Ingredients:

1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)

12 slices smoked ham (thinly sliced)

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

PREPARATION:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 1/4-inch-thick rectangle.

Lay the ham slices over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Evenly spread the shredded cheese over the ham.

Roll the dough tightly from a long edge, as you would a jelly roll.

Cut the log into 1-inch sections and place them on the baking sheet.

Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Variations & Tips:

Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the cheese for a spicy kick.

Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Swiss, or smoked provolone.

For a vegetarian version, use sautéed spinach and mushrooms (drained of moisture) instead of ham.

Brush the tops with melted butter and garlic powder before baking for extra indulgence.

Let the dough rest at room temperature for easier handling.

Feel free to customize these roll-ups with your favorite ingredients, keeping in mind not to overstuff them. Enjoy the process and the delicious result of this simple, yet delightful dish!

Enjoy !

Fried chicken is a beloved dish known worldwide for its crispy, golden exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. A staple of Southern cuisine, this classic comfort food has been perfected in kitchens across the globe, each adding its unique twist to the traditional recipe. Perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or a satisfying meal any day of the week, classic fried chicken is a versatile dish that never fails to please. This recipe will guide you through creating the perfect fried chicken with a seasoned flour coating and tips for achieving that irresistible crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Chicken

• Crispy and Flavorful: A well-seasoned crust that’s crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside.
• Comfort Food Classic: A dish that evokes nostalgia and brings comfort with every bite.
• Customizable: Easy to adjust the seasonings in the flour mixture to suit your taste preferences.
• Family Favorite: Loved by both adults and children, making it perfect for any meal occasion.

Ingredients Notes

• Chicken: Use a mix of chicken pieces like breasts, thighs, drumsticks, and wings for variety.
• Buttermilk: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk tenderizes the meat and helps the flour coating stick.
• Flour: The base of the coating, which crisps up during frying.
• Seasonings: A blend of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper adds depth to the flavor. Feel free to include other spices like cayenne pepper for heat or dried herbs for additional flavor.
• Oil for Frying: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, for frying.

Recipe Steps

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by soaking the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least an hour (or overnight in the refrigerator) to tenderize the meat.
2. Season the Flour: In a large bowl, mix together flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you’re using.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.
4. Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large, heavy pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor and maintain the temperature.
5. Fry the Chicken: Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 15 to 18 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.
6. Drain and Serve: Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

INGREDIENTS

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare for Frying:
   • Remove the chicken from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you plan to fry it, allowing it to come to room temperature. This ensures more even cooking.
   • In a large shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour with the remaining 1 teaspoon of black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and additional salt to taste.
3. Dredge the Chicken:
   • Lift a piece of chicken out of the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated chicken on a wire rack. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.
4. Heat the Oil:
   • Fill a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven with about 1 inch of vegetable oil. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat. Use a deep-fry thermometer to check the temperature.
5. Fry the Chicken:
   • Carefully place several pieces of chicken in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Cook until golden brown, turning once, about 10 to 15 minutes per side. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when done.
   • Adjust the heat as necessary to maintain the oil temperature between 300°F (150°C) and 325°F (165°C) during frying.
6. Drain:
   • Use tongs to transfer the fried chicken to a clean wire rack set over a baking sheet (or paper towels) to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve:
   • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Fried chicken can be enjoyed hot, at room temperature, or even cold.

This Balsamic Chicken Marinade is one of our favorite marinades. The combination of the balsamic vinegar, garlic and brown sugar makes it the perfect marinade.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Cowboy Spaghetti is a robust and hearty dish that combines the classic comfort of spaghetti with the bold flavors of the American West. This unique twist on traditional spaghetti features a smoky, spicy tomato sauce loaded with ground beef, bacon, and a kick of jalapeños, all topped with a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Perfect for a filling family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or simply when you’re in the mood for a flavorful pasta dish with a bit of a twist, Cowboy Spaghetti is sure to satisfy your hunger and spice up your mealtime routine.

The adventure of creating Cowboy Spaghetti began on a chilly evening when the craving for something different from the usual pasta fare struck. Inspired by the bold flavors of the Southwest and the comforting familiarity of spaghetti, I decided to merge the two into a dish that was both familiar and excitingly new. The result was a deliciously hearty meal that warmed us from the inside out and brought a taste of cowboy culture to our dinner table.

This dish quickly became a favorite in our home, cherished for its ability to bring together diverse flavors in a comforting and satisfying way. It’s a reminder of the joy of culinary exploration and the endless possibilities that come from combining different culinary traditions to create something truly special.

Why You’ll Love Cowboy Spaghetti

• Bold and Flavorful: Packed with smoky, spicy flavors that elevate the traditional spaghetti experience.
• Hearty and Satisfying: A filling meal that combines pasta, meat, and cheese for a complete and comforting dish.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for feeding a hungry crowd, pleasing both adults and kids alike.

Ingredients Notes For Cowboy Spaghetti

• Ground Beef: The base of the sauce, providing richness and protein.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky depth of flavor to the dish.
• Jalapeños: Bring a spicy kick, which can be adjusted according to your heat preference.
• Tomato Sauce: The foundation of the sauce, enriched with spices and seasonings.
• Spices: A blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika adds complexity to the sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp, melty topping that complements the spicy and smoky flavors.
• Spaghetti: The classic pasta choice, but feel free to substitute with your preferred type.

Recipe Steps

1. Cook the Bacon: Start by frying bacon pieces until crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In the same pan, cook the ground beef, adding onions, garlic, and jalapeños until the meat is browned.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Add the tomato sauce, cooked bacon, and spices to the pan. Let the sauce simmer to meld the flavors together.
4. Boil the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
5. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and serve hot.

Storage Options

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for longer storage. Thaw and reheat, then mix with freshly cooked pasta

INGREDIENTS

Elevate your grilling game with “Sizzling Savory: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers,” a dish that infuses juicy chicken with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan. These skewers are a perfect blend of crispy charred edges and tender, flavorful meat, making them an ideal choice for any barbecue or family dinner. Marinated in a rich, garlicky cheese mixture and cooked to perfection, these chicken skewers offer a mouthwatering aroma and taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

• Robust Flavors: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a taste that’s both rich and satisfying.
• Perfectly Grilled: Achieve that irresistible smoky flavor with charred edges and juicy interior.
• Versatile Dish: Great for a main course or as part of a larger barbecue spread.
• Simple and Delicious: Easy to prepare with a gourmet feel, suitable for both casual and fancy dining.

Ingredients Notes For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best flavor and texture in the marinade.
• Garlic: Minced or crushed, it’s the key ingredient for that aromatic punch.
• Olive Oil: Helps to bind the marinade and ensures the chicken stays moist while grilling.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Like parsley, salt, and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.

Recipe Steps:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine olive oil, garlic, grated Parmesan, herbs, and seasonings in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces, coating them thoroughly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably a few hours.
2. Prep the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, packing them closely but not too tightly.
3. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Serve: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerate: Keep leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Best reheated on the grill or in an oven to maintain the texture, but can also be microwaved if needed

Spoon zucchini fritters

easy and quick to make!

Zucchini fritters are a tasty way to sneak more vegetables into your dinner. They’re not only quick and simple to prepare, but they’re also a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies that may be in the fridge. You’ll need eggs, zucchini, flour, baking powder, cheese and chopped ham to make these crispy fritters. To make a thick batter, just grate the vegetables and combine them with the remaining ingredients. The batter is cooked in heated oil until golden, using spoons! Every mouthful has a crispy outside and a soft, sensitive inside. Delectable! The pickiest of diners will love these.

Ingredients:

1. Eggs: Use big, pasture-raised eggs.
2. Use big, fresh zucchini; there’s no need to skin them first.
3. Use gluten-free or all-purpose flour for your flour.
4. Almond or soy milk can be used in place of milk.
5. Baking powder gives the fritters their rising force.
6. Use Monterey Jack, Swiss, or cheddar cheese for your cheese.
7. Chopped boiling gammon can be used instead of crispy bacon.
8. All you need for seasoning is salt and pepper (add a dash of cayenne if you want your food spicy).
9. Oil: Use canola, peanut, sunflower or maize oil, or any other neutral oil that can withstand higher cooking temperatures.

Directions:

1. Shred the zucchini using the coarse side of the grater into a small basin.
2. To the eggs, add the cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
   Pour in the milk after adding the flour and baking powder.
3. Using a spoon, mix the ingredients to create a thick batter.
4. Add the boiling ham and zucchini.
5. To preheat, dip two spoons into the oil.
6. Scoop the fritter batter into the heated oil using the spoons.
7. Fry till golden and cooked thoroughly.
8. Have fun!

Delicious Brown Sugar Chops

Indulge your taste buds in a symphony of flavors with our tantalizing dish: Delicious Brown Sugar Chops. This recipe marries the succulence of tender Lamb chops with the irresistible sweetness of brown sugar, creating a culinary masterpiece that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

1. 4 thick 1 inch Lamb chops
2. 4 tbsp brown sugar, packed
3. 4 tbsp butter
4. 1 tbsp soy sauce
5. 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Directions:

1. Set your oven to preheat to 350F.
2. In a large bake oiled oven pan, lay your chops.
3. Add one tbsp of brown sugar on each piece of meat.
4. Next add a square tbsp of butter on each Lamb chop as well.
5. Lastly, drizzle both the soy and Worcestershire sauce over.
6. Using tinfoil, cover the pork chops and bake for 40 mins in the oven.
7. After 40 minutes is up, remove the tinfoil and continue to bake for 20 minutes.
   Lamb chops will be golden brown!

Alternatives:

1. Beef Steak: Beef steaks, such as ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin, can be prepared similarly to pork chops. They offer a hearty and flavorful alternative.
2. Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: Chicken thighs or drumsticks offer a juicy and flavorful option. They can be grilled, baked, or fried with various seasonings.
3. Turkey Cutlets: Turkey cutlets are lean and versatile, similar to chicken breast. They can be cooked in various ways, such as grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
4. Fish Fillets: Fish fillets, such as salmon, trout, or halibut, are a healthy and delicious alternative. They can be grilled, baked, or pan-seared with herbs and spices.
5. Vegetable Cutlets: For a vegetarian alternative, vegetable cutlets made from ingredients like potatoes, carrots, peas, and spices can be fried or baked until golden and crispy.
6. Tofu Steaks: Tofu can be sliced into thick steaks and marinated before grilling or pan-searing. It’s a versatile option that can take on various flavors.

Delicious Dinner Recipe – Layered Meat Pie

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup crushed saltines or bread crumbs (if saltines are unavailable)

– 2 pounds ground meat (beef, sausage, turkey, or a mix)

– 1 egg

– 3 cloves crushed garlic

– 1 small onion, chopped

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/4 cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce)

– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

– Cheese: 4 Swiss cheese slices, 1/4 cup shredded Colby, 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack

– Additional ketchup (or BBQ sauce) for the top

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, mix together ground meat, bread crumbs, egg, crushed garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Mix gently with hands until well combined. Avoid overmixing.

3. Divide the meat mixture in half.

4. Place half of the mixture into the loaf pan. Layer with Swiss cheese slices and shredded Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses.

5. Top with the remaining half of the meat mixture. Ensure the edges are sealed to keep the cheese inside.

6. Pour ketchup (or BBQ sauce) over the top.

7. Bake for approximately 60 minutes or until the meat is cooked through.

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound lean ground beef

1 (1 oz) package taco seasoning mix We recommend Ole El Paso or Taco Bell’s flavorful seasoning

1 (14oz) can, peeled and diced tomatoes with juice

10 (6 inches) soft corn tortillas

1 cup of your favorite salsa

½ cup shredded Colby cheese ( Mexican or taco-style cheese works great too)

PREPARATION:

Preheat your broiler to 350 degrees F In a profound cast-iron skillet over medium-high intensity, brown your ground hamburger. Ensure you split it up into little pieces while cooking and mix as often as possible. Spill abundance oil out prior to adding different fixings When ground hamburger is cooked, mix in the taco preparing and tomatoes Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with half of your tortillas Spoon the ground hamburger blend onto the tortillas Top with the excess tortillas and spread salsa over the top tortillas then, at that point, sprinkle with the cheddar Heat at 350 degrees F for 20-30 minutes, or until cheddar is liquefied and effervescent Eliminate from the broiler,

Enjoy !

The Purple Velvet Cake is a stunning and delicious dessert that adds a pop of color to any celebration. This cake offers a unique twist on the traditional red velvet cake, maintaining the same moist, tender crumb and rich flavor but with a beautiful purple hue. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a party or simply want to enjoy a delightful treat, this Purple Velvet Cake is sure to be a hit.

The Purple Velvet Cake is a delightful and eye-catching dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist, tender crumb and rich cream cheese frosting, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that you can create a beautiful and delicious cake that will impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and add a burst of color to your dessert table. Happy baking!!

Let’s explore the recipe and the step-by-step method to make this vibrant cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1-2 tablespoons purple gel food coloring (adjust for desired color intensity)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for desired consistency)
• INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add Food Coloring:
   • Add the purple gel food coloring to the wet mixture. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more as needed until you achieve your desired shade of purple.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
6. Add Vinegar:
   • Stir in the white vinegar, mixing until the batter is smooth and evenly colored.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

7. Divide and Bake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
8. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The cakes should spring back when lightly touched.
9. Cool:
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

10. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
11. Add Powdered Sugar:
    • Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
12. Add Vanilla and Cream:
    • Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

13. Level the Cakes:
    • If necessary, level the tops of the cooled cakes using a serrated knife to create even layers.
14. Frost the Cake:
    • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
15. Decorate:
    • For an extra touch, decorate the cake with purple sprinkles, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

16. Slice and Serve:
    • Slice the cake and serve it to your delighted guests. Enjoy the moist, flavorful cake with its vibrant purple color and creamy frosting.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the eggs, buttermilk, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and frosting.
• Food Coloring: Gel food coloring is preferred over liquid food coloring because it provides a more intense color without altering the consistency of the batter.
• Even Layers: To ensure even cake layers, use a kitchen scale to divide the batter equally between the cake pans