Recipes I Love

Recipe For Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

2008-08-03T20:23:00.001-07:00

This is a tasty, easy-to-fix pasta dish that is also great reheated as leftovers.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
4 servings

Ingredients:
4 tblsps. butter
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 clove garlic
2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, browned and chopped
2 tsps. olive oil
1 medium tomato, chopped
1 cup chicken stock
Dash of salt
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. white pepper
1/4 tsp. dried thyme
12 ozs. fettucine

Directions:
1. Melt 2 tblsps. butter in a large skillet over medium heat; saute the bell pepper and garlic in the butter for 8-10 minutes or until the pepper softens.
2. Add browned/chopped chicken and olive oil to the pan and heat thru.
3. Add the tomatoes, chicken stock, salt, cayenne pepper, paprika, white pepper, and thyme; continue to simmer for 10-12 minutes or until it thickens.
4. Cook fettucine according to package directions.
5. When the noodles are done, drain them and add the remaining 2 tblsps. of butter and toss the noodles to mix in the butter.
6. Add noodles to chicken/vegetable sauce and stir until evenly mixed.

Recipe For Raspberry Rice Pudding

2008-07-25T20:58:00.000-07:00

Nice alternative to regular rice pudding. This version only takes about 15 minutes to prepare.

Raspberry Rice Pudding
4 servings

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cup whipping cream
1/4 cup sugar
3/4 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups cold cooked rice
1/3 cup seedless raspberry jam
4 drops red food coloring, optional
1 cup fresh raspberries

Directions:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream, sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
2. Stir in the rice, jam and food coloring if desired.
3. Spoon into serving dishes, garnish with raspberries.

Recipe For Chilled Strawberry Soup

2008-07-23T20:53:00.000-07:00

Nice springtime recipe, great for brunches or bridal/baby shower.

Chilled Strawberry Soup
6-8 servings

Ingredients:
1 cup apple juice
1 cup water, divided
2/3 cup sugar
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp. ground cloves
2 cups fresh strawberries
2 cartons (8 ozs.) each strawberry yogurt
Additional strawberry halves, optional

Directions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the apple juice, 3/4 sup water, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves; bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Remove from the heat; cool.
3. Place strawberries and remaining water in a blender or food processor; cover and process until smooth.
4. Pour into a large bowl.
5. Add apple juice mixture and yogurt.
6. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled; garnish with additional strawberries if desired.

Recipe For Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

2008-07-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

Great, easy ice cream sandwich dessert!

Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
6 servings

Ingredients:
12 chocolate chip cookies
1 pint vanilla ice cream or flavor of your choice

Directions:
1. Cook cookies according to package directions.
2. Top with a scoop of ice cream.
3. Top with another cookie; press down firmly.
4. Wrap in plastic wrap; freeze until serving.

Recipe For Easy Chicken and Noodles

2008-06-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

This is a super-easy recipe that only takes minutes to prepare and is great served over mashed potatoes.

Easy Chicken and Noodles
4 servings

Ingredients:
1 can (10 3/4 ozs.) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
3/4 cup milk
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/8 tsp. pepper
3 cups cooked wide egg noodles
2 cups cubed, cooked chicken

Directions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the soup, milk, Parmesan cheese and pepper.
2. Stir in the noodles and chicken; heat through.

Recipe For Cappucino Muffins

2008-06-22T19:40:00.000-07:00

Yummy homemade muffins with chocolate and coffee mixed in. Takes about 10 minutes to mix together and 20 minutes to bake.

Cappucino Muffins

14 muffins

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup sugar

2-1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. salt

1 cup milk

2 tblsps. instant coffee granules

1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted

1 egg, beaten

1 tsp. vanilla extract

3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon and salt.

2. In another bowl, stir milk and coffee granules until coffeee granules are dissolved.

3. Add butter, egg and vanilla; mix well.

4. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened.

5. Fold in chocolate chips.

6. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups 2/3 full.

7. Bake at 375 degrees for 17-20 minutes are until muffins test done.

8. Cool for 5 minutes.

Recipe For Salad with Buttermilk Dressing

2008-06-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

Easy homemade salad dressing.

Salad and Buttermilk Dressing

1-1/2 cups

Ingredients:

3/4 cup buttermilk

3/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tblsp. minced fresh parsley

1/2 tsp. sugar

1/2 tsp. ground mustard

1/4 tsp. onion powder

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 tsp. pepper

Salad greens

Directions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the first eight ingredients.

2. Serve over salad greens, refrigerate leftover dressing.

Recipe For Raspberry Sorbet

2008-06-20T19:32:00.000-07:00

This is an easy dish to prepare and healthy snack. Only takes about 5 minutes to blend.

Raspberry Sorbet
6 servings

Ingredients:
1/4 cup plus 1 1/2 tsps. lemon juice
3-3/4 cup unsweetened raspberries
2-1/4 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients; cover and process until smooth.
2. Pour into dessert dishes.
3. Cover and freeze for 1 hour or until set.
4. Remove from the freezer 15 minutes before serving.

Recipe For Strawberry Orange Shakes

2008-06-05T20:46:00.000-07:00

Refreshing summer smoothie!

Strawberry Orange Shakes

4 servings

Ingredients:

2 cups orange juice

1/2 cup milk

1 pkg. (10 ozs.) frozen unsweetened sliced strawberries, partially thawed

1-3 tsps. sugar

1 cup ice cubes

Directions:

1. In a blender, combine the orange juice, milk, strawberries, and sugar.

2. Cover and process until smooth.

3. Add the ice cubes; cover and process until mixture reaches desired consistency.

4. Serve immediately.

Recipe for Italian Meatball Subs

2008-05-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

These homemade meatball subs are great. Everyone will think that you went to a lot of trouble, but they are very easy to heat in the slow cooker. I like the serve them on toasted Italian rolls.

Italian Meatball Subs

6-7 servings

Ingredients:

2 eggs, beaten

1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs

2 tblsps. grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/8 tsp. garlic powder

1 pound ground beef

1/2 bulk Italian sausage

Sauce:

1 can (15 ozs.) tomato sauce

1 can (6 ozs.) tomato paste

1 small onion, chopped

1/2 cup red wine or beef broth

1/3 cup water

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp. oregano

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. sugar

1/2 tsp. pepper

6-7 Italian rolls, split

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine the eggs and milk; add bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper and garlic powder.

2. Add beef and sausage; mix well.

3. Shape into 1-inch balls.

4. Broil 4-inches from the heat for 4 minutes; turn and broil 3 minutes longer.

5. Transfer to a slow cooker.

6. Combine the tomato sauce and paste, onion, wine or broth, water, and seasonings; pour over meatballs.

7. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

8. Serve on rolls.

Recipe For Croissant French Toast

2008-05-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

A great alternative to normal breakfast foods, this is a yummy, rich version of french toast and terrific for brunch. I believe I altered this recipe from one that I found in an old issue of Taste of Home.

Croissant French Toast
4 servings

Ingredients:
Vanilla Sauce-
1 tblsp. all-purpose flour
4 egg yolks
1 tblsp. vanilla extract
2 cups whipping cream
1/2 cup sugar
2 scoops vanilla ice cream

Berry Sauce-
2 cups unsweetened raspberries
2 tblsps. sugar

French Toast-
3 eggs
4 croissants, split
2 tblsps. butter or margarine

Directions:
1. In a bowl, combine flour, egg yolks, and vanilla; set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the whipping cream and sugar to a boil; remove from the heat.
3. Stir in a small amount of hot cream into egg yolk mixture; return all to the pan; stirring constantly.
4. Bring to a gentle boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes.
5. Remove from the heat; stir in ice cream until melted, set aside.
6. For berry sauce, combine the raspberries and sugar in a saucepan.
7. Simmer, uncovered, for 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove from the heat; set aside.
9. In a shallow bowl, beat eggs.
10. Dip both sides of croissants in egg mixture.
11. On a griddle, brown croissants on both sides in butter.
12. Serve with vanilla and berry sauces.

Recipe For Roast Beef with Gravy

2008-05-18T20:25:00.001-07:00

This is my favorite recipe for making roast beef. It is so easy to prepare in the slow cooker and great with mashed potatoes.

Roast Beef with Gravy
12 servings

Ingredients:
1 boneless beef sirloin tip roast (about 4 pounds)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour, divided
1 envelope onion soup mix
1 envelope brown gravy mix
2 cups cold water

Directions:
1. Cut roast in half; rub with 1/4 cup flour.
2. Place in a 5-qt. slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, combine the soup and gravy mixes and remaining flour, stir in water until blended.
4. Pour over roast.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until meat in tender.
6. Slice roast; serve alone or with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Recipe For Teriyaki Pork Tenderloin

2008-05-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

This is a unique way to prepare pork tenderloin. I can't remember where I found the recipe, but it is a great way to grill pork. You will want to allow enough time for marinating.

Teriyaki Pork Tenderloin

8 servings

Ingredients:

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup olive or vegetable oil

4 tsps. brown sugar

2 tsps. ground ginger

1 tsp. pepper

2 garlic cloves, minced

4 pork tenderloins (3/4 to 1 pound each), split in two

Directions:

1. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the first six ingredients; add pork.

2. Seal bag and turn to coat; refrigerate for 4 hours; turning occasionally.

3. Drain and discard marinade; grill the tenderloins, covered, over indirect heat for 8-9 minutes on each side or until meat juices run clear and a meat thermometer reads 160 degrees.

Recipe For Breaded Chicken Breasts

2008-05-03T11:55:00.001-07:00

Easy, economical way to prepare chicken breasts. This is a very versatile main dish as it can be paired with almost any side dish.

Breaded Chicken Breasts
6 servings

Ingredients:
3/4 cup dry bread crumbs
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
3/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted
3 tblsps. lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
Dash paprika

Directions:
1. In a shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
2. In another bowl, combine the butter, lemon juice and garlic.
3. Dip chicken in butter mixture, then roll in crumbs.
4. Place chicken in a greased 11-in. X 7-in. X 2-in. baking dish.
5. Drizzle with remaining butter mixture; sprinkle with paprika.
6. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 40 minutes or until chicken juices run clear.

Recipe For Pepperoni Caesar Salad

2008-05-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

I love this twist on normal Caesar salad. Making homemade salad dressings really is very quick and easy and I prefer it to store bought.

Pepperoni Caesar Salad

8 servings

Ingredients:

1/3 cup olive or vegetable oil

2 tblsps. red wine vinegar or cider vinegar

2 tblsps. mayonnaise

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard

1/4 tsp. Worchestershire sauce

1/4 tsp. pepper

8 cups torn romaine

1 cup halved thinly sliced pepperoni

1 1/2 cup Caesar salad croutons

1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the oil, vinegar, mayonnaise, garlic, mustard, Worchestershire sauce, and pepper; set aside.

2. In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine and pepperoni.

3. Drizzle with dressing; sprinkle with croutons and Parmesan, serve immediately.

Recipe For Hot Ham Sandwiches

2008-05-01T11:45:00.000-07:00

Great slow cooker recipe for easy ham sandwiches. I found this recipe in an old issue of Quick Cooking magazine.

Hot Ham Sandwiches

12 servings

Ingredients:

3 pounds thinly sliced deli ham (about 40 slices)

2 cups apple juice

2/3 cups packed brown sugar

1/2 cup sweet pickle relish

2 tsps. prepared mustard

1 tsp. paprika

12 kaiser rolls, split

Directions:

1. Separate ham slices and place in a slow cooker.

2. In a bowl, combine the apple juice, brown sugar, relish mustard and paprika.

3. Pour over ham.

4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until heated through.

5. Place 3-4 slices of ham on each roll.

Recipe For Classic Crunchy Chicken

2008-04-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

This is a great chicken casserole with a lot of flavor. It is easy to prepare and only takes about 30 minutes to bake.

Crunchy Chicken Casserole
4 servings

Ingredients:
1 can (10 3/4 ozs.) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1 can (10 ozs.) chunk white chicken, drained
1 can (8 ozs.) sliced water chestnuts, drained
2 cups cooked wild rice
3/4 cup milk
2-4 tblsps. slivered almonds
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 cup french-fried onions

Directions:
1. In a bowl, combine the first eight ingredients; mix well.
2. Pour into a greased shallow 1 1/2 qt. baking dish.
3. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
4. Uncover, top with onions.
5. Bake 5-10 minutes longer or until bubbly.

Recipe For Yummy Hamburgers

2008-04-15T12:52:00.000-07:00

I love this hamburger recipe because of the topping. I've made them many times over the years.

Yummy Hamburgers

6 servings

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef

1/2 tsp. garlic salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1 cup (4 ozs.) shredded cheddar cheese

6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

1/4 cup mayonnaise

6 hamburger buns, split

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the beef, garlic salt and pepper; mix well.

2. Shape into six patties, 3/4-inches thick.

3. In a small bowl, combine the cheese, bacon, and mayonnaise; refrigerate.

4. Grill burgers for 10-12 minutes or until done to taste, turning once.

5. During the last 3 minutes, spoon 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture onto each burger.

6. Serve on buns (I also like to toast or broil the buns.)

Recipe For Honey-Mustard Baked Chicken

2008-04-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

I've been making this chicken recipe for probably 12 years now. It goes well with many side dishes and is quick to prepare, although it will take an hour to bake.

Honey-Mustard Baked Chicken
4 servings

Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1 tsp. curry powder
1/2 tsp. salt

Directions:
1. Place chicken in a large shallow baking pan.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter; stir in remaining ingredients and heat through.
3. Brush glaze over chicken.
4. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until chicken is golden brown.
5. Baste chicken frequently with sauce while baking.

Recipe For Ranch Snack Mix

2008-04-12T12:41:00.000-07:00

Yummy, snack mix that is very easy and quick to assemble.

Ranch Snack Mix

6 qts.

Ingredients:

1 pkg. (12 ozs.) miniature pretzels

2 pkgs. ( 6 ozs. each) Bugles

1 pkg. (6 ozs.) bite-size cheddar cheese fish crackers

1 envelope ranch snack salad dressing mix

3/4 cup vegetable oil

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the pretzels, Bugles, and crackers.

2. Sprinkle with dressing mix; toss to coat.

3. Drizzle with oil; toss until well-coated; store in airtight containers.

Recipe For Honey-Garlic Angel Hair Pasta

2008-04-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

Easy, fast side dish!

Honey-Garlic Angel Hair Pasta
8 servings

Ingredients:
1 pkg. (16 ozs.) angel hair pasta
2-3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup butter or margarine
1/4 cup honey
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. dried thyme
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Directions:
1.Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, in a skillet, saute the garlic until tender.
3. Stir in the honey, basil, and thyme.
4. Drain pasta; add to the garlic mixture and toss to coat; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Recipe For Bacon-Tomato Bagel Melts

2008-03-24T19:38:00.000-07:00

This is a great variation on the usual BLT recipe. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.

Bacon-Tomato Bagel Melts
4 sandwiches

Ingredients:
2 bagels, split and toasted
8 tomato slices
8 bacon strips, cooked
1 cup (4 ozs.) shredded mozarella cheese
Prepared ranch salad dressing

Directions:
1. Place bagel halves cut side up on a baking sheet.
2. Top each with two tomato slices and two bacon strips.
3. Sprinkle with cheese.
4. Broil 5 inches from the heat for 1-2 minutes or until cheese begins to melt.
5. Serve with ranch dressing.

Recipe For Easy Semi-Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

2008-03-20T19:34:00.001-07:00

A very tasty, thick version of chicken noodle soup that is quick and easy to prepare. I have used this recipe for many years and do not remember where it originated from.

Easy Semi-Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
10-12 servings

Ingredients:
2 qts. water
8 chicken bouillon cubes
6 1/2 cups uncooked wide egg noodles
2 cans (10 3/4 ozs. each) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
3 cups cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into pieces
1 cup (8 ozs.) sour cream

Directions:
1. In a large saucepan, bring water and bouiloon to a boil.
2. Add noodles; cook, uncovered, until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Do not drain.
4. Add soup and chicken, heat through.
5. Remove from the heat; stir in sour cream.

Recipe For Cinnamon Baked Apples

2008-03-17T19:29:00.000-07:00

This is an easy recipe to prepare and a great way to get kids to eat their apples! It only takes about 10 minutes to put together and 20 minutes to bake. I believe the recipe came from an old issue of Quick Cooking.

Cinnamon Baked Apples

4 servings

Ingredients:

3 large tart apples, peeled, cored and cut into wedges

2 tblsps. lemon juice

2/3 cup apple juice

2/3 cup packed brown sugar

2 tblsps. butter or margarine

1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

Directions:

1. Place apples in an ungreased 11-inch X 7-inch X 2-inch baking dish.

2. Drizzle with lemon juice, toss to coat; set aside.

3. In a small saucepan, combine the apple juice, brown sugar, butter and cinnamon.

4. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved and the butter is melted.

5. Pour over apples; bake, uncovered, at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or until the apples are tender.

Recipe For Cherry Gelatin Squares

2008-02-11T15:54:00.000-08:00

I really like this gelatin recipe. It could probably be replaced with other flavors of gelatin and different fruits, but I have not tried anything other than the cherries. I found this recipe in an old issue of Quick Cooking.

Cherry Gelatin Squares

9 servings

Ingredients:

1 pkg. (6 ozs.) cherry gelatin
1 1/2 cup boiling water

1 can (21 ozs). cherry pie filling

1 1/4 cups lemon-lime soda, chilled

Whipped topping, optional

Directions:

1. In a bowl, dissolve gelatin in water.

2. Stir in pie filling; mix well.

3. Slowly stir in soda (mixture will likely foam).

4. Pour into an 8-inch square dish.

5. Cover and refrigerate until firm; cut into squares.

6. Garnish with whipped topping if desired.

Recipe For Taco Casserole

2008-02-09T15:48:00.000-08:00

Nice change of pace from regular tacos. I have been making this main dish for many years. I believe the recipe was from an issue of Quick Cooking. Quick to prepare and only takes about 20 minutes to bake.

Taco Casserole

4 servings

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef

1/4 cup chopped onion

1 envelope taco seasoning

1/2 cup water

1 cup crushed tortilla chips

1 can (16 ozs.) refried beans

1 cup (4 ozs.) shredded cheddar cheese

Additional toppings as desired.

Directions:

1. In a skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.

2. Stir in taco seasoning and water.

3. Cook and stir until thickened, about 3 minutes; set aside.

4. Place chips in a greased 8-inch square baking dish.

5. In a bowl , stir refried beans until smooth; spread over chips.

6. Top with beef mixture and cheese.

7. Bake, uncovered, at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

8. Top with additional lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream as desired.

Recipe For Mini Coffee Cake Muffins

2008-02-07T15:42:00.000-08:00

I do not remember exactly where this recipe came from, but it is a tasty coffee cake made into muffins. Takes about 10 minutes to mix together and 20-25 minutes to bake.

Mini Coffee Cake Muffins

1 dozen

Ingredients:

1/3 cup butter, softened

1/4 cup sugar

1 egg

1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 pkg. (3.4 ozs.) instant vanilla pudding mix

1 tblps. baking powder

1/4 tsp. salt

1 1/4 cup milk

Topping:

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

2 tblsps. butter, melted

1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

Directions:

1. In a mkixing bowl, cream butter and sugar; beat in egg.

2. Combine flour, pudding mix, baking powder, and salt; add alternately with milk; beat until blended.

3. Fill paper-lined or greased muffin cups two-thirds full.

4. Combine the topping ingredients; sprinkle over batter.

5. Bake at 375 degrees for 20-=25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

6. Cool for 10 minutes; remove from the pan to a wire rack.

Recipe For Cookies-n-Cream Fudge

2008-02-05T15:37:00.000-08:00

Yummy alternative to the normal variety of fudge. I found this recipe in an old edition of Taste of Home. It only takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare.

Cookies-n-Cream Fudge
3 dozen pieces

Ingredients:
16 chocolate cream-filled sandwich cookies, broken into chunks, divided
1 can (14 ozs,) sweetened condensed milk
2 tblsps. butter or margarine
2 2/3 cups vanilla chips
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil; coat with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Place half of the broken cookies in the pan.
3. In a heavy saucepan, combine the milk, butter, and chips; cook and stir over low heat until chips are melted.
4. Remove from the heat; stir in vanilla.
5. Pour over cookies in the pan; sprinkle with remaining cookies.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; cut into squares.

Recipe For Ice Cream Sandwich Dessert

2008-01-25T20:20:00.000-08:00

This is a great dessert that makes it appear that you spent a lot more time putting it together than you actually will. I normally leave the peanuts off, but it is still tasty either way. I do not remember where the recipe came from, but I have been using it for several years.

Ice Cream Sandwich Dessert

12-15 servings

Ingredients:

19 ice cream sandwiches
1 carton (12 ozs.) frozen whipped topping, thawed

1 jar (11 3/4 ozs.) hot fudge ice cream topping

1 cup salted peanuts

Directions:

1. Cut one ice cream sandwich in half.

2. Place one whole and one half sandwich along a short side of an ungreased 13-in.X 9-in.X 2-in. pan.

3. Arrange eight sandwiches in opposite directions in the pan.

4. Spread with half of the whipped topping.

5. Spoon fudge topping by teaspoonfuls onto whipped topping.

6. Sprinkle with one-half cup of peanuts.

7. Repeat layers with remaining ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping and peanuts (pan will be full).

8. Cover and freeze for up to 2 months.

9. Remove from the freezer 20 minutes before serving.

Recipe For Peanut Butter Maple Cookies

2008-01-23T20:10:00.000-08:00

Yummy twist to traditional peanut butter cookies. This recipe only takes about 15 minutes to mix up and 18 minutes to bake. The recipe is from an old edition of Quick Cooking.

Peanut Butter Maple Cookies

5 dozen

Ingredients:

1 cup butter or margarine, softened

1/2 cup peanut butter

1 cup sugar

1 cup packed brown sugar

2 eggs

1 tblsp. maple syrup

2 tsps. vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup quick-cooking oats

1 1/2 tsps. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

1 pkg. (10 ozs.) peanut butter chips

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter, peanut butter and sugars.

2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Beat in syrup and vanilla.

4. Combine the flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to the creamed mixture and mix well.

5. Stir in the peanut butter chips.

6. Drop by heaping tablespoonfuls 2-inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets.

7. Bake at 325 degrees for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Cool for 1 minute before removing to wire racks.

Recipe For Sweet and Savory Brisket

2008-01-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

Easy, slow-cooker recipe for beef brisket. The recipe calls for a whole brisket cut in half, but I like to buy and cook it pre-sliced.

Sweet and Savory Brisket
8-10 servings

Ingredients:
1 beef brisket (3-3 1/2 pounds), cut in half
1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup grape jelly
1 envelope onion soup mix
1/2 tsp. pepper

Directions:
1. Place half of the brisket in a slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, combine the ketchup, jelly, soup mix, and pepper; spread over half of the roast.
3. Top with the remaining meat and ketchup mixture.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until meat is tender.
5. Serve brisket sliced with cooking juices.

Recipe For Herbed Bubble Bread

2008-01-04T17:11:00.001-08:00

Quick, bubble bread recipe with a nice mix of spices. Only takes about 10 minutes to prepare, but the dough does need to rise for about an hour. I found this recipe in an old issue of Quick Cooking.

Herbed Bubble Bread

12 servings

Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. oregano

1/2 tsp. thyme

1 pkg. (16 ozs.) frozen dinner roll dough, thawed

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the butter, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme.

2. Cut each roll in half; dip into butter mixture.

3. Arrange in a greased 12-cup fluted tube pan.

4. Pour remaining herb mixture over top.

5. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.

6. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Recipe For Favorite Pancakes

2008-01-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

My mother made these pancakes from as young of an age as I can remember. I believe she configured a recipe based on one in an old Better Homes and Garden cookbook. They only take about 5-10 minutes to mix up and a few minutes to bake on the griddle.

Favorite Pancakes

12 servings

Ingredients:

1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

3 tsps. baking powder

1 tblsp. sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

1 beaten egg

1 cup milk

2 tblsps. vegetable oil

Directions:

1. Sift together dry ingredients.

2. Combine egg, milk, and vegetable oil; add to dry ingredients, stirring just until moistened.

3. Bake on hot griddle.

Recipe For Christmas Sugar Cookies

2007-12-31T16:58:00.000-08:00

Traditional sugar cookie recipe, great for making Christmas cookies. I found this recipe in an old edition of Taste of Home.

Christmas Sugar Cookies
8 dozen

Ingredients:
1 cup butter (no substitutes), softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tsps. vanilla extract
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cream of tartar
1/2 tsp. ground mace
1/8 tsp. salt
Frosting

Directions:
1. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar.
2. Beat in egg, sour cream, honey and vanilla.
3. Combine the dry ingredients; gradually add to the creamed mixture.
4. Cover and chill for 2 hours or until easy to handle.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut with 3-inch cookie cutters dipped in flour.
7. Place 1-inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheets.
8. Bake at 325 degrees for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
9. Frost cookies after removing to wire racks to cool.

Recipe For Super Sloppy Joes

2007-12-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

Easy, great-tasting homemade sloppy joe recipe. Takes about 10 minutes to put together after browning the beef and another 30 minutes simmering on the stove. I don't remember where I found this recipe, but have used it for many years.

Super Sloppy Joes

8-10 servings

Ingredients:

2 pounds ground beef

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 2/3 cups canned, crushed tomatoes

1/4 cup ketchup

2 tblsps. brown sugar

1 tblsp. vinegar

1 tblsp. Worchestershire sauce

1 tblsp. steak sauce

1/2 tsp. garlic salt

1/4 tsp. ground mustard

1/4 tsp. paprika

8-10 hamburger buns

Directions:

1. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook beef and onion until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are tender.

2. Add the next nine ingredients; mix well.

3. Simmer, uncovered, for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Spoon 1/2 cup meat mixture onto each bun.

Recipe For Spicy Dipping Sauce

2007-12-16T13:32:00.000-08:00

I love to use this recipe to dip french fries in, but it was originally intended to use with an onion blossom/onion rings. I got the recipe from a book that tries to mimic restaurant recipes. I think it was 'Top Secret Restaurant Recipes", but I can't remember for sure. I tweaked it a bit for my own taste, but it really reminds me of the dipping sauce at Outback Steakhouse.

Spicy Dipping Sauce
1/2 cup

Ingredients:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tsps. ketchup
2-3 tblsps. cream-style horseradish
1/4 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. dried oregano
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
Dash ground black pepper

Directions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Keep the sauce covered in the refrigerator until needed.

Recipe For Festive Cranberry Salad

2007-12-11T11:45:00.000-08:00

Easy alternative to traditional cranberry salad. Quick to put together, but does need to freeze for several hours. I got this recipe from my mother, but I'm not sure where it originated from.

Festive Cranberry Salad

12-16 servings

Ingredients:

1 can (14 ozs.) sweetened condensed milk

1/4 cup lemon juice

1 can (20 ozs.) crushed pineapple, drained

1 can (16 ozs.) whole-berry cranberry sauce

2 cups miniature marshmallows

1 carton (8 ozs.) frozen whipped topping, thawed

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine the milk and lemon juice; mix well.

2. Stir in the pineapple, cranberry sauce and marshmallows.

3. Fold in whipped topping.

4. Spoon into a 13-in.X 9-in. X 2-in. baking dish.

5. Freeze until firm, 4 hours or overnight.

6. Cut into squares.

Recipe For Party Potatoes

2007-11-24T18:45:00.000-08:00

Tasty mashed potato side dish that is a little different than the normal variety. Takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an hour to bake. I can't remember where I got this recipe- I think it was handed down by a friend.

Party Potatoes

10-12 servings

Ingredients:

4 cups mashed potatoes (about 8-10 large) or 4 cups prepared instant potatoes

1 cup (8 ozs.) sour cream

1 pkg. (8 ozs.) cream cheese, softened

1 tsp. dried chives or 1 tblsp. snipped fresh chives

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 cup dry bread crumbs

1 tblsp. butter or margarine, melted

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, sour cream, cream cheese, chives, and garlic powder.

2. Turn into a greased 2-qt. casserole dish.

3. Combine bread crumbs with butter; sprinkle over potatoes.

4. Bake at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes.

5. Top with cheese and serve immediately.

6. Dish can be assembled a day ahead and baked just before serving.

Recipe For Pumpkin Pound Cake

2007-11-18T20:28:00.000-08:00

I really love this pound cake anytime of the year, but it is especially good during the fall. Sometimes I make it without the walnut sauce. I found this one in an issue of Taste of Home.

Pumpkin Pound Cake

16 servings (1- 2/3 cup sauce)

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened

2 3/4 cup sugar

6 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla extract

3 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ginger

1/4 tsp. ground cloves

1 cup cooked or canned pumpkin

Walnut Sauce:

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup whipping cream, whipped

1/4 cup corn syrup

2 tblsps. butter or margarine

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar.

2. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition; stir in vanilla.

3. Combine the dry ingredients; add to the creamed mixture alternatively with pumpkin, beating just until combined.

4. Pour into two greased and floured 9-in.X 5-in.X 3-in. loaf pans.

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 65-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

6. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

7. For sauce, combine the brown sugar, cream, corn syrup, and butter in a saucepan.

8. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

9. Reduce heat; cook and stir 5 minutes longer.

10. Remove from the heat; stir in walnuts and vanilla.

11. Serve warm over the cake.

Recipe For Homemade Hot Chocolate

2007-11-13T14:35:00.000-08:00

Yummy homemade hot chocolate recipe. I don't remember where I found this recipe, but it only takes minutes to mix together.

Homemade Hot Chocolate

5 servings

Ingredients:

1 cup nonfat dry milk powder

5 tblsps. sugar

3 tblsps. baking cocoa

1/8 to 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

Dash salt

3 cups boiling water

Directions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the milk powder, sugar, cocoa, cinnamon and salt.

2. Add boiling water; stir until powder is dissolved.

Recipe For Marbled Orange Fudge

2007-11-11T14:25:00.000-08:00

Great fall candy! Easy to make and very tasty- from an issue of Quick Cooking.

Marbled Orange Fudge

2 1/2 pounds

Ingredients:

1 1/2 tsps. plus 3/4 cup butter (no substitutes), divided

3 cups sugar

3/4 cup whipping cream

1 pkg. (10-12 ozs.) vanilla or white chips

1 jar (7 ozs.) marshmallow creme

3 tsps. orange extract

12 drops yellow food coloring

5 drops red food coloring

Directions:

1. Grease 13-in.X9-in.X2-in. pan with 1 1/2 tsps. butter.

2. In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, cream, and remaining butter.

3. Cook and stir over low heat until the sugar is dissolved.

4. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 4 minutes.

5. Remove from the heat; stir in chips and marshmallow creme until smooth.

6. Remove 1 cup and set aside; add orange extract and food colorings to remaining mixture; stir until blended.

7. Pour into prepared pan.

8. Drop the reserved marshmallow mixture by tblsp. over top; cut through mixture with a knife to swirl.

9. Cover and refrigerate until set; cut into squares.

Recipe For Ricotta Pepperoni Dip

2007-11-04T12:30:00.000-08:00

Easy appetizer dip that is great for any time of the year. I don't remember where I found this recipe or if it was given to me.

Ricotta Pepperoni Dip

2 1/2 dozen pizza sticks and 2 cups dip

Ingredients:

Pizza Sticks:

1 tube (10 ozs.) refrigerated pizza crust

1 tblsp. olive or vegetable oil

2 tblsps. grated Parmesan cheese

1 tblsp. Italian seasoning

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/8 tsp. pepper

Dip:

1 cup (8 ozs.) sour cream

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 tblsp. savory herb with garlic soup mix

1/4 cup chopped pepperoni

1 cup (4 ozs.) shredded mozarella cheese

1 tblsp. grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza crust to a 12-in.X 8-in. rectangle; brush with oil.

2. Combine the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder and pepper; sprinkle over dough.

3. Cut into 3-inch X 1-inch strips; place on a greased baking sheet.

4. Bake at 425 degrees for 6-9 minutes or until golden brown.

5. Meanwhile, combine the sour cream, ricotta cheese, soup mix, and pepperoni in a saucepan; heat through.

6. Stir in the mozarella and Parmesan cheese just until melted.

7. Serve warm with pizza sticks.

Recipe For Crock O' Brats

2007-11-02T12:26:00.000-07:00

I really like this slow cooker recipe. It is easy and very good. I found it in an old issue of Quick Cooking.

Crock O' Brats

6 servings

Ingredients:

5 bratwurst links (about 1 1/4 pounds), cut into i-inch pieces

5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 can (27 ozs.) sauerkrat, rinsed and well-drained

1 medium tart apple, chopped

1 small onion, chopped

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, brown bratwurst on all sides.

2. In a 5-qt. slow cooker, combine the remaining ingredients; stir in bratwurst and pan drippings.

3. Cover and cook on high for 4-6 hours or until the potatoes and apples are tender.

Recipe For Tangy Meatballs Over Noodles

2007-11-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

Easy recipe which makes several meals. I found it in an issue of Quick Cooking.

Tangy Meatballs Over Noodles
8 servings

Ingredients:
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/3 cup milk
1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
1 tblsp. dried minced onion
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
2 cans (14 3/4 ozs.) each beef gravy
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup cider vinegar
3/4 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1 pkg. (12 ozs.) egg noodles

Directions:
1. In a bowl, combine the first five ingredients.
2. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well.
3. Shape into 1 1/2-inch balls; place 1-in. apart in greased 15-in.X 10-in.X 1-in. pans.
4. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.
5. With a slotted spoon, transfer meatballs to a greased 2 1/2 qt. baking dish.
6. Combine gravy, brown sugar, vinegar, ginger and cloves; pour over meatballs.
7. Cover and bake 30 minutes longer or until the meat is no longer pink.
8. Meanwhile, cook noodles according to package directions; drain.
9. Serve noodles with meatballs.

Recipe For Fruit Pecan Pork Roast

2007-10-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

A great way to cook pork and a good fall recipe. It does take a little bit of time to prepare and almost two hours to bake, but makes for a tasty home-cooked meal. I got this recipe from an issue of Taste of Home.

Fruit Pecan Pork Roast

10-12 servings

Ingredients:

1 rolled boneless pork loin roast (3-4 pounds)

1/2 cup chopped green onions

4 tblsps. butter or margarine, divided

1/4 cup orange juice

1 bay leaf

1 can (16 ozs.) whole-berry cranberry sauce

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup chopped pecans

1 tblsp. cider or red wine vinegar

1/4 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. pepper

1/8 tsp. sugar

Directions:

1. Place roast on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
2. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 1 hour.

3. Meanwhile, in a skillet, saute onions in 1 tblsp. of butter for 1 minute.

4. Add orange juice and bay leaf; cook and stir over medium-high heat until thickened, about 4 minutes.

5. Add the cranberry sauce, broth, pecans, and vinegar; cook and stir until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

6. Reduce heat; stir in the salt, pepper, sugar and remaining butter until butter is melted; remove bay leaf.

7. Slice roast into individual servings and place in greased 13-in.X 9-in. X 2-in. pan.

8. Pour half of the sauce over roast.

9. Bake roast 45 minutes longer, basting with sauce every 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 160-170 degrees.

10. Served with any reserved sauce.

Recipe For Oatmeal Pie

2007-10-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

A hearty fall pie. It reminds many people of a variation on pecan pie without the pecans. This was passed down in our family, so I don't know where it originated from, but it is very tasty with a dollop of vanilla whipped cream.

Oatmeal Pie

8 servings

Ingredients:

1/4 cup margarine

1/2 cup sugar

2 eggs

1/2 tsp. each cinnamon and cloves

1/4 tsp. salt

1 cup light corn syrup

1 cup old-fashioned or quick-cooking rolled oats

unbaked 9-inch pie shell

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, cream together margarine and sugar until fluffy.

2. Beat in eggs, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

3. Stir in corn syrup and oats.

4. Turn into the pie shell.

5. Bake 45 minutes at 350 degrees or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

6. Cool on wire rack.

Recipe For Blueberry Cream Muffins

2007-10-08T16:55:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite muffin recipes! I've been using it for almost 10 years now. They are very quick to prepare and take about 20 minutes to bake.

Blueberry Cream Muffins

2 dozen

Ingredients:

4 eggs

2 cups sugar

1 cup vegetable oil

1 tsp. vanilla extract

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. baking soda

2 tsps. baking powder

2 cups (16 ozs.) sour cream

2 cups blueberries

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs.

2. Gradually add sugar.

3. While beating, slowly pour in oil; add vanilla.

4. Combine the dry ingredients; add alternately with the sour cream to the egg mixture.

5. Gently fold in blueberries.

6. Spoon into greased muffin tins.

7. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.

Recipe For Apple Brickle Dip

2007-09-30T20:37:00.000-07:00

Easy, fun fall appetizer dip and a good way to get kids to eat fruit! It only takes about 5 minutes to mix together, but I would recommend letting it sit in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving.

Apple Brickle Dip

2 cups

Ingredients:

1 pgk. (8 ozs.) cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 pkg. almond brickle chips (7 1/2 ozs.) or English toffee bits (10 ozs.)

3 medium apples, cut into chunks

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugars, and vanilla.

2. Fold in brickle chips.

3. Sprinkle with remaining chips.

4. Serve with apples; refrigerate any leftovers.

Recipe For Scalloped Corn

2007-09-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

A great-tasting side dish that is good for get-togethers and holiday meals. It is a breeze to prepare, but does take an hour to bake. This recipe came from an issue of Quick Cooking.

Scalloped Corn

6 servings

Ingredients:

4 cups fresh or frozen corn

3 eggs, beaten

1 cup milk

1 cup crushed saltines (about 30 crackers), divided

3 tblsps. butter or margarine, melted

1 tblsp. sugar

1 tblsp. finely chopped onion

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the corn, eggs, milk, 3/4 cup cracker crumbs, butter, sugar, onion, salt and pepper.

2. Transfer to a greased 1 1/2 qt. baking dish.

3. Sprinkle with remaining cracker crumbs.

4. Bake, uncovered, at 325 degrees for 1 hour or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

Recipe For Hot German Potato Salad

2007-09-27T20:26:00.000-07:00

This recipe came from an old issue of Taste of Home and I really like it, particularly in the fall. Besides cutting the potatoes, it is easy to prepare and cooks in the slow cooker for 4-5 hours.

Hot German Potato Salad

8-10 servings

Ingredients:

8 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4 inch slices

2 celery ribs, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

1 cup water

2/3 cup cider vinegar

1/3 cup sugar

2 tblsps. quick-cooking tapioca

1 tsp. salt

3/4 tsp. celery seed

1/4 tsp. pepper

6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

1/4 cup minced freash parsley

Directions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine the potatoes, celery and onion.

2. In a bowl, combine water, vinegar, sugar, tapioca, salt, celery seed and pepper.

3. Pour over potatoes; stir gently to coat.

4. Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours or until potatoes are tender.

5. Just before serving, sprinkle with bacon and parsley.

Recipe For Smoky Bacon Wraps

2007-09-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

If you need a good dose of protein, these are great! I got this recipe from an issue of Quick Cooking and they are very fast to prepare and cook for about 30 minutes.

Smoky Bacon Wraps
3 1/2 dozen

Ingredients:
1 pound sliced bacon
1 pkg. (16 ozs.) miniature smoked sausage links
1 cup packed brown sugar

Directions:
1. Cut each bacon strip in half lengthwise.
2. Wrap one piece of bacon around each sausage.
3. Place in a foil-lined 15-in.X10-in.X1-in. baking pan.
4. Sprinkle with brown sugar.
5. Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until bacon is crisp and sausage is heated through.

Recipe For Peanut Butter Squares

2007-09-12T19:57:00.000-07:00

Classic mix of chocolate and peanut butter in a fudge-like consistency. I don't remember where this recipe came from, but I've made it for years now. It only takes about 20 minutes to prepare, but does need to chill for at least several hours in the refrigerator.

Peanut Butter Squares

6 dozen

Ingredients:

2 cups creamy peanut butter

1 cup butter or margarine, divided

1 pkg. (16 ozs.) confectioners' sugar

3 tsps. vanilla extract, divided

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup milk chocolate chips

Directions:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, cook and stir peanut butter and 3/4 cup butter until smooth.

2. Remove from the heat; stir in sugar and 2 tsps. vanilla (mixture will be very thick).

3. Put into a greased 13-in. X 9-in. X 2-in. baking pan.

4. In a saucepan over low heat, combine chips and remaining butter; cook and stir until chips are melted and mixture is smooth.

5. Remove from the heat; stir in the remaining vanilla.

6. Spread over peanut butter layer.

7. Chill until firm.

Recipe For Taco Puffs

2007-09-11T19:51:00.000-07:00

Easy twist on regular tacos that is great for kids. This is a recipe from Quick Cooking magazine and takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake.

Taco Puffs
5 servings

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 envelope taco seasoning
2 tubes (17.3 ozs. each) large refrigerated biscuits
2 cups (8 ozs.) shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:
1. In a skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender; drain.
2. Add the taco seasoning and prepare according to package directions.
3. Cool slightly.
4. Flatten half of the biscuits into 4-inch circles; place in greased 15-in X10-in. X 1-in. baking pans.
5. Spoon 1/4 cup meat mixture onto each; top with 1/4 cup cheese.
6. Flatten remaining biscuits; place on top and pinch edges to seal tightly.
7. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Recipe For Hash Brown Potato Salad

2007-09-10T19:46:00.000-07:00

Great alternative to traditional potato salad. Takes about 20 minutes to put together. I got this recipe from my mother, but don't know where it originated.

Hash Brown Potato Salad
4-6 servings

Ingredients:
1 qt. water
2-3 tsps. salt
1 pkg. (16 ozs.) frozen cubed hash brown potatoes
2 hard-cooked eggs, chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped celery
3 tblsps. sweet pickle relish
2 tblsps. chopped green onions
1 1/2 tsps. yellow mustard
1/8 tsp. pepper

Directions:
1. In a large saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil.
2. Add the hashbrowns; cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Drain thoroughly.
4. Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl; add hashbrowns and stir gently.
5. Cover and chill until serving.

Recipe For Frothy Orange Drink

2007-09-07T19:43:00.001-07:00

Quick, orange smoothie drink perfect for summer. Takes about 5 minutes to mix together. I don't remember where this recipe came from, but I've had it for about 10 years.

Frothy Orange Drink

4 cups

Ingredients:

1 can (6 ozs.) frozen orange juice concentrate, unthawed

1 cup water

1 cup milk

1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

8-10 ice cubes

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.

2. Cover and process until drink is thick and slushy.

Recipe For Feta Bruschetta

2007-09-01T20:16:00.000-07:00

Easy way to prepare a favorite appetizer. Takes about 25 minutes to prepare. The recipe is from Quick Cooking magazine.

Feta Bruschetta

10 servings

Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

1/4 cup olive or vegetable oil

10 slices French bread (1-inch thick)

1 pkg. (4 ozs.) crumbled feta cheese

2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tblsp. minced fresh basil or 1 tsp. dried basil

1 large tomato, seeded and chopped

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine butter and oil; brush onto both sides of bread.

2. Place on a baking sheet; bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned on top.

3. Combine the feta cheese, garlic, and basil; sprinkle over toast.

4. Top with tomato.

5. Bake 8-10 minutes longer or until heated through; serve warm.

Recipe For Blond Toffee Blondies

2007-08-31T20:10:00.000-07:00

Very yummy blondies with the twist of toffee! Takes about 10 minutes to mix together and 35-40 minutes to bake. This recipe came from an old issue of Quick Cooking.

Blond Toffee Blondies
1 1/2 dozen

Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsps. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup English toffee bits or almond brickle chips

Directions:
1. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugars.
2. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition; beat in vanilla.
3. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture.
4. Stir in toffee bits.
5. Spread evenly into a greased 13-in.X 9-in. X2-in. baking pan.
6. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean; cool on a wired rack, cut into bars.

Recipe For Fried Rice

2007-08-29T20:01:00.000-07:00

Easy fried rice recipe that makes a lot. Only takes about 15-20 minutes to put together.

Fried Rice

4 servings

Ingredients:

1/3 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup butter or margarine

4 cups cooked rice

3 tblsps. teriyaki sauce

2 tblsps. minced fresh parsley

1 tsp. garlic powder

1/8 tsp. pepper

1 egg, lightly beaten

Directions:

1. In a skillet, saute onion in butter until tender.

2. Stir in the rice, teriyaki sauce, parsley, garlic powder, and pepper.

3. Cook over medium -low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the egg; cook and stir until egg is completely set, about 3 minutes.

Recipe For French Breakfast Puffs

2007-08-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

Tasty muffin recipe that only takes about 10 minutes to mix together and 20 minutes in the oven.

French Breakfast Puffs

1 dozen

Ingredients:

1/3 cup shortening

1 cup sugar, divided

1 egg

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 tsps. baking powder

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

1/2 cup milk

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

6 tblsps. butter or margarine, melted

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat shortening, 1/2 cup sugar and egg until smooth.

2. Combine the flour, baking powder, salt and nutmeg; add to the sugar mixture alternately with milk.

3. Fill greased muffin cups 2/3 full.

4. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes are until a toothpick comes out clean.

5. Meanwhile, combine the cinnamon and remaining sugar in a shallow bowl.

6. Roll the warm puffs in butter, then in cinnamon sugar; serve immediately.

Recipe For Sausage Biscuit Bites

2007-08-22T20:11:00.000-07:00

Quick appetizer- great for fall. Only takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to bake.

Sausage Biscuit Bites
40 appetizers

Ingredients:
1 tube (7 1/2 ozs.) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1 tblsp. butter or margarine, melted
4 1/2 tsps. grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 pkg. (8 ozs.) brown-and-serve sausage links

Directions:
1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each biscuit into a 4-inch circle; brush with butter.
2. Combine Parmesan cheese and oregano; sprinkle over butter.
3. Place a sausage link in the center of each; roll up.
4. Cut each widthwise into four pieces; insert a toothpick into each.
5. Place on an ungreased baking sheet.
6. Bake at 375 degrees for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

Recipe For Shredded Beef Sandwiches

2007-08-21T20:02:00.001-07:00

This is a great and easy recipe for using your slow cooker. It only takes about 10 minute to put together and then cooks on its own for 10-12 hours. I usually like to toast or broil the buns before serving.

Shredded Beef Sandwiches

12 Servings

Ingredients:

1 boneless beef tip roast (about 3 pounds)

1 medium onion, chopped

1/3 cup vinegar

3 bay leaves

1/2 tsp. salt, optional

1/4 tsp. ground cloves

1/4 tsp. garlic powser

12 hamburger buns

Directions:

1. Cut roast in half; place in slow cooker.

2. Combine onion, vinegar, bay leaves, salt if desired, cloves and garlic powder; pour over roast.

3. Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours or until meat is very tender.

4. Discard bay leaves.

5. Remove meat and shred with a fork.

6. Serve on buns.

Recipe For Sunny Citrus Cooler

2007-08-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

Refreshing summer drink. Only takes about 5 minutes to mix together.

Ingredients:

1 can (46 ozs.) pineapple juice

2 cans (12 ozs. each) frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed

3/4 cup lemonade concentrate

6 cups ginger ale or white soda, chilled

Orange slices, optional

Directions:

1. In a 1-gallon pitcher, combine pineapple juice, orange juice concentrate and lemonade concentrate.

2. Add ginger ale and mix well.

3. Serve over ice and garnish with orange slices if desired; refrigerate leftovers.

Recipe For Deluxe Potatoes

2007-08-04T13:00:00.000-07:00

A definite favorite standby potato recipe! Feeds a lot at once and great for family gatherings.Takes about 10 minutes to put together and 1 hour to bake.

Deluxe Potatoes

12-16 servings

Ingredients:

2 pounds frozen hash browns (southern-style hash browns), thawed

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 cup cream of chicken soup

1/2 stick melted butter or margarine

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 pt. sour cream

Topping:

1 cup cornflakes, crushed

1/2 stick butter or margarine, melted

Directions:

1. Mix all ingredients except potatoes.

2. Stir in potatoes.

3. Spread into a 13-in.X 9-in. X 2-in. pan.

4. Mix topping and spread over potatoes.

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.

Recipe For Savory Biscuit Bites

2007-07-27T14:26:00.000-07:00

Easy, quick side dish recipe. Takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. I think it is from an old Quick Cooking magazine.

Savory Biscuit Bites
40 pieces

Ingredients:
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
2 tblsps. grated Parmesan cheese
1 tblsp. dried minced onion
1- 1/2 tsp. dried parsley flakes
1 pkg. (12 ozs.) refrigerated biscuits

Directions:
1. In a bowl, combine butter, cheese, onion and parsley.
2. Cut biscuits into quarters; roll in butter mixture.
3. Place in a greased 15-in.X10-in.X1-in. baking pan; let stand for 25 minutes.
4. Bake at 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Recipe For Butterscotch Blondies

2007-07-22T13:49:00.000-07:00

This recipe is one of my favorite desserts. It is very high in calories, so if you are looking for something healthy, this definitely is not it. I think it was the original Hersheys' recipe, but I'm not sure. The recipe takes about 15 minutes to mix together and 30 minutes to bake.

Butterscotch Blondies

3 dozen

Ingredients:

3/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup sugar

2 eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1 pkg. (10 ozs.) butterscotch chips

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy.

2. Add eggs; blend well.

3. In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to butter mixture , mixing well.

4. Stir in butterscotch chips.

5. Spread in a greased 13-in.x9-in.x2-in. baking pan.

6. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and center is set.

7. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack; cut into bars.

Recipe For Cookies-N-Cream Fluff

2007-07-16T20:17:00.001-07:00

Great, easy dessert! Takes about 10 minutes to put together.

Cookies-N-Cream Fluff

6 servings

Ingredients:

2 cups cold milk

1 pkg. (3.4 ozs.) instant vanilla pudding mix

1 carton (8 ozs.) whipped topping, thawed

15 chocolate cream-filled sandwich cookies, broken into chunks

Additional broken cookies, optional

Directions:

1. In a bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes or until slightly thickened.

2. Fold in whipped topping and cookies.

3. Top with additional cookies if desired; refrigerate until serving.

Recipe For Spicy Garlic Chicken Pizza

2007-07-15T15:15:00.000-07:00

I don't remember where I found this recipe, but I've been making it for many years. It is fairly spicy and not a regular version of pizza, so if you want a traditional pizza, this isn 't it! The recipe takes about 45 minutes to prepare and 12 minutes to bake.

Spicy Garlic Chicken Pizza
6-8 servings

Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1/2 c. green onions
3 cloves minced or 1 1/2 tsp. prepared garlic
4 tblsp. soy sauce
4 tblsp. rice wine vinegar
2 tblsp. olive oil and 1 tsp. olive oil
1 tsp. crushed red pepper
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. cornstarch
1 Italian pizza bread shell
1/2 c. Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 c. mozarella cheese
2 tblsp. pine nuts

Directions:
1. Brown chicken and cut into 1/2 strips.
2. Combine 1/2 of the green onions and all of the garlic, soy sauce and vinegar with 2 tblsp. olive oil and red and black peppers.
3. Add chicken; marinade for 30 mins. at room temperature.
4. Drain and reserve marinade.
5. Heat remaining oil and add cornstarch to marinade; heat in skillet until thick and bubbly.
6. Spread marinade and chicken over the pizza shell.
7. Add pine nuts, cheese and remaining green onions.
8. Bake at 400 degrees for 12 mins.

Recipe For Chili Cheese Dip

2007-07-09T20:49:00.001-07:00

Quick appetizer dip- only takes about 10 minutes in total prep and cooking time.

Chili Cheese Dip

12 servings

Ingredients:

1 can (15 ozs.) chili con carne without beans

1 pound process American cheese, cubed

1 can (4 ozs.) chopped green chilies

Tortilla chips

Directions:

1. Combine chili, cheese, and chilies in a saucepan.

2. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cheese is melted.

3. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

Recipe For Sky-High Strawberry Pie

2007-07-04T20:51:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th! Hope everyone had a safe and fun holiday! This strawberry pie recipe is one of my favorites. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and a few hours left alone in the refrigerator to gel together completely. I found this recipe a few years ago in a Taste of Home magazine.

Sky-High Strawberry Pie
8-10 servings

Ingredients:
3 qts. fresh strawberries, divided
1 1/2 cups sugar
6 tblsps. cornstarch
2/3 cup water
Red food coloring, optional
1 deep-dish pastry shell (10 inches), lightly baked and cooled

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, mash enough berries to equal 3 cups.
2. In a saucepen, combine the sugar and cornstarch.
3. Stir in the mashed berries and water; mix well.
4. Bring to a boil over medium heat; stirring constantly.
5. Cook and stir for 5 minutes.
6. Remove from the heat; add food coloring if desired.
7. Pour into a large bowl.
8. Chill for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture is just slightly warm.
9. Fold in the remaining berries; pile into pie shell.
10. Chill for 2-3 hours.

Recipe For Red, White and Blue Salad

2007-07-01T20:56:00.000-07:00

Just in time for the 4th! This fruit salad is one of my favorites. If you are feeling really creative, you can use the blueberries and strawberries to make a flag on the top of the salad, but I've never gone that far. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare and most of the time I use frozen blueberries (thawed) instead of fresh. I found this recipe about 6 years ago in an issue of Taste of Home.

Red, White and Blue Salad

18 servings

Ingredients:

2 pkgs. (8 ozs. each) cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. almond extract

2 cups heavy cream, whipped

2 qts. strawberries, halved, divided

2 qts. blueberries, divided

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and extracts until fluffy.

2. Fold in the whipped heavy cream.

3. Place a third of the mixture in a 4-qt. bowl.

4. Reserve 20 strawberries and 1/2 cup blueberries for garnish.

5. Layer half of the remaining strawberries and blueberries over the cream mixture.

6. Top with another third of the cream mixture and the remaining berries.

7. Spread the remaining cream mixture on top.

8. Use the reserved strawberries and blueberries to make a "flag" on top.

Baked Spaghetti

2007-06-28T19:52:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe in a Quick Cooking issue. It reheats well and actually tastes better the second day. It takes about 30 minutes to put together and about 35 minutes to bake.

Baked Spaghetti

12 servings

Ingredients:

1 pkg. (12 ozs.) spaghetti

1-1/2 pounds ground beef

1 medium green pepper, chopped

1 medium onion, chopped

1 can (14-1/2 ozs.) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (8 ozs.) tomato sauce

1 tblsp. brown sugar

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef, green pepper and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.

3. Stir in the tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, salt, chili powder, pepper, garlic powder and cayenne pepper.

4. Drain spaghetti; add to the beef mixture.

5. Transfer to a greased 13-in X 9-in. X 2-in. baking dish.

6. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

7. Uncover; sprinkle with cheese.

8. Bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

Recipe For Company Mac and Cheese

2007-06-27T19:20:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe in an old edition of Taste of Home. I don't think anything can beat good homemade macaroni and cheese and I've made this particular version many times. You can add more or less macaroni depending on how hearty or soupy you like it. Takes about 20-30 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake.
Company Mac and Cheese

6-8 servings

Ingredients:

2 pkgs. (7 ozs. each) elbow macaroni

6 tblsps. butter or margarine, divided

3 tblsps. all-purpose flour

2 cups. milk

1 pkg. (8 ozs.) cream cheese, cubed

2 cups (8 ozs.) shredded cheddar cheese

2 tsps. spicy brown mustard

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

3/4 cups dry bread crumbs

2 tblsps. minced fresh parsley

Directions:

1. Cook macaroni according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, melt 4 tblsps. butter in a large saucepan.

3. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add milk.

4. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes.

5. Reduce heat: add cheeses, mustard, salt and pepper.

6. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

7. Drain macaroni; add to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.

8. Transfer to a greased, shallow 3-qt. baking dish.

9. Melt the remaining butter; toss with bread crumbs and parsley; sprinkle over macaroni.

10. Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Recipe For M&M Cookies

2007-06-25T20:43:00.000-07:00

Yummy cookies! This recipe is at least 30 years old as my mom made them before I was even in school. Takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to bake.

M&M Cookies

Makes 72 cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup shortening

1 tsp. salt

1/2 cup sugar

2 1/4 all -purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

3 cups M&Ms

2 eggs

2 tsp. vanilla

1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed

Directions:

1. Blend shortening and sugars in a large bowl.

2. Beat in vanilla and eggs.

3. Sift dry ingredients together.

4. Add to mixture, blending well.

5. Stir in 1 1/2 cup of candies.

6. Drop by tsp. on ungreased baking sheet.

7. Decorate tops with remaining candy.

8. Bake 10 minutes at 375 degrees or until golden brown; some cracking may occur.

Recipe For Chicken-N-Chips

2007-06-21T19:18:00.000-07:00

Easy meal , fast to put together. I saved this recipe from an old edition of Quick Cooking and have made it many times over the years. Takes about 10 minutes to put together and 30 minutes to bake.

Chicken-N-Chips
4-6 servings

Ingredients:
1 can (10 3/4 ozs.) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1 cup (8 ozs.) sour cream
2 tblsps. taco sauce
1/4 cup chopped green chilies
3 cups cubed cooked chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 cups broken tortilla chips

Directions:
1. In a bowl, combine the soup, sour cream, taco sauce and chilies.
2. In an ungreased shallow 2-qt. baking dish, layer half of the chicken, soup mixture, cheese and tortilla chips.
3. Repeat layers.
4. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.

Recipe For Angel Frost

2007-06-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

A cool summer smoothie drink. Takes less than 5 minutes to put together and blend. My mom started making this when I was a teenager, but I don't know where the recipe came from.

Angel Frost

4-6 servings

Ingredients:

6 oz. can frozen pink lemonade

1 cup milk

1 pkg. (10 ozs.) frozen strawberries in syrup, partially thawed

1 pint vanilla ice cream

Directions:

1. In a blender, place ingredients in order given.

2. Blend until smooth.

Recipe For Cinnamon Coffee Cake

2007-06-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

Sweet and moist coffee cake with plenty of calories. Takes about 20-30 minutes to prepare and another 50-60 minutes to bake.

Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Serves: 16-20

Ingredients:
1 cup butter or margarine, softened
2-3/4 cups sugar, divided
2 tsps. vanilla extract
4 eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsps. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
2 cups (16 ozs.) sour cream
2 tblsps. ground cinnamon

Directions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and 2 cups sugar until fluffy.
2. Add vanilla.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add alternately with sour cream, beating just enough after each addition to keep batter smooth.
5. Spoon 1/3 of batter into a greased 13X9X2-in. pan.
6. Combine cinnamon and remaining sugar; sprinkle 1/3 over batter.
7. Repeat layers 2 more times; bake at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes or until cake tests done.
8. Cool for 10 minutes; remove from wire rack to cool completely.