt and pepper and is ready in minutes.

There’s something about the flavor of browned butter, salt and peppercorn medley on a cut of meat.

So if you’re ready to cook your deer steak, let’s get to it! (My mouth is watering just thinking about it!)

How to Cook Deer Steak

As with all of the recipes here on the blog, I’ll give tidbits of how to make the dish, throughout the photos in case you’re a visual person, but feel free to scroll to the bottom of this post for a straight-and-to-the-point, recipe card where it lists the ingredients and instructions.

Earlier I mentioned that I had 4 deer steaks thawed out, but that I split them up so I could do two in the pan and two on the grill for a future recipe. But I’m so glad that I did for this recipe too because these two deer steaks were big, and PLENTY for the three of us that were eating it.

Deer meat recipes - how to cook deer meat

Room Temperature Deer Steaks

You’ll want your deer steaks at room temperature, before cooking them. But if you roll like I typically do, you’ll find yourself ready to cook them when you get home, and there is no way your family is going to wait for the steaks to come to room temp before it’s time to cook and eat them. I get it. So it’s not a BIG deal at all.

What Happens if the Venison Steak’s NOT Room Temperature?

It’s not the end of the world. You may just need to tweak your cook time a little bit to reach the desired “doneness” that you prefer.

So just keep that in mind if you will.

Kosher salt and peppercorn medley pepper for cooking deer steaks

It’s Not Just Salt  + Pepper

Alright, listen up… when it comes to my meat, I SWEAR by kosher salt, peppercorn medley, and salted butter. I do this with my favorite steak recipe, my cheeseburger recipe… and now this deer steak recipe.

Do you HAVE to have kosher salt and peppercorn medley? Well no, but if you see it at the store next time, grab it. Or buy it on Amazon now, so you don’t forget —-> Buy the kosher salt and the peppercorn medley.

Season deer steak with salt and pepper

Butter is Love

Yeah, I know. I always say butter is my friend. But when it comes to cooking deer in a skillet or on the grill, butter is important for the “dryness” that can tend to take over with this lean meat.

Deer is more lean than beef (usually), so the fatty juices may not be in abundance with your deer steaks. So cooking in butter, and even brushing with butter (like I’ll show you in my grilled deer meat recipe coming soon), can help with keeping the steak from drying out.

Brown the Butter…

You’ll want to brown your butter before placing your deer steaks in the skillet. To me, there’s a BIG difference in the taste of melted butter and butter that has browned a little bit. Like, a heavenly difference.

Browned Butter in a cast iron skillet for deer steaks

Quick Tidbit about Steak Thickness

For this recipe, I used deer steaks that were about ½ inch thick.

Keep this in mind when you’re cooking yours, and following my times and cooking temps. Your steaks may be thinner or even thicker.

Steaks are about ½ inch thick - when cooking deer steaks

Cooking the Deer Steaks

Once my butter has browned, and the skillet is at medium-high heat, I place my seasoned steaks right in it. (Make sure that skillet hisses at you when you put that steak in, so you know it’s hot enough, ok?)

Cook the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Here’s where you want to watch it, depending on how you really want your steaks.

If you want them well-done, then you’ll want to cook them longer than the 3-4 minutes on each side.

We wanted ours about medium, so we stuck with 3-4.

Longer = Tougher

*** Just remember that the steaks keep cooking after you remove them from the skillet, and when you let it rest. I say this because if you’re wanting your steaks a specific temperature, deer meat will begin to get “tougher” the more it cooks.

How to cook deer steaks and deer meat on the stove

Rest + Butter

Once the steaks were done, I pulled them off of the cast iron, so they could rest (well, and so I could snag these photos), and I added another tablespoon of butter for good measure. (Not necessary. Well, unless you’re having me over for dinner of course, cause… I like butter.)

Oh that green stuff? Not necessary. I just threw it on for a Pinterest-friendly image, and because it was the only little sprig left of my fresh herb garden. I scorched the rest of the herb plants this summer already. (SMH)

Deer steak recipes - how to cook deer meat

Now that’s a good deer steak…

Deer steak medium - how to cook deer meat recipe

More Steak Recipes

If you’re a steak lover like those in our house, then you’ll definitely want to check out the ever so popular steak recipe here on the blog where I show you how to cook a steak in the oven!

Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Steak Recipe:

This is possibly the easiest recipe on the entire blog! Toss your pork steaks in the slow cooker with some bbq sauce and a little salt & pepper and follow these steps for slow cooker pork steaks!

So, tell me… what is YOUR favorite way to cook deer meat? I think frying the backstrap in flour is still my favorite, but when I have deer steaks handy, this recipe is definitely a good choice.

Recipe

Deer steaks on platter topped with butter and parsley.
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4.63 from 78 votes

Deer Steak Recipe – In a Skillet

Deer Steak Recipe – Skillet: There are many deer steak recipes, but this quick & flawless recipe using browned butter, salt & pepper in a skillet, is great!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Resting Time 3 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings 2 steaks
Calories 156kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ inch-thick deer steaks
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon peppercorn medley or to taste
  • 3 Tablespoon salted butter

Instructions

  • Allow steaks to come to room temperature. (Approx. 20-30 minutes.)
  • Coat deer steaks with salt and pepper.
  • Over medium-high heat, add butter to skillet, and let melt and brown.
  • When butter is melted and brown, gently place steaks in the skillet, making sure they don’t overlap one another.
  • If the skillet doesn’t sizzle at you, remove steak and wait until skillet is hotter.
  • Cook steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side.
  • Remove steaks from skillet and place on a plate to rest for 3-4 minutes. During this time, you can coat with more butter if you prefer, to help maintain a juicy deer steak.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1steak | Calories: 156kcal | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 46mg | Sodium: 734mg | Vitamin A: 530IU | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.1mg

Venison Marinade + Grilled Deer Steak Recipe

Venison Marinade and Grilled Deer Steak Recipe: This deer steak marinade is delicious for grilling or frying venison on the stovetop. I’m also sharing how to grill deer steaks, one of our favorites on how to cook deer steak.

Deer Meat Marinade Cooked on the grill

If you’re more of a “fried” recipe lover… then you’ll want to make sure that you grab my fried deer meat recipe that my dad let me share with all of you a while back (and even how to cut deer for best results) or use that air fryer to cook venison!

Venison Marinade Recipe

Poking around in the kitchen, I grabbed what I had on hand and what I thought would mix a great marinade.

I have to say, it turned out pretty good and honestly took out a lot of the gamey flavor.

So if you’re someone who doesn’t like such a strong “game” flavor in their meat, you may just love this marinade recipe. Plus, it uses ingredients that you more than likely have on hand!

Deer meat marinade recipe ingredients: soy sauce, hot sauce, brown sugar
Mix the deer marinade recipe mixed together in glass bowl.

You’ll find the complete recipe below, but I want to walk you through with pictures and tips along the way in case you’re more of a visual person.

Once you’ve mixed the marinade together in a bowl, it’s time to pour it over your steaks.

How to Marinate Deer Steaks

When it comes to marinating the steaks, I prefer to put them inside a plastic zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them.

It makes cleanup a breeze is easy to flip and turn the steaks around while marinating. But we’ll get in to that in just a second…

Raw deer steaks in plastic bag.

Pour your marinade over the steaks, inside the bag, and then seal it COMPLETELY.

Deer steaks in plastic bag with marinade.

Next you can either lay the steaks flat in the refrigerator, or you can place them inside a bowl.

I prefer to place them in a small bowl, so it really surrounds the steaks with the marinade, instead of the juices rolling around, not touching the meat.

However, when placing it in a bowl it’s a good idea to rotate the meat around after a few hours to make sure the bent areas get marinated too. 

Venison put in bowl to really force marinade to surround me, rotating often.

Allow the steaks to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, but preferably overnight.

I left my deer steaks in the refrigerator overnight and as you’ll see below, they came out with a perfect, marinated brown color from the juices! No, they’re ready for the grill!

Deer steak sitting on white plate after marinating.

How to Grill Deer Steak

If you have time, allow the steaks to come to room temperature before grilling.

Preheat your grill to high heat, and place your steaks on the hottest part of the grill and sear for 3-4 minutes.

Marinated venison steak on grill.

Brush with Melted Butter

Deer steaks are very lean and different than beef steaks, so coating with butter after grilling is a great way to prevent the deer from drying out.

Check out this amazing Garlic Herb Steak Butter if you’re feeling super creative!

When done, brush with butter for extra moisture and juicy steaks

Deer Steak Temperature

At 3-4 minutes over high heat, you’ll have a deer steak that’s medium. If you prefer your steaks to be cooked longer, that’s completely fine. Please just know that venison can overcook quickly and that steaks continue to cook even after you remove them from the grill.

Grilled marinated deer steak on white plate.
Sliced venison steak, cooked, on white platter.

This is an absolutely beautiful steak, and a great way to cook deer meat when hunting season is here! Serve this with some grilled mixed vegetables and you’ll have a delicious meal.

Bite of sliced marinated venison on fork.

How to Store Leftover Venison

The best way to keep leftover venison is to store in an air-tight container, once cooled off from cooking. Or, chop up in to little pieces and use in this venison chili recipe!

More Steak Recipes

If you’re a steak lover like those in our house, then you’ll definitely want to try this oven baked steak, where I show you how to cook a beefsteak in the oven that will make your mouth water!

Or if pork is more your style, these bbq pork steaks are a HUGE hit with over 250, 5-star ratings!

Recipe

Sliced of venison that was cooked with a deer marinade.
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4.82 from 27 votes

Deer Steak Marinade & How to Grill Deer Meat

This deer steak marinade is delicious for grilling or frying on the stovetop. I’m also sharing how to grill deer steaks, one of our favorites on how to cook deer steak.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 8 minutes
Servings 2 steaks
Calories 401kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ inch-thick deer steaks
  • 1 cup soy sauce
  • ¾ cup worcestershire sauce We use Lea & Perrins
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 5 dashes hot sauce or per taste
  • salt and pepper to taste Remember soy sauce has a LOT of salt already
  • 2 Tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  • In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, Worcheshire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, and salt and pepper.
  • Place steaks in gallon size ziptop bag and pour marinade over steaks, pushing out air, and sealing the bag.
  •  Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, preferably overnight, moving the bag around often to make sure all steaks sit in marinade at some point.
  • When ready to cook, remove steaks from the refrigerator and bring to room temperature, or as close as possible. (Do not microwave.)

  • Preheat grill to high heat and place steaks over the hot part of the grill, and grill on each side for 3-4 minutes.
  • Pull steaks off of the grill, coat with melted butter and let rest for 3-4 minutes.
  • Steaks will be a “medium” steak at this cook time. If you prefer steaks that are well done, cook on the grill an additional minute until steak reaches desired “doneness”. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1steak | Calories: 401kcal | Carbohydrates: 64g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 7611mg | Potassium: 1138mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 48g | Vitamin A: 435IU | Vitamin C: 13.4mg | Calcium: 164mg | Iron: 8.5mg

Taco Pasta Recipe

This Taco Pasta Recipe makes a great easy dinner idea and is a comfort food favorite! This is a recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes, uses simple ingredients, and has cheesy vibes that even the kids will love.

Taco pasta in skillet with fresh cilantro on top.

Pasta dishes for dinner are always a favorite in our house (especially this lasagna soup and this hamburger mac and cheese!) because they’re easy, filling, and comforting!

This taco pasta recipe is one of my favorite meals to make when I am short on time and energy and I’m craving comfort food. I love rotating it with this chicken spaghetti recipe made with Rotel.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy pasta recipe, and a few notes below about some of the key ingredients.

Ingredients for taco pasta on a dining room table.
  • Ground beef: I don’t see why you couldn’t use ground sausage, or ground turkey instead of beef if desired.
  • Velveeta: You won’t need to use the entire 16 ounce block, only have. Save the remaining Velveeta to make a small batch of Rotel Dip.
  • Taco sauce: You could also substitute salsa for this if needed. It helps give the recipe more warmth.
  • Shredded cheese: I believe that shredding your own cheese for recipes like this one always tastes better. However that’s not something I always want to do when I’ve had a long day, so know that pre-shredded cheese is great to use for this one too.
  • Milk: I use 2% but that’s just because it’s what I usually have on hand. Feel free to use a different type if needed.

Instructions

Here are these steps on how to make this taco pasta dish but you can find the full, detailed steps below in the recipe card.

Cooked ground beef in a skillet.
Rotel, milk and seasonings added to taco pasta.
  • Brown the ground beef and mined garlic and drain if necessary.
  • Add in the beef broth, Rotel, milk, taco seasoning, and taco sauce, and bring that to a boil.
Pasta shells added to taco mixture.
Shredded cheese and Velveeta added to taco skillet recipe.
  • Add in the pasta, reduce to a simmer, and cover to let the noodles become tender, to al dente.
  • When the pasta becomes tender, add in the cubed Velveeta, and shredded cheese and stir to melt in. Remove from heat.
Taco pasta ready to eat, in skillet with a wooden spoon.

Feel free to add chopped cilantro to the top, right before serving for color and added, fresh, flavor.

Taco pasta ready for serving, with fresh cilantro on top.

Additional Topping Ideas if Desired:

I have a big list of taco toppings if you’re looking for a lot of extra fun for your taco pasta but here are a few favorites:

  • crushed taco shells
  • chopped avocado
  • extra chopped tomato
  • extra grated cheese
  • corn
  • shredded lettuce
  • black olives

If you’re a taco fan, be sure to also check out this taco soup recipe.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers: Allow any leftovers to cool completely, and then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3-4 days.

If you love taco recipes, make sure you also try this walking taco casserole that’s delicious or these pasta favorites:

Recipe

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4 from 4 votes

Taco Pasta Recipe

This Taco Pasta Recipe is like if Rotel dip and tacos had a baby! This creamy kick of cheeses with taco seasoning is a favorite easy dinner.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 cups
Calories 474kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta shells ½ of a 1 pound box
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 Tablespoons taco sauce
  • 1 cup milk
  • 10 ounces canned diced tomatoes with green chilies undrained
  • 8 ounces Velveeta cheese cut in to cubes
  • 1 cup shredded fiesta blend cheese

Instructions

  • Cook the 1 pound of ground beef and minced garlic in a skillet over medium high heat, until meat is no longer pink. Drain grease if needed.
  • Add in taco seasoning, the 2 cups beef broth, 2 Tablespoons taco sauce, 1 cup milk, and 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and bring to a boil, stirring occassionally.
  • When boiling, reduce to a simmer, add the pasta, cover and stir occasionally and cook until the pasta is al dente.
  • When pasta is cooked, add in the shredded cheese and the Velveeta cheese. Stir until melted and remove from heat.
  • Serve with fresh cilantro on top (optional), and enjoy!

Video

Notes

If you like a little spice, feel free to add a few splashes of hot sauce or use spicy taco sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1.5cups | Calories: 474kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 1652mg | Potassium: 640mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 1227IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 520mg | Iron: 3mg

Instant Pot® Review: How to Use an Instant Pot®

Instant Pot® Review: How to Use an Instant Pot® – With so many recommending the Instant Pot® pressure cooker, I knew it was something I had to try for myself when it wasn’t seeming like just a fad anymore. I’m so glad that I did. I unboxed it, and made chicken breasts, all in a few minutes. 

Instant Pot Review - How to Use an Instant Pot

Instant Pot® Review

So I’m not going to lie. I’ve heard about the Instant Pot® for a long time, I seriously thought it would be old news in about a couple of months. But then, I started seeing more and more recipes pop up on my Pinterest feed, and even from friends in my Facebook groups, so I knew it was time to try this thing out.

During my self retreat, it was the perfect time to try this bad boy out. So I tapped “record” on my phone, and started filming from the moment I plopped the box up on the counter, so we could go on this pressure cooker journey together.

Instant Pot® Frozen Chicken Breasts:

For the first round of cooking in the “pot”, I thought frozen chicken breasts would be easy and something that I’d cook often in this bad boy.

With just a little salt and water (you have to put a little water or chicken broth in the bottom of the Instant Pot when you cook it), I had chicken breasts ready to eat in about 20 minutes. Say whaaa? Well, just watch in the video below and you’ll see.

No Time to Watch?

No worries, I put my cliff notes of the review and I’ve put a recipe card below to show you how to cook chicken breasts in the Instant Pot® for your quick reference.

So What’s My Overall Review of the Instant Pot®?

I’m in love. It took me a minute to get familiar with it, but the instruction manual helped me, and in just a couple of minutes I was rocking and rolling.

You do have to put some sort of liquid in it before cooking, determine which setting to “cook” it on, because each recipe will differ… and know that you CAN set the timer to whatever you want it to be.

For instance, if you’re cooking something that doesn’t have a “button” to match what you’re cooking (like “chicken”) no worries. You can choose which setting you want to cook it at, and put the timer on whatever time you want it to cook!

Instant Pot® How-To Cliff Notes:

  1. It will take a few minutes to build up pressure, before the timer starts and cooking starts.
  2. When the cooking begins, it will cook as long as the timer is set for.
  3. After the timer ends, it will naturally cool down unless the “keep warm” button is pushed. You can let it naturally cool down before taking the lid off (make sure the float has lowered back down)… OR you can let the steam out manually. Just be super careful!

Ready to Buy This Thing Too?

Now I know some of you probably already have one of these, and use it up to 5 nights a week. I totally understand why.

But for those of you who have been intimidated by this thing… be intimidated NO MORE! It was a breeze to use, and now I can’t wait to see what else I can cook in this thing.

Instant Pot® Hard Boiled Eggs?

So before I left my self retreat, I decided I must try to cook boiled eggs in this Instant Pot® too. I had heard that the shells peel off so easy and fast, and if that was even CLOSE to true… then it would be a miracle. Way too many times, I’ve been hangry and grumpy on Easter morning when my boiled eggs for deviled eggs came out wonky.

Recipe

Instant Pot Review - How to Use an Instant Pot
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5 from 1 vote

Instant Pot® Frozen Chicken Breasts

Even with frozen chicken breasts, you can have ready to eat chicken breasts in 20 minutes! Chicken breasts cooked in the Instant Pot® is incredibly convenient to eat on all week! 
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 chicken breasts
Calories 257kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • instant pot

Ingredients

  • 4 Frozen Chicken Breasts
  • 1-½ cups Water or Chicken Broth

Instructions

  • Pour water or chicken broth in the bottom of Instant Pot, and then chicken breasts.
  • Attach lid, and turn Instant Pot on, then press the "chicken" setting button on the front.
  • Instant Pot will read “on” while pressurizing, and then 15:00 should appear on the display.
  • Once the 15 minutes is up, you can let it naturally cool, or you can release steam from the float.
  • Chicken should be cooked and ready to eat!

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1chicken breast | Calories: 257kcal | Protein: 47g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 144mg | Sodium: 262mg | Potassium: 836mg | Vitamin A: 70IU | Vitamin C: 2.7mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 0.8mg

What Are Your Thoughts on This Pressure Cooker?

So tell me… what is YOUR favorite thing to make in an Instant Pot?

Or tell me if you’ve had one for a while and this gave you the confidence boost to give it a try!?

I can’t wait to hear from you!

Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs

Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs: So quick, easy and it made the shells peel off so easily, with the 5, 5 & 5 method!

See how long to cook the eggs, and how well they turn out in the quick video below, too!

Sliced hard boiled eggs on plate next to Instant Pot
Hard Boiled Eggs in the Instant Pot

If you watched my Instant Pot review of my Instant Pot®, and my first run at using it by cooking chicken breasts, then you know I fell in love with the thing immediately.

Now today, I’m going to show you how easy it is to make hard-boiled eggs with it and you will be AMAZED at how easy the shells come off of the eggs when they’re done. It’s an absolute game-changer! Then, you’ll want to see how we make these deviled eggs with candied bacon, and you’ll never want to make a classic deviled egg recipe, again!

How To Cook Eggs in the Instant Pot

In this quick, 7 minute video, I’ll show you from beginning to end, how to cook eggs in the Instant Pot®.

No Time to Watch the Video?

No problem, I wrote out the process below the video for your quick reference!

  1. Pour water into the bottom of Instant Pot®.
  2. Using trivet that came with your Instant Pot®, and place it into the bottom. 
  3. Gently place eggs on top of the trivet, and place lid on to Instant Pot®.
eggs inside of Instant Pot
Place eggs inside of Instant Pot
  1. Press “pressure cook”, and make sure it’s on “high pressure”. 
  2. Set the timer on the Instant Pot® to 5 minutes. (Make sure “keep warm” option is turned off.) 
  3. Pressure cooker will pressurize for about 5 minutes before the timer starts, then the timer will start when cooking.
  4. While cooking, prepare an ice bath to put the eggs in when eggs are finished cooking/cooling.
  5. After the timer runs out, let the pressure cooker naturally cool down. It will be safe to remove the lid when the stainless steel metal float, lowers back down inside of the lid. (Approx. another 5 minutes.) 
Cooked eggs in ice bath
Chill cooked eggs in ice bath
  1. Remove the lid and lift the trivet out (with tongs, or very carefully with hands/pot holder), then carefully place eggs into an ice bath for a couple of minutes. 
  2. Peel eggs and watch those shells practically fall off! 
Sliced hard boiled eggs on plate
Cooked and sliced hard boiled eggs

The inside of the eggs should have the perfect yellow color!

Tips

  • You can add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the water before cooking but we’ve found that it’s not a must. The shells still peel perfectly fine. However, if you’re using really fresh eggs, those can be harder to peel so it may be best to try baking soda.
  • The trivet is recommended above becuase it comes with the Instant Pot. However, we absolutely LOVE using the mesh steamer basket for making hard boiled eggs, that you can get separately.
Perfect center in hard boiled egg
Perfect yolk center in hard boiled egg

FAQ’s

What is the 5 5 5 method for eggs in Instant Pot?

It is 5 minutes to come to pressure, 5-minute cook-time and 5 minute natural release timing.

How long does it take eggs to boil in Instant Pot?

We’ve found that minutes does the trick!

How many eggs can you hard boil in an Instant Pot at one time?

We have cooked up to 18 eggs at one time in the Instant Pot. We have found that the eggs turn out just fine even if they’re stacked on top of one another, just as long as the eggs are not touching the lid. (Any more than 18 and you may need more than one cup of water too.)

Now, if you have a Ninja Foodie, did you know you can also make them in that? It’s true. See How to Make Hard-Boiled Eggs in Ninja Foodi!

Different Ways to Use Hard Boiled Eggs

If you’re looking for different ways you can use your hard-boiled eggs now, we love using them to make an Egg Salad Sandwich, putting them in this side salad recipe, or in a tuna salad sandwich. Or if making a potato salad, you could put them in this cauliflower potato salad or this Amish potato salad, which is also made using the Instant Pot!

Recipe

sliced hard boiled eggs on plate
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5 from 4 votes

Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs

Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs: So quick, easy and it made the shells peel off so easily, with the 5, 5 & 5 method!
Course Appetizer, Breakfast, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 12 eggs
Calories 62kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Equipment

  • Pressure Cooker (We use the Instant Pot)

Ingredients

  • 12 Eggs Can use less or more – see tips in post
  • 1 cup Water

Instructions

  • Pour water into the bottom of Instant Pot®.
  • Using trivet that came with your Instant Pot®, place it into the bottom. 
  • Gently place eggs on top of the trivet, and place lid on to Instant Pot®.
  • Press “pressure cook”, and make sure it’s on “high pressure”. 
  • Set the timer on the Instant Pot® to 5 minutes. (Make sure “keep warm” option is turned off.) 
  • Pressure cooker will pressurize for about 5 minutes before the timer starts, then the timer will start when cooking.
  • While cooking, prepare an ice bath to put the eggs in when eggs are finished cooking/cooling.
  • After the timer runs out, let the pressure cooker naturally cool down. It will be safe to remove the lid when the stainless steel metal float, lowers back down inside of the lid. (Approx. another 5 minutes.) 
  • Remove the lid and lift the trivet out (with tongs, or very carefully with hands/pot holder), then carefully place eggs into an ice bath for a couple of minutes. 
  • Peel eggs and watch those shells practically fall off! 

Video

Notes

How many eggs can you hard boil in the Instant Pot at one time?
We have cooked up to 18 eggs at one time in the Instant Pot. We have found that the eggs turn out just fine even if they’re stacked on top of one another, just as long as the eggs are not touching the lid. (Any more than 18 and you may need more than one cup of water too.)

Nutrition

Serving: 1egg | Calories: 62kcal | Protein: 5g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 163mg | Sodium: 63mg | Potassium: 60mg | Vitamin A: 240IU | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 0.8mg

The BEST Rice Krispie Treats

What makes these rice krispie treats the best? Adding a bit of milk to the marshmallows makes them creamy and helps make them become a gooey treat that’s hard to beat!

Rice krispie treats on wooden cutting board.

Even though we absolutely love these chocolate rice krispie treats, these cookies and cream rice krispie treats, and of course… these caramel rice krispie treats, sometimes there’s nothing better than classic homemade rice krispie treats.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • It’s a classic! You’ll commonly find this favorite dessert at family gatherings, holidays, summer BBQs, and many more events. It’s something that guests see on the table and they trust it! So why not be the one to bring the best rice krispie treat recipe there is?
  • No bake: When you need something to travel or you simply don’t want to have to worry about keeping a dessert cold or warm, this is a great option! It’s great for camping, boating, and many more trips!
  • Bakery style: Have you ever been to a bakery where the delicious treats are large, thick, and look so appealing? If made using the tips below, you can have your own bakery-style treats too!

Ingredients Needed

I’ve highlighted a couple of ingredients with some relevant notes. Aside from this, the ingredients needed are pretty basic.

Ingredients for rice krispie treats on a white counter.
  • Butter – We use unsalted for this recipe but you can use salted if you prefer. Sometimes the slight saltiness combined with the sweetness is the perfect touch.
  • Milk – You can use whole milk or 2% for this recipe, or even see the substitution ideas below for a twist.
  • Marshmallows – Did you know you can make rice krispie treats with marshmallow fluff too? That may be something you want to try next time!

Substitutions

Sometimes switching things out can be fun, or a necessity if you’re short on items. Here are some ideas of what can be substituted if you’d like:

  • Cereal – It’s easy to switch the types of cereal out if needed. Some ideas that we’ve tried or these Fruity Pebbles treats and these Lucky Charms treats. However, you can also try Cheerios, Golden Grahams, and more.
  • Milk – if you’re short on milk, check to see if you have a can of sweetened condensed milk on hand for a substitute.

How to Make this Classic Dessert

*Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full ingredients list & instructions!*

Prepare a 9X13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.

Melted butter in stock pot for rice krispie treats.
Image 1
Milk and vanilla added to butter in stock pot for rice krispie treats.
Image 2

STEP 1. Butter. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter (Image 1).

STEP 2. Marshmallow mixture. Then add the milk and vanilla extract (Image 2).

Marshmallows added to stock pot with butter, milk and vanilla.
Image 3
Melted marshmallows being lifted up on wooden spoon.
Image 4

STEP 3. Marshmallow mixture. Next, add the mini marshmallows to the butter mixture (Image 3).

Step 4. Melt. Stirring constantly, melt marshmallows over low heat until they are fully melted. This may take around 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat (Image 4).

Rice krispies add to melted marshmallows in stock pot.
IMage 5
Wooden spoon stirring marshmallows and rice krispies.
Image 6

STEP 5. Add cereal. Next, stir in the rice krispie cereal until it’s fully mixed in (Images 5 & 6).

Rice krispie marshmallow treats poured in to baking pan.
Image 7

STEP 6. Press in pan. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, gently pressing the mixture down.

Tip: Don’t press too hard, as this can make the treats hard. (See more tips below.)

Rice krispie treat square on white background.

STEP 7. Cool and cut. Let it cool and stiffen, and then cut into squares and enjoy!

Recipe Pro Tips

  • Nonstick Pressing. Use the back of a spoon, the bottom of a smooth juice glass, or even your fingers, that’s greased with cooking spray will make it even easier and less sticky when pressing.
  • Thinner treats. If preferred, you can place the treats in a half sheet pan and this will result in a thinner rice krispie bar.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Rice Krispie Treats the night before?

You can, even though they’re best enjoyed the day of. Just make sure to store them properly to ensure freshness.

What is the best way to cut Rice Krispie Treats?

Once cooled, you can dump the large rectangle of treats on to a cutting board and then cut them evenly. However, you can also cut them right in the pan if needed.

Do you freeze or bake rice crispy treats?

Neither. However, you can freeze rice krispie treats if needed.

Storage

Store any leftover rice krispie treats in an airtight container or plastic bag. Make sure it is sealed the best way possible, to help the treats stay soft and fresh for as long as possible.

Wrap properly in freezer paper and in a freezer bag or freezer container for up to 1-2 months. Remove from freezer and allow to call at room temperature and then enjoy.

More No-Bake Recipes

If you love no-bake recipes, then you’ll love these other treats that can be made with no oven or cooking involved, especially these fun carrot cake rice krispie treats.

Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a “star” rating below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, come back to Fantabulosity to browse all of my easy recipes!

Recipe

Rice krispie treats on wooden board.
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5 from 4 votes

The BEST Rice Krispie Treats

This rice krispie treats recipe is made with milk, making the marshmallows more creamy and the treats gooey and soft!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Cooling time 1 hour
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 16 squares
Calories 198kcal
Author Jessica Burgess

Ingredients

  • ½ cup butter
  • 2 Tablespoons milk
  • 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 10 cups mini marshmallows
  • 10 cups puffed rice cereal

Instructions

  • Prepare a 9X13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
  • In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Then add the milk,vanilla extract and the mini marshmallows.
    Stirring constantly, melt marshmallows over low heat until they are fully melted. This may take around 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat.
  • Next, stir in the rice krispie cereal until it's fully mixed in.
  • Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, gently pressing the mixture down. (Don't press too hard, as this can make the treats hard.)
  • Let it cool and stiffen, an then cut into squares and enjoy!

Video

Notes

These result in soft, thick treats! You can use a larger pan if you prefer treats that are thinner.
Tip: 
Grease whatever you use to gently press the treats in, with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
How to store leftovers:
Store any leftover rice krispie treats in an airtight container or plastic bag. Make sure it is sealed the best way possible, to help the treats stay soft and fresh for as long as possible.
Wrap properly in freezer paper and in a freezer bag or freezer container for up to 1-2 months. Remove from freezer and allow to call at room temperature and then enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 198kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 72mg | Potassium: 21mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 180IU | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.4mg