Crockpot Sausage, Peppers & Onions

This time of the year is the best for crockpot dinners & this dish serves up all the cozy & simplicity you could want! Dump all the ingredients in and let the crockpot do the work while you’re on the go. Check out the full recipe below & enjoy!

Ingredients:
1-3 lbs. Sweet Italian Sausage
3-4 Bell Peppers, sliced
1 Large Yellow Onion, sliced
1 15 oz. can Tomato Sauce
1 cup of water
Italian Seasoning
Salt & Pepper

Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to crockpot and stir.
2. Cook on High for 6 hours, or on Low for 8 hours.
3. Serve on a long sandwich roll alongside coleslaw, or slice sausage & serve over pasta.

Gametime Coleslaw

Football is back this week & with that comes all the yummy game-time food! This quick & easy coleslaw is the perfect topping for BBQ sandwiches, or can be a delicious side for game-time favorites like wings & ribs. It is a simple recipe, but super flavorful! Check out the recipe below.

Mini Heart Pizzas

Treat the little ones to this special Valentine’s Day surprise, heart pizzas! The easiest lunch, after-school snack or dinner recipe that they’ll be sure to love.

Roll out your favorite store-bought pizza dough and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to create your mini pizza doughs.

Pre-bake heart-shaped pizza doughs at 400 degrees for 8 minutes and then add on the sauce, cheese and any extra toppings.

Bake again for 6-10 minutes until crust is golden and then dig in!

Heart-shaped pizzas aren’t just for the kiddos, enjoy them yourself or with your Valentine!

Heart Cinnamon Rolls

I love using store-bought cinnamon rolls to create an easy, memorable breakfast treat for each holiday. So, for Valentine’s Day, of course, we have to make hearts!

Using your favorite store-bought cinnamon rolls, lay out each roll onto a baking sheet, unravel, and shape into hearts.

Add a dot of red food coloring to the icing and lather onto each cooked cinnamon roll. Top with festive sprinkles & enjoy!

Hugs & Kisses Pretzel Bites

Like a chocolate covered pretzel, but much easier to make! These treats are perfect for baking with the kiddos. Let their tiny hands unwrap each Hershey Kiss and add on top of a pretzel. Bake at 175 degrees for 3 minutes. Remove from the oven and push a M&M down in the center of each bite. Let them cool on a rack before enjoying.

Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies

This cookie could not be any easier to make! Mix together 1 box of strawberry cake mix, 1/2 cup of oil and 2 eggs. Add some festive sprinkles into the batter and roll into 1-inch round balls. Top with some more festive sprinkles and bake for 10-14 minutes at 350 degrees. These cookies will be the perfect sweet treat for your very special Valentine!

Cheesecake-Filled Strawberries

Don’t get me wrong…I love a chocolate covered strawberry, BUT have you ever had a cheesecake-filled strawberry? Game changer!

They couldn’t be easier to make either, which is why I love them even more. All you do is core a strawberry - in the Valentine’s Day theme, I made mine look like hearts. Then you fill them with store-bought cheesecake filling (yup, they make that!) using a sandwich bag with the tip cut off. Top with crushed graham cracker and take a bite!

Cupid Chow

Just like the popular “puppy chow” recipe, but Valentine’s Day! Melt together 1 cup chocolate chips, 1/2 cup peanut butter and 1/4 cup butter until smooth. Add in 1 tsp vanilla extract and pour mixture over 9 cups of Chew cereal. Shake until cereal is covered, then add in 2 cups of powdered sugar. Shake again until well covered and add in festive M&Ms and sprinkles. Store in an airtight container and ENJOY!

Cheeseburger Sliders

With the Super Bowl right around the corner, I’m already planning out which snacks we’ll be enjoying during the big game. These sliders are a recent favorite of mine - they are so yummy & easy to make!

Brown 1 lb. of ground meat & season with salt, pepper, garlic and onion powders. Slice a 12 or 24 pack sheet of @kingshawaiian slider rolls in half and separate.

On the bottom half spread on some mayonnaise and top with a layer of sliced cheese, cooked ground meat and one pickle chip per roll. Add one more layer of sliced cheese on top of the pickles.

On the top half of the slider rolls, spread on some ketchup and then close the slider rolls. Brush 1 tbsp. of melted butter on top of the rolls and sprinkle on everything seasoning.

Bake at 350 degrees for 13 minutes. Slice the slider rolls and enjoy immediately!

Feel free to customize as you’d like with different meats, cheese and toppings.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Get ready for the big game with this easy & delicious recipe. In my opinion, it’s a MUST for Super Bowl Sunday!

To make, heat up a 1/2 cup of wing sauce (not hot sauce). Add in 1 block of cubed cream cheese, 1 cup of ranch dressing and a 1/2 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until melted and combined. Fold in 2 pre-cooked and shredded chicken breasts. Add dip mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle extra cheese on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes until hot and bubbly. You can also transfer dip mixture to a crock pot to easily keep warm during the game. Serve with your favorite snacks like celery, carrots, chips & crackers.

Football Ice Cream Sandwiches

Need a last-minute Super Bowl snack? Pick up a pack of ice cream sandwiches and white icing for a fun & easy gametime treat!

Unwrap ice cream sandwiches and draw on “football laces” with white icing. Serve immediately or store in the freezer until it’s time to enjoy!

Homemade Pizza Rolls

With school already starting in some parts of the country, I thought it’d be the perfect time to share this easy & delicious after school snack idea! Homemade Pizza Rolls could not be more simple - divide crescent dough triangles and layer on slices of pepperoni & half of a mozzarella string cheese. Roll up tightly and sprinkle with Italian seasonings on a baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes and serve with marinara sauce for dipping to those hungry little bellies!

If school isn’t starting in your area yet, be sure to save this yummy recipe somewhere safe!

Pulled Pork Pastry Puffs

A yummy finger food snack to make for the big game, parties or even lunch! Pulled pork is a favorite in our home - combine it with cheese and puff pastry & we’ve got a winning recipe!

How to make:
• mix 3/4 pound pulled pork with 3/4 cup BBQ sauce
• spread out puff pastry sheet on a floured surface and cut into 9 squares
• add pulled pork and shredded cheese to each square and fold on a diagonal, pressing to seal
• brush each with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water) and add to a parchment paper lined baking sheet
• bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, or until golden brown
• sprinkle with fresh parsley & enjoy!

Slow Cooker Chili

The cooler weather has arrived so it was only fitting to make one of my favorite cozy meals over the weekend - slow cooker chili! An easy dump & bake all day recipe perfect for this time of year!

- 1-1.5 lbs ground meat (I used turkey)
- 15oz can of light red kidney beans (drained)
- 15oz can of black beans (drained)
- 15oz can of petite diced tomatoes w/ juice
- 15oz can of tomato sauce
- 1 chili seasoning packet (I used McCormicks Organic packet)
- 1/4 cup of water

1. Cook ground meat until browned.
2. Add meat and all ingredients to slow cooker. Mix until well combined.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours.
4. Top with cheese, green onions & sour cream. Serve with warm tortilla chips.

BBQ Chicken Nachos

I’ve got a delicious recipe for your football-watching tummies - Sheet Pan BBQ Nachos!

• mix 2 cups of shredded chicken (I used a rotisserie chicken for convenience!) with 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
• spread out tortilla chips on a sheet pan and top with:
🍗 BBQ Chicken
🧅 Chopped Red Onion
🧀 Shredded Cheddar Cheese
🌶️ White Queso
🟤 Drizzle of BBQ Sauce
• bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes until cheese is melted, then top with green onions or cilantro. Enjoy!

Fresh Green Bean Casserole

Yum! One of my favorite holiday side dishes, Fresh Green Bean Casserole! Delicious, creamy & so easy to make - screenshot this full recipe at the end of the reel below & save for your holiday festivities.

Chicken & Broccoli Casserole

A family favorite & our go-to cozy season meal, Chicken & Broccoli Casserole! Easy, creamy & delicious, what more could you ask for?

What you need:
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 bags of frozen broccoli or 2 heads of fresh broccoli
- 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup (can use cream of chicken too!
- shredded cheese

Cook chicken pieces in a lightly-oiled pan, season with salt & pepper. Once chicken is no longer pink on the outside, add in broccoli and cook together until broccoli softens slightly. Add in cream of mushroom soup and mix together. Season with salt & pepper. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle on shredded cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. I usually broil for the last 5 minutes to brown the cheese a bit. Serve over top rice or egg noodles & enjoy!

Chicken Tortellini Soup

Welcome Souptember! This chicken and tortellini soup recipe is so easy & delicious, and is sure to cozy you up on the upcoming cool Fall days!

• sauté half of a chopped onion in 1 tbsp of olive oil until soft
• add 3 sticks each of chopped celery & carrots, 2 cloves of minced garlic & Italian seasoning, cook for a few minutes
• pour in 8 cups of chicken broth & bring to a boil, reduce heat and cook for about 10 minutes until veggies soften
• mix in 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken (I used a rotisserie chicken for convenience!) and 18 oz of refrigerated cheese tortellini, cook until tortellini is cooked
• season with salt & pepper and garnish with fresh parsley, serve immediately & enjoy!

Cozy Winter Salad

I’m always looking for ways to switch up my lunches & make salads more “exciting” to eat. This combo is one of my favorites and makes for one easy, cozy & delicious Winter salad.

What’s inside: Mixed Greens, Anjou Pear, Dried Cranberries, Walnuts & Crumbled Bleu Cheese. Dressing is a mix of 6 tbsp white wine vinegar, 2 tbsp dijon mustard, 1/2 cup olive oil, salt & pepper. Enjoy!

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

After you carve your Jack O’Lantern 🎃, don’t throw away those seeds…roast them! I follow this easy recipe each year for delicious homemade pumpkin seeds.

• Scoop out your pumpkin seeds & give them a good rinse, separating out any pumpkin pieces
• Lay them out on a dish towel and dry well
• Add to a baking sheet & season with sea salt, paprika, garlic powder & black pepper, toss in a little bit of olive oil
• Roast at 350 degrees for 30 minutes & dig in!

Witch Hats & Brooms

These adorable Halloween treats are inspired by my favorite witches and are so easy to make! Perfect for a Halloween movie night or party, and the best part…they are no bake!

Witch Hats: Halloween Oreo with a dot of frosting on top, push down a Hershey kiss & add festive sprinkles to finish.

Witch Brooms: Mini Reese’s with a pretzel stick pushed down the center.

No special tricks or spells, these treats are just that easy! Enjoy them & have a witchy, good time!

Mini Pumpkin Pie Rolls

Craving a taste of Fall? You’ve got to try these mini pumpkin pie rolls! Made with homemade pumpkin pie filling & crescent dough, these are so easy to make and done in minutes.

• combine 1/2 cup of pumpkin purée, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tbsp white sugar, 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract & 1 egg yolk. Stir to make your filling
• roll out & separate crescent dough, cutting each crescent roll in half vertically (a pizza slicer helps make a clean cut!)
• spread about 1 tbsp of pumpkin pie filling onto each cut crescent dough and roll up, starting with the largest end of the dough
• bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes until golden brown, sprinkle with powdered sugar & enjoy!

(2) Apple Cider Drinks

Where are my apple cider fans at?! I love picking up some fresh apple cider during our annual Fall farm visit & today I’m sharing two ways to enjoy this seasonal classic.

Hot: Creamy Caramel Apple Cider
🍎 2 cups apple cider
🍎 1/4 caramel sauce
🍎 1 tbsp heavy cream
Heat cider & caramel sauce on stovetop until hot. Remove from heat & stir in heavy cream. Top with whipped cream & caramel sauce drizzle!

Cold: Apple Cider Punch
🍎 3 shots apple cider
🍎 1/2 shot orange juice
🍎 1 shot clear rum
🍎 top with ginger ale
Combine all ingredients & add fresh fruit.

Caramel Apple Bites

Caramel apples, but make them bite sized! Need I say more? 🍎

Chop up your favorite type of apple into small, bite sized pieces and set aside. Lay out pretzels on a baking sheet (I used square pretzels) and top with Rolo candies. Bake at 250 degrees for 2 minutes until chocolate starts to melt. Insert a toothpick into apple pieces and slowly press down onto treats. Let cool & dig right in!

Such a fun and different way to enjoy this fall favorite treat!

Cinnamon Roll Apples

Treat your little one to a fun First Day of School treat with this easy breakfast idea! Pick up a pack of cinnamon rolls from the grocery store & bake according to the directions. Add a couple drops of red food coloring to the icing included & stir it up. Slather the icing onto your warm cinnamon rolls just out of the oven & garnish with a pretzel stick & a herb.

Pencil Cookies

These pencil cookies are a cute & easy way to celebrate the new school year with the little ones! Add them to school lunches or enjoy together after school while hearing all about their first day. To make, cut a point on one end of a vanilla wafer cookie. Divide a container of your favorite vanilla icing in half, adding red food dye to one half until you get a perfect pink. Add pink icing to flat end of wafer cookie and white icing to the pointed half. Top the pointed end with a mini chocolate chip and enjoy!

Lemon Blueberry Bread

Let’s bake Lemon Blueberry Bread! 🍋🫐
This bread recipe is so light & fluffy and includes all the classic Summertime flavors you’d want in a treat. My favorite part is the glaze on top that pulls together all the yumminess. Visit the link below to screenshot the full recipe card to try it out for yourself!

Banana Snicker Bites

Now let’s be real, they aren’t Snickers…but they are a yummy, healthy alternative to the delicious treat, and certainly satisfy this sweet tooth!

Slice bananas in half, and in half again. Drizzle with melted peanut butter & chocolate, and then top with peanuts. Enjoy right away or freeze for a tasty frozen treat!

Air Fryer Oreos

My go-to snack pick on the boardwalk or at a carnival is always fried Oreos - the warm dough and melted Oreo inside, yum! Now thanks to my air fryer, I’ve figured out how to easily (& way less messy) make them at home. All you do is whip up some pancake batter & coat the Oreos. Cook them a spray-coated air fryer at 390 degrees for about 4-6 minutes until golden brown. Sprinkle with powder sugar & enjoy while still warm!

4th of July Fruit Skewers

Whether you’re hosting a picnic or attending one, these refreshing fruit skewers make the perfect treat for your holiday festivities. Use a cookie cutter to make star-shaped watermelon bites and add to a wooden skewer along with blueberries. Easy grab & go and fun to eat!

4th of July Cupcakes

Fancy up some white cake batter for a festive holiday treat! Divide white cake batter into thirds, adding red food coloring to 1/3 and blue food coloring to another 1/3, (leaving 1/3 white). Layer batter into cupcake wrappers with blue on the bottom, white in the center & red on top. Bake according to recipe and let cool. Top with white icing, patriotic sprinkles and a slice of peel apart licorice for a firecracker effect. Enjoy!

Mini Ice Cream Pies

These Mini Ice Cream Pies are the perfect treats for your Memorial Day weekend or upcoming Summer picnics - everyone gets their own ice cream pie!

Add semi-melted ice cream to mini pie crusts & pop back in the fridge to harden. Now it’s time to add the good stuff! Top with chocolate syrup, whipped cream & festive sprinkles. Don’t forget the cherry on top! Serve immediately or store in the freezer until it’s time to enjoy!

This is such a fun & easy treat to customize - pick & choose ice cream flavors and your favorite toppings, and decorate for all the different holidays! Yum!

Red, White & Blue Drink

Love the patriotic colors this time of year & this drink is the perfect way to incorporate them into your MDW or Summertime gatherings! There’s a couple ways to make this, but all involve some festive & fun ice cubes! Use red & blue Gatorade or Hawaiian Punch to freeze ice cubes. Once frozen, pop them in a class and pour Sprite or sparkling water on top. Adults, feel free to throw in a splash of your favorite vodka or clear rum, and enjoy!

Americana Snack Mix

A fun & festive snack mix for all the patriotic Summer holidays! Toss together Golden Grahams Cereal, Pretzel Sticks, Mini Marshmallows and Red, White & Blue M&Ms (I used peanut butter ones)! The perfect mix of salty & sweet flavors and reminds me of a deconstructed s’more - great for Summertime!

Red, White & Blue Snack Board

Add some festive food fun to your Summer festivities with a Red, White & Blue snack board!

Ice Cream Sandwich Pops

Why does everything taste better on a stick? A simple & fun way to upgrade an ice cream sandwich - just cut one in half, insert a popsicle stick and dip the sides in festive sprinkles!

Mini Cheese Boards

Cheese board for one, please! “Wow” your family & friends with their own mini cheese boards. Add crackers, sliced meats & cheeses, plus some olives for the perfect get together appetizer. Best part, your guests won’t have to share!

Boozy Popsicles

Boozy Popsicles are the perfect “adults only” treat for those warm Summer days! They are super easy to make & can be customized to include your favorite seasonal flavors. I kept our first batch simple with a classic combo, Strawberry Lemonade! 🍓🍋

To make: Add fresh sliced strawberries to a popsicle mold. In a pitcher, stir together 1 1/2 cups of lemonade and 2 oz. of vodka. Pour over the sliced strawberries and pop in the freezer for at least 10 hours. Enjoy!

Layered Yogurt Parfait

This layered yogurt parfait is an easy-to-prepare breakfast idea, even the kiddos can help make! Alternate layers of Greek yogurt, strawberries, blueberries & granola. Enjoy!

My Favorite Chicken Salad!

Chicken salad is one of my all-time favorite lunches, and it’s also the perfect lunch option to take along on a picnic. Make ahead, pack & go! Sharing my “go-to” quick and easy version with you below:

• shredded chicken (I usually start with a rotisserie chicken)
• mayo or greek yogurt (about 1 cup to get the consistency I prefer)
• 1-2 stalks celery, diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds
• salt & pepper
• serve on croissants, your favorite bread, or by itself

Keep this recipe on hand for easy lunches, meal prep & picnics! Enjoy!

Caprese Pasta Salad

We’re going on a picnic and I’m bringing…pasta salad. Caprese Pasta Salad to be exact! This simple combination of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, basil & balsamic dressing makes for the most fresh & delicious picnic lunch side. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead & can be stored in individual mason jars or containers for simple packing and enjoying.

• 1 lb of your favorite pasta
• 1 container of cherry tomatoes
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
• fresh basil
• balsamic dressing (from the bottle - or - combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, dijon mustard & season)

As a true pasta salad lover, take my word for it & save this recipe to try out this season!

Thumbprint Fruit Tarts

These are the perfect Springtime! The best part is, these fruit tarts look super fancy, but they couldn’t be any easier to make!

Prepare your favorite sugar cookie dough, or grab a pack of store-bought dough. Roll dough into balls and add to a mini muffin tin, pressing your thumb into the center of each to form a crust. Bake at 350 degrees for 11-14 minutes & cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare your filling by beating together 8 oz. of cream cheese, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp. of vanilla extract & a pinch of salt. Add filling to a piping or freezer bag with the tip cut off. Fill each sugar cookie tart with cream-cheese filling & top with a mix of fruit, such as mandarin oranges, kiwi, strawberries & blueberries. Enjoy!

Bunny Cinnamon Rolls

SAVE this for Easter morning! This is the cutest, simplest breakfast idea using store-bought cinnamon rolls (I used the grand size). Shape out your bunny ears and bake according to the directions. Then add on some icing & optional holiday sprinkles, it’s as simple as that!

There’s nothing better than kicking off a holiday with the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls going through the house!

Ham & Cheese Egg Muffins

Keep Easter breakfast quick, easy & delicious with these Ham & Cheese Egg Muffins! Combine 1/2 cup of milk with 12 eggs and whisk together. Add in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and 1 ham steak cubed up into pieces. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper and pour into a heavily-sprayed muffin tin. Top with extra cheese and bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. The perfect “grab & eat” to keep you out of the kitchen and onto the egg hunt!

Bunny Bait Snack Mix

This festive & tasty treat is so easy to make and can be customized to include your favorite snacks. It also makes for a fun activity in the kitchen with little ones, they love pouring each ingredient in one at a time!

Combine:
3 cups Rice Chex Cereal
3 cups Frosted Cheerios
1/4 bag mini Cadbury Eggs
1/4 bag M&Ms

Pour 1 bag of melted white chocolate chips over cereal mixture until fully coated. Spread mix out onto a parchment paper covered baking sheet and top with extra candies, slightly pushing them down. Let mix sit out on the counter for an hour and then break apart into small chunks. Dig right in and store in an airtight container.

Pots of {Popcorn} Gold

Whether they are used as bait to catch a leprechaun, or left behind by one of those tricky little guys, these pots of popcorn gold make for the cutest and easiest treats to put together for St. Patrick’s Day! To make, fill a plastic pot or bowl (dollar store!) with popcorn, and add a rainbow candy & shamrock pick on top. Who doesn’t love a sweet and salty snack with a side of luck?!

Rainbow Candy: Airheads Xtremes

Air Fryer Salmon

AIR FRYER SALMON
This dinner idea is just too easy not to share. The salmon comes out perfectly in the air fryer & this marinade is delish!

• 1 salmon filet per person (or more if you’d like!)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley
• 1-2 gloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1-2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• salt & pepper

Spray air fryer rack with cooking spray & add marinade-covered salmon. Cook at 375 degrees for 8-12 minutes, depending on how you like your salmon cooked. Enjoy!

Shamrock Pretzels

It’s almost time to catch that leprechaun & these tasty treats may do the trick! Arrange 3 tiny pretzels and a pretzel stick into the shape of a shamrock. Add a Rolo on top & pop in a 250 degree oven for 2 minutes. Remove from oven and push down a green M&M onto the center of the semi-melted Rolo. Add treats to the freezer for a few minutes while chocolate sets and then enjoy! As easy as that!

Rainbow Fruit Kabobs

Check out those colors! These kabobs are such an easy dessert to put together for parties or picnics. Even more, they make for the perfect festive treat for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration! 🍀

You can use your favorite colorful fruits, I used: Red Grapes, Blueberries, Green Grapes, Pineapple, Cantaloupe, Strawberries

Just grab some skewers & have fun creating this colorful, healthy snack!

Salami Rose

Did you know those pretty salami roses you often see on charcuterie boards are actually super simple to make? Dazzle your Valentine with a professionally looking charcuterie board, you can do it!

How to Make:
1. Grab a glass (I use a wine glass) and some sliced salami.
2. For your first two rows of salami, fold each piece over the rim of the glass with more meat inside the glass than on the outside.
3. For the remaining layers, fold the salami evenly over the glass.
4. Keep layering on until the center of your rose is fully covered or a tiny hole into the glass remains.
5. Flip the glass over and you have yourself a pretty salami rose!

Easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Emphasis on the “easy”! This dinner idea comes together in no time and is full of flavor. Cook ground chicken in 2 tbsp of heated olive oil until browned. In a separate bowl combine 1 tbsp minced garlic, 1/4 cup hoisin sauce, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil. You can add in fresh ginger as well! Add brown sauce mixture to ground chicken and heat for 2 minutes. Fold in 3 chopped green onions until they’re softened. Get creative and add in water chestnuts, chopped carrots or peas! Serve in iceberg lettuce cups alongside rice and enjoy this simple dinner!

Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

Delicious & easy - this is the perfect comfort meal for those cold winter nights!

Cut a 3 lb. beef roast into 3-4 chunks and sear all sides in an oil covered pan (add fresh rosemary for extra flavor). Add chunks to slow cooker. In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup each of chopped carrots, celery and onion, 3-4 cloves of minced garlic, a 28 oz. can of crushed tomatoes, 6 oz. can of tomato paste, 2.5 cups of beef broth, 1 tsp sugar, 2 bay leaves, and a pinch of dried oregano & thyme. Pour mixture over beef and cook on low for 6-8 hours until beef is tender. Shred beef during the last hour of cooking and mix together with sauce. Serve over top pappardelle pasta with a sprinkle of grated cheese & enjoy!

NYE Chocolate-Dipped Oreos

Going for the ball drop look! Dip peanut butter Oreos into chocolate and sprinkle with silver and gold sprinkles. Delicious, easy & festive!

Italian Christmas Cookies

A festive, delicious cookie for the holidays!

- 3 eggs
-1/2 cup oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp extract (almond, vanilla, lemon or anise)
- 3 cups flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt

Blend together wet ingredients and then add in dry ingredients. Dough will be sticky and moldable. Roll into 1-inch balls and bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes. Cool completely and then dip in an icing mixture of powdered sugar and milk, enough milk to keep the consistency on the creamier side. Add holiday sprinkles & enjoy!

Christmas Cookie Bars

Ok, this may be one of my most favorite treats I ever made. They are so good!

• 2 sticks of room temp butter
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 3 eggs
• 3 cups flour
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 cups M&Ms
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Blend together butter, white sugar & brown sugar. Then add in eggs and vanilla extract. Once blended, slowly mix in flour, salt and baking soda. Gently fold in chocolate chips and M&Ms. Add mixed batter to a 9x13 pan lined with sprayed parchment paper. Sprinkle extra M&Ms on top & push them down slightly. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Santa Hummus Platter

I promise you, this hummus platter is easier to put together than you think! This was one of my favorite creations from last year that I had to share it again with you guys this year. To make, start with a container of store-bought hummus and build your Santa from there using broccoli, cauliflower, red pepper, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, black olives and crackers on a larger rectangular tray. This will surely be a holly jolly hit for holiday parties or gatherings!

Christmas Donut Tree

This dessert is not only tasty to eat, but oh so beautiful to look at as well! You start with a styrofoam cone base wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and then using toothpicks, simply attach donut holes all the way around. Add in fresh rosemary to fill any gaps and sprinkle on some powdered sugar. Ta-dah, a holiday treat is served!

For reference, I used a 8.9 inch cone and a little more than two 15 oz boxes of donut holes.

Christmas Tree Cheese Board

Whether you’re hosting or attending, WOW the crowd with a Christmas Tree Cheese Board! All you have to do is arrange some cubed cheese and grapes in the shape of a tree, and garnish with fresh rosemary. Serve with some crackers and of course, holiday cocktails and you’ve got yourself a festive party presentation!

Rudolph Pretzel Bites

These adorable chocolate treats are so simple to make & will surely help to spread some holiday cheer! Dip two pretzel sticks together in melted chocolate and then lay them flat on a piece of parchment paper. Add candy eyes & a red candy nose (I used M&Ms) and wait for them to cool completely before enjoying!

Turkey Marshmallow Treats

Here’s a fun & yummy Thanksgiving idea…Turkey Marshmallow Treats! Make ahead or let the little ones make their own after their turkey dinners. An activity & dessert all in one!

What You Need:
- Popsicle Sticks
- Rice Krispie Treats
- Marshmallow Spread
- Candy Corn
- M&Ms or Chocolate Chips

They are so easy to make, all you have to do is insert a popsicle into the bottom of a Rice Krispie Treat. Add a line of marshmallow spread to the top of the treat and add on your candy corn “turkey feathers” one by one. Add two dots of marshmallow spread and add on the candies for eyes and one more dot of spread to stick on a candy corn turkey beak. Enjoy!

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

This Cinnamon Sugar Donut recipe is easy, delicious & gives all the warm, cozy vibes you look for this time of year!

3/4 cup flour
2 tbsp cornstarch
1/3 cup white sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/3 cup buttermilk
1 tbsp melted butter
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix together all of the dry ingredients - flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder & salt. In a separate bowl, combine wet ingredients - buttermilk, butter, egg & vanilla. Slowly add dry ingredients to this bowl and mix on low until combined. Add batter to a freezer bag and cut off a bottom corner. Pipe batter into a well-greased donut pan and bake at 375 degrees for 12 minutes. Remove donuts from pan and while still warm, brush them with melted butter and dip in a mixture of 1/2 white sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon. Enjoy!

No Bake Pumpkin Pie

The perfect dessert for your holiday table! This No Bake Pumpkin Pie is like a pumpkin pie, cheesecake & pudding pie in one, and tastes absolutely delicious! Visit the post below for the full recipe.

Halloween Bark

This spooky treat gives me all the Halloween feels just looking at it! And then you get to taste it! Spread melted chocolate out evenly on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Top with all the festive goodies you’d like and then pop into the fridge to cool for at least an hour. Chop into pieces & enjoy!

Nutella Board

Move over butter board, a Nutella board is where it’s at! All you have to do is spread Nutella out on a food-safe board and top with fresh banana and strawberry slices, and silvered almonds. Toasted coconut would be yummy on top too! Serve with graham crackers for dipping.

Halloween Breakfast Board

A Halloween Breakfast Board fit for the cutest boos & ghouls around! Kick-off Halloween (or any morning this month) with an easy, fun & festive spread.

On my board are pumpkin waffles (add a dash of vanilla extract & pumpkin spice to your batter, powdered donuts with candy eyeballs and fresh fruit, including banana ghosts with candy eyeballs.

Candy Corn Fruit Cup

True life…I ran out of whipped cream while making these, so let’s envision a bit more whipped cream on top of this healthy, festive snack that you can enjoy all October long!

First Layer: Pineapple
Middle Layer: Mandarin Oranges
Top Layer: Whipped Cream

See the candy corn effect??

Crockpot Chili

This Crockpot Chili is so incredibly easy to put together & absolutely delicious. The perfect meal for a cool or rainy day, and great for football Sundays!

What you need:
- 1.5lbs ground meat
(I used turkey)
- 15oz can of light red kidney beans
(drained)
- 15oz can of black beans
(drained)
- 15oz can of petite diced tomatoes w/ juice
- 15oz can of tomato sauce
- 1 chili seasoning packet
(I used McCormicks Organic packet)
- 1/4 cup of water

1. Cook ground meat until browned.
2. Add meat and all ingredients to slow cooker. Mix until well combined.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours.
4. Top with cheese, green onions & sour cream. Serve with warm tortilla chips. Enjoy!

Witch Hat & Broom Treats

No special spells or tricks, these Halloween treats are just that easy to make!

Witch Hats: Halloween Oreo with a dot of frosting on top, push down a Hershey kiss & add festive sprinkles to finish.

Witch Brooms: Mini Reese’s with a pretzel stick pushed down the center.

Enjoy them & have a witchy, good time!

Caramel Apple Board

Put a fun spin on a seasonal favorite with a Caramel Apple Board! Slice up a couple apples, grab some skewers and indulge in all the yummy caramel & sweet toppings that your little Fall-loving heart desires.

My board includes:
• Caramel Sauce
• Sliced Apples (Honey Crisp & Granny Apple Smith)
• Chocolate Chips
• Crushed Peanuts
• Crushed Twix
• Sprinkles
• Mini Marshmallows
• Pretzels
• Graham Crackers
• Oreo Cookies
• Caramel Chocolate Candy

3-Ingredient Apple Spice Cake

Fall in a cake! You’re going to want to try out this recipe this season, a 3-Ingredient Apple Spice Cake!
•
How to Make:
- 1 box Spice Cake Mix
- 20 oz can of Apple Pie Filling
- 4 eggs

Blend all ingredients together and pour into a greased 13x9 baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Cool completely and then top with cream cheese frosting & lightly sprinkle cinnamon. Enjoy!

Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

I’m always on the lookout for easy dinner ideas that the whole family will enjoy & have found a winner with these delicious Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas!

• 1 yellow onion
• 2 bell peppers
• 2 lbs chicken breast tenders
• 1 packet of fajita seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl then spread out on a greased sheet pan. Bake at 425 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Add tortillas wrapped in foil into the oven for the last 5 minutes. Serve with all of your favorite “extras” like cheese, lettuce, sour cream, guacamole & pico de gallo. Enjoy!

Ham & Cheese Pinwheels

Back to School means back to packing lunches. These pinwheels are quick to make, easy to pack & super cute for the little ones to enjoy in school.

Spread a light layer of cream cheese on a tortilla, then layer with ham and cheese. Roll up tightly & dab a tiny bit of cream cheese onto the end to secure the wrap. Slice into pieces & pop into a lunchbox.

Classic Macaroni Salad

Another Summertime picnic favorite, Macaroni Salad! This particular macaroni salad is simple to prepare, super tasty & would be the perfect side to make for a Summer BBQ.

Homemade Blueberry Muffins

Living in the Garden State, we are spoiled with multiple fresh produce stands on the way home from the beach. This is one of my favorite Summer recipes using fresh, homegrown blueberries!

Frozen Hot Chocolate

A Christmastime favorite with a Summer twist! These frozen hot chocolates were delicious & super simple to make. All you have to do is blend together 2 cups of milk, 3 packets of hot cocoa & 3 cups of ice. Top with some whipped cream, chocolate shavings & sprinkles. Enjoy!

S’Mores Snack Mix

An easy (& less messy) way to enjoy a Summertime favorite! Mix together Teddy Grahams, Mini Marshmallows & Chocolate Chips and dig in! Best when made & enjoyed fresh.

Summer Pasta Salad

The perfect pairing to your Summer grilled favorites! There are so many ways to mix up a pasta salad - this combo was delicious over our 4th of July weekend! Tri-color rotini, fresh mozzarella, red peppers, broccoli, olives, grape tomatoes & Italian dressing, yum!

Summer Ramen Coleslaw

This is one of my favorite Summertime recipes - the perfect mix of fresh and crunch that makes for a delicious side for picnics or BBQS!

Flag Day Cake

I always love the look of flag cakes in the Summertime. We kept it super simple…white box cake, whipped topping & fresh cut strawberries and blueberries!

Strawberry Doughnut Shortcake

Donuts, strawberries, whipped cream…oh my! Slice a glazed donut in half and add whipped cream and fresh cut strawberries for a sweet & simple Summer treat idea!

Layered Ranch Salad

You can’t beat all of the tasty sides & salads this time of year. I have a delicious & eye-catching one for you to add to your Summertime menu, a Layered Ranch Salad!

Summertime Mimosa

Here is a spin on the traditional mimosa using a seasonal Summertime favorite…lemonade! Let me tell you…this mimosa is delicious, refreshing & will be perfect for your Summertime brunches. This is one to save!