May 23, 2013

Crockpot Lasagna Soup

The other day someone asked the question, "What's your favorite type of soup to make?" And I had trouble coming up with a good answer. Because my favorite type to make myself is... whatever soup! As in, I throw in whatever sounds good and see how it turns out! I do have a few I like making over and over again {Pumpkin Black Bean chili, anyone?} but most of the time I start with a basic idea, and see what I have in the pantry/fridge/freezer that I can use up. Saves on the grocery bill, and usually comes out pretty tasty too! This particular recipe started out with an idea I saw in a cookbook. Yes, I do occasionally use cookbooks - more for inspiration than actual recipes. But I saw one [...Read More]

Turkey & Bacon Chili

In case you missed it: I was privileged to guest post over at Time-Warp Wife yesterday, about 8 Ways to Redeem Social Media. I would love to hear your thoughts on what I shared! ◊◊◊ Around this time of year, I start getting excited about the cooler weather, because I love experimenting with crockpot soups and chili! Last year I shared my own Pumpkin Black Bean Chili, which got a lot of great reviews. And here's one I put together last night...   Turkey & Bacon Chili {1 lb} ground turkey {1/2 cup} water {1 Tbsp} olive oil {1 cup} tomato sauce {1 cup} vegetable juice [use low sodium, if possible] {1 cup} chunky salsa [as mild or hot as you want!] {2 cups} kidney [...Read More]

Smothered Mushroom (fill-in-the-blank)

Here's an easy crockpot recipe that works with just about any type of meat! I've done it with pork chops, beef tips, venison, meatballs, pork tenderloin... It's super easy, and loaded with flavor! Smothered Mushroom (fill-in-the-blank) {1 lb} thawed meat-of-your-choice {1 can} cream of mushroom soup {1-2 cups} sliced mushrooms {1 large} white onion, chopped {1/2 cup} beef broth {dash} worcestershire sauce {1 clove} garlic, minced {1 tsp} onion powder, thyme {1/2 tsp} nutmeg {dash} black pepper Instructions: Saute onion beforehand, if desired. Combine everything in crockpot. Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours (longer, for thicker cuts of meat). Serve over egg [...Read More]

Pumpkin Black Bean Chili

If you've never tried a pumpkin chili, you should. The pumpkin flavor is not very strong; it adds more to the texture than the taste. And the black beans get so tender and creamy you might forget what you're eating! As always, you can choose between using fresh ingredients and canned for this. [...Read More]

Crockpot Mac & Cheese

How can you improve upon one of America's favorite comfort foods? Put it in a slow cooker, of course! Even better, this makes enough for several meals, so you can enjoy it more than just once! (And yes, the leftovers freeze and reheat quite tastily.) {1 lb} rigatoni [larger pasta works better for this recipe] {1 can} cheddar cheese soup {1 can} evaporated milk [12 oz] {1 cup} whole milk {2} large eggs {1} stick butter {3-4 cups} shredded cheese {dash} salt & pepper [...Read More]