Everyday Mom's Meals

Sunday, March 19, 2023

Thanks, Mrs. T

We are huge pierogi fans in our house, and I am always looking for new ways to include them in our weekly meal plan. They are sort of a "new" thing for us, since I only started making them a couple years ago. They just weren't something I grew up with, and never thought to try. So, what changed you ask.

Thanks to a foodie/blogging relationship with the great folks at Mrs. T's frozen pierogies, these little pillows of potato and cheese goodness are now a permanent part of our family's cuisine.

Now, if you love to make homemade, or want to try, there are a thousand recipes out there for them and I fully support that approach. But for me, being able to grab a couple boxes out of the frozen food section, knowing I can have them on the table in almost no time, works for me.

I use Mrs. T's for my Loaded Pierogi Skillet, which has quickly become a go-to 20 minute side dish for busy weeknights. And now I have a brand new recipe that we love just as much, thanks to inspiration from my friends at Mrs. T's.

Combining their mini four-cheese medley pierogies with a buttery buffalo sauce is a GENIUS idea for a tasty appetizer for your next party, snacking while watching March Madness this week, or a side dish with a little kick perfect any night of the week. All the flavors of buffalo wings, but in a yummy dumpling.

I am so thankful we discovered pierogies, even if we were a little late to the party; and even more grateful for the opportunities to team up with a fantastic company any chance I get!

What Are Pierogies

Put simply, pierogies are filled dumplings. They can be savory or sweet, but the most popular fillings are potato, cheese, onions and cabbage.

Where Can I Buy Mrs. T's Frozen Pierogies

If you've never seen them before, Mrs. T's can be found in the frozen food section of your grocery store, usually close to the frozen pastas.

What Kind Of Hot Sauce To Use

For this recipe I used a basic cayenne hot sauce, similar to Frank's Red Hot. But feel free to use any flavor or brand you like.

Can I Make Pierogies In The Air Fryer

YES! For this recipe, follow the directions but instead of baking in the oven, place the pierogies in the air fryer basket and cook at 400 for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Best Tips

Melt butter over low heat to avoid scorching.

No need to thaw pierogies.

Don't forget to turn halfway through cooking so they don't burn.

Save any leftover buffalo sauce mixture to baste on the pierogies when they come out of the oven.

Serve with blue cheese, ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.

If serving as an appetizer, include toothpicks or skewers so people can help themselves.

Buffalo Mini Pierogies

1 box mini 4-cheese medley pierogies

4 TBS butter, melted

1/2 cup hot sauce

1/2 tsp chili powder

Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Blue cheese dressing and crumbles, for serving

Carrots and celery, for serving

Preheat oven to 400. In a large skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add hot sauce and chili powder. Stir well. Toss with frozen pierogies. Transfer to a large baking sheet coated in nonstick spray. Bake for 16-18 minutes until browned, turning halfway through. When cooked, baste pierogies with extra sauce. Sprinkle with green onions. Serve with blue cheese and veggies.

More Easy Side Dish Recipes

Souper Rice

Cafeteria Noodles

Sheet Pan Macaroni and Cheese

Easy Corn Casserole

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Red Potato Salad

Broccoli Grape Salad

Shared at Weekend Potluck

Sunday, March 5, 2023

Not Really A Recipe

If your schedule is as out of control busy as ours, a meal you can truly assemble more than actually cook might just save your week!

Sure each component of this copycat recipe has to be cooked, steamed or heated up, but they all be done at the same time and in almost no time at all.

Copycat KFC Famous Bowls are comfort food perfect for a hectic weeknight. Plus, the kids can help with them, they are great if everyone is eating at different times and everyone can customize theirs.

The famous bowl at KFC has been a huge hit for years, but they aren't always available in every area. So now you can make them at home whenever that craving hits!

A complete meal in one bowl, every bite has some protein, veg, starch and of course gravy. Quick, simple and on the table in about the time it takes to bake some frozen popcorn chicken!

Don't let supper time stress you out! Assemble some KFC bowls and dinner is done!

What Is In A KFC Famous Bowl

These bowls are filled with individual portions of their famous mashed potatoes, crispy chicken, gravy, corn gravy and cheese.

Can I Get A KFC Famous Bowl Without Corn

I am pretty sure most KFC locations will leave the corn off if you wish, but if you're making them at home, you can make them any way you want!

What Kind Of Chicken For Copycat KFC Bowls

I used frozen popcorn chicken for the size and convenience factor. Chicken nuggets and tenders would work too, just chop them up. You could even use some leftover fried chicken, or lighten it up with shredded rotisserie chicken.

Why Beef Gravy

Simple. It is what KFC serves. They don't have chicken gravy, but I think it would be great in this. Or even some white country gravy could be swapped.

Instant Potatoes vs Homemade

No, I am not a fan of instant potatoes either, so if you want to make some homemade and use those, go for it. Or if you have some leftover, this would be a great way to keep from throwing them out. But KFC does use instant ones, so this is authentic. And, the quality of them have come a long way since I was a kid, and adding the butter, salt and pepper really does help.

Best Tips

Have all the ingredients warming/cooking at the same time so you can assemble everything when done.

Popcorn chicken, nuggets or tenders can all be used.

Chicken or white gravy can be used in place of beef.

Shredded triple cheddar would be delicious too.

Serve with a salad on the side for a complete meal.

Copycat KFC Famous Bowls

3 (4 oz.) pouches butter instant mashed potatoes

1 (12 oz.) bag frozen steamable corn

2 lbs. frozen popcorn chicken

1 (18 oz.) jar beef gravy

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 TBS butter

4-6 cups water

Salt and Pepper

Preheat oven to 400. Place chicken on a baking sheet. Only make the amount you need for each bowl, about 7 pieces each. Bake 10 minutes, or according to package directions. Prepare potatoes according to directions, add butter and season with salt and pepper. In a small saucepan, warm gravy on stove over medium-low heat. Steam corn in microwave according to directions. When chicken is done, gather all ingredients and build each bowl: potatoes, gravy, corn, chicken and sprinkle with cheese.

More Copycat Recipes To Try

Copycat Bob Evans Chicken and Noodles

Copycat Olive Garden Fettuccine Alfredo

Copycat Applebee's Oriental Chicken Salad

Copycat Pizza Hut Cavatini

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Green Beans

Copycat Dole Whip

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Copycat Wendy's Chili

Shared at Weekend Potluck

Sunday, February 26, 2023

A Little Mexican With Your Pasta

When I can combine two of our favorite foods, or cuisines, into one dish, I feel like a complete genius. I want to stand in front of the dinner table and declare "Look at what I have created, family!" Of course I don't, but it definitely gives me joy to find new ways to give my boys meals I know they already love, in a brand new way.

Back when I first made Taco Spaghetti, man they thought I was a rock star, so a few weeks ago when I was trying to think of a new pasta, or maybe even a new macaroni and cheese recipe, I could have easily said forget it, made taco spaghetti and called it a day. But of course I couldn't turn off my brain, went to Google to see what others were doing and didn't stop until I had inspiration for a brand new dish.

How can I describe this? Think Hamburger Helper, but on a whole new level. Think macaroni and cheese, but delicious Mexican flavors. It's super cheesy, has a little kick and can be on the table in about 30 minutes. Win. Win. Win.

Queso Chili Mac is sure to become a regular on our weekly meal rotation, and I am guessing after one bite, you will decide the same!

What Can Of Pasta To Use

I like small shells for this recipe, but any short cut pasta would work: elbows, rotini or orecchiette.

Where To Find Fajita Seasoning

You will find this seasoning packet in one of two places in the grocery store. Either in the Latin foods section with the other taco shells and sauces, or in the seasoning packet section with the gravy mixes. You can also use taco seasoning instead.

What Kind Of Queso To Use

You can use your favorite salsa con queso in this recipe, and switch it up for different varieties. I want to try white queso next!

Can I Add Other Ingredients

Absolutely! Instead of using pickled jalapeños for a toppings, dice some up instead. Or for extra heat, fresh peppers! Sliced black olives or black beans would be great too.

Best Tips

Ground turkey could easily be swapped out for ground beef.

Taco seasoning can be used in place of fajita seasoning.

Don't over cook the pasta, it will cook a little more once added to the beef mixture.

You could take this mixture, transfer to a casserole dish, top with shredded cheese and have a brand new pasta bake!

Any short cut pasta will work.

Queso Chili Mac

1 lb. shell pasta

1 lb. ground beef

1 (15 oz.) can petite diced tomatoes, drained

1 (4 oz.) can diced green chilies

1 packet fajita seasoning

1/2 cup water

1 (15 oz.) jar salsa con queso

Salt and Pepper

Shredded Cheese

Pickled Jalapeño Peppers

Cook shells according to package directions. While they cook, brown beef in a large skillet until no longer pink. Drain if needed. Mix in seasoning and water. Bring to a boil and reduce to simmer. Cook 5-7 minutes until thickened. Add tomatoes, chilies, salt and pepper. Stir well. When pasta is cooked, drain well. Add to skillet. Pour queso over shells and beef. Stir to combine. Serve immediately with shredded cheese and pickled jalapeños if desired.

Inspired by Sweet Little Bluebird

More Pasta Recipes To Try Next

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

Sheet Pan Macaroni and Cheese

Spinach and Mushroom Tortellini Bake

Easy Baked Ziti

Cheese Tortellini Alfredo

Meatball Pasta Bake

Baked Spaghetti

Copycat Pizza Hut Cavatini

Shared at Weekend Potluck

Sunday, February 19, 2023

Side Dish Search

If you've been reading this blog for a while, something you've heard me mention numerous times is that when I meal plan, side dishes are usually the thing I struggle with the most. That category is where I find myself falling into a rut more than any.

Now, like most families, we have certain meals that the same sides have to go with it, no matter what. These boys like what they like, and there are certain combos I can't stray from or they will riot. For example, if fish sticks are on the menu, a blue box of mac and cheese is a must. No questions asked. If I am making a meatloaf, there better be some mashed taters on the plate too.

But for other meals, I can switch it up, try new things and create new meal combinations, especially if I make something we already love, just in a new way.

A friend gave me this recipe years ago and I forgot all about it, until this past week. I wanted rice to go with some oven-roasted barbecued chicken, but was tired of wild rice and rice pilaf. Somehow I remembered this easy, five ingredient, pantry friendly dish she had shared.

Souper rice has been around forever, but was 100% new to us. The best way to describe it is a "poor man's risotto." It's creamy and flavorful like risotto, but takes about 1/10 of the work. (If you are making risotto from scratch on a busy weeknight, my sincere respect!) Once you learn the method you can flavor it any way you like and have a tasty side that goes with so many main dishes.

If you're looking for some new side dish inspo too, I hope you will try this soon and share with your friends!

What Is Souper Rice

This is an easy side dish made from instant white rice, cream of celery soup, chicken broth and some seasonings. It has a similar creamy texture of risotto, but is easier and cheaper to make.

What Kind Of Soup To Use

I used cream of celery, but any condensed cream soup would work too. Cream of chicken, mushroom or broccoli would be my choices.

What Kind Of Rice To Use

This is a quick cooking recipe that uses instant rice. Using a rice that requires longer cooking will not work the same way.

What To Serve Souper Rice With

Here are some great dishes this rice would be perfect with!

Air Fryer Salmon

Oven Roasted Whole Chicken

Crock Pot London Broil

Oven Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken

Crock Pot Salisbury Steak

Souper Rice

1 1/2 cups instant white rice

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1 can cream of celery soup

1/4 cup grated Parmesan/Romano cheese

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

2 tsp. dried parsley

Salt and pepper, to taste

In a medium pot, whisk together broth and soup over medium high heat. Add garlic powder and stir well. Bring to a boil. Add rice, cheese, salt and pepper. Stir well. Remove from heat and cover. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Add parsley. Stir well and serve immediately.

Best Tips

This recipe is made for instant rice. Regular medium or long grain will not work the same.

Swap out any condensed cream soup you want. I think I will try cream of broccoli next.

Use chicken stock for even more flavor.

You won't need as much salt as pepper. Start with a pinch and add more if needed.

If the rice sits too long, it will become very thick. Simply add extra broth over low heat to thin out.

More Side Dish Recipes To Try Next

Loaded Pierogi Skillet

Pub Mac & Cheese

Creamy Cajun Noodles

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Broccoli & Grape Salad

French Onion & Parmesan Rice

Lemon Roasted Potatoes

Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots

Praline Roasted Acorn Squash

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Game Day Coincidence

When I tested this recipe a few weeks ago, I had no idea how the stars would align for the timing of it being posted; but the stars aligned and here we are.

It's Super Bowl Sunday and by the time we go to bed tonight, either the Kansas City Chiefs or the Philadelphia Eagles will have another Vince Lombardy Trophy to add to their case.

How ironic is it then that this week's new recipe is a simple one pot pasta supper inspired by one of America's favorite sandwiches, the Philly Cheesesteak?

Are you drooling yet? All the flavors in that beloved sandwich from Philadelphia, but in a pasta supper that is on the table in about 30 minutes and only leaves one skillet behind.

No matter who you're rooting for in today's game, we can all cheer for an easy weeknight meal that is budget-friendly but packed with flavor!

What Is A Philly Cheesesteak

If you've never had one, let's start there. A Philadelphia Cheesesteak sandwich is made with thinly sliced beef, stuffed into a long hoagie roll and then topped with ooey gooey melted cheese. There is some debate on which cheese is best, but Cheez Whiz and provolone are the most popular. Many people enjoy sauteed peppers, onions and even mushrooms on theirs.

What Kind Of Pasta For Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

You can use any short cut pasta you have on hand: elbows, shells, rotini, or cavatini. I don't recommend bowties for this since they tend to fall apart too easily.

What Kind Of Cheese for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

I had to include some provolone to keep is traditional, and would definitely use it. Instead of the Italian blend, you could use mozzarella or even white cheddar.

Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Skillet

1 lb. ground beef

2 cups rotini pasta

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

2 tsp. minced garlic

3 TBS flour

3 TBS Worcestershire sauce

1 TBS ketchup

1 cup milk

3 cups beef broth

8 slices provolone cheese, chopped

1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Dried parsley, for garnish

In a large skillet, brown beef with onion, garlic and green pepper. Drain if necessary. Stir in flour and cook 2 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk together Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. Add to skillet and stir well, scraping bottom of pan. Slowly pour in beef broth and milk, mixing well. Bring to a boil. Add pasta and stir. Reduce heat and partially cover. Cook 15-18 minutes until pasta tender. Season with salt and pepper. Add provolone cheese and half Italian cheese. Stir constantly until cheese is melted. Top with remaining Italian cheese, remove from heat and cover. Let sit until cheese has melted. Sprinkle with dried parsley and serve.