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    Home » Recipes

    Recipes

    The Best Scalloped Potatoes Ever!

    March 6, 2020

    These classic creamy, cheesy Scalloped Potatoes make the perfect indulgent side dish at your holiday dinner or any occasion.

    photo of baked scalloped potatoes in a baking dish with a spoon lifting the potatoes

    This is an update to my very first recipe post, originally posted April 9, 2012. Updated March 6, 2020.

    What is your favorite Easter food? I like ham, but my favorites are the sides and appetizers. I love deviled eggs, asparagus, potatoes, all of it.

    Back in 2012 when I started this blog I had only ever made escalloped potatoes (know by most as simply scalloped potatoes) a few times, and although I knew what the ingredients were, I wasn't sure how long to bake them for or at what temperature, so I went into my cabinet of cookbooks (yes, I have a kitchen cabinet full of them!) to find a scalloped potatoes recipe and saw April 2012's Food Network Magazine. I ended up adapting their recipe titled Extra-Creamy Scalloped Potatoes.

    How do you make scalloped potatoes from scratch?

    Slice russet potatoes really thin using a food processor or by hand to ⅛ inch thick. If you are doing it by hand, you don't have to be a exactly ⅛ inch, just make sure they are as evenly sliced as you can.

    photo of a pot filled with thinly sliced potatoes

    Mix together cream, milk, flour, and seasonings in a bowl and pour it over the potatoes. Bring them to a simmer over medium-low heat, adjusting the heat to keep it at a low simmer and cook until the potatoes are just starting to soften.

    photo of potatoes in a pot covered with cream

    Transfer to a 2 ½ quart baking dish coated with butter.

    photo of a buttered baking dish

    photo of potatoes with cream in a baking dish

    Bake for 50 minutes covered, then top with shredded cheddar cheese. It's best to use freshly shredded rather than store-bought pre-shredded because freshly shredded melts better.

    photo of potatoes topped with shredded yellow cheddar cheese in a baking dish

    Put them back in the oven and continue to bake until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.

    photo of baked scalloped potatoes with melted cheddar cheese on top

    These are definitely the best scalloped potatoes I have ever had! Everyone loved them that Easter and I've made them almost every year since. They pair well with ham, roast beef, roast chicken, and pork.

    More side dish potato recipes:

    Cream Cheese and Parsley Mashed Potatoes

    Fried Potatoes with Oyster Mushrooms and Brie

    Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes 

    Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes 

    WANT EVEN MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM MYSELF AND MY FAVORITE FOOD BLOGGERS? FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, OR FACEBOOK, WHERE I SHARE NEW RECIPES DAILY. YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL TO GET NEWLY POSTED RECIPES FOR FREE!

    Photo of scalloped potatoes topped with cheese and parsley in a round white bowl
    Print Recipe
    3.84 from 6 votes

    The Best Scalloped Potatoes Ever!

    Creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes that pair well with ham. Great for Easter dinner!
    Prep Time15 minutes mins
    Cook Time1 hour hr
    Total Time1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
    Course: Side Dish
    Servings: 6 -8
    Calories: 422kcal
    Author: Bernadette

    Ingredients

    • 2 pounds russet potatoes peeled and sliced ⅛ inch thick (we used a food processor for this)
    • 2 cups heavy cream
    • 1 cup milk
    • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
    • 1 bay leaf
    • ¼ teaspoon dried nutmeg
    • salt and ground white pepper to taste
    • about 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese

    Instructions

    • Whisk the cream, milk, flour, bay leaf, nutmeg, salt and pepper in a bowl. Put the sliced potatoes in a pot and pour the cream mixture over the potatoes. Cook over medium heat stirring gently until the cream comes to a simmer. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Once the potatoes start to simmer, continue simmering until they just begin to soften, about 5 more minutes.
    • Prepare a 2 ½ quart baking dish by using a paper towel and about 1 tablespoon butter, rubbing the butter throughout the dish. Transfer the potato mixture to the baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. Sprinkle shredded cheese over potatoes and bake, uncovered, until cheese is just beginning to brown.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 422kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Cholesterol: 112mg | Sodium: 55mg | Potassium: 743mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1230IU | Vitamin C: 9.1mg | Calcium: 117mg | Iron: 1.4mg

     

     

    Poached Haddock In Herbed Broth

    February 27, 2020

    photo of a flower trimmed bowl with a piece of Poached Haddock in Herbed Broth

    Vegetarian Poached Haddock In Herbed Broth with dill, chives, and parsley, is a quick and easy to make dinner entree perfect for Lent.

    photo of a flower trimmed bowl with a piece of Poached Haddock in Herbed Broth

    Not only is it Lent but we are trying to eat healthier again. I'm working on us being on the Mediterranean diet, for dinner anyway.  Less meat, more fish, vegetables, and fruit. Paired with a vegetable and a salad, this poached fish recipe is perfect for the diet.

    What is poaching and how do you make poached haddock?

    Poaching, in cooking terms, means to cook in simmering liquid. Poached eggs is probably the most common, but fish, chicken, and some fruits can also be poached.

    Haddock can be poached in water, vegetable or chicken broth, or milk. Use a pan large enough to have the broth completely cover the haddock, bring the broth to just steaming before adding the fish, and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Do not let it come to a boil. The fish needs to be completely covered in the broth because it will be impossible to turn it without breaking.

    Cut haddock fillets into pieces in order to fit in the pan.

    photo of uncooked haddock fillets on an orange plate

    Using a large saute pan, bring non-tomato based vegetable broth (I use Swanson's) to just steaming before adding the haddock pieces.

    photo of haddock fillets in vegetable broth

    Then add in the herbs. I use dill, parsley, and chives. Paprika and minced garlic would also be good.  Add in some lemon juice, and simmer for 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to make sure it stays at just a slow simmer.

    photo of haddock simmering on a stovetop

    I serve this poached haddock recipe with a salad and brown rice on the side, with the fish in a shallow bowl with some of the broth.

    Here are some more fish recipes for Lent or anytime:

    Baked Salmon Patties 

    Garlic Butter Crab Pasta 

    Italian Panko Baked Haddock 

    Honey Garlic Salmon

    WANT EVEN MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM MYSELF AND MY FAVORITE FOOD BLOGGERS? FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, OR FACEBOOK, WHERE I SHARE NEW RECIPES DAILY. YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL TO GET NEWLY POSTED RECIPES FOR FREE!

    Close up photo of a shallow bowl with poached haddock in herbed broth

    photo of a flower trimmed bowl with a piece of Poached Haddock in Herbed Broth
    Print Recipe
    4 from 2 votes

    Poached Haddock in Herbed Broth

    Vegetarian Poached Haddock In Herbed Broth with dill, chives, and parsley, is a quick and easy to make dinner entree perfect for Lent.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time10 minutes mins
    Total Time15 minutes mins
    Course: MAIN COURSES/ENTRÉES
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: haddock recipe, poached fish
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 92kcal

    Ingredients

    • 1 pound haddock fillets
    • 2 cups vegetable broth (non-tomato based, like Swanson's)
    • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
    • 1 teaspoon chopped dill weed
    • 1 tablespoon chopped chives
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    • salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions

    • Cut the haddock into pieces as needed to fit into a large saute pan, then pat them dry.
    • Heat the broth over medium-high heat in the saute pan until just steaming. Reduce the heat, add the fillets, herbs, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Keep at a low simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
    • Serve with some of the broth and whatever sides you like.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 92kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 712mg | Potassium: 324mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 432IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg

    The Best Soup Recipes For Any Occasion

    February 21, 2020

    Collage photo of various kinds of bowls of soup with text The Best Soup Recipes

    Winter weather calls for a comforting bowl of soup. The Best Soup Recipes can be found here in this wonderful collection full of all kinds of soup!

    Collage photo of various kinds of bowls of soup with text The Best Soup Recipes

    Originally posted October 6, 2013. Updated February 21, 2020.  

    I could eat soup every day, and sometimes I do! I included some of my favorites here, but trust me, I have more to come. This roundup includes all kinds of soup recipes, from cheese soups, beef soups, chicken soups, vegetable soups, and chilled soups for the summertime. I organized them into the following categories so you can easily find exactly what you're looking for.

    • Cheese Soups
    • Chicken and Turkey Soups
    • Chilled Soups
    • Beef and Pork Soups
    • Vegetable, Bean, and Lentil Soups
    • Seafood Soups

    How do you make the best soup?

    The best soup recipes start with homemade stock, when possible. If not, my favorite brand is Kitchen Basics. Use fresh vegetables and herbs, cooking them until they are just tender for non-puréed soup, or very tender for puréed soups. Don't add salt while cooking, let people add it at the table if they want it, to keep your soups lower in sodium.

    Most soups freeze well, so make a lot and freeze it in serving size containers that can be heated in the microwave for an easy lunch. I often freeze soups in larger containers and reheat the whole thing for a dinner I don't have to cook that night.

    What can I serve with soup?

    Salads, crusty bread, and cornbread are great choices to serve with your favorite soup. Both red and white wines are great choices for a drink, pairing red with beef soups and white with chicken soups. Tequila based drinks like a margarita pairs well with some Mexican soups.

    Below you will find more than 80 of The Best Soup Recipes. Enjoy!

    Cheese Soups

    collage photo of three bowls of soup

     

    Instant Pot Cheesy Cauliflower Soup from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    Philly Cheesesteak Soup from Ann's Entitled Life®

    Broccoli and Bacon Beer Cheese Soup from It's Yummi

    Really Excellent Beer Cheese Soup from My Soup For You

    Nutty Blue Cheese Apple-Parsnip Soup from The Hungry Belgian

    Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Soup from The Keto Queens

    Cheesy Ham, Potato and Broccoli Soup from Cooking with Mary and Friends

     Chicken and Turkey  Soups

    Collage photo of three bowls of different kinds of chicken soup.

    Roasted Chicken Broth From Rants From My Crazy Kitchen (the base for many great soups)

    Chicken and Gnocchi Soup from LifeScoops

    Chicken Sopas (Chicken Macaroni Soup Flipino Style) from The Unlikely Baker

    Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Chili from Flavor Mosaic

    Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup from Caramel Living

    Cheesy Chipotle Chicken Sausage Chowder from Cupcakes and Kale Chips

    Chicken Wing Soup from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    Thai Coconut Turkey Soup from The Endless Meal

    Slow Cooker Cauliflower Chicken Tortilla Soup from Food Done Light

    Turkey Noodle Soup from Our Life Tastes Good

    Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    Chicken and Wild Rice Soup from Margaret's Morsels

    Homestyle Gnocchi Soup from FoodThoughtsOfaChefWannabe

    Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup from Curious Cuisiniere

    Mediterranean Crockpot Chicken Soup from Nom Eat Nom

    Albondigas from My Turn for Us

    Quick Turkey Chili from Cherished Bliss

    Chilled Soups

    Collage photo of three kinds of chilled soups

    Chilled Chickpea Soup from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    Zucchini Noodle Gazpacho from Homemade and Yummy

    Spicy Tofu Carrot Cream with a Twist of Chorizo from Del's Cooking Twist

    Gazpacho with Crab from My Soup For You

    Cool Cucumber Watercress Soup from My Soup For You

    Watermelon Gazpacho from Curry Trail

    Chilled Fruit Soup from My Soup For You

    Beef and Pork Soups 

    Collage photo of four bowls of Beef Soups

    Prime Rib Soup from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    One Pot Beef Tortellini Soup from The Toasty Kitchen

    Lentil and Spinach Soup with Italian Sausages from Manila Spoon

    Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup from Moore or Less Cooking Blog

    Ham Chowder in the Crock Pot from My Recipe Round Up

    Noodles and Ground Beef Soup (Campbell's Copycat) from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    Zesty Crockpot Italian Pasta Soup from Juggling Real Food and Real Life

    Slow Cooked Beef Stew from Rachel's Basic Bites

    Tuscan Soup from Southern With A Twist

    Ham and Corn Chowder from In The Kitchen with Jenny

    Chili, Like Wendy's from Love Bakes Good Cakes

    Instant Pot Spicy Pork Stew from Two Sleevers

    Slow Cooker Braised Beef and Mushroom Soup from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    White Bean, Kale and Smoked Sausage Soup from Tales From a Middle Class Kitchen

    Sensational Skinny Reuben Soup from SkinnyKitchen

    Gulyas Soup from Hungarian Food Guide

    Vegetable, Bean, and Lentil Soups

    Collage photo of three bowls of vegetable soups

    Pumpkin Soup from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    Coconut and Thai Red Curry Lentil Soup from A New York Foodie

    Easy Mexican Bean Soup from Veggie Desserts

    Super Skinny Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup from SkinnyKitchen

    Spinach Egg Drop Soup from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    Vegetable Soup from Margaret's Morsels

    from Sugar Dish Me

    Butternut Squash Soup from A New York Foodie

    Vegan Instant Pot Asparagus Soup from Piping Pot Curry

    Late Summer Minestrone from The Clever Carrot

    Roasted Yellow Tomato Soup from Erica's Recipes

    Butternut Squash Soup with Toasted Cashews from What A Girl Eats

    Crockpot Butternut Squash and Apple Bisque from Meal Planning Maven

    Cajun Pumpkin Soup from The Hungry Belgian

    Indian Lentil Soup from Box of Spice

    Carrot Soup from Divya's Culinary Journey

    Yum Daal (Lentil) and Butternut Squash Soup from CupcakeLuvs

    Rasam from Yes I Can Cook

    Carabaccia: Italian Onion Soup from Sumptuous Spoonfuls

    Escarole Bean Soup With Chicken from The Extruded Noodle

    Mexican Roasted Poblano and Corn Soup from Life Currents

    Black Bean and Vegetable Soup from FlavorNspice

    Roasted Vegetable Soup from A Calculated Whisk

    PB & J Pumpkin Soup from Sherry K Jazzy Gourmet

    African Red Curry Peanut Soup from A New York Foodie

    Easy Peasy Canned Pumpkin Soup from Make The Best of Everything

    Tomato Florentine Soup from Chicago Foodie Sisters

    Thai Butternut Squash Soup from Let's Cook At Home


    Seafood Soups

    Collage photo of three kinds of seafood soups

    Crab Bisque from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    Healthy Mexican Seafood Soup from Beyond Mere Sustenance

    Zuppa di Pesce (Italian Fish Soup) from Sunday at the Giacometti's

    Laska from With A Spin

    Miso Soup with Poached Egg from Lemony Thyme

    Spicy Coconut Shrimp Soup from The Spice Train

    Spinach Clam Soup from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen

    Caldo de Camarón from Mama Maggie's Kitchen

    If you managed to get through all that and are still looking for more, here is my entire category of soup and stew recipes.

    Romantic Valentine's Day Dinner Recipes

    February 11, 2020

    Collage photo of a variety of Romantic Valentine's Day Recipes

    Enjoy Valentine's Day at home with these Romantic Valentine's Day Dinner Recipes.With appetizers, main dishes, and desserts, there is everything you need for the perfect Valentine's Day.

    Collage Photo of Romantic Valentine's Day Recipes showing individual dishes

    Originally published on February 13, 2018. Updated February 11, 2020.  

    How do I make a romantic Valentine's Day Dinner?

    When I first published this collection, Valentine's Day was on a weekday, with it making sense that many people would be staying home for dinner. Or maybe, it's cheaper and nicer to cook at home.

    I'm sure there are many people who need romantic Valentine's Day dinner ideas, so I put together this list of some of my recipes and those of my food blogging friends.

    I've organized these Valentine's Day Dinner Recipes below by appetizers, main dishes, and desserts so you can find everything you need. Just click on the recipe titles below to be taken to the recipes.

    Romantic Appetizers:

    Bacon Wrapped Cauliflower With Dark Chocolate

    photo of Bacon Wrapped Cauliflower with Dark Chocolate on a glass platter

     

    A unique and impressive appetizer or side dish, these are amazing bites of deliciousness!

    Clam Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms

    photo of a Clam Stuffed Portabella Mushroom on a small flowered plate

     

    These Clam Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms are made like a copycat version of Olive Garden’s Stuffed Mushrooms, only bigger and better!

    Baked Seafood Stuffed Avocados 

    photo of a baking dish of baked seafood stuffed avocados

     

    Crab and shrimp stuffed avocados make a great appetizer for a romantic dinner.

    Exquisite Dinners:

    Homemade Fresh Crab Cakes

    Photo of a plate of crab cakes with green beans in the background

     

    Made with real crab and the perfect amount of seasoning. They are a little expensive to make, but totally worth it!

    Pan Seared Chicken with Gouda Cream Sauce 

    Photo of a plate with two pieces of pan seared chicken topped with gouda cream sauce

     

    Boneless chicken breasts with a simple marinade, pan seared, and topped with Gouda cheese sauce. This chicken recipe is easy enough for any weeknight dinner.

    Quick Chicken Francese 

    photo of a plate of chicken francese over a bed of wild rice

     

    This Chicken Francese is quick and easy to make, with a wonderful sauce made with a rich chicken stock, white wine, and lemon slices. Thin chicken cutlets speed up cooking time, making Valentine's Day dinner ready in less than 30 minutes.

    Pan Seared Ahi Tuna with Maple Sriracha Soy Sauce 

    photo of a plate with pan seared ahi tuna with a bowl of maple sriracha soy sauce and vegetables on the side

     

    Flavorful Ahi Tuna Steaks with a sweet, spicy, and salty sauce you can serve over the tuna or on the side as a dipping sauce. Quick and easy to make, you will have a fancy restaurant-style dish ready in less than thirty minutes!

    Beer Marinated Grilled Porterhouse Steak

    photo of a plate with beer marinated grilled porterhouse steak topped with arugula and blue cheese next to a can of beer.

     

    Share this beer marinated grilled porterhouse steak topped with sauteed onions, blue cheese crumbles, and arugula with your love. If it's warm enough to grill where you are, or you are braver than me.  Trust me, they will love you!

    Crab Lasagna Rolls with Blue Cheese Sauce

    photo of two Crab Lasagna Rolls with Blue Cheese Sauce on a plate

     

    Creamy, cheesy crab lasagna rolls filled with fresh crab, spinach, and Italian cheeses, then topped with a flavorful blue cheese sauce makes a great date night dinner.

    Veal and Crab Florentine

    photo of two pieces of Veal and Crab Florentine on a plate

     

    Fine dining restaurant quality Veal and Crab Florentine, perfectly cooked veal topped with spinach, flaked crab, and sliced tomatoes in a seasoned broth made at home in under an hour. This makes a great weeknight Valentine's Day dinner! I have a vegan version of this recipe, as well, Vegan Mushroom Florentine.

    Homemade Penne Alla Vodka 

    photo of a large bowl of Homemade Penne Alla Vodka

    Homemade vodka sauce over your favorite pasta is great anytime, easy to make and less expensive than going to a restaurant.

    Browned Butter Garlic Parmesan Scallops

    Photo of a pan of browned butter garlic parmesan scallops

     

    This is the quickest and easiest of the romantic Valentine's Day dinner recipes on here, they are fancy enough for a special occasion yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. They only take 15 minutes to make.

    Seafood Campanelle with Spinach Pesto

    photo of seafood campanelle with clams and mussels over campanelle pasta topped with spinach pesto

     

    A quick and easy, yet elegant Valentine's Day dinner entree, Seafood Campanelle with Spinach Pesto is perfect for special occasion dinners.

    Finally, my favorite romantic dinner recipes posted since this was originally written, Garlic Butter Crab Pasta.

    Photo of Garlic Butter Crab Pasta on a white plate with the title written at the bottom

    This Garlic Butter Crab Pasta made quick and easy with sauteed garlic in butter tossed with flaked canned crab  mixed with angel hair pasta is perfect for Valentine's Day dinner.

    Luxurious Desserts:

    Strawberry Oreo BonBons

    photo of Strawberry Oreo Bonbons in red and white wrappers

     

    These Strawberry Oreo BonBons from Around My Family Table are easy to make and have only three ingredients.

    Chocolate Dessert Lasagna

    photo of a pan of Chocolate Dessert Lasagna

     

     (sometimes called chocolate lush) is a no bake chocolate dessert that is completely irresistible! Layers of chocolate pudding, cream cheese, whipped cream, and chocolate chips sit on a chocolate cookie crust. I think chocolate lasagna may be the best chocolate dessert recipe to make when you need an easy chocolate fix! This post from It's Yummi includes a Weight Watchers Freestyle recipe option, too!

    Deep Dish Gluten Free Red Velvet Brownies For Two

    photo of a white round baking dish with a Gluten Free Red Velvet Brownie

     

    Gluten-Free Red Velvet Brownies for Two from Cupcakes and Kale Chips are the perfect dessert for two when love is in the air and Valentine’s Day is right around the corner.

    I hope you enjoyed this collection of Romantic Valentine's Day Dinner Recipes!

    WANT EVEN MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM MYSELF AND MY FAVORITE FOOD BLOGGERS? FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, OR FACEBOOK, WHERE I SHARE NEW RECIPES DAILY. YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL TO GET NEWLY POSTED RECIPES FOR FREE!

    Collage photo of a variety of Romantic Valentine's Day Recipes

     

     

    Cajun Shrimp Pasta

    February 6, 2020

    photo of a blue rimmed plate of Cajun Shrimp Pasta with pappardelle pasta and creamy tomato sauce

    This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is made with broiled Cajun seasoned shrimp and served with your favorite pasta and creamy tomato sauce.

    photo of a blue rimmed plate of Cajun Shrimp Pasta with pappardelle pasta and creamy tomato sauce

    This creamy tomato shrimp pasta can be so easy to make it could be a weeknight dinner, or make it a bit fancier with Homemade Vodka Sauce for a special occasion like Valentine's Day.

    How to make easy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

    The day before, defrost large raw shrimp in the refrigerator or in a plastic bag submerged in cold water. Peel the shells off and remove the tails. Place in a covered container and refrigerate until needed.

    Cook your favorite pasta according to the package directions. I like pappardelle pasta, which is long, wide noodles.  Keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.

    Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and place on a baking sheet.

    photo of raw shrimp on a baking sheet

    Toss with olive oil and your favorite Cajun seasoning. I prefer Weber N'Orleans Cajun Seasoning, but use whatever you like. You could even skip the Cajun part altogether and use another seasoning.

    photo of raw shrimp tossed with cajun seasoning on a baking sheet

    Broil the shrimp on high, stirring every three minutes, until fully cooked.

    photo of cooked cajun shrimp on a baking sheet

    Serve immediately with the pasta, along with vodka sauce or any homemade or store-bought creamy tomato sauce.

    Close up photo of plated Cajun Shrimp Pasta on a blue rimmed plate

    Here are some more recipes that would be great for Valentine's Day or any special occasion:

    Crispy Roast Duck 

    Chicken in Red Wine Sauce 

    Garlic Butter Crab Pasta 

    Baked Seafood Stuffed Avocados 

    WANT EVEN MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM MYSELF AND MY FAVORITE FOOD BLOGGERS? FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, OR FACEBOOK, WHERE I SHARE NEW RECIPES DAILY. YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL TO GET NEWLY POSTED RECIPES FOR FREE!

    Close up photo of plated Cajun Shrimp Pasta on a blue rimmed plate
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Cajun Shrimp Pasta

    This Cajun Shrimp Pasta is made with broiled Cajun seasoned shrimp and served with your favorite pasta and creamy tomato sauce.

    Prep Time20 minutes mins
    Cook Time12 minutes mins
    Total Time32 minutes mins
    Course: MAIN COURSES/ENTRÉES
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: cajun shrimp, cajun shrimp with tomato sauce, shrimp pasta
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 626kcal

    Ingredients

    • 1 pound large raw shrimp (21-25 count)
    • 12 ounces pappardelle pasta (or your favorite pasta)
    • 24 ounces vodka sauce* *see notes (or any creamy tomato sauce)
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

    Instructions

    • Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and keep warm.
    • Peel the shells from the shrimp and remove the tails. Pat dry with paper towels and place on a large broiler safe baking sheet in a single layer. Toss the shrimp with the olive oil and then the Cajun seasoning, covering all sides.
    • Turn on the broiler to High, adjusting the shelf to the highest position.
    • Heat the sauce in a saucepan on medium-low heat.
    • Broil the shrimp for 3 minutes, turn, and continue to broil, stirring every 3 minutes, until fully cooked.
    • Serve immediately with the pasta and sauce.

    Notes

    *Homemade Vodka Sauce recipe can be found here.
    Nutritional information for this recipe is an estimate and will vary depending on the type of pasta and sauce you use. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 626kcal | Carbohydrates: 79g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 298mg | Sodium: 1414mg | Potassium: 360mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1736IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 193mg | Iron: 5mg

    Homemade Penne Alla Vodka

    January 29, 2020

    Homemade Penne Alla Vodka, restaurant quality vodka sauce is less expensive to make at home, creamy and comforting Italian food.

    Homemade Penne Alla Vodka, restaurant quality vodka sauce is less expensive to make at home, creamy and comforting Italian food.

    Homemade Penne Alla Vodka, restaurant quality vodka sauce is less expensive to make at home, creamy and comforting Italian food.

    Originally posted on October 27, 2016. Updated January 29, 2020. 

    What is your favorite pasta dish, either from a restaurant or that you make at home? Penne Alla Vodka is one of my favorite things to make, and I think I've made it myself more than I've ordered it in a restaurant. I don't make it all that often, but when I do I love it!

    I haven't shared as many homemade sauce recipes in the last few years like I did when I first started this blog, but I still love to make them. Some I make completely from scratch using tomatoes from my garden, others I use canned tomatoes in because it's faster and easier. Using canned tomatoes here, this Penne Alla Vodka is ready to serve in about an hour.

    Homemade Penne Alla Vodka, restaurant quality vodka sauce is less expensive to make at home, creamy and comforting Italian food.

    How to make Penne Alla Vodka

    Though it is normally considered a special occasion dish, Penne Alla Vodka isn't hard to make at home at all. It's perfect for anytime you have an hour to spare and want to cook something special without a lot of work.

    Saute onions in butter and olive oil, add garlic, tomato puree, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, sugar, and vodka.

    photo of vodka sauce cooking on the stove

    Bring to a boil, then let it simmer for about 45 minutes before adding fresh herbs, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Be sure to use real Parmigiano reggiano, or at the very least American Parmesan cheese, and not the stuff in a can.

    photo of shredded Parmigiano reggiano on a cutting board next to a box grater

    Stir in the cheese first until melted, then slowly add cream and heat through before serving.

    photo of cream mixed into tomato vodka sauce in a pot

    Serve over cooked penne pasta for the most amazing comfort food this pasta lover can think of! No penne, no problem, this sauce can be served with almost any kind of pasta. Vodka sauce is also delicious over chicken.

    Do you need more pasta sauce recipes? Try these:

    Pumpkin Ravioli with Parmesan Sage Cream Sauce 

    Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce 

    Easy Meat Sauce 

    WANT EVEN MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM MYSELF AND MY FAVORITE FOOD BLOGGERS? FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST OR ON FACEBOOK, WHERE I SHARE NEW RECIPES DAILY. YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL TO GET NEWLY POSTED RECIPES FOR FREE! 

    Print Recipe
    4.50 from 2 votes

    Homemade Penne Alla Vodka

    Homemade Penne Alla Vodka, restaurant quality vodka sauce is less expensive to make at home, creamy and comforting Italian food.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Cook Time45 minutes mins
    Total Time55 minutes mins
    Course: Sauce
    Cuisine: Italian
    Keyword: creamy tomato sauce, vodka sauce recipe
    Servings: 7
    Calories: 635kcal
    Author: Bernadette Martin

    Ingredients

    • 28 ounce can tomato puree
    • 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
    • 2 ½ ounces tomato paste (½ of a small can)
    • 1 ⅓ cup chopped onion
    • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • ½ teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
    • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
    • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil
    • 1 cup vodka
    • 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
    • 2 cups heavy cream can subsitute light cream
    • 8 ounces penne pasta cooked according to package directions

    Instructions

    • In a large pot saute onions in butter and olive oil until just beginning to soften; add garlic and cook, stirring,for one more minute. Add in the tomato puree, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, sugar and vodka.
    • Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 45 minutes.
    • During this time you can shred your cheese and chop the fresh herbs.
    • After 45 minutes, stir in the herbs and cheese and continue to stir until cheese is melted. Slowly stir in the cream until heated through. Serve over penne pasta cooked according to package directions. This sauce would work with many other types of pasta or chicken.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 635kcal | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Cholesterol: 110mg | Sodium: 857mg | Potassium: 1145mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 2170IU | Vitamin C: 28.5mg | Calcium: 286mg | Iron: 4.6mg

     

    Italian Roast Beef

    January 27, 2020

    close up photo of roast beef in a baking pan with roasted onions

    This Italian Roast Beef recipe is perfect for Sunday dinner, or make ahead and slice thin for Italian beef sandwiches. Made with a rub of olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt and spices, then roasted on a bed of onions, it's easy to make and full of flavor.
    Overhead photo of Italian Roast Beef on a bed of sliced onions in a square baking dish

    This isn't the prettiest thing, is it? But, it's delicious! And the onions that are roasted with the beef make a fabulous side dish paired with carrots or mashed potatoes, or whatever vegetable you like.

    What is Italian Roast Beef?

    Top round or bottom round roast beef coated with olive oil then rubbed with a mixture of coarse sea salt, coarsely ground black pepper, Italian seasoning, and either fresh minced garlic or garlic powder. I highly recommend roasted garlic powder, it's much more flavorful than regular garlic powder. Bring the beef out of the refrigerator one hour before roasting to come to room temperature.

    Photo of top round beef coated with olive oil and seasonings on a plate

    Thinly slice onions and add them to a baking dish that has been coated with olive oil.

     

    photo of sliced onions in a square baking dish

    Place the seasoned roast beef on top of the onions fat side up.

    photo of uncooked roast beef on top of onions in a baking dish

    Start the Italian Roast Beef in the oven at a high temperature (425 F) for 15 minutes, then turn the temperature down to 325 F for the remaining time. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the middle of the roast to check for desired temperature, 125 degrees for rare, 145 for medium, or 160 for well done, removing the roast from the oven when it reaches 5 degrees lower than desired temperature to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

    close up photo of roast beef in a baking pan with roasted onions

    Looking for more beef recipes for Sunday dinner or a special occasion? Try these:

    Beef Bourguignon 

    Garlic Roast Beef 

    Slow Cooker Red Wine Braised Short Ribs 

    Slow Cooker French Onion Roast Beef 

    WANT EVEN MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM MYSELF AND MY FAVORITE FOOD BLOGGERS? FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, OR FACEBOOK, WHERE I SHARE NEW RECIPES DAILY. YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL TO GET NEWLY POSTED RECIPES FOR FREE!

    close up photo of roast beef in a baking pan with roasted onions
    Print Recipe
    5 from 5 votes

    Italian Roast Beef

    This Italian Roast Beef recipe is perfect for Sunday dinner, or make ahead and slice thin for Italian beef sandwiches. Made with a rub of olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt and spices, then roasted on a bed of onions, it's easy to make and full of flavor.

    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Cook Time2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
    Time to come to room temperature and rest1 hour hr 10 minutes mins
    Total Time3 hours hrs 35 minutes mins
    Course: MAIN COURSES/ENTRÉES
    Cuisine: Italian/American
    Keyword: how to roast beef, Italian beef, roast beef
    Servings: 8
    Calories: 376kcal

    Ingredients

    • 4 pound top round roast beef
    • 1 yellow onion sliced thin
    • 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
    • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
    • 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
    • 1 tablespoon fresh coarsely ground black pepper
    • 1 tablespoon roasted garlic powder

    Instructions

    • One hour before baking bring defrosted beef out of the refrigerator to come to room temperature.
    • Preheat the oven to 425 F. Coat a baking dish with one tablespoon olive oil. Cover the bottom of the dish with the sliced onions.
    • Combine the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and roasted garlic powder in a small bowl and mix well. Coat the beef all over with the remaining two tablespoons olive oil. Rub the salt mixture all over the beef, pressing hard enough that it sticks. Place in the baking pan, fat side up, on top of the onions.
    • Place the pan in the oven, uncovered and roast for 15 minutes. Reduce the heat to 325 F and continue to roast for an additional hour for rare to two hours for well done. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the middle of the roast to check for desired temperature, 125 degrees for rare, 145 for medium, or 160 for well done, removing the roast from the oven when it reaches 5 degrees lower than desired temperature to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

    • Serve with the roasted onions if desired, or use them to make an onion gravy with beef broth.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 376kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 51g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 141mg | Sodium: 1001mg | Potassium: 823mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 11IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 5mg

    Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

    January 16, 2020

    Close up photo of a hand holding a Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Popper with a pan of poppers in the background

    These Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers are filled with a mixture of cream and cheddar cheeses, diced onions and garlic, and wrapped in bacon. Spicy, flavorful poppers that will be a hit at your next party.

    Close up photo of a hand holding a Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Popper with a pan of poppers in the background

    Originally published January 16, 2013. Post updated January 16, 2020.

    A few months ago a long time ago, a fellow food blogger mentioned that she had done a "recipe swap" with another blogger, making their recipe and blogging about it, and it was something they wouldn't normally make. I thought that was a really good idea, because most of what I write about is our every day dinners, and what I make for parties. I have a ton of soup recipes, and sauce recipes, and seafood recipes, simply because it's what I tend to make the most often. Swapping recipes with other bloggers would be a great way to expand my horizons!

    Let me introduce you to Sara from My Imperfect Kitchen. Sara lives in Los Angeles, which is a whole other food world than the one I live in. She gets to do things like walking food tours!  I mean, seriously, what would we tour here, our local McDonald's, Denny's, and Taco Bell?! Okay, okay, we have a few local restaurants here, and some of them are really good, but you can't walk down a street and find one after the other.She also gets to take cooking classes taught by known chefs! They also have much better farmer's markets in LA, and I'm sure the grocery store's aren't too shabby either! Yes, I'm jealous!

    Alright, enough of my jealousy and on to why I chose this recipe of hers to make. I really love jalapeno poppers, but I've never made them from scratch. I've also never had them with bacon, plus these are baked jalapeno poppers, not fried. I knew I had to make them and I must tell you, these poppers are excellent! I even had some cold the next day, and they were still good. So, now your going to want her recipe, right? Well, here you go! This is what she used, with the printable version and my changes below:

    Photo of a pan of Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

    How to make these jalapeno poppers:

    2 – 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
    1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
    4 green onions (both green and white parts) sliced
    2 tsp minced garlic
    25 slices of thin bacon, cut in half crosswise (approx 2 lbs)
    25 fresh jalapenos
    Rubber gloves for handling the jalapenos
    Toothpicks

    I halved the recipe because it was just for myself and my husband, and we ate a bunch that night 🙂

    I forgot to get the green onions at the store, and then my husband forgot them when he went, so I chopped fine 2 tablespoons of yellow onion and it tasted fine. I also used shredded cheddar instead of grated, no problem there either.

    Preheat the oven to 275 F. Wearing gloves slice the jalapeno in half-length wise. Use a teaspoon to gently scrap out the membranes and seeds from each half. If you want them a little spicy, leave a few seeds but not too many, they will be hot! I used one or two seeds in just a few of them.

    In a bowl beat the cheeses, onion and garlic together with a mixer. Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mix. I used a teaspoon to spread the cheese across. Wrap half a piece of bacon around each filled jalapeno, covering as much of the cheese as possible. Use a toothpick or wooden skewer to secure the bacon, place jalapenos on a rack over a sheet pan to catch the bacon grease, and bake for about an hour, or until the bacon is sizzling. You can make these without the bacon for a vegetarian version.

    If you love this Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers recipe as much as I do, please visit and follow Sara on her website.

    Looking for more great appetizers and party food? Try these:

    Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

    Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs 

    Bacon Horseradish Dip 

    Cheesy Mexican Chorizo Puff Pastry Tarts 

    WANT EVEN MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM MYSELF AND MY FAVORITE FOOD BLOGGERS? FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, OR FACEBOOK, WHERE I SHARE NEW RECIPES DAILY. YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL TO GET NEWLY POSTED RECIPES FOR FREE!

    Print Recipe
    3.50 from 2 votes

    Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers- A Recipe Swap

    Jalapeno's filled with cheese and wrapped in bacon make a fantastic spicy appetizer
    Prep Time20 minutes mins
    Cook Time1 hour hr
    Total Time1 hour hr 20 minutes mins
    Course: Appetizer
    Servings: 50
    Calories: 88kcal
    Author: Bernadette

    Ingredients

    • 16 ounces cream cheese softened (2 packages)
    • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
    • 4 tablespoons chopped fine yellow onion
    • 2 tsp minced garlic
    • 25 slices of thin bacon cut in half crosswise (approx 2 lbs)
    • 25 fresh jalapenos
    • For preparation:
    • Rubber gloves for handling the jalapenos
    • Toothpicks

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 275 F. Wearing gloves slice the jalapeno in half-length wise. Use a teaspoon to gently scrap out the membranes and seeds from each half. If you want them a little spicy, leave a few seeds but not too many, they will be hot!
    • In a bowl beat the cheeses, onion and garlic together with a mixer. Usin a teaspoon fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mix.
    • Wrap half a piece of bacon around each filled jalapeno, covering as much of the cheese as possible.
    • Use a toothpick or wooden skewer to secure the bacon, place jalapenos on a rack over a sheet pan to catch the bacon grease, and bake in the preheated oven for about an hour, or until the bacon is sizzling.

    Notes

    Can be halved easily.
    Can be made without the bacon for a vegetarian version.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 88kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 116mg | Potassium: 55mg | Vitamin A: 225IU | Vitamin C: 8.4mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 0.1mg

    (original horribly bad photo. Pretty amazing how much I've improved!)

    Photobucket

    15 Winning Super Bowl Party Food Recipes

    January 9, 2020

    Collage photo of super bowl party food recipes with text

    If you are throwing a Super Bowl party this year, you need great food. From chili to appetizers and dips, these are some of the best Super Bowl Party Food Recipes.

    Collage photo of super bowl party food recipes with text

    Originally published January 26, 2018. Updated January 9, 2020. 

    Are you watching the big game with interest or just there for the food? I'm totally just there for the food!

    What are the best Super Bowl Party Food Recipes?

    I believe the best party recipes are those that can be thrown together in just minutes, or those that can be made ahead and kept warm in a slow cooker. All of the Super Bowl recipes here fall into one of those categories.

    Favorite Appetizers:

    photo of Jalepeno Cheddar Bites on a dark orange plate

    Flavorful Jalapeno Cheddar Bites, made with diced jalapenos, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese, then rolled in seasoned Panko breadcrumbs and baked.

    photo of Bacon Gouda Stuffed Bell Peppers on a plate!

     

    Bacon Gouda Stuffed Bell Peppers. Sweet bell peppers stuffed with a simple mixture of bacon and Gouda cheese. Great for the mild-loving crowd, or add a pinch of cayenne for heat!

    Photo of Bacon Cheddar Deviled Eggs on a black serving tray

     

    These Bacon Cheddar Deviled Eggs are my favorite deviled eggs! They are great for any party, including a Super Bowl Party.

    Photo of Cheesy Mexican Chorizo Puff Pastry Tarts on a baking sheet

     

    Cheesy Mexican Chorizo Puff Pastry Tarts are a spicy, cheesy, flaky appetizer great for munching on during the game or for a party!

    Photo of Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites on a plate

     

    These sweet Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites are the perfect three-ingredient party appetizer.  They keep well in a slow cooker set to keep warm, but they won’t last!

    Delicious Dips:

    Photo of Spicy Guacamole with Bacon in a bowl

     

    Creamy, Spicy Guacamole with Bacon, made with fresh avocado, sauteed onions, crumbled bacon, and jalapenos makes a perfect dip for chips or spread for topping your favorite sandwiches.

    Photo of Slow Cooker Beer Blue Cheese Dip in a white baking dish

     

    Gather together with your friends and family for the big game, and enjoy this easy to make, cheesy, creamy Slow Cooker Beer Blue Cheese Dip loaded with scallions and a little kick from cayenne pepper while you watch.

    Photo of Homemade Bacon Horseradish Dip in a colorful bowl.

     

    Homemade Bacon Horseradish Dip that tastes just like the popular brand! Made with real bacon, horseradish sauce, and sour cream, it’s easy to make and full of flavor.

    Photo of Crack Dip also known as Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip in a small white baking bowl

     

    Crack Dip (Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip), made with cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, loads of bacon, scallions, and a hint of sriracha, is perfect for any party!

    Super Bowl Main Dishes:

    Photo of slow cooker Taco Soup in a white bowl

     

    Delicious slow cooker Taco Soup is everything you love about tacos in soup form! Filled with ground beef, salsa, black beans, and taco seasoning, it is a hearty and warming soup that can be made in the slow cooker or on the stove.

    Photo of a bowl of Award Winning Chili

     

    I make this spicy ground beef slow cooker Award Winning Chili for every Super Bowl.

    Photo of Perfect Meatballs on a baking sheet

     

    Use this recipe for Perfect Meatballs to serve as an appetizer or to make meatball subs.

    photo of Ham and Cheese Stromboli made with crescent roll dough on a white cutting board with a bowl of marinara sauce.

     

    This easy Ham and Cheese Crescent "Roll" Stromboli is one of my long-time popular recipes, and it's great for serving at any party!

    Photo of a whole pan of Victory Pig Sicilian Style Pizza

     

    This copycat Victory Pig Sicilian Style Pizza is made with hand crushed tomatoes, onions, and lots of cheese. Perfect Super Bowl party food!

    phoro of Chorizo and Black Bean Chili in a white bowl

     

    Flavorful Mexican beef Chorizo and Black Bean Chili. Spicy, beefy, filling, chili with a not-so-secret ingredient. It can be made on the stove or in the slow cooker!

    If you try any of these 15 Winning Super Bowl Party Food Recipes let me know!

    WANT EVEN MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM MYSELF AND MY FAVORITE FOOD BLOGGERS? FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, OR FACEBOOK, WHERE I SHARE NEW RECIPES DAILY. YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL TO GET NEWLY POSTED RECIPES FOR FREE!

    Easy Salted Chocolate Caramels

    December 12, 2019

    photo of easy salted chocolate caramels in a white plastic tray

    Make these Easy Salted Chocolate Caramels today! Made with melted chocolate chips and store-bought caramel topping, they are the perfect Christmas gift, if you can stop yourself from eating them all first!

    Make these Easy Salted Chocolate Caramels today! Made with melted chocolate chips and store-bought caramel topping, they are the perfect Christmas gift, if you can stop yourself from eating them all first!

    Merry Christmas everyone!! Every year since I started this blog, Christmas comes much faster than I need it to. I never get enough time to share all the Christmas recipes that I would like to. I do even worse when it comes to Christmas treats. I'm totally making up for the lack of tons of recipes with these Easy Salted Chocolate Caramels, though!

    How to make Easy Salted Chocolate Caramels

    I never realized how easy it is to make homemade chocolates until I found Homemade Gourmet Chocolate on CakeWhiz. All I had to do was melt chocolate in the microwave, then use a pastry brush to coat ice cube trays with the chocolate.

    Chocolate Brushed Ice Cube Tray Holes

     (I seem to only own blue ice cube trays with gaps that I guess are supposed to fill the trays with water easily,but made me unable to use those spaces.)

    Freeze the trays for 20 minutes, then add the filling.

    Caramel Filled Chocolates in ice cube trays.

    Top evenly with more melted chocolate, and freeze again.

    Finished Chocolate Filled Caramels

     

    Here are a few tips I learned from testing this recipe a few times to see how easily the chocolates would come out of the trays and make sure they didn't fall apart.

    • Fresh, unopened chocolate chips melt much better than older chocolate chips. A new bag melted completely smooth and poured easily, while older chips never became truly liquid. Lesson learned. Also, why did I have three bags of milk chocolate chips when I rarely bake??
    •  Don't over-fill the holes in the ice cube trays. I added to much chocolate on top. You do want to make sure each cavity is completely coated with a good layer of chocolate, with no gaps, otherwise the chocolates will crack and lose the filling.
    • If the chocolates don't pop out of the trays easily, carefully push straight down with a butter knife along the corner of each cube. It should release easily when you pull the knife up.
    • Be prepared for the fact that you may not be able to get every piece of chocolate out of the tray in one piece and make extra. I lost 3 pieces.

    Make these Easy Salted Chocolate Caramels today! Made with melted chocolate chips and store-bought caramel topping, they are the perfect Christmas gift, if you can stop yourself from eating them all first!

     

    Here are a few more chocolate recipes great for Christmas desserts and treats for you to enjoy:

    Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate 

    Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Scones

    Chocolate Hazelnut Cupcakes with Nutella Frosting

    Chocolate Eggnog Pudding Shots 

    WANT EVEN MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM MYSELF AND MY FAVORITE FOOD BLOGGERS? FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, OR FACEBOOK, WHERE I SHARE NEW RECIPES DAILY. YOU CAN ALSO SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL TO GET NEWLY POSTED RECIPES FOR FREE!

    Photo of Easy Salted Chocolate Caramels in a white plastic container
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Easy Salted Chocolate Caramels

    Make these Easy Salted Chocolate Caramels today! Made with melted chocolate chips and store-bought caramel topping, they are the perfect Christmas gift, if you can stop yourself from eating them all first!
    Prep Time1 hour hr
    Cook Time3 minutes mins
    Total Time1 hour hr 3 minutes mins
    Course: Candy
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: chocolate caramels recipe, homemade caramel filled chocolates, salted chocolates
    Servings: 16
    Calories: 161kcal
    Author: Bernadette

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups milk chocolate chips , melted and divided
    • 16 teaspoons salted caramel topping (or plain caramel topping)
    • 1 teaspoon sea salt (freshly ground, if possible)

    Instructions

    • In a microwave safe bowl, melt one cup of the chocolate chips in 30 second intervals, stirring well in between cycles, until the chocolate is completely melted.  
    • Use a small pastry brush to brush the melted chocolate into each cavity of two ice cube trays, Completely cover the bottoms and sides, making sure to double-check for gaps. Place in the freezer for twenty minutes. 
    • Using a measuring teaspoon, fill each cavity with the caramel topping. It is not necessary to scrape the teaspoon to get all of the topping, just pour in as much as you can.
    • Melt the second cup of chocolate chips following the instructions above. Use a kitchen teaspoon to pour equal amounts of the chocolate on top of each filled chocolate, tilting the ice cube tray slightly to coat each piece evenly. Sprinkle the chocolates with sea salt. Place the trays back in the freezer for twenty minutes. 
    • Carefully remove the chocolates from the trays, using a butter knife inserted straight down on the side of each chocolate and pulling straight up, if needed to loosen the chocolates.  
    • Store covered in a cool place, or package them up to give to friends and family. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 161kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 200mg | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 85IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 0.3mg
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