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Chicken with Broccoli and Noodle Stir-Fry

January 14, 2012 by Shelby Law Ruttan 18 Comments

Presto Pasta Nights started back up last week, but I wasn't feeling well enough to really post anything on my blog.  I would get home from work and not even want to turn my computer on.  I had this made before the deadline but I just didn't have it in me to post.  So, this gets to be this weeks PPN submission :o)

I don't really know what's up with me, most likely allergies, but it affected my voice, a cough (non-stop it seems) and felt congested in my chest.  Nothing makes me feel better than something good and hot - heat wise and spice wise - when I have that feeling in my throat.

I needed something quick, easy, hot and (for me) spicy.  I had some chicken tenders and fresh broccoli in the fridge.  Since we both love Asian flavored pasta dishes, I decided to go with a recipe and I had seen on  Food Network and adapt it to our liking.  One thing about heat factor is it can be adjusted per person!  It wasn't hard with this dish - I just took my portion of chicken/sauce and separated it from Grumpy's and added more heat.

This week's Presto Pasta Nights  will be hosted Alisha of Cook. Craft. Enjoy. Make sure to visit her blog next on Friday, January 20th for the round up.  If your interested in participating you can send your submissions to her by Thursday, January 19th.  Check out the PPN website for the guidelines for submission.

Chicken, Broccoli, and Noodle Stir-fry
adapted from Food Network

PRINTABLE RECIPE


1 lb chicken tenders, cut into bite sized pieces
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced and divided
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated and divided
1 tablespoon maggi sauce (or soy sauce)
1 tablespoon Splenda Brown Sugar
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon Mirin
1 tablespoon dark sesame oil
⅓ cup water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 cups broccoli flowerets
½ teaspoon red chili flakes
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
2 cups pasta, cooked according to package directions (I used lower carb pasta)

Mix ½ of the garlic and ginger with the Maggi sauce, Splenda Brown Sugar, Mirin, Sesame Oil, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch.  Place chicken pieces in sauce and toss to coat.  Marinate for at least 15 minutes.  Mix remaining cornstarch with ⅓ cup of water and set aside.

Heat large, non-stick skillet over high heat.  Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and heat oil, add broccoli and stir fry 1-2 minutes.  Add remaining ginger and garlic and chili flakes and two tablespoons of water; stir-fry another 30 seconds or so.  Transfer broccoli mixture to a plate and set aside.

Re-heat skillet and add another tablespoon of olive oil.  When oil is hot, add chicken mixture and stir fry until chicken is no longer pink.  Add hoisin sauce and broccoli, toss to coat.  Add remaining cornstarch mixture and stir until sauce thickens.  Add hot noodles and toss to coat.  Serve hot, sprinkle with more hot pepper flakes if desired.

 

Banana Cake with Browned Butter Maple Frosting

January 4, 2012 by Shelby Law Ruttan 25 Comments

Featured image for Banana cake.

This Banana Cake is incredibly moist, packed with banana flavor, and topped with a browned butter maple frosting that will have you swooning. It's hands-down my favorite way to turn those spotted bananas into something special!

A piece of Banana Cake frosted with browned butter frosting on a white plate.

The warm notes of maple and nutty browned butter in this cake always remind me of cozy fall flavors. The aroma in the kitchen while baking is just as comforting as when baking my Banana Bread with Browned Butter.

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Why You'll Love Banana Cake with Browned Butter Maple Frosting

Big Banana Flavor: three whole bananas to make sure every single bite is moist and full of natural sweetness.

"Liquid Gold" Frosting: nutty browned butter mixed with maple syrup creates a flavor that takes the cake over the top.

No fail recipe: easy to whip up in a 9x13 pan or turn into a beautiful layer cake.

Key Ingredients for Banana Cake

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

Ripe peeled bananas in an orange bowl.
  • Ripe Bananas: these keep the cake naturally sweet and incredibly moist.
  • Buttermilk: this is my secret for a light, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
  • Browned Butter & Maple Syrup: these two are the stars of the frosting, adding a deep, nutty richness you just can't get any other way.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Buttermilk Substitute: if you're out of buttermilk, you can use a mix of ½ cup sour cream and ½ cup milk instead.
  • Caramel Flavor Swap: for a deeper, almost caramel-like taste in the cake, try replacing half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar.
  • Frosting Alternative: if you want to skip the browned butter frosting, you can top a slice with a big dollop of homemade whipped cream or make a cream cheese frosting.
Baked banana cake in blue glass cake pan.

Variations

  • Chocolate Chip Twist: stir a ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into your batter for a little hit of chocolate in every bite.
  • Toasted Nut Crunch: fold in ½ cup of toasted chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a little extra texture that pairs perfectly with the browned butter.
  • Warm Spice Kick: double the cinnamon and add a pinch of ground ginger to the dry ingredients for a deeper, cozy fall flavor.

Tips for the Best Banana Cake

  • Mash bananas well: mash your bananas until they are almost liquid to make sure the sweetness and moisture are perfectly mixed into every bite.
  • Watch the butter: stay close to the stove when browning your butter; it turns from "liquid gold" to burnt quickly, so pull it off the heat as soon as it smells nutty.
  • Chill before frosting: make sure your cake is 100% cool before you start frosting, or that delicious browned butter maple frosting will met right off.
Browned Butter Maple Frosting in a blue bowl.

Recipe FAQ's

How do you brown butter?

Watch the butter carefully and let it bubble. It will begin to show brown bits in the bottom of the pan. You will start to smell the aroma of the nutty buttery goodness. Once it has browned, immediately remove from heat.

Can this cake be made in 8 or 9-inch round cake pans?

Yes. Divide cake batter between two round pans and bake 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Why is my banana cake dense and rubbery?

It is likely the banana cake batter was gluten in the flour was overworked.

Spreading the browned butter maple frosting on the cooled banana cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Banana Cake with Maple Frosting with a glass of milk, or a cup of hot coffee. For a special treat serve with a scoop of Homemade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream.

Storage

Store cake in an airtight container up to 5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze up to 3 months.

Banana Cake with browned butter Maple Frosting decorated with toasted pecans in a blue cake pan.

More Recipes You'll Love

If you can't get enough of that delicious banana flavor, I have plenty of other favorites for you to try! For a classic treat, you can't go wrong with this Maple Walnut Banana Bread, or Easy Banana Pudding Poke Cake.

If you love the nutty flavor in this frosting, you'll have to try my Browned Butter Banana Muffins. If you want something more elegant, my Banana Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is always a huge hit.

A slice of banana cake with browned butter maple frosting on a white plate.

I'd love to hear how this cake turned out for you! If you give it a try, leave a comment and a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating to let me know what you think. Don't forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch. Seeing your kitchen creations always makes my day!

📖 Recipe

Featured image for Banana cake.

Banana Cake with Browned Butter Maple Frosting

Shelby Law Ruttan
This is a recipe for the best banana cake that is moist and delicious with the perfect crumb. It is frosted with a browned butter maple frosting. It serves 16 people and is perfect for birthdays and parties.
4.50 from 12 votes
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 321 kcal

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • 9 x 13 Baking dish
  • rubber spatula
  • Electric hand mixer
  • Small saucepan
  • Angled Icing Spatula

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 2¼ cups flour
  • 1½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3 medium bananas , mashed
  • ¾ cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted

For the Browned Butter Maple Frosting

  • 2½ cups powdered sugar
  • 4 tablespoon butter browned
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • 2½ tablespoon half and half

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • In a large bowl combine flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • In a medium, bowl mash bananas, add melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk.
  • Pour liquid over flour mixture and mix with a hand mixer until well blended.
  • Pour in a 9x13 glass baking pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool completely.

For The Frosting

  • Brown the butter in a heavy saucepan. Over medium-high heat, melt butter.
  • Watch the butter carefully and let it bubble. It will begin to show brown bits in the bottom of the pan. You will start to smell the aroma of the nutty buttery goodness.
  • Once it has browned, immediately remove from heat. Pour butter over 2 cups of confectioner's sugar. Add maple syrup and the lesser amount of half and half.
  • Adjust with remaining sugar and half and half as needed to make frosting of a spreadable consistency. Frost cooled cake. Garnish with toasted whole pecans. Makes 20 servings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 321kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 48mgSodium: 279mgPotassium: 103mgFiber: 1gSugar: 40gVitamin A: 335IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 49mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Banana Cake, Banana Caked with Maple Frosting, Banana Sheet Cake with Brown Butter Frosting, Brown Butter Maple Frosting
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Ringing in 2012 with 6 favorite appetizers!

December 31, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 10 Comments

Its no secret, I love appetizers so I wanted to share with you some of my favorite appetizers found on my blog.  Maybe you will be inspired to make one of these for your New Year's Eve party!

I love making a meal of small bites.  I think my grandmother would have thought the same way! When we were at my Aunt Ann's for Christmas my cousin Ryan was asking what kind of pie should he have....and I told him "do what Nanny would have done....have a tiny piece of each!"  Um, there were 3 pies and guess what?  Most of us did just that!

6 Favorite AppetizersBuffalo and Blue Cheese Stuffed Button Mushrooms

I really love these Buffalo and Blue Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms. It is probably my #1 favorite appetizer!

6 Favorite Appetizers
Brader's Artichoke Bruchetta

My brother's (aka "Brader") Artichoke Bruschetta is really easy to make and so delicious!

favorite appetizers
Cheesy Garlic Bread

Grumpy's very favorite is the recipe for Cheesy Garlic Bread. This goes great cut into sticks and served up with some Marinara Sauce!

favorite appetizers
Roasted Shrimp Tasting Spoons

Roasted Shrimp Tasting Spoons are the thing to do when your wanting to get a little fancy with your serving. Great for intimate, small parties. I serve these up with two different sauces.

favorite appetizers
Butternut Squash Bruschetta

This Butternut Squash Bruschetta is a savory and sweet combo that is really hard to resist!

favorite appetizers
Brie Popover Bites with Seckel Pears
If you want to add a tiny bit of sweetness to the appetizer table, these Brie Popover Bites with Seckel Pears are the perfect bite!
I hope this post gave you a few ideas for your celebration! What are your favorite appetizers to serve for New Year's Eve?
The Life and Loves Of Grumpy's Honeybunch wishes all of you a Healthy, Happy, and Prosperous New Year!  
Let's ring in the New Year with lots of great fun and recipes!

6 Favorite Appetizers - Pin it!

6 Favorite Appetizers

Mini Popovers with Brie and Pears

December 27, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 35 Comments

Mini Popover on a white plate with brie cheese and a seckel pear slice in the center of the popover.

These Mini Popovers are baked until puffed and golden then are filled with brie cheese and slices of fresh seckel pear. They are delicious appetizers that are great for holiday parties or appetizer to a special meal with the family.

There is nothing more pleasing to the taste buds than a warm mini popover with a creamy cheese filling. Brie is the perfect cheese to use in these appetizers and it pairs really well with the fresh pear.

Mini Popover on a white plate with brie cheese and a seckel pear slice in the center of the popover.

Holiday Appetizer Ideas

I especially love to serve these Mini Popovers during the holidays. Christmas Eve and New Years Eve are two of my favorite times to make these. My entire family loves this Festive Cranberry Pecan Brie wrapped in crescent dough and topped with sugared cranberries.

Because I love bite sized appetizers that you can hold in your hand, I started making these mini popovers with brie cheese and seckel pears. Now it is an expected holiday appetizer from my family that is made every year.

What Are Popovers

Popovers are very similar to yorkshire pudding. I also compare them to cream puffs. They basically have the same type of ingredients but they are cooked in muffin pans or pans made specifically for popovers and the batter is mixed in a bowl rather than over the heat on the stove.

The flavor of popovers is typically savory and oftentimes cheese is added to them. These mini popovers have the cheese in the center after baking, making the cheese more discernible. The addition of seckel pear adds a contrast of sweetness to the popover.

baked popovers in muffin pan with a fork being used to vent the popover.

🥘 Ingredients

The ingredients for these mini popovers are super basic and are most likely ingredients you already have on hand.

All-purpose flour

Salt

Whole milk

Butter

Canola oil

Cooking spray

🍽 Equipment

Mini muffin pan

Hand whisk

Mixing Bowl (medium sized)

🔪 Instructions

Step 1:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.  Spray mini muffin tins with cooking spray and set aside. 
  2. In a medium sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and oil until combined.
  3. Add the flour and salt. Beat the flour mixture into the egg mixture until smooth. 
  4. Fill the prepared cups half full with batter.  

Step 2:

  1. Bake the mini popovers for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, slit the tops of the popover and place a small slice of brie cheese inside the slit.  
  2. Place the popovers back in the oven and bake 5 minutes.  Serve immediately with pears if desired.

👪 Serving size

This recipe makes 24 mini popovers; 2 popovers equals 1 serving.

💭 Top tip

  • Mix the mini popovers ahead of time and when ready to bake, just scoop into the mini muffin pans and bake.
  • Freeze baked popovers without the cheese up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw, add the cheese, and pop in the oven for 5 minutes.

📖 Variations

  • Substitute any soft cheese for the brie. Camembert, goat cheese, or gorgonzola are good substitutes.
  • Besides the pears, these mini popovers can be served with apples, grapes, or apricots.

More Appetizer Recipes

Grape Stuffed Goat Cheese Appetizers

Cranberry Pistachio Goat Cheese Bites

Cheesy Garlic Pepperoni Bites

Jalapeno Pimento Cheese Spread

Burrata Bruschetta

A mini popover with a brie and pear in the center of the popover.

*If you made this mini popover recipe, please give it a star rating*

📖 Recipe

Mini Popover on a white plate with brie cheese and a seckel pear slice in the center of the popover.

Mini Popovers with Brie and Pears

Shelby Law Ruttan
Mini Popovers stuffed with brie cheese and seckel pears.
No ratings yet
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Appetizers
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 80 kcal

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • Non-stick cooking spray
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 seckel pear , sliced

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Spray a mini muffin pan with cooking spray and set aside.
  • In a medium-sized bowl, using a wire whisk, mix together the eggs, milk, and oil until combined.
  • Add the flour and salt; beat until smooth.
  • Fill the prepared muffin cups half full with the batter.
  • Bake for 20 minutes, remove from oven, slit tops of popover and place a small chunk of brie cheese inside the opening.
  • Place the popovers back in the oven and bake 5 minutes more. Serve with pears if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 2popoversCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 3gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 68mgPotassium: 65mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 76IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Brie Popover Bites
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Holiday Prime Rib Roast with Pan Gravy

December 16, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 2 Comments

Holiday Prime Rib Roast on a platter with one rib cut from the roast.

Today my guest, Jane, of The Heritage Cook is sharing with you a recipe for a Holiday Prime Rib Roast with Pan Gravy. She also has included several sauce recipes along with a Yorkshire pudding recipe.  Prime Rib Roast is perfect for those Holiday family dinner. It is not only delicious but gorgeous on the table!

Prime Rib Roast with Pan Gravy

I am happy to present you with one of my favorite holiday meals, Prime Rib!

When I think of serving a special occasion meal, in particular, one during the holidays, Prime Rib is at the top of my list. It is elegant, easy to make and doesn't require a lot of work or last minute preparations.

Every year my father-in-law roasts a large beef rib roast for the family Christmas dinner. When we walk in the house we are instantly enveloped with the mouth-watering aromas of roasting beef. Yum!

Prime Rib Roast

Seasoning your Holiday Prime Rib Roast

A standing rib roast may seem hard to make, but it is probably the easiest of all the party entrees to make. It can be as simple as seasoning the roast with salt and pepper or you can go all out and make a complicated rub and crust. I like something in between, with all the flavor but not all the work. The only equipment you need is a roasting pan and an instant-read thermometer. There is no need for a rack because you stand the beef on the ribs raising it off the pan and allowing the heat to reach all sides at the same time.

Tips for buying your Prime Rib Roast

When you buy the roast, have your butcher cut the bones off and tie them back on. This is called "cradling." This gives you the flavor of roasting the meat on the bone without the hassle when you go to carve it. Just don't forget to remove the strings before you serve it!

Tips for a perfectly cooked Prime Rib Roast

The trick to perfectly cooked roasts is to cook them below your desired final temperature and let the residual or carry-over heat finish cooking it. While resting, the juices have a chance to be redistributed throughout the roast, keeping it juicy. Transfer it from the roasting pan to your cutting board and cover loosely with foil. And don't worry about it cooling off - it will easily stay warm for the 15 to 30 minutes it will rest.

Prime Rib Roast with Simple Dry Rub.

Yorkshire Pudding - a classic English Side Dish

Yorkshire pudding is a cross between a baked roll and custard with a crunchy exterior and creamy interior. Cooked in the drippings from the roast, it is a savory pastry designed to absorb the juices from the plate, so place it next to the beef for maximum flavor. Often made in individual portions, I like Tyler Florence's version cooked like a Dutch Baby (large pancake).

Sauces for your Prime Rib Roast

Horseradish sauce is one of the traditional accompaniments for roasted beef. The pungent, spicy flavor is addicting and helps cut some of the richness of the beef. Horseradish is a member of the mustard family and the version we are all accustomed to seeing is made from the thick, white root. The longer it sits in the refrigerator, the milder it gets, so for the fullest flavor, buy a new jar before the holidays.

I have included two recipes for slightly different versions of a horseradish sauce. The first is made with whipping cream and the second with sour cream. Make the one that suits your personal tastes. If you like sour cream on your baked potatoes, try this version - it will wake up your taste buds!

Bearnaise sauce, a variation on Hollandaise that is artery-clogging but oh so good. It is hollandaise with shallots and tarragon. It was my father's favorite sauce with beef and the one he always requested for his birthday. Today's recipe utilizes a blender, which makes this a snap to make. Definitely, worth the effort, this sauce is likely to become one of your favorites, just like my dad.

Slices of rib roast on a white plate.

Related Recipes

Holidays call for special meals and special sides, below are some of my favorites to serve for Christmas dinner from veggie sides to decadent desserts!

  • Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
  • Broccoli Rice Casserole
  • Sweet Dinner Rolls
  • Winter Wonderland Cake

Don't forget to check out my Amazon storefront for some of my favorite products!

When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this Holiday Prim Rib Roast recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Holiday Prime Rib Roast on a platter with one rib cut from the roast.

Holiday Prime Rib Roast with Pan Gravy

Shelby Law Ruttan
Prime Rib Roast with Pan Gravy, including two horseradish sauce recipes along with a Yorkshire pudding. 
5 from 4 votes
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Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Resting Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 3 hours hrs 5 minutes mins
Course Main Dish
Cuisine English
Servings 14
Calories 701 kcal

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

For the Roast

  • 7 pound prime rib estimate serving 2 people per rib, bones cut away from the roast and tied back to the roast with kitchen string

Simple Dry Rub

  • ½ cup sweet paprika

  • 3 tablespoons kosher salt

  • 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper

  • 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons dry thyme leaves

Yorkshire Pudding

  • 4 cup all-purpose flour

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 3 large eggs

  • ¾ cup milk
  • ½ cup pan drippings from the roast prime rib of beef

Horseradish Cream Sauce

  • 2 cups chilled heavy cream

  • 2 tablespoons prepared white horseradish
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

  • Freshly minced chives

Sour Cream Horseradish Sauce

  • 2 cups sour cream

  • 2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon salt

Bernaise Sauce Recipe

  • 2 tablespoons shallots minced
  • 1 tablespoon tarragon vinegar

  • ½ cup white wine

  • 5 large egg yolks

  • 1½ teaspoons tarragon

  • 3 peppercorns
  • 
Salt

  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard

  • ¾ cup butter melted

  • Pinch cayenne pepper
  • 
Squeeze of lemon juice optional

Instructions
 

Dry Rub

  • Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl until evenly distributed. Store in a tightly sealed container at room temperature.

For the Roast

  • Remove roast from the refrigerator, loosely wrapped, 3 hours before cooking. Roasts should always be brought close to room temperature first, before they go in the oven. (This helps them cook more evenly.)
  • Cookbooks often call for the excess fat to be removed. By "excess" fat they mean any fat more than an inch thick. The fat is what provides the flavor and what you are paying for with prime rib, so you want to leave it on. Your butcher should have removed any excess fat.
  • If your butcher hasn't already done so, cut the bones away from the roast and tie them back on to the roast with kitchen string. This will make it much easier to carve the roast, while still allowing you to stand the roast on the rib bones while cooking.
  • Preheat your oven to 500°F, or the highest it will go (our oven only goes up to 450°F). Generously sprinkle salt and pepper all over the roast. Alternately, you can replace the salt and pepper with a dry rub (such as the one below) of your choice.
  • Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast, making sure it doesn't touch a bone. (Some meat thermometers require that you poke a hole first with a skewer, and then insert the thermometer.) Place the roast, fat side up, rib side down in a roasting pan in the oven.
  • After 15 minutes on 500°F, reduce the heat to 325°F. To figure out the total cooking time, allow about 13 to 15 minutes per pound for rare and 15 to 17 minutes per pound for medium rare. The actual cooking time will depend on the shape of the roast and your particular oven. A flatter roast will cook more quickly than a thicker one. So make sure to use a meat thermometer. This is not a roast to "wing it". Err on the rare side.
  • Roast in oven until thermometer registers 115°F to 120°F for rare, or 125°F to 130°F for medium.
  • Check the temperature of the roast using a meat thermometer a half hour before you expect the roast to be done. For example, with a 10 pound roast, you would expect 2-½ hours of total cooking time (15 minutes at 500°F and 2-¼ hours at 325°F). In this case, check after 2 hours of total cooking time, or 1-¾ hours after you lowered the oven temp to 325°F.
  • Once the roast has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from oven and let rest 20 minutes, covered with aluminum foil, before carving. The roast will continue to cook while it is resting.
  • With a knife or scissors, cut the strings, which attach the meat to the bones. Remove the bones (save for making stock for soup. Then, using a sharp carving knife, slice meat across the grain for serving, making the slices about ¼ to ½ inch thick.

For the Yorkshire Pudding

  • Preheat the oven to 450°F.
  • Sift together the flour and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, beat together the eggs and milk until light and foamy. Stir in the dry ingredients just until incorporated.
  • Pour the drippings into a 9-inch pie pan, cast iron skillet, or square baking dish. Put the pan in oven and get the drippings smoking hot. Carefully take the pan out of the oven and pour in the batter. Put the pan back in oven and cook until puffed and dry, 15 to 20 minutes.

For the Horseradish Cream Sauce

  • Beat the heavy cream until stiff. Slowly add the horseradish and lemon juice and continue to beat together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish top with chives. Serve with roasted beef.

For the Sour Cream Horseradish Sauce

  • In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients and whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Will hold in the refrigerator up to 2 days.

For the Bernaise Sauce

  • Simmer the shallots in vinegar and white wine until liquid has been reduced by about two-thirds. Remove from heat and cool.
  • Place this mixture in blender and add egg yolks, tarragon, peppercorns, salt, and dry mustard. Blend at high speed for no more than 10 seconds.
  • Add the warm melted butter, cayenne, and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional). Quickly turn on blender again and let it rotate until sauce thickens. Should it become too thick, add a bit of hot water and blend again.
  • This sauce should be made at the last minute so that it will be warm when served (but it may be kept warm in a double boiler).

Notes

Nutrition Information for Roast Only

Nutrition

Calories: 701kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 31gFat: 61gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 26gCholesterol: 137mgSodium: 1600mgPotassium: 613mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1976IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 39mgIron: 4mg
Keyword Pan Gravy, Prime Rib, Prime Rib Roast, Roasting
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Chocolate Peppermint Filled Bonbons

December 12, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 6 Comments

Do you ever take on more than you can handle?  I certainly do - and sometimes when I do this it seems like I am out to punish myself or something!  When I do take on more than I can handle though, I always end up handling it - however the end result may not always be what I wanted and so then I am disappointed in myself.

This year I decided to participate in the Great Food Blogger Cookie Swap.  Before I realized what I was doing I had set myself up for stress.  Our deadline was December 5th, which was also the deadline for Secret Recipe Club reveal day.  I also have been out straight at my job, have had a hard time sleeping past 3:30 am, and dead tired when I get home in the evening.  If I didn't go to the gym at 5 am - I would never get there!  However, my last weekend home before our cruise and also the last weekend I had before shipping off the cookies, I spent making cookies.  Then, wouldn't you know it, I read the directions wrong and made 3 dozen of 3 kinds of cookies!  ha ha.  That's what I get for stressing myself out!

What it did for the recipients of my cookie exchange though was give them an extra surprise in their box when they opened it!  The rest of the cookies, I put in my freezer for gifts to give later!  Please click the link on the Cardamon Sugar Crisp photo for this recipe.

My recipients were Allison of Decadent Philistines Save the World, Denise Oviedo of addicted to recipes, and Madeline Olin of Thursday Night Baking.  I hope they enjoyed the cookies I sent them!

I received two packages before I left for my vacation.  I still hadn't received the third one before I left on Saturday morning so I can't tell you who the third person was or what they sent me.  My neighbor has agreed to open the box, take a photo, and eat the cookies for me.  🙂  Thanks Auntie Jill (as Grumpy calls her!).

My first box I received was from Michelle of delishiono.  She sent me Brown Butter Holiday Spice Cookies - and they were delish!  They reminded me of a snickerdoodle.  I took these to work and shared with co-workers and one in particular said he could smell cookies and I'm pretty certain he had more than one.  Of course, I had to admit to everyone that I was not the baker this time!  lol  Great job Michelle and thank you!

The second box I received was from Kathy of Panini Happy!  I was so excited when I saw who my cookies were from.  I have been reading Kathy's blogs now ever since I started blogging.  I really love her Panini Happy Blog (she also writes another blog Cooking on the Side that is also fabulous!) Kathy also is one of the first people who's blog I made something from in my first year of blogging.  I made her Buffalo Chicken Panini in August of 2008 - and it was a great hit with both Grumpy & me!  It was a very special treat to have received the delicious chocolate thumbprints you sent!  A few were eaten here and the evening before we left for vacation I sent the rest home with the neighbors little boy who was tickled pink to get them!

To whomever the 3rd person was - I'm really sorry to have missed your cookies...I'm sure they were delicious and that my neighbor's kids were thrilled to have them!

Chocolate Peppermint Filled Bonbons

Ingredients:
½ cup powdered sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2-¼ cups flour
¼ teaspoon salt
12 Dove Chocolate Peppermint Candies, cut in 4 pieces
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
2 tablespoons milk (more if needed for drizzle consistency)

Instructions:
Heat oven to 400 degrees.  In a large bowl, mix ½ cup powdered sugar, butter and vanilla until creamy. Stir in flour and salt until dough holds together.

Mold portions of dough around pieces of peppermint patty to form 1 inch balls.  On ungreased cookie sheet place balls about 1 inch apart.

Bake 10-12 minutes or until set but not brown.  You can roll these in powdered sugar while still warm or drizzle with a chocolate icing.

To make the icing, mix together 1 cup of powdered sugar with the 1 tablespoon of coco and 2 tablespoons of milk.  Mix together until smooth. Place in sandwich bag, clip corner, drizzle away!

Beer Cheese Bread with Hot Banana Peppers

December 5, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 16 Comments

Overhead image of Beer cheese bread in the baking dish on a cooling rack.

This Beer Cheese Brad is a simple, no-yeast quick bread with a slightly sweet crumb, sharp cheddar flavor, and just a touch of heat from banana peppers. It's the kind of bread you can mix up without planning ahead, using everyday pantry ingredients.

Overhead image of Beer cheese bread in the baking dish on a cooling rack.

I like this recipe for nights when soup is on the stove or when we need something easy for game day snacking. It bakes up reliably every time and works just as well for a casual dinner as it does for sharing with friends.

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Why You'll Love Beer Cheese Bread

No yeast: there's no waiting, kneading, or rising involved. This beer quick bread comes together fast and bakes up with a dependable texture.

Everyday ingredients: a light beer, flour, baking powder, and cheese are all you need to get started.

Versatile use: this savory beer bread works as a soup side, an everyday table bread, or something to set out on game day.

Two loaves of golden brown quick bread in baking dishes on a cooling rack.

Key Ingredients for Savory Beer Bread

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

All-purpose flour: gives the bread structure while keeping the crumb tender.

Baking powder: provides lift and helps the loaf bake up light instead of dense.

Light beer: adds flavor and carbonation without overpowering the bread. While any light lager works, you can experiment with different brews to highlight the sharp cheddar. For inspiration, check out this guide on pairing beer with cheese to find your favorite combination.

Granulated sugar: brings a slight sweetness that balances the sharp cheddar.

Sharp cheddar cheese: gives the bread its classic beer cheese bread flavor.

Hot banana peppers: add gentl heat and a little tang without being overpowering.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use mild cheddar if you want a softer cheese flavor.
  • Swap banana peppers for pickled jalapeños for a bit more heat. I especially like the sweet-hot pickled jalapeños
  • Try non-alcoholic beer if you prefer to skip the alcohol.
Two mini loaves of beer cheese bread cooling on a cooling rack.

Variations on Beer Cheese Bread with Cheddar

  • Cheddar Herb: add dried parsley or chives for a more savory loaf.
  • Pepper Jack: replace the cheddar with pepper jack cheese for extra zip.
  • Garlic Cheese: stir in a pinch of garlic powder to boost flavor without changing texture.

Tips for Beer Quick Bread

  • Drain peppers well so extra moisture doesn't affect the crumb.
  • Toss cheese and peppers in flour to help keep them evenly distributed.
  • Use room temperature beer for smoother mixing and even baking.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm slices in a 300°F oven until heated through, or toast lightly for crisp edges.

Close up of sliced Beer Cheese Bread highlighting the cheesy texture and golden crust.

Serving Suggestions for Beer Cheese Bread

Serve this Beer Cheese Bread alongside a bowl of hot soup, chili, or stew for an easy meal. It's especially good with hearty soups like Easy Hamburger Soup or Black Bean Chili.

More Recipes You'll Love

If you like this beer cheese bread, you may want to try other easy breads and sides on my site. Quick Dinner Rolls are a dependable choice for everyday meals, while Homemade Hamburger Buns work well for casual gatherings. For something snackable, my Garlic Cheese Biscuits are always popular, and Maple Cornbread Muffins with Salted Maple Butter is a classic pairing for soups and stews.

Thank you so much for stopping by my kitchen today. If this beer bread hit the spot, leaving a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating helps more than you know. It's the best way to support the blog so I can keep sharing recipes with you.

📖 Recipe

Overhead image of Beer cheese bread in the baking dish on a cooling rack.

Beer Cheese Bread

Shelby Law Ruttan
Easy Beer Cheese Bread with cheddar bakes up tender and slightly sweet using simple pantry ingredients. Great for soup nights, everyday meals or game day.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 50 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Breads, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 178 kcal

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • Hand whisk
  • rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • 2 Standard mini loaf pans

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Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tablespoons baking powder
  • 6 ounces beer
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • ⅓ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped hot banana peppers

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350.  Prep the bread pans by spraying with non stick cooking spray.
  • Whisk the flour and baking powder together.  Add the shredded cheese and pepper pieces and toss to coat.  Pour in the beer and stir until combined.  Transfer the batter evenly between 2 mini loaf pans.
  • Bake for 50 minutes. Remove from oven and cool on cooling rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 178kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 5gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 362mgPotassium: 59mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 80IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 227mgIron: 2mgNet Carbohydrates: 31g
Keyword Beer Cheese Bread, beer quick bread, cheddar beer bread recipe, easy beer bread, savory beer bread
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Lime Shortbread Cookies

December 3, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 9 Comments

Lime Shortbread Cookie stars dipped in white chocolate coating and sprinkled with red and green sugar crystals.

These Lime Shortbread Cookies are crisp, buttery, and bright with fresh lime zest. They're dipped in white chocolate for a sweet finish that balances the citrus so well.

A pile of lime shortbread cookies dipped in chocolate and decorated with sprinkles.

They remind me of the simple cut out cookies I'd make with my grandmother, but with a fresh citrus twist.

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Why You'll Love Lime Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Bright flavor: the lime zest adds a clean pop of citrus.

Tender texture: buttery shortbread that melts in your mouth.

Chocolate finish: a dip of white chocolate brings sweet contrast.

Key Ingredients for White Chocolate Lime Cookies

See the recipe card below for a list of ingredients and instructions.

  • Butter: gives the shortbread its signature texture and rich flavor.
  • Lime zest: adds natural citrus brightness.
  • Confectioners sugar: makes the dough soft and delicate while keeping the sweetness subtle.
  • Flour: the base that holds everything together.
  • White chocolate: the smooth dip that complements the tart lime.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use granulated sugar instead of confectioners sugar for a slightly crispier cookie.
  • Swap lemon zest for lime if you want a different citrus profile.
  • Use white chocolate drizzle instead of dipping for a lighter coating.

Variations on Lime Shortbread Cookies + Chocolate

  • Add a pinch of coconut to the dough for a tropical spin.
  • Mix in a little lime extract for extra citrus intensity.
  • Press the dough into a pan and cut into wedges for shortbread rounds.
Shortbread cookies coated with milk chocolate and dusted with silver and gold dust.

White Chocolate Cookie Tips

  • Chill the dough: it keeps your cookies from spreading and helps with clean cuts.
  • Dip gently: these cookies are delicate, so support each one while dipping.
  • Zest lightly: only take the green outer layer to avoid bitterness.

How to Store

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.

More Easy Cookie Recipes You'll Love

If you love these cookies, you will want to try my Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies, Pistachio Fingers, Eggnog Sugar Cookies with Rum Glaze, and Coconut Crunch Cookies.

When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Lime Shortbread Cookie stars dipped in white chocolate coating and sprinkled with red and green sugar crystals.

Lime Shortbread Cookies

Shelby Law Ruttan
These Lime Shortbread Cookies are crisp, buttery, and dipped in white chocolate for a sweet citrus contrast that makes them perfect for gifting or enjoying with a warm drink.
No ratings yet
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Refrigeration Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins
Course Cookie Recipes, Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 116 kcal

Equipment

  • Electric hand mixer
  • mixing bowls
  • Microplane zester
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Plastic wrap
  • Cooling Rack
  • Microwave safe bowl (for melting chocolate)

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup butter
  • 2 cups flour
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup confectioners sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • white chocolate coating (optional)
  • sprinkles (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Sift together flour and salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
  • In a larger bowl, using an electric hand mixer, cream together butter and lime zest until fluffy.
  • Add sugar and beat until light in color and fluffy.
  • Add flour mixture and beat on low until flour is just incorporated and dough sticks together.
  • Wrap the dough in some plastic wrap, flatten it into a circle and refrigerate for about an hour.
  • Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
  • Remove dough from the refrigerator and roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into desired shapes.
  • Bake until cookies start to brown and are firm in the center. Time will vary depending on the size of your cookies.
  • Dip corners in melted chocolate and decorate with sprinkles if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 116kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 1gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 134mgPotassium: 14mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 236IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 0.5mgNet Carbohydrates: 10g
Keyword citrus cookies, easy shortbread recipe, holiday shortbread cookies, Lime Butter Cookies, Lime Cookies, Lime Shortbread Cookies, Shortbread Cookies, white chocolate dipped cookies, white chocolate lime cookies
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Butternut Squash Crostini

December 1, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 6 Comments

Close-up of butternut squash crostini topped with caramelized cubes of squash, chopped nuts, and a thin slice of cheese on toasted bread, garnished with fresh cilantro.

This Butternut Squash Crostini is a warm and elegant fall appetizer made with roasted butternut squash, honey, and walnuts for the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The crisp baguette slices hold a tender topping that's full of cozy autumn charm.

Close-up of butternut squash crostini topped with caramelized cubes of squash, chopped nuts, and a thin slice of cheese on toasted bread, garnished with fresh cilantro.

I love serving this during the holidays when I want something light but still flavorful before the main meal. It's a beautiful make ahead bite that looks just as festive as it tastes. Similar in spirit to my xxxxx

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Simple prep: no complicated steps, just roast, toast, and top.

Seasonal flavor: sweet honey-roasted squash with a hint of spice feels like fall in every bite.

Perfect for gatherings: this makes an elegant holiday crostini that doubles as an easy starter for dinner parties.

Key Ingredients for Roasted Butternut Squash Bites

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

  • Butternut squash: naturally sweet and hearty, its the star of this fall appetizer.
  • Honey: adds a golden glaze and enhances the caramelized flavor.
  • Red pepper flakes: a touch of heat balances the sweetness beautifully.
  • Caper berries: give a briny pop that keeps each bite bright and interesting.
  • Walnuts: add crunch and a nutty finish that pairs perfectly with the roasted squash.
  • Baguette: the crisp base that holds it all together.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, earthy sweetness.
  • Swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer a softer crunch.
  • Try butternut squash cubes from the freezer aisle to save time on prep.

Variations on Butternut Squash Crostini

  • Add a layer of whipped ricotta or goat cheese before topping with squash for a creamy twist.
  • Top with pomegranate arils or dried cranberries for a colorful holiday touch.
  • Make it spicy by drizzling with hot honey just before serving.

Tips for Perfect Holiday Crostini

  • Even roasting: cut the squash into uniform pieces so it cooks evenly.
  • Don't overload the baguette: a tablespoon of topping is plenty. It keeps them easy to eat.
  • Serve warm: these crostini taste best fresh from the oven or gently reheated before serving.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover roasted squash mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, then spoon over freshly toasted baguette slices when ready to serve.

Close-up of butternut squash crostini topped with caramelized cubes of squash, chopped nuts, and a thin slice of cheese on toasted bread, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Serve With...

Pair this Butternut Squash Crostini with Turkey Charcuterie Board, Bacon Deviled Eggs, Bacon Wrapped Venison Bites, and Grape Jelly Meatballs (Slow Cooker Recipe) for a holiday party spread.

More Recipes for Fall Appetizers

For more fall favorites, try my Pepper Jelly Ham and Cheese Sliders, Sausage Corn Dog Bites, Loaded Potato Soup, and Fiesta Tortilla Roll Ups.

When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Close-up of butternut squash crostini topped with caramelized cubes of squash, chopped nuts, and a thin slice of cheese on toasted bread, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Butternut Squash Bruschetta

Shelby Law Ruttan
These Butternut Squash Crostini are the perfect fall appetizer, lightly sweet, slightly spicy, and finished with a nutty crunch. Eash toasted baguette slice is topped with a honey-roasted squash mixture that's beautiful enough for holiday entertaining but easy enough for any autumn evening.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Appetizers
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 208 kcal

Equipment

  • cutting board
  • chef knife
  • Baking Sheet
  • mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cheese shredder

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups butternut squash , diced
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 10 caper berries , chopped
  • ¼ cup walnuts , roughly chopped
  • 16 ounce baguette , sliced diagonally
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons grated asiago cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  • In a medium bowl, mix the butternut squash, honey, red pepper flakes, caper berries, olive oil and walnuts until well combined.
  • Transfer the squash mixture to a heavy duty baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove the squash from the oven and stir. Bake 15 minutes longer, until squash is tender.
  • Remove the squash from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature.
  • Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toast in the oven for 7 minutes, until baguette slices start to turn lightly browned around the edges and are crisp.
  • Remove the baguette slices from the oven and top with a tablespoon of squash mixture. Garnish with asiago cheese and chives (if using).

Nutrition

Calories: 208kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 7gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 537mgPotassium: 218mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 3786IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 96mgIron: 2mgNet Carbohydrates: 34g
Keyword batuette topping ideas, Butternut Squash Bruschetta, crostini recipe, easy party appetizers, Fall appetizer, Holiday Crostini, honey roasted butternut squash, Roated Butternut Squash Bites
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Shrimp Alfredo Linguine with Saffron

November 30, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 4 Comments

Shrimp Alfredo Linguine combines creamy homemade alfredo sauce, tender shrimp, and the complex aromatic flavors of saffron and garlic. This delicious dinner recipe is one the whole family will enjoy!


If you're looking for a simple seafood recipe, then this shrimp pasta alfredo recipe is sure to be a winner. Reminiscent of a restaurant favorite this easy pasta recipe lets you enjoy all the favor without ever leaving the comfort of home!

A white plate with Linguine Shrimp Alfredo sprinkled with saffron threads and chives.
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❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

✔️ This easy shrimp alfredo linguine recipe is a tasty pasta dinner ready in under 30 minutes!


✔️ This delicious recipe brings all the rich flavors of a restaurant alfredo to your dinner table!


✔️ Shrimp Alfredo Linguini is a classic recipe for a romantic date on Valentine's day or a dinner for two any day of the week!

🥘 Ingredients

Fresh linguine

 ⅓ less fat cream cheese

Unsalted butter

Heavy cream

Fresh garlic cloves 

Saffron threads

Olive oil

Large shrimp

Fresh parsley

🔪 Instructions

  1. In a large pot of water over high heat, cook the linguine pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¾ cup hot pasta liquid and stir in a generous pinch of saffron threads. Set aside.
  2. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large hot pan over medium heat. Drop in a generous pinch of saffron and cook for a minute.
  3. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Add it to the hot skillet and cook 3 minutes or until shrimp has just turned pink. Toss with 1 large clove minced garlic. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. In another saucepan heat the butter and cream cheese, whisking until smooth. Add the saffron infused pasta liquid along with ½ cup heavy cream and whisk to combine.
  5. Simmer the sauce on low 2-3 minutes until creamy. Transfer the saffron alfredo sauce to the skillet the shrimp is in and return to heat. Bring the shrimp mixture back to a simmer and scrape all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the frying pan.
  6. Toss the creamy shrimp sauce with the linguine and serve with chopped chives as a garnish.
Glass jar with saffron threads.

🙋 Recipe FAQ's

What is saffron?

Saffron is a spice derived from the Crocus sativus, a flower similar to the Iris. It known for its earthy aromatic flavors and vibrant orange to red threads.

Why is my alfredo sauce too thin?

The best way to create a creamy thick sauce that is not too thin is to simmer it over a medium low heat until the cream reduces in volume.

What's the best way to cook shrimp?

For the best cooking results sear or sauté the shrimp on high heat for just a few minutes on each side.

💭 Tips

  • Buy frozen raw large shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to save time.
  • Make this linguine alfredo with shrimp lower carb by substituting the pasta for zucchini noodles.
  • Add flavor and deglaze the skillet after cooking the shrimp with ¼ cup of sauvignon blanc.
Upclose image of raw shrimp in a colander.

📖 Variations

  • Sprinkle this creamy shrimp alfredo pasta with a single layer of parmesan cheese and seasoned bread crumbs for added texture.
  • Spice up this garlic linguini shrimp alfredo by adding ½ teaspoon of cajun seasoning to the sautéed shrimp.
  • Make this shrimp alfredo without cream cheese by using heavy cream or yogurt in its place.
  • Substitute fettuccine noodles for the linguine.
  • Make a traditional alfredo by omitting the saffron from the recipe.

🍽 Equipment

Large pot

Small saucepan

Large skillet

Colander

Whisk

🏫 What I've Learned

Saffron is a very pricey spice but only a little bit is needed to add the aromatic earthy flavor it adds to recipes. It is best to buy saffron in whole threads and to crush it into the sauce you are making.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this creamy shrimp alfredo linguini with a simple side salad, garlic bread, and a glass of white wine.

Shrimp Alfredo Linguine with saffron and chopped chives on a white plate.

Storage

Keep the alfredo shrimp linguine refrigerated in an airtight container for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Related Recipes 

Shrimp with Squash and Penne

Cajun Shrimp

Italian Shrimp Pasta with Spinach and Parmesan

Velvet Shrimp

Creamy Shrimp and Bacon Linguine

Shrimp with Spinach and Pasta


If you give this 4-bean salad a try, I'd love to hear how it turned out! Please leave a comment and ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below to let me know if you kept the heat mild or went all in with the jalapenos. Don't forget to tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your beautiful salad bowls!

📖 Recipe

Linguine with Shrimp in Saffron Cream Sauce

Shelby Law Ruttan
This shrimp pasta with cream sauce recipe has flecks of saffron infused into a creamy garlic sauce adding color and flavor to this traditional Italian-Style Alfredo.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 333 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Small saucepan
  • Large skillet
  • colander
  • Whisk

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • 9 ounces fresh linguine , cooked according to package directions, reserving ¾ cup hot liquid after pasta is cooked
  • 4 ounces ⅓ less fat cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large garlic cloves minced
  • 2 pinches saffron threads , divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot of water over high heat, cook the linguine pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¾ cup hot pasta liquid and stir in a generous pinch of saffron threads. Set aside.
  • Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large hot pan over medium heat. Drop in a generous pinch of saffron and cook for a minute.
  • Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Add it to the hot skillet and cook 3 minutes or until shrimp has just turned pink. Toss with 1 large clove minced garlic. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In another saucepan heat the butter and cream cheese, whisking until smooth. Add the saffron infused pasta liquid along with ½ cup heavy cream and whisk to combine.
  • Simmer the sauce on low 2-3 minutes until creamy. Transfer the saffron alfredo sauce to the skillet the shrimp is in and return to heat. Bring the shrimp mixture back to a simmer and scrape all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the frying pan.
  • Toss the creamy shrimp sauce with the linguine and serve with fresh chopped parsley or chives as a garnish.

Nutrition

Calories: 333kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 6gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 71mgSodium: 438mgPotassium: 131mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 771IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 69mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Alfredo Shrimp Linguine, Linguine Alfredo with Shrimp, Linguine with Shrimp in Saffron Cream Sauce
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Roasted Shrimp Tasting Spoons with Two Sauces

November 25, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 13 Comments

Elegant, delicious, and easy to make! Serve these Roasted Shrimp Tasting Spoons this holiday season to your friends and family!
Roasted Shrimp Tasting Spoons
I just love little bites.  Little bites, small plates, tasting plates, anything that is not of major proportion.  This is the way we should always eat in my opinion!  One of the reasons I dislike eating out is because of the amount of food they give you for a serving-it's like they encourage us to gorge and get fat!  It's my opinion, one serving is enough to feed two if not 3 comfortably.
Appetizer style eating really is so appealing and is becoming a whole lot more popular lately.  You can eat a little of this or that and not feel super stuffed.  I love a lot of variety but I don't love how much you get when you want to try more than one thing.   So, the places that are popping up that are offering the small plates are places I am a whole lot more interested in going to.
Roasted Shrimp Tasting Spoons
Which brings me to this post.  Have you seen the new tableware at Pier 1?  They have this new (well, new to me anyway) collection called the "tasting collection".  When I first saw it on their website I went crazy.  I knew I wanted some of these cute little dishes.  Unfortunately I can't afford to buy them in the sets but fortunately they do offer some of them individually!  I bought myself 3 of these cute little tasting spoons and a couple each of some other minis that you will see pop up on my blog here in the next few weeks.
Roasted Shrimp Tasting Spoons
The first thing I decided I was going to do was roast some shrimp and offer them up with a couple of different sauces.  One being a traditional cocktail sauce and the other a thousand island sauce.  Oh how cute these are!  I sometimes wish I could be a weekend hostess for fancy parties held at my fancy home and serve these fancy little bites.
Roasted Shrimp Tasting Spoons
I made this while Grumpy was off hunting and had something else ready for him to eat when he got home.  He had recently told me he was tired of shrimp (who gets tired of shrimp?!).  I didn't mind when he told me he was tired of pork chops because I never cared much to make them anyway.  That is why you don't see many pork chop recipes around here any more.  I really don't care to have that happen with shrimp because I tend to like it!  This was perfect for a little meal and I had a small salad to compliment.  The spice from the pepper and the sweet from the ketchup in the horseradish sauce as well as the 1000 Island sauce really made it yummy!
Roasted Shrimp Tasting Spoons with Two Sauces
Author: Grumpy's Honeybunch
Ingredients
  • 1 lb medium raw shrimp, peeled and de-veined
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
  • juice of ½ lemon
  • Thousand Island Dressing (Grumpy's favorite!)
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 Tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • salt and pepper
  • Cocktail Sauce
  • 2 Tablespoons grated horseradish
  • 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
  • 6 tablespoons ketchup
  • Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Place shrimp in ceramic roasting dish and toss with salt, pepper and lemon juice and bake until shrimp is no longer pink.
  2. Stir ingredients together for dressings in separate bowl for each dressing.  Store in refrigerator until ready to serve.
3.5.3208

Cabbage Noodles with Bacon

November 21, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 12 Comments

Cabbage Noodles topped with Bacon in a blue serving dish

This Cabbage Noodles with Bacon recipe is the ultimate comfort food side dish, also known as Haluski. It features tender fried cabbage and noodles tossed with crispy bacon for a savory, caramelized flavor the entire family will love.

Overhead view of cabbage noodles with bacon, carrots, and onions in a white bowl with a blue handle.

While this classic recipe is traditionally made with regular egg noodles, it is easily converted into Low Carb Cabbage Noodles by using Shirataki noodles. This versatile dish tastes great alongside proteins like Firemen's Grilled Chicken or Grilled Pork Chops or you could even add sliced kielbasa to make it a full meal..

Why You'll Love Cabbage Noodles

Classic comfort: this classic Haluski dish combines tender fried cabbage and noodles with savory, crispy bacon for a flavor the whole family will love.

Diet friendly: easily swap egg noodles for Shirataki noodles (affiliate link) to create a delicious low carb meal that fits both standard and keto lifestyles.

Quick and easy: this simple cabbage and noodles recipe comes together in minutes, making it the perfect side dish for busy weeknights.

Key Ingredients for Cabbage and Noodles

A fresh head of green cabbage alongside a bowl of sliced carrots, diced onions,  and a pacakage of noodles on a wooden table.

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

  • Cabbage: the heart of this dish, is a nutrient-dense superfood that becomes tender and slightly sweet when fried.
  • Bacon: adds a smoky, savory depth and provides the fat needed to perfectly caramelize the vegetables.
  • Egg noodles (use shirataki for low carb): these provide the classic, chewy texture that makes this traditional comfort food so satisfying.
  • Onions and carrots: these aromatics add essential layers of flavor and a natural sweetness to the dish.
  • Butter: combined with bacon fat, it ensures your fried cabbage and noodles are rich and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Low carb option: swap the traditional egg noodles for Shirataki noodles to make this a keto-friendly meal.
  • Vegetarian option: replace the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke and use extra butter to keep the smoky, savory flavor without the meat.
  • Veggie forward: use zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of pasta for a completely vegetable-based dish.
Shredded green cabbage in a black skillet topped with freshly cracked black pepper.

Recipe Variations

  • Added protein: stir in sliced kielbasa, smoked sausage, or leftover ham to make it a stand alone dish.
  • Spicy kick: add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the sautéing process.
  • Creamy finish: toss the hot noodles with a spoonful of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Top Tips for Perfect Cabbage Noodles

  • Maximize flavor: use the rendered bacon fat instead of oil to saute your vegetables for a deeper, smokier taste.
  • Control the texture: saute the cabbage just until it is crisp-tender to maintain a slight bite that complements the soft egg noodles.
  • Lower the carbs further: beyond swapping for Shirataki noodles, you can further reduce carb count by using fewer carrots and onions.
Overhead view of sauteed vegetables and bacon being prepared in a black skillet.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover Cabbage Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the fried cabbage and noodles in a skillet over medium heat with a small pat of butter until heated through.

Serve With...

Finish each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness.

Cabbage Noodles with Bacon in a blue serving bowl with a blue napkin in the background.

More Easy Cabbage Recipes to Try

We are huge cabbage fans! If you enjoyed this cabbage and noodles recipe, you will love these other flavorful dishes. From hearty Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup to our popular Keto Cabbage Rolls, this deconstructed Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole, and my popular Cabbage and Kielbasa Skillet recipe.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments below! Your feedback helps others discover this classic Haluski and lets me know how the dish turned out in your kitchen. Feel free to email me with any questions you may have.

📖 Recipe

Overhead view of cabbage noodles with bacon, carrots, and onions in a white bowl with a blue handle.

Cabbage Noodles with Bacon

Shelby Law Ruttan
This classic Cabbage Noodles recipe, also known as Haluski, featured tender fried cabbage and noodles caramelized with onions, carrots, and crispy bacon. Easily made with egg noodles or as a low carb cabbage noodles dish using shirataki, it's a versatile and savory side dish your family will love.
5 from 3 votes
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Keto Side Dish, Side Dish
Cuisine Polish
Servings 6
Calories 206 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet , or saute pan
  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • cutting board
  • Slotted Spoon , or tongs

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Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups thinly sliced cabbage
  • ½ cup carrots coin slices
  • ½ cup onion , diced
  • 2 slices bacon cooked until crisp and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 6 ounces egg noodles cooked according to package directions OR 8 oz package Shirataki Noodles, fettuccini style
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon ground pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Cook the egg noodles (or Shirataki noodles) according to package directions, then drain and toss them with 1 tablespoon of butter. 
  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crisp; remove and set aside, reserving the rendered fat in the pan.
  • Add the onions and carrots to the bacon fat and saute for about 3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
  • Stir in the cabbage, salt, and pepper, and stir-fry until the cabbage is crisp-tender with light caramelization.
  • Toss the buttered noodles into the skillet with the cabbage mixture, garnish with the reserved bacon, and serve warm.

Notes

When made with Shirataki noodles instead of egg noodles, this recipe will have the following nutrition information: `103 Calories, 3 g protein, 7g fat, 6g net carbs

Nutrition

Serving: 3/4 cupCalories: 206kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 39mgSodium: 467mgPotassium: 299mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2012IUVitamin C: 36mgCalcium: 56mgIron: 1mgNet Carbohydrates: 24g
Keyword Cabbage Noodles, Cabbage Noodles Recipe, Cabbage Noodles with Bacon, Fried cabbage and noodles, Haluski, Low carb cabbage noodles
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Stove Top Baby Back Ribs

November 19, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 7 Comments

Stove top ribs featured image.

Stove Top Baby Back Ribs are simmered until tender and then caramelized under the broiler or on the grill with your favorite BBQ Sauce. This easy method delivers juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs without needing hours on the smoker.

Stove top Ribs on a white plate.

These ribs are a family favorite for summer cookouts and are perfect with a side of Creamy BLT Pasta Salad. When the weather doesn't allow for grilling, finished them in the oven works just as well. And, for dessert, my Apple Crisp recipe is the perfect sweet ending.

Why you'll love it

Budget-friendly: Skip the restaurant markup and make tender, flavorful ribs right at home.

Tender every time: Simmering the ribs first ensures they turn out fall off the bone tender.

Flexible finish: Choose the oven or grill depending on the weather or your preference.

Baby back ribs in a stock pot with salt and pepper seasoning.

Key Ingredients

Baby Back Ribs: These pork ribs are smaller and more tender than spare ribs, making them ideal for quick cook methods.

Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances the pork flavor before adding BBQ sauce.

BBQ Sauce: Adds sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor. Use your favorite bottled or homemade sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs for a meatier bite (increase simmering time by 15-20 minutes).
  • Replace BBQ sauce with this Raspberry Chipotle Sauce.
  • Try a dry rub seasoning blend instead of sauce if you prefer a less messy rib.
Baby back ribs in the stock pot ready to put on the stove top.

Variations

Spicy Ribs: Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce.

Smoky Finish: Finish ribs on a charcoal grill for added smoky flavor.

Honey Garlic: Brush on a mixture of honey and minced garlic instead of BBQ sauce.

Top Tips

  • Always start with cold water to help draw out impurities for clearer flavors.
  • Cover the pot while bringing to a boil, then simmer uncovered to avoid overcooking.
  • Be gentle when flipping-tender ribs fall apart easily.
  • Watch colsely when broiling or grilling to avoid burning the sauce.
Stove-Top Baby Back Ribs after they have been grilled with barbecue sauce on a serving platter.

Storage Tips

  • Store cooled leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in the oven covered with foil at 300°F until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these ribs with Tomato Avocado Stack, Keto Potato Salad, or Keto Broccoli Salad from my site for a complete meal. Add a tall glass of tea or Rhubarb Lemonade and enjoy.

Related Recipes

  • Crockpot Venison Stew - Warm and Hearty
  • Slow Cooker Shredded Beef
  • Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs
  • Instant Pot Country Style Ribs
Ribs on the grill.

When you make this Stove Top Rib Recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Stove top ribs featured image.

Stove-top to Grill Baby Back Ribs

Shelby Law Ruttan
These Stove Top Baby Back Ribs are simmered until tender, then finished on the grill or under the broiler with BBQ sauce for a finger licking main dish that's always a hit.
4.78 from 9 votes
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 443 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Tongs
  • Silicone basting brush
  • Large baking sheet

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Ingredients
  

  • 1 rack baby back ribs , cut into 3 sections
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ Sauce

Instructions
 

  • Place the ribs in a large pot covered with water and seasoned with salt and pepper.  Bring ribs to a boil, turn heat down and simmer ribs until tender, about 1 hour.
  • While ribs are simmering, prepare baking sheet by covering with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. When ribs are cooked, remove from pot, place on baking sheet and slather with as much BBQ sauce as you want on the bottom side.  
  • Place on hot grill and grill for 5 minutes on each side.
  • Slather more sauce on the top side of the ribs before removing from the grill if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 443kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 28gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 99mgSodium: 859mgPotassium: 519mgFiber: 1gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 192IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 68mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Baby Back Ribs, Stove Top Baby Back Ribs
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Cream Puff Bites with Chocolate Irish Cream Pudding

November 14, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 9 Comments

I know this sounds terribly fattening, but I promise you, it isn't and not only because these are "bites"!  It's been quite some time since I made cream puffs and I almost guarantee that after my daughter in law Kristina sees these she will want me to make the mini puffs for her when they visit after Christmas!  I'm pretty certain she will want a different filling, but I know she loves mini cream puffs as she requested them as part of her bridal shower brunch we had for her!

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These little puffs are just the most perfect little dessert bite to offer at your holiday gathering, be it Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Years!  The slightly sweet tiny bite of cream puff with the Chocolate Irish Cream Pudding drizzled with a homemade Irish Cream Caramel Sauce (recipe to come at a later time), just the perfect end to an evening.  I'm quite certain this would be just as yummy with a vanilla custard pudding in place of the chocolate.  The shells themselves are slightly sweet and the dough was so easy to make!  The recipe comes from my Cooking Light Holiday Cookbook (see, I told you it wasn't going to be bad for you!).  I never have seen this method for making cream puff dough before but I promise you it is so easy that you will have no trouble doing it, not to mention it takes much less time so, make a batch of these little yummy puffs up and serve them up with your favorite fillings - savory or sweet!  I can see these with a shrimp, crab, or chicken salad filling in place of the pudding.  Perfect bites for the holidays that will not pack on the pounds!

Following the cream puff recipe is the pudding recipe....and feel free to serve the pudding in the little tasting parfaits (make sure to use the cute little tasting spoons too!).

Cream Puff Shells

1 cup water
3 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 large egg whites

Cover a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine water, 3 tablespoons butter, 2 teaspoons sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a large heavy saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.  Bring to boil, remove from heat.  Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife.  Add flour to water mixture, stirring well until smooth and mixture pulls away from sides of pan.  Return pan to heat and cook 30 seconds more, stirring constantly.  Remove from heat.  Add eggs and egg whites, 1 at a time, beating with a hand mixer at medium speed just until combined.  This is the easy part - the hand mixer makes all the difference, so much less effort!  Once all the eggs have been mixed in beat 1 minute more at medium speed.

Drop dough into mounds using a small cookie scoop placing about 2 inches apart, on prepared baking sheet.  Bake at 425 for 25 minutes (place cookie sheet on lowest rack in oven to prevent over browning of tops).  Turn heat down to 350 and bake an additional 20 minutes.  Turn oven off; partially open oven door.  Pierce each puff with a knife; cool puffs in oven 20 minutes.  Remove from oven, cool completely on a wire rack.

Chocolate & Irish Cream Pudding
1 egg
1-½ cups almond milk (you can use low-fat cow's milk - I just always use almond)
¼ cup Hershey's Cocoa Powder
⅔ cups granulated sugar
3 Tablespoons cornstarch
2 Tablespoons butter
¼ cup Bailey's Irish Cream

Whisk egg in a small bowl and set aside.  In medium sized heavy bottomed saucepan, mix milk, cocoa, sugar, and cornstarch together.  Add milk and whisk to combine.  Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until pudding thickens, about 5-7 minutes.  Remove from heat and pour one ladle of hot mixture into bowl with whisked egg, whisking constantly while pouring hot pudding into the egg.  Return the egg mixture into the pudding mixture and blend well.  Return to heat and cook until pudding just comes to a boil again.  Remove from heat.  Add butter and Irish Cream.  Transfer pudding to another bowl and lay plastic wrap over top of the pudding to prevent skin from forming.  Once cooled, use in cream puffs or serve in miniature parfait glasses.  Serve any remaining pudding in refrigerator with plastic wrap covering top of pudding.



Sweet Corn Muffins

November 13, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 8 Comments

Sweet Corn Muffins are delicious served with warm with butter or as a side to a bowl of Spicy Sweet Chili! These moist muffins are also great for breakfast with a side of eggs, as a snack, with hot dog bites baked right into the muffin!
Sweet Corn Muffins
At work recently we had a fall potluck and several people had put chili on the list of things to bring.  While I at first I thought I would take a slow cooker dish, I ended up deciding that I should make something sweet and bread-y to compliment all that Buffalo Chicken Chili that so many people were contributing!   I did a search for sweet corn bread on allrecipes and came up with one that I decided I was going to go with.  These would also be great with some chopped jalapeno in the batter contrasting that sweet with a little bite of heat!
Sweet Corn Muffins
These turned out great.  Like the recipe promised, they were moist.  I doubled the recipe but I also cut the sugar down.  While I wanted sweet, I didn't want cupcake sweet and to me it just had too much sugar in it.  If you're looking for a sweeter, moist corn muffin to compliment your spicy chili, this is a great one to go with!
Sweet Corn Muffins
Author: Grumpy's Honeybunch
Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 20 mins
Serves: 3 dozen
Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1-½ cups sugar
  • 1-½ cups cornmeal
  • 2 tablespoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups unsweetened plain almond milk
Instructions
  1. In large mixing bowl sift together flour, sugar, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In another smaller bowl (I use a 4 cup glass measuring cup) whisk the 4 eggs and 1 cup of milk together. Add egg/milk mixture and butter to flour mixture and stir until just moistened. Add remaining cup of milk and stir until all mixture is wet. Don't over-stir...while the recipe at AR states to use a hand mixer, I wouldn't do it. I've always applied the don't over mix muffins to all muffin recipes.
  3. Bake in 350 oven for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean and tops of muffins no longer look wet. I wholeheartedly believe that if you over bake your muffin, its going to be tough. So, if it looks dry on the top and dry to the touch and its been only 15 minutes, pull them out!
  4. This made 3 dozen standard sized muffins. I doubled the recipe which stated that it made 12. Maybe the twelve in the original recipe was for jumbo sized muffins, I'm not sure. However, these were perfect sized to sit alongside some hot chili!
3.5.3226

Pin It - Sweet Corn MuffinsSweet Corn Muffins

Pumpkin Spiced Steel Oats

November 12, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 13 Comments

Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal in a white bowl topped with dried cranberries and walnuts.

Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal is a warm, comforting bowl perfect for cool mornings when you want something hearty and naturally sweet. The slow-simmered oats soak u the pumpkin and spices, giving you a creamy fall breakfast that's simple but full of flavor.

Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal in a white bowl topped with dried cranberries and walnuts.

Grown up in northern New York, mornings were often chilly enough to call for a nourishing bowl like this. It reminds me of the cozy breakfasts my mom would make before school, and it fits right in with many of my favorite oatmeal-style recipes here on the blog.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Why You'll Love Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal

Warm comfort: creamy oats with pumpkin and spices create the cozy fall breakfast everyone loves.

Naturally sweet: maple syrup adds richness without being overly sweet, making it a healthy pumpkin oatmeal option.

Easy toppings: toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and a swirl of cream turn this into something special without much effort.

Key Ingredients for This Fall Breakfast

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

  • Steel cut oats: give this recipe its hearty texture and long-lasting warmth.
  • Pumpkin puree: add creaminess and that classic fall flavor.
  • Maple syrup: pure maple syrup brings depth and balances the spices.
  • Walnuts: toasted walnut pieces add crunch and pair perfectly with pumpkin.
  • Warm spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspicei give this healthy pumpkin oatmeal the signature seasonal taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use old-fashioned oats instead of steel cut oats for a quicker cook time.
  • Swap almond milk or oat milk for regular milk.
  • Replace walnuts with pecans for a softer crunch and sweeter flavor.

Variations on Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal

  • Pumpkin Apple Oats: stir in cooked cinnamon apples for extra sweetness.
  • Protein Pumpkin Oats: use protein boosted milk in place of regular milk. Add unflavored protein powder at the end if you want a bigger boost.
  • Pumpkin Chocolate Oats: mix in dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a richer breakfast.

Tips for Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal

  • Let the oats steam for 10 minutes after cooking to get the perfect creamy texture.
  • Add the pumpkin after cooking, not before, so the oats absorb the liquid correctly.
  • Toast the walnuts lightly so their flavor stands out against the warm spices.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop of in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to bring back the creaminess.

More Fall Breakfast Recipes You'll Love

If you love this recipe, try my Pumpkin Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls, Pumpkin Cranberry Chip Muffins, Pumpkin Granola, Homemade Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tarts, and Steel Cut Oat Cakes with Cranberry Maple Syrup.

When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal in a white bowl topped with dried cranberries and walnuts.

Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal

Shelby Law Ruttan
This Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal is warm, creamy, and lightly sweetened with maple syrup, making it a cozy breakfast for crisp mornings. It's a nourishing bowl that brings together pumpkin, spice, and a touch of cream for a simple fall breakfast you'll want again and again.
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Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 342 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small skillet (for toasting walnuts)
  • Serving bowls

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Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup steel cut oats
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons pumpkin
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon allspice
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¾ cup pure maple syrup
  • ¼ cup toasted walnut pieces
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 6 tablespoons dried cranberries

Instructions
 

  • In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring water, milk, and salt to a boil.
  • Add steel cut oats and stir. Bring to a simmer, cover and let cook about 10 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.
  • Stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, maple syrup, and heavy cream. Garnish with walnuts and cranberries.

Nutrition

Calories: 342kcalCarbohydrates: 63gProtein: 7gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 11mgSodium: 74mgPotassium: 215mgFiber: 4gSugar: 39gVitamin A: 771IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 125mgIron: 1mgNet Carbohydrates: 58g
Keyword Pumpkin Steel Cut Oatmeal
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Saffron Almond Rice Pilaf

November 7, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 18 Comments

This recipe for Almond Rice Pilaf is infused with saffron and studded with black olives and red bell pepper. The saffron in this rice side dish brings a sweet earthy taste along with the buttery nutty flavors from the toasted almonds.

Saffron Almond Rice Pilaf

Today's the big day and I almost didn't make it!  Last week my computer bit the dust again and this time it was final.  Grumpy took me to Best Buy and we found the netbook I wanted to hold me over until we can afford to buy me a nicer laptop to do all my blog work on.  Friday night I had the netbook and Saturday I made this dish all over again!  It certainly wasn't a problem that I had to make it all over again because it was delicious!

It is our reveal day for the Secret Recipe Club - Group A.  My assigned blog was The Slow Roasted Italian and I was very pleased!  I have been reading Donna's blog for a little while now.  The first two things that attracted me to her blog when I found it were her photos and her cocktails.
Saffron Almond Rice Pilaf

I decided to do my own take with the saffron rice recipe on her site and create this Saffron Almond Rice Pilaf recipe.  This dish reminded me a lot of one my mom used to make when I was a young girl and that was the big attraction to make it. 

Mom always put sliced almonds in her rice pilaf and I loved the flavor it added to the dish!  This recipe is reheats well and is a great side dish to beef, steak, chicken, or pork.
Saffron Almond Rice Pilaf

As I was reading over the recipe for this rice, Donna mentioned that she diced the onions finely (and I see she didn't use too many either!) because Mr. W doesn't like to many onions.  Hmm, he has that in common with Grumpy.  I LOVE onions and tend to add a lot and when I do I hear it from Grumpy!

 

Related Recipes

Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe

3 Ingredient Cauliflower Spanish Rice

Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

Butternut Steak Rice Bowl


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When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Saffron Almond Rice Pilaf

Shelby Law Ruttan
An easy rice pilaf recipe with saffron and toasted almonds that makes a delicious side dish to beef, chicken and pork.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Asian
Servings 6
Calories 414 kcal

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Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 pinch saffron threads
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • ¼ cup chopped onion
  • ½ red bell pepper , diced
  • ½ cup sliced black olives
  • ⅓ cup slivered almonds , toasted
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions
 

  • In a large saucepan over medium high heat, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Turn off the heat and add the saffron, salt and pepper; set aside.
  • Heat the butter in a large saucepan over medium high heat until melted and bubbly. Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes, until onion begins to soften.
  • Add the basmati rice to the onions and stir over medium high heat for 2 minutes, until the rice begins to brown.
  • Add the broth mixture to the rice, bring to a boil then turn heat down to simmer, cover the pot and simmer for 10 minutes, until the rice has absorbed water and is no longer crunchy.

To toast the almonds

  • While the rice is cooking, place the almonds in a 350 degree oven. Watch carefully and stir often as they will burn quickly.
  • Once browned, remove the almonds from the oven and transfer to a bowl until ready to add to pilaf.
  • Remove the rice from the heat and stir in the red pepper, black olives, almonds, and parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

You do not need to saute the red pepper - so don't be tempted to add it to the onions. It will be mushy if you do. Just stirring them in after the rice is cooked is good enough as the heat and steam from the cooked rice will soften them a little. It is nice to have them had a little crispiness in the dish - the nuts add that awesome crunch too - I chopped mine up a little after toasting them.

Nutrition

Calories: 414kcalCarbohydrates: 57gProtein: 8gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 1371mgPotassium: 238mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1390IUVitamin C: 28mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Almond Rice Pilaf, Rice Pilaf Recipe, Saffron Almond Rice Pilaf, Saffron Rice Pilaf
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Sauteed Chicken Tenders

October 31, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 9 Comments

Featured image for sauteed chicken tenders.

These Sauteed Chicken Tenders are paired with a garlic tomato sauce and tossed with pasta for a quick weeknight dinner. It is one of my favorite recipe for chicken pasta dishes and is packed with protein and flavor.

Hero Image for Sauteed Chicken Tenders with Garlic Tomato Sauce.
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❤️ Why you'll love it

✔️ This easy chicken dinner is one of the best ways to make a quick and easy meal on busy weeknights and leftovers are great the next day.

✔️ It is a healthy meal that is an easy recipe for the beginner cook.

✔️ This is one of the best chicken tender recipes for kids and the whole family will love it.

🥘 Ingredients

Chicken tenderloins: these cook fast and make it easy on weeknights.

Black pepper: to season the chicken when cooking.

Olive oil

Garlic cloves

Fresh parsley, I like to use fresh herbs for fresher flavors, but dried parsley can be used as well.

Diced tomatoes with liquid, don't drain the liquid for this recipe.

Vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

Chicken bouillon cube, intensifies the flavor of the sauce and adds saltiness.

Tomato paste, this adds deeper flavor and aids in thickening the tomato sauce.

Bucatini pasta, this is what I used (I love i!), but you can use any pasta you have in the pantry.

Sauteed Chicken Tenders in a skillet.
Diced canned tomatoes.
Canned diced tomatoes are something most people already have on hand and make weeknight dinners easy.
Chopped fresh parsley in a bowl.
Adding fresh parsley to the garlic tomato sauce adds a boost of freshness to this dish.
Dried bucatini pasta in a stack.
Bucatini pasta is my pasta of choice as I love how the sauce flows thru the tube of the pasta! Regular spaghetti works well here also.

🔪 Instructions

  1. On a large skillet over medium high heat, heat olive oil until hot. Place chicken tenders in hot oil and season with black pepper. 
  2. In a large pot over high heat, cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water to make the tomato sauce.
  3. Cook tenders for 4 minutes on each side, reducing heat to medium heat if needed. Remove chicken pieces from pan and set aside.
  4. Leave oil from cooking chicken in pan. Add garlic to the oil and stir-fry for one minute.
  5. Add chopped parsley and stir-fry another 30 seconds. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, and chicken bouillon cube. 
  6. Bring tomato sauce to a boil then reduce heat. Place sauteed chicken tenders back in the skillet and simmer covered for 15 minutes. 
  7. Remove cover, remove chicken and set aside. 
  8. Add tomato paste and whisk into the sauce to combine. Simmer tomato sauce uncovered for 5 minutes or until sauce reduces in volume and thickens. 
  9. Return chicken to the sauce along with cooked pasta and toss to coat.

🥄 Equipment

Large skillet

Tongs

🥫Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days.

📖 Variations

  • Bread the chicken breast tender in an egg wash and coat with bread crumbs. Fry in the skillet as instructed. Do not return to the skillet, rather make the sauce and then serve the sauce with pasta and crispy chicken strips. Top with fresh grated parmesan.
  • Saute ½ onion and red bell pepper, and mushrooms with the garlic to add chunky vegetables to the sauce.
  • Substitute chicken thighs, chicken cutlets, for the tenders. If using chicken breast, cut into strips or small pieces to enable quick cooking.
  • To add more flavors, season the chicken tenders with onion powder and garlic powder along with the black pepper when sauteeing.
Featured image for sauteed chicken tenders.

💭 Tips

  • Be sure to use a large enough pan, you want a large skillet with tall sides so you can cook the strips and the sauce in the same pan.
  • Make your own breast tenders by slicing a chicken breast into strips.
  • No need for a meat thermometer for this chicken recipe as the tenders are cooked long enough in the tomato sauce to ensure they are well cooked. However, if you use a larger cut (such as a chicken breast) be sure to check the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
  • Reduce fat by using olive oil cooking spray instead of olive oil.

📚 Related Recipes

Cheesy Penne Chicken Pasta

Cajun Chicken Pasta - a copycat recipe

Thai Peanut Chicken and Noodles

Baked Ziti with Italian Chicken Sausage

🍽 Serve with...

Serve these chicken tenders in tomato sauce with a green salad and side of homemade soft white bread or cheesy garlic bread.

🏫 The last word

I do not season the chicken tenders with salt when cooking due to the use of chicken bouillon. The bouillon adds enough salt to balance the flavors out. If more salt is needed, I recommend it be added to taste by each individual serving.


If you give this 4-bean salad a try, I'd love to hear how it turned out! Please leave a comment and ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below to let me know if you kept the heat mild or went all in with the jalapenos. Don't forget to tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your beautiful salad bowls!

📖 Recipe

Featured image for sauteed chicken tenders.

Sauteed Chicken Tenders in Garlic Tomato Sauce

Shelby Law Ruttan
Chicken tenders are sauteed in a skillet then simmered in a seasoned garlic tomato sauce and served over your favorite pasta shape.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Keto Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 440 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Tongs

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Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 pounds chicken breast tenders
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes with liquid
  • 1½ cup vegetable broth
  • ½ cup hot pasta water , reserved from boiling pasta
  • 1 chicken boullion cube
  • 1½ tablespoon tomato paste
  • 12 ounces bucatini pasta

Instructions
 

  • On a large skillet over medium high heat, heat olive oil until hot. Place chicken tenders in hot oil and season with black pepper. 
  • In a large pot over high heat, cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water to make the tomato sauce.
  • Cook tenders for 4 minutes on each side, reducing heat to medium heat if needed. Remove chicken pieces from pan and set aside.
  • Leave oil from cooking chicken in pan. Add garlic to the oil and stir-fry for one minute.
  • Add chopped parsley and stir-fry another 30 seconds. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, and chicken bouillon cube. Bring tomato sauce to a boil then reduce heat. Place sauteed chicken tenders back in the skillet and simmer covered for 15 minutes. 
  • Remove cover, remove chicken and set aside. Add tomato paste and whisk into the sauce to combine. Simmer tomato sauce uncovered for 5 minutes or until sauce reduces in volume and thickens. 
  • Serve chicken and sauce over top of pasta or toss pasta with sauce before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 440kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 40gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 97mgSodium: 505mgPotassium: 815mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 391IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 39mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Chicken in Garlic Tomato Sauce
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Steel Cut Oat Cakes with Cranberry Maple Syrup

October 30, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 13 Comments

Sauteed steel cut oat cake topped with cranberry-infused maple syrup and toasted walnuts on a white plate.

These Steel Cut Oat Cakes with Cranberry Maple Syrup are a make-ahead breakfast option that turns simple steel cut oats into something you can slice, pan-fry, and serve with confidence. They're lightly sweet, hearty, and finsihed with a warm cranberry-infused maple syrup that makes them ust right for breakfast or brunch.

Sauteed steel cut oat cake topped with cranberry-infused maple syrup and toasted walnuts on a white plate.

I like recipes like this that do a little extra work upfront and pay it back later in the week. If you enjoy make-ahead breakfasts like my Pumpkin Overnight Oats or my Mushroom Strata Recipe, then this recipe fits right in with that same easy, practical style.

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Why You'll Love This Steel Cut Oats Cakes Recipe

Make ahead: these oat cakes can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making mornings much easier.

Great texture: chilling the oats helps them hold together, and pan-frying gives the outside a lightly crisp edge with a tender center.

Flexible serving: these steel cut oat breakfast cakes work for everyday breakfasts, weekend brunch, or even breakfast-for-dinner.

Key Ingredients for Steel Cut Oat Breakfast Cakes

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

  • Steel cut oats: the base of the recipe, giving structure and a hearty bite once chilled and sliced.
  • Almond milk: adds creaminess without overpowering the oats. Dairy milk or oat milk also work well.
  • Brown sugar: lightly sweetens the oats without making them overly rich.
  • Dried cranberries: simmered into the syrup, adding tart contrast to the maple flavor.
  • Pure maple syrup: creates a simple naturally sweet topping that pairs well with the oats.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use oat milk or dairy milk in place of almond milk.
  • Swap maple sugar or coconut sugar for the brown sugar.
  • Replace dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins for a different flavor profile.

Variations on Steel Cut Oat Cakes

  • Nutty crunch: stir chopped walnuts or pecans into the oat mixture before chilling for added texture.
  • Spiced oats: add cinnamon or cardamom to the oats while cooking for a warm spice note.
  • Fruit-forward topping: skip the cranberry syrup and serve the cakes with fresh berries and plain maple syrup.

Tips for Perfect Fried Steel Cut Oats

  • Chill fully: let the oats chill at least one hour, longer if possible, so they slice cleanly into squares or triangles.
  • Flip gently: use a thin spatula and give the cakes time to brown before turning to help them hold together.
  • Watch the syrup: once the maple syrup starts to bubble, reduce the heat quickly, it thickens fast.
A golden brown, pan fried steel cut oat square drizzled with warm cranberry maple syrup.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover steel cut oat cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or warm briefly in the microwave, then add syrup just before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Steel Cut Oat Cakes

Serve these steel cut oat cakes with cranberry maple syrup alongside savory breakfast favorites like poached eggs or air fryer bacon.

Other topping ideas instead of the syrup would be fresh mixed berries, salted maple butter spread, or honey cinnamon butter.

More Breakfast Recipes You'll Love

For more breakfast inspiration, try my Pumpkin Spiced Steel Oats, Healthy All Bran Muffins, Gingerbread Waffles, and Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole.

I love seeing these recipes come to life in your kitchens! If you enjoyed these oat cakes, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below. And, don't forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or use #grumpyshoneybunch so I can share your delicious creations!

📖 Recipe

Sauteed steel cut oat cake topped with cranberry-infused maple syrup and toasted walnuts on a white plate.

Steel Cut Oat Cakes with Cranberry Maple Syrup

Shelby Law Ruttan
Steel Cut Oat Cakes with Cranberry Maple Syrup are a hearty breakfast option made by chilling cooked oats, slicing them into cakes, and pan frying until lightly crisp. Finished with a warm maple syrup topping, they're a practical and comforting way to start the day.
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Chill time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins
Course Breakfast & Brunch
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 293 kcal

Equipment

  • Large saucuepan
  • 9x13 baking dish
  • Non-stick skillet , or griddle
  • Thin spatula
  • Sharp knife

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

For the steel cut oat cakes:

  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1-½ cups steel cut oats
  • Cooking Spray

For the syrup:

  • ½ cup dried cranberries , optional
  • 1 cup pure maple syrup , optional

Instructions
 

  • Bring the water, milk, salt, and brown sugar to a boil. Add steel oats and bring back to a boil, then turn burner down to a simmer. Simmer about 20 minutes or until oats have thickened and liquid is absorbed.
  • Spray a 9×13 pan with cooking spray. Pour oat mixture into pan. Set aside to cool. When cool, place in refrigerator to chill at least one hour (longer is better).
  • When you are ready to sauté the oat cakes, removed pan from refrigerator and turn pan upside down. You may need to jiggle one side loose, but once you do that, the rest will fall out of the pan fairly easily. Cut oats into squares or triangles.
  • I used a little butter to sauté my cakes but you can also use cooking spray. Heat frying pan over medium heat and once butter sizzles, or pan is hot, add oat cakes you have cut into pan. Let sauté about 3-4 minutes or until browned, then turn to sauté other side. While your cakes are sizzling, add your syrup and cranberries to a small sauce pan and turn heat onto high. Once syrup starts to bubble, turn heat down to bring just to a simmer. Simmer 2-3 minutes - don't go much longer as this will thicken quick fast.
  • Place cakes on serving plate and top with cranberry infused syrup. Top with toasted walnuts if desired.

Notes

 

Nutrition

Calories: 293kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 10gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gSodium: 382mgPotassium: 18mgFiber: 7gSugar: 13gCalcium: 120mgIron: 3mgNet Carbohydrates: 47g
Keyword cranberry maple oat cakes, make ahead breakfast oats, make ahead steel cut oats, pan fried steel cut oats, steel cut oat breakfast cakes, Steel Cut Oat Cakes, steel cut oat squares, steel cut oats for breakfast, steel cut oats with maple syrup
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Browned Butter

October 20, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 19 Comments

Cheese ravioli tossed with roasted butternut squash in a sage brown butter sauce served on an orange plate.

This Butternut Squash Ravioli is a cozy past dish that brings together tender cheese ravioli, roasted squash, and a nutty brown butter sage sauce. It's simple enough for weeknights but feels special enough to serve guests.

Upclose image of Butternut Squash Ravioli with sage browned butter on an orange plate.

I've always loved the balance of sweet squash and savory sage, and this recipe reminds me of the comforting fall meals I used to make for my boys. If you enjoy easy seasonal dishes like my Butternut Squash Galette, you'll feel right at home with this fall pasta recipe.

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Why You'll Love this Butternut Squash Ravioli

Easy assembly: using cheese ravioli keeps the recipe simple without losing flavor.

Cozy flavor: roasted squash and brown butter sage create the perfect comfort food dinner.

Seasonal feel: it's a fall pasta recipe that brings warmth to the table.

Key Ingredients for this Fall Pasta Recipe

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

  • Cheese ravioli: fresh or frozen works, making this an easy ravioli recipe for any night.
  • Butternut squash: roasted until caramelized for sweetness and texture.
  • Butter: browning it brings out a rich, nutty flavor.
  • Fresh sage: earthy, aromatic, and the perfect match for squash.
  • Cayenne pepper: a little heat balances the sweetness of the squash

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use sweet potato instead of butternut squash for a similar texture.
  • Swap spinach ravioli for the cheese ravioli.
  • Replace sage with fresh thyme for a different flavor profile.

Variations on Butternut Squash Ravioli

  • Add a spoonful of toasted walnuts or pine nuts for crunch.
  • Drizzle a touch of maple syrup over the squash before roasting for a sweeter profile.
  • Stir in a handful of baby spinach right before serving for extra color and nutrients.
Cheese ravioli tossed with roasted butternut squash in a sage brown butter sauce served on an orange plate.

Tips for the Best Browned Butter Sage

  • Slice sage into thin ribbons so it crisps evenly.
  • Keep the heat low and watch for golden speckles in the butter. This is when the flavor develops.
  • Add the ravioli right into the skillet to soak up all that delicious brown butter sage sauce.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

More Easy Fall Recipes You'll Love

If you enjoy seasonal pasta dishes, you might also like my Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese, Ham and Noodle Casserole (Leftover Ham Recipe), Butternut Squash Pasta Bake with Sausage, and Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese.

When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Cheese ravioli tossed with roasted butternut squash in a sage brown butter sauce served on an orange plate.

Butternut Squash Ravioli and Sage Browned Butter

Shelby Law Ruttan
This Butternut Squash Ravioli is a warm and comforting pasta dish featuring roasted squash and rich brown butter sage sauce tossed with cheese raviolis. It's the perfect fall pasta recipe to serve as a cozy main dish or a seasonal side.
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Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 418 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Sharp knife
  • cutting board
  • colander

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • 22 ounces cheese ravioli (I used frozen premade cheese ravioli)
  • 2 cups roasted butternut squash
  • 8 sage leaves sliced into ribbons
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • dash or two of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Cook cheese ravioli according to package directions.
  • While ravioli is cooking, start the brown butter sauce. In a large skillet, place butter over medium heat and once butter starts to bubble add sage. Watch carefully so butter does not burn. Swirl butter and sage occasionally and when you see the butter has started to brown, remove from heat.
  • Drain pasta and add to butter/sage mixture and toss lightly. Gently stir in squash cubes.

Nutrition

Calories: 418kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 16gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 71mgSodium: 882mgPotassium: 167mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 5136IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 46mgIron: 11mgNet Carbohydrates: 44g
Keyword Butternut Squash Ravioli, comfort food dinner, easy ravioli recipe, fall comfort meals, fall pasta recipe, ravioli with brown butter sage, roasted butternut squash pasta, sage butter pasta
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies (Gluten-Free)

October 17, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 17 Comments

Featured image for pumpkin whoopie pie.

These Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are soft, cake-like cookies filled with a creamy marshmallow center that tastes just like fall. They're made with warm spices and real pumpkin, creating a dessert that feels like something straight out of Grandma's kitchen.

Featured image for pumpkin whoopie pie.

I've always loved the smell of pumpkin baking in the oven. It reminds me of cozy afternoons back home when we'd mix up something sweet just as the leaves started to turn. If you enjoy my Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Butter Rum Frosting, you'll love this nostalgic twist that's just as soft and full of fall flavor.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Soft centers: each cookie bakes up tender and cake-like, the perfect texture for sandwiching that sweet filling.

Fall flavors: cinnamon, ginger, and pumpkin make every bite taste like autumn.

Gluten-free goodness: you'd never guess these pumpkin whoppie pies are made without wheat flour.

Key Ingredients for Gluten-Free Whoopie Pies

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

  • Pumpkin puree: brings moisture and natural sweetness, giving that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
  • Rice flours: a blend of white and sweet rice flour keeps the cookies sot with just the right crumb.
  • Cinnamon and ginger: these spices add warmth and depth to every bite.
  • Marshmallow filling: a mix of butter, shortening, and marshmallow cream makes a fluffy, nostalgic center that holds the pies together beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use potato starch in place of cornstarch if needed.
  • Substitute all butter for the shortening in the filling for a richer flavor.
  • Try maple extract instead of vanilla for a fun fall twist.
Soft pumpkin cookies with a marshmallow cream filling on a pumpkin platter.

Variations on Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

  • Chocolate chip pumpkin pies: stir mini chocolate chips into the batter for extra sweetness.
  • Cream cheese filling: replace the marshmallow cream with cream cheese buttercream for a tangier contrast.
  • Mini whoopie pies: use a teaspoon scoop for bite-sized treats perfect for sharing.

Tips for the Best Gluten Free Cookies

  • Use room temperature ingredients. This helps the batter blend smoothly and evenly.
  • Don't overmix. Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
  • Cool completely before filling. This keeps the marshmallow cream from melting into the cookies.

How to Store and Reheat

Store whoopie pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To enjoy them again, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving so the filling softens.

More Fall Desserts You'll Love

If you enjoy baking with pumpkin, try my Pumpkin Spice Waffles, Pumpkin Granola, Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies, and Pumpkin Pie Pudding Dessert.

When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Featured image for pumpkin whoopie pie.

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Shelby Law Ruttan
These Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are soft, spiced, and filled with a creamy marshmallow center. A nostalgic fall dessert that's naturally gluten-free and perfect for sharing.
5 from 2 votes
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Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 208 kcal

Equipment

  • Electric hand mixer
  • mixing bowls
  • Small cookie scoop
  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Cooling Rack

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

For the cookies

  • 1 cup white rice flour
  • ½ cup sweet rice flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum
  • ½ cup butter , softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs , room temperature, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Marshmallow Filling

  • ½ cup unsalted butter , room temperature
  • ¼ cup vegetable shortening
  • ¾ cup confectioners' sugar
  • 7½ ounces marshmallow cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.  Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.  Set aside.
  •  In a medium bowl, whisk together dry ingredients.  In a large bowl of a cream together butter and sugar until thick.  
  • Add eggs, one at a time and mix until incorporated,  Scrape sides of the bowl as you are going along. 
  • Add half of the dry ingredients. Mix until thoroughly incorporated.  Add pumpkin and vanilla extract. Mix until combined. Add remaining ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms.
  • Using a small cookie scoop, (about 1 tablespoon sized scoop), place batter on cookie sheet covered with parchment paper, about 2 inches apart.  Bake for 15 minutes, or until cakes are golden brown and firm to the touch.  
  • While cakes cool, prepare filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and vegetable shortening until light and fluffy. Use high speed on a handheld mixer. Add the powdered sugar and mix until combined. Add the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy. Sandwich cooled whoopie pies together with marshmallow filling.

Nutrition

Calories: 208kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 1gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 36mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 39mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 1848IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 19mgIron: 0.3mgNet Carbohydrates: 28g
Keyword fall baking recipe, gluten free cookies, Gluten Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, marshmallow filling, Pumpkin Cookies, pumpkin desserts, pumpkin sandwich cookies, Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Almond Cream Cheese Frosting

October 14, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 13 Comments

This time of year seems to have a lot of birthdays.  One very important one that I missed and felt oh so terrible for because its one I never want to miss....and that is my very special nephew Matthew.  Remember this photo?  You just gotta love that crinkle in his nose and look in his eye while he's chowing down on that cupcake!

We have had so much going on here lately that I totally let his birthday slip by me.  I actually remembered on the day but not early enough to have sent him a birthday gift.  Oh what a bad Auntie I was this year.  I have to make it up to him.  I did call him (on his own cell phone) as soon as it hit me that it was his birthday.  I think the insurance agent who had me on the phone thought I was having a heart attack when I heard him say today was 10/10.  Matt was having dinner at Steak n Shake-seems to be one of his favorite places to eat!  I am so sorry that I am late sending his gift, but I'm hoping he will forgive me and be a happy camper when he does receive it.  Oh the guilt we feel when someone special to us is forgotten.

So, with my confession out of the way, let me tell you how hard it has been to remember anyone's birthday lately.  Maybe its the fact that I myself turned another year older not so long ago?  In any case, my brother, my cousin, my father-in-law, my nephew.  My dad's birthday is coming up at the end of this month, along with my aunt's, and.that is just my family that all had birthdays within a few weeks of each other! My goodness, am I ever so glad I do not have to remember my children at this time of year also because I am already broke as it is!

We also have had several birthday celebrations at work - one of which I happened to make this pretty little cupcake for.  Have you ever noticed that when you see something pretty that you have a hard time not taking several photos?  Then trying to decide which ones to use can be a hardship too.  🙂

I also have surprise for you!
I was visited.  Visited by the Fairy Hobmother.
Not too long ago I happened to be reading a friends blog, Megan's of Megan's Cookin.  She had made this awesome Caprese Quinoa Salad and she had been visited by the Fairy Hobmother who gave her a gift.  When I left a comment on Megan's blog I wasn't really thinking about getting a visit or receiving a gift.  As most of you know, I rarely participate in giveaways and happen chance.  I never expected a visit from Ian and totally forgot all about it.  Until the other day.  
I received an email from Ian reminding me that I had left a comment on that particular post of Megan's.  Ian is from Appliances Online who is currently promoting the Bosch Logixx range of appliances.  He granted me a $40 Amazon gift certificate which I happily accepted.  Maybe the Fairy Hobmother will visit you next and who knows what surprise he may have in store for you?  Thank you Ian for visiting and thank you for the gift...it obviously came at a great time of year since I just turned a big ole 29.  Ok, ok. so maybe I was wishing he had waved his magic wand and made me younger...but I guess I am still 48.  However I am now happily looking for something to apply that Amazon gift certificate towards!
Why don't you join me in all the birthday celebrations over the last month and enjoy one of these cupcakes?  Don't you want to just sink your teeth into that wonderful frosting and cake like Matt did?  
Chocolate Cupcakes with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting
the cupcake recipe is my Nanny's Mayonnaise cupcakes that have become my signature cupcake!  I just mixed it up with flavor and added almond instead of vanilla extract this time.


Printable Recipe

Ingredients:
3 cups flour

6 heaping tablespoons Hershey's Cocoa Powder
3 teaspoons baking soda
¾ teaspoon salt
1-½ cups sugar
1-½ cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 -½ cups water

For the frosting:
4 oz ⅓ less fat cream cheese, softened
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
3-½ to 4 cups confectioners sugar (use what you need to make frosting the consistency you want it to be)
1 teaspoon almond extract

Directions:
Position a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 350°F. Line two standard 12-cup muffin tins with paper cupcake liners.

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In another bowl, combine ½ cup water, mayonnaise,and vanilla .  On medium speed with an electric mixer beat in half of the flour mixture just until combined.  Alternate between the remaining flour mixture and  1 cup water until all ingredients are mixed.

Divide batter among cupcake liners filling about ⅔ full.  Bake 18-22 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean when inserted in center of cupcake.  Cool completely on wire rack.

While cupcakes are cooling you can make the frosting.  With electric mixer on medium speed, mix butter, almond extract, and cream cheese until creamy and incorporated.  Gradually add sugar, 1 cup at a time and blend on low speed.  Frost cooled cupcakes.  Refrigerate any leftovers.

Pretzel Rolls for Sandwiches, Sliders, and Game Day

October 12, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 12 Comments

A stack of golden brown homemade pretzel rolls topped with coarse sea salt, resting on a blue and white patterned kitchen towel.

These Pretzel Rolls bake up with a golden crust and soft, tender center that makes them easy to love. They're great for game day spreads but just as welcome on the table any time of year.

A stack of golden brown homemade pretzel rolls topped with coarse sea salt, resting on a blue and white patterned kitchen towel.

I've made these rolls for everything from casual get-togethers to weeknight dinners, and they never last long. If youe njoy baking yeast breads like my homemade hamburger buns, this recipe will feel comfortable and rewarding.

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Why You'll Love this Pretzel Rolls Recipe

Soft inside: the milk-based dough gives these rolls a tender crumb that stays soft even after cooling.

Classic crust: a quick baking soda poach gives the rolls that familiar pretzel flavor and chewy exterior.

Everyday use: these rolls work for sandwiches, sliders, soups, and game day trays.

Key Ingredients for Soft Pretzel Rolls

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

  • Milk: adds richness and helps keep the rolls soft inside.
  • Active dry yeast: creates a light, well-risen roll with good structure.
  • All-purpose flour: keeps the crumb tender and easy to work with.
  • Butter: brings flavor and softness to the dough.
  • Baking soda: used in the poaching step to create the classic pretzel finish.

Variations on Pretzel Rolls for Any Occasion

  • Cheese topped: sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan over the egg wash before baking.
  • Everything style: top with everything seasoning for a bold, savory finish.
  • Slider size: divide the dough into smaller portions for party-friendly slider rolls.

Tips for Great Pretzel Rolls

  • Watch the dough: the dough should feel smooth and silky, not sticky, before rising.
  • Short poach: stick to 30 seconds per side to avoid a bitter taste.
  • Full egg wash: coat all sides for even color and a bakery-style look.

How to Store and Reheat

Store cooled pretzel rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To freeze, place completely cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to refresh the crust.

Serve Suggestions for Pretzel Rolls

These pretzel rolls are great served with chili, soups, or turned into sliders for game day. Try them with my Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, Cheeseburger Soup, or Italian Sausage and Peppers.

More Recipes You'll Love

If you enjoy baking bread at home, you might like my Easy English Muffin Bread, Quick Dinner Rolls, Sweet Dinner Rolls and Brown Bread Baguettes.

If you give this 4-bean salad a try, I'd love to hear how it turned out! Please leave a comment and ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below to let me know if you kept the heat mild or went all in with the jalapenos. Don't forget to tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your beautiful salad bowls!

📖 Recipe

A stack of golden brown homemade pretzel rolls topped with coarse sea salt, resting on a blue and white patterned kitchen towel.

Pretzel Rolls

Shelby Law Ruttan
Pretzel rolls are a versatile yeast bread with a soft interior and classic pretzel-style crust. They're easy to shape, simple to finish, and fit right into everyday meals or casual gatherings.
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Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Breads, Side Dish
Cuisine American, German Inspired
Servings 18
Calories 155 kcal

Equipment

  • Stand mixer
  • Sheet pans
  • Parchment Paper
  • Large Stockpot
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Pastry brush
  • Sharp knife

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cups milk , warmed to 105-110F
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 4½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted

For Poaching:

  • ¼ cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg , lightly beaten
  • Coarse salt

Instructions
 

For the Rolls:

  • Combine the milk and the yeast in a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer) and let rest 10 minutes until foamy. (If it does not foam then discard and start again with fresh yeast.)
  • Add the sugar, flour, salt, and melted butter and knead (or mix with the dough hook) until thoroughly combined, and the dough comes together and is rather silky - but not sticky - to the touch.
  • Cover with a dish towel and allow to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in bulk. Punch down and turn onto a lightly floured surface. Line two sheet pans with parchment paper or Silpat mats.
  • Cut the dough into 18 even pieces. Shape into smooth dough balls. Space evenly on the prepared sheet pans, leaving at least 1-inch between each roll. Cover with a tea towel or a light film of plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes until doubled. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 425°F.

For Poaching:

  • In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a low boil. Add the baking soda and lower heat to a simmer. Carefully slip the rolls, a few at a time, into the poaching liquid. Poach for 30 seconds then carefully turn the roll over in the liquid. Poach other side for 30 seconds then remove with a slotted spoon to the same prepared sheet pans. Repeat with the remaining rolls, leaving at least 1-inch between rolls for baking.
  • With a pastry brush, glaze each roll completely with the lightly beaten egg making sure to coat all sides completely. Top each roll with a sprinkle of coarse salt. With a sharp, straight knife, cut a slash or "X" in the top of each roll.
  • Bake the rolls for 15 to 20 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through for even browning. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 155kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 19mgSodium: 727mgPotassium: 72mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 126IUVitamin C: 0.001mgCalcium: 32mgIron: 2mgNet Carbohydrates: 24g
Keyword freezer friendly bread, game day rolls, homemade pretzel rolls, pretzel bread rolls, pretzel buns, Pretzel Rolls, pretzel sandwich rolls, soft pretzel rolls
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Chocolate Dipped Caramel Apples

October 10, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 24 Comments

Close up of a caramel apple coated in melted chocolate and topped with colorful fall-themed sprinkles, served on a light plate with a white stick inserted on top.

Chocolate Dipped Caramel Apples are a fall favorite made with creamy homemade caramel and finished with a layer of rich chocolate. The sweet, buttery caramel coating paired with the crisp Honeycrisp apples makes these irresistible for any autumn celebration.

Close up of chocolate dipped caramel apples topped with colorful fall-themed sprinkles, served on a light plate with a white stick inserted on top.

I have always loved caramel apples, and this recipe brings even more of my favorite flavors to the table. They are coated in a butter rum caramel and dipped into melted chocolate with a sprinkle of fall jimmies, turning a classic treat into something truly special.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Sweet layers: smooth caramel and chocolate coating for the ultimate treat.

Homemade flavor: made from scratch with real butter, cream,m and a hint of honey

Perfect for gifting: wrap in cellophane for bake sales, fall parties, or holiday baskets.

Key Ingredients for Chocolate Dipped Caramel Apples

  • Granulated sugar: the base for that goldenm. buttery caramel flavor.
  • Light corn syrup: keeps the caramel smooth and prevents crystalliation.
  • Honey: adds a hint of floral sweetness and shine.
  • Heavy cream: makes the caramel soft, rich, and creamy.
  • Butter rum extract: adds a subtle, warm flavor that complements the chocolate.
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips: the final coating that adds a luscious finish.
  • Apples: Honeycrisp apples are firm and crisp - perfect for holding up under the caramel and chocolate.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Swap vanilla extract for butter rum extract for a classic caramel flavor.
  • Use Dark corn syrup in place of light corn syrup for a deeper color and flavor.
  • Make it dairy free and use coconut cream in place of the heavy cream and a vegan chocolate chip for the semi sweet chocolate..

Caramel Apple Variations

  • White chocolate drizzle: add a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a pretty finish.
  • Toffee crunch: roll in crushed toffee bits before the chocolate hardens.
  • Cookie crumble: press crushed cookies or graham crackers into the chocolate coating.

Tips for the Best Dipped Apples

  • Chill first: cold apples help the caramel set quickly and evenly.
  • Use a candy thermometer: precision is key for smooth, chewy caramel.
  • Dip while warm: caramel and chocolate adhere best when slightly warm and fluid.

How to Store

Store caramel apples in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap each apple in parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Close up of a caramel apple coated in melted chocolate and topped with colorful fall-themed sprinkles, served on a light plate with a white stick inserted on top.

More Fall Desserts You'll Love

If you love caramel and chocolate, try my Chocolate Bundt Cake with Peanut Butter Caramel Drizzle. You may also enjoy my Maple Pumpkin Pie, Pecan Pie Thumbprints, and Easy Apple Dumplings with Salted Caramel Sauce.

When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Close up of a caramel apple coated in melted chocolate and topped with colorful fall-themed sprinkles, served on a light plate with a white stick inserted on top.

Chocolate Dipped Caramel Apples

Shelby Law Ruttan
Chocolate Dipped Cdaramel Apples are coated in buttery homemade caramel, dipped in smooth melted chocolate, and finished with your favorite toppings for the perfect fall treat.
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Servings 10
Calories 744 kcal

Equipment

  • Heavy bottomed sauce pan
  • Pastry brush
  • Wooden spoons
  • Parchment Paper
  • Apple sticks

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup light corn syrup
  • ⅓ cup honey
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons butter cut in pieces and softened
  • ½ tablespoon butter rum extract
  • 12 ounce bag semi sweet chocolate chips
  • candy sprinkles (optional)
  • 10 medium apples washed and stems removed

Instructions
 

  • Bring sugar, corn syrup, and honey to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once it starts to simmer, wash the sides down with a pastry brush and water to remove any sugar crystals. Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Remove cover and wash down sides once more. Insert candy thermometer and cook syrup until it reaches 305 degrees.
  • While syrup is cooking, bring heavy cream to a simmer and keep warm until caramel is to temperature. Once Caramel reaches 305 degrees, add butter and cream….slowly. The syrup will bubble madly when you are stirring in the butter and cream. Once incorporated, return pan to burner and boil until it reaches a temperature of 250 degrees. Remove from heat and transfer to smaller bowl to allow covering apples easier. Let cool 10 minutes. Dip apples and let cool until caramel has hardened. I put them in the refrigerator to help the speed up the process. You may then dip the caramel apples in different varieties of chocolate and toppings.

Nutrition

Calories: 744kcalCarbohydrates: 113gProtein: 4gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 21gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 178mgPotassium: 441mgFiber: 7gSugar: 102gVitamin A: 920IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 69mgIron: 2mgNet Carbohydrates: 106g
Keyword Chocolate Coated Caramel Apples
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Twice Baked Potatoes

October 8, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 12 Comments

Earlier this week I had Grumpy tell me things he would like to eat.  Making a menu for during the week can be very challenging because a lot of the time he doesn't get home until late.  He mentioned twice baked potatoes and my response was "on a week night?!"  He obviously doesn't realize how long it takes to make them.

I decided that on Saturday we would have the steak I bought at The Meat House over in Stuyvesant Plaza.  The weather was beautiful for an October day and Grumpy decided to grill the steak.  I got the potatoes going in the oven and about an hour later, as I was assembling them Grumpy was cooking the steak to perfection.  The steak by the way was absolutely melt in your mouth delicious.  We will definitely be going back there.  I have a coupon for a free sample of their steak tips that I intend to use soon! (another good reason to subscribe to the Times Union as that is how I obtained the coupon!)

While I was getting the potato filling prepped, Grumpy came out into the kitchen and said "what ya doing buzzard".  I told him I was making twice baked potatoes.  His response?  "Well its about time you listened to me".  I don't know who he thinks he is, but he sure isn't my boss.  😉 So of course I went back at him and said, "I didn't make these for you.  I made these for me and you will be lucky if you get even one!"  Of course that entailed him cornering me in the kitchen, grabbing my wrists, and saying "I will too get one Buzzy!"  Of course I told him "Not unless you let go of me and let me finish making them!"  He seems to like to play this game where he thinks hes the boss.  On second thought, I should have bargained for a good old smooch in exchange.  ha ha ha.

While I was prepping the bacon for the potatoes, I received a text from my neighbor - see below:

What you can't see is after she said it was good, she said "you can never move."  I may have gave her some yummy twice baked potato tonight, but she does a lot for us and I just love her!  Jill deserves anything she wants.  Do you hear that Brian?  😉  She has a heart of gold.

After I gave Jill her potato, I went back in the house and did the finishing touches on dinner.  I'd say Grumpy did eat like a King tonight.  I guess one night out of 7 isn't too bad!  Tomorrow's my turn though.  🙂  Maybe I'll feed us tofu.

Twice Baked Potatoes
Printable Recipe


3 large russet potatoes, washed
½ cup sour cream
1 green onion, chopped, reserving green tops for garnish
salt and pepper to taste
¼ pound cooked, crumbled bacon, divided in half
1 cup Colby Cheese, shredded
1 cup Italian 3 cheese, pre-shredded (this comes from Kraft)

After scrubbing potatoes, pierce each one with a sharp knife 3 or 4 times.  This will allow the steam to escape while the potato bakes and it won't explode in your oven!  Bake at 375 for 40 minutes or until a sharp knife slides easily into the potato.  Remove from oven and let cool slightly.  Reduce oven heat to 350.

Cook bacon, drain, and crumble.  Slice potatoes in half and scoop out potato, leaving a slight bit of potato in the shell to help it hold its shape.  Mash potatoes with sour cream, salt, and pepper.  Mix in ½ crumbled bacon, green onion, and Italian cheese mix.

Fill potato skin shells with filling, top with Colby Cheese and bacon then bake for 20 minutes.  Remove from oven, arrange on serving platter and garnish with green onion tops.  Enjoy!

Spicy Garlic Noodles

October 6, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 11 Comments

Garlic Noodles have to be our very favorite Asian Pasta dish of all time.  These noodles are so addiction.  I needed a side to go with our honey walnut shrimp we had over the weekend so I decided this would be it.  I also decided that I needed to add some heat to the dish this time.  There is nothing I love more than a dish that has some sweet heat.  🙂

Grumpy loves these noodles too.  So much so that whenever I am going to make a starchy side dish and think  it may be rice, he will pout.  Yes, Grumpy pouts.  He pouts a lot.  That is how he gets his way with me.  I've always been a sucker for someone who wants something bad enough to pout for it.  Sometimes they will get what they want (like food) sometimes they don't (like new hunting rifles).  I think Grumpy's the biggest kid in my life.  Justin & Christopher never really ask me for anything anymore, but believe me, when they were little, I always had the hardest time telling them no.  If they were to ask me for anything today though I would still have a hard time not giving it to them.  I'm pretty sure this is an inherited trait from my Grandpa Whitton (Poppy).  He was a sucker for his grandchildren.  If any of us wanted anything, he was right there ready to make sure we had it.  I definitely come by it naturally.  Needless to say, Grumpy gets his noodles without much of a fight although I do like to give him a hard time about it.  🙂

 

I am submitting this post to Presto Pasta Nights.  Ruth, the genius behind PPN and blogger at Once Upon A Feast  is hosting the event.  Hop on over there tomorrow to see the round up of pasta dishes people made this last week.  Next weeks host will be Kirsten of Kirsten's Kitchen to Yours.  If your making a pasta dish this coming week and want to join in, make sure to submit your entries to her by Thursday, October 13, 2011.  You can read the guidelines for submission over at the PPN site.  Hope to see you there, after all, who doesn't love pasta?

Garlic Noodles with a Kick
Printable Recipe
½ box dried pasta (about 7 ounces) or use fresh pasta (our favorite), cooked until al dente. 
3 scallions, chopped, setting aside the green part of the scallion for garnish
1 teaspoon dried chili pepper flakes (adjust to your heat tolerance)
2 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
½ teaspoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
3 tablespoons butter

Melt butter over medium heat until bubbly.  Add dried chili peppers and cook for about 1 minute (be careful not to burn the butter).  Add the minced garlic and scallions and saute about 1 minute, until softened.  Mix together brown sugar, fish sauce, and oyster sauce.  Add to butter mixture and cook for 1 minute or until sugar is dissolved (this doesn't take long).  Add pasta to the sauce and toss to mix.  For some color, toss in the green part of the chopped scallions.  Serve & enjoy!

Some other noodle dishes we enjoy:
Sesame Peanut Noodles - this is a yummy weight watchers recipe!
Longevity Noodles - a cooking light recipe
Garlic Scallion Noodles - a slightly different version
Beef Lo Mein - another weight watcher recipe
Light and Hearty Tuna Noodle Casserole - Grumpy loves tuna noodle!

Caramel Frosted Pumpkin Pie Coffeecake

September 30, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 18 Comments

Happy Birthday to.........
ME
Today I am another year closer to being ½ a century old.  
I'm my mother's age.  Not mine!  
It doesn't seem like I should be already. 
Not once has turning another year older bothered me.
It has amazed me though.  Amazed me that I am actually that old.
Amazed me that I don't feel any different than I did as a young girl.
 
 
This year is my first year away from my family for my birthday.  That is the part that is the hardest for me.  I guess Grumpy has a lot of work on his hands today to make up for all the love and attention I would have gotten at home.  ;o)
 
 
While your here, enjoy a piece of this yummy coffeecake with me, I made two of these and took them to work this week and they were devoured in no time.  I even heard one co-worker say that she "didn't even breath in between bites"!  Make this if your feeling like pumpkin.  If you've had enough of it already, save it for another day.  It will be worth it, I promise!
 
 

📖 Recipe

Caramel Frosted Pumpkin Pie Coffeecake

Shelby Law Ruttan
A delicious pumpkin cake with a caramel frosting. Delicious as a dessert or brunch cake.
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Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
Total Time 55 minutes mins
Course Breakfast & Brunch
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 515 kcal

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

FOR THE CAKE

  • ½ cup sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ⅛ teaspoon cloves
  • ½ cup candied walnuts

FOR THE FROSTING

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup white sugar
  • 1 stick unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon Karo syrup

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 325.  In large mixing bowl mix butter and sugar until creamy.  Mix in pumpkin, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla.  Set aside.
  • Place dry ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir to combine.  Add flour mixture to wet mixture gradually and mix on medium speed until thoroughly combined.
  • Divide batter between 2-9" round baking pans that have been coated with cooking spray.  Sprinkle each cake with ¼ cup of candied walnuts.  Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cake is set and a toothpick comes out dry when inserted in the center of the cake.
  • When the cake is done, make the frosting.  Place combined sugar and butter in a heavy saucepan.  
  • Cook until sugar and butter is melted, stirring only occasionally until mixture comes to a boil.  Boil 2-3 minutes then add milk, vanilla, salt, and Karo syrup and boil another 1-2 minutes.  
  • The mixture will begin to thicken.  Remove from heat and stir until no longer bubbly, the frosting will be shiny and easy to pour.  
  • Drizzle evenly over both coffeecakes.  Cool, cut, and enjoy!  

Nutrition

Calories: 515kcalCarbohydrates: 76gProtein: 6gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 82mgSodium: 571mgFiber: 2gSugar: 50g
Keyword Pumpkin Pie Coffeecake
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Southwestern Quinoa Salad with Citrus Dressing

September 21, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 23 Comments

Featured image for Southwest Quinoa Salad.

Southwestern Quinoa Salad is one of my favorite salad recipes packed with black beans and mango in a citrusy vinaigrette. The colors in this quinoa salad recipe are vibrant and it is packed with plant protein and fiber in each serving. This vegan salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks

The lime dressing that goes over this southwest quinoa salad is tangy, a little sweet, with a touch of heat and it is a delicious combination with the cilantro in the salad.

Overhead image of Southwest quinoa salad.
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❤️ Why you'll love it

✔️ This cold quinoa salad makes the perfect portable lunch salad.

✔️ Each serving of this southwestern quinoa salad recipe has 8 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber!

✔️ Quinoa salad recipes are perfect for those looking to add a healthy nutrition packed side dish to the menu.

A clear glass bowl with cooked quinoa

🥘 Ingredients

Uncooked quinoa, there are several types of quinoa out there, but I prefer to use the white quinoa for this recipe so all the colors remain vibrant.

Canned black beans, added for protein and fiber

Red bell pepper, adds color and freshess

Mango, used in place of corn in the original salad.

Onion, adds flavor

Fresh cilantro, adds flavor, parsley can be used by those who don't like cilantro.

Lime, choose fresh limes that have give when squeezed to be sure to get one with a good amount of juice.

Grapeseed oil, an excellent oil to use in making the dressing. Mild in flavor and provides plenty of vitamin E.

Cayenne pepper, an optional ingredient adds a touch of heat to the recipe.

Sugar and salt to balance out the flavors.

Fresh mango that has been scored.

🔪 Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, bring 1 cup of water to boil.  Add quinoa and bring to a boil, immediately reduce heat and simmer for 12 minutes, or until all water is absorbed.  Remove the quinoa from the heat heat and place in large bowl to cool.
  2. Once the quinoa has cooled completely, add the black beans, red bell pepper, mano, onion, and cilantro. Toss to combine.
  3. In a small bowl, using a hand whisk or a fork, whisk together the grapeseed oil, cayenne pepper (if using), sugar, salt, and lime juice.  Pour over quinoa mixture and toss to coat.

🥄 Equipment

Large saucepan
Cutting board
Chef knife
Strainer
Mixing bowls

A bowl of southwestern quinoa salad.

🥫Storage

Store any leftover quinoa salad in an airtight container in the fridge up to 5 days.

📖 Variations

  • Remove the lime zest before juicing the lime and toss zest into the salad mixture.
  • Substitute sugar free sweetener for the sugar, or leave it out entirely.
  • Use ½ teaspoon chili powder or chili lime seasoning in place of the cayenne pepper.
  • Use halved cherry tomatoes in place of the red bell pepper.
  • Red quinoa can be used in place of white quinoa.
  • Make it a true southwest salad and add 1 cup of corn in place of the mango.
  • Red onion can be used in place of white onion.

💭 Tips

  • If you would like to add more flavor to the quinoa, substitute vegetable broth for the water when cooking.
  • Add more protein to the salad and make it a main dish salad by adding 2 cups chopped cooked chicken or shrimp.
Up close image of a colorful salad.

📚 Related Recipes

Try this delicious Sweet Chili Lime Tofu for a vegetarian meal with sweet heat.

Cookies are good for breakfast when they are these Apricot Cashew Quinoa Breakfast Cookies!

These Southwestern Cheddar Steak Fries go great your favorite grilled protein.

🍽 Serve with…

Serve this healthy southwest quinoa salad alongside your favorite grilled steak, chicken, or seafood.

🏫 The last word

Quinoa is considered a "superfood" due to its nutritional qualities. One cup of cooked quinoa provides 8 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, and 5 grams of fiber. It is a plant proteins that is a complete protein and a healthy way to boost the protein intake for those looking to do so.

A true southwest salad will have corn in it, however, I wanted to add a little more sweetness and changed the original recipe to include mango in place of corn.


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When you make this Southwestern Quinoa Salad recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

A bowl of southwestern quinoa salad.

Southwestern Quinoa Salad

Shelby Law Ruttan
A salad that is easily portable and perfect for lunches or as a side dish to your main dish, Southwestern Quinoa Salad is packed with flavor, protein, and fiber.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 12 minutes mins
Total Time 22 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 214 kcal

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • cutting board
  • chef knife
  • Extra fine mesh strainer
  • mixing bowls

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Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup water
  • ½ cup white quinoa
  • 1 cup canned black beans
  • ½ red bell pepper , diced small
  • 1 mango , cut in small pieces
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
  • ½ cup cilantro chopped
  • 1 large lime juiced
  • 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper ,do this to your heat tolerance
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Bring 1 cup of water to boil. Add quinoa and once it has come back to a boil, reduce heat and simmer about 12 minutes or until all water is absorbed. Remove from heat and place in mixing bowl to cool.
  • Dice peppers, onions and mango into small pieces. Drain and rinse black beans. Measure 1 cup. Add vegetables and beans along with chopped cilantro to cooled quinoa.
  • Whisk together grapeseed oil, cayenne pepper, sugar (or splenda), salt, and juice of one lime.
  • Pour over quinoa mixture and toss to coat.

Nutrition

Calories: 214kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 8gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 152mgPotassium: 437mgFiber: 7gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 1487IUVitamin C: 44mgCalcium: 39mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Southwestern Quinoa Salad
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Puff Pancake with Caramelized Cinnamon Apples (SRC)

September 12, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 29 Comments

I am normally not a procrastinator.  Especially when it comes to my work life.  When I am on the job and someone gives me something they want me to do I normally get it on my list and do it ASAP.  When I am home it is easier to procrastinate more when it comes to doing something for me.

Today is reveal day for Group A (Amanda's group) of the Secret Recipe Club.  I was assigned Mimi's Blog titled Cookin' Mimi.  Mimi likes to cook simply and her blog purpose is to show you that you can cook that way without some of those hard to obtain ingredients!


I had decided that since she had a breakfast label, I was going to find something that I could make for breakfast one weekend.  The puff pancake sounded like a great idea because we love to have pancakes on the weekend.  The weeks went by and we just weren't home often enough or at the same time to have this as soon as I hoped.  Then, the last weekend before reveal day came and I was yet again alone!  I decided to go ahead and reduce the recipe for just one and make it just for me as a special brunch treat.  I love the concept and want to try it again using the full recipe and bigger baking dish!

I made some apples that had been coated in a brown sugar caramel type sauce.  With fall here I am thinking about foods like apples and pumpkins and squashes (winter).  The pancake was really good!  I was worried after it was in the oven for a bit and it wasn't seeming to "puff".  I had put it in a deep ceramic bowl and thought maybe I had made a mistake because I adjusted the ingredients a little differently than Mimi had as far as portion amounts.  But after my 30 minutes it had puffed up as tall as the bowl I had put it in.  I was happy.  🙂

Caramelized Apple Cinnamon Puff Pancake
adapted from Cookin' MimiPrintable Recipe
½ cup vanilla almond milk

1 egg
½ cup flour
dash of salt
1 splash vanilla extract
½ tablespoon melted butter
1 apple, sliced -one with red skin is nice - if you leave it on you have some red color 🙂
½ tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar

dash or 2 of cinnamon
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Whisk all ingredients together.  Set aside.
Heat sugar and butter in a heavy skilled until melted and smooth.  Do this over a medium heat as if you do it over a high heat it will crystallize (I know, believe me).  Once the butter and sugar has become sauce like, place the apples in the sauce and toss to coat and cook for about 30 seconds.
Pour pancake batter into ceramic bowl sprayed with cooking spray.  Top with a few apples, leaving a few set aside to add to the pancake when ready to serve.
Bake for 30 minutes.  Remove from pan and serve with remaining apple slices.  Serve with a side of maple syrup if desired for added sweetness.
 

Zucchini Cheddar Biscuits

September 8, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 17 Comments

Two golden brown Low Carb Zucchini Biscuits on a blue plate.

These Zucchini Cheddar Biscuits are tender, cheesy, and full of savory flavor with a touch of smoky spice. They're the perfect low-carb biscuit to pair with any meal or enjoy on their own as a satisfying snack.

Overhead image of a baked chipotle cheddar zucchini biscuit on parchment paper lined baking sheet.

This recipe was inspired by my love for Homemade Fluffy Biscuits, one of the most comforting recipes from my kitchen. I wanted to recreate that soft, satisfying biscuit texture while keeping things keto-friendly-and these zucchini cheddar biscuits were the answer.

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Why You'll Love Zucchini Cheddar Biscuits

  • They are warm, cheesy, and full of bold flavor
  • Perfect for low-carb and keto lifestyles
  • An easy homemade biscuit made with wholesome ingredients

Key Ingredients

Almond Flour - A gluten-free, low-carb flour that creates a soft, biscuit-like crumb.
Zucchini - Adds moisture and structure; be sure to squeeze out excess water.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese - I use Seriously Sharp for bold, cheesy flavor in every bite.
Parmesan Romano Cheese - Brings depth and saltiness that balances the zucchini.
Eggs - Essential to bind the ingredients and create a light texture.
Whole Milk Yogurt - Adds moisture and tang to the dough.
Butter - Adds richness and makes a great base for the garlic butter topping.
Chipotle Powder - A smoky chili powder that delivers subtle heat and extra flavor.

How To Make Cheddar Zucchini Biscuits

Dry ingredients and shredded zucchini in mixing bowl.

Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients. Add shredded zucchini and toss to coat.

Adding the wet ingredients to the shredded zucchini and flour mixture.

Wet ingredients

Make a well in the center of flour mixture and add eggs, melted butter, and whole milk yogurt. Stir to combine.

Cheddar Zucchini Biscuit Dough in a mixing bowl with a parchment paper lined baking sheet and measuring scoop.

Scoop and bake

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop ¼ cup size scoops of dough onto baking sheet. Bake as instructed.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Replace chipotle powder with smoked paprika for less heat but similar flavor.
  • Use sour cream in place of yogurt for more tang and thickness.
  • Try Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for added spice and a creamier taste.

Recipe Variations

  • Add bacon: Stir in ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky, salty crunch.
  • Add herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for a fresh garden flavor.
  • Make it spicier by doubling the chipotle or adding chopped jalapeños.
baked low carb biscuit with zucchini and cheese on parchment paper being brushed with butter garlic topping

Tips for Success

  • Brush warm biscuits with garlic butter just before serving.
  • Don't skip squeezing the zucchini-it prevents soggy biscuits.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and get crisp edges.

Storage

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. To reheat, place in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for about 30 seconds.

Serving Suggestions

These biscuits go great with comfort dishes like Air Fryer Roast Beef, Sweet Chili Braised Beef Short Ribs, or as a side to Broccoli Dal. You can also serve them with Egg Muffin Cups for a savory breakfast option.

Related Recipes

  • Featured image for egg salad.
    Egg Salad Recipe with Green Olives - Zero Carbs
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    Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Muffins
  • Featured image for Garlic Mashed Cauliflower.
    Garlic Mashed Cauliflower with Browned Butter
  • Featured Image for Keto Pork Fried Rice.
    Keto Pork Fried Rice

When you make this Zucchini Cheddar Biscuit recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Close-up of two golden brown zucchini cheddar biscuits stacked on a light blue plate, showing crispy edges, melted cheese, and flecks of fresh herbs.

Zucchini Cheddar Biscuits.

Shelby Law Ruttan
These Zucchini Cheddar Biscuits are low carb, savory, and cheesy with a soft interior and golden top-great for breakfast or dinner sides.
4.67 from 6 votes
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Breads
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 296 kcal

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Ingredients
  

for the biscuits:

  • 1¾ cup almond flour
  • 2 tablespoons coconut flour
  • 1 tablespoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese grated
  • ½-1 teaspoon chipotle powder optional
  • 1 cup shredded zucchini
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • ⅓ cup whole milk yogurt

for the butter topping

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, salt, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix to combine.
  • Add shredded zucchini and grated sharp cheddar cheese. Toss with flour mixture to coat.
  • Make a well in the center of flour mixture and add eggs, melted butter, and whole milk yogurt. Stir to combine.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop ¼ cup size scoops of dough onto baking sheet.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top and center of dough is no longer wet.
  • Cool on a baking rack at least 10 minutes before serving.
  • Store in refrigerator up to 7 days.

Notes

Note: The original recipe on this page was for a Chipotle Zucchini Cheddar Biscuit. However, I removed the chipotle powder from the biscuit when retesting and making this recipe low carb. If you wish to keep chipotle powder in the recipe, feel free to add ½ - 1 teaspoon to the dry mix.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 296kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 10gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 82mgSodium: 479mgPotassium: 87mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 497IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 226mgIron: 1mgNet Carbohydrates: 5g
Keyword Low Carb Biscuits, Low Carb Biscuits with Zucchini and Cheese, zucchini cheddar biscuits
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Blueberry Lime Coffeecake Surprise

August 28, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 9 Comments

Blueberries.  Lime.  Almond.  I saw Dawn's Blueberry Pie and she had two of those elements that I desire.  I'm still going to make a blueberry pie and make it soon.  Maybe today if we don't lose power.  After all, Grumpy is finishing up the last 2 pieces as I type this and I need more blueberry fix.

I was craving some good blueberry, lime, almond coffeecake.  After all, it was the weekend and we like to have our cake in some form,whether its coffeecake or pancakes!  After thinking about it for at least 2 hours and how I could make it, this is what I came up with.  It was delicious!  Grumpy had two big pieces in the morning and two more throughout the rest of the day (finishing up 2 more this morning....how many do you think I had!  Come on, you only get 9 good pieces out of a 9x9 pan.  lol)  If that's not a good endorsement, I don't know what is!

I decided that I wanted lime and almond flavor incorporated somehow.  So, I made soured milk by adding the juice of one lime to ½ cup of almond milk.  I also decided to top the cake with a lime infused sugar along with some slivered almonds.  The surprise part?  Well, thanks to Dawn, I had some Solo Almond Filling.  I knew I wouldn't use the whole can in my pie, so I decided to spread a layer of almond pie filling between cake layers.  Doesn't that sound delicious?  It was so moist and yummy.  My only complaint is the lime wasn't present enough for me.  I think next time it needs lime zest in the batter too.

Blueberry Lime Coffeecake Surprise


Printable Recipe
1 stick unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
juice of 1 lime
½ cup almond milk
1 egg
1 teaspoon almond extract
⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon almond filling (I use Solo)
1-¾ cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups frozen blueberries
¼ cup flour
slivered almonds
zest of one lime
2 tablespoons sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Mix the zest of lime and 2 tablespoons of sugar in a small bowl and rub together with your fingers to infuse the lime into the sugar.  Set aside.

Place lime juice and almond milk in measuring cup and set aside.  With hand mixer in medium bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy.  Add egg and almond extract and mix until egg is thoroughly incorporated.  In another bowl, blend 1-¾ cup flour, baking powder, and salt.  Prep blueberries by tossing with ¼ cup flour.  Set aside.

Add flour and milk to butter mixture, starting with flour and ending with flour, mixing well after each addition.  Drop in a good heaping tablespoon of almond filling and mix into batter.  Fold in blueberries.  Spray 9x9 glass baking dish with cooking spray.  Spread ½ of batter mix in bottom of pan.  Spread remaining almond filling over bottom layer, top with remaining batter.  Note:  The batter does not spread easily.  Be patient and use the back of a large spoon.  I will work, I promise, just look at my cake.  lol

Sprinkle top of cake with infused sugar and slivered almonds.  Bake in 350 oven for 45 minutes.  It will take this long (if not longer) since it is a thick cake.  Let cool at least 15 minutes, then dig in!

Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef

August 20, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 28 Comments

My whole family loves Mexican food and this Mexican casserole with ground beef has all the flavors in one easy casserole dish.

It is so easy to make with a few pantry items and your favorite taco toppings, making this an easy weeknight meal.

Overhead view of a Mexican Casserole made with ground beef and topped with fresh veggies.
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❤️ Why you'll love it

✔️ It is like a big taco in casserole form! Just scoop with chips or use it as a filling for flour tortillas.

✔️ It can be serve deconstructed as is with tortilla chips or used as a filling for crunchy taco shells or flour tortillas.

✔️ It is the easiest Mexican beef casserole dish to make and it is packed with tons of flavor, 28 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fiber per serving!

Seasoned ground beef cooking in a cast iron skillet.

🥘 Ingredients

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Lean ground beef

Taco seasoning, I like to make my own homemade taco seasoning, it is simple with just a few ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Refried beans, I like to buy the can of refried beans for convenience, but if you make your own, that works well also.

Salsa, spicy is the way I like to go, but choose your favorite heat factor.

Mexican cheese blend

Corn chips

Black olives

Diced tomatoes

Fresh cilantro

dicing tomatoes

🔪 Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef beef for 7 minutes, or until browned.
  3. Drain any fat from the beef and add the taco seasoning and water according to packet instructions. Set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm refried beans for 5 minutes, or until warmed thru. Stir the salsa and 1 cup of the cheese into the refried beans.
  5. Place the corn chips in the bottom of the baking dish that has been coated with nonstick cooking spray. On top of the corn chips, add the layers as follows: bean mixture, ground beef mixture, and top with the remaining shredded cheese and black olives.
  6. Bake the casserole for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and casserole is heated through.
  7. Remove from oven, top with chopped tomatoes and cilantro. Serve with extra corn chips if desired.. 
Cut avocados on a wooden board.

🥄 Equipment

8 x 8 glass baking dish

Large skillet

Medium saucepan

Wooden spoon

Rubber scraper

🥫Storage

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days. I do not recommend freezing this recipe once it has been completely assembled.

Upclose shot of finished cassderole.

📖 Variations

  • Black beans or kidney beans make a great substitute for refried beans, just smash them lightly and add the salsa and cheese.
  • Use lean ground turkey or ground chicken in place of the ground beef.
  • Use a variation of your favorite fresh vegetables as topping. Chopped red bell pepper, sliced jalapenos, chopped avocado, and green onion are a few I like to add.

💭 Tips

  • Use crispy tostadas or corn tortillas in place of the tortilla chips and assemble the casserole in lasagna like layers.
  • Wrap leftovers in a tortilla, roll into a burrito, and sear in a hot skillet.

📚 Related Recipes

4 Bean Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing

Lentil Loaf With Sweet and Sour Topping

Green Chicken Enchiladas - low carb recipe

Shrimp Enchiladas Recipe

American Chop Suey

🍽 Serve with...

Serve this Mexican casserole with ground beef with flour tortillas, tortilla chips along with a scoop of sour cream and homemade guacamole on the side.

📖 Recipe

Mexican Casserole

Shelby Law Ruttan
A layered ground beef casserole with all of your favorite Mexican flavors!
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Tex-Mex
Servings 8
Calories 321 kcal

Equipment

  • 8 x 8 glass baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Rubber scraper

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
  • 15 ounces refried beans
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 4 ounces tortilla chips
  • ½ cup sliced black olives
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup cilantro , chopped
  • sour cream , optional
  • 1 avocado , optional (chopped)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef beef for 7 minutes, or until browned.
  • Drain any fat from the beef and add the taco seasoning and water according to packet instructions. Set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm refried beans for 5 minutes, or until warmed thru. Stir the salsa and 1 cup of the cheese into the refried beans.
  • Place the corn chips in the bottom of the baking dish that has been coated with nonstick cooking spray. On top of the corn chips, add the layers as follows: bean mixture, ground beef mixture, and top with the remaining shredded cheese and black olives.
  • Bake the casserole for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and casserole is heated through.Remove from oven, top with chopped tomatoes and cilantro. Serve with extra corn chips if desired.

Notes

If you have leftovers you could either reheat and eat, or fill a tortilla and warm for lunches, wrap burrito like and heat in the oven of sear in a hot skillet "Taco Bell" style.

Nutrition

Calories: 321kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 23gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 63mgSodium: 972mgPotassium: 365mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 660IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 256mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Mexican Casserole, Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Scallop Carbonara with Bacon and Asparagus

August 16, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 20 Comments

A close-up bowl of creamy scallop carbonara pasta topped with crispy bacon bits, fresh green asparagus pieces, and grated parmesan cheese.

Scallop Carbonara is a rich pasta dish built around tender bay scallops, crisp bacon, and a silky carbonara sauce that clings every strand of pasta. The asparagus adds just enough freshness to balance the richness, making it a great option for a special dinner.

A close-up bowl of creamy scallop carbonara pasta topped with crispy bacon bits, fresh green asparagus pieces, and grated parmesan cheese.

I love carbonara-style dishes for ow simple they are once you understand the technique, and this version is one I come back to when asparagus is in season. If you enjoy creamy seafood pastas that don't rely on heavy sauces, this one fits right in.

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Why You'll Love Scallop Carbonara

Silky sauce: the eggs, cream, and Parmesan come together into a smooth sauce that clings to the pasta without feeling heavy.

Balanced flavor: salty bacon, sweet scallops, and tender asparagus create contrast in every bite.

Restaurant feel: this is the kind of recipe you'd expect to order out, but it comes together easily at home.

Key Ingredients for Scallop Carbonara

See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.

  • Bay scallops: mild, sweet, and quick-cooking, perfect for creamy pasta dishes.
  • Bacon: adds salt and richness that anchors the sauce.
  • Eggs: form the base of the carbonara-style sauce.
  • Heavy cream: adds body and smooth texture without overpowering.
  • Asparagus: brings freshness and a light bite.
  • Bucatini pasta: thick and sturdy, ideal for holding onto the sauce.
  • Parmesan cheese: adds savory depth and finishes the dish.
Extreme close up of a bowl of bucatini pasta, baby scallops, crispy bacon, asparagus pieces, and fresh grated parmesan cheese in a white bowl.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Pancetta can be used in place of bacon for a slightly milder flavor.
  • Spaghetti works if bucatini isn't available.
  • Half and half can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Variations on Scallop Carbonara

  • Shrimp swap: use small shrimp instead of scallops for a familiar seafood carbonara option.
  • Spring peas: replace asparagus with peas for a softer texture and subtle sweetness.
  • Extra cheesy: add more Parmesan at the end for a richer finish.

Tips for the Best Carbonara with Asparagus

  • Temper the eggs slowly by whisking in the hot cream a little at a time to prevent scrambling.
  • Keep the heat at medium when adding the sauce to the pasta so it thickens gently.
  • Cook the scallops just until opaque so they stay tender and sweet.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

A close-up bowl of creamy scallop carbonara pasta topped with crispy bacon bits, fresh green asparagus pieces, and grated parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions for Scallop Carbonara

Serve this scallop carbonara with a simple green salad and warm homemade bread or quick dinner rolls to round out the meal.

More Recipes You'll Love

If you're a fan of seafood and cream sauces, you have to try my Velvet Shrimp, Shrimp Alfredo Linguine with Saffron, or Seafood Lasagna recipe. If you're like me and crave a little bit of heat, my Creamy Creole Shrimp is a total game-changer!


I hope your family loves this dish as much as mine does. If you give it a try, please come back and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and comment. I love chatting with you all! Don't forget to tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch so I can check out your delicious results!

📖 Recipe

A close-up bowl of creamy scallop carbonara pasta topped with crispy bacon bits, fresh green asparagus pieces, and grated parmesan cheese.

Scallop Carbonara with Asparagus

Shelby Law Ruttan
This delicious Scallop Carbonara brings together tender seafood, crisp bacon, and smooth egg-based sauce for a comforting pasta dish that feels both simple and special. It's well suited for a quiet dinner at home or a to celebrate a special occasion.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Dinner Recipes, Main Dish
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 6
Calories 614 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pasta pot
  • Large skillet
  • mixing bowls
  • Hand whisk
  • Slotted Spoon

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon cut into pieces
  • 1 pound bay scallops
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 clove garlic finely chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound asparagus chopped
  • 1 pound bucatini
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese , grated (divided)

Instructions
 

  • Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until al dente according to package directions. Drain well and return pasta to pot.
  • Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, stirring often. Using slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to paper towels and drain. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings from skillet.
  • Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and cook until they just turn opaque. Remove the scallops from the skillet.
  • Add asparagus and saute until tender, stirring occasionally, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a large plate and season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Crack eggs into large bowl and whisk to blend and set aside.
  • Add the cream, garlic, and crushed pepper to bacon drippings in the skillet and bring to boil. Gradually whisk hot cream mixture into eggs. Mix in ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese.
  • Add the cream sauce sauce to the cooked pasta and toss over medium heat until sauce coats pasta (do not boil).
  • Add the cooked bacon and asparagus and toss to heat through. Serve with remaining cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 614kcalCarbohydrates: 63gProtein: 29gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 0.04gCholesterol: 124mgSodium: 625mgPotassium: 577mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1054IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 162mgIron: 3mgNet Carbohydrates: 59g
Keyword bacon scallop carbonara, bucatini carbonara, carbonara with asparagus, creamy scallop carbonara, Scallop Carbonara, scallop carbonara recipe, Scallop Carbonara with Asparagus, seafood carbonara
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Blueberry French Toast Casserole

August 13, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 17 Comments

Blueberry French Toast Casserole Featured Image.

French toast fans will love this Blueberry French Toast Casserole recipe and it's the perfect brunch or breakfast recipe to serve on special occasions. Made with a crusty day old bread baked in a egg custard base sprinkled with fresh juicy blueberries.

This delicious easy french toast bake is the perfect recipe for Christmas morning, Easter, mother's day brunch, and summer time weekend breakfast gatherings.

❤️ Why you'll love it

✔️ It's not too sweet and is made perfect with just a drizzle of maple syrup.

✔️ It gets nice and crusty on the top of the casserole and is custardy on the inside.

✔️ This easy breakfast recipe is made in one dish that can be made the night before and baked the next morning.

Bread cubes for french toast casserole.
Day old bread that has a firm and crusty texture is best for this french toast casserole.

🥘 Ingredients

Stale bread, it can be french bread, challah bread, or italian bread all will work in this recipe.

Cream cheese, this is cut into cubes and scattered over top of the bread in the casserole dish

Heavy cream

Pure maple syrup

Ground cinnamon

Large eggs

Vanilla extract

Fresh blueberries

Coarse sugar crystals (optional)

Blueberry, Blue Cheese, and Pecan Grilled Romaine Salad

🔪 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray casserole dish with cooking spray. Place ½ of bread cubes in bottom of prepared baking dishl. Add 1 cup blueberries to the casserole and evenly distribute the cream cheese cubes over top of the bread..
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, cream, syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon together until well blended. Pour ½ cup liquid over the bread cube mixture.
  3. Spread the remaining bread cubes in the casserole dish and cover with remaining egg mixture.
  4. Bake covered with aluminum foil in oven 30 minutes. Remove cover, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon coarse sugar crystals and bake another 10 minutes uncovered, until the top is golden brown. Serve with extra blueberries and pure maple syrup.

🥄 Equipment

13-inch baking dish

Medium bowl

Hand whisk

Rubber scraper

Wooden spoon

🥫Storage

Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days and in the freezer up to 3 months.

📖 Variations

  • Sprinkle the top of baked casserole with powdered sugar and lemon zest
  • Make this casserole in individual portions using 4 ramekins in place of the large casserole dish
  • Substitute brown sugar for the maple syrup
Blueberry French Toast Casserole Featured Image.

💭 Tips

If making this french toast casserole recipe the night before to bake the next day, remove it from the refrigerator and bring to room temperature (about 20 minutes) before baking.

📚 Related Recipes

This Pumpkin Chocolate Bread Pudding makes a delicious fall treat!

Try these Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast Sliders for your next brunch dish.

Waffled French Toast with Meyer Lemon Maple Syrup

A great recipe for fresh strawberries is this Strawberry Stuffed French Toast.

🍽 Serve with...

Serve this baked french toast recipe with pure maple syrup, your favorite fruits,


Don't forget to check out my Amazon storefront for some of my favorite products!

When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Blueberry French Toast Casserole Featured Image.

Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Shelby Law Ruttan
A breakfast or brunch recipe made with day old bread baked in an egg custard with fresh blueberries and maple syrup as a sweetener.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 370 kcal

Equipment

  • 13-inch baking dish
  • Medium bowl
  • Hand whisk
  • Rubber scraper

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Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cubed Italian bread
  • 2 ounces ⅓ less fat cream cheese , cubed
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sugar crystals

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray individual oven safe bowls with cooking spray.
  • Place ½ cup of bread crumbs in bottom of bowl. Add ¼ cup blueberries to each bowl and divide the cubed cream cheese between the bowls.
  • Whisk the eggs, cream, syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon together until well blended. This should make 1 cup of liquid. Pour ½ cup liquid over each bowl.
  • Bake covered in oven 30 minutes. Remove cover and bake another 10 minutes to brown top. Serve with extra blueberries and pure maple syrup.

Notes

Please note that you can also bake this all in one dish. I opted for the smaller bowls just because I wanted the "visual". :o)

Nutrition

Calories: 370kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 9gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 174mgSodium: 233mgPotassium: 216mgFiber: 2gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 593IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 71mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Blueberry French Toast Casserole
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Red and White Cauliflower Bake

July 31, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 21 Comments

Featured image for Red and White Cauliflower Casserole.

This recipe for Red and White Cauliflower Bake is a vegan casserole made with cauliflower, seasoned tofu, and a tomato sauce topping. This is a veggie recipe that will the whole family will enjoy!

One serving of red and white cauliflower bake garnished with fresh basil leaves.
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❤️ Why you'll love it

Full of flavor: from the seasoned tofu to the white gravy and the fire roasted tomato sauce, this recipe is packed with flavor.

Meatless Mondays: this is a delicious dish to serve on meatless Monday!

Cauliflower recipe: this is another delicious recipe for fans of cauliflower.

Ingredients for tofu layer.
Nutritional yeast gives a cheese like flavor to the tofu and the flavors are brought to life with the lemon juice, herbs, and salt.
Crumbled seasoned tofu in a mixing bowl.
The combination of ingredients turn bland tofu into a delicious layer for this cauliflower casserole.
Ingredients for white sauce
If I'm just making a side dish for my family or a vegetarian dis, I will use regular butter instead of vegan.
Raw chopped cauliflower in a microwave steamer bowl.
The quickest way to prepare the cauliflower for this recipe is to steam it in the microwave for 15 minutes.

🥘 Ingredients

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Fresh cauliflower

Firm tofu: you can buy water packed tofu (be sure to drain) or vacuum sealed tofu (no draining required).

Lemon juice: I prefer to use fresh lemon juice.

Nutritional yeast flakes: this is desiccated yeast made of yellow powdery flakes that have a nutty cheese like flavor and often used in vegan cooking.

Salt, Black pepper, Italian seasoning: these are used to season the tofu with the nutritional yeast and lemon juice.

Vegan butter: Earth Balance is a great brand of vegan butter.

Flour: used to thicken the white sauce

Tahini: this ingredient in particular adds a distinct delicious flavor to the white sauce and I don't recommend substituting anything else for it.

Oat milk: this is my preference for non-dairy milks and I love the Planet Oat brand. Almond milk can be used as well.

Vegetable bouillon concentrate: I love the better than bouillon brand.

Fire roasted tomatoes: this specific type of tomato adds a smoky delicious flavor.

Chopped garlic and herbs sauteing in oil in a skillet.
Saute the garlic and herbs in olive oil to soften the garlic and bring out the aromatics.
Butter and flour bubbling in the saucepan.
Cook the butter and flour together for a few minutes to develop a nuttier flavor.
Thicken white sauce in the sauce pan.
The gravy will thicken quickly, as soon as it has thickened remove it from the stovetop.
Cauliflower mixed with white gravy in a red bowl.
The white gravy adds flavor to the cauliflower and makes it creamy.

🔪 Instructions

  1. Press tofu between heavy plates wrapped in paper towels to absorb moisture.
  2. Chop cauliflower into florets and steam in the microwave for 4 minutes, until fork tender. Remove from microwave, drain water, and set aside.

For the Red Sauce

  1. In a large saucepan over medium high heat, saute dried spices and garlic in olive oil for 2-3 minutes. Add blended tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.

For the White Sauce

  1. In another large saucepan, melt vegan butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  2. Add tahini, lemon juice, and almond milk, whisking constantly until flour mixture is smooth. Pour over top of steamed cauliflower and toss to coat. Set aside.

For the Tofu

  1. Crumble drained and pressed tofu into a large bowl and mix with lemon juice, nutritional yeast flakes, salt, pepper, italian seasoning,

Assemble the Casserole

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Press tofu mixture in bottom of 9 x 9 square glass baking dish. Top with cauliflower mixture, then top with tomato sauce.
  3. Bake casserole for 30 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly around the edges and the center is hot.
  4. Remove from oven and let sit at least 15 minutes to set.
Tofu mixture pressed into the bottom of a square baking dish.
The first layer of this cauliflower casserole is the tofu layer. Be sure to press it in tightly (I use my hands).
Cauliflower mixture on top of tofu layer in baking dish.
Next, top the tofu layer with the cauliflower mixture. Use the back of a spoon to evenly spread the cauliflower out over top of the tofu.
Blended fire roasted tomatoes in blender cup.
Canned diced fire roasted tomatoes add a ton of flavor! To get a creamy sauce, just blend in a nutri bullet until smooth.
Red and White Cauliflower Casserole ready to bake.
Bake the casserole for 35 minutes, until bubbling around the edges and hot in the center.

🥄 Equipment

Paper towels: you will need these if you have water packed tofu

Large saucepans

Large bowl

Microwave vegetable steamer

Hand whisk

Rubber spatula

🥫Storage

Refrigerate: store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 5 days.

Freeze: I do not recommend freezing this dish as it will become quite watery.

Reheat: gently reheat casserole in the microwave until warm.

Red and White Cauliflower Casserole with one serving removed from he dish.
It is best to let the casserole cool for about 15 minutes before serving to allow it to settle and not fall apart easily when removing from the dish.

💭 Tips

  • Choose vacuum packed tofu over water packed if at all possible.
  • Drain the steamed cauliflower as much as possible to prevent a watery casserole.

📚 Related Recipes

This Cauliflower Fried Rice is a delicious low carb side dish

Coconut Cauliflower Rice is a low carb take on the coconut rice.

I LOVE this Garlic Mashed Cauliflower with Browned Butter so much I would eat it daily!

General Tso's Tofu is a family favorite.

This Marinated Tofu Salad Recipe is super flavorful and so easy to make.

🍽 Serve with...

Enjoy this as a main dish or, pair it up with a protein and serve it as a vegetable side dish.

🏫 The last word

The original recipe came from a cookbook written by Lauren Ulm called Vegan Yum Yum. I highly recommend this cookbook and have made many recipes from it over the years!

📖 Recipe

Featured image for Red and White Cauliflower Casserole.

Red and White Cauliflower Bake

Shelby Law Ruttan
A delicious vegan recipe made with cauliflower, seasoned tofu, and fire roasted tomato sauce baked in a casserole diah.
5 from 2 votes
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Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Cooling time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 9
Calories 160 kcal

Equipment

  • 2 Large saucepan
  • Large bowl
  • Microwave steamer
  • Hand whisk
  • rubber spatula

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Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium cauliflower , chopped and steamed until crisp tender

For the tofu layer:

  • 12 ounces firm tofu , pressed and crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

For the White Sauce

  • ¼ cup vegan butter
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup oat milk

For the Red Sauce

  • 14.5 ounces fire roasted tomatoes , blended
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable better than bouillon

Instructions
 

  • Chop cauliflower into florets and steam in the microwave for 4 minutes, until fork tender. Remove from microwave, drain water, and set aside.

For the Tofu

  • If using water packed tofu, press between 2 heavy plates wrapped in paper towels to absorb moisture.
  • Crumble drained and pressed tofu into a large bowl and mix with lemon juice, nutritional yeast flakes, salt, pepper, italian seasoning, stirring to combine.

For the Red Sauce

  • In a large saucepan over medium high heat, saute dried spices and garlic in olive oil for 2-3 minutes. Add blended tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.

For the White Sauce

  • In another large saucepan, melt vegan butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  • Add tahini, lemon juice, and almond milk, whisking constantly until flour mixture is smooth. Pour over top of steamed cauliflower and toss to coat. Set aside.

Assemble the Casserole  

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  • Press tofu mixture in bottom of 9 x 9 square glass baking dish. Top with cauliflower mixture, then top with tomato sauce.
  • Bake casserole for 30 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly around the edges and the center is hot.
  • Remove from oven and let sit at least 15 minutes to set.

Nutrition

Calories: 160kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 460mgPotassium: 315mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 251IUVitamin C: 34mgCalcium: 131mgIron: 2mgNet Carbohydrates: 9g
Keyword Red and White Cauliflower Bake
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Fig and Gorgonzola Bruschetta with Balsamic Syrup

July 24, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 15 Comments

Crispy bruschetta toasts with gorgonzola cheese spread on top and a fresh fig with balsamic glaze. Fig and Gorgonzola Bruschetta with Balsamic Syrup are pure appetizer deliciousness with a creamy, crispy, and fresh mouth feel!

Fig and Gorgonzola Bruschetta with Balsamic Syrup

I love snacking.  Actually, I snack more than I eat a meal or I consider my snack a meal!  I also love to read my foodie magazines.  I read several of them but the one that inspired me today was Every Day with Rachel Ray.

Rachel has really gotten where I wish I could be....in a way.  I am a good talker and I love to eat...but to stand in my kitchen and talk and cook - that I don't think I could do.  When I cook, I want to be left alone.  I don't want people hovering over me much less do I want to have to be "scripted" in anyway. However, a show like her Tasty Travel's show....now that I could do!  Give me food someone else has made and let me talk about it - I'd be awesome at that!  Probably most of my family, friends and co-workers that I've carried on conversations with would tell you how my topic of conversation always goes to food!  I was certainly blessed with the gift of gab.

 Fig and Gorgonzola Bruschetta with Balsamic Syrup
With all that said, I was going through the August 2011 issue of Every Day with Rachel Ray and saw an article titled "Bruschetta - 9 ways"  Immediately I had a craving for crusty bread with spreadable cheese and fruit.  While my combination was not one of the 9 ways in the magazine, it's a twist on a couple of the ways.  I finally, for the first time ever, found fresh figs in a grocery store.  I also was craving some gorgonzola and of course, I had that yummy balsamic syrup that I used on my Caprese Panini that I knew would go well with my bruschetta.
Fig and Gorgonzola Bruschetta with Balsamic Syrup
Recipe Type: Appetizer
Author: inspired by Every Day with Rachel Ray
Ingredients
  • Thin slices of crusty baguette
  • Butter Spray
  • Gorgonzola Cheese
  • Fresh Figs, sliced in half (I used black mission figs)
  • Balsamic Syrup
Instructions
  1. Spray slices of baguette with butter spray and place on cookie sheet.  Broil until lightly toasted, flip and toast other side.  Keep a close eye on your baguette slices as they will burn quickly if you decide to not pay attention to them!
  2. Remove baguette slices from oven and spread a small amount of Gorgonzola cheese over warm slices and top with ½ fig, drizzle with Balsamic Syrup.....enjoy!
3.5.3208

Fig and Gorgonzola Bruschetta with Balsamic Syrup -  Pin it!Fig and Gorgonzola Bruschetta with Balsamic Syrup

 

Peanut-Sauced Chicken Pitas

July 21, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 10 Comments

Peanut-Sauced Chicken Pitas

I must admit it.  This recent issue of Cooking Light is a good one.  Perfect for warm weather food ideas....like the Caprese Panini!  This sandwich was different but delicious!  It has taste of "Thai" with the peanut sauce and the cilantro and wee bit of heat.  I am pretty sure this could easily be rolled up in a rice paper wrap and dipped in the peanut sauce.  Yummy 🙂

I was leary about whether Grumpy was going to be willing to eat this.  Anytime I make something "different" or anytime I mention sandwiches for dinner, I will hear a groan.

He didn't have a lot of choice tonight as by the time he arrived home, I already had dinner started.  I put these together, snapped my photos and handed him the plate.  Grumpy actually liked these!  I didn't hear any groaning; he may have known if he did he would be warming himself up a can of soup!  I actually heard a "wow, you gave me the plate you photographed."  LOL.  I loved this so much that I mixed up another batch and put it in the fridge to take to work for lunch the next day.   There is nothing bad about this sandwich in any way!  If you try this one, you won't regret it 🙂

Peanut-Sauced Chicken Pitas

 

📖 Recipe

Peanut-Sauced Chicken Pitas

Shelby Law Ruttan
Chicken and veggies in a peanut sauce make a tasty filling for pita bread!
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Thai
Servings 2 sandwiches
Calories 287 kcal

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Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cooked chicken torn apart
  • 2 tablespoons thin red bell pepper strips
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped sweet Vidalia onion
  • 2 tablespoons cucumber cut into thin long strips
  • 2 tablespoons carrots cut into thin long strips
  • 2 tablespoons peanut sauce
  • ⅛ teaspoon chili paste
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
  • 1-6 inch Tofuyan pita bread

Instructions
 

  • Combine all ingredients, divide into 2 servings between pita halves.  Enjoy!

Notes

**Note-CL does tell you to mix the chicken, pepper, onion, peanut sauce and salt and then assemble the sandwich with the remaining ingredients.  I just threw it all together - much easier when putting in a half a pita bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichesCalories: 287kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 63mgSodium: 474mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g
Keyword chicken, Chicken Pita Sandwich, Peanut Sauce, Peanut-Sauced Chicken Pita, Pita Sandwich
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Spicy Jalapeño Cheeseburger (Lighter Version of a Resturaunt Classic)

July 7, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 18 Comments

This Jalapeño Cheeseburger is spicy, cheesy, and everything a good burger should be-just made a little lighter. It has the kind of flavor that makes you wonder why you'd ever go back to takeout.

Open-faced jalapeño cheeseburger topped with caramelized onions, creamy sauce, and fresh jalapeño slices on a soft bun.

When I was in Indianapolis staying with my nephews, I packed one of my favorite cookbooks, Cook This! Not That! (affiliate link), for some cooking inspiration. My nephew Austin flipped through the pages with me and picked this burger to make together. He had it gone before I even sat down-I'd say that's the best kind of feedback!

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Why You'll Love This Jalapeño Cheeseburger

  • It tastes like a splurge, but it's not.
  • The spice is just right, and you can make it milder or hotter.
  • It's made with easy-to-find ingredients and doesn't take long.

We didn't have pepper jack, so I used Monterey Jack with fresh diced jalapeños. And in true Shelby fashion, I stuffed the cheese right into the burger. It's a little twist that turned out pretty great.

My Best Tips

Let the onions cook low and slow until golden and sweet.

Don't overmix the meat-just enough to hold it together.

Toast your buns while the pan's still hot.

What to Serve With It

I like to pair this burger with Southwestern Cheddar Steak Fries or Air Fryer French Fries. For something a little fresher, Creamy Coleslaw or Mexican Street Corn Salad works well, too.

📖 Recipe

Spicy Jalapeño Cheeseburger with Caramelized Onions

Shelby Law Ruttan
A lighter Jalapeño Cheeseburger made with lean beef, melted cheese, and caramelized onions-full of flavor without all the extra calories.
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 9 minutes mins
Total Time 19 minutes mins
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 543 kcal

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Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 pound ground sirloin
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
  • 1½ tablespoons diced jalapeno peppers
  • 1 cup caramelized onions see below for how to caramelize onions
  • ¼ cup pickled jalapeno slices I went with fresh since that was what we had
  • 4 potato burger buns

Instructions
 

  • Combine the ketchup, relish, and mayo in a mixing bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and set aside.
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground sirloin with salt and pepper. Shape into 4 equal sized patties.
  • In a small bowl, combine the cheese and diced jalapeños.
  • Place ¼ of the cheese mixture into center of each burger patty and wrap the burger around the cheese to stuff the burger.
  • Heat a grill or skillet over medium high heat until hot. Place patties on the grill and cook on the first side 5-6 minutes until a nice crust develops.
  • Flip the burgers and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until burgers are firm but still yielding to the touch.
  • Remove the burger from the grill and set aside.
  • Butter the cut side of each bun and grill on hot grill or skillet until lightly browned. Place a burger on the bottom half of each bun and top with caramelized onions, burger sauce, and jalapeño slices. Place top half of bun on burger and serve.

Notes

This burger was compared to Applebee's Southwest Jalapeno Burger which has 1,110 calories, 70 grams of fat and 2,100 milligrams of sodium!  
This recipe is adapted from Cook This! Not That! Jalapeno Cheeseburger. While it is slightly different from the original, it is still a healthier version of a restaurant burger.

Nutrition

Calories: 543kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 37gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 104mgSodium: 689mgPotassium: 497mgFiber: 2gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 510IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 395mgIron: 5mgNet Carbohydrates: 31g
Keyword Jalapeno Cheeseburger
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Mango Mojito - Single serving

July 4, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 10 Comments

Featured Image for Recipe for Mango Mojito.

Cool, refreshing with that minty hit, this recipe for Mango Mojito can be ready in less than 5 minutes and is full of coconut, mango, lime, and mint flavors! This mango mojito recipe is perfect for hot summer days and the 4th of July celebrations.

When looking for easy drink recipes, this Mango Mojito fits the bill. In just 5 minutes you can have a cold refreshing drink and enjoy the beautiful evening on the deck or in your backyard.

Featured Image for Recipe for Mango Mojito.

❤️ Why you'll love it

✔️ This drink recipe uses peach and mango nectar for a quick drink mix packed with fruity flavors.

✔️ If you love Cheeseburger In Paradise' Mango Mojito, you will be happy to have this recipe to make it right at home!

✔️ It is fruity and cold and the fresh mint leaves make it so refreshing.

🥘 Ingredients

Coconut rum (use regular rum if you wish)

Mango nectar

Club soda, lightens the drink up

Fresh mint leaves, to muddle into the drink along with garnishing the drink.

Lime juice and lime wedges, juice for the cocktail and wedges for garnish

Ice Cubes

🔪 Instructions

  1. Add the fresh mint and lime juice to the cocktail shaker. Using a wooden muddler, muddle the mint and lime juice for 1 minute, until the mint has released its oils.
  2. Add the ice, mango nectar, and coconut rum. Cover the cocktail shaker and shake for 30 seconds, until chilled.
  3. Strain the drink into a glass filled with ice and garnish with a lime wedge and mint leaf.
Image of a peach colored beverage.

🥄 Equipment

Shot glasses

Liquid measuring cups

Muddler

Cocktail shaker

🥫Storage

Store any unused limes or juice in the fridge up to 3 days.

📖 Variations

  • Use a fresh mango and make your own mango puree by processing the fruit in a blender. You can do the same thing with peaches.
  • To sweeten the drink up a little add a shot or two of simple syrup or add a tablespoon of granulated sugar to the lime and mint when muddling.

📚 Related Recipes

Try this fruity Strawberry Mojito made with rum.

A Dark Sweet Cherry Mojito is perfect for cherry lovers.

These Watermelon Mojitos are so cool and refreshing!

🍽 Serve with…

Serve this recipe for mango mojito with a tray of your favorite appetizers. These Bacon Wrapped Potato Wedges, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower, or BBQ Chicken Nachos.

Don't forget to check out my Amazon storefront for some of my favorite products!

When you make this recipe for mango mojito, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating

📖 Recipe

Featured Image for Recipe for Mango Mojito.

Recipe for Mango Mojito

Shelby Law Ruttan
A recipe for Mango Mojito, a quick and easy single serving drink made with mango nectar and coconut rum.
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Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 5 minutes mins
Course Beverages
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 257 kcal

Equipment

  • Shot glass
  • Liquid measuring cups
  • Muddler
  • Cocktail shaker

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients
  

  • 2 shots coconut rum
  • 2 ounce mango nectar
  • 1 ounce club soda
  • ¼ cup mint leaves
  • ½ lime juiced
  • 1 lime wedge , garnish
  • 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions
 

  • Muddle the mint leaves and lime juice in the bottom of a tall drink glass.
  • Fill glass ¾ full with ice and then pour in the remaining liquid ingredients.
  • Stir and serve!

Nutrition

Calories: 257kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 26mgPotassium: 132mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 896IUVitamin C: 27mgCalcium: 63mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Mango Mojito, Recipe for Mango Mojito
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Summer Rolls with Shrimp and Mango

July 1, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 3 Comments

Summery, fresh, crisp, and flavorful.  That is what these rolls are.  Somehow eating a fresh spring roll doesn't seem the same when eating one any other season.  These seem meant for warm weather eating.  My first experience with fresh spring rolls was at a Thai place back home.  I fell in love with them and easily can make them a meal.  I then decided I had to make the spring rolls from Veganomicon - Butternut Squash Spring Rolls - and those were SO awesome that I continue to look for other versions.  So, when I saw this recipe, I knew I would try it.

When we were visiting home over Memorial Day Weekend I was sitting at my Mom's table looking at cookbooks.  I came across the Cook This Not That book and realized that the one I bought was not the one I had thought I bought.  Well, when I went to Barnes and Noble over lunch break one day recently and I remedied that mistake!  While I love the one I did buy, I really wanted the one I didn't have.  (Hmm, I think I'm sounding like Grumpy in that statement!)

If you like these Summer Rolls, you may also like these recipes!
Vietnamese Summer Roll Shrimp Salad - A New York Foodie
Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Hoisin-Peanut Dipping Sauce - The Inquiring Chef



Summer Roll with Shrimp & Mango

Cook This!  Not That!


Printable recipe


1 tablespoon chunk peanut butter
1 tablespoon sugar
½ tablespoon fish sauce
½ tablespoon rice vinegar (plus more for the noodles)
2 oz thin rice noodles
8 sheets of rice paper
½ lb cooked medium shrimp, sliced in half
½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 mango, peeled, pitted, and cut into thin strips
4 scallion greens, cut into thin strips
¼ cup cilantro

Combine the peanut butter, sugar, fish sauce and vinegar with 1 tablespoon warm water.  Stir to thoroughly combine.  Set the peanut sauce aside.

Cook the noodles accordingly to package instructions.  Drain and toss with a few shakes of vinegar to keep from sticking.

Dip a sheet of rice paper into a bowl of warm water for a few seconds, until just soft and bendable.  Lay the paper on a cutting board.  Leaving a ½ inch space at each end of the wrapper, top with noodles, 3 or 4 shrimp halves, bell pepper, mango, scallion, and a few whole cilantro leaves.  Fold the ends of the rice paper toward the center, then roll tight like a burrito.  Repeat with the remaining 7 wrappers.  Serve with peanut sauce

4 servings @ 270 calories per serving

Southwestern Cheddar Steak Fries

June 23, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 17 Comments

Southwestern Cheddar Steak Fries are Mexican spiced roasted potato dish that is topped with cheese, red pepper and cilantro. It is a delicious side dish for any meal main protein or makes a great party appetizer.

A plate of Southwestern Steak Fries

Potatoes do not belong in the trash

It's not often I get a craving for a potato.  I hated potatoes as a child. So much so, I tossed them in the trash one Christmas, only to miss the can and hit the floor. I was unaware, but when my Aunt saw the potatoes on the floor, she knew exactly who tossed them! 

I never was a fan of potatoes as a child unless they were in french fry form. As an adult I don't really crave them often but, once in a while, I will see something on a menu or in a magazine that looks good enough to try.

Since I am a huge fan of Mexican flavors, these Southwestern Cheddar Steak Fries really appealed to me. The crispy roasted outside was delicious with the light spice topping. And of course, add cheese and they are golden!

What you need to make Southwestern Cheddar Steak Fries

Baby Potatoes: Choose white, red, or a mixture of both. I recommend baby potatoes since they bake quickly and are tender.

Smoked Paprika: This lends a smokiness that can't be substituted. If I were to recommend one spice in your cabinet to never run out of, it would be this one. This can be used to sprinkle over deviled eggs or in chili. There are so many ways to incorporate this spice into recipes that are tasty!

Cumin: This spice has a strong earthy, mildly spiced flavor. It is not overpowering or hot. It adds to Mexican flavors without adding heat.

Garlic Powder: This is added to compliment the paprika and cumin on the Southwestern Cheddar Steak Fries.

Olive Oil: The oil will coat the steak fries and allow the spices to stick to it. It also will help the potatoes to crisp up in the oven while baking.

Cheddar Cheese: I like to use a mild cheddar for these Southwestern Steak Fries. Anything stronger will overpower the flavors on the fries.

Sheet Pan: I like a heavy-duty sheet pan. One that will hold the heat without burning the food.

Tips for getting crispy outside edges on steak fries

  • Make sure the oven is hot. An oven thermometer will tell you if your oven is calibrated correctly. A hot oven is important for circulating the air in a blast, searing the outside of the potatoes while keeping the inside tender.
  • Don't skip the oil in the recipe. Well, you can skip it if you want, but your Steak Fries will not be as crispy as you may like them to be. Oil also adds flavor and we do need oils in our diet!
  • Be sure the wedges are skin down on the baking sheet. This allows the cut sides to be exposed to the air.

What to serve with these Steak Fries

Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches with Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing or this Steakhouse Cheeseburger would be great lunch or dinner main sandwich with a side of these steak fries.  

Steak and fries go great as well! Try this Honey Garlic Onion Topped Steak, or this Cilantro Limed Grilled Pork Chops.

Other Potato Recipes you may enjoy

Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Chives have 1 ingredient that puts this recipe over the top of all other mashed potato recipes.

Scalloped Potatoes for Two is a great small-batch recipe when you don't want a lot of leftovers.

Chorizo Jalapeno Potato Puff Bites are made in the oven or Air Fryer and are delicious little spicy bites of potato!

Potato Kielbasa Skillet Recipe is perfect for those who love their meat and potatoes browned in a skillet!

*If you made these Southwestern Cheddar Fries, please give them a star rating*

📖 Recipe

Southwestern Cheddar Steak Fries

Shelby Law Ruttan
Tender roasted potatoes are tossed with Mexican flavored spices and cooked to perfection. Sprinkled with a little cheddar cheese at the end of cooking time then topped with red pepper and cilantro.
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 173 kcal

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Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb baby potatoes washed and cut into wedges
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 oz finely shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
  • ⅓ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 2 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 425.  Line a large baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray.
  • Combine olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.  Toss potatoes in the mixture to coat.
  • Spread the potatoes on a cookie sheet and bake in the oven for 18 minutes or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.  Remove from the oven and sprinkle with cheese and red peppers.  
  • Place back in the oven for 2 minutes to melt the cheese.  Prior to serving, sprinkle with cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 173kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 5gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 204mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g
Keyword Cheddar Steak Fries, Southwestern Cheddar Steak Fries
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!

Meatball Crepes ala Austin

June 21, 2011 by Shelby Law Ruttan 9 Comments

Meatball Crepes

Meatballs enrobed in a thin crepe covered in your favorite pasta sauce and cheese. Meatball Crepes are something you and your kids will both enjoy!

Meatball Crepes
 
Have you ever heard of Meatball Crepes?  I know I hadn't until I arrived at my brother's home and my nephew said he would make them for our dinner one night while I was visiting.  He took a class on a cruise they went on last year and learned how to flip the crepe in the pan.  I was definitely game on for his cooking one night.  I was thinking "how cool, I've cooked with my brother in the kitchen, and now I get to cook with my nephew!"  What fun we had too!  We had a few crepes hit the floor and the laugh that gave my mother was priceless!
 
I think I never took so many photos of one thing in my life - or maybe my mom took more than I did!  I know we were really having a lot of fun and were excited that Austin wanted to cook!  Below is a progression of his making the meatballs and crepes.
 Meatball Crepes
 
Once all the crepes were made and it was time to assemble, I had Austin assemble his plate for me to photograph.  He did a pretty darn good job with the presentation too!
 
Now, how did they taste?  Excellent!  He did a great job all around and I actually tried something I had never heard of and now am excited to share it with you!
 
Meatball Crepes
 
Stay tuned for the dessert crepes - they required a little more help from me, but they turned out awesome too!
 

 

📖 Recipe

Meatball Crepes

Meatball Crepes ala Austin

Shelby Law Ruttan
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Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ¼ cup chopped herbs (basil, oregano, parsley) - we used dried and went with 1 teaspoon basil, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 1 tablespoon parsley)
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs we kind of forgot this in the mixture!
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1 jar of your favorite tomato pasta sauce
  • Savory Crepe Dough
  • ¾ cup cornmeal
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • To make the meatballs
    Preheat oven to 355 degrees. In large bowl, mix together beef, onion, garlic, herbs, breadcrumbs, and egg until combined. Add a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Using an ice cream scoop, portion out the meatballs into round balls. Bake meatballs until cooked through (15-20 minutes).
  • To make the crepes:
    Mix dry ingredients. Combine wet and dry ingredients in a food processor until smooth. (we did this the old fashioned way - by hand with a whisk!).
  • Spray small non stick pan with cooking spray. Pour enough batter to make a thin layer when the pan is swirled. Cook for minute on each side, or until golden brown. Put on a plate to cool until they are ready to be filled.
  • Assemble
    Place two meatballs in a line down the middle of the crepe (see recipe below), drizzle a little pasta sauce on top of the meatballs, roll the crepe and top with more mozzarella cheese and sauce.
Keyword Meatball Crepes ala Austin
Tried this recipe?Mention @grumpyshoneybunch or tag #grumpyshoneybunch!
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Hey, I'm Shelby

Shelby Law Ruttan is the cookbook author and food blogger behind HoneyB's Kitchen, where she shares scratch-made family recipes, comfort food, and easy home cooking inspired by generations of home cooks.

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