Rediscovering Simple Pleasures in the Kitchen

 In a world that often rushes us from one task to the next, there’s something incredibly grounding about slowing down and returning to the kitchen—not for gourmet meals or trendy recipes, but for the simple, familiar foods that feel like home.

Tomato soup and grilled cheese. Creamy mac and cheese. Scrambled eggs with toast. Hearty casseroles that fill the whole house with the smell of comfort. These aren’t just meals—they’re memories, lifelines, and little moments of peace in the chaos.

Maybe you grew up with your mom stirring a pot of tomato soup while the grilled cheese sizzled in butter on the stove. Or maybe your “after a long day” comfort meal is a big bowl of mac and cheese shared around the table with your kids. These dishes remind us that food doesn’t have to be fancy to be good—it just has to be made with heart.

If you’ve found yourself longing for that cozy, soul-satisfying kind of cooking again, here are some simple ways to bring those classics back to life—and make them even better:

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🍅 Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese

• Upgrade your soup by sautéing garlic and onion before adding canned tomatoes. Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for richness.

• Boost the flavor with a pinch of smoked paprika or a handful of fresh basil.

• Level up your grilled cheese by using sourdough or rustic bread and mixing cheeses—try sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda. Butter the outside and add a little mayo for the perfect crispy golden crust.

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🧀 Mac and Cheese

• Start with a roux (butter + flour) and build a creamy cheese sauce using whole milk and a mix of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gruyere.

• Add-ins like sautéed onions, garlic, or even a spoonful of Dijon mustard bring out depth.

• Toss in extras like broccoli, bacon, or peas to stretch it into a full meal.

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🍳 Scrambled Eggs

• Low and slow is the secret to soft, creamy scrambled eggs. Cook over low heat and stir constantly.

• Add a splash of milk or cream for richness, or a tiny pat of cream cheese while cooking for extra silkiness.

• Sprinkle in chopped herbs, cheese, or leftover veggies for variety.

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🥘 Hearty Casseroles

• Use what you have—pasta, rice, leftover chicken or veggies can become the foundation of something delicious.

• Layer flavor with sautéed aromatics like onion and garlic.

• Top it well: breadcrumbs mixed with butter, crushed crackers, or even fried onions add a perfect crunchy finish.

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These aren’t complicated meals—but they feed more than just your stomach. They feed your spirit. They bring comfort, nostalgia, and joy. So go ahead—pull out your favorite pot, toast the bread, stir the cheese, and remember that the simple things really are the best things.

Because sometimes, the most ordinary meals become the most extraordinary memories.

Find more favorite recipes here:

Hearty Family Breakfast Recipes

Chicken Bacon Gruyere Turnovers

Cowboy Beans

Last weekend we had plans to go to Lake Erie, which is pretty close to our house. In under an hour we can be there, ready for some water fun. Adam wanted to fish from the bridge access, and the kids are always up for a swim. I knew I would be busy packing the towels, floats, changes of clothes, and snacks for the next day, and I certainly wouldn't want to come home and cook after a hot day on the beach. So, I pulled out my slow cooker and made a big batch of cowboy beans. We happily reheated them, and had hearty meals for 4 days. We could have stretched it to 5 days with the addition of potatoes or smoked sausage, but we were pretty full of beans at that point.

Cowboy beans are awesome. They make enough to feed a crowd, so they are perfect for potlucks or family meals. They reheat like a dream, and they are budget-friendly.

Ingredients

2 28 oz cans of baked beans

1 15 oz can of pinto beans

1 15 oz can of great northern or navy beans

1 can of kidney beans

1 can of black beans

1 can of pork n beans

1 1/2 pounds of bacon

1 1/2 pounds of lean ground beef

1 cup of ketchup

a few dashes of steak sauce or bbq sauce

1/4 brown sugar

1 large onion, diced

2 tablespoons of mustard

Directions: 

Brown the ground beef, drain.

Fry the bacon until crispy and drain.

Open and drain your canned beans (not the pork n beans or baked beans!)

Chop the bacon into small chunks.

Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and stir.

Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Why we love this recipe: 

It is protein packed, easy, and pairs well with corn bread, potatoes, hot dogs, smoked sausages, and more! 

It has plenty of smoky bacon flavor in each bite.

It can feed a hungry crowd AND it is budget friendly!

I always have plenty of canned and dry beans in my pantry to whip this up, even when I am low on ingredients for other dishes.

Find more crock pot recipes here: 

Chicken and Dumplings

Slow cooker dinner rolls

Shredded chicken tacos

 

Homemade Corn Broth: A Sweet Way to Stretch Every Kernel

 

After I finish prepping and freezing about 15 dozen ears of Ohio’s organic bi-color Montauk corn each summer, I’m left with a big pile of empty cobs. Instead of tossing them, I turn them into something golden, flavorful, and totally comforting—corn broth.

This recipe is simple, frugal, and gives your soups, chowders, and risottos an extra boost of sunshine flavor—even in the dead of winter. If you’ve never made vegetable stock from corn cobs before, prepare to be amazed!

 Ingredients

• 6–10 corn cobs (kernels removed)

• 1 onion, roughly chopped

• 2–3 garlic cloves, smashed

• 1–2 carrots, roughly chopped

• 1–2 celery stalks, roughly chopped

• 1–2 sprigs of fresh thyme or a pinch of dried

• 1 bay leaf

• 8–10 cups cold water

• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional add-ins:

• A few parsley stems

• Corn silk (clean and fresh, not brown)

• A dash of turmeric for golden color

Instructions

1. Prep the Cobs: After you’ve cut the kernels off your fresh corn, snap the cobs in half if they’re too long to fit in your pot.

2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional): In a large stock pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. This adds depth to the broth but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

3. Simmer: Add corn cobs, herbs, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes. The liquid should take on a pale yellow hue and a sweet, corn-like aroma.

4. Strain: Remove cobs and vegetables using a slotted spoon, then strain broth through a fine mesh sieve.

5. Cool and Store: Let cool, then portion into jars or freezer-safe containers. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.

How to Use Corn Broth

• Corn chowder or potato soup

• Polenta or grits with extra sweetness

• Rice, quinoa, or pasta cooking liquid

• Creamy vegetable sauces

• As a base for vegetarian ramen or pho

Waste Not, Want Not

Corn broth is a cozy way to savor every bit of your summer harvest. You get all the sweetness from those Montauk cobs and none of it goes to waste. It’s a small act of kitchen magic that turns scraps into something nourishing and wonderful.

Find more favorite corn recipes here: 

How to Freeze Fresh Ohio Sweet Corn (the Easy, Family-Friendly Way!)

Every summer, when the sweet corn stands pop up across Ohio, I load up on organic bi-color Montauk sweet corn—the kind so sweet and tender, it barely needs butter. For years now, it’s been my tradition to put up around 15 dozen ears for my family, making sure we have that summer flavor all year long.

If you’ve ever wanted to freeze fresh corn but weren’t sure where to start—or you’ve tried and ended up with chewy, tasteless kernels—this guide is for you!

🛒 Step 1: Pick (or Buy) the Right Corn

Look for:

Ears that are full and heavy

Tight, bright green husks

Silky tassels that are slightly sticky but not dry

My go-to is bi-color Montauk corn grown right here in Ohio—it’s organic, sweet, and perfect for freezing.

🧽 Step 2: Prep Like a Pro

This step is best done in a team (let your kids help shuck!).

Husk the corn and remove all silks.

Rinse under cool water.

Cut off any bad tips or damaged spots.

Fill a big bowl or sink with cold water to soak the ears briefly.

🔥 Step 3: Blanching – The Must-Do Step!

Blanching stops enzymes that cause the corn to lose flavor and texture in the freezer. Here’s how:

Whole Ears

Boil a large pot of water.

Drop in 4–6 ears at a time.

Blanch for 7 minutes.

Immediately transfer to an ice bath for 7–10 minutes to cool.

Corn Off the Cob

Cut the kernels off using a sharp knife.

Blanch loose kernels for 4 minutes in boiling water.

Ice bath right after.

⏳ Don’t skip the ice bath! It stops cooking and keeps that corn crisp and golden.

❄️ Step 4: Freeze for Freshness

For Whole Ears

Pat dry and place 4–6 ears per freezer bag.

Remove as much air as possible.

Label with date and quantity.

For Loose Kernels

Spread on a baking sheet to pre-freeze for 30–60 minutes (optional but helps prevent clumping).

Bag in meal-size portions (about 2 cups).

Press air out or use a vacuum sealer.

📦 How Long Will It Last?

Properly frozen sweet corn will last 8–12 months and still taste garden-fresh.

💡 Bonus Tips

Use reusable silicone freezer bags to cut down on waste.

Add a sprinkle of sugar (not salt!) to preserve flavor if blanching corn off the cob.

Save the cobs! Boil them into a sweet, mild corn broth.

Final Thoughts

Freezing corn isn’t just about stocking the freezer—it’s about capturing a piece of Ohio summer for your family to enjoy all year long. Once you taste that juicy Montauk corn in January with a hot bowl of chili or in a creamy chowder, you'll know the effort was so worth it.

Happy freezing from our kitchen to yours!

Favorite Instant Pot Recipes

 Life's busy, and sometimes the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's where the Instant Pot comes in! This magical appliance has revolutionized cooking for busy individuals and families alike. If you're looking for quick, easy, and delicious meals, you've come to the right place. I've gathered my favorite easy Instant Pot recipes that will have you enjoying flavorful dinners without the fuss.

Why do I love my Instant Pot? Let me count the ways! It's a time-saver, a flavor enhancer, and a one-pot wonder. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, the Instant Pot makes cooking accessible and enjoyable. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Speed: Say goodbye to long cooking times. The Instant Pot cooks meals up to 70% faster than traditional methods.
• Convenience: One-pot meals mean less cleanup and more time for what matters.
• Flavor: Pressure cooking locks in flavors and nutrients, resulting in incredibly delicious meals.
• Versatility: From soups and stews to rice and desserts, the Instant Pot can do it all.

Now, let's get to the good stuff! I've curated a collection of my favorite easy Instant Pot recipes that are perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, and everything in between. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these simple yet satisfying dishes.

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Banana Rice Pudding

Garlic Butter Glazed Carrots

Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Lemon Pasta

Pork Tacos

Peanut Butter Chicken Noodles

Banana Rice Pudding

Hearty Family Breakfast Recipes

 

Hearty Breakfast Recipes to Fuel Your Family

Mornings can be a whirlwind, especially with hungry little ones (or not-so-little ones) begging for breakfast. But between the school lunches to pack and the day's errands to run, who has time for elaborate meals? Fear not, busy families! This post offers a collection of hearty breakfast recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare.

Packed with protein and whole grains, these meals will keep your crew satisfied well past morning. Even better, many of them can be prepped ahead of time, making those chaotic mornings a breeze.

So, ditch the sugary cereals and greasy pastries. Let's dive into some wholesome breakfasts that will set your family up for a winning day!

In this post, you'll find recipes for:

• Wholesome and Delicious Takes on Classics: We've got a tasty take on pancakes, a protein-packed spin on baked eggs, and a veggie-loaded strata that's perfect for sneaking in some extra greens.
• Something a Little Different: Want to shake up your breakfast routine? We've got a flavorful burger recipe that is perfect for the first meal of the day.

Be sure to click thru the links below to view the full recipe. You are going to want to save a few of these to your family breakfast board.

Sausage and Potato Breakfast Bake by Primavera Kitchen

Lemon Blueberry Dutch Baby by Scarlati Family

Baked Omelet  by Bitz n Giggles

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole by Delicious Table

Sausage and Pepper Breakfast Strata  by The Delicious Spoon

Chorizo Breakfast Hash by Spend with Pennies

Breakfast Burgers by We Are Not Martha

Strawberry and Cream Stuffed French Toast by Amanda’s Cookin’

Hash Brown Egg Cups by The Feathered Nester

Egg and Bacon Tacos by Modern Honey

Fried Chicken and Waffles with Jalapeno Butter by Scratch Market

Cottage Cheese Pancakes by Cinnamon and Kale

Brunch Pizza by A Grateful Meal

Bacon Feta and Egg Strata by Served From Scratch

Breakfast Enchiladas by Little Spice Jar

Breakfast Pizza by The Country Cook

Italian Sub Brunch Casserole by The Salty Marshmallow

Spinach and Salmon Quiche by Cooking Gorgeous

No matter your taste or time constraints, there's a perfect hearty breakfast recipe waiting for you and your family!

Bonus Tip: Get the whole family involved in the kitchen! Kids can help measure ingredients, stir batters, and even set the table. This not only teaches them valuable life skills but can also make breakfast time more enjoyable for everyone.

With these recipes and a little planning, you can conquer those mornings and send your family off to tackle the day with happy (and full!) bellies.

Find more great breakfast recipes here:

Overnight Oat Recipes

Cocoa Puff French Toast

Homemade Pancake Mix

Favorite Hand Pie Recipes

All About Hand Pies: Delicious Treats in the Palm of Your Hand

Hand pies are the perfect marriage between convenience and comfort food. These individual-sized pies are filled with sweet or savory ingredients and encased in a flaky, buttery crust. They're perfect for a quick breakfast, satisfying snack, or delightful dessert.

What are hand pies?

Think of hand pies as miniature pies. They're typically made with pie dough that's rolled out and cut into circles or squares. A spoonful of filling is placed in the center of each dough round, and then the dough is folded over and sealed to create a half-moon shape. The hand pies are then baked until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Sweet or Savory? The Filling Possibilities are Endless!

The beauty of hand pies is their versatility. The filling options are truly endless, so you can customize them to your taste buds. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Sweet: Apple, cherry, blueberry, peach, pumpkin, chocolate, lemon curd
• Savory: Chicken pot pie, beef and vegetable, sausage and cheese, ham and Swiss, quiche Lorraine

Here are some of my favorite hand pie recipes. Click thru the link to view the full recipe.

Air fryer Blueberry Hand Pies by The Busted Oven

Caramel Apple Hand Pies by Princess Pinky Girl

Strawberry Bourbon Hand Pies by The G+M Kitchen

Glazed Blueberry Hand Pies by Swirls of Flavor

Caramel Apple Hand Pies by Savor and Savvy

Blackberry Peach Hand Pies  by Blackberry Babe

Fresh Peach Hand Pies by Simply Scrumptious Eats

Cherry Hand Pies Dipped in Chocolate by Easy Budget Recipes

Fried Peach Pies by The Cozy Plum

Apple and Blackberry Hand Pies by Anna Banana

Easy Fried Cherry Pies by Lana’s Cooking

Classic Apple Hand Pies by Spend with Pennies

Mixed Berry Hand Pies by Always Delicious

Cranberry Hand Pies by Fearless Dining

Pumpkin Hand Pies by Seasoned Sprinkles

Making Hand Pies at Home

Making hand pies at home is easier than you might think. You can use your favorite pie dough recipe or buy pre-made dough from the store. For the filling, you can use fresh or frozen fruit, canned pie filling, cooked vegetables, or leftover meats.

Here are some tips for making hand pies at home:

• If you're using fresh fruit, be sure to toss it with sugar and cornstarch to prevent it from becoming too runny.
• Don't overfill your hand pies, or they will leak during baking.
• Vent the tops of your hand pies with a few small slits to allow steam to escape.
• Brush the tops of your hand pies with egg wash for a golden brown crust.

Enjoying Hand Pies

Hand pies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They're delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of honey.

So next time you're looking for a delicious and portable treat, give hand pies a try. They're sure to become a new favorite!

Do you have a favorite hand pie filling? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Tasty Chicken Thigh Recipes for Dinner

The Humble Chicken Thigh: Weeknight Dinner MVP

The chicken breast gets all the glory, but sometimes you crave something a little more flavorful, a little more forgiving. Enter the chicken thigh, the dark horse (or should we say dark meat?) of the poultry world. Chicken thighs are where it's at for busy weeknight dinners. They're affordable, easy to cook, and bursting with juicy flavor.

Why Chicken Thighs Rule

• Flavor Champs: Dark meat naturally has more flavor than white meat, and chicken thighs are no exception. They stand up to bold seasonings and sauces beautifully.
• Hard to Dry Out: Unlike chicken breasts that can turn into dry cardboard if you look at them wrong, chicken thighs are more difficult to overcook. They stay moist and tender thanks to their higher fat content.
• Versatile: Chicken thighs can be baked, grilled, pan-seared, or slow cooked. They take on whatever flavors you throw at them, making them perfect for everything from a light lemon piccata to a hearty Moroccan tagine.

Chicken Thigh Dinner Inspiration

Here are a few ideas to get your chicken thigh dinner party started:

• Sheet Pan Simplicity: Toss chicken thighs with veggies like broccoli, peppers, and onions, drizzle with olive oil and herbs, and throw it all on a sheet pan for a fuss-free dinner.
• Global Thighs: Take your tastebuds on a trip! Try a jerk chicken marinade for a Caribbean twist, a harissa yogurt sauce for a Moroccan flair, or a classic Japanese teriyaki glaze.
• One-Pot Wonder: For a cozy and hands-off meal, try a one-pot chicken thigh dish. Braise them with white beans, kale, and sausage in a rustic Italian style, or simmer them in a fragrant Thai curry with vegetables.

Here are some of my favorite recipes to try. Click thru the links to find great chicken thigh dinner inspo.

Lemon Chicken Tray Bake by Gluten Free Tranquility

Marry Me Chicken by Low Carb Spark

Baked Italian Chicken by Marcellina in Cucina

Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs by The Forked Spoon

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs by 24 Bite

Apple Cheddar Stuffed Thighs by Burrata and Bubbles

Lemon Chicken and Rice Casserole by Grandbaby Cakes

Apple Cider Chicken Thighs by Brittney Breaks Bread

Greek Yogurt Chicken by Bites with Brie

Spanish Chicken and Rice by Grand Baby Cakes

Puerto Rican Chicken and Rice by The Good Hearted Woman

Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs by Healthy Life Trainer

Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs by Sunny Little Kitchen

 Oven Baked Thighs with Onion Gravy by Cook What You Love

Instant pot Butter Chicken by Pressure Cooker Recipes

Chicken Thigh Tips

• Pat it Dry: For crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning.
• Season Well: Don't be shy with the spices! Chicken thighs love bold flavors.
• Cook to Temperature: The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

So next time you're planning your dinner menu, consider giving the chicken thigh a chance. It's a delicious and versatile weeknight hero that will leave you satisfied and wanting more.

Find more favorite chicken recipes here:

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Nashville Hot Chicken Fried Potatoes

Peanut Butter Chicken and Noodles