Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole

 We have all learned how easy it is to make Dump Cakes, right? Well making Main Courses or casseroles as Dump meals make preparing dinner easier and dinner can be done in a shorter amount of time.

This Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole is hearty, it is filling, and will put smiles on everyone’s face

If you’re looking for an easy dump-and-bake recipe, this dump-and-bake meatball casserole is the perfect meal to make! It only requires a few simple ingredients and can be made ahead of time. Plus, it’s freezer friendly for those busy weeknights!

This dump-and-bake supper is absolutely one of those meals! Italian cuisine (and pasta specifically) is always a big hit in my house. The best part of this comfort food casserole, however, is that YOU DON’T EVEN HAVE TO BOIL THE PASTA!! Awesome, right?

Ingredients

1 Bag frozen meatballs defrosted

1 Jar marinara or spaghetti sauce

3 Cups of water

1 Box Bowtie pasta

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 ½ C. Mozzarella cheese

¼ C. Parmesan cheese grated

How To Make Dump and Bake Meatball CasseroleCasserole

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Add the meatballs, jar of sauce, water, pasta an Italian seasoning to a high sided oven-proof pot or skillet. Stir to combine.

Bake covered for 35 minutes.

Top with cheeses and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Pecan Pie Lasagna – Layers of Sweet, Nutty Perfection

Ingredients:

For the crust:

- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter

For the pecan pie filling:

- 1 cup packed light brown sugar

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter

- 2 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

For the cream cheese layer:

- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1/2 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)

For the caramel sauce:

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press into a 9x13-inch baking dish.

3. Prepare the pecan pie filling: Whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans.

4. Prepare the cream cheese layer: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and whipped topping. Mix until well combined.

5. Assemble the lasagna: Spread the pecan pie filling over the crust. Top with the cream cheese layer. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the cream cheese layer on top.

6. Drizzle with caramel sauce: Whisk together heavy cream, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

Enjoy your Pecan Pie Lasagna! 

Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots

 Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed  Tater Tots

Bacon and cheese-stuffed tater tots are the ultimate comfort food, combining the crispy, golden exterior of tater tots with a rich, gooey filling of cheddar cheese.

savory bacon, and a hint of freshness from green onions. These stuffed tots are perfect for a party, as a snack, or even as a delicious appetizer for any gathering.

Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve, and they’re sure to be a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

1 pound frozen tater tots – The base of this recipe, baked or fried to crispy perfection.

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend) – For a gooey, melty center.

4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled – Adds smoky, savory flavor.

2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped (optional) – For a pop of freshness.

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps bind the filling.

Oil for frying (if not baking) – Optional for achieving extra-crispy tots.

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature indicated on the tater tot package, usually around 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your tater tots cook evenly and get crispy on the outside.

While the oven is heating, cook your bacon strips in a pan until they’re crispy. Once done, chop the bacon into small crumbles, making sure they’re bite-sized for easy stuffing.

Next, prepare the filling. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, finely chopped green onions (if using), and all-purpose flour.

The flour helps the filling stick together and holds its shape when stuffed into the tots. Mix the ingredients well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to prepare the tater tots. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a small slit down the center of each frozen tater tot, making sure not to slice all the way through.

The goal is to create a small pocket to hold the filling, so you can stuff it with the cheesy bacon mixture.

Now, take small spoonfuls of the bacon and cheese mixture and carefully stuff each tater tot, pressing gently to ensure the filling is packed inside. Be cautious not to overstuff, as this can cause the filling to spill out during cooking.

Place the stuffed tater tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking.

If you prefer extra crispy tots, you can lightly spray them with cooking oil or fry them in a pan until golden brown.

If baking, follow the instructions on the tater tot package, usually about 20-25 minutes, or until the tots are crispy and golden.

Once the stuffed tater tots are baked or fried to your liking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or a spicy aioli, and enjoy the cheesy, bacon-filled goodness!

How to Make

Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the  tater tot package. Preheating ensures that your tots will cook to the perfect crispy texture.

As the oven heats, cook your  bacon until it’s crispy and drain the excess fat on paper towels. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces that will fit neatly inside each tot.

Next, prepare the filling by mixing the cooked bacon, shredded cheese, chopped green onions (optional), and a tablespoon of flour in a bowl.

The flour helps bind the mixture together and keeps the filling from being too runny or messy. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.

Now, it’s time to work with the tater tots. Carefully cut a slit down the center of each tot with a sharp knife, making sure not to cut all the way through.

The idea is to create a small pocket to hold the filling, so take your time to make a neat slit in each one.

Stuff each tater tot with the bacon and cheese mixture. Use a small spoon to add the filling, making sure to pack it in without overstuffing.

If you find it difficult to stuff the tots, try using a piping bag to make the process easier.

Once stuffed, place the tater tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure there’s enough space between each tot for even cooking.

If you want to fry the tots instead of baking them, heat oil in a deep pan and carefully fry the stuffed tots until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Bake or fry the tots for the recommended time based on the method you choose. Once they’re done, let them cool slightly before serving.

You can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, depending on your preference, such as ketchup, ranch, or a spicy dipping sauce.

Variations

To customize the flavor, try using a different type of cheese. Mozzarella cheese will give your tots a gooey, stringy center, while pepper jack cheese can add a bit of heat and spice.

For a more decadent filling, consider using a blend of cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, and Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.

If you want to spice things up, add diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the filling. This will give your tater tots a little extra kick.

You could also experiment with spicy cheeses like pepper jack or mix in some sriracha or hot sauce into the filling for an added layer of heat.

For a more balanced option, add some finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

These vegetables will provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the cheese and bacon. Be sure to chop them finely to ensure the filling remains smooth and easy to stuff into the tots.

If you’re following a vegetarian or plant-based diet, substitute the bacon with veggie bacon or even tempeh for a meat-free version.

You can also swap the cheese for a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, creating a delicious and cruelty-free snack.

Consider adding different seasonings to the filling to suit your tastes. A dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika can enhance.

the flavor of the filling and complement the smoky  bacon taste. Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist.

To make mini versions of these  stuffed tater tots, use small tater tots or even baby potatoes for a bite-sized alternative.

This version is perfect for party platters or snack-sized servings, allowing guests to pop them in their mouths with ease.

For a richer, heartier version of these stuffed tots, you can top them with additional melted cheese before baking.

Once they come out of the oven, sprinkle some extra cheese over the top and return them to the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese into a gooey topping.

Tips

When stuffing the tater tots, be sure to use a sharp knife to cut a neat slit down the center of each tot. This will make the process easier and help prevent any accidental breakage.

If you find that the tots are too hard to cut, allow them to thaw for a few minutes before working with them.

To make the bacon crumbles easier to work with, cook the bacon in the oven instead of the stovetop. This method ensures even crisping without the need to stand over the pan.

Once cooked, let the bacon cool on paper towels to remove excess grease before chopping.

If you’re baking the tater tots, consider lightly spraying them with cooking oil to help them crisp up even more.

This will create a golden-brown exterior that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy, melty filling inside. You can also use a convection oven if available to help with even browning.

To avoid overstuffing the tater tots, use a small spoon to add the filling. If you overstuff, the filling may spill out during baking or frying.

If you have extra filling, consider using it for another batch or as a topping for other dishes.

Make sure to bake or fry the tater tots in a single layer on the baking sheet or in the frying pan. Crowding the tots can cause them to cook unevenly. If necessary, cook them in batches to ensure they get perfectly crispy.

These stuffed tater tots are best served immediately after cooking, but if you have leftovers.

store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. Reheat them in the oven for the best results, as microwaving can make them soggy.

If you prefer to fry the stuffed tater tots, ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding the tots.

This will help them cook quickly and achieve that extra crispy texture. A thermometer can help ensure the oil reaches the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C).

Conclusion

Bacon and cheese-stuffed tater tots are a delicious and indulgent treat that combines crispy potatoes, melty cheese, and smoky bacon for a flavor-packed bite.

Perfect for parties, snacking, or as a side dish, these tots are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

With a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can make these tots your own by customizing the filling and seasonings.

Whether you’re baking or frying, these  bacon and cheese-stuffed tater tots are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a classic comfort food.

Delicious Chicken Enchilada Casserole

 Ingredients

For the Casserole:

3 cups cooked chicken shredded (rotisserie chicken works well for convenience)

1 can 19 ounces enchilada sauce (red or green, based on preference)

12 corn tortillas cut into bite-sized pieces

1 can 15 ounces black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can 4 ounces diced green chiles

1 cup frozen corn kernels thawed

3 cups shredded  cheese Mexican blend or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack

1 onion diced

2 cloves garlic minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving (optional):

Sour cream

Chopped fresh cilantro

Diced avocado

Sliced jalapeños

Lime wedges

How To Make Delicious Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little bit of oil.

Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with half of the enchilada sauce, diced green chiles, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Layer the Casserole:

First Layer: Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange a layer of cut tortillas over the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.

Second Layer: Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Top with half of the black beans, corn, and diced onion. Sprinkle a third of the cheese over the top.

Third Layer: Add another layer of cut tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken mixture, black beans, corn, and onion. Sprinkle another third of the cheese over the top.

Fourth Layer: Finish with a final layer of cut tortillas. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all the tortillas are covered. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauce.

Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Garnish and Enjoy: Serve with optional garnishes like sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges on the side.

7 Up Pound Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened

3 cups granulated sugar

5 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon lemon zest

¾ cup 7 Up soda

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon 7 Up soda

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Incorporate the 7 Up: Alternate adding the flour mixture and 7 Up soda, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and 7 Up soda until smooth.

Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Slice and enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 12 servings

 

Lemon Blueberry Loaf

 This Lemon Blueberry Loaf recipe produces a perfectly moist, flavorful and delicious loaf of quick bread! Topped with a lemon glaze this easy bread recipe is a classic combination of tart, sweet, and bright flavors! Sure to be a new favorite! Serve for breakfast, snack, or dessert!

This Lemon Blueberry Bread is a delicious, flavorful quick bread perfect to enjoy along with a cup of coffee or tea. I love the bright flavors of blueberry and lemon, and they work together so beautifully in this simple loaf.

This lemon blueberry bread recipe comes together quite quickly and would beautiful for a special brunch, tea party or shower. In fact, I made this recipe with a very special occasion in mind

Ingredients

1 ½ cups plus 1 tbsp all purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

3 large eggs

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream

½ tsp salt

½ tsp vanilla

½ cup vegetable oil

2 tsp lemon zest

1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries

Lemon Glaze/Syrup

2 to 3 tbsp lemon juice

1 cup sifted confectioner’s sugar

How To Make Lemon Blueberry Loaf

Preheat the oven to 350*

Grease the sides and bottom of a loaf pan

Sift together all dry ingredients for the bread

In a large bowl, mix together all the moist ingredients

Slowly add in the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, add the tbsp of flour to the blueberries and fold gently into the batter

Pour the batter into the prepared pan

Bake for 50 to 55 minutes. If a toothpick comes out clean the bread is done

Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes

Remove loaf from pan and allow to cool on a cooling rack

In a small saucepan on low heat, add the powdered sugar to the lemon juice and let it dissolve. Simmer for 3 minutes

Using a toothpick, poke holes all over the loaf, top and sides

Use a pastry brush to brush the lemon syrup on the top and the sides.

Let harden for 15 minutes before serving

Potato Rolls with Chicken

 

Introduction

Chicken and  Potato Rolls are a delightful and comforting dish that combines  creamy mashed potatoes with a savory chicken filling, all baked to golden perfection. These rolls are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. They are easy to make and can be customized with various ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a party platter, these rolls are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

3 large potatoes, boiled and mashed

1 cup shredded cooked chicken

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

1/2 cup grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

1 egg

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)

1/2 cup grated cheese (for topping)

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven and preparing the filling. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft, then mix in the shredded chicken, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add parsley and grated cheese to the filling for extra flavor. Next, prepare the potato dough by combining mashed potatoes with an egg and breadcrumbs. This mixture will form the outer layer of the rolls.

To assemble the rolls, take a portion of the potato dough and flatten it into a rectangle. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center, then carefully roll the dough around the filling, sealing the edges. Place the rolls on a baking tray, sprinkle with grated cheese, and bake until golden brown.

Once baked, let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, with a dipping sauce of your choice. The combination of creamy potatoes and savory chicken makes these rolls a crowd-pleaser.

How to Make

Making Chicken and Potato Rolls is a straightforward process that involves preparing the filling, shaping the rolls, and baking them. The key is to ensure the potato dough is smooth and easy to work with, so it holds the filling well. When assembling, make sure the rolls are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

Baking the rolls at the right temperature ensures they develop a crispy exterior while remaining soft and flavorful inside. The addition of grated cheese on top adds a delicious cheesy crust that enhances the overall texture and taste.

These rolls are versatile and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy days. They are also a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and cooked chicken, reducing food waste while creating a delicious meal.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also add cooked lentils or beans for a protein-packed alternative. The filling can be customized to suit your preferences, making these rolls adaptable to different diets.

If you prefer a spicier flavor, add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. For a richer taste, mix cream cheese or sour cream into the  potato dough. Experimenting with different herbs and spices can also create unique flavor profiles.

For a gluten-free option, skip the  breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. These variations ensure that everyone can enjoy this delicious dish, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Tips

To achieve the perfect texture, make sure the mashed potatoes are smooth and free of lumps. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more breadcrumbs to make it easier to handle. Chilling the dough for a few minutes before shaping can also help.

When assembling the rolls, avoid overfilling them, as this can cause the filling to spill out during baking. Use a light hand when rolling to ensure the dough is evenly distributed around the filling. This will help the rolls hold their shape and cook evenly.

For extra crispiness, brush the rolls with melted butter or olive oil before baking. You can also broil them for the last few minutes of baking to achieve a golden, crispy top. These small touches can elevate the dish and make it even more enjoyable.

How to Store

Chicken and Potato Rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through. This helps maintain their crispiness better than microwaving.

For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls before baking. Place them on a baking tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen rolls on a baking tray and bake, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Chicken and Potato Rolls are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Their creamy potato exterior and savory chicken filling make them a comforting treat that appeals to both kids and adults. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are a great addition to any meal.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures. Happy cooking!