ML Interest Tag: crock-pot

3-Ingredient Appetizers for (Mostly) Stress-Free Entertaining

by Susie Foresman

It’s hard to choose between the Instant Pot chicken wings and the bacon-wrapped potato wedges

Whether you’re having a small gathering, heading to a big bash, or just want something special for a movie night with the kids, we have a few easy appetizer recipes that’ll come in handy. From finger foods to veggie appetizers, keep reading to check out our favorite appetizer recipes that are all made using three ingredients or less.

Baked Brie with Jam

Savory, gooey cheese, sweet fruit preserves, all served warm, what’s not to love? Get the recipe from America’s Test Kitchen.

Avocado Dip

Serve this 3-ingredient no-cook appetizer with crackers or veggies, either way, it’ll be a hit. Get the recipe from All Things Mama. 

3-Ingredient Hawaiian Meatballs

Ready in just 20 minutes, this 3-ingredient appetizer is perfect for little hands! Get the recipe from When Salty and Sweet Unite.

Proscuitto-Wrapped Pears with Balsamic Glaze

This is the definition of an easy appetizer recipe! If you want to get really fancy, consider throwing in a slice of cheese.

Monkey Bread

This cheesy monkey bread from Brit + Co is literally as easy as 1, 2, 3... ingredients. Kids will love the soft bread and parents will love how easy it is to make. 

Caprese Skewers

caprese skewers are an easy appetizer recipe
iStock

Quite possibly one of the easiest appetizers to whip up, simply grab fresh mozzarella balls, tomatoes, and pesto; skewer, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette, and go! 

Tomato and Cheddar Palmiers

The Suburban Soapbox

These pretty palmiers from The Suburban Soapbox will definitely impress your guests. Buttery puff pastry and tart tomatoes meld perfectly with rich cheddar cheese—delish! 

Crock Pot Chili Cheese Dip

chili cheese dip is an easy appetizer
Julie’s Eats and Treats

Break out your slow cooker for this crowd-pleasing dip from Julie’s Eats and Treats. With just two ingredients, it’s definitely the simplest thing you’ll make all day. 

Related: 18 Finger Foods Easy Appetizers You Can Make in 30 Minutes or Less

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Averie Cooks

This appetizer from Averie Cooks is kid-approved and super easy to make. You’ll get the crunchy, melty effect of mozzarella sticks but without the mess and hassle of deep frying. 

Instant Pot Wings

Instant Pot wings are an easy appetizer
Mom Advice

Everybody loves chicken wings, and Mom Advice has a foolproof method for making them in the Instant Pot. A quick pass under the broiler gives them a crispy finish. 

Pesto Yogurt Dip

Melanie Makes

This light and fresh dip from Melanie Makesis an ideal appetizer to serve before a heavy holiday meal. Pair it with plenty of fresh veggies, cheese, and crackers, and you’ll be ready to entertain a crowd. 

Best Breadsticks Ever

These breadsticks are an easy appetizer
Kiwi & Carrot

How fancy do these breadsticks from Kiwi & Carrot look?! Using a pre-made puff pastry makes them super easy to pull off, even if you’re not a master baker. 

Crock Pot Glazed Kielbasa Bites

Julie’s Eats and Treats

This genius recipe from Julie’s Eats and Treats is totally hands-off, thanks to the magical Crock Pot. It’s made with kielbasa, brown sugar, and one unexpected ingredient.

Bacon Wrapped Cherries with Thyme

We Are Not Martha

It might sound strange, but stay with us: these bacon-wrapped cherries from We Are Not Martha are delicious. The savory bacon makes a perfect contrast for tart, juicy cherries. 

Related: 13 Trader Joe’s Appetizers to Serve During the Holidays This Year

Quick Dinner Rolls

Life, Love and Good Food

Start your meal off with these yummy dinner rolls from Life, Love and Good Food. No rising required—just mix up the three ingredients, and bake the rolls in a muffin tin. 

Everything Parmesan Crisps

The Suburban Soapbox

This inventive take on a crispy cracker from The Suburban Soapbox is bound to be a hit with cheese lovers. Even better, they come together in less than 10 minutes, leaving you more time to obsess over the rest of the menu. 

Creamy Salsa Dip

Simply Stacie

For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, whip up a batch of this super easy dip from Simply Stacie. Paired with fresh veggies and tortilla chips, don’t be surprised if this one disappears fast. 

Classy Pigs in a Blanket

Culinary Hill

Make your party extra magical with an appetizer that only uses two (count ‘em, two!) ingredients. These pigs in a blanket are the definition of simple—and you can even add a touch of sesame seeds to up the wow factor. Get the recipe over at Culinary Hill.

Blue Cheese Bites

blue cheese bites are an easy appetizer recipe
A Wicked Wisk

Serving something warm to take the chill off is also the perfect way to welcome guests. This easy appetizer recipe from A Wicked Wisk combines a couple of our favorite things—flaky biscuits and flavorful blue cheese—to make a melty, bubbly appetizer perfect for a crowd. Drooling yet? 

Related: Did Somebody Say Bacon? 7 Bacon Appetizers to Make Today

Honey-Roasted Pecans

Trial and Eater

If you’re worried about dinner timing or want something festive (and deceptively simple) on your snack tray, make a batch of these honey-roasted pecans from Trial and Eater for guests to graze on throughout the day. The recipe couldn't be easier, but it’s way more delicious than the store-bought kind. 

Bacon-Wrapped Potato Wedges

bacon-wrapped potato wedges are an easy appetizer recipe
A Calculated Whisk

Potato wedges just got even tastier, thanks to this recipe from A Calculated Whisk. How? Why, wrap them in bacon, of course! Now you’ve got an appetizer fit for a hungry crowd of grown-ups and kiddos alike. 

Baked Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups

baked ham and cheese roll up is an easy appetizer recipe
Pumpkin ‘n Spice

For an appetizer that’s a bit more filling, try these yummy roll-ups from Pumpkin ‘n Spice. It’s easy to customize them with your favorite meats, cheeses, and seasonings. As a bonus, you can keep this recipe in rotation for school lunches. 

 

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17 Meals for Moms Too Tired to Feed Themselves

by Allison Sutcliffe

Ever get that feeling that although you’re super busy, nothing ever seems to get done? Sure, you’ve changed baby’s diaper at least 10 times today (and probably done just as many loads of laundry because of it), sat down for so many feedings you’ve lost count (hey, there’s an app for that), and if you’re lucky you managed to squeeze a shower in there somewhere, but probably not. And now you’re left wondering how it’s already time to make dinner. Whether you’re too busy, too tired, or both, we’re working to take meal planning off your plate. These meals for moms don’t take much prep and will fuel your busy days—from breakfast through dinner.

Breakfast Ideas

Overnight Oats

The trick to this recipe from @cleanplatemama is that you make it ahead of time. Stick it in the fridge before bed and wake up to a filling breakfast that appears like magic.

Perfect Scrambled Eggs

Whip up a simple scrambled egg in under five minutes—@cookwithnabeela will show you how. Once you’ve perfected it, throw in veggies, cheeses, and herbs to flavor them the way you like. Our favorite is with French thyme.

Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookie

Cookies for breakfast? Registered Dietician @preventionrd gives the green light to these that include apples, carrots, and oatmeal. Make a batch to get you through the week (and beyond).

Smashed Avocado & Poached Eggs

Avocado toast is always an easy one for breakfast or lunch, and this version created by @foodandhomesa fits the bill. The frozen peas add a little pop that’s unexpected, and although this recipe includes homemade spinach soda bread, we’re here to tell you it’ll taste just as good on whatever bread you’ve got.

Acai Bowl

The great thing about acai bowls is that you can top them with just about anything you’d like. Bananas, granola, and honey are pretty standard, but feel free to scoop in a nut-butter for extra protein or heap on the fresh fruit when it’s in season. Find out how to make this one @chelseasmessyapron.

Lunch Ideas

Celery Soup

This simple soup from @atasteofmadness1 can be made in under 30 minutes with just six ingredients (we’re betting most are already in your fridge). Our tip? If you’re not into transferring hot liquid into your blender, use an immersion blender instead.

Mango Spinach Smoothie

If you’ve got a blender, you can whip up one of our favorite easy meals for moms—a mango spinach smoothie from @cleanplatemama. It’s loaded with 20 grams of protein and healthy fats (from the avocado) all new moms need to get through the day.

Obsessively Good Avocado Cucumber Salad

A few fresh ingredients and the time to chop them all up is what it takes to make @smittenkitchen‘s avocado cucumber salad (and yes, it’s obsessively good). We love that you can use the leftover avocado to make it for lunch the next day, too.

Spaghetti Salad

Make this tasty salad created by @theveiwfromgreatisland for yourself for lunch and you’ll have plenty leftover for dinner. It combines crave-worthy carbs with tons of fresh veggies—a great excuse to hit the farmer’s market in the summer.

Dill Pickle Grilled Cheese

If you didn’t get too many of these during your pregnancy cravings, you’ll love them on this inventive grilled cheese sandwich @pitchforkfoodie dreamed up. Really, you could top this grilled cheese with just about anything and it would be good.

Dinner Ideas

Beef Lettuce Wraps

What should every mom’s go-to dinner include? Something quick and something healthy. That’s what we love about these beef lettuce wraps from @momsdish. Putting them together is as simple as browning your protein (ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even tofu are simple substitutes to make) and assembling the rest of the ingredients atop a fresh bib lettuce leaf. Roll and enjoy.

Vegetable Pancakes

What’s not to love about this simple way to use up leftover veggies from @tiffy.cooks? Take a deep dive in the fridge (yep, all the way to the back) hunting for half-finished carrots, cabbage, peppers, cucumbers, potatoes—whatever is taking up space. Shred, squeeze, and pan fry them before topping with a tasty sauce.

Greek-Inspired Hump Day Salad

It doesn’t have to be Wednesday to make this Hump Day dish we found @easy_salad_recipes, but it doesn’t hurt. Open a bag of lettuce, toss on the toppings, and you’ve got yourself a healthy meal in minutes. Hint: pickle red onion on your countertop by placing sliced red onions in vinegar, then adding a bit of salt and sugar. They should be ready in about 30 minutes.

Lemon Rosemary Chicken

Pick up a pack of boneless, skinless chicken breasts from the store (or pull them from the freezer in the morning) to make this meal for moms from @themediterraneandish. Season them, drizzle some olive oil on top, then throw it in the oven. If you’re feeling really fancy, add a bag salad to this meal.

Chipotle Chicken Tostadas

Ground chicken is the base for this easy-to-assemble recipe from @preventionrd, but you can easily sub ground turkey if it’s easier to find. The avocado and pineapple salsa add a little something extra—a tropical flair that’ll make you feel like you’re on vacation.

Crock Pot White Chicken Chili

Who doesn’t love a meal you can start around lunch time and enjoy five hours later for dinner? This simple white chicken chili by @damn_delicious takes about 10 minutes to put together. The rest is up to your crock pot. Note: if you’re nursing or just want to avoid spicy foods, cut down on the green chilies.

Squash & Chickpea Moroccan Stew

Dicing the potatoes is probably the heaviest lift in this hearty recipe from @smittenkitchen, but the rest of the ingredients don’t involve too much prep. Serve it over couscous or not—it’s up to you. Either way, you’ll have leftovers to enjoy the next day.

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How to Throw an Epic Bonfire Party This Fall

by Oz Spies

It’s officially sweater weather, ya’ll. This means it’s the perfect time to plan a bonfire party with friends

A bonfire party is a perfect way to welcome fall. Create a fun, festive air that makes the most of cool nights with flickering flames, cozy conversation, and fall crafts. Think of it as camping without leaving the comfort of your own home! Whether you have outdoor space or not, you can easily host a bonfire party. Combine the best fireside desserts with not-too-spooky stories, the warm glow of a fire, and fall decorations, and you’ll be ready for an easy, fun family night.

Start by setting the scene

iStock

Part one? The bonfire!  You don’t need a big outdoor fire pit. Use an indoor gas or wood-burning fireplace and keep things cozy in your living room. Or, add ambiance with a tiny portable fire or a cluster of battery-operated candles. We love this mini portable bonfire that can be used indoors or out. You can toast marshmallows over even the smallest flames. If you don't have a fire pit in your outdoor space, consider getting a smokeless fire pit from Solo. Available in all different sizes, they're an easy and safe way to have a backyard fire. Add a few camp chairs around the portable stove and you’ll be set. If you've got really tiny kiddos, opt for a few safe, bonfire-themed toys, like a toddler-friendly felt bonfire.

Decide on your menu

Good food is a key ingredient for a bonfire party. Snack on s’mores-inspired treats like oven-made s’mores.  Or, set up a big spread with all the s’mores ingredients, and swap out chocolate for a peanut butter cup or peppermint patty to give your s’mores a memorable twist. Pick up a few extendable kid-friendly roasting sticks. To drink, add festive crock pot apple cider. If your party is at dinnertime, treat your guests to fondue or a decadent charcuterie board.

Plan activities perfect for a bonfire party

Games

If you have a bigger outdoor space or a yard to use, bring out oversized lawn games, and when it gets dark, turn out the lights and play fun flashlight games. For small or indoor spaces, plan on classic card games like Uno, your favorite board games, or easy tic tac toe.  Put together an epic mix to encourage dancing around the fire. Add fire-themed songs like Great Balls of Fire, Firework, or This Girl is on Fire.

Crafts

If you’ve got more of an arts-and-crafts crowd in your house, plan a bonfire-themed craft like making food coloring or glitter fireworks in a jar or creating a tissue paper fire. For the easiest project ever, put marshmallows on the end of sticks to use as paintbrushes—a fun tactile craft that’s super easy to put together. Stamping with marshmallows makes interesting dot patterns.

Cozy Activities

When the stars are bright and the flames are flickering, snuggle up under blankets and share some not-too-spooky ghost stories. Or, have a cozy conversation around the fireplace with clever conversation starters sure to get everyone giggling like “If you had to eat a worm, how would you cook it?” Finally, you can choose a movie the whole family will enjoy, like one of these Pixar movies ranked for parental enjoyment, kids’ movies parents love too, or one from our ultimate list of movies for kids.

Things to Consider When Hosting a Bonfire Party

family at a bonfire party
iStock

To keep everyone safe around the fire, make sure your kids know about fire safety: never, ever play with matches, don’t touch the fire itself, and keep a safe distance. Outdoor fire pits should be at least three feet away from anything that can catch on fire.

Be sure to douse all the flames at the end of the night, and check local guidelines before lighting an outdoor fire pit. Air quality restrictions or fire warnings might mean outdoor fires aren’t an option in your area.

If your kids aren’t quite ready for a real fire, substitute a cluster of battery-operated candles for flickering flames. You get all the glow and zero worries about burns.

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15 Hilarious and Adorable Costumes for Expecting Moms

by Karly Wood

Waddle up to this year’s Halloween party in a bump-worthy getup that’s sure to entertain

If you’re rocking a baby bump this Halloween, there’s nothing wrong with throwing on a shirt that says “Exhausted Pregnant Lady Is My Costume” or buying yourself one of those timeless Preggo sweatshirts. But if you want to get a little more DIY about it, we’ve found lots of bump-worthy options—whether you want your belly on full display or prefer a more subtle look. Keep scrolling for some great (and often hilarious) maternity Halloween costumes that are sure to be a hit this year.

E.T.

The red hoodie looks super comfy, but if you don’t have a bestie who’s a makeup artist you’re probably not attempting this DIY. We’ll still admire it though! The bike handlebars and basket are the icing on this costume.

Kool-Aid Man

This one never gets old, and we’d bet neighborhood parents love the nostalgia hit. The best part? All you need is a Kool-Aid colored t-shirt (red and purple are popular), some face cutouts, and a cardboard brick wall. Oh yeah!

Winnie the Pooh

Head back to the Hundred Acre Wood with this sweet and simple costume. All you need is a cropped red t-shirt over a form-fitting yellow dress. We especially love these beehive buns!

Wilson

You can literally wear any cozy clothes to become Tom Hanks’s beloved soccer ball from Cast Away—you just need someone to draw Wilson on your bump. Finish the look with a straw headpiece. Hope you and baby find a dessert-ed island to hang around on Halloween, yum.

Bun In the Oven

This one requires a little more work but the payoff is laughter all around. Just wear all black and make a simple black oven from your most recent Amazon box. Don’t forget the bun in your oven!

Monsters Inc

Whoever said baby bumps don’t make the perfect monster eyeball was just plain wrong. This family Monsters, Inc. getup is delightful if you’ve got the energy to craft a giant green Mike Wazowski. Beyond that, just throw on your coziest black leggings and long-sleeve shirt. Le blue hard hat optional.

Thing 1 and Thing 2

Make Dr. Seuss proud with this easy-peasy getup for Halloween. Simple black leggings are paired with a red shirt, blue wig, and DIY “Thing 1” and “Thing 2” cutouts.

Disco Ball

Missed your chance to hit the dance floor at Studio 54? No problem! This DIY disco ball pairs a grey gown with a stretchy sequinned silver belly band and a grey wig. Extra points for the silver hanging loop—it’s all about the details!

Basketball

This costume is definitely a slam dunk! Grab your coach and put your best bump forward with some athleisure wear, a few sweatbands, and a basketball drawn on your belly.

Ali Wong

Comedian Ali Wong is known for her sassy standup, especially while preggo. All you need to channel your inner funny girl is a leopard print dress, cat-eye glasses, a microphone, and a top knot.

Prego Tomato Sauce

This is a classic, comfy maternity costume idea. Bonus: If you’ve got a big sibling to join in the fun, let them shine as the little meatball that they are.

Marge Gunderson

Fargo fans, this one’s for you. To get into the spirit of Frances McDormand’s iconic expecting police chief, grab yourself a beige or yellow button-up, a Minnesota-worthy parka, and some kind of trapper hat with a fake police badge. Don’t forget some hot cocoa in a coffee cup!

Gumball Machine

https://www.instagram.com/p/CVt3Jh-LP6g/

Go big with color this year! This easy-to-make gumball costume simply involves gluing copious amounts of pompoms on a white shirt and pairing it with red bottoms. Giant quarter, anyone?

Snowman

Ready for winter? If you can’t wait for chilly days, then embrace some snowman vibes by attaching oversized pom poms to a white shirt and tying off the look with a festive scarf. You’ll get betting tons of warm hugs with this costume.

Mama Rivera (Coco)

Kids still obsessed with Coco? Mama Rivera is a great way to transition from comfy day wear to a night of trick or treating! A flowy skirt, easy sandals and a pretty embroidered top are all you need to embrace with Dios de los Muertos (or Halloween).

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27 Pumpkin Recipes to Spice Up Your Fall

by Cherie Gough

Find your favorite pumpkin recipes for the fall season

Pumpkin isn’t just for lattes—at this time of year, we love incorporating the humble fruit (yes, fruit!) into as many different recipes as we can, from savory pumpkin recipes like cheesy pasta dishes to indulgent desserts and even healthy pumpkin pie. As long as you’re in the holiday spirit, you may want to bookmark some Halloween-themed dinner ideas as well as easy Halloween treats. And on nights when you’re in the mood for some good eats but want to do minimal work, check out these killer CrockPot recipes or make a beeline for the pumpkin offerings at Trader Joe’s. 

Sweet Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin Truffles

If you’re looking for something sweet and pumpkin-y, look no further! These pumpkin truffles are a delicious treat.

Iced Pumpkin Spiced Latte

pumpkin recipes
Boulder Locavore

Make your own PSL at home this year! We love this simple recipe from Boulder Locavore. The trick to getting a good mix is to use cold brew.

Pumpkin Pudding Cakes

Warm Pumpkin Cake is a sweet pumpkin recipe
The View from Great Island

If you and your crew like pumpkin pie then you'll love these warm pumpkin pudding cakes from The View from Great Island. Topped with pecans and whipped cream, these mini soufflés are a great way to branch out from your go-to pumpkin pie this holiday season.

Pumpkin Butter

pumpkin recipes
Koti Beth

For the true pumpkin-heads out there, pumpkin butter is a dream come true. This version from Koti Beth is made with pumpkin puree, a little sweetener and spices, and tastes great spread on toast, swirled into yogurt or oatmeal, or dolloped on top of pancakes or ice cream. It also makes for a delicious edible gift around the holidays.

Related: Pumpkin It Up with These Baby-Friendly Recipes

Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip

Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip
Erhardts Eat

Cheesecake meets pumpkin in this genius (and super easy) recipe from Erhardts Eat. Once the dip is whipped together, your whole crew can go to town dipping sliced apples, cookies, pretzels, and graham crackers.

Vegan Pumpkin Brownies

Rhian’s Recipes

For a little something different, try these delish vegan brownies from Rhian’s Recipes. They’re naturally sweetened with dates and are gluten-free for sensitive tummies.

No-Churn Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream

pumpkin recipes
Under the Willow Tree

Pumpkin bliss is just a few hours away, thanks to this recipe from Under the Willow Tree. It’s even vegan, so all you’ll need is a can of coconut milk, pumpkin puree, and a few spices from your pantry.

The Best Pumpkin Bars

Oh My Goodness Chocolate Desserts

Ring in the season by making these amazing pumpkin bars from Oh My Goodness Chocolate Desserts. The bars are topped with a sweetened cream cheese mixture—delish!

Pumpkin Bread Recipe

pumpkin bread
Kristine via Kristine's Kitchen

When you've had your fair share (and then some) of homemade banana bread, and you want to switch things up, check out Kristine's Kitchen for her awesome pumpkin bread recipe! The best part? It's sneakily healthy!

Related: Simple Pumpkin Crafts You Can Do with the Kids

Pumpkin-Spiced Oatmeal

pumpkin recipes
Damn Delicious

You can’t beat a bowl of old-fashioned oats to fill hungry tummies on a crisp fall morning. This recipe from Damn Delicious will remind you how quick and easy oatmeal can be. Set toppings out the night before on the kitchen countertop and watch the breakfast magic begin as your little ones fill up on healthy fiber with a pumpkin kick.

Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

Dishing Delish

If you’ve got any leftover canned pumpkin on your hands, this smoothie recipe from Dishing Delish is the perfect way to use it. It’s the next best thing to having a slice of pumpkin pie for breakfast.

Pumpkin Nutella Cookie Bars

Crazy for Crust

Haven't tried the pumpkin and chocolate combo craze yet? Go! Get in the kitchen ... now! We promise you'll be stuck on these Pumpkin Nutella Cookie Bars from Crazy for Crust this fall. Serve 'em warm and ooey-gooey with a tall glass of milk. 

Pumpkin Blondies

Friday Is Cake Night

We can’t resist a blondie, and this pumpkin version from Friday Is Cake Night is sure to be an instant hit with your crew. The one-bowl recipe is a breeze to make, and you can round up the kids to do the mixing.

Pumpkin Peanut Butter Cups

pumpkin recipes
Anya’s Eats

This fun twist on the classic from Anya’s Eats is surprisingly easy to make. And with a mix of almond butter, pumpkin, and spices, it’s perfect for fall.

Pumpkin Pancakes

No. 2 Pencil

Everyone deserves dessert for breakfast sometimes! The yummy combo of pumpkin, cinnamon, and icing will transform Saturday morning into a celebration. Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Pancakes from Number 2 Pencil with warm maple syrup or drizzled cream cheese glaze. Yum!

Related: This Viral Pumpkin Carving Hack Might Just Change Your Life

Pumpkin Pie Pudding

My Life Cookbook

For an after-school snack that satisfies a sweet tooth without being unhealthy, you’ve got to try this pumpkin pie pudding from My Life Cookbook. It comes together in the blender in less than 10 minutes and tastes great topped with coconut cream or whipped cream.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin muffins are a sweet pumpkin recipe
Bitz N Giggles

These yummy muffins from Sara at Bitz N Giggles are pulling double duty: you can enjoy them for breakfast or dessert! (Or both, we won't tell.)

Savory Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin Beef Bolognese

Beef Bolognese is usually a crowd-pleasure, and the addition of fall’s favorite squash gives it something special. Get the recipe from Serving Dumplings.

Pumpkin Bolani

If you’re familiar with Afghan food (and if you’re not, we recommend trying it ASAP), then you’re probably a fan of Bolani, a flatbread stuffed with yummy combinations usually served as an appetizer. This version comes with a savory pumpkin spread on the inside, and it’s recommended you serve it with a dipping yogurt. Get the recipe from Herat Kitchen, and be on the lookout for shortcuts!

Chicken Bacon Pumpkin Pasta Bake

Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake, a savory pumpkin recipe
Pinch of Yum

Sunday dinner, here we come! This pasta bake from Pinch of Yum is filled with caramelized onions, plenty of pumpkin, and a healthy sprinkling of cheese. It’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds.

An Autumnal Pasta

Cooktoria

This awesome pasta dish from Cooktoria is sure to be an instant hit with your crew, thanks to its delicious sauce made with pumpkin, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. If your kids aren’t into mushrooms, you can sub in Italian sausage.

Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

pumpkin mac and cheese is savory pumpkin recipe
Life Made Sweeter

We’ve discovered the ultimate in comfort food, thanks to Life Made Sweeter. This pumpkin macaroni and cheese is perfect for chilly fall nights, and it comes together in less than 30 minutes. 

Related: 22 Things To Do with Pumpkins After Halloween

Pumpkin Coconut Soup

pumpkin recipes
Jade Aucamp on Unsplash

Let the kids help make this tasty Caribbean-inspired soup from Stir It Up by Ramin Ganeshram. It’s easy to throw together using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

pumpkin recipes
Anshu A on Unsplash

After you carve your pumpkins, don’t throw out the seeds! It’s so easy to make roasted pumpkin seeds, and they’re sure to be a family favorite, whether they’re sprinkled on a salad or packed in lunches.

Pumpkin Chili

slow cooker pumpkin chili is a savory pumpkin recipe
Tatertots & Jello

This award-winning chili from Tatertots & Jello has a hint of pumpkin sweetness that sings in your mouth. Just brown the meat and onions, dump the ingredients in the slow cooker, and voila! Dinner is done! Try milder spices to please budding taste buds, or make this one when hosting. Football and chili anyone?

Pumpkin Alfredo Ravioli

Pumpkin Alfredo Ravioli is a savory pumpkin recipe
Taste and Tell

Start with a package of frozen ravioli. Stir together a few simple ingredients to make a decadent sauce. The smooth, rich flavors of this ravioli with pumpkin alfredo from Taste and Tell come together so quickly that you'll wish you'd invited company over for dinner.

 

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Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan

by Erin Lem

While this recipe certainly wouldn’t satisfy chicken parm traditionalists, we can’t help but love how easy it is

Once again the crock pot comes to the rescue for this version of chicken parm. Merely throw all three (yes, it only takes three!) ingredients, cook on low for 6-8 hours and you’ve got a hearty meal. Since this Crock Pot chicken parmesan recipe doesn’t require dredging the chicken in egg and bread crumbs, the cleanup is oh-so-easy as well. Be sure to check out our other favorite crock pot recipes!

Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Ingredients:

18 oz. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 jar spaghetti sauce
1 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation Method:

1.  Place chicken in the crock pot. If you’re using frozen chicken tenders, no need to thaw.

2. Pour the spaghetti sauce over the chicken and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. Before serving sprinkle the cheese over the chicken and sauce. Re-cover to let the cheese melt.

4. Serve with pasta, garlic bread and/or salad.

photo courtesy of Baking & Creating with Avril 

 

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Crock Pot Chicken from Heaven

by Erin Lem

 

This no-brainer crock pot recipe is as easy as it can get

For an easy dinner, nothing beats relying on your crock pot. This crock pot chicken recipe—from Phyllis Good’s new book, Stock the Crock—is truly a slice of heaven. Convenient, delicious, and adaptable to Paleo diets, we’re betting this recipe will soon become a part of your nightly rotation. Read on for the crock pot recipe below, and then check out her book by clicking here.

You’ll need a 6 qt. oval slow cooker
Serves 4 to 5
Prep: 10 to 15 minutes
Cook: 4 to 5 hours.

Chicken Crock Pot Recipe Ingredients:

1 lemon, sliced
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
4- to 5-pound whole chicken
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1⁄2 to 2 cups chicken broth (make your own, page 256) or dry white wine, or a combination of the two
3⁄4 to 1 pound gluten-free noodles, cooked, optional
1⁄2 pound peeled baby carrots, cooked, optional
1 1⁄2 cups peas, cooked, optional
fresh toppers: fresh rosemary and lemon slices

Method:

1. Grease the interior of the slow cooker crock with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

2. Place the lemon slices and rosemary sprigs into the cavity of the chicken.

3. Holding the chicken over the crock, sprinkle salt and pepper all over the bird. Place it in the prepared crock.

4. Pour the chicken broth and/or white wine down along the sides of the crock so you don’t wash the seasoning off the chicken.

5. Cover. Cook on Low 4 to 5 hours, or until the legs move freely and an instant-read meat thermometer stuck into the breast (but not against the bone) registers 160°F or stuck into the thickest part of a thigh (but not against the bone) registers 175°F.

6. Remove and discard the lemon slices and rosemary sprigs. Cut up the chicken, and serve with noodles, carrots, and peas, if desired. Add fresh rosemary and lemon slices, if desired. Reserve the broth for gravy or as a soup base for another meal.

Good to Know: Simple Swaps

Add 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder in addition to salt and pepper in Step 3. After seasoning, put the chicken in the crock, breast down, and sprinkle in a pinch of saffron just before cooking. Saffron isn’t cheap, but it really boosts the wonderful flavor of this chicken!

For more broth, add 3 to 4 cups of water in Step 4.

Place half of an onion into the cavity of the chicken in Step 2 for additional flavor. Remove it in Step 6 before cutting up the chicken.

How to Make It Paleo-Friendly

Use sea salt instead of iodized salt.

Eat the chicken with vegetables (remember, no legumes, potatoes, or grains) for one main meal and with fresh salad ingredients for another (steering clear of commercial salad dressings, of course).

 

Phyllis Good is the most trusted name for slow-cooker recipes. According to the New York Times, her books have sold more copies in the US than the combined works of popular Food Network hosts Ina Garten, Giada De Laurentiis, and Jamie Oliver. With her new cookbook Stock the Crock (Oxmoor House, September 2017, $21.99), Good has compiled 100 delicious must-have recipes as well as 200 easy-to-follow variations for any dietary preference (gluten-free, paleo, vegan, etc.). Crowd-sourced from Good’s massive fan base and tried-and-tested by Good herself, the recipes in this book promise to be made time and again.

Excerpted from Stock the Crock by Phyllis Good. Copyright © 2017 Oxmoor House. Reprinted with permission from Time Inc. Books, a division of Time Inc. New York, NY. All rights reserved.

 

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Crowd-Pleasing Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki

by Claire Schillings

Sit back and relax with this amazingly simple recipe (it might be the easiest we’ve ever seen!), and add some kid-friendly flavor to your evening

We can’t think of much that our kids like better than chicken teriyaki! For the perfect family feast, try this Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki recipe from Kylee at Our Little Acre. If you’re looking for other amazing dinner ideas, check out our list of crock pot dinner recipes.

Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki Ingredients:

1 lb. chicken, cubed
1 cup chicken broth (optional; Kylee recommends skipping it)
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
3 garlic cloves, minced

Preparation Method:

1. Combine chicken broth, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, and garlic cloves in a large bowl.

2. Add chicken to the sauce, and mix.

3. Pour chicken mixture into crock-pot.

4. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until chicken is cooked through.

5. Serve over hot cooked rice and spoon on extra sauce if desired.

recipe courtesy of Our Little Acre

 

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3-Ingredient Recipes That Make Kids AND Parents Happy

by Stacy Liu

You’ll be amazed at what you can make with just three ingredients

If you’re anything like us, you’re always on the hunt for easy dinner recipes. The fewer ingredients we have to remember, the better (because no one likes doing a last-minute grocery store run!). To make all of our lives easier, we’ve rounded up a list of 3-ingredient recipes that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Read on to simplify your meal plan.

Cauliflower Soup

cauliflower soup is an easy 3-ingredient recipe
Just a Taste

Your whole crew is sure to fall in love with this silky soup from Just a Taste. It’s practically begging to be topped with your favorite add-ons, from a simple swirl of olive oil to crumbled bacon or crispy chickpeas. 

Blackened Chicken

blackened chicken is a good 3-ingredient recipe
Cooking with Janica

Dry, overcooked chicken will be a thing of the past once you try this 3-ingredient recipe from Cooking with Janica. Their easy method yields a juicy, well-seasoned chicken breast—perfect for pairing with rice, salad, or potatoes.

Perfect Roasted Potatoes

A Clean Bake

Our hunt for perfectly crispy roasted potatoes has finally come to an end, thanks to A Clean Bake. This foolproof method will have your whole family asking for seconds.

 

Honey Teriyaki Lime Salmon

Delicious salmon is less than a half hour away, thanks to this 3-ingredient recipe from Savory Nothings. Bonus points if you make your own teriyaki sauce (but we won’t judge if you go for the bottled stuff!).

Tomato Tortellini Soup

Honey and Birch

Grab your soup pot and make a big batch of this soup from Honey and Birch! With the homey goodness of tomato soup and tortellini (a kid fave!), we guarantee it'll disappear in no time.

Creamy Tomato Shells

Pinch of Yum

Trust us, you're gonna want to bookmark this delish recipe from Pinch of Yum. It's hearty, homey, and can be whipped up for any busy weeknight dinner. 

Related: 14 Easy Meals Kids Can Make Themselves This Summer

Ham and Cheese Freezer Sandwiches

Make-ahead-meal alert! We love how these sandwiches from A Taste of Madness can be frozen and then heated whenever you need a quick and easy school lunch. Plus, you can always customize it with your kiddo’s favorite lunch meat.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Lanc Foodie Girl

Taco night just got way easier, thanks to this genius recipe from Lanc Foodie Girl. Set up the slow cooker in the morning, and dinner will be hot and ready by the time you get home.

 

3-Ingredient Biscuit Recipe

The Feathered Nester has an incredibly easy 3-ingredient biscuit recipe we love for weekend breakfasts. 

Grilled Ranch Pork Chop

No one likes a dry pork chop! Good news: this recipe from Gimme Some Grilling is going to be your new go-to method for the juiciest (and easiest) pork. The secret ingredient is hiding in the grocery store spice aisle.

Sweet Potato Wraps

Lemons & Basil

We’re always on the hunt for healthy snacks that the little ones will actually eat, and these sweet potato wraps from Lemons & Basil get the toddler seal of approval. You can fill them up with butter, cheese, or peanut butter for a perfectly balanced snack. 

Crock Pot BBQ Chicken Wings

A platter filled with chicken wings that were cooked in a crock pot
Intelligent Domestications

Three ingredients and a few hours in a Crock Pot and bam! Now you have killer BBQ chicken wings to feed the masses, all thanks to this recipe from Intelligent Domestications. Plus the kids will get a kick out of the “secret ingredient.”

 

Grilled Cheese Rollups

Flat sandwiches are so last year… These rollups from My Little Gourmet are perfectly sized for tiny hands to dunk into a bowl of soup.

Related: 31 Make Ahead Meals That Are Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Handmade Gnocchi

Get your tiny taste testers’ hands deep into potatoes when they help you make gnocchi from scratch! Pair this step-by-step tutorial from Eugenie’s Kitchen with the tomato sauce later in this roundup.

Baked Rollups

Two ham and cheese roll ups sit on a plate ready to eat by even the most picky of eaters
It's Peachy Keen

Roll up ham and cheese for a dinner that will have the little ones forgetting about their pre-boxed meat, cheese, and crackers (you know which ones we're talking about!). You and your kids can whip up this recipe from It's Peachy Keen in less than 20 minutes for a fun, fingers-only meal. 

Apple Juice Chicken

Apple Juice Chicken topped with green onions sits on a white plate garnished with lettuce
Oatmeal with a Fork

You know that stockpile of juice boxes your family has been collecting? This sweet recipe, courtesy of Oatmeal With a Fork, puts them to good use! This chicken is flavorful and easy to make—and we’re willing to bet it’ll be a hit with kids and grown-ups alike. 

Steak Pinwheels

Weary Chef

A dinner that is fun to make, fun to look at, and deliciously satisfying to eat? Please let your burgeoning kitchen master bring these pinwheels to your dinner table. Weary Chef simplifies it down so your little one can get artsy with their greens before rolling it up to bake. 

Garlic Charred Green Beans

Nyssa’s Kitchen

For the easiest (and kid-friendliest) side dish, you’ve got to try these green beans from Nyssa’s Kitchen. Her method leaves the beans perfectly tender with a little char on the outside. Drooling yet? 

 

Grilled PB&J Sandwiches

https://www.instagram.com/p/CHxlW1bppng/?hidecaption=true

If your little one is tired of sandwiches, switch it up with this tortilla version on the stove. It’s literally as simple as spreading peanut butter and jelly on a tortilla, then heating up before devouring.

Dairy-Free Perfect Noodles

Miles Burke/Unsplash

This easy dish subs nutritional yeast for parmesan and olive oil for butter to make a simple, dairy-free alternative to your kiddo’s favorite go-to pasta dish. Just cook spaghetti or linguine noodles according to the package, toss in enough olive oil to coat, and sprinkle liberally with nutritional yeast. You can add parsley, pepper, and a pinch of salt if you’re a rule-breaker.

Black Bean Soup

The Pretty Bee

Does your kiddo feel like traveling south of the border for dinner? Try out this deliciously simple black bean soup recipe from The Pretty Bee.

 

Easy Meatballs

We know your kids can’t get enough of meatballs once they’re on the table—it’s time to teach them where those delicious things come from. Take a peek at Persnickety Plates’ recipe for three-ingredient slow cooker pineapple teriyaki meatballs and have your little sous chef’s help with all the prep.

Rich Tomato Sauce

The Honour System

This one's an easy one for momma's helper, and it's done in no time at all. The Honour System has got tomato sauce down to a two-step science: simmer and stir! 

 

Maple & Mustard Salmon

Your iron chefs-in-training may or may not be ready for handling raw salmon, but they can certainly help out with a sweet and spicy glaze from For the Love of Cooking.

 

 

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19 No-Cook Meals & Cold Dinner Ideas because It’s Hot Outside

by Abigail Matsumoto

There are some classic summer recipes here

When you’re sweating it out in the summer, the last thing you want to do is turn on the stove and make an elaborate dinner. From refreshing salads and cold dinner ideas to delicious wraps, we’ve whipped up a list of our favorite summer recipes that don’t involve cooking. Take a break from the oven and make one of these tasty no-cook meals!

Shrimp Spring Rolls

These fresh and delicious shrimp spring rolls from Tastes Better from Scratch are such an easy cold dinner idea, you’ll want to add them to your recipe rotation ASAP.

Chopped Thai-Inspired Chicken Salad

Thai chicken salad is a cold dinner idea
Pinch of Yum

Grab a bag of pre-shredded cabbage and carrots, roast chicken, peanuts, and other yummy ingredients like ginger, soy, and of course, peanut butter, and whip up this Thai-inspired chicken salad from Pinch of Yum without ever having to turn on the stove or oven.

Easy Summer Corn Salad

corn salad is a great cold dinner idea, a great no cook meal and an easy summer recipe
Hip2Save

Great as a side or a delicious dinner, this summer corn salad is refreshing and light. Made with a homemade dressing, you can easily dress up this salad by adding a protein and make it easier, by chopping up everything the night before! Find the recipe at Hip2Save.

Best Ever Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a perfect cold dinner idea and a classic summer recipe
How to Feed a Loon

Psst! The secret to this chicken salad from How to Feed a Loon—besides fresh and simple ingredients—is that it uses rotisserie chicken. It makes the prep work extra easy and the result extra delicious. Enjoy it as a sandwich or on top of a bed of lettuce!

Mexican Bean Salad

Mexican bean salad is a good no-cook meal and one of the easiest cold dinner ideas
Canva

Now, this is our kind of cooking: the most work you’ll have to do for this Mexican-inspired salad is chopping and opening a few cans of beans. And since letting it sit helps the flavors meld together, it tastes even better the day after you make it. To get the recipe, click here.

Tomato Marinara Sauce

Heather Ford via Unsplash

Your mind will be blown when you try this tomato sauce that doesn’t require any cooking at all. Just throw all the ingredients into the blender or food processor and prepare to be impressed. Click here to grab the recipe.

Chicken Taco Pinwheels

chicken taco pinwheels are a good cold dinner idea and an easy summer recipe
Lisa’s Dinnertime Dish

These tasty pinwheels from Lisa’s Dinnertime Dish make the perfect lunch or light dinner. With an assist from a rotisserie chicken, a little spinach, and a sprinkling of taco seasoning, they’re as tasty as they are a healthy summer recipe. 

Related: 25 Cold Pasta Salad Recipes (because It’s Just Too Hot)

Crab Rolls

One of our favorite cold dinner ideas! Inspired by the classic lobster roll, you can make these with pre-cooked crab from the store. With a few other ingredients, you’ll have a no-cook meal ready in under 30 minutes. Click on the picture for this incredible summer recipe.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

chicken Caesar pasta salad recipe
Life Made Simple

What do you get when you combine pasta and Caesar salad? This dish from Life Made Simple! It’s loaded with all the classic flavors you expect—crisp romaine, pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and lots of cheese!

No Noodle Pad Thai

Cookie and Kate

It doesn’t get much more refreshing than this noodle-free pad Thai by Cookie and Kate. Fresh and crunchy veggies are coated with a sweet, tangy, slightly salty peanut sauce to make a fabulous light dinner.

Open Sandwich with Cold Cut Salad

no-cook meals
A Gourmet Food Blog

This Dutch recipe from A Gourmet Food Blog has all the makings of an instant kid favorite: crusty bread, lunchmeat, and a little mayo. It’s a fun way to take your bologna sandwich to the next level.

Rainbow Raw-maine Taco Boats

no-cook meals
Minimalist Baker

For a super fresh and satisfying dinner, you’ve got to try this fun take on taco boats from Minimalist Baker. Veggies are nestled into leaves of romaine, then it’s all drizzled with hummus and a creamy tahini sauce.

Bagel Toast

no-cook meals
The View from Great Island

When it’s too hot to contemplate cooking, a bagel bar is THE way to go. There are a million delicious ways you can layer them up, and the results can be as hearty and healthy as you want. Get inspired to make your own over at The View from Great Island.

 

Related: 14 Trader Joe’s Products Perfect for a Summer Cookout

Kiddie Cobb Salad

this kiddie cobb salad is a great cold dinner idea
Mom's Kitchen Handbook

Here’s a win-win idea from Mom’s Kitchen Handbook: skip the over-complicated summer meal and get the kids to eat more greens. They’ll love this cobb salad, which sports delicious add-ons like avocado, smoked turkey, and egg.

Mozzarella and Tomato Salad

Caprese salad is a classic summer recipe, a great cold dinner idea and a great no cook meal
Bryony Elena via Unsplash

When you need a summertime meal, keep it simple! Combine fresh mozzarella and tomatoes for an easy peasy, kid-approved salad. For the quick how-to, (courtesy of Chef Brendan Collins), click here.

Gouda Rollups

these cheese roll ups are an easy cold dinner ideas
Arla®

These rollups from Arla are a great way to change up a lunch routine or give your usual summertime dinner a new spin. Use your favorite cheese, add in some extra veggies for a healthy kick, and you’re good to go!

Antipasto Salad

no-cook meals
Dinner at the Zoo

Psst! Looking for a salad that won’t trigger your picky eater’s veggie radar? This no-cook meal from Dinner at the Zoo is loaded with meat, cheese, olives and yes, veggies, so it’s got a range of tasty ingredients. You can even top it off with a homemade Italian-style dressing!

Southwestern Veggie Hummus Wrap

hummus veggie wraps are one of the best cold dinner ideas and they are an easy summer recipe
Chelsea's Messy Apron

This delicious wrap idea from Chelsea’s Messy Apron is super flavorful and even includes hummus and a bunch of good-for-you vitamins and minerals. Eat it straight-up as a summertime salad or just have a tasty wrap for dinner!

Greek Salad

Jeffrey Betts/Unsplash

For a cold dinner idea that everyone will love, why not go the classic route of sweet tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta? This salad is a cinch for picky eaters—just arrange it on the table salad-bar style, which allows each family member to create their own unique dish. Snag the recipe for this no-cook meal here.

 

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