Beyer Beware

The Weeklong 7th Birthday Celebration

2012-02-09T21:01:00.000-05:00

Boo turned seven a few weeks back, and I swear to you it felt like we celebrated for a week.

No, we did celebrate for a week.

Spoiled kid.

It started the morning of his birthday.

Which I think with the excitement he showed for the two gifts he got from us, we could have called it quits. Especially since my mom was over and gave him a bazillion piece Batman Lego set.

But, then it was on to his birthday supper with daddy's family.

We have our semi to haul grain when we carpet farm in the basement now!

And we have manly shower gel. What? Doesn't every 7-year old want Axe for his birthday and act this excited when he gets it?

And we blew out candles on the custom made Lego cake from Grandma.

But, then it was on to party at school the next day.

I think he really felt like he was the king for the day. But, we weren't done partying with the school friends.

Yes, I actually planned far enough ahead to have a bowling birthday party.

And have a friend over night. I am not sure what happened in the back of the van on the way home from bowling, but both were missing shirts and one might have had a pink sock on.

And then we headed to the Beef House the next day to meet my family to celebrate.

And boy was it an unbelievable birthday week. Doesn't that face say it all!

Hunk of Meat Monday: How to Use a Big Pork Loin

2012-02-06T12:21:00.001-05:00

One of the great things about buying meat in bulk, is the price savings you can get. Recently, I bought this whole pork loin. Now, this here is the definition of hunk of meat!

Now when you buy a nearly 9 pound piece of meat, it can be a bit overwhelming. I break mine down to get 3+ meals out of it. The reason I say 3+ is because this is perfect for feeding crowds.

Breaking it down is pretty simple and has gotten even easier with the meat companies putting helpful guides on the meat as well.

When we had family over to celebrate a birthday, I used the two ends of the loin, the boneless rib roast and the boneless sirloin roast. I then cut the middle portion into inch thick chops and put in the freezer for future stuffed pork chop meals.

I made the simply delicious pork loin from Robyn over at Add a Pinch with my two roasts. It was simple to make and tasty too.

With the help of my food processor I mixed together the marinade of pepsi or coke, jalapenos, onion, garlic, soy sauce, honey, olive oil and ginger.

Poured the marinade over both roasts in a gallon zipper bag.

Let them marinade for a few hours or over night. The remove the roasts and place in a roasting pan or dutch oven. I sprinkled the loins with salt and pepper as well.

I roasted the pork on 375 for about an hour. I use a meat thermometer and took the roast out to rest when the temp reached 150 degrees. As the meat rests it continues to cook and will rise another five degrees in temperature.

I realize we were all raised eating pork white and dried out, but pink pork is perfectly safe to eat. Now that we raise our pigs mainly in barns, they are not exposed to various bugs and other items that live in the soil. So, the need to cook pork till it is over cooked and dry isn't necessary.

What are you all cooking up? Can't wait to see some of your great recipes. Last week had some popular recipes. Be sure to check out these favorites.

Source: Uploaded by user via Leah on Pinterest

Source: aseasonforallthings.blogspot.com via Leah on Pinterest

Source: frugalfollies.com via Leah on Pinterest

What does pinterest say about you or, rather, me?

2012-02-02T21:29:00.001-05:00

There is a craze taking place across computer screens...Pinterest. I have to admit, pinterest is becoming my go to search engine for just about everything. And over at Mama's Losin' It, the writing prompts are having us look at our last five pins.

Source: Uploaded by user via Leah on Pinterest

I pin random quotes.

Source: mixnsip.com via Leah on Pinterest

Random drinks.

Source: beyerbeware.net via Leah on Pinterest

The latest kitchen creation.

Source: google.com via Leah on Pinterest

Things I think my kids would love.

Source: maryellenfricke.yolasite.com via Leah on Pinterest

And things that just make me smile about where I grew up and still live.

That is exactly what the last pin makes me do, smile.

It isn't a secret. I grew similar to the infamous Dixie Chicks song, "Goodbye Earl", a member of the 4-H Club, active in the FFA.

I have the tattoo to prove it. Ignore the horrific, lack of pedicure.

Anybody else have the instinct to go straight from the Pledge of Allegiance to the 4-H Pledge? I feel like my childhood revolved around 4-H club meetings, 4-H County Fairs, 4-H Camp, and then I, of course, went and lived at 4-H House at the University of Illinois. My best friends in the world know what 4-H is even if I didn't grow up with them because, well, we all tend to migrate towards each other even as adults.

Source: Uploaded by user via Leah on Pinterest

So, I am who I am thanks to my roots in rural America. A bit of a workaholic. A little bit country. A fan of farmers. And a 4-H girl till the end.

Be sure to checkout other stories about pinterest pins and other writing prompts!

Hop, Skip and Go Naked Cookies

2012-01-31T08:08:00.001-05:00

Back at Christmas, I was in a flurry of baking cookies when someone posted on Facebook they were making hop, skip and go naked cookies. When another person commented they loved the cocktails, I was intrigued. Cookies inspired by a cocktail. This is my kind of cookie!

Now, I discovered the drink is simply beer, frozen lemonade and vodka. I am not sure if it is good, but it sounds like something you would drink on PCB:)

Source: mixnsip.com via Leah on Pinterest

Now back to the cookies. Start by creaming brown sugar and white sugar with shortening and butter.

Add eggs, milk, and rum or brandy and mix till combined. If you don't want to use alcohol, substitute almond extract.

Follow with the flour, soda, and salt. Finish off with the quick oats and remove the bowl from the mixer.

Now it is time to add the good stuff. Start with toffee pieces.

Then add chocolate chips.

Stir to combine evenly throughout the dough.

Bake on 375 for 8-9 minutes on parchment lined cookie sheets. I didn't use parchment paper and regretted it. Don't be me. Use the parchment.

Be warned, I woofed down about 4 cookies mindlessly. These cookies have the perfect amount of chewiness and chocolate with the brandy leaving just a hint of flavor.

Hunk of Meat Monday: Buffalo Roasted Chicken

2012-01-29T23:23:00.003-05:00

I have figured out how to eat chicken at our house. Add buffalo marinade, butter and ranch seasoning. Hello juicy, flavorful chicken.

Besides being down right delicious, it was also so simple. I had bought a whole chicken and washed it with cold water, pulled the neck, gizzard and liver out of the inside and placed in a large ziploc bag.

I have had this bottle of buffalo wing sauce and marinade sitting in the pantry for a while waiting for me to make wings. But I thought maybe I could make a killer roast chicken with it instead.

I just poured about a cup all over the chicken, outside and inside.

It marinaded for a few hours in the fridge before I roasted it. To prep for roasting, I cut up about 5-6 pieces of celery and put inside of the chicken's cavity.

I put 2 tablespoons of softened butter and a 1/2 teaspoon of ranch mix in with the celery as well.

I melted two more tablespoons of butter and poured the remainder of the ranch mix envelope into the melted butter.

After putting the chicken in the deep covered baker breast side up, I simply spooned the ranch and butter mixture over the chicken.

I baked the chicken on 350 degrees for 1 hour and 15 minutes. I would baste the chicken several times during the baking time to make sure plenty of moisture was getting into the chicken. When I pulled it out of the oven, I let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.

The results were just how I had imagined. Juicy with a hint of heat. Even if you don't like a lot of heat in your food, you will love this. Both of the kids ate a leg plus several slices of chicken breast.

Hoping you have some more great recipes to share. I have to admit...these spicy Dr. Pepper pork sandwiches inspired me to make my own creation this week.

Source: goingjane.blogspot.com via Leah on Pinterest

Affiliate links were used in this post.

Hunk of Meat Monday: 3 Cheese Baked Spaghetti

2012-01-22T21:52:00.002-05:00

I don't know how everyone can make meal plans for the week and stick to it. I am secretly envious of your planning what you are going to be craving skills. For me, I usually have a craving and make what I am craving.

Something cheesy.

Something salty.

Something creamy.

Something carbalicious.

I bring you my latest creation based on what momma was craving...Three cheese baked spaghetti.

My first recommendation for baked spaghetti is to buy cut spaghetti. It is my new pasta love.

Source: barillaus.com via Leah on Pinterest

I know, I could just break long spaghetti into pieces, but then you have spaghetti fly EVERYWHERE. So, get your spaghetti cooking, a half a pound to be exact.

Second recommendation for baked spaghetti is use ground pork or combination of ground beef and pork. And of course my recommendation is to cook a pound of meat in the micro cooker.

Once the meat and spaghetti are cooked, put the spaghetti in a large bowl and add one egg, one cup of cottage cheese, one cup of mozzarella and a half a cup of Parmesan cheese.

In the micro cooker add one jar of spaghetti sauce, one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, one teaspoon of garlic powder and salt, and a half a teaspoon of pepper.

Then mix the meat with the spaghetti and cheese. Pour it all into a large casserole dish or 13 x 9 pan.

Top it with another cup to cup and a half of mozzarella cheese and half a cup of Parmesan cheese.

Bake on 350 for 30 minutes, until it is bubbly and all the cheese is melted.

Plated up with a beer biscuit and momma was in heaven.

What have you been craving? Do share your recent cravings. Can't wait to see what meaty creations you have feasted on!

Beer Biscuits

2012-01-20T07:30:00.000-05:00

It was an accident. I promise. I didn't intend to make biscuits with beer. It just happened.

I was really trying to make these 7-UP biscuits from Plain Chicken's blog.

Source: plainchicken.com via Leah on Pinterest

Honest. I started with my Bisquick. I also got the oven cranking to 450 degrees.

Added 1/2 cup of sour cream.

Combined to make a crust like consistency almost. See. Crumbly.

Now time for the 7-Up or Sprite or other clear, bubbly lemon-lime pop. Insert swearing under my breath when I can't find any in my house or garage.

In comes plan B!

I grabbed a can of the husband's brew. He was gone. His is cheaper than mine. Really, I just didn't want to waste on of my 312s on this just in case it flopped.

Measured out 1/2 cup and poured it into the Bisquick mix.

Dust the counter top with some, well really quite a bit of, Bisquick. The dough is STICKY! Go ahead and toss some Bisquick on top of the dough too. Pat it sort of flat.

I put a 1/2 stick of butter in a round, or you could use a square, cake pan. Popped the pan in the oven to melt the butter.

When it was melted I cut out biscuits with a round biscuit cutter. A knife would do the job too. You will get between 7-9 biscuits depending on the the size of them.

Then toss them in the oven for about 12-15 minutes.

They grow together and form a butter crisp bottom with fluffy, billowy insides. They were a great addition to our three cheese baked spaghetti. I am not sure I will ever try the version with pop. The beer version is too good. Plus, someone had to finish the beer!

And yes, the kids and I ate the whole pan. What can I say, we are carb loaders:)

Holiday Hangover

2012-01-18T20:59:00.000-05:00

I love Christmas.

The decorations.

The music at church.

The lazy days.

The non-stop food.

The lack of schedule.

The new toys.

The reflecting on just how much we are blessed.

But, Christmas is over. It is time to move on. But, my tree is still up.

OK, both of them.

Who am I kidding? All my decorations are still up.

I just don't want the images of the Christmas play to leave my memory.

Or the fun with family to end.

I thought a trip to Hawaii would motivate me when I got back home. After all some fun in the sun should do that.

All the beautiful sunsets...

And climbs up craters.

In the moonlight.

In order to watch the sun rise.

With one of your dear friends.

Or even a little parade through the rain forest looking for water falls should get you out of the hangover.

And jumping into 60 degree water should wake up the soul.

And it did. But all good things must come to an end.

So, good bye Christmas tree. See you next Thanksgiving. I will miss you and the memories while you are gone.

Hunk of Meat Monday: Sloppy Joe Casserole

2012-01-15T22:34:00.000-05:00

Man, my kitchen misses me. I haven't really cooked since the first of the year. I guess I was overloaded in December with holiday baking. Or at least overloaded with the dishes. That is why I am thankful for leftovers I have frozen that turn into quick, yummy suppers around our house. I bring you my sloppy joe casserole.

Back in October I had made a big crock pot full of sloppy joes. I put several freezer bags full in the freezer for quick meals.

It paid off tonight! I reheated the sloppy joes on top of the stove, but easily could have done it in the microwave too.

When it was completely heated, I poured it into a 9 by 9 pyrex pan.

Then I put a layer of cheddar cheese slices on top of the meat.

I rounded it out by topping it with a can of the small refrigerator biscuits.

Bake it for 10-15 minutes on 400 degrees.

Bake until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Enjoy!

What do you have cooking this week. Do share some of your recent favorites!

Creamy Tomato Chicken Tortellini Soup - Crazy Cooking Challenge

2012-01-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

Nothing is better than chicken noodle soup when you are feeling sick. This week I got hit with the cold bug that seems to have taken down quite a few people. So when I found this creamy tomato tortellini soup over at Real Mom Kitchen I knew it would be killer with chicken in it. The perfect chicken noodle soup for the CRAZY COOKING CHALLENGE over at Moms Crazy Cooking.

This recipe is so easy and easily adaptable to what you have in your pantry. To see the original recipe go here. You will be shocked to find that the base for this soup is two cans of tomato soup. Yep, plain Campbell's tomoato soup. Throw in some fresh cheese tortellini and canned chicken, and this becomes a fast meal too!

The bonus to fresh pasta is the quick cooking time. I got the water going for the tortellini while I mixed together the two cans of tomato soup, a 14.5 ounce can of chicken stock, a 14.5 ounce can of petite diced tomates (I was out of sun-dried tomatoes) and 3 cups of milk or half and half. The original recipe called for vegetable stock, but since I was adding chicken I decided to use chicken stock as well.

I add the can of chicken with juices drained to the stock pot then.

Once it was all combined, I added onion and garlic powders and sweet basil.

When the pasta was cooked, it got a quick drain it was added to the pot.

Then some shredded Parmesan cheese was added to the soup as it finished cooking.

The end result was awesome! The hubby even at two bowls. TWO!! Can you believe it. It was soup. Soup with chicken, and he ATE IT!! This is a keeper.

Be sure to check out the other great chicken noodle soups in this month's Crazy Cooking Challenge. Be sure to vote for your favorite one.

Hunk of Meat Monday: Crock Pot Beef Roast with Mushrooms and Onions

2012-01-01T20:42:00.001-05:00

It's a new year, and with that comes a brand new start to being on top of meals in the Beyer house. The crock pot is crucial for us to have a hot meal on a week night. Otherwise our hot meal would be frozen pizza and microwave meals too many nights.

The great thing about cooking a big hunk of meat on Monday, is that leftovers easily and quickly make meals for the following nights of the week. This crock pot beef roast was perfect for leftovers. And easy to make with lots of flavor.

I started with a roast that was 2-3 pounds. It was of course frozen, so I defrosted it in the microwave for about 8 minutes.

Then I grabbed my favorite steak seasoning and rubbed it on both sides of the roast.

I then heated up a large skillet and put about a tablespoon or two of oil in the skillet.

Then sear both sides of the roast for 2-3 minutes on each side. I also added Worcestershire sauce to the pan as I cooked the beef.

Then transfer the roast to the crock pot.

Keep the pan over a low heat and put an onion cut into 8 hunks on the bottom of the pan.

See all that flavorful goodness left on the bottom of the pan? I wanted to some how get that all captured. After a quick scan of the kitchen I noticed a half a bottle of red wine leftover from the previous night. I poured about 1/2 cup of the wine into the pan with the onions.

I quartered up around 8 button mushrooms and tossed them in the pan as well.

Cook the onions and mushrooms until all the bits are off the bottom of the pan.

Pour the mushrooms, onions and reduced wine over the beef roast.

Pour a can of cream of mushroom soup over top of the beef, onions and mushrooms. Follow up with one can of beef broth.

Cook for 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. After the school and work day, play practice and ballet, this was a welcomed meal. I served it over top of some instant mashed potatoes. Yes, instant. I'm not super woman.

Can't wait to see wait you all have planned for the new year in your kitchens!

Sweet & Salty Snacks

2011-12-31T10:45:00.002-05:00

Happy New Years Eve! I have been on quite the hiatus from blogging, and well social media in general this Christmas break. I must admit, I have watched a LOT of TV. I guess I know what I would do if I didn't have blogging.

So, as you all are looking for something quick and easy to make for your New Year's parties, I have two new go to recipes for you.

Butterscotch Snack Mix

Ranch Oyster Crackers

I must admit the butterscotch snack mix was inspired by my friend, Megan, over at Gal in the Middle. She makes the most addicting White Chocolate Snack Mix AKA White Trash. I was SURE I had the ingredients when at 10 pm one night I remembered I needed a snack for the next day. Well, I didn't, so I improvised.

I didn't have pretzels but did have chow mein noodles. Which made me think of haystacks. For anyone who took Microwaving in 4-H back in Illinois, you know what I am talking about. So, I thought I could make the butterscotch flavors work for this snack mix.

I started by melting a bag of white chocolate chips with butterscotch chips together.

But when I did the finger dip taste test something was missing. So, I grabbed the peanut butter and added a big scoop to the mix.

While this was melting all together, I mixed together 3 cups of corn chex, 3 cups of rice chex, 3 cups of cheerios along with 2 cups of peanuts and 2 cups of chow mein noodles.

Then pour the melted chocolate/butterscotch over the cereal mixture and stir to cover completely.

Then pour the M&Ms in to the mix. This way the candy coated shell will not melt off.

Pour the mixture out over a parchment lined counter to cool and harden up.

The results are the perfect mixture of sweet with salty.

Now, the oyster crackers are probably something I have had at one time or another, but a recent tailgate I got hooked to these munchies. The recipe is simple and can be found over at the Hidden Valley Ranch site.

Start by pouring the 16-18 ounces of oyster crackers in a large ziploc bag. Pour 1/4 cup oil over top of the crackers and shake to coat.

Then pour one envelope of ranch mix, 1/2 teaspoon dill weed, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder over the crackers. Shake to cover once again.

Pour out onto a baking sheet.

Bake on 25- degrees for 15-20 minutes till the crackers turn a golden brown.

I like mine to be really golden so I let them go a bit longer. Use your judgement.

Enjoy your New Years Eve!

Christmas Baking - Rolo Cookies

2011-12-20T21:59:00.000-05:00

Friends, I am going to start this post with a warning. These cookies are easy to make since they only have four ingredients, are to die for straight out of the oven, and are sure to guarantee a five pound weight gain. So since you have read the warning, continue on reading.

Obviously the star of the cookie is the simple caramel in milk chocolate known as the Rolo.

But the other star is the chocolate cake mix.

The kids loved helping make these. As I mixed together 1/3 cup of oil and 2 eggs into the cake mix, the kids unwrapped Rolos.

Then you simply wrap the cake mix dough around a Rolo.

Bake for 7-8 minutes on 350 degrees.

Viola!!

Dust with powdered sugar. Or don't. Either way, fill up your glass with milk and sit at the counter for a while. There will be about 30 cookies so make sure you are supervised with the cookies.

Hunk of Meat Monday: Ranch Oven Fried Chicken Birthday Dinner

2011-12-18T23:37:00.001-05:00

In honor of my princess's birthday, she got to pick dinner out last Monday. She was very, very specific...chicken legs, mashed potatoes, corn and green beans. Gotta baby. Your wish is my command.

It is so hard to believe that my baby is 5! Because that means I am on the brink of having two kids in school full-time. I feel like I should be in school full-time still. How does this happen? So, I interrupt this recipe with some birthday love for my baby.

She had quite the birthday and finally got the doll all little girls await...the American Girl doll.

I didn't want the big old grease mess of making fried chicken, so I decided oven fried would have to work for the birthday girl. I must admit, when a girlfriend at ballet said just drive through KFC, I was tempted. I am glad I didn't, because now I have a 5 ingredient oven fried chicken recipe that is fantastic!

The secrets to this out of the world oven fried chicken...

I started by crushing up 3 cups of rice krispies.

Then I added 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese to the rice krispies.

I added half of the 1 ounce ranch dip mix envelope to the cereal and cheese.

Mix it all together.

But the crispy has to stick to the chicken. So, I mixed one cup of mayo with the other half of the ranch seasoning.

Now you are ready to get the chicken coated. Begin by spreading the mayo/ranch mix all over the chicken and then toss with the rice krispy mix.

I then placed in a cooking stone casserole pan.

I baked it for about 45 minutes on 350 degrees.

The result was golden deliciousness. The birthday girl had two chicken legs she liked them so much! We had some leftovers that also made some yummy suppers that were quick and easy to make.

Can't wait to see what you have baking up this week. I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!!

Pass the locally grown vodka!

2011-12-12T22:33:00.001-05:00

That's right, I said local and vodka in the same sentence. Since eating local food is the trendy thing, I thought maybe I should drink local alcohol too. One of the cool things about not only being married to a farmer but also working for the farming community, is you learn a lot about where food comes from.

And I learned a few weeks ago that if I drink vodka (or any clear liquor), I have a high probability it came from corn grown in either Indiana, Illinois or Iowa. So, bring on the vodka.

Source: Uploaded by user via Leah on Pinterest

But, in all honesty, corn gets a bad rap. Michael Pollan gave it a bad name in Omnivore's Dilemma. Then for some reason cane sugar folks gave HFCS (High Fructose Corn Sugar) a bad name. Oh wait, I know the reason. So they could sell more cane sugar. And now people think corn fed beef is less desirable than grass fed. Seriously people have you never had a good steak???

Part of me just shakes my head in frustration for how gullible the general consumer is on these marketing schemes. Because most of the time that is exactly what they are. Someone villainizes the competition to make their product look superior or more desirable. It is marketing people.

But, while touring Grain Processing Corporation, I realized it is all about access for most people. When was the last time people were given access to major food processing companies?

Source: grainprocessing.com via Leah on Pinterest

We have all started showing pictures of our farms and trying to show everyone just how good of a job the farmers are doing. But, the problem isn't with the farmers job. It is really about what happens when the commodity leaves the farm.

So, let me take you through the process of getting locally grown vodka.

It all starts in the spring. Or early summer if you get near record rains like we did this year. The hope of getting in the tractor to plant is what gets farmers through the cold, long winters. The rush to the field is what keeps marriages together too. Seriously, have you ever lived with a farmer who wakes up every morning and then is quickly disappointed when the weather is just not going to cooperate? Wives are happy to see the farmers skip with joy to their tractors. They have their sanity back with them no longer cooped up inside.

Some farmers no till plant (top picture with weeds and dead plant stubble) and some work the fields before the corn or soybeans are planted (bottom picture with the soil all neat and tilled). Both have pros and cons. Each farmer knows their soil better than anyone else and will do what has the best results. We can all make claims that one type of planting is better than the other, but honestly it is sort of like parenting advice, don't judge my decisions and I won't judge your decisions.

And then we watch the corn grow. Literally.

Then we watch the corn almost die when we don't get rain for six weeks. And then we watch the corn blow down with 70 mph wind gusts. And then it starts raining again. And finally...

The corn is dried out and the combines start rolling. The wives do the happy dance and go into their fall farm widow mode. But, our children, oh our children love this time of year. It means they get to shadow the farmer in their life. And this is the ultimate fairytale for a farm kid.

And then, it is off to climb in the semi and haul the corn back to the farm for storage until it is time to take it to market or deliver to the elevator, corn processor, or livestock farmer right away. For us, a lot of our corn goes directly to pig farmers. But for some lucky folks they will haul their corn to a processor or elevator.

Source: sfgiowa.com via Leah on Pinterest

The corn processor...you know the high fructose corn syrup factory or the ethanol plant or the food grade ethanol plant. And then fun process of making all this really cool stuff begins, including vodka and hand sanitizer which both come from food grade ethanol. Because, after all ethanol is alcohol it has just been blended with gasoline, so who would think of drinking it.

So, the next time you have a French martini remember how great it feels to know the vodka came from corn plants grown right here in the Midwest by some of the most salt of the earth folks. And drink an extra one in their honor!

Source: thingsforboys.com via Cindy on Pinterest

Hunk of Meat Monday: BBQ Chicken Calzones

2011-12-11T21:25:00.001-05:00

Quick meals are must in our house on weeknights. After all one night we have ballet, one night we have basketball, throw a school activity into the week and you are talking craziness. If it isn't a crock pot meal, then it needs to be a quick meal. This is why I love this new recipe I came across in the Gooseberry Patch 101 Soups, Salads, and Sandwiches I am reviewing and giving away.

BBQ chicken calzones are going to be a regular at our house. A few things that make this a super easy and quick weeknight meal are Pillsbury refrigerator pizza dough and my Pampered Chef covered baker.

I had froze some chicken tenderloins a while back when I found them on a quick sale. I pulled them out frozen and put them in my covered baker. I poured about 1/4 cup of root beer over the chicken. I covered both sides of the chicken with a BBQ seasoning too. I then popped the frozen chicken in the microwave, yes microwave for 10 minutes. I broke it apart after about 7 minutes. I had to cook the chicken an additional 2 minutes for the chicken to be fully cooked.

But I needed more chicken. So, I pulled out another frozen bag of cooked chicken and warmed it up quickly. I chopped up both portions of chicken to get about 3 cups of chicken.

I then mixed a cup of barbeque sauce in with the chicken.

I then unrolled a thin crust tube of pizza dough. I cut the dough into two rectangles. I spooned half the BBQ chicken onto half of each regtangle. I diced up a half a red onion. I put red onions on most of the chicken. However, I knew one of my kids would decide they didn't like onions if I covered it all.

I covered the chicken and onions with mozzarella cheese, about a cup on each portion.

Then cover the chicken, onions, and cheese with the remaining half of the dough.

I then brushed the tops with egg whites and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. I baked on 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes. The results were golden brown goodness.

If you love BBQ chicken pizza, you will love these calzones!

I can't wait to see what you all are sharing this week. Last week I know many of you got some great meals, especially these popular links.

Source: twomaidsamilking.blogspot.com via Leah on Pinterest

Source: zweberfarms.wordpress.com via Leah on Pinterest

Gooseberry Patch gave me this cookbook free of charge. The opinions I am sharing are my own and not an obligation. Affiliate links have also been used in this post.

Giveaway - Gooseberry Patch 101 Soups, Salads & Sandwiches

2011-12-07T21:00:00.000-05:00

I mentioned earlier this week that I am in love with the soon to be released Gooseberry Patch 101 Soups, Salads & Sandwiches cookbook. It is my new weeknight quick meal solution. I am betting that I make every single recipe in this book over the next couple of months. Love it.

Which makes me extremely excited to giveaway to one of you. That's right folks, I am giving this cookbook away. I know there a lot of moms out there looking for new easy dinner solutions that their kids will eat too. This would also make a great Christmas present. You will have it in time to give to someone too.

You got a peak into the sandwiches with the beef stroganoff sandwiches on Hunk of Meat Monday.

I also made two soups and one salad and LOVED them too. They were all easy to make, and I had the ingredients for all of them in the pantry. Win!!

The first soup I made was tomato-ravioli soup. This was a great change up if you are one night a week spaghetti family.

Loved it. The neighbors were over too, and they gave a thumbs up too!

For lunch one day this week, I threw together the chicken enchilada soup. Yummo! Supper easy too.

It cooked itself so to speak. It simmers on the stovetop for about an hour. I think this one could easity be adapted to the crock pot.

My finally recipe was a salad recipe. I love taco salad. This version had pasta in it. I was so intrigued, I had to try it. I am not sure I will ever make it without pasta now!

I add the chips to each individual salad so I could eat it again with out the soggy chips. Have I mentioned I love this cookbook.

Did you notice anything else all these recipes had in common. Yep, my trusty micro cooker. Makes these recipes that much faster.

So, you want to win it before you can buy it??? Register through the various ways below.

What are you waiting for? Enter already!

Gooseberry Patch gave me this cookbook free of charge. The opinions I am sharing are my own and not an obligation. Affiliate links have also been used in this post.

Cookies 'N Cream Fudge - Crazy Cooking Challenge

2011-12-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

When I saw this fudge over on Shugary Sweets, I knew my family would love it. Even my husband who "thinks" he doesn't like white chocolate loved this. And why wouldn't he?

Not only is this fudge so yummy, but also easy to make. Easy peasy.

I started by crushing 20 Oreo cookies. I used double stuff because in my life no other Oreo exists.

I don't pulverize the cookies. I left some big pieces.

Now start the fudge with 3 cups of white chocolate ships and a can of sweet and condensed milk.

Combine the chocolate chips and milk in a sauce pan.

Then add a 7 ounce container of marshmallow fluff or creme.

Stir it all together until it is all melted and smooth.

Then add one teaspoon of vanilla to the mix.

Finally, stir in the Oreo cookies.

Then line a 13 x 9 pan with aluminum foil and pour the fudge mixture into the pan.

Pop in the fridge for about 3 hours.

I cut into small pieces. You will have A LOT of fudge. You probably need to have someone to ~~pawn~~ give some to immediately or you will soon go into Oreo fudge comatose.

Be sure to check out all the other great fudge recipes below. Don't forget to vote for your favorite too!

Blondies & Buckeye Bars

2011-12-05T20:12:00.001-05:00

My contribution to the holiday cooking has been baking desserts. I found two doozies right next to each other in the Gooseberry Patch Big Book of Home Cooking Cookbook.

I love this cookbook. I love these bars. Let's talk about the Best Blondies first.

You start by creaming together two sticks of melted butter and two cups of brown sugar.

Then you add two eggs and two teaspoons of vanilla.

Mix until it is good and creamy.

Then you add two cups of flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

Then you add the goodies. The original recipe called for white chocolate chips. My husband of course "thinks" he doesn't like white chocolate. So, I added one cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and one cup of chopped pecans along with 3/4 cup of toffee, with chocolate coating no less.

Once it is all stirred together, pour into a parchment lined 13 x 9 pan. And bake for 30-40 minutes on 375 degrees.

Now, some folks might say these bars were sweet. I think they were perfect.

The other bars I made had me at Buckeye. I don't know what it is about Christmas that makes me think of the splendid balls of peanut butter, but they go hand in hand for me.

This recipe was super easy. Thanks to the use of a boxed brownie mix:) I love the chocolate fudge brownies personally. Just make sure the mix is for a 13 x 9 pan. Make as directed on the back of the box and let cool.

When the brownies are cooled you will then add the layer of peanut butter. It is so easy to make it should be taxed or banned or illegal. It is simply two cups of powdered sugar, one cup of peanut butter and one stick of butter that is softened.

Mix together and then spread out over the cooled brownies. Pop the bars in the fridge for an hour to set up for the chocolate topping.

Now the recipe called for a chocolate and butter topping. However, I had some heavy whipping cream that needed to be used up. So, I thought some chocolate ganache would do the trick.

I started by pouring 1/2 cup of cream in the bottom of a small pan and heating till it just began to boil. I killed the heat and then added one cup of dark chocolate. I used the remaining semi-sweet chips from the blondies and a few bars of dark baking chocolate. I say you want about a 1 to 2 ratio of cream to chocolate when making ganache. Let the chocolate just sit in the cream for about 10 minutes and get good and soft.

I then let the ganache sit for another 5-10 minutes before spreading over top of the peanut butter layer. Divine.

Heaven sent. I swear to you, if these aren't in heaven I will be disappointed.

Affiliate links were used in this post.

Hunk of Meat Monday: Beef Stroganoff Sandiwches from Gooseberry Patch 101 Soups, Salads & Sandwiches

2011-12-04T22:27:00.001-05:00

The week of Thanksgiving I received my first cookbook from Gooseberry Patch to review as part of the early reviewer program. This is quickly becoming my go-to weeknight cookbook. This book was MADE for the working mom. Quick, filling recipes which can also be ate on the go. This was the first recipe I tried and was eaten on the way to ballet.

So, what is this cookbook that I am in love with called, 101 Soups, Salads & Sandwiches.

The beef stroganoff sandwiches were a hit for the kids and took me 30 minutes to make and walk out the door to ballet.

I started of course by browning the hamburger in the Pampered Chef Micro Cooker that browns frozen hamburger in 7 minutes!!

While the hamburger was cooking, I prepped the bread. Now, the recipe called for French bread, but I substituted mini bagels which I have in the pantry for quick meals. I started by spreading butter on the halves of six bagels.

I then chopped up some tomatoes and green peppers for the top of the sandwiches.

When the hamburger was done, I added sour cream and seasonings to the hamburger.

I put a large scoop of the hamburger mixture on each bagel half.

I then sprinkled the diced tomatoes and green peppers along with some co-jack cheese over top of the hamburger.

I made a few with out the veggies just in case one of my kids refused the veggies for some weird reason.

I baked them on 350 for 15-20 minutes. When the cheese is melted and browned, they are good to go. And they were awesome!

Excited to see more recipes, be watching for more recipes this week and also the GIVEAWAY!! That's right, I have a book to giveaway. You will have it in time for Christmas.

Be sure to link up your Hunk of Meat Monday recipes. Can't wait to see what you are all making.

Gooseberry Patch gave me this cookbook free of charge. The opinions I am sharing are my own and not an obligation. Affiliate links have also been used in this post.

How to get great family photos

2011-12-04T16:56:00.001-05:00

So, you are contemplating getting pictures taken but just don't know if it worth the time and money? Well, I think you need to every few years just so you have something to remember you all by. If you are like me you have tons of photos but none with you in them. I wanted some pictures with my kids.

My advice, start with a great photographer who is great with kids. And we hit the jack pot folks. Angela Jackson Photography, out of Columbus, Indiana, met us one evening with her teenage daughter, Shelby, in tow. Thank goodness too. She not only helped her mom with props and lens changes and lighting but also with kid entertainment and smiles.

Take a look for yourself at the final results...

Source: blog.angelajacksonphotography.com via Leah on Pinterest

Now, sometimes the kids' behavior can be less than desirable and involve tears, pouting and refusal to smile. At this point, don't be afraid to bribe for the sake of beautiful pictures.

The clothes...came from mainly two places. My outfit is entirely from the Buckle with boots from Nine West. The hubbies jeans and t-shirt are from the Buckle and his button down shirt is from Gap. The kids's outfits are from the Gymboree Outlet store except from Boo's jeans which are Lee's. I had about 72 outfits laid out on my couch for a week trying to decide what matched without looking too matchy. Everyone got a little voting, but of course I had veto powers at all times.

I am not sure how I am going to choose. Most likely I will spend way too much on pictures. But the decision is going to be made this week. So, tell me which poses you like!

Hunk of Meat Monday: Cuban Quesadillas

2011-11-27T22:01:00.001-05:00

Who is sick of turkey? Yeah, me too. So bring on the pork people. Ham and pulled pork brought together for a match made in Cuba. Or at least I assume Cuban sandwiches are eaten in Cuba. But I don't have a panini press, so I improvised and bring you Cuban quesadillas.

I was really just winging this. So, I made these without Swiss cheese, but was really craving a Cuban so I went for some co-jack to fill in for the Swiss. I would recommend using Swiss cheese if you want the true Cuban sandwich flavor. I also couldn't decide if I should put cheese down first or ham down first.

Turns out cheese down first is the way to go. So, Start by heating up your skillet and spraying with some cooking spray. Put a six-inch flour tortilla shell in the pan. Sprinkle with Swiss cheese and then put a slice or two of ham.

Then, I had heated up some previously made pork so it wasn't ice cold when I put it on top of the ham.

I then put some mustard and dill pickle relish on top of the shredded pork.

Then topped with another slice of ham and shredded cheese.

Then top with another tortilla. I let it cook for 2-3 minutes on a medium low heat and then flipped it over. Cook for another 2-3 minutes till tortilla shells are crisp.

Now, I have one kid who doesn't like pickles and another that doesn't like mustard. Or at least so they think. So, feel free to leave off any of the mustard or pickles for picky eaters. The cheese with ham and pulled pork could also be very good, just not Cuban good:)

What do you have cooking post turkey hangover? I bet a few you of you have some great leftover recipes. Looking for some other recipes to use leftover ham you might have had for Thanksgiving? Check these recipes out!

The new teddy bear...puppy

2011-11-25T21:36:00.001-05:00

Yes, I have officially lost it. I have yet another live being in my house that I have to clean up after. But who could say no to a face like this.

The little princess in our house turns five in a few weeks. Both of the kids have been better than expected with the chores associated with their cats. So when the opportunity arose to adopt a teddy bear puppy from a friend of my husband's who had a litter he was giving away, I just knew a little girl would be over the top.

The transfer of ownership took place this morning. It was simply priceless. Daddy came in with the little critter under his jacket.

It was love at first smother.

We, of course, were not prepared with anything for a little bitty puppy. In case you are wondering, Teddy Bears are a cross between a Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. Late this afternoon, I finally trekked to town for some goods for Mister Puppy, despite the insanity of doing this on Black Friday.

And we are now those people. You know, those people who put a sweater on their puppy.

We have officially ticked off the cats.

But the kids are in love.

And we have one tired pup.

Now, we just have to name the little guy. Any suggestions?

Hunk of Meat Monday: What to do with Thanksgiving leftovers?

2011-11-20T21:17:00.001-05:00

It really is hard to believe Thanksgiving is four days away! I guess it snuck up on me since I am not cooking any turkey at my house. But, I am hoping to torture my husband with leftovers that I can steal away from the big meal.

I was inspired to start ~~plotting~~ planning what I would use all the leftover goodies for when I saw the best chicken and dumplings ever linked up by Permanent Posies to last week's Hunk of Meat Monday.

Source: permanentposies.com via Leah on Pinterest

I feel like sometimes we go into this perpetual merry go round with turkey sandwiches and turkey noodle casseroles. So, I thought I would look for some must eat, out of the box recipes for the beloved leftover turkey.

Let's begin with sandwiches.

The Turkey and Cranberry Monte Cristo

Because sweet and salty combine equals bliss. And of course these are from Paula Deen.

Source: pauladeen.com via Leah on Pinterest

Turkey, Cranberry and Brie Panini

Did somebody say brie???? This is from Baking Bites.

Source: bakingbites.com via Leah on Pinterest

The Kentucky Hot Brown...with Turkey!
Thank you Doughmestic!

Source: doughmesstic.net via Leah on Pinterest

Cranberry Pecan Turkey Salad

From one of my favorite Indy Food Bloggers, Annie's Eats. She used chicken, but turkey would be divine.

Source: annies-eats.com via Leah on Pinterest

Turkey and Pepper Jelly Sandwich

Shugary Sweets favorite sandwich!

Source: shugarysweets.com via Leah on Pinterest

Now, let's go to the beloved casseroles and savory pies.

Thanksgiving Lasagna

Layers of each leftover starting with stuffing. Gotta try this from Petite Gourmess!

Source: petitegourmess.com via Leah on Pinterest

Turkey and Sausage Pot Pie

From your's truly

Source: beyerbeware.net via Leah on Pinterest

Homestyle Turkey and Mashed Potato Bake
Just love the recipes from Hun...What's for dinner??

Source: hunwhatsfordinner.blogspot.com via Leah on Pinterest

Turkey and Cranberry Pie
This is truly Serious Eats!

Source: seriouseats.com via Leah on Pinterest

Herbed Turkey and Rice Pilaf
From my good pal, Cris at Goodenss Gracious.

Source: goodenessgracious.com via Leah on Pinterest

Turkey and Stuffing Roll Ups
From Mommy's Kitchen.

Source: mommyskitchen.net via Leah on Pinterest

Turkey Cranberry Enchiladas
Thank you Midwest Living.

Source: midwestliving.com via Leah on Pinterest

Let's see what you have cooking up this week. Can't wait to see what ideas I can steal!

Friday's Leftovers: Corn and Chicken Chowder

2011-11-18T11:39:00.000-05:00

I am sure many of you realize that if you are making a big crock pot meal sometime during the week, you get mighty sick of leftovers. So, I have decided that I have to recreate my leftovers.

Thanks to some chicken and potatoes I made in the crock pot, I had the perfect base for a chowder. This chicken and corn chowder was a big hit!

I started with frying up 3 or 4 pieces of bacon in the bottom of a large stock or soup pot.

I always cut my bacon to fry it rather than crumble it post fry. Once, it was good and crisp, I removed the bacon and left the grease. I had diced up a half of an onion and a bell pepper and tossed it into the pan.

I let the veggies get tender and then tossed two tablespoons of flour into the pan to form a roux.

Once it had formed a sticky paste, I put in about 1/2 teaspoon of cumin and mixed together.

I then poured in one can of chicken stock.

Followed by 3 cups of milk.

Stirred it all together and kept on a low heat, stirring occasionally for about 2 minutes.

Then, I grabbed a can of Rotel.

I poured the whole can into the pot without draining. Then I chopped up the leftover chicken and potatoes. Even cold, the chicken fell right off the bone. Go ahead and add the chicken and potatoes to the mix.

Stir it all together.

We freeze corn at our house, so I poured 3 cups of corn into the soup with all the good corn milk. If you don't have fresh frozen corn, I suggest you use one can of creamed corn and one can of whole corn. Or frozen. But do they make frozen creamed corn. You get my drift.

Golden goodness.

I then stirred this all together and kept the heat on low while I waited for everyone to get home.

It was a hit. Not totally sure if the husband loved that he had soup with chicken as a main course, but he ate two bowls!

We topped ours with some cheddar cheese and the bacon. Yummy!

Linked to:

Foodie Friday