Artzy Foodie

Australian Meat Pie

Stack of 3 meat pies on a white plate next to a pile of mashed potatoes garnished with sprigs of parsley

An Australian meat pie is a savory, hand-held pastry, with a hearty beef filling, topped with puff pastry that is comfort food at its best! You don’t have to travel “Down Under” to enjoy this national culinary icon. Widely known as the fast food of Australia, the Australian meat pie, also known as meat pie […]

Homemade Pie Crust

White pie dish with uncooked pie crust

Every great pie starts with a great crust. This super easy homemade pie crust recipe, with a secret ingredient, makes the perfect foundation that will hold up to any pie filling. I love this recipe because it is so simple. This all-butter pie crust recipe uses only 5 ingredients and turns out perfect every time! […]

Steak Crostini with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Crostini topped with steak and a white sauce on a rectangular plate

Steak Crostini with Creamy Horseradish Sauce is the perfect two bite appetizer for entertaining your family and friends! Toasted crostini topped with a slice of tender filet mignon, a kick of spicy horseradish sauce, garnished with chopped fresh chives will have your guests coming back for more! With only 7 ingredients and 40 minutes these […]

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Spaghetti Squash Bake

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Spaghetti Squash Bake is an easy low carb casserole dish that you’re sure to love! If you’re on a low carb diet, or just cutting back on the carbs, this recipe is a must try! Spaghetti squash is a great low carb alternative to spaghetti noodles. Because it is mild flavored, […]

Peanut Butter Kiss Your Sweetheart Cookies

A pile of peanut butter kiss cookies on a white background

Peanut Butter Kiss Your Sweetheart Cookies are the perfect way to say I love you! These soft, chewy peanut butter cookies with a sweet chocolate “kiss” on top are sure to show that special someone just how much you care. There are a lot of great food combinations…peanut butter and jelly, chips and dip, macaroni […]

Skinny Chocolate Frappe

Clear coffee mug filled with chocolate frappe topped with whipped cream and a gold straw

Satisfy your caffeine craving in just 5 minutes with this Skinny Chocolate Frappe recipe. For less than 100 calories you can enjoy this delicious, guilt free beverage any time you need a little pick me up! I was recently approached by Javy Coffee to develop a recipe using their product. I love Javy Coffee! Just […]

Homemade Low Calorie Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

A clear jar of ranch dressing with a silver spoon inside

Homemade Low Calorie Buttermilk Ranch Dressing is so simple to make and tastes so much better than anything you can get from a plastic bottle at the grocery store. This creamy, tangy dressing made with nonfat greek yogurt, buttermilk, and fresh herbs can be put together in less than 10 minutes! For the BEST homemade, […]

Cauliflower Rice with Bacon and Peas

A white bowl filled with cauliflower rice, bacon, peas, parmesan cheese, and chives next to a green striped napkin

Cauliflower Rice with Bacon and Peas is a quick and easy recipe that is healthy, filling, flavorful, and satisfying and can be whipped up in no time at all! This cauliflower rice recipe, using frozen cauliflower rice, a tasty low carb substitute for white rice, is sure to become a staple in your diet. If […]

Creamy Dreamy Peanut Butter Frosting

A white bowl filled with peanut butter frosting on a blue napkin

Quick and easy Creamy Dreamy Peanut Butter Frosting, made in just 5 minutes with only 3 ingredients, is so delicious that you’ll be eating it by the spoonful! Although it is perfect for frosting chocolate cake, cupcakes, or brownies, it is hard to resist eating it right out of the bowl! This is one of […]

Spicy Chimichurri Sauce

Overhead view of a white bowl of green chimichurri sauce next to a green checked napkin

This easy recipe for the best Spicy Chimichurri Sauce will become your new favorite dressing to give a garlicky, tangy kick of flavor to your steak, chicken, fish, pork, pasta, grains, or vegetables! This simple, yet versatile sauce can be put together in less than 10 minutes. Add everything to the food processor, blend, and […]

BLT With Smashed Avocado

BLT cut in half and stacked on a white plate with a green striped napkin next to potato chips

This recipe for the ultimate BLT With Smashed Avocado is a modern twist on the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich. Made with hearty multigrain bread, peppery arugula, juicy heirloom tomatoes, and creamy smashed avocado, this sandwich has been taken to a whole new level! This is the best BLT ever!!! The heartiness of the […]

Snickerdoodle Cookies

A stack of 6 snickerdoodle cookies on a small round white plate with a clear bottle of milk with blue striped straws and a blue striped napkin in the background

These homemade, soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies with the perfect hint of cinnamon and sugar are super easy to make and can be ready in less than 30 minutes. No need to chill the dough, just mix and bake! This simple, foolproof snickerdoodle cookie recipe turns out a buttery cookie with a fluffy, pillowy texture […]

Corn on the Cob

A white plate with 3 ears of corn on the cob garnished with cilantro and cotija cheese

Sweet corn with salty cotija cheese and garlic lime butter makes the perfect side for any summer barbecue! This super easy oven baked corn on the cob is a must for your next cookout! Nothing says summer like biting into an ear of sweet, juicy corn on the cob! Grilled, boiled, steamed, baked, microwaved, however […]

One Pot Red Beans and Rice With Sausage

Over head view of a white dutch oven of red beans and rice with a wooden spoon next to a red striped napkin

Full of Cajun flavors, One Pot Red Beans and Rice With Sausage is so hearty and so comforting! Made on the stove top in a dutch oven, this easy red beans and rice recipe has only a few more steps than making rice. With just a few substitutions it can be made meatless, gluten free, […]

Rosemary, Garlic, and Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

A silver spatula lifting a smashed potato topped with cheese off a baking sheet

Easy Roasted Rosemary, Garlic, and Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are one of the most simple and most delicious side dishes ever! No need to peel the potatoes…just boil, smash, season, and roast.  These potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal! They go great with fish, chicken, steak, or even salad. Once you have the […]

Caesar Salad Sandwich

A ciabatta roll, hollowed and filled with caesar salad on a white plate next to a green striped napkin

A super delicious Caesar Salad Sandwich allows to have your salad and sandwich all in one! Caesar salad tossed in a light and tangy dressing, made without raw eggs, stuffed inside a toasted garlic ciabatta makes the perfect sandwich! There’s something amazing that happens when you put cold Caesar salad inside a warm, crispy loaf […]

Chia Pudding

Over head view of a clear jar of chia pudding topped with strawberries and blueberries

Chia pudding, loaded with antioxidants, fiber, protein, and omega-3’s is a healthy, gluten free breakfast or snack that can be prepared in just minutes. Because it will last a week in the refrigerator, it is great for meal prep! Make a large batch on Sunday and enjoy a delicious breakfast all week long! Chia seeds […]

Chili Mac

Overhead view of a white dutch oven of chili mac with a wooden spoon on a blue napkin

Chili Mac is the ultimate mash up combining two of my favorite comfort foods, macaroni and cheese and chili! The whole family is going to love this pot of cheesy, beefy goodness! This is not a box of Kraft macaroni and cheese and a can of Hormel chili mixed together, and it’s not chili with […]

Extra Skinny Margaritas by the Pitcher

Two glasses of margaritas with a slice of lime on the rim

These 4 ingredient Extra Skinny Margaritas by the Pitcher are guilt free margaritas with the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness! With less than 150 calories per serving, you can enjoy this low carb drink with no regrets!  One of my favorite cocktails is a margarita! However, you can consume a huge amount of sugar, […]

No Knead Bread

Loaf of bread with two pieces sliced

No knead bread made in a dutch oven is an easy recipe for homemade artisan bread! If you are like me and don’t like to do a lot of measuring or kneading, but love the smell and taste of homemade bread, this super simple no knead bread recipe is for you!  No knead bread, originally […]

Green Shakshuka

A spatula in a pan of baked eggs garnished with sliced jalapenos and cilantro

This Green Shakshuka is a Central American twist on a classic North African dish. Made with tomatillos, green onions, green bell peppers, jalapenos and garlic, this flavorful dish makes a healthy meal any time of the day! Shakshuka is an Arabic word translated as “mixed up” or “shaken”. This refers to the simple cooking process […]

Extra Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese

White square shaped bowl filled with mac and cheese made with curly pasta

This extra creamy stovetop mac and cheese, made in just 20 minutes without flour, is the best creamy mac and cheese recipe ever! Some like baked macaroni and cheese and some like stovetop macaroni and cheese. Either way, you’re going to love this dish!  This homemade, extra creamy mac and cheese comes together so easily. […]

The Ultimate Restaurant Style Queso Blanco

A light blue bowl of white queso with tomatoes and chopped cilantro surrounded by tortilla chips

This ultimate restaurant style queso blanco recipe, also known as white cheese dip, is simple, fast, delicious, and addictive! In just 20 minutes and with only 4 ingredients you can indulge in this Mexican cheesy goodness! This easy 4 ingredient recipe consisting of American cheese, heavy cream, a can of diced tomatoes with green chilis […]

Grilled Corn Salad

Wooden spoon in a white bowl of corn salad next to a yellow checkered napkin

This grilled corn salad is the perfect side for your summer BBQ! Made with grilled corn, bacon, peppers, black beans, queso fresco and cilantro, tossed with a creamy yet perfectly spicy dressing, every bite is a burst of flavor! Typically a salad leaves you wanting more, but not this one! This grilled corn salad delivers […]

Easy Mexican Rice

A wooden spoon inside a white bowl filled with Mexican rice next to a red striped napkin

You’re going to love this simple recipe for the best restaurant style Mexican rice. Made in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect side for all your favorite Mexican dishes! This easy Mexican rice, that is light and fluffy and loaded with flavor, will easily rival your local Mexican restaurant! With only 7 ingredients and no […]

Homemade BBQ Sauce

Clear jar of bbq sauce with spoon

This super flavorful, super easy homemade bbq sauce, made without ketchup is spicy, tangy, and sweet and can be made in one saucepan in just 30 minutes! Even though I live in Kansas City, I’ll be the first to admit that when it comes to barbecue I am clueless. Around here, people are serious about […]

Big Juicy Hamburger Made With Secret Sauce

A hamburger with lettuce, bacon, onion, tomato, pickles and cheese cut in half

Celebrate this Memorial Day or any summer holiday with a Big Juicy Hamburger Made With Secret Sauce, topped with cheddar cheese, pickles, tomato, red onion, bacon, and lettuce! It’s pretty customary to celebrate Memorial Day or any summer holiday with grilled burgers! Sometimes the most simple recipes are the best ones. This Big Juicy Hamburger […]

Sausage, Tomato, and Cheese Frittata

A tan skillet with a baked sausage, tomato, spinach, and cheese frittata

This oven baked sausage, tomato, and cheese frittata is the perfect way to start the day! Because it tastes great reheated, it’s perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and enjoy a delicious breakfast all week long! What is a Frittata A frittata is an Italian egg dish similar to an omelette or […]

Spinach Soup

A white bowl of spinach soup garnished with pecan gremolata and a spoon

This fresh and tasty, vegan spinach soup can be made in just 10 minutes, and served right out of the blender! This is a super easy recipe that will get some healthy greens into your diet.  Spinach soup is great for a hot day when you don’t want to heat up the house, or for […]

Chocolate Almond Cheesecake

Chocolate almond cheesecake

This chocolate almond cheesecake is perfect for any special occasion! It is a decadent dessert with a chocolate crust, a creamy chocolate filling, and a streusel topping. Paired with a cup of coffee, it is pure bliss! What I love about this cheesecake is the combination of chocolate and almonds. There are chocolate and almonds […]

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Chili

An overhead shot of a white dutch oven with a black ladle filled with buffalo chicken chili

This easy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Chili recipe has all of the flavors of spicy buffalo chicken wings in a neat and tidy bowl! This thick and hearty, super tasty, stovetop chili is perfect for game day! Buffalo wings are one of my favorite things to eat, but they are so messy! It’s hard to look […]

Potato Soup

Chunky, hearty potato soup, made with no roux or heavy cream, is comfort food at it’s finest! This rich, thick, and creamy soup is perfect for Fall, but can and should be enjoyed all year around! Whenever the temperatures cool down, this soup becomes a go to recipe in our house! My Mom makes the […]

Twice Baked Potatoes

A twice baked potato topped with cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, and scallions

Twice baked potatoes are the perfect side for a nice juicy steak or a moist, flaky salmon filet, however, these potatoes are so filling they can certainly be the main dish! The mixture of fluffy baked potato, melted butter, creamy sour cream, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese is mouth watering! These are my husbands […]

Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese and Bacon Croutons

White bowl of tomato soup surrounded by grilled bacon and cheese croutons

You won’t believe how easy it is to make the best homemade, creamy tomato soup with grilled cheese and bacon croutons! Have your soup and sandwich all in one! Cutting up a grilled cheese sandwich into croutons and adding them to your soup is wonderful, but putting bacon on the sandwich/croutons and adding them to […]

Spicy Dill Pickles

3 mason jars of pickles with dill and habanero peppers

These crunchy, homemade, spicy dill pickles, made with dill, garlic, and habanero peppers are super easy to make right in your own kitchen! Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to store bought! Why Make Homemade Pickles Store bought pickles are filled with artificial ingredients and preservatives, so I always have some homemade […]

Tropical Strawberry Milkshake

Mason jar filled with strawberry milkshake with 2 red striped straws

This super easy, super thick and creamy, homemade, tropical strawberry milkshake made with vanilla ice cream, fresh strawberries, and coconut milk is perfect for a hot summer day! This simple recipe requires just 5 ingredients and 20 minutes! On a hot summer day, there is nothing better than a thick, creamy milkshake. I can’t think […]

Italian Sausage Casserole

A white baking dish of Italian Sausage Casserole with two wooden spoons crossed

Four ingredient baked Italian sausage casserole is a favorite for our family for dinner! It’s fast, flavorful, easy, and delicious! With some self control, there will be enough left over for lunch tomorrow! What I Love About This Recipe It has only 4 ingredients It’s a super easy recipe It feeds a crowd It’s delicious! […]

Hash Brown Casserole

Overhead view of white baking dish filled with hash brown casserole with a spoon on top

This super easy recipe for the best creamy, cheesy hash brown casserole, also known as funeral potatoes, is great for feeding a crowd! This spin on a classic potato dish is made with frozen hash browns, but without canned soup, and without cornflakes. Why I’m Addicted to Hash Brown Casserole It will feed a crowd […]

Hearty Breakfast Burritos

A breakfast burrito with rice, peppers, sausage, eggs, and cheese cut in two

These make ahead hearty breakfast burritos are super for meal prep! If you’re wanting a healthy, filling, grab and go breakfast, you are going to love this recipe! Why i like this recipe Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, and for me, there’s nothing better than having a delicious breakfast waiting in the […]

Potato Salad

A white bowl of potato salad with a wooden spoon on a blue napkin

This classic potato salad recipe is a must for your next barbecue! This traditional potato salad with tender potatoes, hard boiled eggs, and a thick, creamy dressing with just the right amount of tang is the best potato salad ever! Every time I make this, it disappears in a flash! No family cookout or picnic […]

Smoky Beer Braised Brisket

Partially sliced brisket on a white marble cutting board and a white bowl of bbq sauce

For a really simple, really satisfying meal, you can’t go wrong with brisket. This super easy, smoky, beer braised bbq beef brisket, flavored with a delicious marinade, couldn’t be any easier! Just pop it in the oven and forget about it! What is Brisket Brisket is an inexpensive, boneless cut of beef that is quite […]

New York Style Cheesecake

A white cake stand topped with a cheesecake

This award winning New York style cheesecake is a little slice of heaven right here on earth! This cheesecake is so creamy and so decadent! You won’t believe how easy it is to make! I entered this cheesecake in a baking competition at my husband’s office, and it won the cheesecake and pie category by […]

Hummingbird Nectar

A hummingbird hovering next to a red feeder

This homemade hummingbird nectar will keep your hummingbirds healthy, happy, and coming back for more! This 2 ingredient recipe, that replicates the sucrose content of nectar producing flowers, takes just 10 minutes! When to look for hummingbirds to arrive Where I live, in the midwest, hummingbirds arrive late April to early May. In the northern US, […]

Asian Vegetables

Plate of vegetables

Asian vegetables with miso ginger sauce will not only get you to eat your veggies, but they’ll have you coming back for more! You will absolutely love these julienned vegetables coated in an Asian flavored sauce, topped with toasted sesame seeds! These stir fried vegetables make the perfect side dish for any meal! Miso ginger […]

Hot Cross Buns

White baking dish with baked hot cross buns

Not only is Hot Cross Buns a catchy tune that every elementary school student learns on the recorder, but it is also a sweet little roll that is traditionally served on Good Friday. This easy recipe for the best yeasty, hot cross buns made with chocolate chips, instead of raisins, is the perfect Easter treat! […]

Carrot Cake Cupcakes

Carrot cake cupcakes with cream cheese frosting

These homemade carrot cake cupcakes, with cream cheese frosting, are so easy to make from scratch! These moist, tender treats taste even better than they look! These cupcakes are so incredibly most and tender, and not too sweet! Paired with the cream cheese frosting, the flavors are perfectly balanced. How to make Carrot Cake Cupcakes […]

Pimento Cheese Spread

This super easy homemade pimento cheese spread, that can be made in 15 minutes, is a simple appetizer that everyone will love! If you’ve had the prepackaged pimento cheese spread from the grocery store that looks like an orange paste, then you may not be a huge fan of pimento cheese. Instead of tasting processed […]

Guatemalan Stew

White bowl of guatemalan stew served over white rice garnished with lime and cilantro

Guatemalan stew is a hearty stew with a rich and tangy tomatillo sauce. You don’t have to be from Central America to appreciate this meal! I learned this recipe many years ago for our youngest son Joshua, who is from Guatemala, but our whole family looks forward to it every time I make it. It’s […]

Homemade BBQ Beans

At your next backyard cookout or tailgate party, these homemade bbq beans are a must! These beans will easily rival your local bbq restaurant. The combination of smoky, spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors is irresistible! This recipe was inspired by the baked beans at a local bbq restaurant. They are so addictive, I wanted to […]

Mayo Free Pasta Salad

Overhead shot of white bowl of pasta salad

This mayo free pasta salad is one of my go-to recipes for a quick and easy side dish or snack. It’s a super versatile dish that is colorful, healthy, and delicious! Pasta salad is great for brunch, lunch, an afternoon snack, or a late night bite! And, because there is no mayonnaise, this dish is […]

Lobster Bisque

White bowl with bits of lobster and bisque being poured over the top

You don’t have to go to a fancy restaurant to enjoy a decadent bowl of lobster bisque. Make this rich, creamy soup right in your own kitchen. With my 3 step process, it’s easier than you think, and your wallet will agree! I love this recipe because it makes any day feel like a special occasion. […]

Fresh Fruit Salad

This fresh fruit salad with honey and lime is a healthy and easy side dish or dessert that will make any occasion special! Put this beautiful dish together in 30 minutes, with no cooking involved! Fresh fruit salad makes an elegant side dish or dessert that is light and refreshing and is great for any […]

Belgian Waffles

Belgian waffle topped with mascarpone cheese and maple syrup

These Belgian waffles, made in under 20 minutes, are the perfect brunch dish! You can make them ahead of time and put them in the oven to keep them warm, leaving you free to enjoy your company rather than spending all of your time working the waffle iron! Why I like this recipe Brunch is […]

Brûléed Potatoes

Two ramekins of bruleed potatoes

Brûléed potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, decadent, hash brown side dish that is baked and then broiled to golden perfection. This is a super easy, super impressive recipe with almost no prep at all! Why I love this recipe This is an elegant side dish that is so easy and so delicious! The only prep […]

Toasted Roasted Veggie and Brie Sandwich

Side view of 2 halves of a toasted sandwich with sweet potatoes, onions, lettuce, and cheese

This toasted roasted veggie and brie sandwich will make you forget all about the meat! Not only will you eat your veggies, but you’ll beg for more! This hearty, meat free sandwich is loaded with roasted vegetables and creamy brie cheese!  Brie Cheese I’m not going to lie, you could melt brie cheese on your […]

Firecracker Shrimp

White bowl of firecracker shrimp garnished with green onions

These firecracker shrimp are the perfect appetizer for any occasion! These crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet and spicy sauce can be on your table in 20 minutes! These firecracker shrimp are addictive! What could be better than breaded and fried shrimp, coated in a creamy sauce that is sweet and spicy, all piled […]

Homemade Caramel Sauce

jar of caramel sauce and white bowl of vanilla ice cream

Once you make this super easy homemade caramel sauce with only 4 ingredients, you’ll never buy store bought again! In about 20 minutes you can enjoy a delicious homemade caramel sauce made from ingredients that you most likely already have on hand! Why Make Caramel Sauce There’s no need to use a store bought caramel […]

Mexican Zucchini Boats

4 zucchini boats on a marble cutting board

Mexican zucchini boats are low carb, keto friendly, and gluten free! These little Mexican style treasures are quick and easy and loaded with flavor! Mexican recipes are my favorite! I like to “Mexican-ise” just about any recipe. There are tons of great zucchini boat recipes out there, but I’m partial to my Mexican version of […]

Corned Beef Hash

Large skillet of corned beef has with baked eggs next to small skillet of corned beef hash

Corned beef hash with baked eggs is a quick and easy way to satisfy your hunger after a fun day celebrating St Patrick’s Day. This is a hearty brunch dish that will use up your leftover corned beef and soak up all that green beer! WHAT IS HASH Hash is a dish consisting of chopped […]

Mushroom and Goat Cheese Pasta

White bowl of mushroom and goat cheese pasta with breadstick

Mushroom and goat cheese pasta is a flavorful pasta dish with fresh herbs, garlic, white wine, and mushrooms in a creamy goat cheese sauce. This meatless dish is sure to satisfy any carnivore! Ingredients Cremini mushrooms, also called baby bellas, meaning baby portobello mushrooms, are firmer than white button mushrooms and have a more earthy […]

Reuben Sandwich

Two halves of reuben sandwich stacked and toothpick with pickle on top

This toasted reuben sandwich is a masterpiece created from leftover St. Patrick’s Day corned beef that was made-over into the best sandwich I’ve ever eaten! What could be better than corned beef, sauerkraut, swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing sandwiched between two slices of toasted sour dough bread! CHANGING UP THE CLASSIC REUBEN SANDWICH The […]

Homemade Hot Sauce

jars of red and green hot sauce

Homemade hot sauce, made with only 5 ingredients, is super easy to make right in your own kitchen. You control the amount of sodium, the intensity of the heat, and the flavor! Recently, I took a meal to a sick friend who was on a low fat, low sodium diet. I knew he liked spice, […]

Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Sliced corned beef on marble cutting board

Nothing says St Patrick’s Day like corned beef. Celebrate with this simple but flavorful slow cooker, beer braised, corned beef recipe. Put it in the crock pot and forget about it! What is corned beef Corned beef is a beef brisket that has been marinated in water, salt (which preserves and seasons the meat), and […]

Chicken and Rice with Herbed Truffle Butter

plate of chicken and rice with lemon and herbs

Chicken and rice with herbed truffle butter is a restaurant quality meal that you can easily make right in your own kitchen! This is a really simple, flavorful recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends. Truffle Butter Truffle butter is what makes the sauce so flavorful and brings this dish to a […]

Homemade Dog Biscuits

Bowl of dog biscuits

These homemade dog biscuits have only 6 ingredients and they are super easy and super fun to make! The best part is, you know exactly what your dog is eating! My daughter and son in law recently had a liter of adorable husky puppies. For fun, I made them these homemade dog biscuits and they […]

Mise en Place

Chopped vegetables

Mise en place is a french term meaning everything in it’s place. I should know, because I took 5 years of French! The idea is to get prepped before you start cooking. This is what restaurant chefs do so that things run smoothly in the kitchen. A good mise en place will make cooking much […]

Breakfast Casserole

Breakfast casserole is a great make ahead breakfast that is super hearty! The great thing about this is that you make it the night before, and in the morning, you pop it in the oven and enjoy a cup of coffee while the oven does all of the work. This recipe will feed a huge […]

Gobbler Sandwich with a Moist Maker

Straight on view of toasted turkey sandwich next to a cranberry

The day after Thanksgiving you know there will be a ton of leftovers! One of the challenges after Thanksgiving is to find creative ways to come up with tasty meals that use up all that turkey, gravy, and cranberries you have leftover. One popular way to use up those tasty leftovers is to make a […]

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Overhead view of a red dutch oven of mashed potatoes with a wooden spoon on a fall colored napkin

This Thanksgiving, make a side dish that will steal the show! This super easy recipe for light and fluffy, homemade mashed potatoes with garlic infused heavy cream, butter, salt, and sour cream is the best! I could totally skip the turkey and pile my plate as high as the ceiling with these creamy potatoes! What […]

Turkey Gravy

A white gravy boat filled with gravy on a fall napkin

This easy, homemade turkey gravy recipe made with drippings and turkey broth is like an early Christmas present for your mashed potatoes! This is THE BEST turkey gravy recipe that delivers deep, rich flavor every time! Pour it over your mashed potatoes, your stuffing, your turkey, or even dip your dinner rolls in it. You […]

Homemade Savory Cranberry Sauce

Overhead view of a white dutch oven filled with bright red cranberry sauce on a holdiday napkin

This super easy homemade savory cranberry sauce recipe will make a great side for your Thanksgiving table. Fresh cranberries with the savory aromatics, the tartness of the citrus, and the sweetness of the honey is the perfect balance of flavors and textures that your whole family will love! I love the wiggly cranberry sauce that […]

Pumpkin Pie Creme Brûlée

Two ramekins of creme brulee next to a white pumpkin and a gold spoon

Elevate your Thanksgiving dessert from pumpkin pie to pumpkin pie creme brûlée with this easy dessert recipe. This creamy, decadent dessert is just like pumpkin pie, only without the crust. By the time you crack in to that caramelized sugar coating on the top, you will forget all about pie crust! What is Creme Brûlée […]

Tuscan Chicken for Two

Tuscan chicken is a super easy restaurant quality meal that is great for a classy date night or for entertaining your family and friends! Make this gourmet chicken dish in only 30 minutes! Why is this such a great recipe This simple chicken dinner will fool your family and friends in to thinking you’re a […]

Dark Chocolate Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting

Dark chocolate cupcakes with salted caramel frosting are so moist and delicious, I bet you can’t eat just one 😋! These miniature, hand held chocolatey bites are so rich and decadent they can’t be resisted! If you like dark chocolate, you’re going to love this recipe! The dark chocolate batter, made from scratch is super […]

Smothered Beef and Bean Burritos

A silver spatula lifting a burrito from a white baking dish of baked burritos

When you’re in the mood for Mexican, these super easy, super cheesy, smothered ground beef and bean burritos are what you’re looking for! Ready to bake in just 20 minutes! Not only do I love to eat these burritos myself, but I really like this recipe for a pot luck dinner or for taking a […]

Oven Roasted Garlic Cilantro Lime Shrimp

Oven roasted garlic cilantro lime shrimp is a really simple recipe that takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish. Not only is it easy, it delivers on flavor! Choosing the Shrimp When it comes to shrimp, there are several choices you will need to make wild caught or farm raised fresh or frozen […]

Skinny Iced Coffee

A clear coffee mug of iced coffee topped with whipped cream and a blue striped straw

This super easy, sugar free, low calorie, low carb, homemade, skinny iced coffee is the perfect way to start your day! Not only is it a great way to begin your day, but it’s also great for an afternoon pick me up! You won’t believe this tasty beverage is guilt free! Iced coffee has become […]

Spicy Mac and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is one of life’s most indulgent pleasures! This stovetop spicy mac and cheese definitely delivers in that category. This creamy, spicy bowl of deliciousness isn’t your kids macaroni and cheese! This spicy pasta dish is one of my favorites! The beauty of this spicy mac n cheese is that it comes together […]

Brunch Sandwich

Side view of a hamburger, bacon, and fried egg sandwiched between glazed doughnuts

This sinfully delicious brunch sandwich will become your new favorite brunch food! This sweet and savory combination of glazed doughnuts, fried eggs, bacon, and a hamburger patty are perfect together. Earlier in the week, my husband told me about a sandwich he had seen on tv. It was a hamburger with a doughnut for a […]

Beef Crust Pizza

Slice of beef crust pizza being removed from whole pizza

Beef crust pizza is a keto friendly, low carb, gluten free pizza! For anyone on the keto diet, a low carb diet, or a gluten free diet, this recipe is for you! This pizza crust is genius! Beef crust pizza is a deep dish style pizza without the carbs! For a leaner crust, you could […]

Spicy Queso Dip

Bowl of spicy queso dip on white plate surrounded with corn chips

This spicy queso dip, made from 4 different cheeses, is a great way to celebrate cinco de mayo! Put it in the slow cooker and let it do all the work for you! This easy spicy queso dip is a creamy cheese dip with small chunks of peppers and tomatoes, and a hint of smoke […]

Corn Salsa

White bowl of corn salsa

This sweet corn salsa recipe, similar to Chipotle’s and made in 30 minutes, is an easy fresh dip that goes great with any Mexican or Southwest dish! Corn salsa is great in soups, salads, bowls, burritos, and tacos! It also goes great with corn chips, which I like to use instead of utensils😉! The corn […]

Ice Cream Sandwiches

A stack of 3 ice cream sandwiches

This super easy homemade ice cream sandwich cookie recipe will become your new favorite summer dessert! These Ice Cream Sandwiches made from creamy Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream and buttery homemade M&M Cookies are absolutely scrumptious! Sure, you could buy store bought ice cream and cookies, but there’s nothing special about that. Homemade ice cream and […]

M&M Cookies

A stack of M&M cookies

These award winning M&M cookies are the best cookies ever! They are soft and chewy and they are sure to become your new favorite cookie! You will be surprised at how easy these fabulous cookies are to make. These are my husband Randy’s famous M&M cookies. He actually won a cookie contest with this recipe! […]

Tater Tot Casserole

White baking dish of tater tot casserole

Tater tot casserole is a simple dish that the whole family will love! This super easy, cheesy casserole made with ground beef is a real crowd pleaser. A cheesy, meaty mixture with a hint of spice, topped with crispy tater tots and more cheese is a hearty meal that is sure to become a dinner […]

Mexican Eggs Benedict

Overhead view of white plate with over easy eggs garnished with chopped cilantro

Mexican Eggs Benedict is here, and just in time for Cinco de Mayo! A crunchy tortilla, topped with spicy chorizo, sunny side up eggs, Jalapeno Hollandaise Sauce, sour cream, cilantro, and cotija cheese says fiesta to me! My favorite type of cuisine is Mexican! This is a Mexican twist on the classic eggs benedict. Instead […]

Blender Hollandaise Sauce Made 3 Ways

A white dish with 3 compartments filled with hollandaise sauce on a blue striped napkin

This fool proof, 10 minute, Blender Hollandaise Sauce Made 3 Ways results in a perfect sauce every time! With 3 different variations, this smooth and creamy sauce is the perfect topping your favorite brunch dishes, fish, or even vegetables! Every great dish has a great sauce. For steak it’s bernaise, horseradish, or chimichurri. For brisket […]

Southwestern Black Bean Salad

Overhead view of a white bowl of salad with chopped avocado, chopped tomatoes, black beans, and cilantro with two slices of lime

Southwestern black bean salad is a healthy and tasty dish that can be whipped up in no time at all! This colorful dish with a spicy honey lime dressing is fresh, hearty, and filling. It makes a great side dish, serve it with some chips as an appetizer, or add some chicken and turn it […]

Caesar Salad

A white bowl of caesar salad with croutons, parmesan cheese, a lemon slice, and a parmesan cheese crisp

Great caesar salad is super easy to make at home. The dressing is light and tangy and does not include eggs. If you’re hesitant about consuming raw eggs then you’ll absolutely love this recipe!  Interestingly enough, when Chef Caesar first served this salad, it was because his kitchen supplies had been depleted, and he was […]

Chicken and Waffle Sliders

A white plate of bite size chicken and waffle sliders topped with maple syrup butter

If you’ve ever had chicken and waffles, then you understand the genius behind this unlikely pairing. The union of sweet and savory and soft and crunchy is irresistible! These chicken and waffle sliders have been taken to a whole new level with maple syrup butter! These super easy, mini, chicken and waffle sliders with maple […]

Mexican Chorizo Chili

White bowl of chili garnished with sour cream, crunched up tortilla chips, and grated cheddar cheese

This really easy Spicy Mexican Chorizo Chili recipe is the perfect comfort food! In just 20 minutes and with only 7 ingredients, this hearty, flavor packed chili can be on your table! If you like your chili with a kick, you’re going to love this recipe! This quick and easy chili recipe will have you […]

Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad

Kale and brussels sprouts salad is a quick and easy salad that you can toss together in just 20 minutes! If you’re a salad type person, this is right up your alley. If you’re not a salad type person, you’re still going to love this! This fresh and crunchy salad will make a kale lover […]

Beef and Bean Chili

This super simple beef and bean chili recipe, with a secret ingredient, is the perfect dish to warm you up during this winter season! This thick, hearty, beefy, tangy goodness is comfort food at it’s best! This is a really simple and quick recipe that is super hearty and satisfying. With a secret ingredient and […]

Homemade Mayonnaise

Jar of homemade mayonnaise

This creamy, homemade mayonnaise can be made in less than 5 minutes! Once you try this recipe, you’ll never buy store bought again! My favorite condiment has always been mayonnaise. Recently I have been on a vegenaise kick, which is mayonnaise made without eggs. Not that I am opposed to eggs, I love eggs! I […]

Eggs in a Basket

A piece of bread with a sunny side up egg in the center, bacon, and a bowl of fresh eggs

Eggs in a basket or egg in a hole is deceptively delicious. It doesn’t look fancy, but I’d take this over steak and eggs any day! Once you try this, you’ll not only want to have this for breakfast, you’ll want to have it for every meal of the day!  My husband makes this for […]

Creamy Cauliflower

White baking dish of cauliflower casserole

This is an easy recipe for the best baked, cheesy cauliflower casserole. If you or any of your family hasn’t liked cauliflower in the past, give this recipe a try. The golden, cheesy crust and the creamy center will quickly change your mind! Creamy cauliflower is a creamy, cheesy casserole style dish that makes a […]

Learn How To Make Béchamel Sauce

Overhead shot of saucepan with bechamel, a whisk, and a sprig of thyme

Béchamel sauce is probably the most commonly used of the five French mother sauces. It’s a simple white sauce that I use all the time, and a sauce that every home cook should have in their recipe collection. This sauce is used as the base for many cheese sauces and it adds the “cream” to […]

Merry Christmas!!!

Artzy Appetizers

Merry Christmas everyone!!! May you have a blessed day celebrating the birth of Jesus with your family!

Mini Cheesecakes

A white cake plate topped with miniature cheesecake cupcakes topped with white frosting, cocoa powder, and an expresso bean

Creamy, mini cheesecakes are delicious, hand held bites that are perfect for holiday entertaining. Impress your guests with this simple yet elegant dessert! These scrumptious little bites of cheesecake are creamy and delicious, yet they are not too sweet. For me they are about 3 bites, which I think is the perfect amount of dessert. […]

November 2017 – Pinch of Yum Workshop, Minneapolis

I have NEVER in my life boarded an airplane to fly somewhere colder than Kansas City in the winter. I’m all about the sunshine and the beach on a winter vacation. I have to say…I would totally do it all over again! Yep! The Pinch of Yum Workshop would motivate me to go to Minneapolis, Minnesota, […]

Candied Carrots

A White plate of candied carrot curls

Candied carrots make a really whimsical garnish for your carrot cake or cupcakes while adding the perfect crispy texture to your dessert! This unique crunchy topping is sure to impress even your most sophisticated guests!  Candied carrots are as much fun to make as they are to eat! These candied carrot curls make a beautiful […]

Meet Boo

Meet Boo

I posted this to Instagram and the pup got way more likes than my food. By popular demand, this post is all about my super sweet dog, Boo. Boo is a toy rat terrier. Don’t go calling him a chihuahua because he does not like that! He’s very proud of his rat terrier lineage. He arrived […]

Elevated Condiments

Overhead view of 4 mason jars with different condiments

By adding extra flavors to your basic condiments, you will take your burger, bratwurst, sandwich, wrap, or dipping sauce to a whole new level! These elevated condiments will add a huge punch of flavor to your spreads and dipping sauces. We all use the same old boring condiments for our burgers, brats, sandwiches, wraps, and […]

Miso Ginger Sauce

Clear jar with ginger miso sauce

Miso ginger sauce is an Asian flavored sauce with a little bit of heat and a little bit of sweet. Put this delicious sauce together in just 15 minutes to add flavor to your fish, shrimp, chicken, pasta or vegetables! I first tasted a version of this sauce at the Bristol Seafood Grill, which is […]

Mushroom Marsala Risotto

A white plate of mushroom risotto garnished with sage next to a burnt orange napkin

Mushroom marsala risotto was inspired by marsala chicken. All the flavors of marsala chicken in a risotto! This mash up of two classic Italian dishes is creamy comfort food that is loaded with umami flavor! Serve as a side to chicken, shrimp, or sausage or serve it up as a meatless main dish. This elegant […]

Solar Eclipse 2017

Solar Eclipse 2017

August 21st, 2017 was the first total solar eclipse, where the moon completely covered the sun, in 99 years. We happened to live right in its path! Thanks to my husband’s bank, we had our handy dandy solar eclipse glasses ready. The day started out with a torrential down pour and heavy cloud cover, which […]

Creamy Leek Dip

A bowl of white dip garnished with chives and lemon zest surrounded by celery, carrots, and red pepper sticks

Creamy leek dip made with cream cheese, goat cheese and fresh herbs is a hot, tangy, dip with just a hint of spice that makes the perfect appetizer for any occasion! This dip is addictive! It can be served with chips, crackers, veggies, or anything else you can manage to dunk in there. Whether it’s […]

Greek Chicken Salad

A clear bowl of salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, and sliced chicken

Greek chicken salad, tossed in a vinaigrette dressing, is a fresh and healthy salad that is perfect when you’re looking for a light meal that will satisfy your hunger! Crisp lettuce, pungent red onions, briny kalamata olives, juicy tomatoes, fresh parsley, and salty feta cheese tossed in a simple, lemony vinaigrette is both fresh and […]

What You Need to Know Before Buying Produce

What you need to know before buying produce. Don't go to the grocery store again until you have armed yourself with this valuable information!

Don’t go to the grocery store again for produce until you have armed yourself with this valuable information! You know those little stickers, also known as PLU codes or price look up codes, that are on the produce? Those codes are not only for the clerk to ring you up, but there is a wealth […]

June 2017 – Vero Beach, FL

Vero Beach Vacation

Our family usually visits Disney’s Vero Beach Resort every summer. With moving this past year, we didn’t make it down, so we were super pumped for this trip! The resort is beautiful! It’s the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of normal life and recharge your batteries. We had a beautiful […]

Pico de Gallo

A white bowl filled with pico de gallo, a tortilla chip, and an aqua napkin

Learn how to make an easy, healthy homemade salsa with this authentic pico de gallo recipe, made in just 20 minutes! Pico de gallo is a raw salsa that is a staple in our kitchen. Don’t make the mistake of limiting pico de gallo to a chip dip. It’s also a bold, flavorful topping for […]

Strawberries and Whipped Cream

White plate with a piece of pound cake topped with whipped cream and a strawberry with a bite taken out

Strawberries and whipped cream is a 3 ingredient dessert that is simple and delicious! This tasty dessert consists of strawberries, whipped cream, and store bought pound cake. No one would ever guess that something so easy could be so scrumptious! Nothing says summer like the combination of sweet strawberries, creamy whipped cream, and buttery pound […]

Herb Garden

An elevated wood planter filled with an herb garden and 3 white pots of herbs beneath

I love having fresh herbs. They are so fragrant and they add huge flavor without adding salt or extra fat. Use these easy instructions to plant an outdoor herb garden in containers and enjoy fresh herbs all season long!  When to plant Spring is my favorite time of year. After a long, cold, dreary winter […]

Soft Scrambled Eggs with Salmon and Cream Cheese

White plate of scrambled eggs with salmon and cream cheese garnished with chopped chives

Soft scrambled eggs with salmon and cream cheese are a great start to your day! Learning how to make the perfect soft scramble will make you look at eggs in a whole new way! These soft, creamy eggs paired with salmon and cream cheese are to die for! The cooking process may test your patience, […]

Cream Cheese Filled Strawberries

Cream cheese filled strawberries on a white cake stand

These cream cheese filled strawberries are a super simple, 4 ingredient, gluten free dessert that will impress your most sophisticated guests! This tasty bite sized treat can be put together in just 15 minutes! This no-bake, hand held, dessert is perfect for your next party! Strawberries are one of my favorite fruits. Pairing them with […]

Beef Enchiladas

White baking dish filled with cooked beef enchiladas

Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with these super easy ground beef enchiladas made with homemade red sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and corn tortillas! In just 25 minutes, you can have these Mexican beef enchiladas ready to bake! No sauce from a can here! Make your very own, tailored to your taste, red enchilada sauce. Spicy or […]

How To Season a Cast Iron Skillet

An overhead view of a cast iron skillet on a wood cutting board

A cast iron skillet is a must-have in your kitchen. It can can be used on the stove top, in the oven, on the grill, or even over a camp fire. Properly seasoned, it is non-stick, and it evenly distributes and retains heat like no other type of pan. Best of all, cast iron actually […]

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter!

Have a wonderful day celebrating the risen Lord with friends and family!

Cityscape

New York, New York hotel in Las Vegas

September 2016 – Las Vegas

Our oldest son got married in Las Vegas, and even though I’m not a gambler or a night owl, I wouldn’t have missed it for the world! We took a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon! We saw both presidential candidates! We rode the roller coaster at New York, New York Hotel! And even though Elvis […]

Quinoa Salad

a white platter of salad with strawberries, goat cheese, and pecans with wooden serving spoons

This super easy quinoa salad made with arugula, strawberries, goat cheese and pecans is both sweet and savory! High in protein and fiber, this salad delivers on both nutrition and flavor! This salad is addictive! The quinoa is light and fluffy, the arugula delivers a nice peppery bite, the strawberries are sweet and juicy, the […]

Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup

With a few ingredients you already have on hand, and just 15 minutes, you can make a healthy, homemade version of condensed cream of chicken soup that is better than store bought! Condensed cream of chicken soup is a must have in your kitchen! It is the base for so many recipes. You don’t have […]

Cilantro Lime Rice

This easy recipe for Cilantro Lime Rice is better than Chipotle’s. Learn the secret to the perfect white rice, every time, without a rice cooker! Cilantro lime rice is simple and delicious and requires only five ingredients! I love the nutty, floral flavor of the rice, the freshness of the cilantro, and brightness from the […]

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

A silver ice cream scoop scooping ice cream from an ice cream machine

This old fashioned, homemade vanilla ice cream is a delicious sweet treat that is a must have summer dessert! This no cook, no egg recipe, made in a machine is so easy and so scrumptious!  With summer just around the corner, I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Once you taste this […]

September 2015 – Israel

The beginning of our adventure! In just a few short hours (ha ha, more like 15) we’ll be in Tel Aviv. We made it! Our very first breakfast.  That’s right, in Israel you eat salad for breakfast. For me, it’s a dream come true, for my husband, not so much. Two days later, when Joshua […]

Kickin Chicken Wings

A white platter with a blow of blue cheese dressing, carrots, and celery in the center, chicken wings on the edges

These oven baked kickin chicken wings are so crispy, you would never guess they weren’t fried! Now you can enjoy crispy chicken wings without the guilt! These flavorful, crispy chicken wings are simple to make and they make a great appetizer or snack for game day! They’re so tasty, you could even make a whole […]

Artichoke Crostini

A plate with 3 crostini topped with artichoke spread garnished with chopped parsley

This easy recipe for artichoke crostini makes the perfect appetizer for entertaining. These super tasty crostini are packed with flavor, they are easy to put together, and they can be made in less than 30 minutes! These are small little bites of goodness! The crostini, or the piece of bread the topping rests on, is […]

Golden Hour

The golden hour is a period shortly after sunrise or before sunset during which daylight is softer or more “golden” than when the sun is higher in the sky. This is a picture of my dog, Boo just after sunrise.

Smoked Salmon Cheese Ball

A cheese ball on a wood cutting board next to a knife with crackers in the background

Here’s to the beginning of the Christmas season! In spite of the cold weather, I love this time of year! Who doesn’t love an excuse to eat all sorts of indulgent food without any guilt? If you’re not gaining 5-10 pounds during the holidays, something is terribly wrong!!! This smoked salmon cheese ball will definitely […]

Black and White Minimalist

Minimalist photography is a style or technique that is characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity. I was shooting this building when I got lucky and a flock of birds came by.

Film Noir

Low-key lighting, where crime is the main plot, is the common thread of Film Noir. Shooting in harsh light that creates deep shadows, resulting in a high contrast of black and white is the idea here.

Silhouette

This is a silhouette taken Easter of 2015. What a beautiful sunrise!