Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Adam Richman's Flavor Bomb Steak Chili and Heartburn-Friendly Chicken Pot Pie. Enjoy!
JOOK
This is from Mark Bittman in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, “I first encountered jook, also known as congee, in Hong Kong at dawn after a very long night. I was steered to an anonymous little place, where, I am quite sure, I was not the only person with a headache. It was there that I discovered that this savory Chinese rice porridge was among the world's best breakfasts, especially after a night of indulgence.
“It is transcendent stuff. You might think of it as Chinese risotto, though infinitely less pretentious. It is delightfully creamy, forgiving in its preparation and variable beyond belief.”
Time 2hours 30 minutes; Yield: 6 servings.
This was featured in “The Minimalist; From China, Hangover Help”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1839-jook.
Ingredients
1 cup short-grain rice
2 cups chicken stock, preferably homemade, or water
1 3-inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced
1/4 pound slab bacon, optional
Soy sauce or salt to taste
1/4 cup crispy cooked bacon, minced, optional
1/4 cup minced scallions
1/2 cup roasted peanuts, optional
Sesame oil for drizzling, optional
Preparation
Wash rice, and put it in a stock pot with chicken stock or water. Place over high heat until stock boils, then add about 4 cups water. Bring to a boil, and turn heat to low. Partly cover pot, simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally and adding water as necessary (probably about 2 cups more).
Add ginger and slab bacon, and simmer for an hour more or so. Jook should have a porridgelike consistency. If it becomes very thick, add water. When done, jook will be soupy and creamy, like loose oatmeal.
Remove slab bacon, and serve jook in individual bowls. Season with salt or soy sauce, then garnish with minced bacon, scallions and peanuts. Drizzle with sesame oil if desired.
MUSHROOM POTPIE
This is from Alexa Weibel, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Alexa wrote, “Dried porcini mushrooms and caramelized fresh mushrooms give this dish plenty of deep, earthy flavor. Sweet parsnips, garlicky kale, carrots and potatoes round out the mushroom filling, but if those don’t suit you, the filling is fully flexible. Substitute butternut squash, celery root or just about any root vegetable for the carrots, parsnips and potatoes. The entire dish cooks in a large ovenproof skillet, but you could also transfer the filling to buttered ramekins for individual pies, or divide the mixture between two 8-inch pie dishes for two separate pies. Rich and creamy, it feeds a crowd, and can easily be prepared in advance: Refrigerate the cooked filling overnight, then warm it on the stovetop, assemble and bake. The results justify the effort.”
Yield: 6 servings; Time: 1 1/2 hours.
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020731-mushroom-potpie.
Ingredients
1/2 cup dried porcini mushrooms (1/2 ounce)
4 tablespoons olive oil, plus more as needed
1/2 pound fresh oyster mushrooms, torn into separate pieces (or shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and halved)
Kosher salt and black pepper
1/2 pound cremini mushrooms, stemmed and quartered (or cut into sixths if large)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
1/4 pound lacinato kale, stemmed, leaves thinly sliced crosswise
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup diced peeled carrots (from 2 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 cup diced peeled parsnips (from 2 medium parsnips, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 cup diced red potatoes (from 2 small potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 (14- to 16-ounce) package puff pastry, thawed
1 large egg
Preparation
Heat oven to 425 degrees. Bring 2 cups of water to boil in a small pot. Place the porcini mushrooms in a medium bowl and pour the boiling water on top; set aside to soak and soften.
Meanwhile, in a large (12-inch) ovenproof skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high. Working in two batches so the mushrooms brown evenly, add half the oyster mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and cook, undisturbed, until browned underneath, about 3 minutes. Stir the mushrooms, then continue to cook until browned all over, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl. Repeat with 2 tablespoons oil and the remaining oyster mushrooms; transfer them to the medium bowl. Add another 2 tablespoons oil, then add the cremini mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and tender, 6 to 8 minutes, lowering the heat as needed to avoid burning. Transfer to the bowl.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once the butter is melted, add the onion and cook until starting to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the kale, garlic, thyme and rosemary, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes, adding 1 to 2 tablespoons oil if the pan seems dry. Sprinkle with the flour and cook, stirring, until flour is dispersed and lightly toasted, 2 minutes.
Stirring constantly, gradually add the stock, cream and 3/4 cup of the liquid from the soaking porcini mushrooms. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and the sautéed mushrooms and any accumulated juices. Strain the soaked porcini mushrooms, discarding any remaining liquid, then roughly chop the mushrooms and stir them into the filling. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (If making ahead, the filling can be refrigerated a day in advance; just warm it up slightly before assembling and baking.)
On a lightly dusted work surface using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll out the puff pastry into a roughly 14-inch circle. Transfer to the top of the skillet, allowing slight overhang, folding under and pinching any overhang just below the rim of the skillet. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 teaspoon water. Lightly brush the egg wash over the top of the puff pastry, then cut 5 (2-inch) slits into the puff pastry, starting near the center and radiating outward, like the rays of the sun, or create a stripe or crisscross pattern in the puff pastry by gently scoring it with a paring knife without fully cutting through. Crimp the edges using the tines of a fork, if desired.
Set the skillet on top of an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet and transfer to the middle rack of the oven. Bake until the puff pastry is puffed and golden, about 30 minutes. Let sit 10 minutes before serving.
HEARTBURN-FRIENDLY CHICKEN POT PIE
This is from Sharon Gillson, who wrote for Verywell Health. Sharon wrote, "This delicious and indulgent chicken pot pie recipe is made from scratch with heartburn-friendly ingredients, including skinless chicken breasts and skim milk.
"Foods with a high-fat content are typically the culprit affecting those with heartburn. This low-fat recipe puts chicken pot pie back on the menu."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, click here.
Note: Check out the More About Chicken Pot Pie and Pot Pie History at the end of the recipe; they're from Sharon.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup frozen carrots, thawed and drained
1 cup frozen peas, thawed and drained
1 (14.75-ounce) can cream-style corn
3/4 cup skim milk, divided into 1/4 cup and 1/2 cup portions
1 cup biscuit mix
Directions
Heat oven to 400 degrees F.
Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the 1 pound of salted chicken breast cubes and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until browned.
Place chicken into a 3-quart baking dish, and add 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained carrots, 1 cup.
Cover and bake for 25 minutes.
In a mixing bowl combine 1 cup biscuit mix and remaining 1/2 cup of skim milk. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Remove baking dish from oven and uncover.
Spoon dough onto chicken and vegetables with a tablespoon and spread evenly to cover entire surface of chicken mixture.
Bake uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
More About Chicken Pot Pie
“Chicken pot pie is comfort food at its best. It's the perfect vehicle for leftover roast or grilled chicken and vegetables mixed with gravy or sauce. Where one can get into trouble is the crust. Typically, high-fat pie dough or puffed pastry crusts are used, which can cause problems for heartburn sufferers. This recipe is a lighter version.”
Pot Pie History
“Meat pot pies go back to the Roman Empire where they were served at lavish banquets, sometimes with live birds under the crust (remember "four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie"?).
“16th-century English gentry continued the custom of meat pies made with pork, lamb, game, and birds. This meat pie craze spread to the New World with early settlers who eventually took them to the West where they have become firmly entrenched in the U.S. culinary repertoire.
“Some say English pasties, favored by Cornish tin miners, is actually a portable version of a classic pot pie. You decide.”
ADAM RICHMAN'S FLAVOR BOMB STEAK CHILI
This comes from Adam Richman on Today's website. Adam wrote, "My local bar in Brooklyn, New York hosts a chili cook-off every Super Bowl. One year, a guy brought in chili with chunks of steak in it instead of the traditional ground beef. Even though his chili didn't win, the texture alone, even the novelty of having huge chunks of steak in it, made his stand out. Plus, with the sweetness and richness of the flavors created by the combination of cocoa, oyster sauce, coffee and the umami bomb that is Maggi seasoning, this chili will be one that people will remember for a long time.
“Technique tip: if you see her any meat with very savory seasonings, make sure to deglaze the bottom of the pan with stock, alcohol or some kind of liquid to create a depth of flavor. For a slightly thicker chili, you can stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of corn flour.
“Swap option: You can use serrano chilies instead of jalapeños or a combination of both. You can also add 5-8 drops of liquid smoke."
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 2 hours; Servings: 6 - 8
To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/adam-richman-s-flavor-bomb-steak-chili-recipe-t172165.
Ingredients
Extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 pounds of beef for stew, cut into roughly 1-inch chunks
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 large white onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, roughly smashed and chopped
3 jalapeños, two of them chopped and seeded, one of them only chopped, retaining seeds for extra heat
2 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
3 1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce
5 tablespoons tomato paste
Two 32-ounce containers beef stock
Two 15-ounce cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed with cool water
One 10-ounce can chopped tomatoes
2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
1 cup strong black coffee
To serve
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Crumbled cornbread
Sliced jalapeños
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Preparation
Preheat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat with 2-3 tablespoons of oil.
Liberally season the steak with salt and pepper. Working in batches, sear the cubes of meat completely on all sides. Use tongs to place meat and don't overcrowd pan. When they are browned, remove meat from Dutch oven using tongs and let it rest on a towel-lined plate.
Add a little bit more oil to the Dutch oven, and then add the onion, garlic and jalapeños.
When the onion begins to soften add all the spices. Stir thoroughly. After about 1-2 minutes, add the oyster sauce and the tomato paste. Stir thoroughly.
After cooking for roughly 2 minutes, add all the beef stock and stir, making sure you scrape all of the caramelized bits of oyster sauce, spices and tomato paste off the bottom of the pan.
Then add the beans, tomatoes, cocoa, coffee and reserved beef. Stir to combine thoroughly and reduce heat to low bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover, and cook for two hours or until desired consistency is achieved.
Serve hot with the garnishes of your choice.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
BEST BEEF STROGANOFF
This is from Bri22 on Food. Time: 35 minutes; Serves: 6 - 8
To view this online, click here..
Ingredients
1/2 cup minced onion
1 cup sour cream
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup butter
1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
canned mushroom stems and pieces, 2-3 cans, drained
1 (10-3/4 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (I always use the top name brand)
1 (12 ounce) bag egg noodles, cooked
Directions
Sauté onion and garlic in butter over medium heat.
Stir in ground beef and brown stir in flour, salt, mushrooms, and pepper cook 5 minutes, then stir in soup. Simmer uncovered 10 minutes.
Stir in sour cream until heated. Serve over noodles.
Showing posts with label Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes and Cheese. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes and Cheese. Show all posts
Monday, October 26, 2026
Thursday, October 15, 2026
Casseroles
There's something comforting about Casseroles. They taste great, they're a good way to use leftovers (though you can definitely make a great casserole from scratch without leftovers), and they're frequently a one-pot deal.
There is the from scratch without leftovers story that you may have read in previous casserole posts. It goes like this: When my maternal grandparents were newly-weds, my grandfather invited his boss home for dinner. My grandmother had gotten rave reviews about her chicken casserole, to the point that whenever their church or any other group had a potluck dinner, people would request that she bring along her chicken casserole. It needed, among other ingredients, an entire chicken; no left-overs here!
So, for grandpa's boss, it was grandma's chicken casserole. Unfortunately, the boss made the mistake of thinking that the casserole was a left-overs dish, and stated, "If you knew your husband was bringing home the boss, you might have fixed something better than left-overs!"
To say that the comment was not kindly taken was an understatement. Grandma was off and running her mouth, informing him that she'd had to go out and buy a fresh chicken that morning for the casserole. (This was at a time when chicken was expensive enough that it was usually saved for Sunday dinner, or special occasions - like the boss coming for a meal.)
Fortunately, the boss apologized, tasted the casserole, and was impressed.
Grandma and Grandpa
Unfortunately, while today's post starts with Grandma's Chicken Casserole, it isn't the one that my grandmother used. I never got a copy of her recipe; I wish I had a copy of it! However, check out the Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes and Cheese, the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, and the rest of today's offerings. Enjoy!
GRANDMA'S CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "When it comes to weeknight dinner, casseroles are king. This super-simple, five-ingredient chicken casserole recipe comes together quickly and bakes up beautifully. It’s sure to be your quick-meal go to for at-home dinners and a reliable favorite for bake-and-take potluck dinners."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 cups chopped cooked chicken
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (8 oz)
3 cups Progresso™ plain panko crispy bread crumbs
6 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Place chicken evenly in bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish. Spoon and spread soup evenly over chicken; sprinkle with cheese.
In medium bowl, stir bread crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle over cheese. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread crumbs are golden brown and thoroughly heated.
Tips from the Betty Crocker Kitchens
tip 1
Your grandma probably didn’t use panko bread crumbs, which are crispy crumbs used in Japanese cooking. But she’d definitely embrace them if she were given a box. Panko makes topping a casserole quick and ensures there’s good texture and contrast to the creamy center of the hot dish.
tip 2
Leftover roast turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe—especially the day after Thanksgiving.
tip 3
Sub in crispy French-fried onions to top the casserole or try Colby-Monterey Jack cheese blend instead of cheddar cheese.
EASY ENCHILADA CASSEROLE
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Cook up a family-pleasing Tex-Mex dinner in just 30 minutes with our recipe for Easy Enchilada Casserole. This casserole is full of hearty ground beef and lots of Southwestern ingredients, like corn, bean, and peppers. It's one dinner they're going to ask you to make over and over again!"
Cook Time: 30 minutes; Serves: 6; Serving Size: 1 cup
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Beef/Easy-Enchilada-Casserole-101.
Ingredients
1 pound extra lean ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 (15-1/2-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce
8 (6-inch) no-salt-added, corn tortillas, cut into wedges
1 cup reduced fat shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, saute beef, onion, and bell pepper 5 to 7 minutes, or until beef is no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Stir in beans, corn, chili powder, and cumin.
Spread half of tomato sauce on bottom of baking dish. Top with half the tortilla wedges, half the beef mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat layers with remaining sauce, tortilla wedges, and beef mixture.
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes, or until heated through. Uncover and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake 5 to 10 more minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Notes
If you'd like, you can top each serving with a bit of fresh salsa and some fat-free sour cream.
SAUSAGE AND EGG CASSROLE
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "This Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty way to start your day right! Packed with bold and delicious flavors, this breakfast casserole is perfect not only for you, but for the entire family. They won't be able to get enough! Everyone will be asking you to make this delicious Sausage and Egg Casserole on Sunday morning. Bring it to the next potluck and everyone will be begging you for the recipe."
Cook Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 6; Serving Size: 1 slice
Ingredients
1 teaspoon canola oil
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
1 cup turkey sausage crumbles
6 eggs
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat oil until hot; saute onion, green pepper, tomatoes, and turkey sausage, 5 minutes; set aside.
Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk eggs, Italian seasoning, and black pepper; stir in the cheese. Add vegetables and turkey mixture to the egg mixture; mix well. Pour mixture into pie plate.
Bake 25 to 28 minutes or until set in center. Slice and serve immediately.
CHICKEN BACON RANCH CASSEROLE
This is from the Pillsbury emailing list. It begins, "Level up your casserole game in the easiest way with a yummy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Simple, hearty and guaranteed to please, this creamy chicken pasta dish will have the whole family asking for seconds. Prep your casserole in just 20 minutes, then let your oven do all the heavy lifting—this chicken bacon ranch pasta bake is the definition of comfort food!"
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 45; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 lb penne pasta, cooked and drained
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo pasta sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
6 slices chopped cooked bacon
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz)
Chopped parsley, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray 13x9-inch pan.
In large bowl, place 1 lb cooked and drained penne pasta, 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo pasta sauce and 1/2 cup ranch dressing. Stir to combine. Pour mixture in pan; spread evenly.
Sprinkle 6 slices chopped cooked bacon evenly over top, then sprinkle with 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz).
Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Tips from the Pillsbury Kitchens
tip 1
Don't skimp on the optional sprinkle of chopped parsley. It adds bright color and a fresh taste to your bacon ranch chicken bake.
Tip 2
If you don't have any leftover chicken, pick up a rotisserie chicken at your grocery store. A 2-lb bird will provide about 3 cups of meat.
Tip 3
To add a more distinct cheesy flavor to your chicken bacon casserole, use cheddar cheese instead of the mozzarella.
Tip 4
You can use any short pasta, including fusilli or rotini, in this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole recipe. The short noodles make the casserole easy to scoop up and serve.
MASHED POTATO CASSEROLE
This yumminess is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Melissa wrote, "This casserole may upset some mashed potato purists, but take heart: one bite and they'll be won over. The genius of this recipe, besides its utter deliciousness, is that it can be made the day before, or even two. Cook the potatoes, assemble the casserole, wrap tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When dinnertime comes, dust it with the cheese, butter and bread crumbs and bake the whole thing off. (And for everything you need to know to make perfect potatoes, visit our potato guide.) Discover more ideas for the big day in our best Thanksgiving recipes collection."
Total Time: 40 minutes plus 30 minutes' baking; Yield: 12 to 14 servings
This was featured in "What Can I Prepare Before the Actual Day of Thanksgiving?", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1013923-mashed-potato-casserole.
You might also want to check out "Melisa Clark's Thanksgiving" and Julia Moskin's guide, "How to Cook Potatoes."
One last thing: If you haven't already signed up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more.
Ingredients
14 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, and more for the pan
6 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon kosher salt
1-1/2 cups sour cream
1 teaspoon black pepper
6 tablespoons finely chopped chives
2/3 cup bread crumbs
2/3 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Preparation
Lightly grease a 9-inch-by-13-inch baking pan.
In a large pot, bring the potatoes, 4 quarts water and 2 tablespoons salt to a boil. Boil potatoes until fork tender, about 20 minutes. Drain.
Mash potatoes with 10 tablespoons butter, sour cream, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Mash in the chives. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Spread potatoes into the prepared pan. Cover and refrigerate for up to three days.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 4 tablespoons butter, bread crumbs and cheese. Mix together until it forms coarse crumbs. Crumbs can be refrigerated for three days.
Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Sprinkle crumbs over the top of the potato casserole and bake until golden and crisp, 30 to 40 minutes.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
There is the from scratch without leftovers story that you may have read in previous casserole posts. It goes like this: When my maternal grandparents were newly-weds, my grandfather invited his boss home for dinner. My grandmother had gotten rave reviews about her chicken casserole, to the point that whenever their church or any other group had a potluck dinner, people would request that she bring along her chicken casserole. It needed, among other ingredients, an entire chicken; no left-overs here!
So, for grandpa's boss, it was grandma's chicken casserole. Unfortunately, the boss made the mistake of thinking that the casserole was a left-overs dish, and stated, "If you knew your husband was bringing home the boss, you might have fixed something better than left-overs!"
To say that the comment was not kindly taken was an understatement. Grandma was off and running her mouth, informing him that she'd had to go out and buy a fresh chicken that morning for the casserole. (This was at a time when chicken was expensive enough that it was usually saved for Sunday dinner, or special occasions - like the boss coming for a meal.)
Fortunately, the boss apologized, tasted the casserole, and was impressed.
Grandma and Grandpa
Unfortunately, while today's post starts with Grandma's Chicken Casserole, it isn't the one that my grandmother used. I never got a copy of her recipe; I wish I had a copy of it! However, check out the Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes and Cheese, the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, and the rest of today's offerings. Enjoy!
GRANDMA'S CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "When it comes to weeknight dinner, casseroles are king. This super-simple, five-ingredient chicken casserole recipe comes together quickly and bakes up beautifully. It’s sure to be your quick-meal go to for at-home dinners and a reliable favorite for bake-and-take potluck dinners."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 cups chopped cooked chicken
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (8 oz)
3 cups Progresso™ plain panko crispy bread crumbs
6 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Place chicken evenly in bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish. Spoon and spread soup evenly over chicken; sprinkle with cheese.
In medium bowl, stir bread crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle over cheese. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread crumbs are golden brown and thoroughly heated.
Tips from the Betty Crocker Kitchens
tip 1
Your grandma probably didn’t use panko bread crumbs, which are crispy crumbs used in Japanese cooking. But she’d definitely embrace them if she were given a box. Panko makes topping a casserole quick and ensures there’s good texture and contrast to the creamy center of the hot dish.
tip 2
Leftover roast turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe—especially the day after Thanksgiving.
tip 3
Sub in crispy French-fried onions to top the casserole or try Colby-Monterey Jack cheese blend instead of cheddar cheese.
EASY ENCHILADA CASSEROLE
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Cook up a family-pleasing Tex-Mex dinner in just 30 minutes with our recipe for Easy Enchilada Casserole. This casserole is full of hearty ground beef and lots of Southwestern ingredients, like corn, bean, and peppers. It's one dinner they're going to ask you to make over and over again!"
Cook Time: 30 minutes; Serves: 6; Serving Size: 1 cup
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Beef/Easy-Enchilada-Casserole-101.
Ingredients
1 pound extra lean ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 (15-1/2-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce
8 (6-inch) no-salt-added, corn tortillas, cut into wedges
1 cup reduced fat shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, saute beef, onion, and bell pepper 5 to 7 minutes, or until beef is no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Stir in beans, corn, chili powder, and cumin.
Spread half of tomato sauce on bottom of baking dish. Top with half the tortilla wedges, half the beef mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat layers with remaining sauce, tortilla wedges, and beef mixture.
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes, or until heated through. Uncover and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake 5 to 10 more minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Notes
If you'd like, you can top each serving with a bit of fresh salsa and some fat-free sour cream.
SAUSAGE AND EGG CASSROLE
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "This Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty way to start your day right! Packed with bold and delicious flavors, this breakfast casserole is perfect not only for you, but for the entire family. They won't be able to get enough! Everyone will be asking you to make this delicious Sausage and Egg Casserole on Sunday morning. Bring it to the next potluck and everyone will be begging you for the recipe."
Cook Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 6; Serving Size: 1 slice
Ingredients
1 teaspoon canola oil
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
1 cup turkey sausage crumbles
6 eggs
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat oil until hot; saute onion, green pepper, tomatoes, and turkey sausage, 5 minutes; set aside.
Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk eggs, Italian seasoning, and black pepper; stir in the cheese. Add vegetables and turkey mixture to the egg mixture; mix well. Pour mixture into pie plate.
Bake 25 to 28 minutes or until set in center. Slice and serve immediately.
CHICKEN BACON RANCH CASSEROLE
This is from the Pillsbury emailing list. It begins, "Level up your casserole game in the easiest way with a yummy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Simple, hearty and guaranteed to please, this creamy chicken pasta dish will have the whole family asking for seconds. Prep your casserole in just 20 minutes, then let your oven do all the heavy lifting—this chicken bacon ranch pasta bake is the definition of comfort food!"
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 45; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 lb penne pasta, cooked and drained
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo pasta sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
6 slices chopped cooked bacon
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz)
Chopped parsley, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray 13x9-inch pan.
In large bowl, place 1 lb cooked and drained penne pasta, 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo pasta sauce and 1/2 cup ranch dressing. Stir to combine. Pour mixture in pan; spread evenly.
Sprinkle 6 slices chopped cooked bacon evenly over top, then sprinkle with 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz).
Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Tips from the Pillsbury Kitchens
tip 1
Don't skimp on the optional sprinkle of chopped parsley. It adds bright color and a fresh taste to your bacon ranch chicken bake.
Tip 2
If you don't have any leftover chicken, pick up a rotisserie chicken at your grocery store. A 2-lb bird will provide about 3 cups of meat.
Tip 3
To add a more distinct cheesy flavor to your chicken bacon casserole, use cheddar cheese instead of the mozzarella.
Tip 4
You can use any short pasta, including fusilli or rotini, in this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole recipe. The short noodles make the casserole easy to scoop up and serve.
MASHED POTATO CASSEROLE
This yumminess is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Melissa wrote, "This casserole may upset some mashed potato purists, but take heart: one bite and they'll be won over. The genius of this recipe, besides its utter deliciousness, is that it can be made the day before, or even two. Cook the potatoes, assemble the casserole, wrap tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When dinnertime comes, dust it with the cheese, butter and bread crumbs and bake the whole thing off. (And for everything you need to know to make perfect potatoes, visit our potato guide.) Discover more ideas for the big day in our best Thanksgiving recipes collection."
Total Time: 40 minutes plus 30 minutes' baking; Yield: 12 to 14 servings
This was featured in "What Can I Prepare Before the Actual Day of Thanksgiving?", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1013923-mashed-potato-casserole.
You might also want to check out "Melisa Clark's Thanksgiving" and Julia Moskin's guide, "How to Cook Potatoes."
One last thing: If you haven't already signed up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more.
Ingredients
14 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, and more for the pan
6 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon kosher salt
1-1/2 cups sour cream
1 teaspoon black pepper
6 tablespoons finely chopped chives
2/3 cup bread crumbs
2/3 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Preparation
Lightly grease a 9-inch-by-13-inch baking pan.
In a large pot, bring the potatoes, 4 quarts water and 2 tablespoons salt to a boil. Boil potatoes until fork tender, about 20 minutes. Drain.
Mash potatoes with 10 tablespoons butter, sour cream, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Mash in the chives. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Spread potatoes into the prepared pan. Cover and refrigerate for up to three days.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 4 tablespoons butter, bread crumbs and cheese. Mix together until it forms coarse crumbs. Crumbs can be refrigerated for three days.
Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Sprinkle crumbs over the top of the potato casserole and bake until golden and crisp, 30 to 40 minutes.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Casseroles
Many of us grew up thinking that Casseroles are a great way to use up leftovers. While they really are, they are also wonderful comfort food, as far as I'm concerned. Seriously, I do love casseroles.
If you have a thing for casseroles, too, then today's post is sure to please. Check out the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, the Sweet Potato Casserole, and the rest of today's recipes. Enjoy!
CHICKEN NOODLE CASSEROLE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "Savor the comfort of chicken noodle soup in casserole form with this light, flavorful meal, best served with a side of crusty bread and a green salad."
Prep Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Servings:8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
12 oz uncooked wide egg noodles (about 7 cups)
1/4 cup butter
1 cup finely chopped celery
1 cup finely chopped onions
1 cup finely chopped carrots
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 cups Progresso™ chicken broth (from 32-oz carton)
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup Progresso™ Panko Italian style crispy bread crumbs
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped Italian (flat-leaf) parsley, if desired
Instructions
Heat oven to 350°F. Spray bottom and sides of 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. Cook and drain egg noodles as directed on package.
In 12-inch nonstick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. Cook celery, onions, carrots and garlic in butter 6 to 7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Add 2-1/2 cups of the chicken broth, the thyme, salt and pepper to skillet; heat to boiling. In small measuring cup, beat remaining 1/2 cup chicken broth and the flour with whisk. Stir into hot chicken broth mixture in skillet. Simmer and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat; stir in whipping cream and shredded chicken.
Add cooked egg noodles to baking dish; stir in chicken mixture until mixed well. Cover; bake 30 to 35 minutes or until casserole is heated through.
Meanwhile, in 8-inch nonstick skillet, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Cook bread crumbs in butter 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over baked casserole. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
NEIMAN MARCUS CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from AllRecipes, and begins, "This Neiman Marcus chicken casserole recipe is a casserole version of the famous department store's cafe dish. Saucy chicken, bacon, Cheddar, and almonds are baked with a buttery cracker topping in this quick-prep dinner."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Servings: 6 to 8; Yield: 1 (9x13-inch) casserole
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
4 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/2 cup slivered almonds
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1-1/2 teaspoons hot sauce, such as Tabasco® or to taste
1 sleeve buttery crackers, such as Ritz® crackers, crushed
1/2 cup butter, melted
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Place chicken, chicken soup, sour cream, cheese, green onions, almonds, bacon, and hot sauce into a large mixing bowl and stir to combine. Pour mixture into the prepared dish.
Stir crushed crackers and butter together until combined; spread mixture evenly over casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven until browned and bubbly, 40 to 45 minutes.
HOT CHICKEN SALAD CASSEROLE
This is from Better Homes and Gardens.
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Bake Time: 30 minutes; Stand Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr; Servings: 6
To view this online, go to https://www.bhg.com/recipe/hot-chicken-salad-casserole/.
Ingredients
3 cup cubed cooked chicken breast (about 1 pound)
2 stalks celery, sliced (1 cup)
1 large yellow or red sweet pepper, chopped (1 cup)
3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella cheese (3 ounces)
1 10.75 ounce can reduced-fat and reduced-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup
1 6 ounce carton plain low-fat yogurt
2 green onions, sliced (1/4 cup)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup crushed cornflakes
1/4 cup sliced almonds
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large bowl stir together chicken, celery, sweet pepper, cheese, soup, yogurt, green onions, lemon juice, and black pepper. Transfer to a 2-quart rectangular baking dish.
In a small bowl stir together cornflakes and almonds. Sprinkle evenly over chicken mixture.
Bake, uncovered, about 30 minutes or until heated through. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
This is from the Food Network kitchen, and begins, "This sweet potato casserole is sprinkled with a nutty crumb topping to create a pleasantly crunchy contrast to the creamy and soft mashed sweet potatoes down below. The filling gets an extra special pumpkin pie(ish) treatment with brown sugar and vanilla for a deep caramel flavor. (In fact, leftovers can be heated up and topped with a scoop of ice cream just like pie.) Want to make ahead for Thanksgiving or another special holiday? Not a problem. The casserole ingredients can be mixed and transferred to a baking dish. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake but leave off the topping. Store it separately at room temperature in an air-right container and sprinkle it on right before baking."
Active Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/sweet-potato-casserole-3364945.
Ingredients
Filling:
1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for buttering the baking dish
3 to 4 large sweet potatoes (about 1-3/4 pounds), peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 large eggs
Topping:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup chopped pecans
Directions
Special equipment: a 2-quart baking dish
For the sweet potatoes: Add 1-3/4 pounds peeled and cubed sweet potatoes to a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are very tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and cool. Mash the sweet potatoes.
For the filling: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 2-quart baking dish.
Whisk together the butter, mashed sweet potatoes, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, salt and eggs in a large bowl. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
For the topping: Combine the flour, brown sugar, butter and salt in a medium bowl until moist and the mixture clumps together. Stir in the pecans. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the sweet potatoes in an even layer. Bake until mostly set in the center and golden on top, 25 to 30 minutes. Serve hot.
STUFFED GRAPE LEAVES CASSEROLE
This comes from the January/February 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 51. It begins, “If you like stuffed grape leaves, you’ll love this casserole, which has all the flavors of the bite-size appetizers without all the rolling. You don’t have to parboil jarred grape leaves, but a quick dip in boiling water tenderizes them and removes some of their saltiness.” Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
30 jarred or fresh grape leaves
2 Tbs. olive oil, plus more for brushing top of casserole and casserole dish
1 large onion, finely diced (2 cups)
1 cup brown rice
2 cups low-sodium tomato juice or vegetable juice
1 cup chopped unsalted, hulled pistachios
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 cup chopped fresh mint
1 cup raisins or dried currants
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 lemon, sliced, for garnish
Pomegranate molasses, for drizzling, optional
Directions
Dip grape leaves in large pot of boiling water 2 minutes. Drain, and set aside.
Heat oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 7 to 10 minutes, or until beginning to brown. Add rice and 2-1/2 cups water, and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 30 to 40 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, and stir in tomato juice, pistachios, parsley, mint, raisins, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. (Mixture will be very wet.)
Preheat oven to 350°F. Brush 2-qt. baking dish with olive oil. Pat grape leaves dry. Line bottom and sides of baking dish with grape leaves, allowing leaves to hang over sides. Spread half of rice mixture over grape leaves. Top rice with more grape leaves, then top with remaining rice mixture. Cover casserole with remaining grape leaves, and seal by folding over grape leaves around edges. Brush top with olive oil. Bake 30 to 40 minutes, or until grape leaves on top darken and casserole looks firm and dry.
Dip knife in cold water. Cut straight down with tip of knife to make 8 servings, then remove servings with spatula. Garnish with lemon slices, and drizzle with pomegranate molasses (if using).
nutritional information Per 1 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 341; Protein: 8 g; Total Fat: 15 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 48 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 408 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 17 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
If you have a thing for casseroles, too, then today's post is sure to please. Check out the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, the Sweet Potato Casserole, and the rest of today's recipes. Enjoy!
CHICKEN NOODLE CASSEROLE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "Savor the comfort of chicken noodle soup in casserole form with this light, flavorful meal, best served with a side of crusty bread and a green salad."
Prep Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Servings:8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
12 oz uncooked wide egg noodles (about 7 cups)
1/4 cup butter
1 cup finely chopped celery
1 cup finely chopped onions
1 cup finely chopped carrots
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 cups Progresso™ chicken broth (from 32-oz carton)
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup Progresso™ Panko Italian style crispy bread crumbs
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped Italian (flat-leaf) parsley, if desired
Instructions
Heat oven to 350°F. Spray bottom and sides of 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. Cook and drain egg noodles as directed on package.
In 12-inch nonstick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. Cook celery, onions, carrots and garlic in butter 6 to 7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Add 2-1/2 cups of the chicken broth, the thyme, salt and pepper to skillet; heat to boiling. In small measuring cup, beat remaining 1/2 cup chicken broth and the flour with whisk. Stir into hot chicken broth mixture in skillet. Simmer and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat; stir in whipping cream and shredded chicken.
Add cooked egg noodles to baking dish; stir in chicken mixture until mixed well. Cover; bake 30 to 35 minutes or until casserole is heated through.
Meanwhile, in 8-inch nonstick skillet, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Cook bread crumbs in butter 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over baked casserole. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
NEIMAN MARCUS CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from AllRecipes, and begins, "This Neiman Marcus chicken casserole recipe is a casserole version of the famous department store's cafe dish. Saucy chicken, bacon, Cheddar, and almonds are baked with a buttery cracker topping in this quick-prep dinner."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Servings: 6 to 8; Yield: 1 (9x13-inch) casserole
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
4 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/2 cup slivered almonds
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1-1/2 teaspoons hot sauce, such as Tabasco® or to taste
1 sleeve buttery crackers, such as Ritz® crackers, crushed
1/2 cup butter, melted
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Place chicken, chicken soup, sour cream, cheese, green onions, almonds, bacon, and hot sauce into a large mixing bowl and stir to combine. Pour mixture into the prepared dish.
Stir crushed crackers and butter together until combined; spread mixture evenly over casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven until browned and bubbly, 40 to 45 minutes.
HOT CHICKEN SALAD CASSEROLE
This is from Better Homes and Gardens.
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Bake Time: 30 minutes; Stand Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr; Servings: 6
To view this online, go to https://www.bhg.com/recipe/hot-chicken-salad-casserole/.
Ingredients
3 cup cubed cooked chicken breast (about 1 pound)
2 stalks celery, sliced (1 cup)
1 large yellow or red sweet pepper, chopped (1 cup)
3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella cheese (3 ounces)
1 10.75 ounce can reduced-fat and reduced-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup
1 6 ounce carton plain low-fat yogurt
2 green onions, sliced (1/4 cup)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup crushed cornflakes
1/4 cup sliced almonds
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large bowl stir together chicken, celery, sweet pepper, cheese, soup, yogurt, green onions, lemon juice, and black pepper. Transfer to a 2-quart rectangular baking dish.
In a small bowl stir together cornflakes and almonds. Sprinkle evenly over chicken mixture.
Bake, uncovered, about 30 minutes or until heated through. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE
This is from the Food Network kitchen, and begins, "This sweet potato casserole is sprinkled with a nutty crumb topping to create a pleasantly crunchy contrast to the creamy and soft mashed sweet potatoes down below. The filling gets an extra special pumpkin pie(ish) treatment with brown sugar and vanilla for a deep caramel flavor. (In fact, leftovers can be heated up and topped with a scoop of ice cream just like pie.) Want to make ahead for Thanksgiving or another special holiday? Not a problem. The casserole ingredients can be mixed and transferred to a baking dish. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake but leave off the topping. Store it separately at room temperature in an air-right container and sprinkle it on right before baking."
Active Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/sweet-potato-casserole-3364945.
Ingredients
Filling:
1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for buttering the baking dish
3 to 4 large sweet potatoes (about 1-3/4 pounds), peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 large eggs
Topping:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 cup chopped pecans
Directions
Special equipment: a 2-quart baking dish
For the sweet potatoes: Add 1-3/4 pounds peeled and cubed sweet potatoes to a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are very tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and cool. Mash the sweet potatoes.
For the filling: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 2-quart baking dish.
Whisk together the butter, mashed sweet potatoes, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, salt and eggs in a large bowl. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
For the topping: Combine the flour, brown sugar, butter and salt in a medium bowl until moist and the mixture clumps together. Stir in the pecans. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the sweet potatoes in an even layer. Bake until mostly set in the center and golden on top, 25 to 30 minutes. Serve hot.
STUFFED GRAPE LEAVES CASSEROLE
This comes from the January/February 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 51. It begins, “If you like stuffed grape leaves, you’ll love this casserole, which has all the flavors of the bite-size appetizers without all the rolling. You don’t have to parboil jarred grape leaves, but a quick dip in boiling water tenderizes them and removes some of their saltiness.” Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
30 jarred or fresh grape leaves
2 Tbs. olive oil, plus more for brushing top of casserole and casserole dish
1 large onion, finely diced (2 cups)
1 cup brown rice
2 cups low-sodium tomato juice or vegetable juice
1 cup chopped unsalted, hulled pistachios
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 cup chopped fresh mint
1 cup raisins or dried currants
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 lemon, sliced, for garnish
Pomegranate molasses, for drizzling, optional
Directions
Dip grape leaves in large pot of boiling water 2 minutes. Drain, and set aside.
Heat oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 7 to 10 minutes, or until beginning to brown. Add rice and 2-1/2 cups water, and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 30 to 40 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, and stir in tomato juice, pistachios, parsley, mint, raisins, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. (Mixture will be very wet.)
Preheat oven to 350°F. Brush 2-qt. baking dish with olive oil. Pat grape leaves dry. Line bottom and sides of baking dish with grape leaves, allowing leaves to hang over sides. Spread half of rice mixture over grape leaves. Top rice with more grape leaves, then top with remaining rice mixture. Cover casserole with remaining grape leaves, and seal by folding over grape leaves around edges. Brush top with olive oil. Bake 30 to 40 minutes, or until grape leaves on top darken and casserole looks firm and dry.
Dip knife in cold water. Cut straight down with tip of knife to make 8 servings, then remove servings with spatula. Garnish with lemon slices, and drizzle with pomegranate molasses (if using).
nutritional information Per 1 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 341; Protein: 8 g; Total Fat: 15 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 48 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 408 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 17 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
Monday, September 28, 2026
Double-Post Monday
Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Adam Richman's Flavor Bomb Steak Chili and Heartburn-Friendly Chicken Pot Pie. Enjoy!
JOOK
This is from Mark Bittman in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, “I first encountered jook, also known as congee, in Hong Kong at dawn after a very long night. I was steered to an anonymous little place, where, I am quite sure, I was not the only person with a headache. It was there that I discovered that this savory Chinese rice porridge was among the world's best breakfasts, especially after a night of indulgence.
“It is transcendent stuff. You might think of it as Chinese risotto, though infinitely less pretentious. It is delightfully creamy, forgiving in its preparation and variable beyond belief.”
Time 2hours 30 minutes; Yield: 6 servings.
This was featured in “The Minimalist; From China, Hangover Help”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1839-jook.
Ingredients
1 cup short-grain rice
2 cups chicken stock, preferably homemade, or water
1 3-inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced
1/4 pound slab bacon, optional
Soy sauce or salt to taste
1/4 cup crispy cooked bacon, minced, optional
1/4 cup minced scallions
1/2 cup roasted peanuts, optional
Sesame oil for drizzling, optional
Preparation
Wash rice, and put it in a stock pot with chicken stock or water. Place over high heat until stock boils, then add about 4 cups water. Bring to a boil, and turn heat to low. Partly cover pot, simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally and adding water as necessary (probably about 2 cups more).
Add ginger and slab bacon, and simmer for an hour more or so. Jook should have a porridgelike consistency. If it becomes very thick, add water. When done, jook will be soupy and creamy, like loose oatmeal.
Remove slab bacon, and serve jook in individual bowls. Season with salt or soy sauce, then garnish with minced bacon, scallions and peanuts. Drizzle with sesame oil if desired.
MUSHROOM POTPIE
This is from Alexa Weibel, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Alexa wrote, “Dried porcini mushrooms and caramelized fresh mushrooms give this dish plenty of deep, earthy flavor. Sweet parsnips, garlicky kale, carrots and potatoes round out the mushroom filling, but if those don’t suit you, the filling is fully flexible. Substitute butternut squash, celery root or just about any root vegetable for the carrots, parsnips and potatoes. The entire dish cooks in a large ovenproof skillet, but you could also transfer the filling to buttered ramekins for individual pies, or divide the mixture between two 8-inch pie dishes for two separate pies. Rich and creamy, it feeds a crowd, and can easily be prepared in advance: Refrigerate the cooked filling overnight, then warm it on the stovetop, assemble and bake. The results justify the effort.”
Yield: 6 servings; Time: 1 1/2 hours.
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020731-mushroom-potpie.
Ingredients
1/2 cup dried porcini mushrooms (1/2 ounce)
4 tablespoons olive oil, plus more as needed
1/2 pound fresh oyster mushrooms, torn into separate pieces (or shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and halved)
Kosher salt and black pepper
1/2 pound cremini mushrooms, stemmed and quartered (or cut into sixths if large)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
1/4 pound lacinato kale, stemmed, leaves thinly sliced crosswise
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup diced peeled carrots (from 2 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 cup diced peeled parsnips (from 2 medium parsnips, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 cup diced red potatoes (from 2 small potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 (14- to 16-ounce) package puff pastry, thawed
1 large egg
Preparation
Heat oven to 425 degrees. Bring 2 cups of water to boil in a small pot. Place the porcini mushrooms in a medium bowl and pour the boiling water on top; set aside to soak and soften.
Meanwhile, in a large (12-inch) ovenproof skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high. Working in two batches so the mushrooms brown evenly, add half the oyster mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and cook, undisturbed, until browned underneath, about 3 minutes. Stir the mushrooms, then continue to cook until browned all over, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl. Repeat with 2 tablespoons oil and the remaining oyster mushrooms; transfer them to the medium bowl. Add another 2 tablespoons oil, then add the cremini mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and tender, 6 to 8 minutes, lowering the heat as needed to avoid burning. Transfer to the bowl.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once the butter is melted, add the onion and cook until starting to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the kale, garlic, thyme and rosemary, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes, adding 1 to 2 tablespoons oil if the pan seems dry. Sprinkle with the flour and cook, stirring, until flour is dispersed and lightly toasted, 2 minutes.
Stirring constantly, gradually add the stock, cream and 3/4 cup of the liquid from the soaking porcini mushrooms. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and the sautéed mushrooms and any accumulated juices. Strain the soaked porcini mushrooms, discarding any remaining liquid, then roughly chop the mushrooms and stir them into the filling. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (If making ahead, the filling can be refrigerated a day in advance; just warm it up slightly before assembling and baking.)
On a lightly dusted work surface using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll out the puff pastry into a roughly 14-inch circle. Transfer to the top of the skillet, allowing slight overhang, folding under and pinching any overhang just below the rim of the skillet. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 teaspoon water. Lightly brush the egg wash over the top of the puff pastry, then cut 5 (2-inch) slits into the puff pastry, starting near the center and radiating outward, like the rays of the sun, or create a stripe or crisscross pattern in the puff pastry by gently scoring it with a paring knife without fully cutting through. Crimp the edges using the tines of a fork, if desired.
Set the skillet on top of an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet and transfer to the middle rack of the oven. Bake until the puff pastry is puffed and golden, about 30 minutes. Let sit 10 minutes before serving.
HEARTBURN-FRIENDLY CHICKEN POT PIE
This is from Sharon Gillson, who wrote for Verywell Health. Sharon wrote, "This delicious and indulgent chicken pot pie recipe is made from scratch with heartburn-friendly ingredients, including skinless chicken breasts and skim milk.
"Foods with a high-fat content are typically the culprit affecting those with heartburn. This low-fat recipe puts chicken pot pie back on the menu."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, click here.
Note: Check out the More About Chicken Pot Pie and Pot Pie History at the end of the recipe; they're from Sharon.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup frozen carrots, thawed and drained
1 cup frozen peas, thawed and drained
1 (14.75-ounce) can cream-style corn
3/4 cup skim milk, divided into 1/4 cup and 1/2 cup portions
1 cup biscuit mix
Directions
Heat oven to 400 degrees F.
Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the 1 pound of salted chicken breast cubes and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until browned.
Place chicken into a 3-quart baking dish, and add 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained carrots, 1 cup.
Cover and bake for 25 minutes.
In a mixing bowl combine 1 cup biscuit mix and remaining 1/2 cup of skim milk. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Remove baking dish from oven and uncover.
Spoon dough onto chicken and vegetables with a tablespoon and spread evenly to cover entire surface of chicken mixture.
Bake uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
More About Chicken Pot Pie
“Chicken pot pie is comfort food at its best. It's the perfect vehicle for leftover roast or grilled chicken and vegetables mixed with gravy or sauce. Where one can get into trouble is the crust. Typically, high-fat pie dough or puffed pastry crusts are used, which can cause problems for heartburn sufferers. This recipe is a lighter version.”
Pot Pie History
“Meat pot pies go back to the Roman Empire where they were served at lavish banquets, sometimes with live birds under the crust (remember "four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie"?).
“16th-century English gentry continued the custom of meat pies made with pork, lamb, game, and birds. This meat pie craze spread to the New World with early settlers who eventually took them to the West where they have become firmly entrenched in the U.S. culinary repertoire.
“Some say English pasties, favored by Cornish tin miners, is actually a portable version of a classic pot pie. You decide.”
ADAM RICHMAN'S FLAVOR BOMB STEAK CHILI
This comes from Adam Richman on Today's website. Adam wrote, "My local bar in Brooklyn, New York hosts a chili cook-off every Super Bowl. One year, a guy brought in chili with chunks of steak in it instead of the traditional ground beef. Even though his chili didn't win, the texture alone, even the novelty of having huge chunks of steak in it, made his stand out. Plus, with the sweetness and richness of the flavors created by the combination of cocoa, oyster sauce, coffee and the umami bomb that is Maggi seasoning, this chili will be one that people will remember for a long time.
“Technique tip: if you see her any meat with very savory seasonings, make sure to deglaze the bottom of the pan with stock, alcohol or some kind of liquid to create a depth of flavor. For a slightly thicker chili, you can stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of corn flour.
“Swap option: You can use serrano chilies instead of jalapeños or a combination of both. You can also add 5-8 drops of liquid smoke."
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 2 hours; Servings: 6 - 8
To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/adam-richman-s-flavor-bomb-steak-chili-recipe-t172165.
Ingredients
Extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 pounds of beef for stew, cut into roughly 1-inch chunks
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 large white onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, roughly smashed and chopped
3 jalapeños, two of them chopped and seeded, one of them only chopped, retaining seeds for extra heat
2 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
3 1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce
5 tablespoons tomato paste
Two 32-ounce containers beef stock
Two 15-ounce cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed with cool water
One 10-ounce can chopped tomatoes
2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
1 cup strong black coffee
To serve
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Crumbled cornbread
Sliced jalapeños
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Preparation
Preheat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat with 2-3 tablespoons of oil.
Liberally season the steak with salt and pepper. Working in batches, sear the cubes of meat completely on all sides. Use tongs to place meat and don't overcrowd pan. When they are browned, remove meat from Dutch oven using tongs and let it rest on a towel-lined plate.
Add a little bit more oil to the Dutch oven, and then add the onion, garlic and jalapeños.
When the onion begins to soften add all the spices. Stir thoroughly. After about 1-2 minutes, add the oyster sauce and the tomato paste. Stir thoroughly.
After cooking for roughly 2 minutes, add all the beef stock and stir, making sure you scrape all of the caramelized bits of oyster sauce, spices and tomato paste off the bottom of the pan.
Then add the beans, tomatoes, cocoa, coffee and reserved beef. Stir to combine thoroughly and reduce heat to low bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover, and cook for two hours or until desired consistency is achieved.
Serve hot with the garnishes of your choice.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
BEST BEEF STROGANOFF
This is from Bri22 on Food. Time: 35 minutes; Serves: 6 - 8
To view this online, click here..
Ingredients
1/2 cup minced onion
1 cup sour cream
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup butter
1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
canned mushroom stems and pieces, 2-3 cans, drained
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (I always use the top name brand)
1 (12 ounce) bag egg noodles, cooked
Directions
Sauté onion and garlic in butter over medium heat.
Stir in ground beef and brown stir in flour, salt, mushrooms, and pepper cook 5 minutes, then stir in soup. Simmer uncovered 10 minutes.
Stir in sour cream until heated. Serve over noodles.
JOOK
This is from Mark Bittman in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, “I first encountered jook, also known as congee, in Hong Kong at dawn after a very long night. I was steered to an anonymous little place, where, I am quite sure, I was not the only person with a headache. It was there that I discovered that this savory Chinese rice porridge was among the world's best breakfasts, especially after a night of indulgence.
“It is transcendent stuff. You might think of it as Chinese risotto, though infinitely less pretentious. It is delightfully creamy, forgiving in its preparation and variable beyond belief.”
Time 2hours 30 minutes; Yield: 6 servings.
This was featured in “The Minimalist; From China, Hangover Help”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1839-jook.
Ingredients
1 cup short-grain rice
2 cups chicken stock, preferably homemade, or water
1 3-inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced
1/4 pound slab bacon, optional
Soy sauce or salt to taste
1/4 cup crispy cooked bacon, minced, optional
1/4 cup minced scallions
1/2 cup roasted peanuts, optional
Sesame oil for drizzling, optional
Preparation
Wash rice, and put it in a stock pot with chicken stock or water. Place over high heat until stock boils, then add about 4 cups water. Bring to a boil, and turn heat to low. Partly cover pot, simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally and adding water as necessary (probably about 2 cups more).
Add ginger and slab bacon, and simmer for an hour more or so. Jook should have a porridgelike consistency. If it becomes very thick, add water. When done, jook will be soupy and creamy, like loose oatmeal.
Remove slab bacon, and serve jook in individual bowls. Season with salt or soy sauce, then garnish with minced bacon, scallions and peanuts. Drizzle with sesame oil if desired.
MUSHROOM POTPIE
This is from Alexa Weibel, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Alexa wrote, “Dried porcini mushrooms and caramelized fresh mushrooms give this dish plenty of deep, earthy flavor. Sweet parsnips, garlicky kale, carrots and potatoes round out the mushroom filling, but if those don’t suit you, the filling is fully flexible. Substitute butternut squash, celery root or just about any root vegetable for the carrots, parsnips and potatoes. The entire dish cooks in a large ovenproof skillet, but you could also transfer the filling to buttered ramekins for individual pies, or divide the mixture between two 8-inch pie dishes for two separate pies. Rich and creamy, it feeds a crowd, and can easily be prepared in advance: Refrigerate the cooked filling overnight, then warm it on the stovetop, assemble and bake. The results justify the effort.”
Yield: 6 servings; Time: 1 1/2 hours.
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020731-mushroom-potpie.
Ingredients
1/2 cup dried porcini mushrooms (1/2 ounce)
4 tablespoons olive oil, plus more as needed
1/2 pound fresh oyster mushrooms, torn into separate pieces (or shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and halved)
Kosher salt and black pepper
1/2 pound cremini mushrooms, stemmed and quartered (or cut into sixths if large)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
1/4 pound lacinato kale, stemmed, leaves thinly sliced crosswise
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup diced peeled carrots (from 2 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 cup diced peeled parsnips (from 2 medium parsnips, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 cup diced red potatoes (from 2 small potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 (14- to 16-ounce) package puff pastry, thawed
1 large egg
Preparation
Heat oven to 425 degrees. Bring 2 cups of water to boil in a small pot. Place the porcini mushrooms in a medium bowl and pour the boiling water on top; set aside to soak and soften.
Meanwhile, in a large (12-inch) ovenproof skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high. Working in two batches so the mushrooms brown evenly, add half the oyster mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and cook, undisturbed, until browned underneath, about 3 minutes. Stir the mushrooms, then continue to cook until browned all over, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl. Repeat with 2 tablespoons oil and the remaining oyster mushrooms; transfer them to the medium bowl. Add another 2 tablespoons oil, then add the cremini mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and tender, 6 to 8 minutes, lowering the heat as needed to avoid burning. Transfer to the bowl.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once the butter is melted, add the onion and cook until starting to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the kale, garlic, thyme and rosemary, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes, adding 1 to 2 tablespoons oil if the pan seems dry. Sprinkle with the flour and cook, stirring, until flour is dispersed and lightly toasted, 2 minutes.
Stirring constantly, gradually add the stock, cream and 3/4 cup of the liquid from the soaking porcini mushrooms. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and the sautéed mushrooms and any accumulated juices. Strain the soaked porcini mushrooms, discarding any remaining liquid, then roughly chop the mushrooms and stir them into the filling. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (If making ahead, the filling can be refrigerated a day in advance; just warm it up slightly before assembling and baking.)
On a lightly dusted work surface using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll out the puff pastry into a roughly 14-inch circle. Transfer to the top of the skillet, allowing slight overhang, folding under and pinching any overhang just below the rim of the skillet. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 teaspoon water. Lightly brush the egg wash over the top of the puff pastry, then cut 5 (2-inch) slits into the puff pastry, starting near the center and radiating outward, like the rays of the sun, or create a stripe or crisscross pattern in the puff pastry by gently scoring it with a paring knife without fully cutting through. Crimp the edges using the tines of a fork, if desired.
Set the skillet on top of an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet and transfer to the middle rack of the oven. Bake until the puff pastry is puffed and golden, about 30 minutes. Let sit 10 minutes before serving.
HEARTBURN-FRIENDLY CHICKEN POT PIE
This is from Sharon Gillson, who wrote for Verywell Health. Sharon wrote, "This delicious and indulgent chicken pot pie recipe is made from scratch with heartburn-friendly ingredients, including skinless chicken breasts and skim milk.
"Foods with a high-fat content are typically the culprit affecting those with heartburn. This low-fat recipe puts chicken pot pie back on the menu."
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, click here.
Note: Check out the More About Chicken Pot Pie and Pot Pie History at the end of the recipe; they're from Sharon.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup frozen carrots, thawed and drained
1 cup frozen peas, thawed and drained
1 (14.75-ounce) can cream-style corn
3/4 cup skim milk, divided into 1/4 cup and 1/2 cup portions
1 cup biscuit mix
Directions
Heat oven to 400 degrees F.
Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the 1 pound of salted chicken breast cubes and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until browned.
Place chicken into a 3-quart baking dish, and add 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained carrots, 1 cup.
Cover and bake for 25 minutes.
In a mixing bowl combine 1 cup biscuit mix and remaining 1/2 cup of skim milk. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Remove baking dish from oven and uncover.
Spoon dough onto chicken and vegetables with a tablespoon and spread evenly to cover entire surface of chicken mixture.
Bake uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
More About Chicken Pot Pie
“Chicken pot pie is comfort food at its best. It's the perfect vehicle for leftover roast or grilled chicken and vegetables mixed with gravy or sauce. Where one can get into trouble is the crust. Typically, high-fat pie dough or puffed pastry crusts are used, which can cause problems for heartburn sufferers. This recipe is a lighter version.”
Pot Pie History
“Meat pot pies go back to the Roman Empire where they were served at lavish banquets, sometimes with live birds under the crust (remember "four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie"?).
“16th-century English gentry continued the custom of meat pies made with pork, lamb, game, and birds. This meat pie craze spread to the New World with early settlers who eventually took them to the West where they have become firmly entrenched in the U.S. culinary repertoire.
“Some say English pasties, favored by Cornish tin miners, is actually a portable version of a classic pot pie. You decide.”
ADAM RICHMAN'S FLAVOR BOMB STEAK CHILI
This comes from Adam Richman on Today's website. Adam wrote, "My local bar in Brooklyn, New York hosts a chili cook-off every Super Bowl. One year, a guy brought in chili with chunks of steak in it instead of the traditional ground beef. Even though his chili didn't win, the texture alone, even the novelty of having huge chunks of steak in it, made his stand out. Plus, with the sweetness and richness of the flavors created by the combination of cocoa, oyster sauce, coffee and the umami bomb that is Maggi seasoning, this chili will be one that people will remember for a long time.
“Technique tip: if you see her any meat with very savory seasonings, make sure to deglaze the bottom of the pan with stock, alcohol or some kind of liquid to create a depth of flavor. For a slightly thicker chili, you can stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of corn flour.
“Swap option: You can use serrano chilies instead of jalapeños or a combination of both. You can also add 5-8 drops of liquid smoke."
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 2 hours; Servings: 6 - 8
To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/adam-richman-s-flavor-bomb-steak-chili-recipe-t172165.
Ingredients
Extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 pounds of beef for stew, cut into roughly 1-inch chunks
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 large white onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, roughly smashed and chopped
3 jalapeños, two of them chopped and seeded, one of them only chopped, retaining seeds for extra heat
2 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
3 1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce
5 tablespoons tomato paste
Two 32-ounce containers beef stock
Two 15-ounce cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed with cool water
One 10-ounce can chopped tomatoes
2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
1 cup strong black coffee
To serve
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Crumbled cornbread
Sliced jalapeños
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Preparation
Preheat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat with 2-3 tablespoons of oil.
Liberally season the steak with salt and pepper. Working in batches, sear the cubes of meat completely on all sides. Use tongs to place meat and don't overcrowd pan. When they are browned, remove meat from Dutch oven using tongs and let it rest on a towel-lined plate.
Add a little bit more oil to the Dutch oven, and then add the onion, garlic and jalapeños.
When the onion begins to soften add all the spices. Stir thoroughly. After about 1-2 minutes, add the oyster sauce and the tomato paste. Stir thoroughly.
After cooking for roughly 2 minutes, add all the beef stock and stir, making sure you scrape all of the caramelized bits of oyster sauce, spices and tomato paste off the bottom of the pan.
Then add the beans, tomatoes, cocoa, coffee and reserved beef. Stir to combine thoroughly and reduce heat to low bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover, and cook for two hours or until desired consistency is achieved.
Serve hot with the garnishes of your choice.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
BEST BEEF STROGANOFF
This is from Bri22 on Food. Time: 35 minutes; Serves: 6 - 8
To view this online, click here..
Ingredients
1/2 cup minced onion
1 cup sour cream
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup butter
1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
canned mushroom stems and pieces, 2-3 cans, drained
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (I always use the top name brand)
1 (12 ounce) bag egg noodles, cooked
Directions
Sauté onion and garlic in butter over medium heat.
Stir in ground beef and brown stir in flour, salt, mushrooms, and pepper cook 5 minutes, then stir in soup. Simmer uncovered 10 minutes.
Stir in sour cream until heated. Serve over noodles.
Friday, September 25, 2026
Friday Recipes
It's finally Friday. Here are six recipes to help you through the weekend, including Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes and Cheese and Grown-Up Sloppy Joes. Enjoy!
MEATLOAF
This is from Kay Chun in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Kay wrote, "Traditional meatloaf was created as a tasty way to use up leftover vegetables and to stretch meat further during lean times. This easy meatloaf recipe is a classic version, blending ground beef, pork and veal with simple pantry seasonings, but you should feel free to use your preferred combination of meat, such as half pork and half beef. Milk-soaked bread ensures a tender meatloaf, and baking it freeform — on a baking sheet instead of a loaf pan — provides more surface area for the tangy-sweet tomato glaze to caramelize as it bakes. Leftover slices can be crisped in a skillet and served with a salad or tucked into a sandwich. Alternatively, freeze one uncooked loaf for the next time you need to put dinner on the table with ease; simply thaw the night before and bake as directed."
Total Time: 1-1/2 hours; Yield: 6 to 8 servings (2 loaves)
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020853-meatloaf. While you're at it, if you haven't signed up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more. Go ahead, I'll wait. (Tap, tap, tap.)
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
5 large garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 (1/2-inch-thick) slices white sandwich bread (about 3 ounces), torn into small pieces
2/3 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf or curly parsley
2 tablespoons kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal) or 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt or fine salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
3 pounds meatloaf mix (or any combination of ground beef, pork and/or veal)
For the Tomato Glaze
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Chopped fresh parsley, for serving (optional)
Preparation
Make the meatloaf: Heat oven to 350 degrees and grease a rimmed baking sheet with oil. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Stir in tomato paste until well combined; let cool.
In a large bowl, combine bread and milk, and mash with a spoon until a paste forms.
Add eggs, parsley, salt, pepper, thyme and cooled onion mixture and mix until well blended.
Add the beef, pork and veal, and mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Divide mixture into 2 equal portions and shape each into a 4-by-8-inch meatloaf on the prepared baking sheet. (If you like, use an 8-inch loaf pan to shape each meatloaf before unmolding for baking.)
Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Use a spoon to spread mixture over the top and sides of each meatloaf.
Bake until nicely browned and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of meatloaf registers 160 degrees, 45 to 55 minutes. Let rest for 15 minutes before sprinkling the top with fresh parsley, if using, and slicing.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
GROWN-UP SLOPPY JOES
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Who says Sloppy Joes are only for kids? We've lightened up the typical kid's meal with fresh vegetables and added a bit of spice for good measure. Your kids will still like it, and so will you!"
Cook Time: 15 minutes; Serves:4
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Beef/Grown-Up-Sloppy-Joes.
Ingredients
1 pound 95% lean ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 small zucchini, shredded
2 cups light spaghetti sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 whole wheat, sandwich thins, split
Directions
In a large skillet, brown ground beef, onion, and zucchini over medium-high heat 10 to 12 minutes, or until beef is no longer pink and zucchini is tender.
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in spaghetti sauce, garlic powder, chili powder, and black pepper. Cook an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until heated through.
Spoon over bottom halves of sandwich thins, cover with tops, and serve immediately.
CLASSIC CHICKEN POT PIE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "What is a classic chicken pot pie? It starts with a scratch sauce that’s made easily with just a few ingredients. We’ll show you how to master this sauce, even if it’s your first time making it. The fresh, flavorful sauce becomes the rich and luscious savory pie filling when mixed with cooked chicken and veggies. All this goodness gets tucked inside tender, flaky pie crust, for a decadent homemade chicken pot pie that beckons all to the table. It’s a perfect dinner to serve when the nights turn cold, as its comforting qualities warm you from the inside out."
Prep Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Servings: 6
To view this online, as well as to read the rest of the notes about this recipe, click here.
Ingredients
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup Gold Medal™ All Purpose Flour
1/3 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1-3/4 cups chicken broth
2/3 cup milk
2-1/2 to 3 cups cut-up cooked chicken or turkey
1 box (10 oz) frozen peas and carrots
1 box (14.1 oz) refrigerated Pillsbury™ Pie Crusts (2 Count), softened as directed on box
Instructions
In 2-quart saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, onion, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly with whisk, until mixture is bubbly; remove from heat. Stir in broth and milk. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil and stir 1 minute. Stir in chicken and peas and carrots; remove from heat.
Heat oven to 425°F. Roll 1 pie crust into 13-inch square. Ease into ungreased 9-inch (2-quart) glass baking dish. Pour chicken mixture into crust-lined dish.
Roll remaining pie crust into 11-inch square. Cut out designs with 1-inch cookie cutter. Place square over chicken mixture. Arrange cutouts on top crust. Turn edges of pie crust under; flute edge.
Bake about 35 minutes or until golden brown.
BLACK-EYED CHICKEN
Recipe Yield: Yield: 6 servings
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/black-eyed-chicken.
Ingredients
16 oz can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
1 cup diced celery
1 cup red bell pepper
1 cup green bell pepper
1/2 cup sliced green onion
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
3 Tbsp fat-free Italian salad dressing
2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
6 cups lettuce leaves
Directions
Combine all ingredients except lettuce in a bowl. Stir well. Cover and chill for 4 hours. Serve on lettuce leaves.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 170; Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Fiber: 5 g; Sodium: 430 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Protein: 20 g; Carbohydrates: 17 g; Sugars: 3 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 2 Meat, 1 Carbohydrate
PASTA WITH SPINACH, CHICKPEAS AND FETA
This is from the May 2005 issue of Vegetarian Times (page 42). It is in an article titled Calci-yum!, and begins, "This quick and easy pasta dish offers a way to add not only calcium to your diet, but also protein and vitamins A and C." Time: 30 minutes or less; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/pasta-with-spinach-chickpeas-and-feta/.
Ingredients
8 oz. uncooked spiral-shaped pasta
4 cups coarsely chopped fresh spinach leaves
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 19-oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cloves garlic, minced
Preparation
Bring large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions, or until al dente, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, combine all other ingredients.
When pasta is done, drain, and transfer to large bowl. Add remaining ingredients, and toss well. Serve right away.
MEATLOAF
This is from Kay Chun in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Kay wrote, "Traditional meatloaf was created as a tasty way to use up leftover vegetables and to stretch meat further during lean times. This easy meatloaf recipe is a classic version, blending ground beef, pork and veal with simple pantry seasonings, but you should feel free to use your preferred combination of meat, such as half pork and half beef. Milk-soaked bread ensures a tender meatloaf, and baking it freeform — on a baking sheet instead of a loaf pan — provides more surface area for the tangy-sweet tomato glaze to caramelize as it bakes. Leftover slices can be crisped in a skillet and served with a salad or tucked into a sandwich. Alternatively, freeze one uncooked loaf for the next time you need to put dinner on the table with ease; simply thaw the night before and bake as directed."
Total Time: 1-1/2 hours; Yield: 6 to 8 servings (2 loaves)
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020853-meatloaf. While you're at it, if you haven't signed up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more. Go ahead, I'll wait. (Tap, tap, tap.)
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
5 large garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 (1/2-inch-thick) slices white sandwich bread (about 3 ounces), torn into small pieces
2/3 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf or curly parsley
2 tablespoons kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal) or 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt or fine salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
3 pounds meatloaf mix (or any combination of ground beef, pork and/or veal)
For the Tomato Glaze
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Chopped fresh parsley, for serving (optional)
Preparation
Make the meatloaf: Heat oven to 350 degrees and grease a rimmed baking sheet with oil. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Stir in tomato paste until well combined; let cool.
In a large bowl, combine bread and milk, and mash with a spoon until a paste forms.
Add eggs, parsley, salt, pepper, thyme and cooled onion mixture and mix until well blended.
Add the beef, pork and veal, and mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Divide mixture into 2 equal portions and shape each into a 4-by-8-inch meatloaf on the prepared baking sheet. (If you like, use an 8-inch loaf pan to shape each meatloaf before unmolding for baking.)
Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Use a spoon to spread mixture over the top and sides of each meatloaf.
Bake until nicely browned and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of meatloaf registers 160 degrees, 45 to 55 minutes. Let rest for 15 minutes before sprinkling the top with fresh parsley, if using, and slicing.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
GROWN-UP SLOPPY JOES
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Who says Sloppy Joes are only for kids? We've lightened up the typical kid's meal with fresh vegetables and added a bit of spice for good measure. Your kids will still like it, and so will you!"
Cook Time: 15 minutes; Serves:4
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Beef/Grown-Up-Sloppy-Joes.
Ingredients
1 pound 95% lean ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 small zucchini, shredded
2 cups light spaghetti sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 whole wheat, sandwich thins, split
Directions
In a large skillet, brown ground beef, onion, and zucchini over medium-high heat 10 to 12 minutes, or until beef is no longer pink and zucchini is tender.
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in spaghetti sauce, garlic powder, chili powder, and black pepper. Cook an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until heated through.
Spoon over bottom halves of sandwich thins, cover with tops, and serve immediately.
CLASSIC CHICKEN POT PIE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "What is a classic chicken pot pie? It starts with a scratch sauce that’s made easily with just a few ingredients. We’ll show you how to master this sauce, even if it’s your first time making it. The fresh, flavorful sauce becomes the rich and luscious savory pie filling when mixed with cooked chicken and veggies. All this goodness gets tucked inside tender, flaky pie crust, for a decadent homemade chicken pot pie that beckons all to the table. It’s a perfect dinner to serve when the nights turn cold, as its comforting qualities warm you from the inside out."
Prep Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Servings: 6
To view this online, as well as to read the rest of the notes about this recipe, click here.
Ingredients
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup Gold Medal™ All Purpose Flour
1/3 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1-3/4 cups chicken broth
2/3 cup milk
2-1/2 to 3 cups cut-up cooked chicken or turkey
1 box (10 oz) frozen peas and carrots
1 box (14.1 oz) refrigerated Pillsbury™ Pie Crusts (2 Count), softened as directed on box
Instructions
In 2-quart saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, onion, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly with whisk, until mixture is bubbly; remove from heat. Stir in broth and milk. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil and stir 1 minute. Stir in chicken and peas and carrots; remove from heat.
Heat oven to 425°F. Roll 1 pie crust into 13-inch square. Ease into ungreased 9-inch (2-quart) glass baking dish. Pour chicken mixture into crust-lined dish.
Roll remaining pie crust into 11-inch square. Cut out designs with 1-inch cookie cutter. Place square over chicken mixture. Arrange cutouts on top crust. Turn edges of pie crust under; flute edge.
Bake about 35 minutes or until golden brown.
BLACK-EYED CHICKEN
Recipe Yield: Yield: 6 servings
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/black-eyed-chicken.
Ingredients
16 oz can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
1 cup diced celery
1 cup red bell pepper
1 cup green bell pepper
1/2 cup sliced green onion
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
3 Tbsp fat-free Italian salad dressing
2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
6 cups lettuce leaves
Directions
Combine all ingredients except lettuce in a bowl. Stir well. Cover and chill for 4 hours. Serve on lettuce leaves.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 170; Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Fiber: 5 g; Sodium: 430 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Protein: 20 g; Carbohydrates: 17 g; Sugars: 3 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 2 Meat, 1 Carbohydrate
PASTA WITH SPINACH, CHICKPEAS AND FETA
This is from the May 2005 issue of Vegetarian Times (page 42). It is in an article titled Calci-yum!, and begins, "This quick and easy pasta dish offers a way to add not only calcium to your diet, but also protein and vitamins A and C." Time: 30 minutes or less; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/pasta-with-spinach-chickpeas-and-feta/.
Ingredients
8 oz. uncooked spiral-shaped pasta
4 cups coarsely chopped fresh spinach leaves
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 19-oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cloves garlic, minced
Preparation
Bring large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions, or until al dente, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, combine all other ingredients.
When pasta is done, drain, and transfer to large bowl. Add remaining ingredients, and toss well. Serve right away.
Monday, September 21, 2026
Double-Post Monday
Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Ground Beef Casserole With Potatoes and Cheese and Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers. Enjoy!
CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
This comes from Southern Living, and begins, "Give your traditional chicken casserole a break and serve this bright and lively chicken spaghetti. You only need a Dutch oven and a 9-x-13 baking dish to create this delicious meal, meaning there is less clean-up afterwards. Cook and shred your chicken in advance to save time."
Active Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes; Serves: 10
To view this online, go to https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/easy-chicken-spaghetti.
Ingredients
6 cups unsalted chicken stock
1 (14-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken breast, skin removed
3 (7-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, skin removed
12 ounces uncooked spaghetti
1 (5-oz.) can evaporated milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon lower-sodium Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons hot sauce
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)
1 1/2 cups chopped red bell pepper (about 1 large pepper)
2 cups chopped tomatoes (about 3 medium tomatoes)
4 ounces sharp white Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Bring stock to a boil in a Dutch oven over high. Add chicken to stock. Cover; reduce heat to medium. Cook until a thermometer inserted in thickest piece of chicken registers 160°F, about 25 minutes. Remove chicken; let stand until ready to use. (Inner temperature of chicken will rise as it stands.)
Return stock to a boil over high. Add pasta to Dutch oven, and cook until just tender, about 9 minutes. Transfer pasta to a medium bowl (reserving stock). Return stock to a boil over high; boil until liquid is reduced to about 2-1/2 cups, about 1 minute. Whisk together evaporated milk and flour in a small bowl. Stir into stock; boil until slightly thickened, 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and salt. Pour stock mixture over pasta.
Return Dutch oven to medium-high heat. Add butter, onion, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring often, until tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat; add pasta mixture back to Dutch oven. Shred chicken, discarding bones. (You should have about 4-1/2 cups meat.) Add chicken and tomatoes to Dutch oven; toss to coat. Pour mixture into a 13- x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with cheese. Lightly coat aluminum foil with cooking spray. Cover with foil; bake until cheese is melted, 25 to 30 minutes.
Chef's Notes
You don't have to be a food stylist to create a casserole that looks as good as it tastes. Instead of pouring the pasta mixture from the pot into the baking dish, use tongs and a large spoon to twirl the noodles into nests, as shown below.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
GRILL PAN CHICKEN WITH FIERY MANGO-GINGER SALSA
Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings; Serving size: 1 chicken breast and 1/4 cup salsa
Source: The Heart-Smart Diabetes Kitchen: Fresh, Fast and Flavorful Recipes Made with Canola Oil
Book Title: The Heart-Smart Diabetes Kitchen: Fresh, Fast and Flavorful Recipes Made with Canola Oil
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/grill-pan-chicken-with-fiery-mango-ginger-salsa.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each), rinsed, patted dry and flattened to 1/2-inch thickness
Canola oil cooking spray
1 lemon, cut into quarters
Salsa
1 cup finely chopped mango
2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon canola oil
Directions
Combine 1 tablespoon canola oil, curry powder, sugar, pepper and salt. Brush over chicken and let marinate for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, stir together salsa ingredients in a small bowl.
Coat a grill pan with canola oil cooking spray and place over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken, discarding any marinade. Cook chicken 4 minutes on each side or until no longer pink inside and juices run clear. Transfer to a serving platter. Squeeze lemon juice over chicken; serve with salsa.
Notes:
This dish offers a medley for flavours. Using salsa in place of more salt lowers the sodium content and boosts taste!
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 205; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 175 mg; Cholesterol: 65 mg; Protein: 25 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat
CHEESEBURGER STUFFED PEPPERS
This is from Anna Painter at the Today Show. Cheeseburgers? Stuffed peppers? What's not to love!
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 55 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/cheeseburger-stuffed-peppers-t288924.
Ingredients
4 bell peppers, halved lengthwise, ribs and seeds removed
1 tablespoon neutral oil, divided
kosher salt, to taste
ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup finely chopped red onion, divided
1 cup ground beef
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/3 cup dill pickles, finely chopped, plus more for serving
5 tablespoons ketchup, divided, plus more for serving
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon yellow mustard, plus more for serving
1-1/2 cups cooked jasmine rice
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
chopped tomatoes, for serving
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 425 F with a rack in the center position. Transfer the peppers to a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, cut side up. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon oil and season with salt and pepper. Flip the peppers cut side down and roast until just tender, about 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, place a large skillet over high heat and add the remaining 2 teaspoons oil. Add the onions, ground beef, 1 teaspoon salt, black pepper and paprika to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are tender and the beef is browned and cooked through, 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add the pickles, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce and mustard, stirring to combine.
Add the rice and 2-1/2 cups cheddar cheese to the beef mixture and stir to combine. Season mixture to taste with salt and pepper.
Flip the peppers cut side up. Divide the beef filling among the peppers (about 3/4 cup per pepper). Spread remaining ketchup over the filling in each pepper half. Cover with foil and bake until the filling is warm, about 20 minutes. Uncover, top each pepper with 1 tablespoon of the remaining cheddar cheese and bake until the cheese has melted, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes.
Serve with ketchup, mustard, chopped tomatoes and chopped pickles.
HEALTHY BBQ RANCH SALAD
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "If you love those barbecue ranch flavors then this healthy salad recipe is right up your alley. Our Healthy BBQ Ranch Salad has so much southwestern flavor, it'll have you saying "Yeehaw!" with every bite!"
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Serves: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Green-Salads/Healthy-BBQ-Ranch-Salad.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked, diced chicken breast
2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
5 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 tomato, diced
3/4 cup frozen corn, thawed
3/4 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup reduced fat shredded Cheddar cheese (optional)
1/4 cup fat-free Ranch dressing
1/4 cup tortilla strips (see note)
Directions
In a small bowl, combine chicken and barbecue sauce; toss until evenly coated.
In a large bowl, place lettuce; top with chicken, tomato, corn, beans, onion, and cheese, if desired. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
Top with tortilla strips, if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
To make your own healthier tortilla strips, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Then, cut a 6" whole-wheat flour tortilal into thin strips and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle over your salad and enjoy!
NEIMAN MARCUS CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from Nicole McLaughlin at allrecipes. For this recipe, Nicole wrote, "This Neiman Marcus chicken casserole recipe is a casserole version of the famous department store's cafe dish. Saucy chicken, bacon, Cheddar, and almonds are baked with a buttery cracker topping in this quick-prep dinner."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Servings: 6 to 8; Yield: 1 (9x13-inch) casserole
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/neiman-marcus-chicken-casserole-recipe-11693255.
Ingredients
4 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/2 cup slivered almonds
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1-1/2 teaspoons hot sauce, such as Tabasco® or to taste
1 sleeve buttery crackers, such as Ritz® crackers, crushed
1/2 cup butter, melted
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Place chicken, chicken soup, sour cream, cheese, green onions, almonds, bacon, and hot sauce into a large mixing bowl and stir to combine. Pour mixture into the prepared dish.
Stir crushed crackers and butter together until combined; spread mixture evenly over casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven until browned and bubbly, 40 to 45 minutes.
CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
This comes from Southern Living, and begins, "Give your traditional chicken casserole a break and serve this bright and lively chicken spaghetti. You only need a Dutch oven and a 9-x-13 baking dish to create this delicious meal, meaning there is less clean-up afterwards. Cook and shred your chicken in advance to save time."
Active Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes; Serves: 10
To view this online, go to https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/easy-chicken-spaghetti.
Ingredients
6 cups unsalted chicken stock
1 (14-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken breast, skin removed
3 (7-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, skin removed
12 ounces uncooked spaghetti
1 (5-oz.) can evaporated milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon lower-sodium Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons hot sauce
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)
1 1/2 cups chopped red bell pepper (about 1 large pepper)
2 cups chopped tomatoes (about 3 medium tomatoes)
4 ounces sharp white Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Bring stock to a boil in a Dutch oven over high. Add chicken to stock. Cover; reduce heat to medium. Cook until a thermometer inserted in thickest piece of chicken registers 160°F, about 25 minutes. Remove chicken; let stand until ready to use. (Inner temperature of chicken will rise as it stands.)
Return stock to a boil over high. Add pasta to Dutch oven, and cook until just tender, about 9 minutes. Transfer pasta to a medium bowl (reserving stock). Return stock to a boil over high; boil until liquid is reduced to about 2-1/2 cups, about 1 minute. Whisk together evaporated milk and flour in a small bowl. Stir into stock; boil until slightly thickened, 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and salt. Pour stock mixture over pasta.
Return Dutch oven to medium-high heat. Add butter, onion, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring often, until tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat; add pasta mixture back to Dutch oven. Shred chicken, discarding bones. (You should have about 4-1/2 cups meat.) Add chicken and tomatoes to Dutch oven; toss to coat. Pour mixture into a 13- x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with cheese. Lightly coat aluminum foil with cooking spray. Cover with foil; bake until cheese is melted, 25 to 30 minutes.
Chef's Notes
You don't have to be a food stylist to create a casserole that looks as good as it tastes. Instead of pouring the pasta mixture from the pot into the baking dish, use tongs and a large spoon to twirl the noodles into nests, as shown below.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
GRILL PAN CHICKEN WITH FIERY MANGO-GINGER SALSA
Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings; Serving size: 1 chicken breast and 1/4 cup salsa
Source: The Heart-Smart Diabetes Kitchen: Fresh, Fast and Flavorful Recipes Made with Canola Oil
Book Title: The Heart-Smart Diabetes Kitchen: Fresh, Fast and Flavorful Recipes Made with Canola Oil
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/grill-pan-chicken-with-fiery-mango-ginger-salsa.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each), rinsed, patted dry and flattened to 1/2-inch thickness
Canola oil cooking spray
1 lemon, cut into quarters
Salsa
1 cup finely chopped mango
2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon canola oil
Directions
Combine 1 tablespoon canola oil, curry powder, sugar, pepper and salt. Brush over chicken and let marinate for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, stir together salsa ingredients in a small bowl.
Coat a grill pan with canola oil cooking spray and place over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken, discarding any marinade. Cook chicken 4 minutes on each side or until no longer pink inside and juices run clear. Transfer to a serving platter. Squeeze lemon juice over chicken; serve with salsa.
Notes:
This dish offers a medley for flavours. Using salsa in place of more salt lowers the sodium content and boosts taste!
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 205; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 175 mg; Cholesterol: 65 mg; Protein: 25 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat
CHEESEBURGER STUFFED PEPPERS
This is from Anna Painter at the Today Show. Cheeseburgers? Stuffed peppers? What's not to love!
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 55 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/cheeseburger-stuffed-peppers-t288924.
Ingredients
4 bell peppers, halved lengthwise, ribs and seeds removed
1 tablespoon neutral oil, divided
kosher salt, to taste
ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup finely chopped red onion, divided
1 cup ground beef
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/3 cup dill pickles, finely chopped, plus more for serving
5 tablespoons ketchup, divided, plus more for serving
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon yellow mustard, plus more for serving
1-1/2 cups cooked jasmine rice
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
chopped tomatoes, for serving
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 425 F with a rack in the center position. Transfer the peppers to a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, cut side up. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon oil and season with salt and pepper. Flip the peppers cut side down and roast until just tender, about 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, place a large skillet over high heat and add the remaining 2 teaspoons oil. Add the onions, ground beef, 1 teaspoon salt, black pepper and paprika to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are tender and the beef is browned and cooked through, 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add the pickles, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce and mustard, stirring to combine.
Add the rice and 2-1/2 cups cheddar cheese to the beef mixture and stir to combine. Season mixture to taste with salt and pepper.
Flip the peppers cut side up. Divide the beef filling among the peppers (about 3/4 cup per pepper). Spread remaining ketchup over the filling in each pepper half. Cover with foil and bake until the filling is warm, about 20 minutes. Uncover, top each pepper with 1 tablespoon of the remaining cheddar cheese and bake until the cheese has melted, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes.
Serve with ketchup, mustard, chopped tomatoes and chopped pickles.
HEALTHY BBQ RANCH SALAD
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "If you love those barbecue ranch flavors then this healthy salad recipe is right up your alley. Our Healthy BBQ Ranch Salad has so much southwestern flavor, it'll have you saying "Yeehaw!" with every bite!"
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Serves: 4
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Green-Salads/Healthy-BBQ-Ranch-Salad.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked, diced chicken breast
2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
5 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 tomato, diced
3/4 cup frozen corn, thawed
3/4 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup reduced fat shredded Cheddar cheese (optional)
1/4 cup fat-free Ranch dressing
1/4 cup tortilla strips (see note)
Directions
In a small bowl, combine chicken and barbecue sauce; toss until evenly coated.
In a large bowl, place lettuce; top with chicken, tomato, corn, beans, onion, and cheese, if desired. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
Top with tortilla strips, if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
To make your own healthier tortilla strips, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Then, cut a 6" whole-wheat flour tortilal into thin strips and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle over your salad and enjoy!
NEIMAN MARCUS CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from Nicole McLaughlin at allrecipes. For this recipe, Nicole wrote, "This Neiman Marcus chicken casserole recipe is a casserole version of the famous department store's cafe dish. Saucy chicken, bacon, Cheddar, and almonds are baked with a buttery cracker topping in this quick-prep dinner."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Servings: 6 to 8; Yield: 1 (9x13-inch) casserole
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/neiman-marcus-chicken-casserole-recipe-11693255.
Ingredients
4 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/2 cup slivered almonds
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1-1/2 teaspoons hot sauce, such as Tabasco® or to taste
1 sleeve buttery crackers, such as Ritz® crackers, crushed
1/2 cup butter, melted
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Place chicken, chicken soup, sour cream, cheese, green onions, almonds, bacon, and hot sauce into a large mixing bowl and stir to combine. Pour mixture into the prepared dish.
Stir crushed crackers and butter together until combined; spread mixture evenly over casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven until browned and bubbly, 40 to 45 minutes.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Casseroles
For years, if someone mentioned Casseroles, the first thing many of us would think of was a way to use up left-overs. While casseroles might be a good way to do that, they're so much more. They can be a great way to get a bunch of ingredients together in one yummy dish.
A brief anecdote: When my maternal grandparents were newly-weds, my grandfather invited his boss home for dinner. My grandmother had gotten rave reviews about her chicken casserole, to the point that whenever their church or any other group had a potluck dinner, people would request that she bring along her chicken casserole. It needed, among other ingredients, an entire chicken; no left-overs here!
So, for grandpa's boss, it was grandma's chicken casserole. Unfortunately, the boss made the mistake of thinking that the casserole was a left-overs dish, and stated, "If you knew your husband was bringing home the boss, you might have fixed something better than left-overs!"
To say that the comment was not kindly taken was an understatement. Grandma was off and running her mouth, informing him that she'd had to go out and buy a fresh chicken that morning for the casserole. (This was at a time when chicken was expensive enough that it was usually saved for Sunday dinner, or special occasions - like the boss coming for a meal.)
Fortunately, the boss apologized, tasted the casserole, and was impressed.
Grandma and Grandpa
Unfortunately, while there is a recipe in this post called Grandma’s Chicken Casserole, it isn’t my Grandma's chicken casserole; I really wish I had a copy of it! However, check out the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, the Stuffed Pepper Casserole,, and the rest of today's offerings. Enjoy!
BEEF TORTILLA CASSEROLE
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, “An enchilada dinner kit creates a hearty beef casserole that's in the oven in just 20 minutes.”
Prep Time: 20 Minutes; Total Time: 50 Minutes; Makes 6 servings
View this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/beef-tortilla-casserole.
Ingredients
1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 box (14.2 oz) Old El Paso™ enchilada dinner kit
1/2 cup water
1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)
Preparation
Heat oven to 350°F. In 10-inch skillet, cook beef and onion, stirring occasionally, until beef is thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in both pouches enchilada sauce (from dinner kit), the seasoning mix (from dinner kit), water and chiles; heat until hot.
In ungreased 11x7-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the beef mixture. Cut tortillas (from dinner kit) in half. Place 6 tortilla halves on beef; spread with 1/2 cup of the sour cream. Top with 1/2 cup of the cheese, 1 cup of the beef mixture and remaining 6 tortilla halves. Top with remaining sour cream, remaining beef mixture and remaining cheese.
Bake 30 minutes. If desired, serve with additional sour cream, diced red bell pepper and chopped fresh cilantro.
Expert Tips
Serve a tossed salad with fruity chunks of pineapple, mango or oranges.
GRANDMA'S CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "When it comes to weeknight dinner, casseroles are king. This super-simple, five-ingredient chicken casserole recipe comes together quickly and bakes up beautifully. It’s sure to be your quick-meal go to for at-home dinners and a reliable favorite for bake-and-take potluck dinners."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 cups chopped cooked chicken
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (8 oz)
3 cups Progresso™ plain panko crispy bread crumbs
6 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Place chicken evenly in bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish. Spoon and spread soup evenly over chicken; sprinkle with cheese.
In medium bowl, stir bread crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle over cheese. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread crumbs are golden brown and thoroughly heated.
Tips from the Betty Crocker Kitchens
tip 1
Your grandma probably didn’t use panko bread crumbs, which are crispy crumbs used in Japanese cooking. But she’d definitely embrace them if she were given a box. Panko makes topping a casserole quick and ensures there’s good texture and contrast to the creamy center of the hot dish.
tip 2
Leftover roast turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe—especially the day after Thanksgiving.
tip 3
Sub in crispy French-fried onions to top the casserole or try Colby-Monterey Jack cheese blend instead of cheddar cheese.
CREAMY CRUNCHY CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Our Creamy Crunchy Chicken Casserole hits all the high notes. Plus, it comes together so quickly, you'll have this easy casserole recipe on the table before your gang can ask, 'What's for dinner?'"
Cook Time: 30 minutes; Serves: 6; Serving Size: 3/4 cup
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Casseroles/Creamy-Crunchy-Chicken-Casserole.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken breast (about 1lb.), chopped
3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1 (10-3/4-ounce) can, reduced-fat and reduced-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup
1/4 cup low-fat milk
1 cup chopped red or yellow bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup low-sodium crushed cornflakes
1/4 cup sliced almonds
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a 2-qt. casserole dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, stir together chicken, cheese, soup, milk, bell pepper, celery, green onions, and pepper. Pour into prepared casserole dish.
In a small bowl, stir together cornflakes and almonds. Sprinkle evenly over chicken mixture.
Bake, uncovered, about 30 minutes, or until heated through. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Want to make this ahead of time? No problem! Just assemble the casserole, cover tightly, freeze, thaw completely, then bake off!
CHICKEN BACON RANCH CASSEROLE
This is from the Pillsbury emailing list. It begins, "Level up your casserole game in the easiest way with a yummy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Simple, hearty and guaranteed to please, this creamy chicken pasta dish will have the whole family asking for seconds. Prep your casserole in just 20 minutes, then let your oven do all the heavy lifting—this chicken bacon ranch pasta bake is the definition of comfort food!"
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 45; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 lb penne pasta, cooked and drained
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo pasta sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
6 slices chopped cooked bacon
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz)
Chopped parsley, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray 13x9-inch pan.
In large bowl, place 1 lb cooked and drained penne pasta, 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo pasta sauce and 1/2 cup ranch dressing. Stir to combine. Pour mixture in pan; spread evenly.
Sprinkle 6 slices chopped cooked bacon evenly over top, then sprinkle with 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz).
Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Tips from the Pillsbury Kitchens
tip 1
Don't skimp on the optional sprinkle of chopped parsley. It adds bright color and a fresh taste to your bacon ranch chicken bake.
Tip 2
If you don't have any leftover chicken, pick up a rotisserie chicken at your grocery store. A 2-lb bird will provide about 3 cups of meat.
Tip 3
To add a more distinct cheesy flavor to your chicken bacon casserole, use cheddar cheese instead of the mozzarella.
Tip 4
You can use any short pasta, including fusilli or rotini, in this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole recipe. The short noodles make the casserole easy to scoop up and serve.
STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE
This is from TheDailyGourmet at AllRecipes, and begins, "Stuffed peppers are deconstructed in this casserole and given a subtle taco flair."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/stuffed-pepper-casserole-recipe-7372944.
Ingredients
nonstick cooking spray
1 pound ground beef
1/2 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (such as RO-TEL®)
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
3 tablespoons taco seasoning
1-1/2 cups uncooked long grain rice
1 cup beef broth
4 ounces Colby cheese, shredded
4 ounces pepper Jack cheese, shredded
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Spray a 13x9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, and cook and stir ground beef, onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and garlic until meat is browned and crumbly, 7 to 10 minutes. Drain excess fat; season with salt and pepper. Stir in RO-TEL tomatoes, tomato sauce, and taco seasoning.
Spread rice in the bottom of the baking dish; pour in beef broth. Fold pepper mixture into rice with a spatula, and spread evenly into the dish. Sprinkle with Colby cheese and pepper Jack cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven, covered with foil, until rice is tender, about 50 minutes. Remove foil and cook until cheese is golden, about 5 minutes more.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
A brief anecdote: When my maternal grandparents were newly-weds, my grandfather invited his boss home for dinner. My grandmother had gotten rave reviews about her chicken casserole, to the point that whenever their church or any other group had a potluck dinner, people would request that she bring along her chicken casserole. It needed, among other ingredients, an entire chicken; no left-overs here!
So, for grandpa's boss, it was grandma's chicken casserole. Unfortunately, the boss made the mistake of thinking that the casserole was a left-overs dish, and stated, "If you knew your husband was bringing home the boss, you might have fixed something better than left-overs!"
To say that the comment was not kindly taken was an understatement. Grandma was off and running her mouth, informing him that she'd had to go out and buy a fresh chicken that morning for the casserole. (This was at a time when chicken was expensive enough that it was usually saved for Sunday dinner, or special occasions - like the boss coming for a meal.)
Fortunately, the boss apologized, tasted the casserole, and was impressed.
Grandma and Grandpa
Unfortunately, while there is a recipe in this post called Grandma’s Chicken Casserole, it isn’t my Grandma's chicken casserole; I really wish I had a copy of it! However, check out the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole, the Stuffed Pepper Casserole,, and the rest of today's offerings. Enjoy!
BEEF TORTILLA CASSEROLE
This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, “An enchilada dinner kit creates a hearty beef casserole that's in the oven in just 20 minutes.”
Prep Time: 20 Minutes; Total Time: 50 Minutes; Makes 6 servings
View this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/beef-tortilla-casserole.
Ingredients
1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 box (14.2 oz) Old El Paso™ enchilada dinner kit
1/2 cup water
1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)
Preparation
Heat oven to 350°F. In 10-inch skillet, cook beef and onion, stirring occasionally, until beef is thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in both pouches enchilada sauce (from dinner kit), the seasoning mix (from dinner kit), water and chiles; heat until hot.
In ungreased 11x7-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the beef mixture. Cut tortillas (from dinner kit) in half. Place 6 tortilla halves on beef; spread with 1/2 cup of the sour cream. Top with 1/2 cup of the cheese, 1 cup of the beef mixture and remaining 6 tortilla halves. Top with remaining sour cream, remaining beef mixture and remaining cheese.
Bake 30 minutes. If desired, serve with additional sour cream, diced red bell pepper and chopped fresh cilantro.
Expert Tips
Serve a tossed salad with fruity chunks of pineapple, mango or oranges.
GRANDMA'S CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "When it comes to weeknight dinner, casseroles are king. This super-simple, five-ingredient chicken casserole recipe comes together quickly and bakes up beautifully. It’s sure to be your quick-meal go to for at-home dinners and a reliable favorite for bake-and-take potluck dinners."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 cups chopped cooked chicken
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (8 oz)
3 cups Progresso™ plain panko crispy bread crumbs
6 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Place chicken evenly in bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish. Spoon and spread soup evenly over chicken; sprinkle with cheese.
In medium bowl, stir bread crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle over cheese. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread crumbs are golden brown and thoroughly heated.
Tips from the Betty Crocker Kitchens
tip 1
Your grandma probably didn’t use panko bread crumbs, which are crispy crumbs used in Japanese cooking. But she’d definitely embrace them if she were given a box. Panko makes topping a casserole quick and ensures there’s good texture and contrast to the creamy center of the hot dish.
tip 2
Leftover roast turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe—especially the day after Thanksgiving.
tip 3
Sub in crispy French-fried onions to top the casserole or try Colby-Monterey Jack cheese blend instead of cheddar cheese.
CREAMY CRUNCHY CHICKEN CASSEROLE
This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Our Creamy Crunchy Chicken Casserole hits all the high notes. Plus, it comes together so quickly, you'll have this easy casserole recipe on the table before your gang can ask, 'What's for dinner?'"
Cook Time: 30 minutes; Serves: 6; Serving Size: 3/4 cup
To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Casseroles/Creamy-Crunchy-Chicken-Casserole.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken breast (about 1lb.), chopped
3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1 (10-3/4-ounce) can, reduced-fat and reduced-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup
1/4 cup low-fat milk
1 cup chopped red or yellow bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup low-sodium crushed cornflakes
1/4 cup sliced almonds
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a 2-qt. casserole dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, stir together chicken, cheese, soup, milk, bell pepper, celery, green onions, and pepper. Pour into prepared casserole dish.
In a small bowl, stir together cornflakes and almonds. Sprinkle evenly over chicken mixture.
Bake, uncovered, about 30 minutes, or until heated through. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Want to make this ahead of time? No problem! Just assemble the casserole, cover tightly, freeze, thaw completely, then bake off!
CHICKEN BACON RANCH CASSEROLE
This is from the Pillsbury emailing list. It begins, "Level up your casserole game in the easiest way with a yummy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Simple, hearty and guaranteed to please, this creamy chicken pasta dish will have the whole family asking for seconds. Prep your casserole in just 20 minutes, then let your oven do all the heavy lifting—this chicken bacon ranch pasta bake is the definition of comfort food!"
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 45; Makes 6 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 lb penne pasta, cooked and drained
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo pasta sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
6 slices chopped cooked bacon
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz)
Chopped parsley, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray 13x9-inch pan.
In large bowl, place 1 lb cooked and drained penne pasta, 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo pasta sauce and 1/2 cup ranch dressing. Stir to combine. Pour mixture in pan; spread evenly.
Sprinkle 6 slices chopped cooked bacon evenly over top, then sprinkle with 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz).
Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Tips from the Pillsbury Kitchens
tip 1
Don't skimp on the optional sprinkle of chopped parsley. It adds bright color and a fresh taste to your bacon ranch chicken bake.
Tip 2
If you don't have any leftover chicken, pick up a rotisserie chicken at your grocery store. A 2-lb bird will provide about 3 cups of meat.
Tip 3
To add a more distinct cheesy flavor to your chicken bacon casserole, use cheddar cheese instead of the mozzarella.
Tip 4
You can use any short pasta, including fusilli or rotini, in this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole recipe. The short noodles make the casserole easy to scoop up and serve.
STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE
This is from TheDailyGourmet at AllRecipes, and begins, "Stuffed peppers are deconstructed in this casserole and given a subtle taco flair."
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/stuffed-pepper-casserole-recipe-7372944.
Ingredients
nonstick cooking spray
1 pound ground beef
1/2 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (such as RO-TEL®)
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
3 tablespoons taco seasoning
1-1/2 cups uncooked long grain rice
1 cup beef broth
4 ounces Colby cheese, shredded
4 ounces pepper Jack cheese, shredded
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Spray a 13x9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, and cook and stir ground beef, onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and garlic until meat is browned and crumbly, 7 to 10 minutes. Drain excess fat; season with salt and pepper. Stir in RO-TEL tomatoes, tomato sauce, and taco seasoning.
Spread rice in the bottom of the baking dish; pour in beef broth. Fold pepper mixture into rice with a spatula, and spread evenly into the dish. Sprinkle with Colby cheese and pepper Jack cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven, covered with foil, until rice is tender, about 50 minutes. Remove foil and cook until cheese is golden, about 5 minutes more.
GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE WITH POTATOES AND CHEESE
This yumminess comes from Diana Rattray on The Spruce Eats. Diana wrote, “Corn, tomatoes, and potatoes and cheese make this ground beef casserole a whole meal. The casserole is similar to a cottage pie or this crockpot Chinese pie.
“If your ground beef is not extra lean you might want to brown it first. See the tips for instructions.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 75 minutes; Total Time: 95 minutes; Yield: Serves 6.
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Ingredients
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (90% or better)*
1 cup chopped onion
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups corn kernels or 1 can (15 ounces), drained
16 ounces diced frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed, or about 3 to 4 cups mashed potato or cooked diced potato
1/4 cup flour
1 green bell pepper, chopped
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 cups shredded sharp or mild Cheddar cheese
Directions
Combine beef, onion, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine corn, potatoes, flour, melted butter, and chopped green bell pepper.
Pat the beef mixture into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; top with the corn and potato mixture.
Bake uncovered at 375° for 45 minutes; sprinkle with the cheese and bake ground beef casserole 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until browned and potatoes are tender.
*If the ground beef is not extra lean, you might want to brown it first. Brown the beef with the onions win a large skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain well and then mix it with the tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Proceed with the recipe.
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