Holly Nilsson is the creator of Spend With Pennies, where she creates easy, comforting recipes made for real life. With a passion for nostalgic flavors and simplified techniques, Holly helps busy home cooks create delicious meals that always work. She is also the author of “Everyday Comfort,” which promises to inspire even more hearty, home-cooked meals. See more posts by Holly
Pork Steaks: Pork steaks are cut from the shoulder (AKA Boston Butt) and are typically fattier than pork chops. Look for 1-inch bone-in or boneless steaks that are about the same size. Pork chops can also be used in this recipe but tend to be leander so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time.
Seasonings: Herbs like thyme and rosemary add lovely flavor to this dish (fresh or dried). You can swap in herbs like sage, parsley, fennel, and mustard seeds as well.
Sauce: Butter and cream add richness while broth adds both salt and flavor. Feel free to whisk in extra herbs if you’d like.
Variations
Use this recipe for other cuts of pork or other meats, such as pork chops, turkey, or chicken cutlets, (adjusting the cook time for each accordingly).
Give the sauce other flavors by adding different spices or seasonings. Swirl in some Dijon mustard for a bit of zest.
How to Make Pork Steak
Pork steaks are an easy weeknight dinner that’s ready in minutes!
Sear seasoned steaks in a skillet, then transfer to a pan and oven roast. (Recipe below.).
In the same skillet, make the sauce with garlic, butter, chicken broth, and cream.
Simmer the sauce until slightly thickened.
Spoon sauce over pork steaks and serve.
How to Store Leftovers
Keep leftover pork steaks in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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Pork Steak
Rosemary and thyme seasoned pork steaks are cooked until tender and smothered in a garlic cream sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Cook Time 20 minutesminutes
Total Time 30 minutesminutes
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Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Season the pork steaks with salt, pepper, and herbs on both sides.
Heat a large cast iron (or oven proof) skillet over over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the olive oil and heat until smoking. Add the pork and cook 2 to 3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
Place the pan in the oven and cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Transfer the pork to a plate to rest.
While the pork is resting, place the skillet on the stovetop over medium heat. (Be careful, the handle will be hot.) Add the butter to melt. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Turn the heat to medium-high and add the broth, scrape up any brown bits. Whisk in the cream and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes uncovered or until slightly thickened.
Spoon the sauce over the steaks and serve.
Preheat the cast-iron skillet before adding the steaks to quickly sear the outside. Before making the sauce, if the skillet is still very hot from the oven, you might need to allow it to cool a little so the butter will not burn. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
This easy corn chowder recipe tastes like it’s been simmering all day, but it’s ready in minutes!
Sweet corn and smoky bacon are simmered in a rich and creamy broth with tender potatoes, onions, and celery for a comforting and cozy chowder.
It combines fresh (or frozen) corn with staple ingredients for a delicious chowder.
Corn chowder is comforting and wholesome for a quick meal anytime.
This versatile recipe is perfect for tossing in leftover chicken or veggies from the fridge.
Double up the recipe, it reheats well for quick meals.
Ingredients for Corn Chowder
Corn: Fresh, canned, or frozen corn can be used and makes this chowder sweet and flavorful along with the celery. If using frozen, add a few minutes to the cooking time.
Potatoes: Potatoes make this chowder thick, creamy, cozy, and filling.
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky flavor and a little crispy crunch.
Broth: Buy or make your own chicken broth. Broth combined with the milk and cream add a velvety consistency with savory flavor.
Variations
To make a seafood chowder add shrimp or crab, a dash of homemade Old Bay seasoning, and a little Tabasco.
Sweet potatoes add healthy fiber and nutrients, but you can also use a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans if desired.
Diced ham or slices of summer sausage are great options in place of bacon.
How to Make Corn Chowder
Fry bacon until crisp, remove, and drain. Saute onion and celery until tender.
Simmer potato, seasonings, and broth. Stir in corn, milk, and cream and simmer until thickened.
Blend some of the soup and return it to the pot. Garnish (recipe below) and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Storing Leftover Corn Chowder
Keep leftover corn chowder in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions on the stovetop or in the microwave.
To make in advance and freeze, prepare the recipe as indicated, but omit the dairy. Defrost in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. Once the chowder is simmering, stir in the milk and cream.
So Many Savory Soups
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Corn Chowder Recipe
This creamy corn chowder recipe combines crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and sweet corn in a rich, flavorful broth, perfect for a comforting and hearty meal.
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 30 minutesminutes
Total Time 45 minutesminutes
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In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Set aside to drain, reserving 2 tablespoons of drippings.
In a large pot, heat the reserved drippings. Saute onion and celery over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes.
Add potato, thyme, bay leaf, pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 8 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Add corn and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes for fresh corn, or 5 to 6 minutes for frozen corn.
Whisk together milk and cream, and add it to the soup mixture. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce to a simmer for 2 minutes to thicken. Remove bay leaf and discard.
Remove 2 to 3 cups of soup and blend. Stir blended mixture back into the soup.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in half of the bacon. Ladle into bowls and garnish with remaining bacon and green onions.
Store leftover corn chowder in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. To freeze, prepare without dairy. Defrost, reheat, and add dairy when simmering.
This chocolatey Oreo cookie frosting whips up fast with only 5 ingredients!
Oreo buttercream frosting has the same rich and creamy texture as vanilla buttercream but with a crush of chocolate Oreo cookies for a fun new twist.
It’s perfect over cupcakes or on a layer cake, Oreo frosting makes every dessert a celebration.
This Oreo frosting recipe comes together fast and fresh with a few ingredients.
Oreo frosting holds its shape so it’s perfect for frosting treats in advance.
Ingredients in Oreo Frosting
Cookies: No need to buy the name brand! Simply crush them into fine crumbs in a food processor, or place them in a zippered bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Butter: Go for real butter over any substitutions for the best results and be sure it’s at room temperature so it blends faster.
Sugar: Use powdered sugar for the best texture.
Variations
Add some room-temperature cream cheese in Step 3 for an extra thick and creamy Oreo frosting.
Celebrate the holidays by adding food coloring; red or pink for Valentine’s Day, green for St. Patrick’s, and orange for Halloween.
Other yummy cookies like Nilla Wafers and Nutter Butters will make tasty frosting as well.
How to Make Oreo Frosting
This chocolatey cookie frosting whips up fast with only 5 ingredients!
Pulse Oreo cookies in a food processor to fine crumbs.
Beat butter until light and fluffy, add powdered sugar until combined.
Add vanilla, cookie crumbs, and a pinch of salt (recipe below).
Mix in heavy cream and beat on high speed until the desired consistency is reached.
Leftover Oreo Frosting?
Classic buttercream frostings like this will last 5-7 days in an airtight container in the fridge and in the freezer for up to 3 months in zippered bags. Simply whisk it up with a little extra vanilla extract to refresh the flavors and you’re good to go!
Ultimate Oreo Treats
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Oreo Frosting
Oreo frosting is a rich, creamy topping packed with crushed Oreo cookies, perfect for adding a delicious twist to your favorite desserts.
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Cook Time 10 minutesminutes
Total Time 20 minutesminutes
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Add the Oreo cookies to a food processor and process until they form fine crumbs.
In a large bowl, beat butter with a hand mixer until light and fluffy, 2-3 minutes.
Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until combined.
Beat in vanilla extract, cookie crumbs, and a pinch of salt. Add the cream a little at a time, and continue beating on high speed until light and fluffy. Continue adding cream until desired texture and firmness is reached.
There is no need to remove the creme filling in the Oreos. Process just until they form fine crumbs. Don’t process them too much or they will become cookie butter. The recipe will frost 12 cupcakes.
This Marry Me Chicken recipe is a one-pot wonder that is truly worthy of a marriage proposal!
Tender chicken breasts are simmered in a sun-dried tomato cream sauce with Italian seasonings and parmesan cheese.
The sundried tomato sauce is so freaking delicious!
This easy recipe is cooked on just one pan – less mess, less cleanup.
It’s a fast weeknight meal that seems fancy enough for guests.
It can be served over pasta or rice, or next to roasted potatoes.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken
Chicken:I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or cutlets in this recipe. You can also use boneless chicken thighs
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes – they add a deliciously tangy flavor to this dish. You can purchase them online here or find them near the pesto in the grocery store.
Sauce: Heavy cream is the base of this sauce because it’s rich and thick, while chicken broth or chicken stock adds flavor. This sauce is thickened with a little bit of flour.
Cheese: Use freshly grated parmesan cheese if possible.
Seasonings: The sauce is seasoned with garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes or you can use Italian herb mix in place.
Variations
Chopped spinach can be added during the last few minutes of cooking.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
Rich and creamy, this Marry Me Chicken recipe is a keeper!
Brown Chicken: Brown the chicken breasts in a large skillet (recipe below) and set aside.
Simmer Sauce: Cook garlic and herbs until fragrant. Add sauce ingredients and simmer.
Thicken Sauce: Return chicken to the pan and add sundried tomatoes, simmer until thickened.
Stir in parmesan cheese, garnish with basil, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Round the meal out with a side salad and some crusty bread.
Got Leftovers?
Store leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding milk if needed.
Freeze leftovers in a freezer bag for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat in a saucepan, adding milk if needed.
Easy Chicken Skillet Dinners
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Marry Me Chicken
Marry Me Chicken is a flavorful one-pot dish with chicken breasts simmered in a rich creamy sundried tomato and Parmesan cheese sauce.
Prep Time 20 minutesminutes
Cook Time 20 minutesminutes
Total Time 40 minutesminutes
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If using chicken breasts, cut the chicken in half horizontally to form thinner cutlets and season with ½ teaspoon salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken lightly in the flour.
In a large 12-inch skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 4 minutes, flip and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate to keep warm.
Reduce the temperature to medium and add the remaining oil. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt and bring to a simmer. Let simmer uncovered until slightly thickened, about 5 to 8 minutes. Add the chicken to the pan along with any juices and sundried tomatoes. Simmer for an additional 3 to 5 minutes or until the chicken is heated through.
Remove from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh basil.
For an extra boost of flavor, use the oil from the sundried tomatoes in place of olive oil. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge in a covered container for up to 4 days.
A simple soup with few ingredients and lots of flavor.
This asparagus soup recipe is quick to make with fresh asparagus and a bit of tender onion simmered in broth and blended with a splash of cream.
Garnish this soup with parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice!
Vegetable soups, like tomato or cauliflower soup, are a great way to enjoy fresh farmer’s market veggies or your own garden vegetables. This easy asparagus soup recipe is no exception.
This asparagus soup recipe is really fast and easy.
You’ll need just a handful of ingredients.
No thickeners, starches, or potatoes are needed.
It is naturally low-carb and gluten-free.
Ingredients for Asparagus Soup
Asparagus: My preference is fresh asparagus stalks; however, frozen asparagus or leftover grilled asparagus can be used.
Broth: Chicken broth is the base of this recipe, and it adds flavor. It can be replaced with vegetable broth, which is a bit sweeter.
Seasonings:The flavor in this asparagus soup is simple, I add aromatics like onion, and garlic and season simply. Feel free to stir in your favorite herbs.
Cream:A small amount of heavy cream adds richness and a velvety texture. For a lighter version, replace it with light cream, sour cream, or Greek yogurt (which will add some tang).
To stretch this asparagus soup recipe further, add a peeled and chopped russet or Yukon gold potato.
Other vegetables can be substituted for some of the asparagus if needed; green peas, zucchini, or celery are great options.
How To Make Asparagus Soup
This is no canned cream of asparagus soup – it’s full of fresh ingredients.
Prep: Rinse, trim, and chop the asparagus spears.
Cook: Cook onion & garlic in butter (recipe below). Stir in the remaining ingredients and simmer.
Blend: Puree the soup in the pot using an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender. Stir in cream.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with parmesan cheese or a slice of garlic bread to soak up every last drop!
Garnish Tip: After the asparagus has simmered for about 4 minutes, remove a few of the asparagus tips and set aside for garnishing the soup.
Parmesan cheese and a swirl of heavy cream also make a pretty garnish. Top it with parmesan croutons or fresh herbs like dill.
Holly’s Tips
Additional veggies can be added to stretch this asparagus soup further.
If using a regular blender to puree soup or hot liquids, do not seal the lid. The steam can build up and cause a dangerous mess.
If you’d prefer more texture, remove a handful of the asparagus before blending. Chop it and stir it back into the soup after blending.
To thicken, allow the soup to simmer uncovered or stir in some potato flakes.
Leftovers, Reheating, & Freezing
Reheating asparagus soup is a snap when using the microwave or stovetop. Make sure it is fully mixed and heat on low to avoid overcooking the cream. Adjust the seasonings!
Because asparagus soup is made with cream and cream-based soups don’t freeze well, it’s best to freeze a portion before adding the cream! Simply defrost, reheat, and add a splash of cream before serving.
More Asparagus Favorites
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Creamy Asparagus Soup
This asparagus soup is fresh, creamy, and full of flavor!
Prep Time 20 minutesminutes
Cook Time 25 minutesminutes
Total Time 45 minutesminutes
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Cut asparagus into ½” pieces.
In a large pot over medium heat, cook onion and garlic in butter until tender. Add asparagus and cook an additional 5 minutes.
Stir in broth, salt & pepper. Cover and let simmer 10-15 minutes or until asparagus is softened.
Using a hand blender, puree soup until smooth. Stir in cream and lemon juice.
Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
Additional veggies can be added to stretch the soup further. Zucchini or celery are great options.
If using a regular blender to puree soup or hot liquids, do not seal the lid. The steam can build up and cause a dangerous mess.
If you’d prefer more texture, remove a handful of the asparagus before blending. Chop it and stir it back into the soup after blending.
To thicken, allow the soup to simmer uncovered or stir in some potato flakes.
Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes are delicious and easy, requiring just a few simple ingredients! They are super forgiving, so go ahead and experiment!
Sauce – This recipe uses “cream of” soup to prevent the sauce from curdling. Swap in cream of mushroom or cream of celery. For a from-scratch version, try my homemade condensed chicken soup using evaporated milk.
Potatoes – Use thin-skinned potatoes. Yellow, red or Yukon gold potatoes will hold their shape and don’t require peeling. If using baking potatoes or Russet potatoes, they should be peeled and will taste delicious but may not hold their shape.
Cheese – I like to add a little bit of cheese to the potatoes (which technically makes them au gratin potatoes) . Use sharp cheddar for extra flavor. Try different cheeses altogether; Colby, Swiss, a bit of Parmesan cheese or Gruyere (my favorite addition to Crock Pot mac and cheese).
How to Make Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes
Slow cooker scalloped potatoes are so easy to prepare that they practically cook themselves.
Thinly slice the peeled potatoes and onion *see tip below.
Mix sauce ingredients.
Alternate layers of sliced potato, sliced onion, and sauce.
Cook until tender, adding cheese after a couple of hours.
Tips & Variations
Crockpot scalloped potatoes will cook in 4-5 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low.
If the potatoes are done early, simply turn the slow cooker off (they will stay warm for over an hour) or turn it to warm.
Turn it into a meal by adding chopped ham, fried mushrooms, or leftover ground beef or taco meat.
Slow Cooker Side Dishes
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Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes
Layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a creany cheese sauce are cooked until perfectly tender in the slow cooker!
Prep Time 20 minutesminutes
Cook Time 4 hourshours10 minutesminutes
Total Time 4 hourshours30 minutesminutes
Author Holly Nilsson
In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until slightly softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine 1 cup cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, 1 cup heavy cream, garlic powder, thyme, ¼ teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
Grease a 6qt slow cooker and place ½ of the potatoes in the bottom, season with ¼ teaspoon salt. Top with all of the onions. Spread ½ of the cheese mixture on top.
Add remaining potatoes, ¼ teaspoon salt, and remaining sauce sauce. Pour ½ cup heavy cream over top.
Place a double layer of paper towels across the slow cooker to abosrob moisture, ensuring they don’t touch the potatoes and cover. Cook on high 4-5 hours (or low 7-8 hours), adding the cheese after 2 ½ hours.
Once potatoes are soft, sprinkle with remaining ½ cup cheese and cover until melted (about 5 minutes).
Once done, potatoes can be kept on warm for up to 2 hours. Additional seasonings or herbs can be added to the sauce if desired. Store leftover scalloped potatoes in the fridge in a covered container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or the oven until heated through.
Tender cooked spinach is perfectly seasoned in a creamy cheesy base.
This is The Best Creamed Spinach
Super easy, a little cheesy, and always delicious, this easy creamed spinach recipe rivals any steakhouse and is perfect for Sunday supper or added to your Easter or Thanksgiving menu.
Creamed spinach is a delicious side dish, and this version is naturally low-carb.
It’s prepped in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze.
The addition of cream cheese turns this classic recipe into a crowd favorite.
Ingredients & Variations
Spinach – Fresh spinach or baby spinach is best for this recipe, but frozen spinach can be used in a pinch. If using frozen, sure to drain and squeeze dry first.
Sauce – The cream sauce is made with cream cheese and heavy whipping cream. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese is added in Step 3 if desired.
Variations: Minced fresh garlic cloves can added with the onion if desired. Bacon bits, cooked mushrooms, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or finely chopped sundried tomatoes are great additions.
How to Make Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is ready in just minutes.
Cook prepped spinach leaves in a pan until wilted. Drain any liquid and set aside.
Cook onion in butter until softened. Add remaining ingredients (per recipe below) and simmer until the sauce is smooth and reduced by half.
Return spinach to the pan and cook until heated through. Serve hot.
Holly’s Tips
Squeeze excess moisture from the spinach once cooked for a thicker cream sauce.
Cream cheese blends faster at room temperature. Cut it into small pieces before adding to the skillet in Step 3.
Leftover creamed spinach can be refrigerated in a covered container for up to 4 days. Use creamed spinach as a spread on burgers and wraps or have it as a tasty dip for garlic breadsticks.
More Superb Spinach Recipes
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Creamed Spinach Recipe
This easy creamed spinach side is a wonderful addition to any elegant holiday meal, or potluck.
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Cook Time 15 minutesminutes
Total Time 25 minutesminutes
Wash and dry the spinach leaves if using fresh. Pinch off any tough stems and roughly chop the spinach.
Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Cook the spinach until wilted, about 3 minutes. Remove from the pan and place in a strainer to drain.
Reduce the heat to medium low and add the onion and butter to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until tender.
Add the cream cheese and stir until melted.
Whisk in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and salt. Simmer 1 to 2 minutes or until thickened.
Gently squeeze any excess liquid from the spinach and stir it into the cream sauce. Taste and season with additional seasoned salt and pepper.
Fresh spinach can be substituted with 10 ounces of frozen chopped spinach. Parmesan cheese can be stirred in with the spinach if desired.
This easy chocolate mousse recipe is dreamy decadence in just minutes. Rich chocolate flavor in a whipped dessert in minutes.
This is perfect for a last-minute dessert or an impressive (yet effortless) treat.
Easy Chocolate Mousse in Minutes
This is an easy shortcut to making chocolate mousse. It’s deliciously decadent and more light and airy than chocolate pudding.
You’ll need just three ingredients, no fiddling with gelatin, no beating eggs required.
Whip this dessert up injust a minute or two – no cooking required.
The secret to the richness is unsweetened cocoa powder to boost dark chocolate flavor!
Serve it as you like, top it with whipped cream or fresh berries.
Ingredients for Chocolate Mousse
Chocolate pudding mix: The base of this easy mousse recipe is a box of pudding mix. Ensure you use instant pudding (not the kind that requires cooking).
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This deepens the chocolate flavor and elevates the dessert.
Heavy cream: The secret to the light and fluffy texture in this mousse recipe is the heavy whipping cream. Milk won’t create the richness needed in this recipe.
Bonus Tip: For an extra decadent experience, use half dark chocolate pudding mix and half milk chocolate pudding mix!
How to Make Chocolate Mousse
Mix all ingredients (according to the recipe below) with an electric mixer for 1 minute.
Serve immediately or refrigerate.
Top it Off!
Get fancy and have fun with toppings or fold in some cookie crumbs or chocolate chips.
Crumbled cookies, festive sprinkles, or a drizzle of homemade strawberry or caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence
Prep Ahead and Storage
This chocolate mousse recipe will last about 4 days in the fridge, so it’s perfect for prepping ahead.
If making ahead, add the toppings (like whipped cream) just before serving.
Freeze chocolate mousse for up to 2 months and let it thaw in the refrigerator, or freeze it into popsicle molds and enjoy it as a frozen treat!
More Chocolate Recipes
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Easy Chocolate Mousse
A rich creamy chocolate dessert, this shortcut chocolate mousse recipe takes just a couple of minutes to make!
Prep Time 2 minutesminutes
Cook Time 0 minutesminutes
Total Time 2 minutesminutes
In a medium bowl, combine cocoa powder and instant pudding powder.
Add the heavy whipping cream and mix with an electric mixer on medium-high for 1 minute.
Spoon or pipe the chocolate mixture into serving dishes or small glasses immediately and serve or refrigerate.
Garnish with whipped topping, fresh berries, mint, or whipped cream.
This shortcut mousse sets quickly so transfer to bowls or glasses immediately. Small wine or champagne glasses or little jars make for a pretty presentation. Chocolate mousse will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge in an airtight container. Whipped topping is not included in nutritional calculation.
This easy vodka sauce is as delicious as it is easy!
With few ingredients, this sauce is a zesty tomato based sauce with great flavor. It pairs well with almost any pasta and goes well with chicken or seafood.
Pasta Perfection: Easy Vodka Sauce
Vodka and a splash of cream are unique additions that make this sauce restaurant-quality.
Pair it with almost any pasta and add in chicken, sausage, or shrimp.
It’s easy to make but will impress your family!
This dish is kid-friendly – the alcohol is cooked off, making it a family fave.
Ingredients for Vodka Sauce
Onion & Garlic: Onion (or shallot) and garlic add flavor to this sauce.
Pancetta: add a salty, savory depth of flavor. Use bacon in place of pancetta if needed.
Vodka: The vodka enhances the sauce’s flavor, choose an inexpensive vodka for this recipe. The alcohol will cook off so this recipe is safe for kids.
Tomatoes: Use a mix of canned whole for texture and crushed tomatoes for vibrant flavor. San Marzanos are the best canned tomatoes if you can get them but any canned tomatoes work in this vodka sauce.
Heavy Cream : A bit of cream adds richness.
Parmesan Cheese: freshly grated Parmesan (or Romano for a sharper edge) adds flavor.
Fresh Parsley: fresh herbs add touch of freshness. Basil is a great alternative if you prefer.
Pasta & Variations
Penne alla vodka is classic, but rigatoni or linguine are all great choices; this homemade vodka sauce will work with almost any shape. Try rotini, farfalle, or cavatappi.
No pancetta? Use some made-from-scratch meatballs or use cheese or sausage-filled tortellini, if you like. Add veggies like spinach, chopped kale, sliced mushrooms, or peas.
How to Make Vodka Sauce
This Vodka sauce recipe is a classic sauce that’s super easy to make.
Cook onion in butter or olive oil until softened. Add pancetta and cook until some of the fat is rendered out.
Add vodka and garlic and cook per recipe below.
Stir in the remaining ingredients and simmer until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese and parsley.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Sauce
Boil pasta until just al dente and save a little pasta water to add to the sauce. This provides more texture to the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta.
For an extra smooth sauce without chunky bits of tomato, puree the sauce in a small blender before adding cheese in Step 6.
More Favorite Pasta Sauces
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Easy Vodka Sauce
A creamy and tomato-based pasta sauce with a touch of vodka adds a unique richness and depth to the flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutesminutes
Cook Time 55 minutesminutes
Total Time 1 hourhour15 minutesminutes
Using your hands, squish the tomatoes into a bowl to break them up (reserving the juices) and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, 3 minutes. Stir in the pancetta or bacon and continue cooking until some of the fat has rendered out, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook just until fragrant.
Add the vodka and bring to a low boil, let boil uncovered for 2 minutes.
Stir in the whole and crushed tomatoes (with any juices) and the pepper flakes. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
Stir in the cream and simmer for an additional 9 to 11 minutes or until thickened.
Remove from heat, and add the parmesan cheese and parsley. Stir, taste, and season with salt and pepper.
This is enough sauce to toss with 16 oz dry pasta. No vodka? No problem! Use a splash of white wine instead (although it won’t technically be vodka sauce anymore). If you’d like to make this recipe without alcohol, leave the vodka out. It will change the flavor but it will still be delicious. San Marzano tomatoes are preferred if you can get them. Break up whole tomatoes by hand before using or with the back of a wooden spoon in the pan. Add grilled shrimp, shredded chicken, or Italian sausage if desired. Save some pasta water, if you mix the sauce with pasta, add a bit of reserved pasta water. Not only does it help with consistency, but the starches also help the sauce cling better.
Homemade Brussels sprouts au gratin is a new twist for a favorite vegetable!
Fresh Brussels sprouts are pan fried and baked in a quick and creamy cheese sauce. This dish is ready to serve in no time!
Easy Cheesy Brussels Sprouts
Cheesy brussels sprouts are baked in a lightly seasoned cream sauce until they are tender. It’s elegant enough for a holiday but easy enough to make any day of the week.
This side can be made ahead of time and baked before serving.
Brussels sprouts are packed with flavor andloaded with fiber and nutrients. And when they’re baked in a tasty cheese sauce, even the kids will love them!
This easy recipe takes only 15 minutes of prep and can be cooked alongside the main dish like baked chicken, turkey dinner, or meatloaf.
Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts au Gratin
Brussels Sprouts – Choose heavy, firm brussels sprouts that are about the same size, so they cook evenly, and cut the larger halves into quarters if necessary.
Cheese sauce – This cheese sauce is made with heavy cream and cheese (no roux required)! Cheddar cheese and parmesan have bold flavors but try other favorites. Gruyere cheese, mozzarella, or even smoked cheddar would add great flavor.
I prefer to keep the sauce simple, but you can add a couple of cloves of garlic (saute in butter first), a pinch of fresh thyme, or dry mustard if you’d like.
Add-ins – Diced sundried tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, bacon bits, and sliced water chestnuts will add color, texture, and flavor to brussels sprouts.
A Smooth Sauce
For the best smooth sauce, grate the cheese yourself, as most pre-shredded cheese is processed with anti-caking additives, and it won’t melt as well.
Sprinkle extra cheese on top to bake until bubbly and browned.
How to Make Brussels Sprouts Au Gratin
This brussels sprouts gratin recipe is quick and easy to prepare:
Cook sprouts: Pan fry brussels sprouts in olive oil until tender-crisp and slightly browned (as per the recipe below).
Make the cheese sauce: Prepare the sauce with cream, parmesan, cheddar, and seasonings.
Bake: Transfer the sprouts to a casserole dish and pour the cheese mixture overtop. Sprinkle with more cheese and bake browned and bubbly.
Option: Add mix 1 tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs with ½ teaspoon olive oil and add to the cheese on top for a crisp topping.
Storing Brussels Sprouts
Make Ahead and store in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking (perfect for prepping ahead for holidays or Christmas dinner).
If prepared ahead of time, remove it from the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 30 minutes while the oven preheats.
Let leftover brussels sprouts cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container for up to five days in the refrigerator.
Freeze leftovers in zippered bags for up to 6 weeks, and since this dish contains a dairy sauce, it might separate a bit once it’s reheated.
More Cheesy Au Gratin Recipes
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Baked Brussels Sprouts Gratin
Brussels sprouts gratin is a deliciously creamy & cheesy side dish!
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 30 minutesminutes
Total Time 45 minutesminutes
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Rinse brussels sprouts and remove any wilted outer leaves. Cut them in half (or quarters if they are large).
Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes or until tender-crisp and slightly browned. Pour into a 2 qt dish.
In the same skillet, heat heavy cream, onion powder, salt, and pepper until boiling. Reduce heat and let simmer over medium heat for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
Remove from heat and whisk in parmesan cheese. Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Pour over Brussels sprouts.
Top with remaining ⅓ cup cheddar cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until browned and bubbly.
Frozen Brussels sprouts can be used and should be thawed and heated first. For the best sauce, shred your own cheeses. Packaged cheeses don’t always melt smoothly. Prepare ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Remove from the fridge and let rest on the counter while the oven preheats. If the gratin is cold from the fridge, you may need to add 5 minutes of extra baking time.
This banoffee pie recipe only takes a few ingredients and even fewer steps!
A no bake graham crust is filled with layers rich toffee layer, bananas and whipped cream.
This is a decadent dessert that is positively delicious.
No Bake Banoffee Pie
Banoffee is a British dessert that combines ‘banana’ and ‘toffee’ into one decadent treat!
Combines sweet, sticky toffee with fresh bananas — a match made in dessert heaven.
Quick and easy to whip up, this is a no-bake dessert.
You only need a few simple ingredients.
It’s a year-round treat, light enough for summer and comforting for winter.
Ingredients for Banoffee Pie
Crust – A homemade graham crust is recommended, as store-bought crusts often don’t hold up to toppings or break apart when serving. Graham crumbs can be replaced with almost any type of cookie crumbs; try Biscoff or Nutter Butter cookies.
Bananas – Save the ripe bananas for banana bread; firm, and fresh bananas are best for this recipe.
Toffee – Be sure to use dulce de leche, which is made with milk and sugar (caramel is water and sugar). You can also find dulce de leche online. Boiling it a little bit helps it to thicken so the pie sets a little bit better.
Variations – Add sliced strawberries between the bananas or even mini chocolate chips. Drizzle extra dulce de leche or hot fudge sauce over the top for a fancy presentation.
How to Make Banoffee Pie
Cook dulce de leche in a medium saucepan for 3 minutes.
Pour caramel over graham cracker crust and refrigerate (as per the recipe below).
Layer sliced bananas over the caramel and top with whipped cream. Garnish with chocolate curls, if desired.
Storing Banoffee Pie
Banoffee pie is best eaten the day of or the day after you make it when the bananas are still fresh and firm. Banoffee pie can be made a day in advance, just cover it and keep it chilled until ready to serve. Due to the bananas and whipped cream, it’s not advised to freeze Banoffee pie.
Creamy Caramel Desserts
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Banoffee Pie
Banoffee pie is a sweet delight with layers of bananas, caramel, and whipped cream on a crumbly graham cracker crust.
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 15 minutesminutes
Chill Time 3 hourshours
Total Time 3 hourshours30 minutesminutes
In a medium bowl, mix graham crumbs, butter, and sugar until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch pie place and firmly press the crust into the bottom and up the sides of the plate. Refrigerate while preparing the crust.
In a medium saucepan, bring dulce de leche to a boil over medium heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Pour thickened caramel over the graham cracker crust and spread in an even layer. Refrigerate until completely cooled, at least 3 hours.
In a large bowl, whip cream, sugar & vanilla until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
When ready to serve, slice the bananas and layer them over top of the caramel. Top the pie with whipped cream and chocolate curls. Serve immediately.
Serving tip: Dip the pie plate in hot water for 5-10 seconds to loosen the crust from the pie plate when serving. Store leftover pie covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
This Banana Pudding recipe is a no-bake dessert with layers of fresh banana slices, a rich and creamy vanilla pudding layer, and freshly whipped cream!
This is the perfect make-ahead dessert and a hit any time of year.
An Easy Make-Ahead Dessert
Homemade Banana Pudding is one of those desserts that everyone seems to love. There are many versions of this recipe including the famous Magnolia Bakery banana pudding (honestly SO good) but this recipe is a easy, quick, and delicious favorite!
easy to make – no baking required
prep ahead
family favorite
Ingredients for Banana Pudding
Crust Layer –‘Nilla Wafers cookies as the base. These soften up and take on a cake-like texture. Other options for cookies are graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or chessmen cookies.
Bananas –Ripe bananas that are yellow and slightly firm will hold up the best. Slice them right before layering so they don’t brown. Overripe bananas aren’t ideal for this pudding, they’re better suited for banana bread or banana cake.
Pudding Layer –This is where the magic happens. Cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and instant vanilla pudding mix create a decadent creamy base. Ensure that you choose instant pudding mix (and not cooked pudding).
Whipped Cream – Fresh whipped cream is best in this recipe however, whipped topping (like Cool Whip) can be substituted.
Skip the banana pudding mix in this recipe, the fake banana flavor overtakes the recipe. Opt for vanilla pudding (with a little fresh vanilla extract if you’d like) so the dessert has a fresh banana flavor.
How to Make Banana Pudding
This recipe is an easy no-fuss dessert. Prep it ahead of time and let it sit overnight so the cookies soften.
Mix Creamy Layer – Make the cream cheese/pudding mixture (per the recipe below).
Make Whipped Cream – Make homemade whipped cream. Fold some of it into the cream cheese mixture.
Layer the Banana Pudding – Layer cookies and then bananas in a 9×13 pan or two 9×9 pans. Top with the cream cheese mixture and finally the whipped cream.
Refrigerate – Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
Tips for Perfect Banana Pudding
Dish: Use a 9×13 pan, two 9×9 pans, or a trifle bowl and serve with a spoon.
Bananas: Completely cover the layer of bananas with the pudding mixture to keep them from browning.
Chill: Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but overnight is better if possible.
Whipped Cream: I add a packet or two of stabilizer to my whipped cream which is a powder that keeps your whipped cream from ‘wilting’ (try Dr. Oetker Whip it).
Make-Ahead and Storage
Keep in mind that this banana pudding recipe needs to sit for at least 4 hours but overnight is definitely best!
Add the bananas on top for garnish just before serving so they don’t brown. If you’re going to leave them out for a little bit, toss them with a bit of lemon juice after slicing to keep them from browning.
This recipe is best served the day after making it but will last a few days in the fridge. The bananas may get a bit weepy but they’ll still taste great!
The Best Banana Desserts
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Banana Pudding Recipe
Easy Banana Pudding is an old-fashioned no-bake recipe with layers of fresh bananas, a rich and creamy vanilla pudding layer, and freshly whipped cream!
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 20 minutesminutes
Chill Time 4 hourshours
Total Time 4 hourshours35 minutesminutes
In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and cream cheese. Use a hand mixer to beat until fluffy.
Add in pudding mix, milk, and vanilla. Continue beating until well combined.
In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Reserve 2 ½ cups of whipped cream for topping. Gently fold the remaining whipped cream into the pudding mixture.
Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan or two 9×9-inch pans with vanilla wafers, and top with sliced bananas. Spread the pudding mixture over top ensuring the bananas are completely covered.
Top with the remaining whipped cream. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.
Garnish with additional banana slices for serving if desired.
Cookies Other options for cookies are graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or chessmen cookies.
Dish Use a 9×13 pan, two 9×9 pans, or a trifle dish. Serve with a spoon.
Bananas Completely cover the bananas with the other layers to keep them from browning.
Chill Allow the dessert to sit at least 4 hours but overnight is better if possible. This softens the cookies.