These Caprese Empanadas surprised me — they’re simple to make yet elegant enough for guests. A flaky empanada dough encases sweet tomatoes, melty mozzarella, and fresh basil. It’s a flavor combination that always delivers. If you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a tasty snack for a potluck, make these Caprese Empanadas — they’re guaranteed to … Read more

A sharlotka is a beloved Russian classic — simple, flexible, and packed with fruit and flavor. This almond and peach version is studded with juicy peaches and crunchy slivered almonds, making it an ideal last‑minute dessert when guests arrive. A sharlotka is a great Russian classic. Summer in Chicago slipped by in a blur this … Read more

The smoky scent of grilled meat is hard to beat. After many sessions at the Pit Boss, I perfected a reliable method for smoking London broil that delivers tender, flavorful results. Below you’ll find a clear, SEO-friendly guide to smoking London broil on a Pit Boss, including wood choices, tips, serving ideas, and how to … Read more

This gluten-free pumpkin loaf is made with real pumpkin purée and warm pumpkin spice. It has a tender, moist crumb that even non-gluten-free eaters enjoy. Best of all, the batter comes together quickly with simple ingredients, and you can have a fragrant pumpkin loaf ready in about an hour. Years ago I shared a pumpkin … Read more

Last week I posted a photo on Instagram of fifty-two ounces of sliced mushrooms and asked, “Does this make anyone else weak in the knees?” Aside from a couple of comments that said it made them weak in the stomach, most of you clearly share my mushroom obsession. If I see a bowl of perfectly … Read more

This Broccoli, Rice and Cheese recipe is a classic Southern side dish—rich, cheesy, and comforting. This stovetop, no-bake version saves oven space and time, and includes tips to make it a veggie favorite for picky eaters. Broccoli, Rice and Cheese is one of those family recipes I took to college and still make today. It’s … Read more

These soft, chewy Andes mint cookies have a dense, fudgy texture with a bright hint of peppermint. Whether for holidays or any time of year, they might become your new favorite cookie. Pin this Recipe for Later! Why I Love These Easy Andes Mint Cookies Chewy & fudgy: The dough is the same base as … Read more

Learn how to make corn in the microwave with this quick and easy method. Enjoy sweet, juicy corn in minutes with minimal cleanup. I love corn — we get the best, sweetest ears in my state, and we eat more than we probably should. The good news is microwave corn is so fast and simple … Read more

Irish Soda Bread with Raisins is a quick, no-yeast loaf made with just six everyday ingredients. This easy soda bread is ideal for beginner bakers and can be on your table in under an hour. This post was refreshed from the 2015 version to improve clarity and readability; the recipe itself has not been changed. … Read more

This single serve pancake recipe makes a small batch of three fluffy pancakes—perfect for one person. It’s an ideal way to enjoy a pancake breakfast or brunch without cooking a large batch. Why I Love It: Perfect single-serve portion — This recipe yields three pancakes, making it simple to enjoy a fresh breakfast without leftovers. … Read more