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Recent Posts

Manicotti Made Simple: Restaurant-Worthy Results at Home

Manicotti Made Simple: Restaurant-Worthy Results at Home

Today, I’m excited to share my take on a manicotti recipe inspired by my first job at an Italian restaurant. The dish was called cannelloni at the restaurant where it was made with pasta sheets and marinara sauce.  I changed the pasta sheets to pasta…

Ragu Napoletano Reimagined: A Fusion of Tradition and Creativity

Ragu Napoletano Reimagined: A Fusion of Tradition and Creativity

Savor the comforting richness of this reimagined Ragu Napoletano. This fusion dish stays true to the traditional slow-cooked flavors of Neapolitan ragu while adding a bold Italian-American flair, combining ground Italian sausage with whole links in a luscious tomato sauce. It’s a delicious celebration of…

Brined Slow Roasted Turkey

Brined Slow Roasted Turkey

After years of trial and error, this brined slow roasted turkey has become the showstopping centerpiece every Thanksgiving table deserves. Juicy, tender, and full of rich flavor, it’s the recipe that brings extraordinary turkey to your holiday feast. The Quest for a Better Turkey Welcome…

Slow Cooker Beef Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Meal for Cold Nights

Slow Cooker Beef Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Meal for Cold Nights

Warm up with a bowl of slow-cooked comfort! This hearty slow cooker beef stew, featuring tender beef chuck, chunky Yukon Gold potatoes, fresh celery, sweet carrots, and onions, is simmered to perfection with herbs and seasonings that take it to the next level. Ideal for…

From Ordinary to Indulgent: The Secret of Au Gratin Potatoes

From Ordinary to Indulgent: The Secret of Au Gratin Potatoes

Tender slices of potato enveloped in creamy, cheesy goodness with a crisp, golden topping make Au Gratin Potatoes an irresistible, indulgent treat.  They’re perfect for a Holiday or whenever you need something special. If I had to choose, I’d say Au Gratin Potatoes are hands-down…

Thanksgiving’s Unexpected Star: Pineapple Marshmallow Salad

Thanksgiving’s Unexpected Star: Pineapple Marshmallow Salad

This Pineapple Marshmallow Salad is a cherished family favorite that’s been bringing joy to our holiday tables for generations! Subtly sweet, light, and refreshing, this dish combines pineapple, mini marshmallows, eggs, and a hint of sugar for an irresistible taste. It’s the perfect way to…

The Most Decadent Custard Pie You’ll Ever Taste

The Most Decadent Custard Pie You’ll Ever Taste

With its creamy, egg-rich filling and hint of vanilla, this custard pie is a study in simplicity and decadence. Each bite is smooth and luscious, with a subtle sweetness that makes it perfect for those who love classic, understated desserts. Though we may never know…

The Perfect Cranberry Sauce to Brighten Your Holiday Table

The Perfect Cranberry Sauce to Brighten Your Holiday Table

This holiday cranberry sauce has it all—chunky cranberries, a balance of tart and sweet, and a blend of textures that make it a star on the holiday table. Pineapple brings a bright contrast, celery adds an unexpected crunch, and walnuts lend a satisfying bite. Most…

Giblet Sage Dressing

Giblet Sage Dressing

This giblet sage dressing holds a special place in my heart, woven into the memories of countless Thanksgivings spent with family. I can still picture my mother carefully preparing it, just as her mother and grandmother did before her. The aroma of fresh sage and…

Holiday Apple Crisp

Holiday Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is the ultimate comfort dessert, combining tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a golden, buttery oat crumble. Whether craving a cozy fall treat or planning a crowd-pleaser for your holiday table, this easy-to-make recipe is always a hit! As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s time to embrace…


This and That

Mastering Mise en Place: The Secret to Stress – Free Cooking

Mastering Mise en Place: The Secret to Stress – Free Cooking

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed every time you step into the kitchen? Mise en place, pronounced “meez ahn plahs,” is the answer to your culinary woes. This French term, meaning “everything in its place,” is a game-changing practice that can transform your cooking experience.…

The Ultimate Onion Guide

The Ultimate Onion Guide

Welcome to the wonderful world of the onion, where each variety holds the secret to transforming your meals from the ordinary to the extraordinary.  But the variety can be overwhelming—white, yellow, red, Vidalia, shallots, and scallions (green onions) each offer unique flavors and textures. If…