Cheesy Garlic Butter Crackers are a quick and delicious snack that combines the savory flavors of garlic, melted cheese, and a touch of butter on top of crispy crackers. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a cozy movie night, these crackers are simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The garlic butter infuses each cracker with rich taste, while the melted cheese adds a satisfying gooey texture.

Using Ritz or any other round crackers as a base makes these bites easy and convenient, ready in minutes and guaranteed to disappear just as quickly. Customize them with parsley or paprika for added flavor and color.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple and Quick: Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal ingredients.

• Customizable Flavor: Use your preferred cheese and add spices to taste.

• Perfect Snack or Appetizer: Great for any occasion, from snacks to party treats.

Ingredients:

• 1 sleeve of Ritz or any round crackers

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Tray:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Mix the Butter and Garlic:

• In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Stir well to distribute the garlic flavor evenly.

3. Arrange the Crackers:

• Place the crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking tray, ensuring they don’t overlap.

4. Brush with Garlic Butter:

• Using a pastry brush, generously coat each cracker with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to spread the garlic evenly over each cracker.

5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:

• Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the crackers, covering them completely.

• Add a pinch of black pepper and paprika (if using) for extra flavor.

6. Bake to Perfection:

• Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 7–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool slightly.

• Garnish with chopped parsley for added color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips:

• Cheese Variations: Try using a blend of mozzarella and cheddar or Parmesan for a unique flavor.

• Extra Garlic Flavor: Add a dash of garlic powder to the butter mixture for an even stronger garlic taste.

• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of marinara or ranch dip for extra deliciousness.

Storage Options:

• Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes if desired.

These Cheesy Garlic Butter Crackers are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!

Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort breakfast dish, perfect for feeding a crowd during weekend brunches, holidays, or family gatherings. This hearty casserole combines layers of seasoned hash browns, flavorful sausage, colorful vegetables, and plenty of melted sharp cheddar cheese, all bound together by a perfectly spiced egg mixture. The addition of green onions and herbs like marjoram and thyme infuses the dish with subtle, aromatic flavors that make each bite irresistible.

This make-ahead-friendly casserole is easy to prepare and can be assembled the night before, allowing you to simply bake and enjoy a warm, filling breakfast in the morning. Serve it with fresh fruit, toast, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Satisfying and Hearty: Loaded with sausage, cheese, and hash browns for a filling meal.

• Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for brunches, potlucks, or breakfast-for-dinner nights.

• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble in advance and bake the next morning.

Ingredients:

• 30 ounces shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed

• 1 lb ground pork sausage (e.g., Jimmy Dean’s All Natural)

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• ½ cup butter, melted

• 10 eggs

• 1 cup milk

• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 3 green onions, thinly sliced (divided)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick baking spray.

2. Prepare the Hash Browns:

• Place the thawed hash browns in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.

3. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground pork sausage. When the sausage is about halfway browned, add the diced onions and red bell pepper.

• Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned and the onions are softened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

4. Assemble the Base:

• Pour the melted butter over the hash browns, stirring gently to coat them. Sprinkle half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the hash browns.

• Spoon the cooled sausage and vegetable mixture evenly over the hash browns.

5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:

• In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add the milk, marjoram, thyme, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.

• Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash browns and sausage layer.

6. Add Cheese and Green Onions:

• Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and half of the sliced green onions.

7. Bake:

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the center is set and does not jiggle.

• Sprinkle the remaining green onions on top.

8. Serve:

• Let the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• Customizable Ingredients: Swap the ground sausage for bacon or diced ham for a different twist. Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed in the morning.

• Cheese Options: Try a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

• Freezer: Freeze the baked casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Enjoy this Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole as a warm, savory way to start your day or to share with family and friends. The rich flavors and simple preparation make it a winning recipe for any breakfast or brunch gathering!

California Spaghetti Salad is a vibrant, colorful dish that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side to your summer meals. Packed with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and bell peppers, this salad is as nutritious as it is flavorful. The addition of an Italian dressing, seasoned with Parmesan and spices, ties the dish together with a zesty, tangy taste.

This salad is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you need a quick yet satisfying dish. Kids and adults alike will love the crunch and color of the fresh vegetables combined with perfectly cooked spaghetti, all brought together with a bold, seasoned dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Refreshing and Flavorful: A perfect blend of fresh vegetables, pasta, and a zesty dressing.

• Easy to Make Ahead: Great for meal prep as the flavors deepen when chilled.

• Colorful and Nutritious: A healthy way to add vegetables to your meal with an eye-catching presentation.

Ingredients:

• 400-500 grams of spaghetti

• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cucumber, diced

• 2 zucchini, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 red onion, diced

• 1 can sliced black olives, drained

For the Dressing:

• 1 bottle (about 8-12 oz) of Italian dressing

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon celery seeds

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

How To Make California Spaghetti Salad:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

• Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse in cold water to cool the pasta and prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, green and red bell peppers, diced red onion, cucumber, and drained black olives.

3. Make the Dressing:

• In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, celery seeds, and garlic powder until well combined.

4. Combine Ingredients:

• Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl of chopped vegetables and olives. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables.

5. Toss and Chill:

• Toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serve:

• Serve the salad cold, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Tips:

• Customizable Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or broccoli for more color and texture.

• Make it Vegan: Use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or skip it altogether for a vegan-friendly version.

• Extra Flavor: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright, tangy kick.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

• Make-Ahead Tip: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop in the refrigerator.

Enjoy this easy and vibrant California Spaghetti Salad for a nutritious and satisfying meal that will brighten up any gathering!

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a classic seafood dish known for its tender shrimp enveloped in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. Infused with the subtle flavors of white wine and fresh lemon, this scampi is simple to make but tastes like an upscale restaurant meal. The combination of Italian seasoning, parsley, and Parmesan cheese elevates this dish, making it perfect for a special dinner or a quick weeknight treat.

Whether served over pasta, rice, or paired with crusty bread for dipping, this shrimp scampi is sure to impress with its zesty, buttery goodness. Each bite offers a perfect balance of fresh shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a tangy hint of lemon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: Takes less than 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish.

• Bursting with Flavor: A perfect blend of garlic, wine, and lemon makes the dish fresh and tangy.

• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over pasta, rice, or with warm bread to soak up the sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 1/2 cups white wine (or chicken broth)

• 1/2 lemon, juiced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Shrimp:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic.

• Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

3. Add the Wine and Lemon:

• Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice.

• Bring to a boil and let the liquid reduce by half to concentrate the flavors.

4. Incorporate the Butter and Seasoning:

• Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the butter until melted.

• Add the Italian seasoning and stir until fully combined.

5. Combine with Shrimp:

• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss in the sauce to coat.

• Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

• Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips:

• White Wine Selection: Use a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the best flavor.

• Garlic Control: Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference for a milder or more intense flavor.

• Butter Substitute: For a healthier option, use half butter and half olive oil.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Enjoy this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi as a flavorful, comforting dish that captures the essence of a seafood restaurant favorite, perfect for any occasion!

Cabbage Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that is perfect for warming up on chilly days. With its blend of ground beef, sausage, vegetables, and a mix of aromatic herbs, this soup is rich in both taste and nutrition. The combination of cabbage, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a hint of brown sugar creates a balanced flavor profile that’s slightly sweet, smoky, and deeply savory.

This soup is simple to make and can be prepared in one pot, making cleanup easy and convenient. Whether served as a main course or as a starter, Cabbage Soup is satisfying and packed with nutrients, perfect for feeding a hungry family or for meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Full of Flavor: A mix of ground beef, sausage, herbs, and vegetables creates a robust and comforting taste.

• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with meat and veggies, this soup is a complete meal on its own.

• Easy One-Pot Meal: Simple preparation with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb. ground beef

• 1/2 lb. ground sausage (mild or spicy)

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram (or oregano)

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 2 bay leaves

• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth (or vegetable/chicken broth)

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped

• 4-5 cups chopped cabbage

• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

• 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brown the Meat and Sauté the Onion:

• In a large Dutch oven or heavy stockpot, brown the ground beef and sausage over medium heat. About halfway through, add the chopped onions and continue to cook until the onions are soft and the meat is browned.

2. Add Aromatics:

• Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic, marjoram, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Stir constantly and cook for about 1 minute to release the flavors of the herbs and spices.

3. Combine Ingredients:

• Pour in the beef broth, and add the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, carrots, cabbage, tomato sauce, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

4. Simmer the Soup:

• Increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 30 minutes or until the carrots and cabbage are tender.

5. Finish and Serve:

• Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed.

• Garnish with red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, or fresh basil before serving.

Tips:

• Customizable Spiciness: Use spicy sausage or add extra red pepper flakes if you prefer a kick of heat.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.

• Cabbage Choice: Savoy or green cabbage works best for this recipe, but you can use Napa cabbage for a milder flavor.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

This Cabbage Soup is a cozy, flavorful meal that is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Creamy Mushroom Soup is a rich and hearty dish that brings the earthy flavors of mushrooms together with fresh herbs and a hint of wine for depth. The smooth, velvety texture and aromatic blend of thyme and garlic make it perfect for chilly days or as an impressive starter for dinner parties. This recipe uses a mix of butter, cream, and broth to create a luxurious base, complemented by the tender bite of sautéed mushrooms.

Making this soup from scratch is both simple and rewarding. The result is a satisfying, restaurant-quality dish that pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad. Enjoy the warm, savory flavors that make this Creamy Mushroom Soup an enduring favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of Marsala wine and thyme brings depth and warmth to the soup.

• Luxuriously Creamy: Heavy cream or half-and-half adds a rich texture that enhances the mushrooms.

• Comfort Food: A cozy dish perfect for warming up on a cold day.

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 2 onions, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 ½ pounds fresh brown mushrooms, sliced

• 4 teaspoons chopped thyme, divided

• ½ cup Marsala wine (or any dry red or white wine)

• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock

• 1-2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)

• ½-1 teaspoon black pepper, cracked (adjust to taste)

• 2 beef bouillon cubes, crumbled

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (substitute with evaporated milk if desired)

• ½ tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)

• ½ tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

• Heat the butter and oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until melted.

• Add the diced onions and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, or until softened.

• Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Cook the Mushrooms:

• Add the sliced mushrooms and 2 teaspoons of chopped thyme to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their moisture and begin to brown.

• Pour in the Marsala wine and cook for 3 minutes, letting the alcohol evaporate and the flavors meld.

3. Thicken the Soup:

• Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms, mixing well to coat. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

• Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer:

• Reduce the heat to low-medium and season the soup with salt, cracked black pepper, and crumbled bouillon cubes.

• Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens.

5. Finish with Cream:

• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Allow the soup to gently simmer without boiling. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve:

• Stir in the fresh parsley and remaining chopped thyme. Serve the soup warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Tips:

• Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with an equal amount of extra chicken broth or stock.

• Make It Vegetarian: Replace chicken broth with vegetable stock and omit the beef bouillon cubes for a vegetarian version.

• Consistency Adjustments: For a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the cream.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on low heat.

This Creamy Mushroom Soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, providing warmth and comfort with each spoonful. Serve it as a starter or enjoy it as a main dish for a cozy night in.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re looking for a simple, yet satisfying meal. The combination of a creamy Parmesan topping, seasoned with garlic and black pepper, creates a rich, golden crust that keeps the chicken juicy and tender. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together quickly and is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

Using either mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt as a base adds moisture and helps infuse the chicken with flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete, hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this a great go-to dinner.

• Rich and Flavorful: The Parmesan and garlic topping creates a delicious crust that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.

• Moist and Tender: The coating locks in moisture, ensuring juicy chicken every time.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp seasoning salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with non-stick spray or oil.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

• If the chicken breasts are thick, lightly pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.

3. Make the Coating:

• In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, seasoning salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.

4. Coat the Chicken:

• Spread the mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, coating them well.

5. Bake:

• Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.

• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Optionally, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to create a crispier, golden top.

6. Rest and Serve:

• Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute.

• Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Tips:

• Even Cooking: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures consistent cooking and prevents dry spots.

• Cheese Choice: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a more robust flavor.

• Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving for a touch of freshness.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chicken is the perfect balance of easy preparation and rich, comforting flavors. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to become a staple in your home.

Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is a beloved dish steeped in tradition, offering the perfect side for holiday meals or cozy gatherings. With its rich, savory flavors and moist texture, this dressing is reminiscent of classic Southern recipes passed down through generations. The cornbread base, combined with sautéed onions and celery, creates a deliciously tender dressing that pairs beautifully with roast turkey or chicken.

The addition of sage infuses the dish with a warm, earthy note that truly embodies the essence of comfort food. This dressing is simple to make yet full of flavor, making it an ideal side dish for any festive occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Classic Southern Comfort: The combination of cornbread, sage, and chicken stock is a nostalgic nod to traditional Southern cuisine.

• Easy Preparation: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an approachable recipe for cooks of all skill levels.

• Perfect Holiday Side: Complements turkey, chicken, or even pork, making it a versatile side dish for festive meals.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups crumbled cornbread

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 small onion, diced

• ½ cup chopped celery

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 2 cups chicken stock

• 1 tablespoon dried sage (or more, to taste)

• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

How To Make Mama’s Cornbread Dressing:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 7×11-inch baking dish and set it aside.

• Place the crumbled cornbread in a large mixing bowl.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

• Add the diced onion and chopped celery, sautéing for 5 to 7 minutes until soft and translucent.

3. Combine the Ingredients:

• Add the sautéed onion and celery to the bowl with the crumbled cornbread.

• Stir in the chicken stock, beaten eggs, and dried sage. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

• Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is evenly moistened.

4. Bake:

• Pour the cornbread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the dressing just starts to turn golden brown around the edges.

5. Serve:

• Let the dressing cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this classic dish alongside your favorite main course.

Tips:

• Cornbread Prep: Use homemade cornbread for the best flavor, but store-bought will work in a pinch.

• Sage Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sage according to your taste. Fresh sage can also be used for a more robust flavor.

• Texture Variation: For a moister dressing, add an extra splash of chicken stock before baking.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is sure to bring warmth and tradition to your table, making every bite a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked holiday meals. Enjoy this flavorful side with your favorite entrees for a truly comforting feast.

Crumb Cake is a classic dessert that strikes the perfect balance between a moist, tender cake base and a buttery, cinnamon-scented crumb topping. This cake is the perfect companion to a warm cup of coffee or tea and is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. The dense crumb layer adds a delightful crunch and sweetness, making every bite irresistibly good.

This recipe is simple yet indulgent, combining pantry staples to create a rich and comforting treat. The addition of sour cream keeps the cake moist and flavorful, while the crumb topping is generously piled on for that bakery-style look and taste. Dusting the cake with powdered sugar before serving adds an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Generous Crumb Topping: Thick, buttery crumbs provide a satisfying crunch with each bite.

• Moist and Tender Cake Base: The sour cream ensures a moist and flavorful cake.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert.

Ingredients:

Crumb Topping:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups light brown sugar, packed

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cake:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs, at room temperature

• 1 cup full-fat sour cream

• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.

2. Make the Crumb Topping:

• In a medium bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt using a fork.

• Drizzle the melted butter over the mixture and stir with a fork until crumbly. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients for the Cake:

• In another medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• Using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on high speed until creamy and smooth.

• Reduce the speed to low and add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.

• Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until just incorporated.

5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• With the mixer on low, gradually add the flour mixture in three intervals, mixing just until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and the beater as needed.

6. Assemble the Cake:

• Spoon the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it with an offset spatula.

• Evenly sprinkle the prepared crumb topping over the cake batter.

7. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.

8. Cool and Serve:

• Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing.

• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a touch of added sweetness.

Tips:

• Crumb Topping Texture: Be careful not to overmix the crumb topping; you want it to stay in chunks for that classic crumb cake texture.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs and sour cream are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and a smooth batter.

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Storage Options:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerator: For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.

• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy this homemade Crumb Cake with a hot beverage for a perfect, cozy treat that brings the bakery to your kitchen!

Chicken with Garlic Mushroom Sauce is an elegant yet comforting dish that showcases tender, golden chicken breast smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and mushrooms creates an aromatic and flavorful sauce that transforms simple chicken into a dish fit for a special dinner. Whether served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or alongside steamed vegetables, this dish is sure to impress.

The preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners when you want something more refined. The sauce is deeply savory with a touch of nuttiness from the Parmesan and earthy richness from the mushrooms, balancing perfectly with the seasoned chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of garlic, mushrooms, and Parmesan creates a decadent and flavorful sauce.

• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps that yield an impressive result.

• Versatile Pairings: Perfect with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, halved lengthwise

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Mushroom Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preparation of Chicken:

• In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Coat each chicken breast evenly with the flour mixture, ensuring complete coverage on all sides.

2. Cooking the Chicken:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until hot but not smoking.

• Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side, or until golden and slightly crisp.

• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

3. Sauce Preparation:

• In the same skillet, add an additional tablespoon each of olive oil and butter.

• Add the sliced mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until the mushrooms are golden brown and have released their moisture.

4. Developing the Sauce:

• Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Deglaze the skillet with the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

• Pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly before stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese.

• Adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Final Assembly:

• Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.

• Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure it is well coated.

• Continue to cook on low heat for a few more minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.

6. Presentation:

• Serve the chicken immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.

• Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or serve over a bed of pasta to complement the creamy sauce.

Tips:

• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan before adding the chicken broth for an added depth of flavor.

• Mushroom Variety: Substitute or mix in different mushrooms, like button or shiitake, for a varied taste.

• Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer before adding the chicken back in.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

• Freezer: Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy this Chicken with Garlic Mushroom Sauce as a luxurious, flavor-packed meal that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve.