Quick, easy, and delicious ranch chicken dinner

After my run today I knew I was going to make chicken. I always struggle to find new recipes for chicken! I love the ones I have but thats the whole excitement of cooking, trying new things!! I knew I wanted something easy... so I began surfing pinterest! Found a great one!! Its everything in one dish too!! No need to dirty multiple dishes or wait while the other gets cold! ! You wont be disappointed I promise!!

Ranch Chicken Dinner

1pkg dry ranch (the recipe called for dry  Italian pkg)
Chicken breast
Green beans (I used a can, fresh would be much better)
Potatoes diced in 1/4ths
Butter

400 preheat
Line green beana one side of baking dish, chicken in the middle, potatoes on the other side. Sprinkle your ranch packet over all of it. Slice up 1 stick of butter and lay over everything.  Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes! !!!! Sooo good!!! Enjoy!

Yummy Chicken Tacos, and Chipotle Pork Carnitas!~

Today was a very productive day thank goodness!! I needed it! And to make it even better, the recipes turned out great!!! Lets start with lunch for today.

Chicken Tacos with Spiced Mayo and Avocado Salsa

For the chicken

However many pieces of chicken you want
zest of a lime
1/4t cumin
1/2t salt
1/4t pepper

Mix these ingredients in a bowl then spread on chicken. Grill it up!! Then dice up!

Spiced Mayo (new favorite YUMM)

1/2c mayo
2T lime juice
1t hot sauce
1/4t cumin
Water

mix all ingredients expect water.  Add the water one teaspoon at a time until it is drizzle-able.

Avocado Salsa

1-2 avocados (depending on how much you want to make, I only used one)
Roma tomato diced (again depends how much you make)
Green Onion
2T lime juice
1T fresh cilantro chopped
1/4t hot sauce
lil bit of olive oil.

Assemble all and enjoy!!! Definitely hit the spot for me today.

 

 

 

 

I got my dinner ready while I was making lunch too! I tried a small piece and it was yummy, but I'm not hungry yet so have not made a full meal of it. 

Chipotle Crock-pot Carnitas

Pork Roast, Butt, Loin ( your choice)
2 cans Rotell tomato's with green chilies
2-4 garlic cloves minced
small onion chopped
1/2t oregano
1/4t ground cloves
2t chipotle pepper
1t cumin
1c beef broth
1t salt
1t pepper
2 pay leafs

Brown your pork in oil on all sides then place in crock pot. Add the rest of the ingredients and cook on low 8-10 hours!!! Piece of Cake!!! I am going to make alil taco out of it but it is very yummy by itself!

 

okay so I had to jump back on here and add and write more after I published this!!! OMG this is sooo good, I was somewhat apprehensive about it but man it has such good flavor and just the right amount of spice!!!!

 

 

 

I also made some chocolate chip cookies. Nothing special to the recipe, I always use butter flavored Crisco and use the recipe that comes with that!!! Refuse to make them without the Crisco!!

 

 

 



Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Cheesecake delishiousness!!!

So today was not my typical Monday since I had to work for a few hours to do a training but still found time to fit in baking and cooking. It really is therapeutic for me to do these things!! Just glad I have people in my life to enjoy my creations or I really would be wasting money and food!!! Sooo lets start with dessert today since it was and is probably my favorite dessert thus far!!! YUMMMM!!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie Cheesecake Bars!!!! (or just eat the whole pan)

Brownie batter
3/4c butter
6oz dark chocolate, chopped
1-1/2c sugar
1/2c brown sugar
1-1/2 t vanilla
3 large eggs
1c flour
1 120z pkg reese's pieces minis chopped in 1/4ths (pain in the ass but do it cut in 1/4ths)

Melt the butter with the chopped dark chocolate in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to 1 minute. Careful not to burn.  Add the brown sugar, sugar, vanilla and eggs til mixed well. Add the flour and stir. Fold in 1/2 of the reese's pieces.  Line a 9x13 baking dish with foil and spray lightly with cooking spray.  Add the batter.

Cheesecake filling
8oz cream cheese softened
1/4c butter softened
1/2t salt
1/2c sugar
1 egg
1/2t vanilla
1c peanut butter

Mix the cream cheese and butter til fluffy, approximately 2 minutes.  Add the salt, sugar, egg, and vanilla. Beat with mixer another 2 minutes.  Add the peanut butter. Beat with mixer 2 minutes. Spread over top of the batter. Bake 350 for 35-40 minutes (I did 40). Remove from oven and cool completely. Then refrigerate for 1 hour.

After the hour melt 1 bag of semi sweet chocolate chips.  ( I added some heavy cream to them). Spread over time and sprinkle with remainder of Reese's pieces. Refrigerate until set.  OMG this was the hardest part for me to do!!! I had to get out of my house because I kept wanting to cut into it and eat them!!!  You will not be disappointed I promise!!!

Okay so lets get to the boring part! hahaha the chicken dish I made tonight! I wanted something different. I always just grill my chicken or bake it or make one of my favorite momma recipes so wanted to try something new.  This turned out great!!! I had ricotta cheese in my fridge so I went searching for ricotta and chicken recipes and this was not a disappointment!!

Chicken, Mushroom, Bacon Yumminess!!

2cups cooked diced chicken
pasta of your choice
baby portabella mushrooms sliced diced, whatever you want
2-3 pieces of bacon cooked and chopped
3-4 cloves of garlic minced
1 small onion chopped
1c chicken broth
1c half and half
1c ricotta cheese
salt, pepper, Italian seasoning
Parmesan cheese

Cook your bacon in larger skillet. Once cooked remove. Add your onion and garlic to the same skillet and cook until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook until soft. Add your 1/2 and 1/2, chicken bullion, ricotta, salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings. Cook for a few minutes.  Add your pasta, chicken, bacon, and parmesan cheese!! Serve it up!!! Delish!!!!  Everything I was hoping it would be tonight!!

Steak and Potato Grilled Cheese, Asiago Chicken Penne, and Chocolate Malt Cupcakes!!!!!

Lunch, dinner, and dessert for ya today!!!  It was such a nice day today! I got lots accomplished. I went for a run this morning, which I love doing because it reminds me of home getting to run around a huge pond!!  Got my yard picked up a bit, played with Buddy, and of course mopped the floors before beginning to cook/bake! So after my run I needed some fuel before starting the day so I decided to spice up the typical grilled cheese!!

Steak and Potato Grilled Cheese

Steak (sliced real thing) I found thin strips at Giant Eagle for 1.90$ that worked perfect!!!
Potato Sliced thing (I got to use my slice o matic!!!
Onion, sliced
Bread of your choice
butter
green onion
provolone cheese

First thing to start is the onion. Slice them thin and put some butter in a pan and caramelize them on the stove.  I also then sliced my potato's and tossed them with olive oil and salt, pepper, and garlic powder. I put them on a cookie sheet and threw them in the oven at 475 for a few minutes. Okay so then I seasoned my steak pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder and threw them on the grill for a few minutes. Whatever bread you decide to use, put some butter on it and then throw it on the grill and grill it up! YUMM!! okay so then just put everything together. Steak, potato, onion and cheese. Grill til nice and melted. I then put mayo on it and sprinkled some green onion! Delish!!!

The next recipe I will share I actually made yesterday for my girlfriend for lunch! It turned out pretty tasty!!! I have a TON leftover too to take for lunches!

Asiago Chicken Penne

3-4 small pieces of chicken diced
4-5 pieces of bacon, cooked and diced
1pkg Penne pasta
3/4c heavy cream
1c asiago cheese
1c onion
3-4 garlic cloves minced (it only called for 2....but you know me!!!)
1c diced tomatoes
1T basil
1T parsley
1T oregano
3tsp sugar
1/4t pepper
2T butter
2T olive oil

1. Cook pasta noodles according to instructions. Strain and set aside in large bowl.
2. Heat oil in large skillet. Add chicken and cook until done. Place in a bowl and set aside
3. Heat butter in same large skillet. Add cooked bacon, onion, and garlic. Sautee. Remove and add to pasta.
4. Add the tomatoes (with liquid), oregano, basil, sugar, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until liquid is slightly reduced. Add cream and chicken and cook approximately 5-10 minutes. stirring occasionally.
5. Add cheese and stir until melted.
Pour sauce mixture over the pasta and toss well. Serve with grated parmesan cheese.

For dessert, of course, CUPCAKES! I get in spurts of baking cupcakes on Mondays I think! Well here is another delish one! I was in the mood for chocolate last night and man this did it!!

Chocolate Malt Cupcakes
This recipe will make 30 so adjust as you'd like (I made a bunch to share with co-workers)

Cupcakes

2-1/4c flour
3/4c dark chocolate coca powder (You can use regular too I just wanted dark!)
1/2c sugar
3/4 c brown sugar
1-1/2t baking soda
1/2t salt
1c Whole Milk
1-1/2c malted milk powder (Okay looked everywhere couldn't find bought Ovaltine instead)
1c veggie oil
3Large eggs (at room temp)
1c sour cream (at room temp)
1t vanilla

Whisk in flour, coca, both sugars, baking soda and salt. Set aside. In another bowl, whisk in milk and malt powder til dissolved. Add the milk mixture to the flour mix slowly and the oil. Add eggs one at a time until combined. Add sour cream and vanilla. Fill your little muffin tins! (I also added some crushed up whoppers to some of the batter) Bake 350 for 18-20 minutes

Buttercream Frosting

1c unsalted butter (room temp)
1c veggie shortening (at room temp)
1/2c malted milk powder (ovaltine)
4T coca
5c powdered sugar

Whip butter and shortening til light and fluffy. Sprinkle with malt powder and coca. Add powdered sugar slowly. This part sucked it was a pain, but definitely turned out yummy.  I sprinkled my cupcakes after I frosted them with crushed Whoppers and put some on top of them as well.

I would also like to share two of my most favorite beers, both IPA's.  The first is called HopSlam brewed by Bells Brewery.  This beer was introduced to me about a month ago. It is very hard to find , and a bit pricey, but totally worth it! It is 10% alcohol so watch out, but taste heavenly. When stores get the shipment in it is gone within 24 hours. Also only selected restaurants receive this and it goes quickly as well. We found it while visiting a restaurant near the short north called Mac's, if you are ever in Columbus, you must stop at Mac's (located on high street) to try their Scotch Egg!! The egg and the beer made for a wonderful evening. 

The second beer I will share with you was this past Friday's beer choice.  I was drawn to the dragonfly of course as it again reminded me of home. Sitting on the dock at mom and dad's watching all the cool looking dragonflies go by! Sold!! I was pleasantly surprised by this IPA from Bloomington Indiana. Definitely a keeper and will be purchasing again! Hope everyone enjoys!!!

Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate and wine!!!

I have had the chocolate itch lately ever since I was lucky enough to be introduced to this chocolate cake at a restaurant here at Easton, Smith and Wollensky.  This cake was huge and probably the best chocolate cake I've had, sorry momma!!! Sooooo with that being said, I had this same friend over for dinner and wanted to make my own dessert..... tough to compare to this chocolate cake but man was it delish! People I'm sure have made this before and call it all sorts of names, I will call it........

Fudgy Chocolate Wonderfulness

1 cup Flour
2t baking soda
1/2c brown sugar
1-1/4c sugar
1/2c Hershey cocoa
1/4 salt
1-1/2t vanilla
1/3c butter
1/2c milk
1-1/4c hot water

Preheat oven 350. Heat the water on the stove until just under a simmer.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine ¾ cup of the granulated sugar, flour, ¼ cup of the cocoa, baking powder and salt. Stir in milk, melted butter and vanilla and mix until smooth.

 

Pour the batter into an lightly greased 2-quart ceramic or a 9-inch square baking and spread evenly.

 

In a small bowl, stir together the remaining ½ cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, remaining ¼ cup cocoa and mix well. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in your dish or pan. Pour the hot water over the top – but do not stir! Repeat DO NOT STIRE

 

Bake 35-40 minutes if using a glass dish (or 30-35 minutes if using a metal pan) – or until the center is almost set. Remove your dish from the oven and allow it to sit 15 minutes!! Be patience I promise it is worth it!

 

Best served of course with ice cream! It was a definite success!! Okay so it is not my photo, but I forgot to take one I was the inpatient one!!

 

The second dessert came about while I was browsing at work! I really had a taste for something with Oreo's in it and came across a cupcake that was perfect!!! Although I was some what hesitant when I read the recipe and thought to myself, "this is way to easy and I'm not sure about the cookie on the bottom." Well all I needed for it was Oreo's from the store and decided to go for it! I knew if I didn't eat them I knew lots of people who would!!

 

 

Oreo Cheesecake Cupcakes

 

 

20 Oreo cookies (12 left whole for the bottoms)

3/4c powdered sugar

1 pkg cream cheese softened

2 egg whites

pinch of salt

 

1/4c heavy cream

1/4c chocolate chips

 

Place cupcake liners in your tin. Add an Oreo to each tin. With the remaining Oreo's coarsely chop them.

With your mixer mix powdered sugar and cream cheese until combined. Add one egg white at a time and mix on medium speed until just blended, do not over mix. Add a pinch of salt.  Fold in chopped Oreos. Spoon on top of cookie in the tin. Bake for 25 minutes until center is set.

To make the chocolate ganche melt the chocolate chips and stir in the heavy cream until combined. Spoon over cupcakes and let cool.  After they have cooled place in the fridge.

 

Okay so you know how I said I was not so sure about these.  I'm 110% sure now that they are AMAZING!!! Good thing it only makes 12!!!!

 

 

To go along with the desserts, I thought I would share a new wine that is my new favorite affordable wine. You can find it at Giant Eagle or Kroger or probably at any store near you! It is

Michael David wine Petite petit. The reason I chose to try this was because there was only one bottle left and thought that mannnn this must be good, and sure enough!! It was delish and had elephants on the label which reminded me of my momma!

 

 



 

Back in Action!! Shrimp and Corn Chowder and Snickerdoodle Cupcakes!

Hey everyone!!!  I know I have been away from blogging for a while, but lots in my life has changed!! Of course for the best! I may not blog as often because I have changed my diet. Cooking for one will do that for ya, and wanting to lose weight! I primarily eat chicken, and fish with my roasted veggies of course. From time to time I do find new recipes to try and will of course share them.  I also continue to bake from time to time for others!!! I will also be adding to my repertoire and sharing my new found enjoyment, craft beers!!!  I had a very busy day on Saturday with a lot of running around to purchase items to finally remodel my bathroom!!! Mom and dad are coming to visit this weekend to help me out! Can't wait!!! Pictures definitely to come! So as I was running around Saturday I had already picked out a recipe weeks ago that I've wanted to try and had to pick up a few things. These two recipes turned out DELISH!!!


Shrimp and Corn Chowder

4 slices of bacon, diced
1 lb medium shrimp peeled and deveined
3 (or if your me more) garlic cloves minced
1 onion diced
2tsp smoked paprika or more to taste (this makes if spend the extra to get the smoked paprika!)
1/2t dried oregano
1/2t dried basil
1/4t crushed red pepper flakes
salt and pepper
4 c chicken stock
2 cups or 1 can corn (frozen, canned or roasted) I used can
1 bay leaf
1/4c heavy cream

What to do:
Heat a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel. Reserve 1T of drippings. Add shrimp to stockpot and cook until pink then set the shrimp aside.  Add the garlic and onion to the stock pot and cook until translucent. Stir in paprika, oregano, basil and read pepper flakes until fragrant. (1-2min).  add salt and pepper to taste.
Whisk in chicken stock, corn and bay leaf. Bring to boil and then reduce to a simmer. 12-15mintues. Discard bay leaf. Add heavy cream and puree in blender. Add your shrimp back to mixture. Serve and top with bacon and parsley.!!! This is one of my new favorites!!!!

So on to dessert!! Had to get back in the cupcake groove!! And a friend was helping me out with some things and he had mentioned that he enjoys snicker doodles so thought that this was perfect!!! So easy to make too and yummy!!

Snickerdoodle Cupcakes

Cupcake
1-2/3c flour
1/2t baking powder
1/4t baking soda
1/2t salt
1-1/2c sugar divided
1/2c (1 stick) butter, melted
1/4 c yogurt (I used a vanilla yogurt)
1 large egg
3/4c milk
1T vanilla extract
2 tsp cinnamon

Frosting
1c butter room temp
3/4c powdered sugar
1/4c heavy cream
2t vanilla extract
1T cinnamon
(The frosting does not make a lot FYI)

Preheat oven 350. Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. Melt butter. In bowl place melted butter. Whisk in 1c sugar. Stir in egg, yogurt, milk, and vanilla until combined. Slowly mix in dry ingredients until no lumps. 

In small bowl mix the remaining 1/2c sugar and cinnamon. Spoon a small amount of batter into the tins. then sprinkle with sugar cinnamon mixture. Repeat this until 3/4 full. Then top all with more sugar mixture. Bake 19-21 minutes

FROSTING
Beat softened butter for about 3 minutes until smooth and creamy. add p.sugar, cream and vanilla. Beat 3 minutes. Add some cinnamon when complete!

HOPE you enjoy!!!

Ham, potato, corn chowder

Sundays are the best! Especially when the Browns win!  I also get to clip my coupons, cook yummy stuff, and watch football!!!! I always try to make a new appetizer on Sunday, but today went with an old recipe.  Crab ragoon and asparagus! Then for dinner, since its a little chilly out, soup/chowder!

Crab Ragoon

1-8oz cream cheese Softened
2t Worcestershire sauce
1/2t soy sauce
2 green onions chopped
1/8t garlic powder
Wanton wrap

Mix it all up spoon 1t in middle of wrap and fold up. Beat an egg and brush the edge of the wrap.  Cook 425 12 minutes or until slightly browned. Yuuuumm

Ham, potato, corn chowder

2 ham shank I also add 1pkg diced ham
2c cHicken bullion
Celery
Carrots
1can corn
Red potatos
Yellow onion
All diced
3c milk
4T butter
1/4c flour + 2T
Salt
Pepper
1/2c sour cream
Oregano
Bacon
Chives
Cheese

Okay, throw all veggies and ham in crock pot. Add chicken bullion salt pepper oregano

On stove melt butter. Add flour.  WHisk.  Slowly stir in milk. Cook til thick. Add salt and pepper. Once tHick take off heat and add sour cream.  pour in crock pot. I put on High  a few hours then low til I was ready to eat. Cook baCon and crumble on top.  Sprinkle with chives and cheese. 

Pies Gourmet Pizza Bistro

Soo most Thursdaya through October I have a training in our Columbus office which is 5.5 miles from my new house!!! Mannnn I wish I could work there full time!! But I have my reasons why I wont now so its all good. But man training til 4 and the rest of the day off is GREAT!! Finally took Erin to one of my favorite spots in columbus,  Pies Gourmet pizza bistro!! They have seating inside,  outside, and a pub called "pies in the sky. The pub since is in the upstairs of the resturant hence the name. We sat outside of course on this awesome day!! The restaurant is an old colonial house, its great!!! There menu is semi-fancy but reasonable price for fancy! ! We started with my favorite,  crispy fried brussel sprouts!! To die for!! Then fried red pepper ravioli, foegot the before pic hahaha soo good! ! And to finish....I couldn't resist, bread pudding! !! I have been dreaming of the bread pudding since I first had it months ago!! I always think of my girl Shauna when I go there and so many other fun memories just love the place. It is further now from my new house but well worth it to drive back. They are only open Tuesday through Saturday at 5pm, but happy hour from 4-7 I believe. Almost forgot the cocktail was " Katies grapefruit and pear fizz." It is homemade grapefruit and pear infused vodka.  Taste like fresca!! Dangerous! !! They have beer of all sorts, wine, and real good Moscow mules in copper mugs!!  Such a great time, you must go if youre on the east side of columbus! !

Spicing Up Leftovers

So again today I had no plans for dinner.... I think I like the challenge! I still had shredded chicken from sunday so wanted to use it. I got on pinterest and found another lady who loves to blog just like me!! She had a recipe for chicken tacos, which sounded yummy so I adapted it to what I had. It was very yummy!! Her recipe called to do it all in the crockpot but I already had my chicken so i improvised!

Chicken Tacos

Shredded chicken
Taco seasoning
Dry ranch mix...I used ranch dressing didnt have the dry mix
Chicken broth
Salsa

I just threw it all in a pan on the stove mixed it up and heates for a little. Put as much of the ingredients as you like and wahllaa! Quick easy meal, especially when my favorite show is on CRIMINAL MINDS!  Of course I had roasted veggies too (brussel sprouts, mushrooms, cauliflower,  broccoli) I just cant get enough!! 

Chipolte Mayo Perch

I had no idea what I was going to cook when I left the house this morning. Its Tuesday, meaning my long day...and I was dreading it as soon as I woke up. Well turned out today went by really fast and got to leave 45 minutes early. Sooo during the day a client discussed fishing which sounded real good to eat for dinner. Erin helped me get my wheels turning on the drive home.  Here is what was decided, a made up Katie recipe!!

Chipolte Mayo Perch

2/3c mayo
1/2t onion powder
1/2t garlic powder
1/4 pepper
2-2&1/2T Tabasco chipolte sauce
Bread crumbs & parmesan cheese.
400 degree oven.

Mix all together but crumb and cheese. Dredge fish in mayo mix. Place in greased pan. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and bread crumbs.  Cook 10-11 minutes.  Then broil for 2-3. Enjoy!! Very good! Will definitely make again. Chris wished there was more to take for lunch tomorrow! !!

Yummy appetizers and pumpkin cheesecake cupcakes!!!

Today I am just including a bunch of random recipes I have made over the last two days! Yesterday I went to visit my friend Sara and her new puppy and decided I wanted to make some appetizers and sangria for us to enjoy!! Yesterday was such a perfect day for sangria, snacks and sitting outside!  Here is what I did, lets start with the sangria!!

Strawberry Wine Sangria

1 bottle of strawberry wine ( I was lucky to have my dads)
Triple Sec (i dunno how much i put it but probably like 1/2c or 1c)
Sprite to give it fizz
Oranges, lemons, limes!
I also topped it off with some Cabernet. I did this in each glass though and man was it yummy!

Cheesy Bacon Tater Bites

Thick sliced bacon
Sharp Cheddar Cheese (cut into 1/4 pieces)
Tater Tots
Brown Sugar

So all you do is take a tater tot and piece of cheese and roll it up in the bacon.  Make sure you wrap it pretty good or it will fall apart. Then you roll them in brown sugar. Cook in oven on 400 for 20 minutes. Flip them half way through. Ohhhh man these are heaven!





















Okay so I also made this white cheese dip. I didn't take a picture of it because it just wasn't appealing.  It separated and was not gooie enough for me, but still very good!

2-8oz packages of cream cheese softened
Shredded Parmesan Cheese (1-2cups)
Shredded Moteray Jack Cheese (1-2cups)
1/2c mayo
1/2c diced onion

Just mix it all together and spread it in a dish and cook at 400 for 20-30 minutes or until browned slightly around the corners.  Again it was tasty, but just weird looking!

Okay so for today I was on a roll! I got up and was able to get my spare room unpacked finally and ready to move the treadmill! Yaaaaa!!! Then I decided to make pumpkin cheese cake cupcakes, fried cauliflower, and was even able to get two evaluations complete!!! Woot Woot! Feel accomplished today.  I will not be sharing my dinner recipe though because I am cheating! I bought a pre-made meatloaf that was marked down for Chris since he LOVES meatloaf (me not so much).

Parmesan Breaded Cauliflower

Cauliflower
1/2c seasoned bread crumbs, (I think panko would be lots better but didnt' have any)
1/2c Parmesan Cheese
1 egg
Flour
Oil

Pretty easy to do. Just dip your cauliflower in the flour, dredge it in the egg mix, then dip in the bread crumb/cheese mix.  Fry in oil.  It only takes like 2 minutes and walllla!!! This may be my new favorite thing, but I had frying stuff, so will only be doing this occasionally!!

Okay now the wonderful Pumpkin recipe!! I am going to try and do something with pumpkin every Monday!!! I have been wanting to do this cheesecake recipe so I had at it today!

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cupcakes

1c flour
1t pumpkin pie spice
1t baking powder
1/2 t cinnamon
1/2t baking soda
1/4t nutmeg
1/4t salt
1c pumpkin puree
1/2c sugar
1/3c brown sugar, packed
1/2c vegetable oil
2 large eggs

Mix the first seven ingredients in a bowl. Set aside.  In another bowl mix the remainder and beat on low until combined.

In another bowl make your cheese cake filling and set aside
4oz cream cheese, room temperature
1/3c sugar
1/2t pumpkin pie spice

Add your dry ingredients to the pumpkin mix and stir just until blended. Place a small amount of filling in the cupcake foil. Add some of the cream cheese mix, then top it with more filling. Repeat! It calls for a frosting, but I did not make one! They are good how they are.  Bake 350 15-18 minutes! Enjoy!!

Beef stew

What a perfect day for beef stew!!! I love my crockpot especially on Tuesdays when I dont get home until 8pm! There are sooo many beef stew recipes but I found one a long time ago that used bbq sauce and just kinda go with my own version now. Man it is delicious!  You can add whatever veggies you want!! Here is what I do.

Beef stew

Beef of ur choice
3c beef broth
Minced garlic
Carrots
Potatos
Celery
Mushrooms
1 can fire roasted tomatoes
Salt
Pepper
BBQ sauce (few tablespoons)
Water/cornstartch to add when done.

Put on low for 8-10 hours wahlaaa! Add the corn startch and water at the end. Make sure u mix the cornstarch with cold water then pour it in. We like ours with mash tators too on the bottom!! Yummy and also a nice cold glass of meeeak! (Milk)!!

Caesar Chicken Thighs

What a busy busy day today! Where did time go! Left the house at 9:45am, got home at 3pm, and now just sitting down to relax/work at 7:15pm! I was given a gift card for bed, bath, and beyond, that is what happened to my day!! You can spend FOREVER in that store! There are so many little and big things we still need for the house so it was greatly appreciated! Made a few others stops along my way to browse around, and finally got my eye exam.  By the time I got home and unpacked all my goodies time to cook dinner!! My mom makes a homemade Caesar dressing that I just love, and she made it over the weekend during our lovely visit. I did not make the home-made dressing today, but I will defiantly share the recipe at a later time when I actually make it.  We all know that I love chicken thighs! So why not do Caesar chicken thighs!! Really, if you have never made chicken thighs or are hesitant to make them, DO IT! They are soo cheap and delicious! I always buy bone-in, skin-in ones. Here is what I did:

Caesar Chicken Thighs

4 chicken thighs
1/4c flour
1/4t garlic powder
1/2t Italian Seasoning
home-made or store bought Caesar dressing
Parmesan Cheese

All you have to do is pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees and spray a baking dish. Mix your flour, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. In a separate bowl pour in your dressing. Dip in the flour mix, then coat with dressing. Dredge it in the dressing so everything is coated. Place in baking dish and top with lots of Parmesan cheese. Bake for 30-40 minutes. I did 40 because mine where some what large. This was veryyyyyy yummmy! Nice and creamy and cooked to perfection! I of course had my roasted Brussel sprouts, broccoli, and mushrooms on the side, with a little bit of rice (that's more for Chris). Enjoy!!

Pumpkin cupcakes

Okay so I plan to get back into my blog now that we have finally moved into the new house and my life is becoming more organized. I was not going to blog about this because I didnt take any pictures but when I found myself sneaking in the fridge for seconds I just had too! The picture does not include the necessary topping, cool whip!! I do that as I eat them!! I am including the link for the recipe because this medicine I just took for my sinus infection makes me sleepy!!  I followed the recipe exactly as is, except I made my own pumpkin pie spice (1t cinnamon,  1/2t both allspice and ginger, 1/4t nutmeg).  OMG these are so moist and perfection.  Especially if your not a huge fan of pie crust. These are easy and definitely a repeat recipe this fall. Enjoy and look for more to come!! Slowly getting back in action!!

Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes. Whipped Cream on top with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Oh. My. Goodness. - http://pinterest.com/pin/345932815101520860/?utm_source=android_share

Red cabbage quinoa wraps

Ive beem wanting to make this recipe for a while and finally found the time to do it!  It was a perfect little lunch for me. Very good may I add too!!

Red cabbage quinoa wraps

Cool your quinoa as directed on bag/box.
Bring a pot of water to boil and add red cabbage.  Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.  Take out and pull off cooked leafs. To have more leafs repeat this step until all leaves fall off easily.
Next saute minced shallots in olive oil.  Add to quinoa once it is done cooking. 
Sprinkle goat cheese on cabbage leaf. Add quinoa.  Sprinkle more goat cheese.  Drizzle with a mix of honey and balsamic vinegar.  **I didnt have balsamic vinegar and just did honey** wrap up and enjoy! !! Love it!!

Bacon breaded perch sammies

This is a simple recipe but wanted to share because it was sooo yummy, and if you have not had these crackers you must try!! All I did was dip the fish im egg/milk mix them dip in 1t oregano,  1t garlic salt, and crushed up BACON flavored ritz crackers!!! These crackers are great alone or with cheddar cheese, and now great for breading!!! I made a mix of oregano, mayo, and garlic powder for my sauce add lettuce and wrap it up!!! Yummmmm. I plan to do some experimenting with recipes this weekend since I will finally be home so stay tune!!!

Grilled watermelon and Bacon Brussel sprout salad

Over the holiday weekend appetizers and/or side dishes were the topic if discussion.  Its always so hard to decide what to make with your chicken, burgers, etc. Sooo the two we tried were sooooo yummy!! And if you love brussel sprouts like me yoy will love this!!!

Bacon Brussel Sprout Salad

Bacon cooked and crumbled
Brussel sprouts,  shredded with the cheese grater or food processor
Almonds chopped finely
Parmesan cheese
1/2 orange juiced
1/2 lemon juiced
1/4c olive oil

Use as much bacon,  sprouts, almonds, and cheese as desired. In bowl add juices. Whisk in olive oil til cloudy.  Set aside. When ready to serve toss all items together! ! Yummmmmmm-O

Grilled watermelon
***I stole this idea from The Wine Guy Bar and Bistro***
Cut rinds off watermelon.  Make thick chunks. Spread a thin layer of olive oil on both sides. In pot heat 1/4-1/2c balsamic vinegar until reduced by half set aside. Grill 2 minutes a side until grill marks are present. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and top with goat cheese,  and mint if desired. Yummmy

Wicked Tuna

Vacation has been great so far!! Cedar point, shopping til I drop, west side market, and Little italy!! It was my first time at the west side market and man we stocked up on some veggies!! Mom wanted to buy a tuna filet since all my dad watches is the show Wicked Tuna....well...it was 21.95 a pound!!! We had the guy slice it in half and man it was worth it! I found a recipe on pinterest and this is what you get!! Man Im in love with this recipe. ..wish the tuna was not expensive!!

Wicked Tuna

The sauce
Melt 1 stick of butter in kettle. Add 1/2t minced capers, 1/2t salt, 1/2t pepper, 1/2 lemon juiced.
The tuna
Sprinkle salt and pepper on a plate and press your tuna on all sides into it. Grill/sear tuna 1 minute a side.
Zucchini
Slice it in half and spread olive oil on both sides. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill.
Pour sauce over zucchini, place tuna on top and drizzle more sauce. Enjoy!!! VERY Good!!

Peanut Butter and Banana Recipes!!! And cute little Chicken Biscuit Alfredo Pizza!

I have been waiting to make these pancakes all week!! My bananas were perfect and ready to go! These were soooooooo good!! They were not too peanut buttery either they were just perfect!!! Here's what to do to enjoy!!

Peanut-Butter Cup Banana Pancakes

1-1/2c flour

1-1/4t baking powder

1t brown sugar

1/4t salt

1 ripe banana

1/4c peanut butter

1-1/2c milk

1/4t vanilla

1/2c chopped peanut butter cups

First smash your banana. Add the peanut butter and mix up. Add in baking powder, brown sugar, salt and vanilla.  Mix in the flour and milk. Fold in the peanut butter cup. 

So I never posted this recipe but man these are yummy.  I do not have a picture because everyone ate them too fast!! They are a great appetizer to make and soo easy.  I made a bunch of them and froze some as well for the next time I had friends over!! Big hit!! 

Sausage Balls

2cups Bisquick mix

1lb sausage

1 pkg cream cheese softened

1c or more of shredded cheddar cheese

Mix it all up and roll into balls. Freeze them if you would like. Bake 400 for 20 minutes. Keep your eye on the baking time you may want to turn the balls/roll them over half way through. They are bite sizes yummies!!

To stick with the banana theme today, I wanted to use the rest of my very ripe bananas so what better then banana bread with a kick!! How about Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread!! SURE!!! Here is the recipe, I did not realize this recipe is for two loafs, so now I have two loafs, and will be taking one to work on Tuesday for sure!!  Adjust accordingly for one loaf

Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread
3 cups flour divided
2t baking soad
1/2t salt
1t cinnamon
4 very ripe bananas
1/2c peanut butter
1c sour cream
2 eggs
1/4c oil
1c packed light brown sugar
1t vanilla
1/2c bite sized peanut butter cups

Preheat oven 350 and spray your bread pans.

In large bowl mixed 2-3/4c flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
In a large bowl beat together bananas, peanut butter, sour cream, eggs, oil, brown sugar, vanilla until well blended. Spoon the flour mix in slowly and beat on low just until blended.  Fold in the peanut butter cups.  Bake 50-55 minutes until tooth pick comes out clean!! ENJOY

Chicken Alfredo Biscuit Pizza
Okay now for dinner!! I am on a roll today!!! Anxious because we put another offer in on a house and trying not to be excited until we hear about it tomorrow! So dinner I just seasoned some chicken breast with garlic salt and Italian seasoning and grilled it.  I then sliced it up and took a tube of biscuits and smashed four together. Then I spread it out like a mini pizza and put Alfredo sauce, spinach, chicken, and cheese. Then bake away!! Hoooowwww cute :)

GOALLL! USA USA!