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Everyday Savvy

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Reindeer Hot Chocolate / Hot Chocolate Reindeer Cones

December 9, 2020 By Melissa 16 Comments
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I absolutely love these cute Reindeer Hot Chocolate cones or bags that make easy DIY Christmas gifts.

 

Reindeer Hot Chocolate bag - cute DIY gift hot chocolate in a bag with a red nose and google eyes

 

Looking for a cute easy DIY gift for the kids. Check out this DIY Gift of Reindeer Hot Chocolate! This gift requires just a few ingredients and supplies which makes these reindeer cocoa bags very easy to make. It is so simple to make that kids can easily make reindeer hot chocolate cones themselves for friends. Just add ingredients and a tag and you are good to go with a simple but oh so cute gift! Plus reindeer hot chocolate bags make a great treat to enjoy during the holiday season. You could pair them with these Rudolph Cookies for a sweet treat!

 

 

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Easy Peanut Butter Rudolph Cookies Recipe

December 8, 2020 By Melissa 3 Comments
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These adorable peanut butter Rudolph Cookies are adorable, festive and so easy to make. We love making cute Christmas cookies but who wants to spend hours making them!?! Not us, we love easy Christmas cookie recipes that are super cute and fun. Our Grinch Cookie Pops are another easy Christmas treat recipe.

Peanut butter cookie that look like Rudolph the red nosed reindeer on a white plate      

These Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies make a fun treat for kids (and adults) plus they are so easy to make that the kids can help. This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and you may have most of them on hand already! See the full printable recipe below.

I love that these are peanut butter easy reindeer cookies. Many Christmas cookies are sugar cookies so these have a whole different taste profile. These Rudolph cookies with pretzels have a yummy crunch!

Peanut Butter Rudolph Cookies Recipe Ingredients

1/2 cup Peanut Butter
1/2 cup Butter
1/2 cup Sugar
1/2 cup Brown Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla
1 Egg
1 1/3 cup Flour
1 tsp Baking Soda
1/2 tsp Salt
48 Red M&M’s
96 mini Chocolate Chips
Mini Twist Pretzels

rudolph cookie ingredients  on counter

How to Make Rudolph Cookies

Cream together peanut butter, butter, sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla and beat until smooth. Whisk together flour, baking soda and salt in a separate bowl.

peanut butter cookie ball with indentation in the center of cookie  and sprinkles of sugar


Slowly add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, beating until incorporated. Roll into 1/2-3/4″ balls and place on cookie sheet several inches apart. Sprinkle with sugar and gently make an indentation slightly off the center of each cookie. Bake 12-14 minutes.

After you bake the Christmas Reindeer cookies, it is time to decorate! This is my favorite part.

  • Place an M&M in the indentation of each cookie.
  • Insert 2 mini chocolate chips (pointy side down) above the M&M to be the eyes.
  • Insert 2 pretzel pieces to be the antlers.
  • If the antlers won’t stick, place some chocolate chips in a sandwich bag and microwave 30 seconds and knead until soft. Clip the very tip of the corner and pipe onto cookie to act as glue.

Peanut Butter Rudolph Cookies Recipe

Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Easy Peanut Butter Rudolph Cookies Recipe

Author: Melissa

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Peanut Butter
  • 1/2 cup Butter
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla
  • 1 Egg
  • 1 1/3 cup Flour
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 48 Red M&M’s
  • 96 mini Chocolate Chips
  • Mini Twist Pretzels

Instructions

  • Break pretzels into pieces to use as antlers.
  • Preheat oven to 350.
  • Cream together peanut butter, butter, sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
  • Add egg and vanilla and beat until smooth.
  • Whisk together flour, baking soda and salt in a separate bowl.
  • Slowly add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, beating until incorporated.
  • Roll into 1/2-3/4″ balls and place on cookie sheet several inches apart.
  • Sprinkle with sugar and gently make an indentation slightly off the center of each cookie.
  • Bake 12-14 minutes.
  • Place an M&M in the indentation of each cookie.
  • Insert 2 mini chocolate chips (pointy side down) above the M&M to be the eyes.
  • Insert 2 pretzel pieces to be the antlers.
  • If the antlers won’t stick, place some chocolate chips in a sandwich bag and microwave 30 seconds and knead until soft. Clip the very tip of the corner and pipe onto cookie to act as glue.
 

Want more easy and tasty recipes for Christmas?

Grinch Kebobs

Reindeer Hot Chocolate – Easy DIY Gift 

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Peppermint Mocha

Need Gift ideas? So so many unique gift ideas for everyone on your list. 

Rice Krispie Treats Turkey – Thanksgiving Rice Krispie Treats

November 13, 2020 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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A Rice Krispie Treats Turkey makes a great Thanksgiving treat for kids and adults. 
Turkey Rice Krispie Pops
If you are looking for cute Thanksgiving desserts, you have come to the right place. These decorated Rice Krispie treats or Rice Krispie treats on a stick are made to look like fun Thanksgiving turkeys. We used pre-made Rice Krispie treats that you buy at the grocery store or Amazon but you could easily make your own rice Krispie treats and cut them into small rectangles.
 
Using the pre-made Rice Krispie treats makes this cute recipe so easy. This Thanksgiving recipe would be easy for kids of all ages to make and decorate. The kids will love decorating and making their very own Thanksgiving turkey. I think it is fun to give them varying candy eyes but if you want more traditional-looking turkeys you could use the same size candy eyes. 
Rice Krispie Pops are an easy Thanksgiving treats to make. Be sure to see the full printable directions below that detail how to decorate rice Krispie treats and dipping rice Krispie treats in candy melts. I have included some photos to show the full process.
 
Ingredients to make Rice Krispie Treats Turkeys

Turkey Rice Krispie Pops Ingredients: 

8 ct package of Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Treats
10 oz package of Wilton chocolate candy melts
8 large candy eyes
8 small candy eyes
11 oz package of Brach’s Autumn Mix OR candy corn
8 popsicle sticks

Rice Krispie Treats Turkey Directions: 

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
 
Open the 8 Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Treats and discard the wrappers.
 
Insert a popsicle stick into the base of each Rice Krispie Treat.
 
Place the treats on the plate and set in the fridge for 15 minutes.
 
Pour the Wilton chocolate candy melts into a microwave-safe dish. Heat in the microwave in 30-second increments stirring occasionally until melted.
 
dipping rice Krispie treats in candy melts
Remove the melted chocolate from the microwave and dip each Rice Krispie treat. Use a coat to carefully coat each treat and allow the access chocolate to drip back into the bowl.
 
Put Eyes on Rice Krispie Treats Turkey
Place the chocolate covered treat on the lined baking sheet and give the turkey 1 large candy eye and 1 small candy eye, a candy corn nose and 6 candy corn feathers.
 
how to decorate rice Krispie treats
 
Repeat with all 8 Rice Krispie Treats.
 
I hope you enjoy these easy dipped Rice Krispie treats on a stick. This recipe makes 8 Rice Krispie Turkeys/ 
 

Looking for more easy Rice Krispie Treat Ideas? Check out these Rice Krispie Treat recipes.

Candy Corn Rice Krispie Treats

Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
 
Thanksgiving Rice Krispie Treats Turkey

Print Recipe

Rice Krispies Treat Turkey

Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 8 ct package of Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Treats
  • 10 oz package of Wilton chocolate candy melts
  • 8 large candy eyes
  • 8 small candy eyes
  • 11 oz package of Brach’s Autumn Mix OR candy corn
  • 8 popsicle sticks

Instructions

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Open the 8 Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Treats and discard the wrappers.
  • Insert a popsicle stick into the base of each Rice Krispie Treat.
  • Place the treats on the plate and set in the fridge for 15 minutes.
  • Pour the Wilton chocolate candy melts into a microwave safe dish. Heat in the microwave in 30 second increments stirring occasionally until melted.
  • Remove the melted chocolate from the microwave and dip each Rice Krispie treat. Use a coat to carefully coat each treat and allow the access chocolate to drip back into the bowl.
  • Place the chocolate covered treat on the lined baking sheet and give the turkey 1 large candy eye and 1 small candy eye, a candy corn nose and 6 candy corn feathers.
  • Repeat with all 8 Rice Krispie Treats.

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Halloween Rice Krispie Treats Recipe with Candy Corn

October 16, 2020 By Melissa 5 Comments
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Yummy Candy Corn Halloween Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. Perfect fall recipe with candy corn, royal icing, and rice crispies. Great treat for a Halloween party.

Yummy Candy Corn Rice Crispy Treats Recipe. Perfect fall recipe with candy corn, royal icing and rice crispies. These are a great treat for a Halloween or harvest party too.

There is something about candy corn that makes any recipe better in the fall. This is very true with this Candy Corn Rice Crispy Treats Recipe. Candy Corn & Rice Krispies…. how can you go wrong?!? These are a great treat for a Halloween or harvest party too.

We promise that these will be so well loved you might just want to make a double batch. These are so simple to make but look so festive with orange and yellow of the candy corn and the icing. See below for the full recipe and we even have an easy print option.

Yummy Candy Corn Rice Crispy Treats Recipe. Perfect fall recipe with candy corn, royal icing and rice crispies. These are a great treat for a Halloween or harvest party too.

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Be sure to check out our Fall Trail Mix Recipe with Candy Corn too!

More Halloween Recipes

Skeleton Cookie Recipe

Monster Pasta Recipe – Great kid friendly Halloween meal!

Halloween Apple Cider Punch Recipe 

Halloween Smoothie Recipe

Pumpkin No Bake Cookies

Want more easy and tasty recipes?

easy and tasty recipes

Halloween Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Candy Corn Rice Crispy Treats Recipe

Author: Melissa

Ingredients

Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients:

  • 3 TBSP of unsalted butter
  • 1 package of marshmallows
  • 6 C rice krispie cereal
  • 1 bag of Candy Corn

Royal Icing Ingredients:

  • 2 egg whites
  • 1 C powder sugar
  • 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
  • Orange & yellow gel food coloring

Instructions

Rice Krispie Treats Directions:

  • In a stock pot melt the butter over low heat.
  • Add marshmallow stirring until completely melted.
  • Remove from heat.
  • Add the rice krispies cereal.
  • Stir until well coated.
  • Prepare a baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Spoon the rice krispies into the baking dish.
  • Using wax paper press them down into the baking dish.
  • Allow to slightly cool.
  • Add candy corn to the top of the rice krispies treats.

Royal Icing Directions:

  • Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl mixing on medium speed for 4 minutes. (except your food coloring)
  • If icing is not stiff enough add 1/4 C powder sugar.
  • Divide the icing into 3 bowls.
  • First bowl add several drops of orange gel food coloring in a bowl of icing. Stir well to mix the color.
  • Second bowl add several drops of yellow gel food coloring in a bowl of icing. Stir well to mix the color.
  • Third bowl of icing remains white.
  • Scoop the icings into three frosting bags with #5 tips. Twist the open end of the

Last details for the rice krispie treats:

  • Using the frosting bags filled with icing drizzle the rice krispie treats with each of the colored icings.
  • Allow time to dry before covering.

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No Bake Pumpkin Cookies Recipe – Easy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

September 11, 2020 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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This no bake pumpkin cookies recipe makes easy pumpkin oatmeal cookies for a fall favorite treat.  

no bake pumpkin oatmeal cookies

Nothing says fall like pumpkin spice and these easy pumpkin spice oatmeal cookies sure hit the spot. You get all the flavors of fall in these little pumpkin oatmeal cookies and you don’t even need to run to Starbucks for a Pumpkin Spice Latte. LOL    Or you can use this pumpkin spice latte recipe to make one yourself at home to drink with these oatmeal pumpkin cookies. I am always on the lookout for easy no bake pumpkin dessert recipes like this one.

This simple recipe is easy to fit into your busy life and who doesn’t love a yummy homemade pumpkin treat!

These cookies require just a few simple ingredients and some mixing. These are so easy to make that the kids can easily help. The recipe makes approximately 1  1/2 dozen pumpkin oatmeal cookies.

Be sure to scroll down for the printable recipe for these easy pumpkin cookies. Nothing says fall like pumpkin oatmeal cookies. YUM!

No Bake Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
  • 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups quick oats
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Pinch of salt  

Directions to Make Pumpkin No Bake Cookies

1. Line a cookie sheet with wax or parchment paper and set aside.

2. In a medium saucepan, add the pumpkin purée, butter, peanut butter, milk and sugars.  

add vanilla to pumpkin mixture

3. Bring to a boil under medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Add the quick oats, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt to a large mixing bowl. Whisk to combine.  

Quick oats, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt in a large mixing bowl.

5. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the oats and mix well.  

mix oatmeal and pumpkin puree

6. Shape into 2 inch cookies and place on the lined cookie sheet.  

cookies made into pumpkin oatmeal balls

7. Allow to cool completely and ENJOY!!  

You can now cozy up and enjoy these yummy

easy pumpkin spice no bake cookies

Looking for fall treats? Check out the easy pumpkin dessert recipes with few ingredients and more.

Pumpkin Parfait Recipe

Pumpkin Overnight Oats

Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Cinnamon Apple Chips Recipe

Candy Corn Rice Krispie Treats

Harvest Trail Mix Recipe

Print Recipe

No Bake Pumpkin Cookies

These easy no-bake pumpkin cookies made with oatmeal and pumpkin are a perfect fall treat. Makes approximately 1.5 dozen cookies. 

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
  • 1/2 cup 1 stick butter
  • 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups quick oats
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Line a cookie sheet with wax or parchment paper and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, add the pumpkin purée, butter, peanut butter, milk and sugars.
  • Bring to a boil under medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Add the quick oats, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon and salt to a large mixing bowl. Whisk to combine.
  • Pour the pumpkin mixture into the oats and mix well.
  • Shape into 2 inch cookies and place on the lined cookie sheet. 
  • Allow to cool completely and ENJOY!!

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no bake pumpkin cookies with oatmeal and pumpkin spice
pumpkin spice latte in mug surrounded by fall decor

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

September 1, 2020 By Thena Franssen Leave a Comment
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It just wouldn’t be fall if you didn’t have a bit of pumpkin spice in your life. The great thing about this Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte is that it’s so simple to whip up at home. It’s literally just 7 easy ingredients that will create a warm and toasty drink.

easy homemade pumpkin spice latte in glass mug

This latte is perfect for the morning time, but who am I kidding…I’m going to enjoy this recipe morning, afternoon and night because fall only comes around once a year and the time of “pumpkin spice” is now!

If you’re craving a warm and flavorful drink that goes perfectly with the autumn colors and changing of the leaves, this is the one for you! And don’t forget that it makes up two delicious lattes so it’s the perfect recipe to share with a friend.

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte/ Pumpkin Spice Coffee

All you need are these simple ingredients to get started. (trust me, you’ll be sipping away in no time at all!)

Ingredients to make this pumpkin spice latte

  • 2 cups of milk
  • 2 tbsp canned pumpkin puree
  • 1-3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp allspice
  • 1/2 cup dark roast coffee
  • 1/2 cup whole milk 

How to make this homemade pumpkin latte

Add milk, pumpkin, and sugar to a small pot and cook on medium heat until hot, do not boil.

Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract, allspice, and coffee.

Pour into two coffee mugs

Using a mason jar pour in a  1/2 cup of whole milk. Close with the lid and shake vigorously. remove the lid and place in the microwave for 1 min 

Spoon the foam from the mason jar and place on top of the coffee add warm milk also if you like. 

The last step is to think about how much money you saved not going to Starbucks while you Enjoy your pumpkin spice latter at home. I hope you enjoy it!

pumpkin spice latte in mug surrounded by fall decor

pumpkin spice latte in mug surrounded by fall decor
Print Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Latte

You're going to love the taste and flavor of this pumpkin spice latte! 

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of milk
  • 2 tbsp canned pumpkin puree
  • 1-3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp allspice
  • 1/2 cup dark roast coffee
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

Instructions

  • Add milk, pumpkin, and sugar to a small pot and cook on medium heat until hot, do not boil.
  • Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract, allspice, and coffee.
  • Pour into two coffee mugs.
  • Using a mason jar pour in a 1/2 cup of whole milk. Close with the lid and shake vigorously. remove the lid and place it in the microwave for 1 minute. 
  • Spoon the foam from the mason jar and place on top of the coffee add warm milk also if you like. 

mug of pumpkin spice latte

Don’t forget to sign up for our emails below so you are notified of our next simple and tasty recipe (plus lots of other fun stuff!).

Looking for more delicious pumpkin and fall recipes?

  • Pumpkin Parfait Recipe
  • Overnight Caramel Pumpkin Oats
  • Pumpkin Roll
  • No-Bake Pumpkin Cookies
  • Easy Crockpot Applesauce

Easy 4th Of July Dessert – Red White & Blue Dessert Recipe

June 20, 2020 By Melissa 9 Comments
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Here is the wonderful and easy 4th of July dessert recipe.

Here is an easy 4th of July Dessert. This red white and blue dessert fits any patriotic theme -Yummy red, white and blue mini berry tarts

 

The fresh berries are perfect for any red, white and blue theme including Memorial Day and Fourth of July. These are so tasty though that they would be great for any get-together or party. This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients but still looks quite fancy. You can whip this up in no time at all and be out having fun in the sun with your friends. This would be easy to bring to a potluck as well. Be sure to scroll down for the full printable recipe. [Read more…]

Healthy Freezer Meals / Healthy Make Ahead Freezer Meals

April 21, 2020 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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Check out these easy and tasty healthy freezer meals. 

healthy freezer meals recipes

Click to Pin for Later

 

20 Healthy Freezer Meals

No need to stress over meals when you have a freezer full of ready-to-go ideas just waiting to be made. This collection of 20 healthy freezer meals will get you well on your way to stocking your freezer for those busy days when the last thing you have time for is actual cooking. With a little planning and meal prep, you can prepare these freezer-friendly meals with minimal effort. Whether it’s simple ingredient prep or make-ahead and freeze, you’ll find inspiration for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with these delicious recipes. You’ll find meals for your pressure cooker, slow cooker, oven, stovetop, and even your toaster! From meat to vegetarian, from stews to stir-fry and from dump and cook to bake from frozen, this list will show you a variety of ways to enjoy freezing and making healthy and delicious time-saving meals.

Here’s a freezer-friendly breakfast idea that’s just as tasty for lunch or dinner. Assemble a protein-rich vegetarian quesadilla full of scrambled eggs, spinach, cheddar cheese, and white beans. They’re kid-friendly, too, and they’ll last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Freezer Sausage Egg Muffins by Well Plated

Getting breakfast on the table quickly can be a challenge. This recipe for make-ahead sausage egg cheese muffins will make your mornings so easy. You just prepare the sausage egg cheese muffins ahead of time and freeze them. When you are ready to eat them, all you have to do is pop them in the microwave. It is so easy even your kids can prepare them!
Freezer Sausage Egg Muffins by Everyday Savvy

Burgers are always an easy meal ingredient to grab from the freezer. Make one or all of these 3 veggie burger ideas that use chickpeas, lentils, and beans. Opt for spicy black bean burgers, lentil walnut burgers, or sweet potato chickpea burgers. Make, bake, cool, and freeze!
Freezer Friendly Veggie Burgers 3 Ways by Wholefully

These lean beef meatloaves take a healthy turn with the addition of veggies in the mixture. Finely-grated carrots give them a bit of natural sweetness while also keeping the mixture moist. You can freeze these mini loaves for up to 6 months, unbaked. Perfect for portion control, too!
Freezer Friendly Mini Meatloaves by Sweet Cayenne

For breakfast, lunch or dinner, these healthy freezer-friendly burritos are full of a medley of garden veggies, black beans, and quinoa. Keep it even healthier by using gluten-free wraps. These are so easy to make that you can stock your freezer with these for several months’ worth of a grab, heat, and eat burrito meal. Win-win!
Black Bean And Quinoa Freezer Burritos by Hey Nutrition Lady

Prep all your beef stew ingredients ahead of time, seal in a bag and freeze. Use grass-fed chuck roast for a healthier option as well as organic veggies. Take it a step further by adding pearled barley to the bag. Season well, seal and freeze until ready to dump in your crockpot. Just add broth and set it on low.
Freezer Crockpot Beef Stew by Live Simply

This pasta meal is full of healthy kale, mushrooms, and chicken. Works best with rigatoni, penne, or bowtie pasta, which you should cook to just slightly underdone. Assemble this one ahead but don’t bake it. Wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. So good!
Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake With Kale And Mushrooms by A Grateful Meal

Keep this easy stir-fry freezer meal handy. Raw shrimp, shredded carrots, snow peas, broccoli florets, and diced red pepper get marinated in soy sauce and seasonings in a zip lock bag and stashed in the freezer for later use. Stir fry from frozen. Zesty!
Shrimp Stir Fry Freezer Meal by The Schmidty Wife

This breakfast omelet is full of onions, green peppers, mushrooms, and ham. Add in a little cheese and you’ve got a tasty meal ready to be baked and then frozen for later. Tip: If freezing, you might want to bake these in individual muffin cups for an easy pack and freeze option.
Baked Denver Omelet Recipe by My Food Story

Save time with this family favorite recipe and make a double batch: one to eat now and one to freeze for later. Another time-saver is that there’s no need to thaw this casserole when ready to bake! Ground meat (beef or turkey), veggies, taco seasonings, and organic non-GMO tortillas keep it healthier so you can feed your family with confidence.
Healthier Taco Casserole by Sweet Peas And Saffron

You’ll love this spicy garlic and lime chicken marinade that’s happy to hang out in your freezer until you’re ready to dump it in your crockpot for a hearty and flavorful meal. Serve with a side of rice and enjoy this hot dish!
Spicy Garlic Lime Freezer Crockpot Chicken by I Hate Meal Prep

English muffins, eggs, bacon and sausage get a session in the oven with this easy to assemble breakfast sandwich. If you don’t like sausage, just swap it out for ham or leave out altogether. So easy and convenient! Assemble, add cheese and wrap for the freezer. Freezes well for up to a month.
Make Ahead Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches by The Cozy Cook

Either make this chili and freeze it or prep a few ingredients, bag them and freeze them for a quick pressure cooker chili meal later. Whether you use beef or ground turkey, this hearty meal is a favorite that you can add various toppings to so that everyone in the family enjoys it.
Instant Pot Chili by Recipes From A Pantry

What a time saver this is! Cook frozen salmon filets, along with frozen green beans and frozen rice (optional) on a sheet pan and bake – no need to thaw! Season your salmon while frozen with zesty lemon and pepper. Give it a try!
Freezer To Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon by Diana K Rice

Make your own version of hot pockets with these handheld chicken pot pies. They’re simple to make. You’ll wrap the lightly sauced homemade chicken and veggies mixture in a healthier “crust” using flatbread. Perfect for the freezer, these portable pockets are kid-friendly, too.
Easy Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies by Two Healthy Kitchens

This easy Lemon Dump Chicken recipe is simple to prep and freeze. Once you are ready to cook, all you do it dump the whole freezer bag into the slow cooker. Seriously you can’t have dinner made easier than that! The lemon chicken recipe also includes vegetables so you can just add some rolls or rice and you have a complete meal.
Lemon Dump Chicken by Everyday Savvy

You can totally freeze pancakes for a quick breakfast or a cozy dinner! Made with whole wheat flour for extra nutrition, this recipe freezes well and reheating is a breeze. Make a double batch the next time you have pancakes and freeze the rest!
Pancake Recipe That Freezes Well by Happy Money Saver

Broccoli, cheddar cheese, Alfredo sauce, and chicken make a tasty stuffing for this pasta meal. When making this dish specifically as a freezer meal, stuff the chicken mixture into the lightly cooked pasta shells but do not bake it. Wrap and freeze for later.  Easy cheesy goodness!
Chicken Alfedo Stuffed Shells by Mommy’s Fabulous Finds

Let your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting and tenderizing of this comfort food meal. You can use a less expensive cut of steak and still come out with awesome results. With just few other ingredients this is a truly simple meal to make. Make a big batch and easily freeze the leftovers.
Slow Cooker Swiss Steak by Food Meanderings

The beauty of this lasagna recipe is that it’s meatless and that you can bake it, eat it and freeze the leftovers for later, or just assemble it and freeze it unbaked. Perfect! It’s full of kale, everyone’s superfood, and substitutes cottage cheese for the traditional ricotta. Awesome!
Kale Lasagna With Cottage Cheese by Hey Nutrition Lady

Grab a large zip lock bag or two or three and get ready to fill them with simple pork stir-fry ingredients. Prep your raw ingredients by cutting pork into bite-sized chunks, cut your veggies, mix the garlicky soy sauce and package it all up for the freezer! Serve with rice or noodles. Tasty!
Garlic Pork Stir Fry Freezer Meal by Fabulessly Frugal

Forget making dough or even buying the cardboard pre-made stuff! Instead, use Greek pita flatbreads. You can top these little rounds with all your favorite healthy toppings, stack up the pizzas with wax paper between them, store them in a tight-fitting freezer-friendly container and stash them away until you’re ready to bake one. No thawing needed!
Homemade Frozen Pizzas by Recipe Tin Eats

More Meal Planning Resources

101 Meal Planning Tips

How to Create a Meal Planning Pantry

Meal Planning with an Instant Pot

How to Use a Crock Pot for Meal Planning

Meal Planning Tips with Picky Eaters 

Meal Planning – Once a Month Meals

Must-Have Meal Planning Tools 

Restricted Diets & Food Allergies Meal Planning Tips

Wondering How to Make a Meal Plan?

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healthy make ahead freezer meals

Simple and Easy Crockpot Lasagna

March 26, 2020 By Melissa 2 Comments
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Take the stress out of making lasagna with this simple Crockpot Lasagna recipe. Letting your crockpot do all the work is just part of the fun. The taste and flavor of this recipe will totally seal the deal!

When’s the last time that you cooked an entire meal in your crockpot? If you’re stopping to think, it’s been too long! This slow cooker lasagna recipe will have you never making lasagna any other way ever again.

This is one of those recipes that you can “set and forget” and have it ready and waiting for you when you return home from a long hard day of work. I also like to create this recipe and have it for leftovers throughout the week. What?! Leftovers is meal-planning, right?

Get ready to fall in love with the ease of this homemade lasagna recipe. It’s just that good!

Simple and Easy Crockpot Lasagna

The great part of this recipe for crockpot lasagna is that you don’t need a ton of ingredients to get started.

Ingredients needed for easy crockpot lasagna

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 onion
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 large can of tomato sauce
  • 1 can of fire-roasted, diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 package (12 oz) lasagna noodles
  • 12 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 (8 oz) packages of mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 3/4 C parmesan cheese, grated

How to make crockpot lasagna

Prep crockpot with baking spray.

Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet adding the onion until it turns translucent. Add crushed garlic to the skillet. Add the ground beef until brown.

Combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and spices in a sauce pan, cooking all ingredients until warm.

Begin to layer the lasagna in the crock pot. Bottom layer of the lasagna a large spoonful meat sauce. The second layer will be uncooked lasagna noodles (break to fit).

Add a layer of cooked hamburger meat. Then top with cheeses. Repeat with sauce, noodles meat and cheeses until all are used up. Top with an extra layer of  shredded mozzarella cheese.

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Allow to set briefly prior to serving.

Print Recipe

Crockpot Lasagna

You're going to love the ease and taste of this crockpot lasagna.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 onion
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 large can of tomato sauce
  • 1 can of fire-roasted, diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 package (12 oz) lasagna noodles
  • 12 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 (8 oz) packages of mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 3/4 C parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  • Prep crockpot with baking spray. 
  • Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet adding the onion until it turns translucent. Add crushed garlic to the skillet. Add the ground beef until brown.
  • Combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and spices in a sauce pan, cooking all ingredients until warm.
  • Begin to layer the lasagna in the crock pot. Bottom layer of the lasagna a large spoonful meat sauce. The second layer will be uncooked lasagna noodles (break to fit).
  • Add a layer of cooked hamburger meat. Then top with cheeses. Repeat with sauce, noodles meat and cheeses until all are used up. Top with an extra layer of  shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Allow to set briefly prior to serving.

Looking for more great crockpot or slow cooker recipes? Check these out!

  • Easy Crockpot Applesauce
  • Easy Crock Pot Chicken Tostadas Recipe
  • Easy Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs
  • Lemon Dump Chicken Recipe
  • Slow Cooker Chicken Soft Tacos
  • Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
  • Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes 

Cute & Fun Easter Cupcakes – Lots of Easy Ideas

March 23, 2020 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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Any of these awesome 21 Easter cupcakes will help you kick off springtime and celebrate the season!

Cute & easy Easter cupcakes

20 Easter Cupcakes

Any of these awesome 20 Easter cupcakes will help you kick off springtime and celebrate the season! These sweet confections are a delight to eat as well as look at. The decorations feature everything from bunnies to chicks and carrots to eggs. Turn these cupcakes into works of edible art by adding beautiful pastel shades of pink, blue, green, yellow and lavender. Many of these recipes are easy enough that even the kids can help with the assembly and decoration. From peeps to coconut grass and from mini chocolate malted eggs to crushed cookie edible dirt patches, you’ll find creative recipes to inspire your next batch of adorable Easter cupcakes.

Looking for cute and easy Easter Cupcakes? Try these super cute Carrot Garden Easter Cupcakes. The orange Mike & Ikes with edible Easter grass decorate the cupcake and look like a garden the Easter bunny would love! Kids and adults alike will enjoy eating these cute and tasty Easter cupcake decorations. Plus they are not too hard to make. Cute and easy…the perfect combination. Carrot Garden Cupcakes by Everyday Savvy

These Easter cupcakes are a feast for your eyes: chocolate cupcakes with chocolate malted frosting that’s piped on high. Add some colorful malted Whopper eggs on the top and garnish with a smidge of the pastel crushed mini eggs. Adorable!
Chocolate Whopper Egg Cupcakes by Your Cup Of Cake

Who doesn’t love jelly beans? These cupcakes are an amazing Easter dessert because not only do you decorate the frosting with sweet jelly beans, you’ll also hide some inside a hollowed out section of each cupcake!
Jelly Bean Cupcakes by If You Give A Blonde A Kitchen

These chocolate cupcakes get a garden “dirt” topping from crushed chocolate cookies. Create carrots for the patch by using a strawberry that’s been dipped in orange candy melts. Hollow out a little piece of the cupcake in the center so that the “carrot” can sit in the garden patch. Sweet!
Carrot Patch Cupcakes by Life Made Simple Bakes

Here’s an easy way to up-level coconut cupcakes for Easter. Make your coconut cupcakes, frost with butter frosting and then lightly toast your coconut flakes before adding to the top of the frosting. Gently place three Whoppers malted milk ball eggs in the center of the frosting. Beautiful!
Coconut Cupcakes With Toasted Coconut Frosting by Brown Eyed Baker

Not only are these cupcakes gorgeous, but they’re fun to make.You’ll divide your cupcake batter up into 4 equal parts and drop different shades of food coloring in each. Pour a bit of each into each cupcake liner which will create a marble effect when baked. Divide your frosting up, too, to create pastel colors and ice each a different color. So pretty!
Celebration Marble Cupcakes by Two Sisters Crafting

White cupcakes with buttercream frosting get topped with sweet Easter chick marshmallow peeps. Before setting the peeps on top, add edible Easter grass to the top for the nests. Set the chicks in the center and add a few mini chocolate robin’s eggs. Cute!
Easter Peeps Cupcakes by Freut Cake

These made from scratch lemon cupcakes use real lemon juice and zest for a punch of flavor. They are filled with lemon curd and frosted with a lemony icing. They’re the perfect spring dessert to serve at Easter.
Perfect Triple Lemon Cupcakes by Crazy For Crust

The color combo of chocolate cupcakes with a pastel coconut “grass” frosting is a sweet way to celebrate Easter. Add a small chocolate bunny in the center of the grass or even a few mini malted eggs. Perfect for spring and Easter parties.
Easter Cupcakes by Mother Thyme

Decorate chocolate cupcakes with mini marshmallows for the body of a sheep. You’ll make the sheep heads from a few of the cupcakes plus frosting that you’ve rolled into ovals and allowed to chill in the fridge. Add eyes and attach to the cupcakes to complete the sheep. So sweet!
Sheep Cupcakes by Wine And Glue

Easter is the perfect time to make desert with spring fruit such as blueberries. Here, a coconut cupcake gets the addition of a few blueberries in the batter. Add a blueberry to the top of the buttery coconut frosting for the finishing touch. Delish!
Blueberry Coconut Cupcakes by Life Love And Sugar

Chocolate cupcakes get frosted and then topped with crushed mini sandwich cookies for the “dirt.” Use orange Mike and Ikes candies for the carrots and edible green Easter grass for the carrot stems. Crazy cute and the kids will love them!
Carrot In The Garden Easter Cupcakes by Cincy Shopper

If you’re looking for a quick Easter cupcake, this is it! Make your cupcakes and instead of frosting them, use cotton candy as a “nest” and nestle mini chocolate eggs in it. So creative!
Cotton Candy Easter Cupcakes by The Sweetest Occasion

Chocolate cupcakes and frosting get decorated with a chocolate Easter bunny with the help of Reese’s cups. Use a round peanut butter cup as the bunny torso and add candy eyes, tootsie rolls for ears, a candy carrot and two chocolate Whoppers for his paws. Clever!
Reese’s Cup Easter Bunny Cupcakes by Hungry Happenings

Marshmallow eggs get decorated with melted candy before being dipped in colorful sugar or sprinkles to make a sparkly egg. Let them chill in the fridge while you make the cupcakes and frosting. When ready, set the eggs vertically on top for a pretty Easter egg cupcake!
Marshmallow Easter Egg Cupcakes by Young At Heart Mommy

These luscious chocolate cupcakes with chocolate buttercream frosting look amazing with a Cadbury creme egg perched on top of green “grass” sprinkles, but wait until you bite into it. There’s a hidden mini creme egg inside. Surprise!
Cadbury Creme Egg Cupcakes by Flour On My Face

If you’re going to enjoy Peeps this season, make them in the form of a cupcake! Perfect for Easter parties, these vibrant colored bunny peeps sit on top of buttercream frosting that you’ll add gel food coloring to to match the peeps. Kid and party-approved!
Peeps Cupcakes by Eating On A Dime

These cupcakes are the perfect Easter treat with their marshmallow frosting that you’ll dust with pastel coconut flakes. Top chocolate or vanilla cupcakes with these and watch the kids gobble them up!
Snowball Cupcakes by Baking A Moment

Yellow chicks perch on top of vanilla cupcakes thanks to vanilla buttercream frosting that’s been dyed with gel food coloring. It’s easy to pipe on these chicks. Just add googly eyes, a little beak and feet. Precious!
Easter Chick Cupcakes by Amanda’s Cookin

These chocolate cupcakes and frosting get topped with a dusting of chocolate cookie crumbs for the “dirt.” Create the bunny by using donut holes dipped in melted white chocolate and coated with coconut. Add the feet and toes for the sweet little Easter bunny cupcake treat.
Bunny Butt Cupcakes by Spend With Pennies

These rich chocolate cupcakes and frosting get dusted with brown jimmies for the “nest” before adding mini pastel chocolate eggs in the center. Cute and irresistible!
Robin’s Nest Cupcakes by Tastes of Lizzy T

 

Need more fun Easter ideas? Check out these Easter basket ideas, and Easter Egg hunt fun.

Jelly Bean Bark Recipe 

Glow in the Dark Easter Egg Hunt Directions

Easter Basket Ideas for Girls

Easter Basket Ideas for Boys

Easter Basket Ideas for Tween Girls

Easter Basket Ideas for Tween Boys

Easter Basket Ideas for Teenage Girls

Easter Basket Ideas for Teenage Boys

Easter Basket Ideas – Outdoor Toys

DIY Easter Egg Bath Bombs

 

 

Easter cupcakes recipes perfect to make for Easter celebrations

Sausage Asparagus Skillet Recipe with Quinoa

March 17, 2020 By Melissa
This post may contain affiliate links that help support this site at no additional cost to you. Please read my disclosure page for more info.

This Sausage Asparagus Skillet Recipe with Quinoa is so quick and easy to prepare and an easy family favorite meal.

Sausage, Asparagus & Quinoa skillet meal

Looking for a healthy and easy meal? Check out this Sausage, Asparagus & Quinoa Meal Recipe. This meal is so simple to make but flavorful and sure to become a family favorite. We all love quinoa in my family and this is a great way to prepare it. My youngest requests it often.

Here are a few in process pictures but be sure to check out the full printable recipe below.

Sausage Asparagus Skillet Recipe with Quinoa Recipe Directions

  • In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil.
  • Add in the 1 cup of uncooked quinoa. Lower the heat and allow the quinoa to simmer, stirring occasionally, until cooked, about 10-15 minutes.
  • In a separate pan, saute the fresh asparagus and smoked sausage on medium heat until the asparagus is tender, about 10-15 minutes. I’ve found I didn’t need to add any oil with the sausage.

 

saute the sausage and asparagus in the skillet

  • Next, add in the 2 cups of cooked quinoa and continue to saute 5-6 minutes
  • Serve immediately. However, leftovers also reheat well.

 

 Sausage, Asparagus & Quinoa Meal on plate

 

This easy recipe is perfect for busy nights but still healthy and flavorful. You really can’t go wrong. If you are looking for a new way to try quinoa and asparagus, you really can’t go wrong with this recipe.

Print Recipe

Sausage, Asparagus & Quinoa Meal Recipe

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Total Time25 mins
Course: dinner
Servings: 4
Author: Melissa

Ingredients

  • 1 C. uncooked quinoa makes 2 C. cooked
  • 1 C. fresh asparagus washed and the ends cut off
  • 8 oz smoked sausage cut into quarters
  • 2 C. chicken broth
  • salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil.
  • Add in the 1 cup of uncooked quinoa. Lower the heat and allow the quinoa to simmer, stirring occasionally, until cooked, about 10-15 minutes.
  • In a separate pan, saute the fresh asparagus and smoked sausage on medium heat until the asparagus is tender, about 10-15 minutes. I've found I didn't need to add any oil with the sausage.
  • Add in the 2 cups of cooked quinoa and continue to saute 5-6 minutes.
  • Serve immediately.
  • Leftovers also reheat well.

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Want more easy and tasty recipes? Here are a few of our favorites.

More Easy Dinner Recipes

Easy Fish Tacos Recipe

Quick and Easy Red Pepper Chicken Recipe

Easy Kung Pao Chicken Recipe

Easy Crock Pot Chicken Tostada Recipe

Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders Recipe

easy and tasty recipes

 

How To Build The Ultimate Meal Planning Pantry & Pantry Inventory

March 16, 2020 By Melissa 4 Comments
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The easiest way to be successful in meal planning for your family is to always have certain items on hand.  These tips for building the ultimate meal planning pantry and pantry inventory will help you to have a lot of things on hand when needed to supplement your recipe list for easy meal planning. If you purchase the items for your meal planning pantry when they are on sale you can really save as well. [Read more…]

20 Easy Sheet Pan Meals/ One Pan Sheet Meals

February 20, 2020 By Melissa 1 Comment
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If you love the convenience of easy cleanup and mostly hands-off dinners, then you’ll want to check out this collection of more than 20 easy sheet pan meals.  Check out these easy sheet pan dinners that are perfect for busy weeknights. These one sheet pan meals recipes will give you the inspiration to make a variety of meals that your hungry family will adore.  We even include some healthy sheet plan meals.  You’ll find easy ways to make chicken parmesan, beef or chicken fajitas, deliciously flavored salmon and white fish, delectable sheet pan shrimp meals, succulent pork recipes and more. You’ll even learn how to make scrambled eggs on a sheet pan! Sheet pan clean up is a breeze when you use foil, parchment paper or non-stick silicone baking mats. Let these sheet pan dinner recipes help you make awesome meals, all with the help of a sheet pan and an oven!

easy sheet pan meals

Looking for the best one-sheet meals? We rounded them up for you!

Easy Sheet Pan Meals / One Sheet Pan Meals

Luscious pineapple gives a touch of sweetness to this tasty sheet pan chicken meal. A quick teriyaki marinade of just 30 minutes is all that’s required to give the chicken a tender and outrageous flavor. Then it’s just 15 minutes in the oven along with some veggies before serving up this tasty meal.
Sheet Pan Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken by Averie Cooks

No need to stand over a skillet and stir fry this meal when you can easily put it on a sheet pan instead! You’ll still get awesome flavor and tender beef that’s seasoned with a sticky sauce full of garlic and ginger. Don’t forget the green beans for some crunch!
Sheet Pan Mongolian Beef by A Spicy Perspective

Just wait until you taste these delicious Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Apple! These easy baked pork chops are perfect for holiday dinners, weekend family suppers, or just a delicious weeknight meal to gather everyone around the kitchen table.
Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Apple by Everyday Savvy

You’ll love the super easy clean up of this buttery shrimp scampi recipe that’s made right on a sheet pan! Tomatoes and asparagus are the perfect veggies to go with this garlicky shrimp meal. Serve with a side of pasta and be prepared for rave reviews from your family and friends.
Sheet Pan Shrimp Scampi by Carlsbad Cravings

Go vegan with this delicious tofu and veggie sheet pan meal. The tofu crisps up perfectly in the oven along with colorful bell peppers and broccoli. Add a homemade peanut sauce to take this Asian-inspired meal over the top!
Sheet Pan Crispy Tofu & Vegetables with Peanut Sauce by Joy Food Sunshine

Cashews add the perfect crunch to this chicken meal that bakes in about 20 minutes on a sheet pan. You’ll love the Chinese-inspired soy, honey and sesame sauce, too. Forget all about take-out with this meal!
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken by Life Made Sweeter

What could be easier than adding a flank steak to a sheet pan surrounded by sliced green peppers and onions and sliding it into the oven for 30 minutes? Not much! You’ll get steak that’s perfect for slicing thin for your Philly sandwich along with the tender peppers and onions. Add provolone cheese and enjoy this classic meal.
Sheet Pan Philly Cheesesteak by Eazy Peazy Mealz

Carrots and green beans make the perfect side items for these spicy soy sauce and ginger glazed Alaskan salmon fillets. Can you believe you can prep and bake this entire meal in about 15 minutes? Win-win!
Sheet Pan Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon by Eat Yourself Skinny

No frying needed with these simple sheet pan pork chops flavored with a delectable honey mustard sauce. Add cubed sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts to the pan for a deliciously hearty meal.
Honey Mustard Sheet Pan Pork Chops by Simply Recipes

Sausage lovers will appreciate this easy meal full of veggies and tasty Kielbasa slices. Carrots, broccoli, onions and peppers share space with the sausage on a sheet pan that’s baked for just 20 minutes. Serve with a side of rice for a hearty meal.
Sheet Pan Roasted Veggies And Sausage by Recipe Girl

If you need a breakfast meal to feed a crowd, consider this sheet pan egg recipe. Grab several cartons of eggs and get ready to scramble them for the sheet pan that’s at least 1″ deep. Season the eggs and add veggies, bacon, ham, and cheese if you like. Bake for 20 minutes and serve to your hungry family and friends!
Sheet Pan Eggs by Sweet Peas And Saffron

This gorgeous chicken sheet pan meal is full of veggies goodness from Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes and apples. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as these flavors cook. Enjoy this meal knowing that the cleanup will be a breeze!
Sheet Pan Chicken with Sweet Potatoes, Apples, and Brussels Sprouts by Well Plated

Make this mild white fish meal of lemon herbed cod along with garlicky green beans and zucchini. You can even make the zesty sauce the day before to save time so all you need to do is load the sheet pan and bake!
Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Cod by Lexi’s Clean Kitchen

Eggplant parmesan can be easily made on a sheet pan, and it’s also a great way to make it ahead of time and warm up later. You can even add turkey meatballs to make this a hearty meal for meat lovers. Awesome!
Sheet Pan Eggplant Parmesan by Bunsen Burner Bakery

Cut your chicken breasts into strips and add fajita seasoning to them before placing on a sheet pan. Add your sliced peppers, onions, zucchini and mushrooms to the pan and bake for about 25 minutes. Serve with flour tortillas and all your favorite toppings.
Chicken Fajitas by Sweet Peas And Saffron

Make this sheet pan recipe for breakfast or dinner. Cubed sweet potatoes, red onion and Brussels sprouts bake along with sunny-side up eggs for a delicious meal any time of the day. Oh, and the clean up is a breeze if you use a baking mat on the sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Sweet Potato Hash With Eggs by Zesty Olive

Make this healthy version of fish and chips right at home on a sheet pan. The potatoes spears get tossed with olive oil and get a head start with the roasting process. Coat your fish with Panko breadcrumbs and add to the sheet pan for the last 20 minutes. Serve with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.
Sheet Pan Fish And Chips by Simply Recipes

Even picky eaters will enjoy this tasty chicken parmesan sheet pan meal complete with a side of your choice of veggie. Broccoli is used here, but use what you have on hand. Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce and Mozzarella cheese make this chicken an irresistible entree that the whole family will love.
Sheet Pan Chicken Parmesan by Six Sisters Stuff

Lemon, dill and yogurt give this sheet pan salmon a delicious tangy flavor along with an extra hit of lemon pepper. Add asparagus or green beans to the sheet pan and bake for just 15 minutes. So easy and quick!
Lemon Pepper Salmon by Sweet Peas And Saffron

Here’s how easy this recipe is: toss shrimp, sliced turkey sausage, zucchini, red onion, and bell peppers with a homemade cajun spice blend, turn it out on to a sheet pan and bake. Serve with as side of pasta, if desired, or just gobble it up as is!
Cajun Shrimp And Sausage by Kevin Is Cooking

With just a little bit of prep work and brining before baking you can make the most tender and juicy pork tenderloin ever. It’s easy to do and you’ll love the chili rub that gives the pork an outrageous flavor. Cook potatoes and green beans on the sheet pan, too, and enjoy this awesome meal.
Sheet Pan Chili Dijon Pork Tenderloin by Carlsbad Cravings

More Meal Planning Resources

101 Meal Planning Tips

How to Create a Meal Planning Pantry

Meal Planning with an Instant Pot

How to Use a Crock Pot for Meal Planning

Meal Planning Tips with Picky Eaters 

Meal Planning – Once a Month Meals

Must-Have Meal Planning Tools 

Restricted Diets & Food Allergies Meal Planning Tips

Wondering How to Make a Meal Plan?

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easy one sheet meals

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Best Healthy Instant Pot Recipes

January 23, 2020 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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If you are looking for quick healthy recipes, you will want to check out the 20 healthy Instant Pot recipes that are perfect for your busy life. These top easy healthy Instant Pot recipes are full of flavor and lots of different ingredients so you are sure to find a healthy Instant Pot idea your family will love.

best healthy instant pot recipes

20 Healthy Instant Pot Recipes

It’s no secret that the Instant Pot is a chef’s new best friend for getting meals on the table in record time. It’s also a great appliance for helping you create healthy meals with little to no fuss, thanks to the benefits of pressurized cooking. This collection of healthy Instant Pot recipes is full of menu planning ideas from breakfast and the way through to dessert. You’ll find meal recipes for meat lovers as well as vegetarians. From soups to stews, from fajitas to meatballs and from lentils to veggies, you’ll find inspiration for healthy cooking for a range of dietary needs. With minimal prep, these mouth-watering recipes will practically make themselves allowing you to enjoy delicious and healthy meals in no time at all!

Are Instant Pot Recipes Healthy?

That all depends on the ingriendents you use. Instant pot recipes can be full of fat or full of healthy ingrentients. We rounded up the top healthy instant pot recipes that can make it so easy to eat healthy. cehck out these top rated healthy Instant Pot recipes.

There’s no need to add sugar to naturally sweet apples when you make this healthy pressure cooker version of applesauce. Just core the apples, slice them (leave the peels on) and place them in your Instant Pot. Add a little water, turn it on and come back in 10 minutes to an awesome batch of applesauce. So delicious!
Instant Pot Applesauce No Sugar Added by Detoxinista

This chicken noodle soup that’s full of healthy veggies is a recipe that every Instant Pot owner should master. Good news: it’s so easy! Sauté your carrots, celery, onion and garlic before adding the chicken, stock and seasonings. Noodles go in at the very end for a delicious and hearty soup that the whole family will love.
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup by Taste And See

Forget boiling eggs on the stovetop and instead use your pressure cooker for the perfect hard boiled eggs – every time! You can even batch cook eggs for meal planning purposes so you always have them ready to go for the week. Plus, using your Instant Pot makes the eggs incredibly easy to peel. Awesome!
Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs by Recipes From A Pantry

Try these gluten free turkey meatballs for a change from beef. You can even cook these from frozen and they’ll still be tasty and tender. The turkey meatballs get cooked right in the sauce so all the seasoning and flavors are infused into the meat. They cook in about 10 minutes making this an easy dish to get on the table quickly.
Gluten Free Instant Pot Turkey Meatballs by Flippin Delicious

Give your Instant Pot 20 minutes to make this savory fajita dish full of spices, steak, peppers and onions. No fancy cooking skills are needed; just slice, dump, seal and cook and then come back to plate it up. You’ll love the tender beef and spicy veggies!
Instant Pot Steak Fajitas by Little Sunny Kitchen

Make this batch of healthy chili to feed a crowd or save the leftovers for another meal. Start with sautéing the turkey and onions before adding the rest of the ingredients The butternut squash cubes go in last, on top. Just 15 minute of high pressure renders you a delicious chili that’s family approved.
Butternut Squash Turkey Chili by Fit Mitten Kitchen

If you enjoy the flavors of egg rolls you’ll want to try this deconstructed version that comes together easily in your pressure cooker. Ground beef, cabbage, carrots, ginger, garlic, onion and riced cauliflower combine to make this egg roll in a bowl your new favorite go-to meal for busy nights!
Instant Pot Egg Roll In A Bowl by Awefilled Homemaker

The secret to this healthy cake is chocolate. That’s right! Flavonoids are the key ingredient in dark chocolate that make it a heart-healthy food. Make sure and choose dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa. Oh, and this cake is also gluten-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free. Win-win!
Instant Pot Chocolate Pudding Cake by This Pilgrim Life

Dried red lentil are pressure cooked to tenderness with this zesty vegetarian soup full of beans and veggies in a spicy tomato sauce. Set out your favorite toppings while your Instant Pot cooks this Mexican-inspired soup to perfection. Serve to rave reviews!
Vegetarian Lentil Tortilla Soup by Peas And Crayons

Sauté your meat, onions and garlic in your Instant Pot before building your lasagna. Using a baking pan, layer your lasagna ingredients, minus the noodle layers. Add water to the bottom of your Instant Pot, set the pan on your pressure cooker bakeware sling and cook for 9 minutes. You’ll love the flavor and healthy no-pasta version of this lasagna!
Instant Pot No Noodle Lasagna by Low Carb Yum

If you love oatmeal you’ll want to use steel cut oats for a healthy meal. Your Instant Pot will pressure cook them to tender perfection. Learn how to use just water or a mix of water and milk for the ultimate flavor and best texture results. When cooked, just add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats by A Mind Full Mom

Season these short ribs with a combo of butter, garlic, and fresh thyme for fall-off-the-bone goodness. Sear the short ribs, sauté the seasonings and then pressure cook for 35 minutes. It’s worth the time for these delectable ribs!
Garlic Butter Instant Pot Short Ribs by Delicious Little Bites

Using ground chicken, you can make this easy meal in under 20 minutes. Season the chicken with spices and add some veggies like diced zucchini to add a little more substance. Sauté and then add the liquid ingredients to infuse and cook the meat fully. Use butter lettuce for the perfect rollup vehicle. Savory!
Pressure Cooker Chicken Lettuce Wraps by Simply Recipes

For a protein-pack meal make these spice black beans which turn out tender every time thanks to your pressure cooker. There’s no need to pre-soak your beans. You’ll just sauté your veggies and spices before adding the dry beans and water or broth. Cook for 50 minutes and enjoy these spicy beans as is or use in other recipes throughout the week.
Mexican Black Beans In The Instant Pot by Piping Hot Curry

Give your Instant Pot 30 minutes to make you this delicious plant-based curry. A base of creamy coconut milk flavors the cauliflower and garbanzo beans. Spice it up with onions, garlic, ginger, garam masala and curry powder. Garnish with cashews, if desired. So tasty!
Cauliflower Tikka Masala by The Forked Spoon

Make this immune-boosting soup full of veggies like broccoli, carrots, celery and tomatoes. Beans, along with garlic, basil, and raw buckwheat groats fill out this healthy soup profile. Make a batch for today and stash some in your fridge for later.
Instant Pot Spring Vegetable Soup by Kitchen Of Youth

It only takes 5 ingredients to make this vegan dessert pudding. Dry rice with coconut milk and unsweetened coconut make the creamiest healthy pudding that kids as well as adults will enjoy. Top with fruit, if desired.
Instant Pot Coconut Rice Pudding by Simply Happy Foodie

Pressure cook frozen or fresh heart-healthy salmon in about 20 minutes! Full of omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is also a great source of protein. Just place your salmon fillets on a metal trivet, add a cup of water to the pot and let it work its magic.
Instant Pot Salmon by Detoxinista

No need to simmer this soup all day; just make this easy minestrone soup in your pressure cooker to deepen the flavor. Use kidney beans, cannellini beans and yummy veggies like carrots, green beans, celery, spinach and zucchini for a colorful, healthy and delicious meal.
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup by Life Made Sweeter

Chicken breasts with tangy lemon juice, zest and garlic get pressure-cooked to delicious tenderness. Remove your chicken and finish the meal with asparagus and artichoke hearts. There will be actual awesome sauce left over that you’ll want to spoon on to every delicious bite of this meal!
Instant Pot Lemon Chicken by Lexi’s Clean Kitchen

 

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Easy Dinner Ideas for Family

January 11, 2020 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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Looking for easy dinner ideas for family? You have come to the right place. These quick family meals make it easy to get a dinner on the table quickly that your whole family will love.

twenty plus quick and easy dinner ideas for family

 

20 Plus Quick And Easy Dinner Ideas for Family

When you need quick meal idieas and easy dinner to put together, keep this collection of recipes handy. Here, you’ll find  easy family meals that can be made in about 30 minutes as well as those can be ready in as little as 10 minutes! Get inspired with savory and meaty meals of chicken, beef, turkey and pork as well as seafood meals of shrimp and salmon. You’ll also find meatless meals for delicious dinner options. One-pan skillet meals, sheet pan meals, as well as pressure cooker meals all help to make your cooking experience quick, easy and nutritious. From pizza and pasta to soup and hot dogs, you’ll find a variety simple dinner ideas for family  that will soon become family favorites while saving you time in the kitchen.

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Sweet Potato Appetizer – Sweet Potato Crisps with Slaw Recipe

November 18, 2019 By Melissa 4 Comments
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Sweet Potato Crisps with Slaw are the easiest most flavorful  sweet potato appetizer ever and they are also a total crowd favorite.

This Sweet Potato Crisps with Slaw recipe is the easiest most flavorful appetizer ever and they are also a total crowd favorite.

 

Ok, I have a confession to make. I was not a huge fan of sweet potatoes. There I said it! Sure they were great on Thanksgiving and I have a couple of tried and true recipes that are made with sweet potatoes (and gosh I love those recipes), but outside of that, they were not my favorite. Needless to say, I never explored the option of using them as an appetizer. These sweet potato bites make a perfect Thanksgiving appetizer. [Read more…]

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Apple Easy Dinner Recipe

November 6, 2019 By Thena Franssen Leave a Comment
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Just wait until you taste these delicious Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Apple ! These easy baked pork chops are perfect for holiday dinners, weekend family suppers, or just a delicious weeknight meal to gather everyone around the kitchen table.

The best part about this oven roasted pork chop recipe is that you only need 5 simple ingredients to get started. And I’m talking easy ingredients!

Once you combine them together and cook them, you’re going to realize that you’ve just found a dependable go-to weekly meal. Everything about this recipe is simple, easy, and delicious.

There’s no reason that you can’t have this into your weekly meal-planning or rotation without any sort of issues!

Sign up for my easy meal planning tips here. Getting dinner on the table doesn’t have to be hard and it saves you time and money!

 

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Apple

Packed full of healthy ingredients, get ready to get started!

Ingredients needed to make these easy baked boneless pork chops

  • 4 Boneless Pork Chops
  • Green Beans
  • Sweet Potatoes 
  • Olive Oil
  • 1 12oz Can Apple Pie Filler

boneless pork chops sheet pan green beans sweet potato

How to make this  roasted  pork chops in the oven

Place pork chops on the sheet pan. These is such a simple way to make boneless pork chops in oven. Need a sheet pan?  This sheet pan has great reviews. 

Clean and slice your green beans. Then place them on the sheet pan.

boneless pork chops sheet pan green beans sweet potato baked in oven

Slice up the sweet potatoes and place them on the sheet pan.

Drizzle with olive oil.

Preheat the oven to 350 and place in the oven for 30 minutes or until pork chops reach 150-155 degrees.

Remove from the oven and pour the apple pie filling over the entire sheet pan meal.

Place in the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve and enjoy your boneless pork chops with apples and sweet potatoes! 

boneless pork chops sheet pan green beans sweet potato on plate easy dinner

Print Recipe

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Apple & Sweet Potato

Don't miss out on this delicious Sheet Pan Pork Chops.

Ingredients

  • 4 Boneless Pork Chops
  • Green Beans
  • Sweet Potatoes 
  • Olive Oil
  • 1 12oz Can Apple Pie Filler

Instructions

  • Place pork chops on the sheet pan.
  • Clean and slice your green beans. Then place them on the sheet pan.
  • Slice up the sweet potatoes and place them on the sheet pan.
  • Drizzle with olive oil.
  • Preheat the oven to 350 and place in the oven for 30 minutes or until pork chops reach 150-155 degrees.
  • Remove from the oven and pour the apple pie filling over the entire sheet pan meal.
  • Place in the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
  • Serve and enjoy! 

Be sure to pin this recipe for later! 

 

Looking for more great easy pork and beef recipes? Check these out!

  • Easy Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs
  • Simple & Fresh Homemade Easy Beef Bowl Recipe
  • Easy Barbecue Beef Sliders Recipe with Memphis Slaw

Caramel Pumpkin Overnight Oats

October 22, 2019 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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What if I told you that there was a way that you could just wake up and have your breakfast ready and waiting for you? With this Caramel Pumpkin Overnight Oats recipe, that’s exactly what can happen.

mason jar with pumpkin overnight oats

With just a tad bit of prepping and planning the night before, you can wake up knowing that you have a delicious breakfast recipe that’s just waiting for you to enjoy.  And who doesn’t want that sweet taste bright and early in the morning? Sign me up for sure, I can’t wait!

This easy overnight oats recipe is literally as easy as possible and it offers up some truly delicious and unique flavors. It’s time to give in to the “easy” route and meal prep your breakfast the night before. As you’re dishing up these overnight oats with pumpkin, you’re going to be already thinking about the next time that you can make it again!

Caramel Pumpkin Overnight Oats

As you can see from the list of ingredients below, this simple breakfast recipe is totally worth it.

Ingredients needed for Caramel Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats

For Oat Mixture:

  • 2 cups old fashioned oats 
  • 1 cup plain greek yogurt
  • 3 tbsp canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix, just pumpkin)
  • 2 cups milk or milk product of your choice (I used unsweetened vanilla almond milk)
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

For layering:

  • 6 crumbled graham crackers
  • 6 tbsp caramel syrup (I used ice cream topping)
  • 3 tbsp chopped pecan pieces

Ingredients for pumpkin pie overnight oats

How to make this homemade overnight oats recipe

Mix the first 6 ingredients together in a large bowl. Adjust the amount of milk until the desired thickness of the oat mixture. (some people like it thinner or thicker, keeping in mind it will absorb the liquid and become thicker on its own)

mixture of pumpkin overnight oats in bowl

Layer all ingredients in a jar.

Add 1 crumbled graham cracker, 1 tbsp caramel syrup, & a sprinkle of pecan pieces to the bottom of the jar.

Add ¼ of the oat mixture to the jar.

Add 1 crumbled graham cracker, 1 tbsp caramel syrup, & a sprinkle of pecan pieces to the bottom of the jar.

layers of pumpkin pie overnight oats in mason jar

Add ¼ of the oat mixture to the jar.

Add 1 crumbled graham cracker, 1 tbsp caramel syrup, & a sprinkle of pecan pieces to the bottom of the jar.

Repeat for 2nd jar.

Refrigerate at least 6 hours, or overnight.

Eat within 3 days.

pumpkin overnight oats in jar with small pumpkin

Wondering where to find an Overnight Oats Jar?

We made this pumpkin oatmeal in a standard mason jar that you can find at many home goods or even grocery stores.  Overnight Oats Jars are also available on Amazon.

Print Recipe

Caramel Pumpkin Overnight Oats

You're going to love how simple this Caramel Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats recipe is! 

Ingredients

For Oat Mixture:

  • 2 cups old fashioned oats
  • 1 cup plain greek yogurt
  • 3 tbsp canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix, just pumpkin)
  • 2 cups milk or milk product of your choice (I used unsweetened vanilla almond milk)
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

For layering:

  • 6 crumbled graham crackers
  • 6 tbsp caramel syrup (I used ice cream topping)
  • 3 tbsp chopped pecan pieces

Instructions

  • Mix the first 6 ingredients together in a large bowl. Adjust the amount of milk until the desired thickness of the oat mixture. (some people like it thinner or thicker, keeping in mind it will absorb the liquid and become thicker on its own)
  • Layer all ingredients in a jar.
  • Add 1 crumbled graham cracker, 1 tbsp caramel syrup, & a sprinkle of pecan pieces to the bottom of the jar.
  • Add ¼ of the oat mixture to the jar.
  • Add 1 crumbled graham cracker, 1 tbsp caramel syrup, & a sprinkle of pecan pieces to the bottom of the jar.
  • Add ¼ of the oat mixture to the jar.
  • Add 1 crumbled graham cracker, 1 tbsp caramel syrup, & a sprinkle of pecan pieces to the bottom of the jar.
  • Repeat for 2nd jar.
  • Refrigerate at least 6 hours, or overnight.
  • Eat within 3 days.

 

Looking for more great pumpkin recipes? Check these out!

  • Pumpkin Roll Recipe & Instructions
  • No Bake Pumpkin Cookies Recipe
  • Pumpkin Parfait Recipe

Harvest Fall Trail Mix Recipe – Halloween Chex Mix

September 12, 2019 By Melissa 5 Comments
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halloween chex mix with candy corn

Fall is here and who can resist candy corn? I put together this fun harvest fall trail mix recipe that tastes amazing. It has just the right amount of crunch and sweetness. This would be fun to eat at home or as a snack at a Halloween or Fall Harvest party. It is very easy to make as well. You just add the ingredients and mix it up in bowl. So so simple.. right?!? It is a great Halloween Chex Mix.

This Halloween candy corn trail mix looks so cute and it a great treat to hand out. I love when recipes and easy but look great too. The only trouble you will have is that you may need to double or triple the recipe because your friends and family will love it so much! The full recipe is below with all the easy ingredients and a button to print the recipe.

Some people have told me they had difficulty finding this fall candy assortment. It is available with Amazon Prime so you can have it delivered right to you! This recipe is so easy that is that you can put it together so quickly but it looks and tastes great.  This is a nut free trail mix so perfect for parties when you might be worried about nut allergies.

Halloween Trail Mix Ingredients

3 C assorted Chex cereal
2 C assorted pretzels
1/2 C mini chocolate chips
1/2 C mini butterscotch chips
1 C assorted Fall candy (candy corn, pumpkins, and orange & chocolate candy corn)

Seasonings
3 Tbsp of Cinnamon
2 Tbsp of Brown sugar
1 tsp salt

Halloween Chex Mix Directions

Add Chex cereal and Pretzels in a bowl
Add all seasonings and stir
Add remaining ingredients and mix again
Store in zip lock bag or sealed container

If making this for a Halloween party, you could package the fall trail mix into individual treat bags. It is such a simple and cute treat for harvest parties or Halloween school parties. Plus it is a nut free trail mix.

Do you like candy corn?  I find people seem to love it or hate it. There is not much in between. This candy corn snack mix  might help you warm up to candy corn since it includes the sweetness and the crunch of the chex mix.

Click here to pin this recipe for later.

Fall is here and who can resist candy corn? I put together this fun harvest fall trail mix recipe. This would be fun to eat at home or as a snack at a Halloween or Fall Harvest party. It is very easy to make as well.

Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Harvest Fall Trail Mix Recipe

Author: Melissa

Ingredients

  • 3 C assorted Chex cereal
  • 2 C assorted pretzels
  • 1/2 C mini chocolate chips
  • 1/2 C mini butterscotch chips
  • 1 C assorted Fall candy candy corn, pumpkins, and orange & chocolate candy corn

Seasonings

  • 3 Tbsp of Cinnamon
  • 2 Tbsp of Brown sugar
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Add Chex cereal and Pretzels in a bowl
  • Add all seasonings and stir
  • Add remaining ingredients and mix again
  • Store in zip lock bag or sealed container

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Looking for more easy Halloween recipes?

Candy Corn Halloween Rice Krispie Treats

Monster Pasta Recipe

Skeleton Cookies

Pumpkin Spice Parfait

Want more easy and tasty recipes?

easy and tasty recipes

Fall is here and who can resist candy corn? I put together this fun harvest fall trail mix recipe. This would be fun to eat at home or as a snack at a Halloween or Fall Harvest party. It is very easy to make as well.

Easy Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

September 3, 2019 By Melissa 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links that help support this site at no additional cost to you. Please read my disclosure page for more info.

Easy apple cinnamon rolls recipe with cream cheese frosting. Great for breakfast, brunch or a dessert or treat!

Looking for a special and easy treat for breakfast or brunch? Then you will want to check out this Easy Apple Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This is  so easy to make but is an yummy breakfast treat that everyone will love. I promise I won’t tell anyone how easy it is to make! [Read more…]

Monster Pasta Recipe – Great Halloween Meal

September 2, 2019 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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Check out this fun and easy monster pasta recipe. This works great for a fun Halloween meal or for a monster themed party.

 

Looking for a fun and easy Halloween meal idea or a monster theme party meal? Check out this Monster Pasta recipe. Your kids will love it and it is so easy to make. The monster eyes are made with meatballs and olives. We included a homemade marinara sauce recipe but you can always use jarred sauce if you prefer. Also, we included frozen meatballs but you can always make your own as well. The full printable recipe is below. [Read more…]

Chocolate Skeleton Cookies Recipe

September 1, 2019 By Melissa 8 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links that help support this site at no additional cost to you. Please read my disclosure page for more info.

Looking for a fun treat for Halloween? Check out this chocolate skeleton cookies recipe made with a gingerbread man cookie cutter.

 

Looking for a fun treat for a Halloween party? Then check out these  chocolate skeleton cookies made with a gingerbread man cookie cutter. These are so cute and fun for any Halloween get together. You could bag them and give them as a Halloween treat at school halloween parties. [Read more…]

Pumpkin Parfait Recipe

September 1, 2019 By Melissa 8 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links that help support this site at no additional cost to you. Please read my disclosure page for more info.

This easy pumpkin parfait recipe is a yummy pumpkin dessert recipe. It is easy to make but looks so fancy! Great ending for Thanksgiving dinner or any fall get togther.This pumpkin parfait makes an amazing fall recipe. It is easy to make but looks so fancy! It would be a great ending for Thanksgiving dinner or any other fall occasion.

 

It is pumpkin spice season and this recipe is a fun twist with pumpkin spice, canned pumpkin and pudding mix. This easy pumpkin pudding parfait makes an amazing fall recipe. One of the things I love about it is that it is so simple to make but looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.

This easy pumpkin dessert recipe would be a great ending for Thanksgiving dinner or any other fall occasion. It is light and tasty and a great alternative to traditional pumpkin pie. The full printable recipe is below. You can either use whipped cream or whipped topping whichever you prefer. [Read more…]

Halloween Sparkling Cranberry Apple Cider Punch Recipe

September 1, 2019 By Melissa 5 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links that help support this site at no additional cost to you. Please read my disclosure page for more info.

halloween cranberry cider

 

Looking for a fun kid-friendly easy drink for Halloween? This Halloween Apple Cider Punch recipe or Cranberry cider is perfect. There are just three ingredients – cranberry juice,  sparkling apple cider and grenadine. You can make these up very quickly in individual portions. Having the cranberry apple cider is individual portion is great for kids. You could also use a punch bowl if desired and have cranberry apple cider punch.

 

We made these drinks in mason jars with black lids with straw holes. I love that you can change the look of the mason jars with different lids, straws and vinyl decorations. (Lots of vinyl info here) The mason jars make this a fun Halloween drink but you could change the colored top and straws and vinyl decorations and this sparkling apple cider punch could be made for many holidays or celebrations.

With kids (or even adults) it is nice to have a lid so there are no spills during your Halloween party or event. In no time at all, you can mix up this punch and have a fancy and fun Halloween beverage.

If you want to make this Halloween drink for adults, you could spike the recipe with your favorite alcohol. Both vodka and rum would pair nicely with this recipe depending on your taste preference.

Sparking Cranberry Apple Cider Punch Ingredients

4 Cups Cranberry Juice
4 cups Sparkling apple cider
4 Tbsp Grenadine
Ice

How To Make Cranberry Cider for a Halloween Drink

  • Fill the 4 8oz glasses with ice 3/4 of the way full
  • Pour 1 cup of Sparkling apple cider in each glass
  • Pour 1 cup of Cranberry Juice on top of the cider
  • Add 1 Tbsp. Grenadine to each glass
  • Lightly stir

 

Looking for more ideas for a Halloween party or for Halloween treats? Check out these easy recipes.

Halloween Monster Pasta

Candy Corn Rice Krispie Treats

Pumpkin No-bake Cookies

Skeleton Cookies

Harvest Trail Mix

Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Halloween Apple Cider Punch Recipe

Check out this fun kid friendly Halloween drink.
Prep Time5 mins
Total Time5 mins
Cuisine: Beverage
Servings: 4
Author: Melissa

Ingredients

  • 4 Cups Cranberry Juice
  • 4 cups Sparkling apple cider
  • 4 Tbsp Grenadine
  • Ice

Instructions

  • Fill the 4 8oz glasses with ice 3/4 of the way full
  • Pour 1 cup of Sparkling apple cider in each glass
  • Pour 1 cup of Cranberry Juice on top of the cider
  • Add 1 Tbsp. Grenadine to each glass
  • Lightly stir

 

 

 

 

101 Meal Planning Ideas & Tips – How to Meal Plan

August 20, 2019 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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Looking for meal planning ideas?  Here are 101 easy ideas to help show you how to meal plan and get dinner on the table with less stress while you are saving money.

meal planning ideas and how to make a meal plan

Meal planning is something that everyone should use to help keep their grocery budget in check and their weeknights easier to manage.  Meal planning is one of the most simple ways to save money.  Money that you can then spend on other things that are important to you! You don’t have to feel overwhelmed by meal planning. There are tons of great tips out there for making your menu amazing, cheap, and something everyone in your family will love.  These tips are a great beginning to an amazing meal planning routine for your kitchen.  If you are looking for a meal plan template or printable meal planner, be sure to sign up for this how-to meal plan checklist including a weekly menu planning printable sheet.  I also include a special offer for a meal planning book. 

 

With back to school, I thought this would be a great time to think more about meal planning and how it can save you time, money and stress.

101 Tips For Meal Planning Success – Meal Planning Tips 

This list of tips includes links to our own posts with more details, as well as some basic concepts that work great for any menu type you choose.

 

 

  1. Utilize already prepared menu plans to help you get ideas and have a grocery list on hand easily. One of our favorites is Eat at Home. 
  2. Shop once a month for main ingredients and weekly for fresh fruits and vegetables
  3. Limit new recipes to only 2-3 times per month
  4. Invest in quality food storage like a Food Saver or Pyrex Freezer Bowls. See more must have meal planning tools here. 
  5. Always label all freezer meals with date prepared, recipe name, and ingredients
  6. Get your family involved in decision making to learn their favorite meals.
  7. Add easy to prepare meals for your kids and spouse to make.
  8. Don’t forget adding breakfast for dinner is a great option.
  9. Use liners in your Crockpot to save time on cleanup.
  10. Make double batches of breads, cakes, cookies, and brownies to freeze for future snacks or additions to meals.
  11. Use limited leftovers to create casseroles by adding a pasta or rice and a cream soup base. Great with small amounts of veggies and chicken.
  12. Make your own seasoning blends to cut back on expense and sodium in your meals.
  13. Stick with seasonal foods to cut back on costs.  Buy when on sale and freeze for future meals during off-season.
  14. Use your Crockpot or Instant Pot for cooking in summer to avoid heating the house with the oven.
  15. Don’t overcrowd your freezer.  Foods freeze faster and healthier when there is air to circulate around them.
  16. Use your Instant Pot for easy and fast last minute meals including roasts, chicken, soups, stews, and pastas.
  17. Plan to use leftovers for lunches by creating larger portions.
  18. Use theme nights to make planning easier: Taco Tuesday, Soup Sunday, etc.
  19. Complete the full meal planning calendar by planning ahead for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  20. Make dessert a once per week treat instead of daily menu option.
  21. Create easy breakfast freezer items like breakfast burritos, muffins, breakfast sandwiches, and smoothie packs that work on any meal plan.
  22. Never grocery shop without a list.  
  23. Break your grocery list down by aisles of the store with notes of prices in sales papers.
  24. Take help with you to make grocery shopping easier, and to keep on track so you don’t make unnecessary purchases.
  25. Add leftover vegetables to a freezer bag to be thrown into soups or stews or later easy meals.
  26. Don’t throw away marinades.  Reduce and boil to kill bacteria and use as a sauce for meats and vegetables.
  27. Double check your pantry and freezer before shopping so you don’t buy something you already have on hand.
  28. Clean your kitchen in advance when preparing multiple meals at once so you have all tools available and an empty counter and sink to work with.
  29. Create freezer meals in big batches for less time in the kitchen throughout the month
  30. Host a meal planning swap with friends who also use freezer meals.  This gives you extra hands to prepare meals and a variety of foods.
  31. Create the ultimate meal planning pantry by stocking up on regularly used meal staple items like pasta, sauces, rice, and canned goods.
  32. Organize your pantry for easy access and viewing so you aren’t wasting money on last-minute grocery items.
  33. Buy extra shelves and baskets for your deep freeze for better storage
  34. Defrost your freezer regularly so freezer meals are properly stored and you have more room for frozen foods.
  35. Use the same ingredients in multiple recipes to cut back on costs.
  36. Buy in bulk and portion items to save money when meal planning.  Meats, bulk grains, dry beans, and spices are often the best deals.
  37. Take advantage of seasonal sales to stock your pantry and freezer with produce and meats at lowest prices.
  38. Make double batches for easy leftovers.
  39. Amp up flavors with fresh herbs.
  40. If making freezer casseroles, invest in quality dishes that can go from freezer to refrigerator to oven with no problems.
  41. Add healthier options gradually so not to overwhelm picky eaters and create wasted food.
  42. Prep fruits and vegetables as soon as you get home with them so none go bad in your refrigerator drawers.
  43. Batch cook meats and freeze in recipe portion sizes for faster meal preparation.
  44. Cook dry beans in your Crockpot then portion and freeze for easy use in recipes.  This saves time, money, and reduces sodium.
  45. Learn what foods freeze well to take advantage of sales (eggs, bananas, cheese, etc.)
  46. Keep a menu plan visible in the kitchen for reference. 
  47. Make sandwich nights a regular easy meal to give you a break from cooking.
  48. Use your grill for batch cooking meats and vegetables easily.
  49. Freeze meats in a marinade for even more flavor when cooking.
  50. Create hamburger patties and separate with wax paper before freezing for fast meals.  This can also be used for homemade breakfast sausages.
  51. Allow foods to cool before putting into the freezer to prevent condensation that creates freezer burn.
  52. Lay bags of soup flat on a cookie sheet to freeze then stack like books to save space in the freezer.
  53. Make double batches of soups, stews, and chili in the Crockpot to freeze for a second meal.
  54. Cook roasts in the Crockpot then shred for BBQ sandwiches, tacos, or casseroles.
  55. Cook baked regular and sweet potatoes in batches in the Crockpot to keep the kitchen cool in summer.  
  56. Make your own homemade French fries and tater tots by preparing and par-cooking allowing to cool, then freezing for future use.  This cuts back on savings and time for preparing fresh foods at mealtime.
  57. Drain excess grease from cooked ground meat before freezing.
  58. Use apps for helping stay on top of your grocery list and meal plan.
  59. Cook bacon in the oven in large batches then freeze for easy use in recipes.  This is faster and creates less mess.
  60. Invest in the right tools for your kitchen like sharp knives, cutting boards, stockpots, non-stick cookware, and casserole dishes with lids.
  61. Create your meal plans around the sales at the grocery store.
  62. Plan one week of meals just from your pantry and freezer to properly rotate food stock.
  63. Limit the addition of meat by adding beans into more casseroles, soups, chili, or tacos.
  64. Shred vegetables like zucchini, cabbage, and carrots to freeze for future recipes.
  65. Keep separate storage areas for ingredients some may be allergic to for safety in cooking.
  66. Create a master recipe list of family favorites then break down ingredients to keep those items on hand at all times.
  67. Add new recipes your family likes into a cookbook or recipe box marked with how often you will use for easy access later.
  68. Keep a printed and digital copy of your menu plans for easy access.  Evernote and Dropbox are great tools for this.
  69. Keep a list of ingredients, recipes, or styles of food your family doesn’t like so you won’t repeat in the future.
  70. Watch the weather for best times to grill outside or bake indoors when the temperatures are lower.
  71. Use Pinterest and Yummly on the go to create boards focused just on potential recipes for future meal planning. See some of my Pinterest boards here. 
  72. Keep vegetable peels in a freezer bag to later use for creating a flavorful vegetable stock to use in soups and stews.
  73. Invest in bag holders if creating freezer meals in large freezer bags.
  74. Use dry erase stickers for freezer containers to save costs long term.
  75. Wash vegetables and fruits in a vinegar and water rinse to kill germs and clean before cutting
  76. Freeze cheese before hand grating.  This makes it easier to work with softer cheeses in large batches.
  77. Save the butter wrapper to grease dishes with for baked goods.
  78. Save water from boiling pasta or potatoes to add back in as you mix with sauces for more flavor.
  79. Stock your pantry with ingredients for 3 meals that only require non-perishable items for emergencies.
  80. Only add recipes to your meal planning rotation that are approved by 75% of your family.  Food waste isn’t effective in budget meal planning.
  81. Follow food blogs and recipe groups for new ideas.
  82. Keep the same day each week or month for meal planning and food prep for consistency so you don’t get off track.
  83. Add one “clean out the fridge” night each week to help you cut back on leftovers being wasted.
  84. Add one vegetarian meal to your meal planning each week to cut back on costs and improve health.
  85. Calculate the expense of a ready-made meal plan prior to purchase.  Sometimes the cost far outweighs the frustration of locating recipes on your own and assembling a shopping list.
  86. Freeze wine in ice cubes for easy portions to add to soups and sauces while cooking.
  87. Prep fresh fruits and vegetables for freezing to use in recipes by cutting, patting dry, and allowing to freeze on a cookie sheet first.  You can then transfer to bags. This removes moisture and prevents freezer burn as well as clumping together in the freezer.
  88. Portion leftovers when you put food away so reheating is easier for lunches and meals later.
  89. When creating your grocery shopping list, list all recipes individually, then add duplicate items together to create the final total needed.
  90. Cook pasta in sauces instead of separately.  It takes longer but means less cleanup and the flavor of the pasta is much better.
  91. Create your own pasta sauce in the Crockpot then can for homemade cheaper sauce using fresh ingredients to stretch your meal planning budget and make meals easier to make.
  92. Keep your knives sharp so prep is easier to complete.
  93. Have a separate cutting board for raw veggies and raw meat for safety and faster meal preparation.
  94. Always empty your dishwasher or wash dishes before cooking so you have less mess to clean up afterward.
  95. Create semi-homemade meals using ready-made things like canned soups, frozen meatballs, or even cake mixes and add your own ingredients and twists to them.
  96. Roast whole chickens and turkeys when on sale then shred meat and portion for use in future casseroles and soups.
  97. Organize your refrigerator for easier use when preparing meals.  Keep like items together, and use extra shelves or bins to keep it organized as needed.
  98. Always keep at least 2-3 bags of frozen vegetables on hand that everyone enjoys for a fast addition to any meat.
  99. Always thaw frozen meals overnight in your refrigerator. Never thaw foods on the countertop. Follow FDA food safety guidelines for the health of your family.
  100. Invest in the right tools for the jobs.  Things like food processors are great multi-purpose tools for preparation, and slow cookers in multiple sizes make it easy to prepare a large meal while you work or spend time with family.
  101. Start slowly with just one week of meal planning at a time.  Once you get the hang of it, you can move to monthly meal planning.

Jump in with both feet and give meal planning a try using our tips above and in the listed articles we have created to break down some of the more difficult parts of meal planning for your family.

More Meal Planning Resources

How to Create a Meal Planning Pantry

Meal Planning with an Instant Pot

How to Use a Crock Pot for Meal Planning

Meal Planning Tips with Picky Eaters 

Meal Planning – Once a Month Meals

Must-Have Meal Planning Tools 

Restricted Diets & Food Allergies Meal Planning Tips

Wondering How to Make a Meal Plan?

Sign up for our simple tips and meal planning checklist that will make meal planning easy!

 

Peanut Butter Jelly Bars Recipe

August 7, 2019 By Melissa 14 Comments
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Looking for an easy back to school treat? Be sure to check out this Peanut Butter & Jelly Bars Recipe. These bars are simple to make from scratch with just a few ingredients including, of course, everyone's favorite peanut butter and jelly.

Looking for an easy back to school treat? Be sure to check out this Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe. These PB&J bars are simple to make from scratch with just a few ingredients including, of course, everyone’s favorite….. peanut butter and jelly! We love that these easy peanut butter bars include your favorite jam or jelly. These chewy peanut butter bars are a satisfying after school treat or could be packed for lunch.  [Read more…]

Easy Patriotic Dessert Marshmallow Pop

June 28, 2019 By Melissa Leave a Comment
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Looking for an easy patriotic dessert for a Fourth of July or Memorial day party? Check out these cute marshmallow pops that will be a hit at your next event.

This easy patriotic dessert of marshmallow pops is perfect for a Fourth of July party. Kids and adults will enjoy them.

 

I am always on the lookout for easy recipes that look cute and are tasty. These patriotic marshmallow pops are just that. You need just a few ingredients and they can be made quickly. They are super cute and fun though and would be great at any Fourth of July party.

Easy Patriotic Dessert Marshmallow Pop Ingredients

Jumbo marshmallows
Blue candy melts
Red candy melts
White sugar pearls
Decorating bag
Lollipop sticks

The ingredient measurements and printable recipe are at the end of this article.

Gather up your ingredients and two small microwave-safe bowls. These marshmallow pops are so easy that kids can easily help you make them. Younger kids could add the marshmallows to the sticks and even dip the ends in the melted candy melts. Tweens and teens could easily make these whole marshmallow pops themselves.

These holiday marshmallow pops are decorated for Fourth of July. However, you can use the same instructions with different color candy melts for birthday parties, baby showers, Christmas and more. You are only limited by your imagination.

Easy Patriotic Dessert Marshmallow Pop Directions

The first step is to stick 3 jumbo marshmallows onto the end of each lollipop stick. Next, in two small microwave-safe bowls, heat 2 cups of each blue and red candy melts on 50% power for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until melted.

Scoop your melted red candy melts in a decorating bag and cut a small tip off the end.

Dip the end of your marshmallow pop into the melted blue candy melts, making sure to cover the top marshmallow in the melted blue candy. Be sure to shake any excess candy melts off and place onto a piece of parchment paper.


You will then sprinkle some white candy pearls onto the melted blue candy melts.


Use your decorating bag to drizzle the red melted candy melts in stripes onto the other 2 marshmallows. Once complete, carefully transfer to the freezer for 15 minutes to harden.

Enjoy a tasty and easy patriotic dessert!

Looking for more patriotic treat and dessert recipes?

American Flag Pretzels

Easy Fourth of July Dessert – Berry  Tarts

Red, White and Blue Jello Stars

See the full Marshmallow pop recipe below.

Print Recipe

Easy Patriotic Dessert Marshmallow Pop

These cute marshmallow pops are perfect for a Fourth of July party.
Servings: 10

Ingredients

  • 30 Jumbo marshmallows
  • 2 cups Blue candy melts
  • 2 cups Red candy melts
  • White sugar pearls
  • 1 Decorating bag
  • 10 Lollipop sticks

Instructions

  • Stick 3 jumbo marshmallows onto the end of each lollipop stick.
  • In two small microwave safe bowls, heat 2 cups of each blue and red candy melts on 50% power for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until melted.
  • Scoop your melted red candy melts in a decorating bag and cut a small tip off the end.
  • Dip the end of your marshmallow pop into the melted blue candy melts, making sure to cover the top marshmallow in the melted blue candy.
  • Shake any excess candy melts off and place onto a piece of parchment paper.
  • Sprinkle some white candy pearls onto the melted blue candy melts.
  • Use your decorating bag to drizzle the red melted candy melts in stripes onto the other 2 marshmallows.
  • Carefully transfer to the freezer for 15 minutes to harden.

Easy Easter Cupcakes – Carrot Garden Cupcake

April 11, 2019 By Melissa 8 Comments
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This super cute Carrot Garden Cupcake makes perfect Easter Cupcakes. It is so simple to make with Mike & Ike candies. Plus they are delicious.

 

Looking for cute and easy Easter Cupcakes? Try these super cute Carrot Garden Easter Cupcakes. The orange Mike & Ikes with edible Easter grass decorate the cupcake and look like a garden the Easter bunny would love! Kids and adults alike will enjoy eating these cute and tasty Easter cupcake decorations. Plus they are not too hard to make. Cute and easy…the perfect combination. [Read more…]

Thin Mint Brownie Recipe – Mint Brownies

March 4, 2019 By Melissa 9 Comments
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It is girl scout cookie season and my favorite is Thin Mint girl scout cookies. I also love brownies. They are both great on their own but put them together and you get something even better…… Thin Mint Brownies!

 

[Read more…]

Valentine Easy Mocktail Recipe

February 11, 2019 By Melissa 10 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links that help support this site at no additional cost to you. Please read my disclosure page for more info.

This easy mocktail recipe makes a simple non-alcohol party drink. These are cute mocktails for kids or adults for a party or holiday such as Valentine’s Day.

Looking for an easy mocktail recipe for Valentine’s Day? This is so simple but is perfect for kids and adults and can make for a special Valentine’s meal or party. I love these cute Valentine straws that make any drink special. They come in a large pack but they don’t cost much more than a smaller pack and you can make any event just a bit more special with a fun straw.

[Read more…]
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