You’ll find hearty chicken, beef, and bean dishes that keep you full without a pile of pans to wash. Whether you’re hitting the gym or just trying to keep your energy up through a packed week, these recipes have you covered. Load it in the morning, forget about it, and dinner makes itself.

Slow Cooker Brunswick Stew

Two protein sources in one pot — chicken and pork together — means this Southern stew delivers a serious amount of protein per bowl without requiring much effort on your end. It’s the kind of hearty, crowd-feeding dinner that makes a busy weeknight feel way more manageable.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Brunswick Stew

Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

Spice-rubbed chicken thighs slow cook into tender, pull-apart bites that are packed with protein and ready to stuff into pitas or drop into bowls. This one is great for weeknights because the crockpot does all the work while you get on with your day.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Chicken legs are a solid protein source and slow cooking them means they come out incredibly tender with barely any hands-on time required. The tangy BBQ sauce keeps things interesting without pushing the protein content down at all.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Strips of tender beef and bright bell peppers come together in a savory sauce that makes this a high-protein dinner worth skipping takeout for. The slow cooker handles everything so you can walk in the door and eat in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Three ingredients and a few hours in the crockpot are all it takes to get fall-off-the-bone ribs that are loaded with protein. No grill and no complicated prep — just set it and come back to dinner that’s ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Slow Cooker Pork Chops

These pork chops cook low and slow in a creamy mushroom sauce that keeps them tender and protein-rich from start to finish. Minimal prep time makes this one a natural fit for busy weeknight dinners when you don’t have much bandwidth.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Short ribs slow cook into fall-apart, protein-dense portions that make for a seriously hearty dinner with almost no effort involved. Load them up in the morning and come home to a meal that’s ready to serve with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Mississippi Pot Roast

Five ingredients and zero babysitting get you a fork-tender pot roast that delivers big protein portions in every slice. It’s a reliable weeknight option that also works well for meal prepping ahead of a packed week.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Pot Roast

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs bring more protein and flavor than breasts while holding up beautifully to long slow cook times. This straightforward recipe proves you don’t need complicated ingredients to hit your protein goals on a weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Asian Spare Ribs

These ribs absorb aromatic spices and sauces while cooking low and slow into tender, protein-packed portions that are worth coming home to. Set everything up before you leave and dinner is basically ready when you walk back through the door.
Get the Recipe: Asian Spare Ribs

Slow Cooker Shredded Beef

Five simple ingredients turn an affordable cut of beef into a protein-rich base you can stretch across multiple meals. Use it for tacos, sandwiches, baked potatoes — whatever works — and keep your protein intake right where you want it.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Shredded Beef

Slow Cooker Burrito Bowl

Shredded chicken, rice, beans, and corn all cook together in one pot so you get a complete, protein-heavy meal with barely any cleanup. It’s easy to customize each bowl and go back for more without second-guessing the macros.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Burrito Bowl

Beijing Beef

This homemade version skips the takeout box and gives you all the bold restaurant flavor with a much better protein-to-everything-else ratio. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting while you save money and stay on track with your nutritional goals.
Get the Recipe: Beijing Beef

Beef Stew with Squash

Chunks of beef and butternut squash slow cook together into a rich, hearty stew that brings serious protein to the table on cooler evenings. The broth ties everything together while keeping the focus on that tender, filling beef.
Get the Recipe: Beef Stew with Squash

Slow Cooker Egg Roll in a Bowl

You get all the savory flavor of egg rolls here but without the wrapper, so the focus stays on protein and vegetables instead. This one reheats really well throughout the week which makes it a smart pick for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Egg Roll in a Bowl

Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Beef tips become incredibly tender after hours in the crockpot and come loaded with protein that works well for a filling weeknight dinner. Serve them over cauliflower rice or alongside vegetables and you’ve got a solid meal that holds up for leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Tips

Slow Cooker Pork Loin

Bacon-wrapped pork loin gives you protein from two sources at once and the slow cooker keeps everything moist and ready by the time you get home. It looks impressive on the plate but takes almost no effort to put together before work.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Loin

Beef Goulash

Tender chunks of beef in a rich paprika sauce make this Hungarian-inspired stew a protein-dense dinner that gets better the longer it simmers. Let the slow cooker run all day and come home to a hearty meal that’s ready to serve right away.
Get the Recipe: Beef Goulash

Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken

Budget-friendly chicken thighs soak up bold Caribbean spices during a long, slow cook and come out juicy and high in protein every single time. This one punches well above its price point and fits perfectly into a busy weeknight dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken

The post 19 High-Protein Crockpot Meals for Busy Nights appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

I make this on the nights I’m tired of my own dinner rotation. You know, when you get into that rut of making the same five meals on repeat until everyone is completely bored and disinterested. This easy slow cooker dinner changes things up with a dish that is a fabulous break from standard American cooking, but still super easy to make.

Tikka masala looks like a restaurant dish, so you might think it is complicated, but it isn’t. You brown nothing and fuss over nothing. You stir the spices into the sauce, add the chicken, and let the slow cooker do the long, low work that makes the meat fork-tender. 

And while the list of ingredients looks long, it is basically just chicken, tomatoes, cream, and an (admittedly lengthy) list of spices. It is a simple way to make budget-friendly chicken into something completely different. Make a big batch, and the leftovers taste just as good the next day.

Below I’ll walk you through the ingredients, the simple steps, and a few ways to adjust the heat. Serve it over rice or with warm naan, and you’ve got a dinner that feels like a treat without asking much of you.

Ingredient Notes

For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below

• Chicken: Either boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well in this recipe.
• Onion
• Serrano peppers
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Tomatoes
• Tomato Paste
• Seasoning: The tikka masala is seasoned with garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
• Heavy Cream
• Cilantro

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

1. Start by adding your bite-sized chicken pieces to the slow cooker. Toss in the diced onion, finely diced Serrano pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger right on top of the chicken. 
2. In a medium bowl, combine the can of diced tomatoes (including the juices), tomato paste, garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir it all together until the tomato paste is fully incorporated and you have a thick, fragrant sauce.
3. Pour the tomato-spice mixture over the chicken and aromatics in the slow cooker. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to stir everything together, making sure the chicken pieces are well coated with the sauce.
4. Put the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours. 
5. When your timer goes off, remove the lid and stir. Let the slow cooker cool for about 10 minutes with the lid off. Then pour the heavy cream into the slow cooker and gently stir to combine. 
6. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro (or parsley) over the top for a fresh finish.

Serving Ideas

The creamy, spiced sauce of chicken tikka masala works with so many accompaniments. Rice is the go-to base, and basmati rice is my favorite. The long grains soak up the sauce without getting mushy. 

Now, if you want to get a little fancier with your sides, naan bread is where it’s at. I grab some from the bakery section of the grocery store. You tear off a piece, dip it into the sauce, and suddenly you’ve got yourself a handheld masterpiece.

I like to have extra toppings available, including: 

• Fresh chopped cilantro
• Plain Greek yogurt for a cooling contrast
• Extra Serrano peppers if you like heat
• Red pepper flakes for those who want even more kick
• Samosas as an easy side dish.

For a heartier (but less authentic) meal, you can stir in vegetables during cooking. Potatoes, cauliflower, bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or green peas all work wonderfully. The vegetables cook down into the sauce and add substance to what’s already a satisfying dish.

How to Store

Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days when stored in a sealed container. To reheat, put your leftovers into a pot on the stovetop over medium heat and stir occasionally until everything is heated through. 

This method works so much better than the microwave because you won’t end up with hot spots and cold spots. Plus, you get to taste it as it warms up, which means you can adjust seasonings if needed.

It also freezes well for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat the same way you would with regular leftovers. The cream-based sauce holds up, though I’ve noticed the spices taste a touch more muted after freezing, so you might want to add more seasoning when you reheat.

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Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

This easy crockpot chicken tikka masala tastes like takeout but cooks itself. No browning, budget-friendly chicken, and leftovers just as good the next day.

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Calories 280kcal

Author Annie

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion diced
• 1 Serrano pepper seeded and finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated or finely minced
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes 1 can
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon dried coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or to taste
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• Fresh chopped cilantro for topping

Instructions

• Place the chicken, onions, Serrano pepper, garlic, and ginger into the Crockpot.
  2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1 onion, 1 Serrano pepper, 4 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
• In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Pour over the chicken and stir together.
  14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, 4 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 tablespoon garam masala, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon dried coriander, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours, until chicken is tender.
• Take the lid off and let it cool for 10 minutes. Add the heavy cream and gently stir to combine.
  ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• Top with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve over rice.
  Fresh chopped cilantro

Notes

• If you have an extra 10 minutes and want more traditional Indian flavor, sear your chicken pieces in a hot skillet with a bit of oil before adding them to the Crockpot. This creates those slightly charred edges that help give tikka masala its signature flavor.
• Don’t add cold cream directly to a piping hot slow cooker. Either let the sauce cool for about 10 minutes before stirring in the cream, or warm the cream on the stovetop first. Both methods work perfectly.
• The Serrano pepper and red pepper flakes give this dish a nice kick, but you can adjust the spice level. If you’re cooking for kids or anyone who prefers milder flavors, skip the Serrano pepper entirely and use just ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (or leave them out altogether). 
• Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts in the slow cooker. They stay juicier and are harder to overcook. So if it is a day you might be running late getting home, choose chicken thighs.
• This is a recipe that’s perfect for meal prep. Dice the chicken and onions, mince the garlic and ginger, and measure out all the spices the night before. Put everything goes in a container in the fridge, and in the morning, dump it all in the Crockpot.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 119mg | Sodium: 676mg | Potassium: 892mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 843IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 62mg | Iron: 2mg

The post The Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala That Cooks Itself appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

You’ll find takeout classics, sit-down favorites, and a few better-than-the-original picks that everyone at the table actually wants. No wait list, no tip, no upsell on drinks, just the food they ask for on repeat. Make one this week and see if anyone notices it didn’t come in a to-go bag.

Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich

This copycat Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich is one of the best ways to bring a fast-food favorite to your family dinner table without leaving the house. Made in the air fryer, it comes together quickly with a crispy coating and juicy chicken that rivals the real thing.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich

Nandos Peri Peri Chicken

Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken is a restaurant classic that translates beautifully into a weeknight family dinner at home. The air fryer does the heavy lifting here, delivering tender chicken coated in a bold, fiery sauce with a satisfying crispy finish in no time.
Get the Recipe: Nandos Peri Peri Chicken

Chick-fil-A Tortilla Soup

This copycat Chick-fil-A Tortilla Soup brings one of the chain’s most beloved menu items straight to your dinner table. It’s the kind of hearty, comforting soup the whole family will ask for on repeat, with all that familiar flavor packed into every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Tortilla Soup

Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli is a restaurant staple that’s even better when you can make it at home in the slow cooker. Tender pasta, creamy beans, and savory beef all come together in a rich tomato broth that makes for a hearty family dinner with almost no effort.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli

Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

This slow cooker copycat of Olive Garden’s chicken pasta is a family dinner dream, with fall-apart tender chicken simmering all day in a creamy, cheesy sauce. You just set it up in the morning and come home to a restaurant-quality meal that’s ready to serve.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

P.F. Chang Mongolian Beef

This air fryer take on P.F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef gets dinner on the table in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy family nights. Crispy beef coated in a sweet and salty sauce is the kind of crowd-pleasing dish that makes skipping the restaurant an easy call.
Get the Recipe: P.F. Chang Mongolian Beef

Cafe Rio Sweet Pork

Cafe Rio’s Sweet Pork is a fan favorite for a reason, and this slow cooker version makes it totally doable for a weeknight family dinner. Toss a handful of ingredients together, let the slow cooker do the work, and you’ve got tender, flavorful pork that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls.
Get the Recipe: Cafe Rio Sweet Pork

Chilis Monterey Chicken

This skillet copycat of Chili’s Monterey Chicken brings all the good stuff to your family dinner table in just 30 minutes. Juicy chicken topped with BBQ sauce, melted cheese, bacon, and fresh toppings is the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy.
Get the Recipe: Chilis Monterey Chicken

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf is the kind of homestyle comfort food that feels made for a family dinner, and this copycat version nails that classic flavor. It’s perfectly seasoned and straightforward to put together, making it a reliable go-to when you want something hearty and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

P.F. Chang Kung Pao Chicken

This air fryer version of P.F. Chang’s Kung Pao Chicken brings a restaurant-worthy meal to your family dinner with a healthier cooking method and bold flavor. Crispy chicken tossed in a rich, spiced sauce comes together right in your own kitchen without the takeout bill.
Get the Recipe: P.F. Chang Kung Pao Chicken

Chipotle Carnitas

This slow cooker copycat of Chipotle Carnitas gives you all that bold, tender pork flavor at home for a fraction of the restaurant price. It’s a great option for a family dinner spread since it works just as well in tacos, burritos, or rice bowls.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Carnitas

Chipotle Barbacoa

Chipotle’s Barbacoa is one of those restaurant dishes that’s hard to stop thinking about, and this slow cooker version makes it easy to recreate at home. Tender, juicy beef packed with deep flavor is ready to fill tacos, burritos, or bowls for the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Barbacoa

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken

This homemade version of Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken brings a take-out favorite right to your family dinner table without the drive. Tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce come together quickly and are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken

Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup

Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup is one of the most requested items on the menu, and this slow cooker copycat makes it easy to serve at home. A creamy broth loaded with chicken, soft gnocchi, and vegetables makes it a cozy, filling option for family dinner any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

This Instant Pot take on Olive Garden’s Minestrone Soup comes together in just 30 minutes and is loaded with vegetables and flavor. It’s a quick, no-fuss family dinner option that brings that familiar restaurant taste home in a single pot.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Panda Express Beef and Broccoli

This copycat Panda Express Beef and Broccoli is a weeknight family dinner winner that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Packed with flavor and kid-friendly, it’s the kind of fast, crowd-pleasing meal that makes you wonder why you ever ordered takeout in the first place.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Beef and Broccoli

Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana

Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana is one of those restaurant soups that people genuinely look forward to, and this Instant Pot version puts it on your family dinner table in about 30 minutes. Rich, hearty, and easy to customize, it’s a quick win for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana

Arby’s Beef ‘n Cheddar

This slow cooker copycat of Arby’s Beef ‘n Cheddar takes a classic fast-food sandwich and turns it into an effortless family dinner at home. Tender roast beef piled onto toasted buns with creamy cheese sauce is a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Arby’s Beef ‘n Cheddar

Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is one of those restaurant classics that hits differently when you make it yourself at home. Rich, cheesy, and velvety with every spoonful, it’s a cozy family dinner option that delivers all the comfort of the original without the trip.
Get the Recipe: Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Panda Express Orange Chicken

This Instant Pot version of Panda Express Orange Chicken brings one of the most popular fast-casual dishes straight to your family dinner table in about 45 minutes. Every bite bursts with that sweet and tangy orange flavor that makes this dish such a consistent crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Orange Chicken

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings is the kind of classic comfort food that belongs at a family dinner table, and this copycat recipe makes it completely doable at home. Tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy broth come together in a dish that feels like a big, hearty hug.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

The post Copycat Restaurant Recipes That Beat Takeout appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

Whether you’re feeding a packed parking lot or just your crew of ten, these recipes hold up like champs on game day. You’ll find creamy dips, cheesy dips, and a few sturdy scoop-and-go options that travel without making a mess. Make them ahead, load the cooler, and show up ready to eat.

Texas Caviar Dip

Packed with black-eyed peas, beans, and fresh vegetables, this Texas Caviar is one of those dips that actually gets better as it sits — making it a natural fit for a make-ahead tailgate spread. Mix it up the night before, pack it in a sealed container, and you’ve got a hearty, crowd-pleasing scoop that holds up well in a cooler.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar Dip

Salsa Ranchera

Charred tomatoes, peppers, and onions come together in this chunky, bold salsa that puts store-bought to shame — and it’s ready in 20 minutes. Make it ahead, let the flavors settle overnight, and pack it cold for a tailgate dip that tastes like it took way more effort than it did.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Ranchera

Boom Boom Sauce

Sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy, this homemade Boom Boom Sauce is the kind of dip that disappears fast once it hits the tailgate table. It costs next to nothing to make, comes together in minutes, and stores beautifully in the fridge until game day.
Get the Recipe: Boom Boom Sauce

Baba Ganoush

This air fryer baba ganoush turns eggplant into a creamy, deeply flavored Mediterranean dip that’s ready in under an hour. It actually tastes better after a night in the fridge, so making it ahead for your tailgate is the move.
Get the Recipe: Baba Ganoush

Buffalo Ranch Dip

If your crew likes heat with a creamy edge, this Buffalo Ranch Dip delivers exactly that — fiery buffalo sauce balanced with cool, herby ranch. Mix it up the day before, toss it in the cooler, and let it do its thing while you focus on everything else game day throws at you.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Ranch Dip

Chick-fil-A Sauce

This copycat Chick-fil-A sauce nails that tangy, sweet, slightly smoky flavor using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. It takes minutes to stir together and packs up perfectly for a tailgate dipping spread that’ll have people asking what’s in it.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Sauce

Blue Cheese Dip

Bold, creamy, and ready in five minutes, this blue cheese dip is built with real blue cheese, garlic, and lemon — and it absolutely buries anything from a store shelf. Make it the night before and it only gets better, which makes it a no-brainer addition to any tailgate cooler.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Dip

Whipped Feta Dip

Light, creamy, and packed with sharp, salty flavor, this whipped feta dip is the kind of thing that looks impressive on a tailgate spread but takes almost no effort to pull together. Make it ahead, pack it cold, and serve it with pita chips or sliced veggies for an easy crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta Dip

Everything Bagel Dip

All the savory, herby, garlicky flavor of an everything bagel gets packed into this creamy dip that works with basically any dipper you bring to the tailgate. It’s quick to put together, stores well in the fridge overnight, and travels without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Everything Bagel Dip

Flag Bean Dip

Layers of creamy refried beans, salsa, and cheese make this Flag Bean Dip a hearty and crowd-friendly option that fits right into a tailgate spread. Assemble it the night before, cover it tight, and it’s ready to go straight from the cooler when the tailgate kicks off.
Get the Recipe: Flag Bean Dip

Hot Honey Buffalo Sauce

This hot honey buffalo sauce brings serious heat balanced with a touch of natural sweetness — and it works as a dip, a glaze, or a drizzle over whatever you’re serving at the tailgate. Make a big batch ahead of time and pack it in a jar so it’s ready to go the moment the grill fires up.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Buffalo Sauce

Garlic Aioli Sauce

Rich, creamy, and loaded with bold garlic flavor, this homemade aioli is the kind of dip that goes with everything on a tailgate spread — from veggies to chicken skewers to crusty bread. It takes just a few minutes to whip up and keeps well in the fridge, so there’s no reason to reach for the store-bought version.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli Sauce

Blooming Onion Sauce

This creamy, slightly spiced dipping sauce is built for the tailgate — it pairs well with fried appetizers, raw veggies, and pretty much anything else on the spread. Make a big batch ahead of time and pack it in a lidded container so it’s ready to go when the crowd shows up hungry.
Get the Recipe: Blooming Onion Sauce

Cottage Cheese Dip

Two ingredients and five minutes are all it takes to make this creamy cottage cheese ranch dip — and the fact that it’s loaded with protein makes it a solid choice for a long tailgate day. It blends into a smooth, flavorful dip that holds up well in the cooler and works great with chips, crackers, or sliced veggies.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Dip

Onion Dill Dip

Fresh dill and savory onion come together in this cool, creamy dip that’s a reliable addition to any tailgate snack lineup. Make it the day before so the flavors have time to meld, then pack it up and let it do the work for you.
Get the Recipe: Onion Dill Dip

The post 15 Make-Ahead Tailgate Dips for Game Day appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

It’s easy to fall into a cooking rut, especially when you’re trying to balance a busy schedule with putting a hearty meal on the table. But it’s time to shake up your meal plan and bring some excitement back to your dinner table with some fresh and surprising slow cooker recipes.

This list of crock pot recipes will spark your creativity and give you new ideas. From savory, fall-off-the-bone ribs to an unexpected twist on pizza night, these meals promise to make your slow cooker the hero of your kitchen once again.

Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Forget the usual slow cooker meals, these short ribs are a game changer. They come out so tender in a rich sauce, and it’s a breeze to get them started.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Crock Pot Ramen

Ramen in a slow cooker is a fun twist you’ll want to try. It’s super easy to throw together, and you end up with a hot, flavorful bowl that’ll surprise everyone.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Ramen

Buffalo Chicken Chili

Give chili night a kick with this Buffalo Chicken Chili. It’s full of spice and everything nice for a game day that’s anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Chili

Slow Cooker Barbacoa

This slow cooker barbacoa is a hands-down hit for taco night. It’s simple to make and packs in so much flavor, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Barbacoa

Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Sandwiches

These BBQ beef sandwiches will have everyone coming back for seconds. Slow-cooked to perfection and topped with crispy onions and bacon, they’re a great pick for any meal where you want to impress.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Sandwiches

Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti

Who knew spaghetti could get even better in a crock pot? This chicken spaghetti is creamy, comforting, and sure to shake up your weekly menu.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chicken Spaghetti

Asian Spare Ribs

These Asian Spare Ribs will make you forget about takeout. Just set them in the slow cooker and let the magic happen, resulting in a dish that’s loaded with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Asian Spare Ribs

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Transform your slow cooker into a Mexican fiesta with this Street Corn Soup. It’s a hearty, tasty surprise that’s perfect for when you want something different.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup

Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Country Style Ribs in the slow cooker are a surefire way to please a crowd. They’re slathered in a sweet and tangy sauce that makes them anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Crock Pot Pizza

Pizza from a crock pot? Yes, and it’s amazing. This is a great way to get your pizza fix without any of the hassle of baking.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Pizza

Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Pasta

This Cajun Chicken Pasta is a slow cooker standout. It’s got all the creamy, spicy goodness you crave, and it’s a cinch to put together.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Pasta

Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing

Break out of the dinner doldrums with this chicken and stuffing from a crock pot. It’s a comforting combo that’s super simple to make and far from boring.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing

Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

You can nail that Olive Garden flavor right in your own kitchen with this slow cooker chicken pasta. It’s creamy, cheesy, and the chicken falls apart it’s so tender.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

The post 13 Crock Pot Recipes That Break the Dinner Rut: Ribs, Soup, Pasta, and Pizza Night appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

I started making these because I got tired of bringing the same veggie tray to every gathering. Plus something about putting a salad on a stick changes the whole equation. My oldest daughter won’t touch a bowl of lettuce, but she’ll grab a skewer off the counter without thinking twice.

What makes these skewers absolutely brilliant is how they solve the biggest wedge salad problem. You know, that awkward moment when you’re trying to cut through a massive chunk of iceberg lettuce while your toppings slide everywhere. By threading bite-sized pieces onto skewers, you get all those amazing flavors in every single bite.

These also do double duty as a side dish. Set a few next to burgers or grilled chicken, and you’ve covered your vegetables without having to cook one more thing.

Below I’ll walk you through how to build them, the trick to getting bacon that stays put on the skewer, and a few swaps if blue cheese isn’t your crowd’s thing. These take everything you love about the classic steakhouse favorite and turn it into grab-and-go perfection.

Ingredient Notes

For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below

• Cocktail tomatoes: I like using cocktail tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes because they’re slightly larger.
• Iceberg lettuce: Yes, iceberg! It’s crisp, crunchy, and holds its shape perfectly on these skewers. Plus, it doesn’t wilt or get soggy while sitting out at a party.
• Bacon
• Red onion
• Blue cheese dressing

How to Make Wedge Salad Skewers

1. Cut your bacon into bite-sized pieces. Aim for pieces that are about an inch long. 
2. Cut the iceberg lettuce into wedges that are roughly 1½ to 2 inches in size. I find it easiest to cut the half head into quarters first, then cut each quarter into smaller wedges. Don’t stress about making them all the same size. Dice your red onion into small pieces.
3. Take a 6-inch skewer and thread on a cocktail tomato first. Push it down about an inch from the bottom of the skewer so you have room to hold it. Next, add a wedge of lettuce, followed by a piece or two of diced red onion, and finish with a piece of bacon on top. 
4. Continue making skewers with the same order until you’ve used up all your ingredients.

Serving Ideas

These wedge salad skewers are the perfect handheld appetizer for anyone who wants to eat something green without feeling like they’re missing out on the fun. They work beautifully for casual entertaining. 

Arrange them on a platter with a small bowl of blue cheese dressing nestled in the center, and guests can grab one and dip as they please. No forks required, no mess on the furniture (well, mostly). 

For a game day spread, arrange the skewers on a large cutting board alongside other finger foods. They go great with pulled pork sliders, burgers, or grilled chicken. The cool, crisp lettuce and juicy tomato offer a refreshing contrast to heavier foods.

You can also dress these up for more formal occasions. Use tiered platters for height and visual interest. The individual portions feel elegant without requiring any plating skills. If you’re feeding a crowd of 20 or more double or triple the recipe. The prep is so quick that scaling up won’t stress you out.

How to Store

As you might expect, these skewers are best served fresh. The lettuce stays crisp, the tomatoes maintain their juicy texture, and the bacon keeps its slight crunch when you assemble them right before serving.

If you need to prep ahead, I recommend assembling the components separately and storing them in the refrigerator. Keep the cooked bacon pieces in an airtight container for up to three days. 

Store your lettuce wedges in a container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture, and they’ll stay fresh for a day. The tomatoes and diced red onion can live in separate containers for up to three days as well.

When you’re ready to serve, thread everything onto the skewers. This takes just a few minutes and ensures you get that perfect combination of crisp lettuce and fresh tomato flavors that make these skewers so appealing.

If you’ve already assembled the skewers, store them on a covered platter in the refrigerator for no more than two hours before serving. The lettuce won’t be as crisp after that. The blue cheese dressing should stay separate until serving time. Keep it in its original container or transfer it to a small bowl with a lid.

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Wedge Salad Skewers Recipe

Wedge salad skewers stack crisp iceberg, bacon, red onion, and tomato with blue cheese dressing. An easy no-fork appetizer you can prep in 10 minutes.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 20

Calories 28kcal

Author Annie

Ingredients

• 20 cocktail tomatoes
• ½ head iceberg lettuce
• 5 slices bacon cooked
• ¼ red onion
• Blue cheese dressing for serving

Instructions

• Cut the bacon into pieces about an inch long.
• Cut the iceberg lettuce into wedges about 1½ to 2 inches in size. Dice the red onion into small pieces.
• Take a 6-inch skewer and thread on a tomato, followed by a wedge of lettuce. Add a red onion and finish with a piece of bacon.
  20 cocktail tomatoes, ½ head iceberg lettuce, 5 slices bacon, ¼ red onion
• Continue to make skewers until you run out of ingredients.
• Serve on a tray with blue cheese dressing for drizzling or dipping.
  Blue cheese dressing

Notes

• Cook your bacon until it’s crispy but not overly brittle. You want it to hold together when you cut it into pieces. I usually cook mine in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, which gives me perfectly crispy bacon every time.
• When cutting the lettuce, you want pieces that are substantial enough to stay intact when you pierce them with the skewer. Aim for that 1½ to 2 inch range. 
• The blue cheese dressing is what makes a wedge salad a wedge salad. I like to serve it in a small bowl on the side so people can dip or drizzle as they please. 
• You can arrange these skewers standing up in a glass or jar filled with dried beans or rice for a fun vertical display. Or lay them flat on a platter.

Nutrition

Calories: 28kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 40mg | Potassium: 69mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 153IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.2mg

The post Steakhouse Wedge Salad Skewers (Easy 10 Minute Appetizer) appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

I’ve been on a serious chicken salad kick lately. It’s easy on the wallet, it fills me up, and I can make it once and eat it for days. But I get bored fast, so I keep switching things up, and this version might be my favorite yet.

The honey and two kinds of mustard do the heavy lifting here. Dijon brings the sharp bite, whole-grain mustard adds little pops of texture, and the honey rounds it all out so it’s balanced rather than harsh. It doesn’t taste like the average chicken salad.

If your idea of chicken salad is a sad, mayo-heavy scoop, this one will change your mind. The honey mustard brings tang and a little kick, the apples add crunch and a touch of sweet, and the pecans give it a toasted, buttery bite. It’s the same easy, make-ahead meal you already rely on, just nothing like last week’s.

Best of all, it comes together in minutes, and if you grab a rotisserie chicken, you can skip the cooking entirely. Below I’ll walk you through the ingredients, a few easy swaps, and how to keep it fresh all week. Grab a rotisserie chicken on the way home, and this is barely cooking at all.

Ingredient Notes

For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below

• Shredded cooked chicken: A rotisserie chicken is the easy route and adds extra flavor with no effort. Leftover baked or poached chicken works just as well.
• Dijon mustard and whole grain mustard: Using both is the trick. Dijon adds smoothness, and the whole grain adds little bursts of texture and bite.
• Honey
• Mayonnaise
• Apple cider vinegar
• Apple: Pick a crisp variety like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji, so it holds up.
• Celery
• Red onion
• Pecans
• Garlic powder
• Pepper

How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

1. Add the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, whole-grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and pepper to a large bowl. Whisk until the dressing is smooth.
2. Stir in the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, apple, and pecans. Stir until everything is completely coated in the dressing.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes, or until you’re ready to eat.

Serving Ideas

My favorite way to eat this is to pile it onto a flaky croissant or whole-wheat bread, which turns it into a proper lunch with almost no effort. It’s just as good stuffed into a wrap.

For something lighter, spoon it into lettuce wraps or serve it over a bowl of mixed greens. And when I want a snack, I scoop it up with crackers straight from the bowl. It travels well too, so it’s a good one for packed lunches and picnics.

How to Store

Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. It’s an excellent make-ahead dish too. Give it a quick stir before serving, since the dressing tends to settle.

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Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Honey Mustard Chicken Salad comes together in 10 minutes with rotisserie chicken, crisp apple, and pecans. Two kinds of mustard keep it from tasting boring.

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Chilling Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 595kcal

Author Annie

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 pound cooked chicken shredded
• ½ cup celery diced
• ½ cup red onion diced
• ½ cup apple diced
• ⅓ cup pecans chopped

Instructions

• Add the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and pepper to a large bowl and whisk.
  2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons honey, ¾ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon pepper
• Add in the cooked shredded chicken, the celery, red onion, apple, and pecans and stir until completely coated.
  1 pound cooked chicken, ½ cup celery, ½ cup red onion, ½ cup apple, ⅓ cup pecans
• Place in the refrigerator for 15 minutes or until you are ready to serve. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

• Grab a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and effort.
• Keep the celery, apple, and onion finely diced so every bite has a good mix of flavor and crunch.
• Give it at least 15 minutes in the fridge before serving so the flavors come together.
• Toast the pecans in a dry pan for a few minutes first if you want deeper flavor and more crunch.
• Add the diced apple close to serving if you’re making it far ahead, so it stays crisp.

Nutrition

Calories: 595kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 45g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 22g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 103mg | Sodium: 529mg | Potassium: 427mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 157IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Honey Mustard Chicken Salad (No Cooking Needed) appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

You’ll find everything from classic cheese and pepperoni to puff pastry pizzas, pizza-inspired dinners, and a few fun ideas for when you want to change things up. They keep the prep low so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time actually eating together. Pick one, let everyone build their own, and call it a good night.

Pulled Pork Pizza

BBQ pulled pork pizza is a great way to put leftover pork to work on pizza night without repeating the same old dinner. Pile it onto pizza dough with BBQ sauce, veggies, and melted cheese for a family meal that feels like a completely fresh idea.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Pizza

Crock Pot Pizza

If you want all the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza night without turning on the oven, this slow cooker version has you covered. Load it up in the morning and come back to a melty, fully cooked pizza that did its thing while you handled everything else.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Pizza

Air Fryer Frozen Pizza Rolls

Pizza rolls in the air fryer come out perfectly crispy on the outside in about 10 minutes with almost no effort. These bite-sized snacks are a go-to for pizza night when you need something quick that the whole family will actually eat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Pizza Rolls

French Bread Pizza

French bread pizza swaps out the usual dough for crusty bread and still delivers all the gooey, cheesy results you want on pizza night. With just 4 ingredients and a super fast cook time, it’s a solid weeknight option when takeout isn’t in the budget.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza

Air Fryer Pizza

Air fryer pizza gets dinner on the table fast without heating up the whole kitchen, which makes it a smart move for busy weeknights. Whether you use store-bought dough or a premade crust, this method keeps pizza night simple and quick.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza

Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

This copycat Mexican pizza brings a fun spin to pizza night by layering seasoned meat, beans, and cheese between crispy tortillas. You can bake it in the oven or cook it in the air fryer, making it a flexible option the whole family can get behind.
Get the Recipe: Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

Cast iron skillet pizza gives you a seriously crispy bottom crust and a chewy center without needing any special pizza equipment. It comes together fast and tastes way better than anything showing up at your door in a box.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

Mini Biscuit Pizzas

Mini biscuit pizzas are a fun way to shake up pizza night by using refrigerator biscuits as the base and letting everyone build their own. They cook in just 4 minutes in the air fryer and work just as well as a snack as they do a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Mini Biscuit Pizzas

Pizza Fries

Pizza fries take everything you love about pizza night and load it onto crispy fries instead of dough. Topped with mozzarella, marinara, and classic pizza toppings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for game day or any weeknight when you want something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Fries

Naan Pizza

Naan pizza is a fast and easy way to get pizza night on the table in about 10 minutes using flatbread as the base. The personal-sized portions are great for families where everyone has their own topping preferences and nobody wants to compromise.
Get the Recipe: Naan Pizza

Pizza Garlic Bread

Pizza garlic bread combines two crowd favorites into one quick air fryer recipe that works great for pizza night. Crispy garlic bread gets topped with pizza sauce, cheese, and your favorite fixings, and it’s ready in just a few minutes.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Garlic Bread

Reuben Pizza Rolls

Reuben pizza rolls wrap corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut inside pizza dough for a hearty handheld addition to pizza night. They’re easy to make and bring a bold, savory flavor that stands out from the usual pizza options.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Pizza Rolls

Puff Pastry Pizza

Puff pastry pizza brings a flaky, buttery crust to pizza night that’s a real step away from regular dough. This veggie-topped version is light enough to serve as an appetizer or as a simple dinner, and that crispy texture makes it hard to stop at one slice.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Pizza

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza

Chicken bacon ranch pizza is a crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together quickly using leftover chicken and store-bought dough. The combination of bacon, ranch, and melted cheese makes it an easy go-to for pizza night that the whole family will ask for again.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza

Pizza Bubble Up

Pizza bubble up casserole layers canned biscuits with pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings into one easy baked dish that’s perfect for pizza night. It’s a familiar, comforting meal that comes together without much effort and feeds the whole family from a single pan.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Bubble Up

Ham and Cheese Pizza Rolls

Ham and cheese pizza rolls are a great addition to pizza night when you want something handheld and easy to share. Melty cheese and salty ham rolled up in golden pizza dough work as an appetizer, after-school snack, or a quick lunch any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Pizza Rolls

Leftover Turkey Pizza

Leftover turkey pizza is a smart way to skip takeout and put extra turkey to good use on pizza night. Turkey, bacon, spinach, peppers, and cheese come together on premade dough for a quick and satisfying dinner that doesn’t feel like leftovers at all.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Pizza

The post 17 Easy Pizza Night Recipes for the Whole Family appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

My family and I got hooked on these at a Renaissance festival a few summers ago. So when we got home, I figured there had to be a way to skip the high fair price and make them myself. But turkey drumsticks are almost always deep-fried, which means a lot of oil and a lot of cleanup. 

The air fryer gets me that same fair taste at home in under 40 minutes, no deep frying required. These are perfect for a weeknight because they cook fast, need no oil, and give you a pile of dark meat without the hassle of roasting a whole bird. 

If your family fights over the drumsticks at Thanksgiving (mine sure does), this is how you keep the peace. Make a few extra, and skip the drama and whining about who took the last drumstick. 

Keep reading, and I’ll show you the simple steps to make air fryer turkey drumsticks, along with the mistakes that can dry them out. These are fast, mess-free, and turn an ordinary weeknight into something that feels like a treat.

Ingredient Notes

For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below

• Turkey drumsticks: Look for these in the poultry section of most grocery stores. Mine usually sells them in packs of 2 or 3, so plan your grocery trip around how many people you’re feeding.
• Butter or olive oil: This helps the spices stick to the meat and helps the skin crisp up in the air fryer.
• Paprika
• Salt
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper

Want to switch up the flavor? Skip down to the seasoning variations section for four different spice combos that all work with this same method.

How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Legs

1. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe dish if you’re using butter instead of oil.
2. Stir the paprika, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper into the melted butter or olive oil.
3. Pat the turkey legs dry with a paper towel.
4. Brush the seasoned butter or oil all over the legs, then pull back the skin and brush some underneath as well so the meat gets seasoned, too.
5. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easier cleanup. You can buy parchment precut to fit inside most baskets.
6. Put the legs in the basket without crowding them. My air fryer fits 3 drumsticks without crowding, but a smaller or circular basket may only fit 2. The air needs room to circulate around each piece.
7. Air fry at 390 F for 25 minutes. Flip halfway through if you want more even browning, though it isn’t required.
8. Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. It should read 165°F. There’s no visual cue to tell when these are done, so don’t skip this step.
9. If they’re under temp, air-fry for another 5 to 10 minutes, then check again.
10. Let the legs rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t crowd the basket. The air needs to circulate each drumstick, or the skin ends up soggy instead of crisp.
• I never skip checking with the thermometer. There’s no way to eyeball doneness on a turkey leg, so I always check for 165 F before I call it done.
• Pat the legs dry before seasoning them. Skipping this step means the butter or oil slides right off instead of helping the skin crisp.
• I season under the skin, not just on top. If you only brush the outside, the meat underneath ends up bland.
• Let the legs rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting in. Skipping the rest means the juices run out instead of staying in the meat.

Serving Ideas

I serve turkey legs with almost any side dish I have on hand. For a Thanksgiving feel, I make mashed potatoes and cornbread stuffing to go with them, and nobody misses the oven-roasted whole bird.

When I want more of a picnic vibe, I pair them with potato salad and broccoli salad. It feels like a backyard cookout even in the middle of the week.

And if I’m leaning into the state fair theme, I’ll add an air fryer blooming onion to start and fried Oreos for dessert. It’s the closest I get to a state fair without leaving my kitchen.

How to Store

Leftovers keep in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil so the meat doesn’t dry out.

You can eat leftovers cold or reheat them in the air fryer at 360°F for 5 to 10 minutes to keep the skin crispy. I like piling leftover turkey onto a turkey club sandwich, or pulling the meat off the bone for turkey soup.

Seasoning Variations

You can vary the seasoning to taste; use about 2 teaspoons of spices in total, whichever combination you pick.

• Cajun: 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
• Old Bay: 1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
• Montreal: 2 teaspoons Montreal spicy steak seasoning.
• Classic: 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.

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Air Fryer Turkey Legs Recipe

Crispy air fryer turkey legs in 25 minutes at 390 F. Simple seasoning, no oil mess, and a thermometer trick so drumsticks never dry out.

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword Thanksgiving, turkey legs

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 3

Calories 1112kcal

Author Annie

Ingredients

• 3 Turkey Legs
• 4 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• If using butter put it in a small microwave safe bowl melt microwave it until it is melted.
  4 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• Add the seasonings to the melted butter or oil and stir to combine.
  1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pat the legs dry with a paper towel. Brush the seasoning mixture all over the drumsticks. Pull the skin back and brush a little bit underneath.
  3 Turkey Legs
• Use parchment paper in the bottom of the air fryer basket if desired to make cleanup easier.
• Put the legs in the air fryer basket and air fry at 390 for 25-30 minutes.
• The legs are done when they reach an internal temp of 165 degrees F. Always check the temperature with a meat thermometer, don’t just go based on cooking time.
• If the drumsticks need more cooking time return them to the air fryer for another 5-10 minutes additional time and check the internal temp again.
• Let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Seasoning variations

• Cajun – 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Old Bay – 1 ½ teaspoon Old Bay, ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Montreal – 2 teaspoons Montreal spicy steak seasoning
• Classic – 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper

 

Notes

• Don’t crowd the basket. The air needs to circulate each drumstick, or the skin ends up soggy instead of crisp.
• I never skip the thermometer. There’s no way to eyeball doneness on a turkey leg, so I always check for 165 F before I call it done.
• I always pat the legs dry before seasoning them. Skipping this step means the butter or oil slides right off instead of helping the skin crisp.
• I season under the skin, not just on top. If you only brush the outside, the meat underneath ends up bland.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 1112kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 133g | Fat: 61g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 521mg | Sodium: 1009mg | Potassium: 1874mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 816IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 122mg | Iron: 12mg

The post Air Fryer Turkey Drumsticks: Crispy Skin Without Deep Frying appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

I’ve put together a collection of 17 creative canned biscuit recipes you will love. From savory appetizers to sweet desserts, these recipes will inspire you to think outside the box and get creative in the kitchen. So grab a can of refrigerator biscuits and start cooking!

Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Skip the yeast and the rising time entirely with this pretzel bite shortcut. Canned biscuits get cut into pieces, boiled briefly, then air fried until they taste just like the mall pretzels you remember. This snack comes together fast enough for a last-minute movie night or game day spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Apple Monkey Bread Muffins

This recipe takes canned biscuit dough in a completely different direction than the usual biscuit shape. Pieces get tossed in cinnamon sugar with chopped apples then baked into individual muffins that pull apart in gooey layers. It’s an easy dessert that still feels like something special without much prep time.
Get the Recipe: Apple Monkey Bread Muffins

Strawberry Bubble Up

This dessert combines a strawberry filling with cream cheese frosting, using canned cinnamon rolls as the base instead of regular biscuits. Everything bakes together into a bubbly, sweet dish that comes together with very little effort. It works well for a dessert table or just an easy treat after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Bubble Up

Blueberry Pie Bites

Canned biscuits form the base for these little blueberry pies, giving you pie flavor without rolling out any crust. Each biscuit gets filled with a sweet blueberry mixture and baked until golden brown. They travel well too, so they’re a good pick for potlucks or an easy dessert on busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Pie Bites

Air Fryer Donuts

Refrigerator biscuits turn into donuts in just a few minutes with this simple trick. Punch a hole in the center of each biscuit, air fry until flakey, then dip in chocolate glaze for a treat that beats a trip to the bakery. It’s a great way to use up an extra can sitting in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Donuts

Taco Bubble Up Bake

Ground beef and taco seasoning get topped with pieces of canned biscuits in this casserole, which bake up golden and cheesy on top. It’s a complete dinner in one dish, and the prep work is about as low as it gets. This one is a good option for a weeknight when tacos sound good but you don’t want to deal with individual shells.
Get the Recipe: Taco Bubble Up Bake

Air Fryer Mini Pizzas

Canned biscuits flatten out into individual pizza crusts, making this a fun dinner idea the whole family can help build. Everyone gets to pick their own toppings before you bake or air fry them until the cheese melts and the edges turn golden. It’s a low-effort way to turn one can of dough into a full pizza night.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mini Pizzas

Sausage Biscuit Casserole

This breakfast casserole packs all the flavor of biscuits and gravy into one dish, using canned biscuits instead of homemade dough. It cuts out the extra step of rolling out biscuits from scratch while still giving you that classic Southern breakfast taste. It’s a good pick for feeding a group without spending your whole morning in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Biscuit Casserole

Banana Monkey Bread

Canned biscuit dough pulls apart into soft, gooey pieces here, with caramelized bananas mixed throughout for extra flavor. This dessert comes together with minimal effort and still looks like you spent a lot more time on it than you actually did. It’s a good pick for a crowd since everyone can just pull pieces off to share.
Get the Recipe: Banana Monkey Bread

Sloppy Joe Casserole wtih Biscuits

This casserole takes a classic sloppy joe and turns it into a dinner you eat with a fork, thanks to canned biscuits layered on top. Ground beef, sauce, and cheese bake together with the biscuits for a dish that only needs about five ingredients. It’s ready in around 40 minutes, which makes it a good option for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole wtih Biscuits

Pizza Bubble Up

Canned biscuits stand in for pizza dough in this casserole, cutting way down on prep time compared to a traditional pizza night. Everything gets tossed together and baked in one dish, so you still get all the pizza flavors without rolling out crust. It’s a solid pick for a weeknight dinner when time is tight.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Bubble Up

Stuffed Ham and Cheese Biscuits

These stuffed biscuits show how far a single can of dough can stretch for a quick meal. Ham and cheese get tucked inside each biscuit before baking, so you end up with a handheld snack or appetizer that needs almost no prep. Dip them in honey mustard and they disappear fast at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Ham and Cheese Biscuits

Meatball Sub Bubble Up

This casserole only needs five ingredients, and canned biscuits are one of the main ones doing the heavy lifting. Meatballs, sauce, and cheese get baked together with biscuit pieces for a dish that tastes like a meatball sub without the bread. It comes together fast enough for a weeknight dinner when you don’t want to fuss with much.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sub Bubble Up

Garlic Cheese Balls

A can of biscuits works as the base for these cheese-stuffed bites, and there’s no dough-making involved at all. Each biscuit gets wrapped around mozzarella then brushed with garlic butter before baking. Serve them as an appetizer or a side dish next to pasta or soup.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Cheese Balls

Air Fried Oreos

This might be the simplest recipe you’ll make from a can of biscuits. Wrap an Oreo in a piece of dough, air fry until golden, and you’ve got a dessert that tastes like something from a carnival. It only takes a few ingredients and even less time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fried Oreos

Blueberry Bubble Up

Only three ingredients stand between you and this fruity dessert, and canned biscuits are doing most of the work. The biscuit pieces break apart and bake with blueberries into a bubbly dish that tastes way more involved than it actually is. It’s a solid choice when you want something sweet without pulling out a mixing bowl full of ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Bubble Up

Apple Pie Bites

A can of biscuits does all the heavy lifting here, cutting out the work of rolling pie dough from scratch. Each biscuit gets stuffed with a cinnamon apple filling and baked until golden, giving you pie flavor in a bite you can grab with one hand. These work well for parties or as a quick after-dinner treat when you don’t feel like baking a whole pie.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Bites

The post 17 Effortless and Tasty Favorites You Can Make From a Can of Biscuits appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

Whether you’re working with a classic beef loaf or a lighter turkey meatloaf version, these sides pair with both. Most come together fast, and plenty use ingredients you already have on hand. Here’s a lineup of 19 easy options that cover every craving at the table.

Hasselback Potatoes

These air fryer hasselback potatoes are stuffed with cheese and bacon, making them a seriously hearty side next to a slice of meatloaf. Crispy on the outside and tender in the middle, they come together without much effort and look impressive on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Honey Jalapeno Cornbread

Meatloaf and cornbread are a natural match, and this honey jalapeno version brings a little sweet heat that cuts right through the richness of the main dish. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients and comes out light with just the right amount of kick.
Get the Recipe: Honey Jalapeno Cornbread

Mac & Cheese

Few things pair with meatloaf better than a creamy, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese, and this slow cooker version makes it almost hands-off. No stovetop babysitting required — just set it and come back to a pot of cheesy, comforting pasta.
Get the Recipe: Mac & Cheese

Baked Potatoes

A classic baked potato is one of the easiest and most reliable sides you can put next to meatloaf. The air fryer gets them done in 30–40 minutes with fluffy insides and salt-crusted skins that are hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potatoes

Sweet Potato Wedges

These air fryer sweet potato wedges bring a creamy, slightly sweet contrast that balances a savory meatloaf dinner really well. The edges get crispy while the inside stays soft, and they’re ready fast enough for a regular weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges

Blue Cheese Coleslaw

A creamy, tangy coleslaw is one of those sides that just works with meatloaf, and the addition of blue cheese takes it somewhere more interesting than the standard version. It’s quick to throw together and adds a cool, crunchy contrast to the plate.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Colcannon

This Irish mashed potato dish combines creamy potatoes with tender kale or cabbage, making it a filling and flavorful side that holds its own next to meatloaf. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and easy enough to pull off on a regular weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Colcannon

Green Beans

Air fryer green beans are done in about 10 minutes, making them one of the quickest vegetable sides you can serve alongside meatloaf. The garlic flavor keeps them from feeling boring, and they add a light, fresh element to a heavier plate.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans

Amish Butter Noodles

These buttery, creamy noodles only need four ingredients and come together fast, making them a no-stress side dish that kids and adults both actually eat. Paired with meatloaf, they round out the meal with a simple, old-fashioned kind of richness.
Get the Recipe: Amish Butter Noodles

Brussels Sprouts

Crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts bring a sweet and tangy finish that plays nicely against the bold, savory flavor of meatloaf. They go from raw to crispy in minutes and are a solid way to get some greens on the table without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts

Scalloped Potatoes

Slow cooker scalloped potatoes are tender, creamy, and mostly hands-off, which makes them a great option when meatloaf is already in the oven. The slow cooker does all the work so you can focus on the rest of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Meatloaf and mashed potatoes are basically made for each other, and this cream cheese version comes out extra smooth and rich without getting gummy. They hold up well and stay fluffy, making them a go-to side for any meatloaf night.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Salt Potatoes

These small potatoes are boiled in a heavily salted brine until they get impossibly creamy, then finished with melted butter — it’s a simple technique that delivers big results. They’re an easy and interesting alternative to standard mashed or roasted potatoes next to meatloaf.
Get the Recipe: Salt Potatoes

Garlic Knots

Air fryer garlic knots are golden, garlicky, and ready in under 10 minutes using store-bought dough, making them one of the easiest bread sides you can add to a meatloaf dinner. They’re great for soaking up any sauce or gravy left on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Roasted Carrots

These maple roasted carrots bring a natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory, hearty profile of meatloaf. Roasting them with garlic deepens their flavor, and the maple syrup glaze keeps things interesting without much extra work.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Carrots

Corn on the Cob

Air fryer corn on the cob is quick, juicy, and tender, making it an easy side to add to a meatloaf dinner without heating up the whole kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleasing option that comes together in just a few minutes.
Get the Recipe: Corn on the Cob

Asparagus

Lightly seasoned and finished with Parmesan and lemon juice, this air fryer asparagus is a fresh, simple side that balances the richness of a meatloaf meal. It cooks fast and doesn’t require much prep, which makes it a practical choice on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus

Broccoli Crunch Salad

This broccoli crunch salad adds a crisp, fresh element to a meatloaf dinner that heavier sides just can’t bring. Raw broccoli, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon come together in a salad that’s easy to make ahead and holds up well at the table.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad

Apple Walnut Salad

This fresh salad made with crisp apples, toasted walnuts, and a maple vinaigrette is a lighter counterpoint to a hearty meatloaf dinner. It takes about 10 minutes to put together and adds a bright, slightly sweet note that rounds out the meal nicely.
Get the Recipe: Apple Walnut Salad

The post What to Serve with Meatloaf: 19 Easy Side Dishes appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.

The name throws people off. Colorado means “colored red” in Spanish, so this is about the deep red chile sauce, not the state. That sauce is the whole point. It comes from dried guajillo, ancho, and arbol chiles blended with broth, onion, and garlic, and it tastes like nothing you get from a jar.

Of course, the catch is that making the sauce will require a little work up front. It takes about 20 minutes in the morning to cook the sauce, and while it is cooking you might as well brown the beef. After that, you’re done. The slow cooker handles the rest while you get on with your day, and by dinner the beef is fall-apart tender, and the whole house smells like roasted chiles. 

It also makes a big batch, which is another reason it earns a spot in my week. One morning of cooking gets me stew tonight, tacos tomorrow, and a container in the freezer for the day I don’t want to think at all.

Below, I’ll walk you through making the red chili sauce from scratch (easier than it sounds), getting the beef just right, and a few ways to serve it. Twenty minutes in the morning for a meal that tastes this good is a trade I’ll make every time.

Ingredient Notes

For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below

• Beef chuck roast: Cut into 1-inch chunks. Chuck has enough fat and connective tissue to turn tender over a long cook, so it’s the best choice here.
• Dried chiles: This is what makes the sauce. I use a mix of guajillo (mild and bright), ancho (a dried poblano, mild and a little sweet), and arbol (the hot one). Remove the stems and seeds first. Use fewer arbol chiles for a milder sauce, more for heat.
• Beef broth
• Onion
• Garlic
• Mexican oregano: This is more citrusy than the Mediterranean oregano in most spice racks. Regular oregano works though if that is what you have.
• Oil
• Seasoning: Season with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cinnamon, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. 
• Cornstarch with water: Optional, for thickening the sauce at the end. Skip it if you like a thinner stew.

How to Make Crockpot Chili Colorado

1. Rinse the dried chiles, then add them to a saucepan with 2 cups of the beef broth, the quartered onion, and the garlic. Bring it to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
2. While the chiles cook, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, sear the beef in batches on all sides until browned. Transfer the seared meat to the Crockpot.
3. Take the saucepan off the heat. Pour in the remaining beef broth to cool, then transfer everything to a blender or food processor. Blend well to make a smooth red chile sauce.
4. Pour the sauce into the Crockpot with the beef. Add the salt, pepper, Mexican oregano, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and bay leaves.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is tender.
6. During the last 30 minutes, stir together the cornstarch slurry and stir it into the sauce. Cover and finish cooking until the sauce thickens. Pull out the bay leaves before serving.

Serving Ideas

My favorite way to serve this is as a stew in a bowl with tortilla chips for scooping, topped with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a few thin slices of radish. A dollop of sour cream cools it down if you went heavy on the spicy chiles.

It’s just as good spooned over rice or turned into a rice bowl. And the beef is great pulled into tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or nachos, so that a single batch can be dinner in two or three different ways. For a heartier plate, serve it over mashed potatoes, or cook it with chunks of potato and carrot to stretch it further.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for 3 to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. The stew thickens as it sits, so stir in a little broth or water to loosen it back up.

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap the chuck for sirloin steak or stew meat. Pork shoulder or chicken breasts or thighs also work well.
• Skip the searing to save time. Searing does make the beef more tender, adds flavor, and improves its color, but the recipe still works without it.
• Change up the dried chiles to suit your taste. Add cayenne to the sauce or serve with sliced jalapeños for more heat.
• Cook it with chunks of potato and carrot to turn it into more of a full meal in one pot.

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Crockpot chili colorado

Crockpot Chili Colorado simmers beef chuck in a red sauce made from dried guajillo, ancho, and arbol chiles. Twenty minutes of prep, then the slow cooker takes over.

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time 7 hours hours

Total Time 7 hours hours 30 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Calories 545kcal

Author Annie

Ingredients

• 3 ½ pounds boneless beef chuck roast cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil for searing meat
• 10-15 dried chiles stems and seeds removed. Use varieties like guajillo, ancho, and arbor.
• 4 cups beef broth divided
• 1 onion quartered
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 bay leaves
• Cornstarch slurry 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water, optional to thicken sauce

Instructions

• Rinse the chiles, then add them to a saucepan with 2 cups of beef broth, onions, and garlic. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, then simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
  10-15 dried chiles, 4 cups beef broth, 1 onion, 4 cloves garlic
• As the chiles cook, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, sear the meat in batches on all sides until browned. Transfer seared meat into the Crockpot.
  3 ½ pounds boneless beef chuck roast, 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Remove the saucepan with the chiles, onions, garlic, and broth from the heat. Pour in the remaining beef broth to cool, then transfer everything into a blender or food processor. Blend well to make a red chile sauce.
• Pour the sauce into the Crockpot with the seared beef. Add the salt, pepper, Mexican oregano, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and bay leaves.
  1 teaspoon sea salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon, 2 bay leaves
• Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until beef is tender.
• During the last 30 minutes, make a cornstarch slurry and stir it into the sauce. Cover and continue cooking for the remaining time until the sauce thickens. Discard the bay leaves before serving.
  Cornstarch slurry

Notes

• Swap the chuck for sirloin steak or stew meat. Pork shoulder or chicken breasts or thighs also work well.
• Skip the Searing to save time. Searing does make the beef more tender, adds flavor, and improves its color, but the recipe still works without it.
• Change up the dried chiles to suit your taste. Add cayenne to the sauce or serve with sliced jalapeños for more heat.
• Remove the stems and seeds from the chiles before simmering. The seeds add bitterness and extra heat you can’t control.
• Control the heat with the arbol chiles. Use just one or two for a mild sauce and more if your family likes it hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 545kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 183mg | Sodium: 1203mg | Potassium: 1037mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 401IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 6mg

The post Crockpot Chili Colorado With Real Dried Chile Sauce appeared first on Upstate Ramblings.