Family Meals Cooked with Convenience in Mind
(Family Features) Part of the fun of family meals is finding inspiration in the variety of dinner ideas you can create together. From a tangy twist on traditional tacos to a favorite to-go flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen, the options are nearly endless when you use versatile, ready-to-use ingredients.
When you include protein that’s prepared, seasoned and precooked, you can cut down on time in the kitchen, while adding precious seconds to spend with loved ones. For example, Chef’s Craft® Gourmet Chicken offers a line of gluten-free, preservative-free, all-natural chicken skillfully crafted by experts and perfectly suited for culinary creations. The varieties are always fresh and perfect for preparing in 30 minutes or less. They can be enjoyed on their own or in an array of family dishes.
Consider these Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos to call loved ones to the table with chunks of tender chicken piled high with homemade spicy vinegar slaw, fried onions and avocado drizzled with barbecue sauce and ranch dressing.
Or, for a taste of takeout you can make in your own home, turn to Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry. If you don’t own a wok, don’t fret – this dish can easily be made in a skillet. Just be sure to give the veggies enough room as a crowded skillet is likely to result in steamed veggies.
Find more quick, convenient family meal ideas, as well as a store locator, at chefscraftgourmet.com.
Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos
Servings: 4
Spicy Vinegar Slaw:
- 2 1/2 cups shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 2 jalapenos, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
Fried Onions:
- canola or vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
- 1 yellow or Vidalia onion, cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 8 taco-sized flour tortillas, warmed
- 1 package Chef’s Craft® Breaded Chicken Chunks, cooked according to package directions
- spicy vinegar slaw
- 1 avocado, chopped
- fried onions
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- chopped cilantro (optional)
- To make spicy vinegar slaw: In medium mixing bowl, combine cabbage, carrot and jalapenos.
- In separate small bowl, whisk oil, vinegar and sugar; season generously with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle over coleslaw mix and stir to combine. Let sit at least 10 minutes before serving.
- To make fried onions: In small skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 inch oil.
- In small bowl, season flour well with salt and pepper. Coat onion slices in flour mixture and shake to remove excess flour.
- Fry in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 30-45 seconds per batch. Remove to paper towel-lined plate and immediately sprinkle with salt.
- Top each tortilla with cooked breaded chicken chunks, spicy vinegar slaw, chopped avocado, fried onions, barbecue sauce and ranch dressing. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Honey Soy Glaze:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 6 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon dried ground ginger
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- 3 teaspoons water
- 2 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 3 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large zucchini, sliced
- 4 ounces snow peas
- 10 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 2-3 cups broccoli florets, steamed to tender crisp
- 1 package Chef’s Craft® Chicken Breast Fillets, cooked according to package directions, sliced
- sesame seeds, for garnish
- To make honey soy glaze: In small saucepan over medium heat, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, garlic and ginger. Bring to simmer. In small bowl, combine cornstarch and water; stir into honey soy sauce and let cook approximately 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
- In large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onion, pepper and zucchini; cook 2-3 minutes. Add snow peas and mushrooms; cook 2 minutes until vegetables are crisp tender but maintain texture.
- Add broccoli and chicken to pan; stir all but 3 tablespoons sauce; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Drizzle with remaining sauce and garnish with sesame seeds.
Source: Wayne Farms
Hearty, Wholesome Dishes to Support Immune Systems
(Family Features) If feeding your family wholesome meals is a daily goal, keep in mind you can serve up tasty foods that also feed your immune system by including ingredients like mushrooms. With their earthy flavor, mushrooms – like many other fruits and vegetables – can also play a positive role in supporting a healthy immune system.
Studies at Oregon State University concluded there are a variety of micronutrients important for supporting a healthy immune system. Consider that three of these nutrients (vitamin D, selenium and B vitamins) can be found in mushrooms, meaning these family-friendly recipes for Roasted Chicken Thighs and Veggies with Mushroom Orzo Risotto; Grilled Portobello Gyros with Yogurt Dill Sauce; Creamy Spinach, Mushroom and Lasagna Soup; and Asian Barbecue Sesame Salmon with Noodles and Veggies can help you add all-important nutrients to your family’s menu.
Find more ways to add mushrooms to family meals at mushroomcouncil.com.
Grilled Portobello Gyros with Yogurt Dill Sauce
Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice”
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
- 4 portobello mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 yellow bell peppers, sliced
Yogurt Dill Sauce:
- 1 English cucumber, grated
- 1 cup whole-milk
Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 small lemon, juice only
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill
- 4 pita breads or naan
- 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 head green lettuce
- crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Remove stems from mushrooms and brush caps with wet towel. Using spoon, carefully scrape out gills. Slice mushrooms into 1/4-inch pieces and place in medium bowl with olive oil, oregano and smoked paprika.
- Preheat indoor grill pan over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and peppers; grill, tossing occasionally, until tender, 5-7 minutes.
- To make yogurt dill sauce: Squeeze grated cucumber in clean towel to remove excess liquid. Add to large bowl with yogurt, sour cream, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt and dill. Stir to combine.
- To serve, place mushrooms and peppers in middle of pita bread. Top with tomatoes, onion, lettuce, feta, if desired, and big dollop of yogurt dill sauce.
Creamy Spinach, Mushroom and Lasagna Soup
Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice”
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, small diced
- 8 ounces crimini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 6 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping
- Heat large pot over medium heat.
- Add olive oil, garlic, onion and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions and mushrooms soften, 4-5 minutes.
- Add marinara, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, basil, salt, oregano, pepper, bay leaf and broth. Bring to boil over high heat then reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Add lasagna noodles and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and remove bay leaf.
- Stir in heavy cream and spinach until wilted, 2-3 minutes.
- Divide between bowls and top with dollop of ricotta and sprinkle of mozzarella.
Roasted Chicken Thighs and Veggies with Mushroom Orzo Risotto
Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice”
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Chicken:
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 16 ounces crimini mushrooms, quartered
- 3 zucchini, sliced in half moons
- 3 large carrots, thinly sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves removed and roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Orzo:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 16 ounces crimini mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup white wine
- 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- To make chicken: Preheat oven to 450 F.
- Pat chicken dry. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. In large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Sear chicken until browned, 4-5 minutes on each side.
- In large bowl, toss mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, garlic and rosemary. On large baking sheet, spread vegetables. Nestle chicken into vegetables. Drizzle with butter and juices from pan.
- Bake 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- To make orzo: In small pot over medium-low heat, warm broth.
- Using skillet from chicken, add butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions soften, 3-4 minutes.
- Add orzo and black pepper. Stir and cook 2 minutes. Add white wine and cook until evaporated, about 1 minute.
- Add warm broth to orzo 2/3 cup at a time, stirring until liquid is absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth, waiting until last batch is absorbed before adding more. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan.
- Serve in individual bowls with chicken and roasted vegetables atop mushroom orzo risotto.
Asian Barbecue Sesame Salmon with Noodles and Veggies
Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice”
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 1/2 pounds salmon (4 filets)
- 12 ounces stir-fry (pad thai) rice noodles
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 pound white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup sugar snap peas
- 1 large broccoli head, cut into bite-size florets
- 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- sesame seeds, for garnish
- Preheat oven to 400 F.
- In small saucepan, whisk soy sauce; brown sugar; rice vinegar; garlic; ginger; chili garlic sauce, if desired; sesame oil; and barbecue sauce. Bring to boil over high heat then reduce heat to simmer.
- In small bowl, whisk water and cornstarch. Pour into pan and cook on low, whisking often, until sauce thickens, 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Pour 3 tablespoons sauce into small bowl. Brush salmon filets with reserved sauce and place on baking sheet. Bake 15 minutes, or until salmon is flaky. Discard small bowl sauce if any remains.
- Cook stir-fry noodles according to package directions. Drain, rinse and set aside.
- Heat large skillet over medium heat. Add sesame oil. Add mushrooms, snap peas and broccoli. Cook, stirring often, until veggies are tender-crisp, 7-8 minutes. Add noodles and remaining sauce from pan; toss to combine.
- To serve, divide noodles, veggies and salmon between plates.
- Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Source: Mushroom Council
Protect Your Health with a Heart-Smart Eating Plan
(Family Features) As people have spent more time at home, many have rediscovered the simple joy of home-cooking and stumbled upon a secret weapon for health at the same time. By making smart, intentional decisions from breakfast to dinner and every meal (and drink) in-between, they are supporting strong bodies.
A heart-smart eating plan is especially important for more than 30 million people in the U.S. living with type 2 diabetes who are at double the risk for heart disease and stroke compared to those without diabetes, according to the American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association’s Know Diabetes by Heart initiative. When managing diabetes and heart health, building a consistent eating plan with the right balance can be a powerful tool.
Healthy eating provides benefits for the whole family whether members are managing existing health conditions or not. This recipe for Baked Parmesan Chicken is packed with 30 grams of protein in each serving yet delivers only 280 calories. For a tasty way to increase vegetable intake, try pairing the no-sugar chicken dish with Green Beans with Mushrooms and Onions.
A key to feeling your best begins with the first meal of the day. Start the morning on a nutritious note with this Ham and Broccoli Frittata – a low-sugar, low-fat, low-calorie alternative to traditional fat- and sugar-laden breakfast foods. With this recipe, you’re setting yourself up for a healthy day and getting the energy you need to live it to the fullest.
Find more recipes and learn more about managing the connection between diabetes and heart health at KnowDiabetesbyHeart.org/Recipes.
Baked Parmesan Chicken
Recipe courtesy of Know Diabetes by Heart
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 18 minutes
Servings: 4 (3 ounces chicken per serving)
- Cooking spray
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup finely crushed, low-sodium, whole-grain crispbread
- 1/3 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 ounces each), all visible fat discarded, flattened to 1/4-inch thickness
- Preheat the oven to 400 F. Lightly spray a 13-by-9-by-2-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a shallow dish, whisk the egg, water and oil. In a separate shallow dish or pie pan, stir together the crispbread, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano and pepper. Dip the chicken in the egg mixture then in crumb mixture, turning to coat at each step and gently shaking off any excess. Using fingertips, gently press the coating mixture so it adheres to the chicken. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the baking dish. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink in the center and the top coating is golden brown.
Nutritional information per serving: 280 calories; 80 calories from fat; 9 g total fat; 2.5 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 1 g polyunsaturated fat; 4 g monounsaturated fat; 125 mg cholesterol; 340 mg sodium; 530 mg potassium; 18 g total carbohydrate; 4 g dietary fiber; 0 g sugar; 0 g added sugar; 30 g protein; 370 mg phosphorus. Choices/Exchanges: 1 starch, 4 lean protein.
Ham and Broccoli Frittata
Recipe courtesy of Know Diabetes by Heart
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (1/4 frittata per serving)
- Cooking spray
- 2 cups frozen fat-free potatoes O’Brien, thawed
- 6 ounces small broccoli florets, rinsed in cold water, drained but not dried
- 8 large egg whites
- 1 large egg
- 4 ounces lower-sodium, low-fat ham (uncured, nitrate/nitrite-free), cut into 1/4-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup fat-free milk
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Preheat the oven to 400 F.
- Lightly spray a medium ovenproof skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium heat. Remove from the heat. Put the potatoes in the skillet. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- In a microwaveable bowl, microwave the broccoli, covered, on high for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain in a colander. Stir the broccoli into the potatoes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the egg whites and egg. Whisk in the ham, milk and pepper. Pour the mixture over the potatoes and broccoli; stir well.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
Nutritional information per serving: 180 calories; 30 calories from fat; 3 g total fat; 1 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 0.5 g polyunsaturated fat; 1.5 g monounsaturated fat; 60 mg cholesterol; 460 mg sodium; 570 mg potassium; 17 g total carbohydrate; 2 g dietary fiber; 4 g sugar; 1 g added sugar; 18 g protein; 210 mg phosphorus. Choices/Exchanges: 1 carbohydrate, 2 lean protein.
Green Beans with Mushrooms and Onions
Recipe courtesy of Know Diabetes by Heart
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 (1/2 cup per serving)
- Water
- 8 ounces green beans, trimmed
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 4 ounces sliced mushrooms, stems discarded
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced onion
- 1 medium garlic clove, minced
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 pinch pepper
- Fill a medium saucepan 3/4 full of water. Bring to a boil, covered, over high heat. Cook the green beans, uncovered, 5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain well in a colander.
- In a medium nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the mushrooms, onion, garlic and salt 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft and lightly browned, stirring frequently. Stir in the lemon juice, pepper and cooked green beans.
Nutritional information per serving: 60 calories; 25 calories from fat; 2.5 g total fat; 0.5 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 0.5 g polyunsaturated fat; 1.5 g monounsaturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 60 mg sodium; 300 mg potassium; 9 g total carbohydrate; 2 g dietary fiber; 4 g sugar; 0 g added sugar; 2 g protein; 70 mg phosphorus. Choices/Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
Source: American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association
Cuban Chicken with Salsa Fresca
(Culinary.net) If your family ever gets stuck in a dinner routine rut, it can feel like you’re eating the same recipes over and over again.
However, this fresh and unique recipe for Cuban Chicken with Salsa Fresca might inspire you to think outside the culinary box and give your family members the satisfactory flavor they desire at dinnertime. With fresh ingredients and a wholesome flavor, this meal is perfect to add to your dinner menu rotation.
The chicken is full of flavor and baked using multiple seasonings to create a Cuban-like taste. The salsa fresca, which is added on top of the chicken, is a tad sweet with grapefruit segments and juice, but also satisfying with jicama, onion, cilantro and jalapeno. It adds so much color to your plate, and all these flavors mash together for something unique and special.
To start, create the marinade for your chicken and let it rest to allow all those wonderful spices to do their jobs. Set it in the fridge for 30 minutes or more.
Next, it’s time to make the salsa fresca. Start by chopping red onion and jicama then add grapefruit and jalapeno to the mix. Add grapefruit juice, olive oil and, finally, cilantro. Stir well with a large spoon until everything is combined.
Once the chicken is baked, cut it and assemble. The final result is a juicy chicken breast with a sweet yet crisp salsa topping. The flavors in this dish harmonize together to bring you a bite you have likely never experienced before.
This meal is also nutritious with fresh fruit and lean chicken, so it’s a meal almost anyone can enjoy, even if you’re on a healthy eating kick.
Find more recipes and family dinner ideas at Culinary.net.
Watch video to see how to make this recipe!
Cuban Chicken with Salsa Fresca
Servings: 5
- 1 cup grapefruit juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salsa Fresca:
- 1 cup grapefruit segments
- 1/2 jicama, cubed
- 1/2 red onion, chopped
- 3/4 cup grapefruit juice
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
- Heat oven to 400 F.
- In large bowl, mix grapefruit juice, oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika and red pepper until combined. Add chicken to bowl and turn to coat. Refrigerate 30 minutes or longer.
- To make salsa fresca: In medium bowl, mix grapefruit segments, jicama, red onion, grapefruit juice, olive oil, cilantro and jalapeno pepper until combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Remove chicken from marinade. Place chicken in baking dish. Bake 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve chicken with salsa fresca.
Easy Ways to Eat More Plants This Year
(Family Features) Plant-forward eating should be easy and delicious – and it can be. Rather than follow strict rules, simply add plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans and grains to more meals throughout the day.
Walnuts, for example, are a kitchen multi-tasker with uses well beyond baked goods. In fact, walnuts can be used as a simple, whole-food meat alternative. One ounce of walnuts contains important nutrients including 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat, 13 grams of polyunsaturated fat and 2.5 grams of essential omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid.
Try walnuts as an alternative to meat in recipes like Walnut Meatless Meatballs or Pizza with Plant-Based Walnut Crumble, and find more plant-forward recipes at walnuts.org/plantrecipes.
Walnut Meatless Meatballs
Total time: 42 minutes
Servings: 4
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup minced onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup California Walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup cooked brown rice
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
- 1 egg, beaten
- Preheat oven to 375 F and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In small skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and garlic; saute 1 minute. Add tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Transfer to food processor with walnuts, rice, roasted red peppers, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, parsley and egg. Pulse until combined but not mushy.
- Form into eight equal balls and place on prepared baking sheet. Cook 12 minutes, or until firm to touch. Serve with sauce of choice.
Pizza with Plant-Based Walnut Crumble
Total time: 38 minutes
Servings: 4
Walnut Sausage Crumble:
- 1 cup California Walnuts
- 1/2 cup cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fennel seeds
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
Walnut Sausage Pizza:
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 6 tablespoons pizza sauce
- 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese, divided
- Walnut Sausage Crumble, divided
- 6 tablespoons pesto
- 1/4 cup sliced small tomatoes
- fresh basil leaves
- shaved Parmesan cheese
- To make Walnut Sausage Crumble: In food processor, pulse walnuts, cannellini beans, coconut aminos, olive oil, fennel seeds, seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika and salt to sausage like consistency.
- To make Walnut Sausage Pizza: Preheat oven to 500 F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide dough into four pieces and roll out into thin ovals; place on baking sheets.
- Spread two dough pieces with equal amounts pizza sauce, 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese and half of Walnut Sausage Crumble.
- Spread remaining dough pieces with pesto, remaining cheese, remaining Walnut Sausage Crumble and tomatoes.
- Bake 8 minutes, or until pizza edges are golden brown. Garnish with basil leaves and shaved Parmesan.
Source: California Walnuts
Power Family Meals with Protein-Packed Peanuts
(Family Features) Starting fresh with a new year is a chance to hit the reset button for many people, and your family can use this opportunity to rethink homemade meals while striving for nutritious (and still delicious) dishes. From snacks to the main course each evening, the options are nearly endless for planning a revamped menu with healthier ingredients.
Dinnertime can be a cinch with Peanut Butter Chicken, a simple dish that takes less than 20 minutes to make when busy evenings call for a quick solution. If a veggie-based option aligns better with your family's desires, try Veggie Sammies with Peanut Butter Satay Sauce or go full-on comfort food with Very Vegan Peanut Butter Jackfruit Chili. Snacking doesn't have to mean forgoing your dedication to nutritious choices either - these Peanut Granola Bars can be your made-at-home masterpiece for adults and children to enjoy.
These recipes from the Georgia Peanut Commission are powered by peanuts, a nutrient-rich superfood that delivers 19 vitamins and 7 grams of protein per serving for a health benefit punch in each bite.
Discover more nutritious recipe ideas at gapeanuts.com.
Veggie Sammies with Peanut Butter Satay Sauce
Prep time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2
- 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 teaspoons hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- 2 French baguette rolls (6 inches each)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup white onion, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- In small bowl, combine peanut butter, lime juice, water, hoisin sauce, soy sauce and sriracha; mix well.
- Spread sauce on both sides of each roll then layer with cucumber, onion and bell pepper. Top with cabbage and cilantro.
Very Vegan Peanut Butter Jackfruit Chili
Recipe courtesy of the National Peanut Board
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8
- 2 teaspoons oil
- 1/2 large white onion, chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 can whole tomatoes
- 2 cups water
- 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can green jackfruit, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- cornbread (optional)
- tortilla chips (optional)
- cinnamon rolls (optional)
- eat large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add oil, onion and peppers; cook 3 minutes, stirring often. Add garlic, salt, cumin, chili powder and tomato paste, stirring to coat. Cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, then stir in crushed tomatoes, whole tomatoes, water, kidney beans and jackfruit; bring to boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 25-30 minutes. Stir in peanut butter and simmer 5 minutes.
- Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips or cinnamon rolls, if desired.
Peanut Granola Bars
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes, plus 30-45 minutes cooling time
Servings: 12-14
- 1/2 cup honey
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups rolled oats (quick or regular)
- 1 cup bran flakes
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, blueberries or cranberries)
- 1 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- In large, shallow, microwavable dish, combine honey, butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla and salt. Microwave at 50% power 2 minutes then whisk to combine and microwave at 50% power 2 minutes.
- Add oats, bran flakes, coconut flakes, dried fruit and peanuts; stir to combine. Microwave on high 1 minute. Stir and microwave 30 seconds.
- Press mixture into 13-by-9-inch baking dish lined with parchment or wax paper with some extra hanging over edges to easily lift bars out. Use bottom of glass wrapped with plastic wrap to press granola mixture firmly into pan. Allow to cool completely 30-45 minutes. Cut into 12-14 bars.
Peanut Butter Chicken
Recipe courtesy of "Unsophisticook"
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Yield: 6 cups
Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons sweet red chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/8-1/4 cup hot water (optional)
- chopped unsalted roasted peanuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 3/4 cup peanut sauce
- cooked brown rice
- assorted bell peppers, sliced
- chopped unsalted roasted peanuts (optional)
- To make peanut sauce: In small glass bowl, whisk peanut butter, sweet red chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce and honey until blended smoothly.
- Thin sauce with hot water to desired consistency. Garnish with chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, if desired.
- To make chicken: In large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle oil. Add diced chicken then pour soy sauce over top. Saute about 10-12 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve with peanut sauce, brown rice and colorful sliced veggies. Garnish with chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, if desired.
Source: Georgia Peanut Commission
Filling Family Comfort Foods
Family Features) Just the thought of comfort foods is often enough to warm the soul, especially as cool winds blow and temperatures drop. When cooler weather calls for hearty meals to give your family a warming boost, you can turn to simple shortcuts for comforting flavor without skipping on quality.
It's hard to go wrong with a casserole on a chilly day. This Chicken and Rice Casserole with Spinach and Mushrooms is made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Because it takes just 20 minutes to make, this recipe is easy to put on the table quickly and may become a new family favorite. Plus, you only use a couple of dishes to prepare, which makes for a simple cleanup after a filling meal.
Parmesan Stuffed Peppers with Rice is the perfect recipe if you are looking for a tasty dish that's a little outside the box. It's an Italian spin on a classic dish using a variety of cheeses packed into colorful bell peppers. You can preheat the oven while completing the minimal preparation then bake to a bubbling, golden perfection.
The convenience, taste, texture and quality of Success Brown Rice as one of the main ingredients in these recipes helps make mealtime a cinch. In fact, any variety can be used in this recipe, including white rice, quinoa and more. Its "Boil-in-Bag" cooking process provides a satisfying shortcut as you simply add water to a saucepan, drop the BPA-free bag into the water, boil for 10 minutes and remove with a fork for a no mess, no measure timesaver.
Visit SuccessRice.com for more comfort food recipes.
Chicken and Rice Casserole with Spinach and Mushrooms
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
- 1 bag Success Brown Rice
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/3 cup chopped onions
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 package (4 ounces) mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 4 cups baby spinach leaves
- 2 cups shredded, cooked chicken breast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Prepare rice according to package directions. In small bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan and parsley; reserve.
- In large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onions and garlic; saute 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and wine to skillet. Continue cooking 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add spinach and chicken. Stir until spinach is wilted and chicken is heated through, about 2 minutes. Stir in rice, salt and pepper.
- Serve casserole topped with dollops of reserved cheese mixture.
Parmesan Stuffed Peppers with Rice
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
- 2 bags Success Brown Rice
- 2 cups (or 1 can, 15 ounces) tomato sauce, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 3 large bell peppers in assorted colors, halved lengthwise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Preheat oven to 425 F. Prepare rice according to package directions.
- Add 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce to greased 13-by-9-inch baking dish. In bowl, toss rice with remaining tomato sauce, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and pesto.
- Divide rice mixture evenly among peppers. Place stuffed peppers in prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese over peppers.
- Cover with foil; bake 18-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender, filling is heated through and cheese is melted. Remove foil. Broil 3-5 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown. Garnish with fresh basil.
Substitutions: Use fontina or provolone for mozzarella cheese and olive tapenade for basil pesto.
Source: Success Rice
Put a Zesty Spin on Weeknight Meals
(Family Features) Dinner in many households means foolproof recipes that families can count on, but those can become bland and boring. Finding new ways to put a twist on meals throughout the week adds fun to time spent in the kitchen while bringing new flavor to the table.
To help reinvigorate traditional weeknight dinners, chef Bobby Flay and Hidden Valley Ranch created the three-part Hidden Valley Ranch Night! series to debut dishes that bring bold flavor to traditional meals, such as these recipes for Ranch Crusted Burgers with Avocado Ranch Sauce and Ranch Seasoned Chicken and Mushroom Quesadillas with Tomato Salsa and Sour Cream. The series will provide a spin on weeknight staples to showcase the simplicity, versatility and zesty flavor of ranch seasoning when used to create family-friendly dinners any night of the week.
Find more information, including series episodes and additional recipes, at hiddenvalley.com/ranch-night.
Ranch Crusted Burgers with Avocado Ranch Sauce
Servings: 4
Avocado Ranch Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon well-shaken buttermilk
- 1/2 teaspoon Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 avocados, peeled, pitted and diced
Ranch Spice Crusted Burger:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- kosher salt
- freshly ground pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds ground chuck (80% lean)
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 8 slices American cheese
- 1/4 cup water
- 4 brioche buns, split in half
- Avocado Ranch Sauce
- To make avocado ranch sauce: In bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, ranch seasoning, salt and pepper until smooth. Fold in green onions and diced avocados; set aside.
- To make burgers: In small bowl, whisk ranch seasoning, paprika, salt and pepper.
- Heat large cast-iron pan or griddle over high heat. Divide meat into four 6-ounce patties and make deep depression in centers with thumb. Season each with spice rub on one side.
- Add canola oil to pan and heat until shimmering. Place on burgers in pan, spice side down, and cook until golden brown and lightly charred, 4 minutes. Turn burgers over and cook 4 minutes, or until they reach desired doneness.
- Top each burger with two slices cheese. Add water to pan and cover tightly with lid 10 seconds, or until the cheese is melted.
- Place burgers on bottom buns and top each with avocado ranch sauce and top buns.
Ranch Seasoned Chicken and Mushroom Quesadillas with Tomato Salsa and Sour Cream
Servings: 4
Tomato Salsa:
- 4 plum tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 jalapeno, finely diced
- 1 lime, juice only
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped into ribbons
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
Quesadillas:
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 1/2 pounds cremini or button mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning, divided
- 12 flour tortillas (6 inches)
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 16 ounces roasted or rotisserie chicken, shredded
- kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper
- canola oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- tomato salsa
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- To make tomato salsa: In medium bowl, combine tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno, lime juice, olive oil and basil; season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- To make quesadillas: Preheat oven to 450 F.
- In large saute pan over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add mushrooms and season with 1 1/2 teaspoons ranch seasoning. Cook until mushrooms are golden brown and liquid has evaporated. Set aside to cool.
- Place tortillas next to each other on baking sheet. Sprinkle thin layer of cheese on eight tortillas. Add cooled mushrooms to four tortillas and shredded chicken to other four tortillas. Season each layer with salt and pepper. Stack tortillas to create four, two-layer quesadillas. Cover each with remaining tortillas; brush top tortillas lightly with canola oil and sprinkle with remaining ranch seasoning.
- Bake 6-8 minutes until cheese is melted and tortillas turn lightly golden brown with crispy edges.
- Cut each quesadilla into four pieces. Garnish each slice with dollop of sour cream. Add dollop of tomato salsa on top of sour cream and garnish with basil.
Source: Hidden Valley Ranch
Uncovering the Top Mexican Food Trends for 2021
(Family Features) Many families constantly search for meal inspiration, and one of the best ways is to look toward trendy tastes for new options to add to the menu.
One of the country’s top Hispanic food brands, Cacique, tapped culinary experts and chefs Aarón Sánchez, Bricia Lopez and Santiago Gomez to curate the third annual “What’s Next in Mexican Cuisine” trends forecast uncovering popular flavors, techniques and dishes to expect in the coming year.
“One way we can all honor the impact of Latin culture in America is through food,” Sánchez said. “One easy step you can take to connect with a culture is by using authentic ingredients, like in this Chorizo Ragu with Cheesy Toast, which uses three staple Mexican ingredients – queso fresco, crema Mexicana and chorizo. It’s inspired by my prediction that Mexican comfort foods and deep, rich sauces made from scratch will rise in popularity.”
Consider these top Mexican food trends for 2021 according to Sánchez, Lopez and Gomez along with findings from a survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Cacique:
- The bread baking craze of 2020 will now include homemade corn and flour tortillas with 55% of Americans reaching for masa harina, flour and tortilla presses to make their own.
- Americans have a thirst for dehydrated chiles with varieties ranging from pasillas to anchos set to become more popular in American kitchens.
- Dried chiles, beans and cheeses such as queso fresco will find their way into more American kitchens as people adopt a “from scratch” approach and back-to-basics techniques.
- Coziness, meet Cozumel as Mexican comfort foods reign supreme and people gravitate toward nostalgic “homemade” style favorites like enchiladas.
- Get ready to dive into deep, rich sauces, including mole, which will continue to grow in popularity.
- Salsa macha will share the spotlight thanks to exploration of the breadth of salsa varieties that exist within Mexican cuisine.
- Food exploration will satisfy Americans’ wanderlust as 55% plan to travel less in 2021, and the same percentage report they’re looking to learn the stories behind famous Mexican recipes.
To find more trend-inspired recipes, visit caciqueinc.com.
Chorizo Ragu with Cheesy Toast
Recipe courtesy of chef Aarón Sánchez
- 3 bolillo-style rolls or 1 long baguette
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow or white onion, chopped
- 2-3 carrots, chopped
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 6 cloves garlic, divided
- 8 ounces white or cremini mushrooms, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 1⁄4 pounds ground beef
- 1 package (9 ounces) Cacique Pork Chorizo
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed or pureed tomatoes
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 9 tablespoons Cacique Crema Mexicana, plus additional for serving
- 1 1⁄2 cups crumbled Cacique Ranchero Queso Fresco
- Preheat oven to 400 F. Halve bread lengthwise.
- In heavy-bottomed pot, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots and salt then cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables just start to soften, 3-4 minutes. Mince 2 garlic cloves and add to pot with mushrooms; cook about 3 minutes.
- Use spoon to push vegetables to edges of pan then add tomato paste, oregano and cumin to center of pan; saute until fragrant, 1-2 minutes.
- Increase heat to high and add beef and pork chorizo. Break meat up with spoon but don’t over-stir. When beef is no longer pink, pour in tomatoes and bring to simmer. Decrease heat to medium-high and let simmer, stirring occasionally.
- While ragu simmers, use fork to mash or whip butter with crema until smooth. Mince or finely grate remaining garlic cloves then stir into crema mixture.
- Spread crema mixture evenly over bread, trying to cover as much area as possible. Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco all over and place bread on rimmed baking sheet, cheese side up. Toast 4-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling. Finish under broiler 30-60 seconds for deeper browning, if desired. Cut bread into individual portions.
- After about 20 minutes of simmering, ragu should thicken and flavors meld. Swirl in additional crema then serve ragu in bowls with cheesy toast or ladle over pieces of toast.
Source: Cacique
Flavorful Holiday Dishes Prepped in Minutes for Small Gatherings
(Family Features) In what’s certain to be a holiday season unlike any other, you can transform your seasonal menu in 20 minutes of prep time or less by incorporating flavorful ingredients that make ordinary dishes extraordinary, ensuring the holidays are as special and memorable as any other year.
Stress-free holiday entertaining at home begins with ingredients like Holland House Cooking Wines that add an extra boost of flavor to recipes like Tuscan White Bean Soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe combines pantry staples and enticing seasonings for an easy-to-make soup that simmers in the slow cooker. This Sherry, Ham and Cheese Brunch Bake is another delicious and convenient recipe to feed your family on early holiday mornings. This simple, tasty brunch bake can be easily prepped the night before.
While holiday gatherings may be smaller this year, spending time with family can be made even more special when sharing a homemade, holiday-inspired meal. Sherry Cherry Pork Loin Roast, made in a time-saving slow cooker, provides an easy way to bring your family together for a flavorful holiday meal.
This festive season, Holland House Cooking Wines provide an easy way to delight your family. They’re available in four flavors – Marsala, Sherry, White and Red – made using fine grapes and blended seasonings, aged to perfection, to offer bold flavor to your holiday cooking.
Visit hollandhouseflavors.com to find more holiday-worthy dishes.
Sherry Cherry Pork Loin Roast
Recipe courtesy of Cate Meade of “Cate’s Kitchen Fit”
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 5-6 hours
Servings: 8-10
- 7 tablespoons avocado or grapeseed oil, divided
- 2 large Vidalia onions, halved and thinly sliced
- 4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 1 pork loin roast (4-4 1/2 pounds), trimmed and patted dry
- 3 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, divided
Sherry Cherry Sauce:
- 3/4 cup Holland House Sherry Cooking Wine
- 5-6 cloves garlic
- 1 cup frozen Bing cherries, divided
- 1 1/2 tablespoons dry mustard powder
- 4 tablespoons Holland House Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, large stems removed, plus additional reserved for garnish
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)
- In large slow cooker on high heat, add 2 tablespoons oil, sliced onions and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Season roast evenly on all sides with 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon pepper.
- Place large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons oil to pan. Sear pork loin 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer roast to slow cooker on top of onions.
- Cover and cook on low 3 hours.
- To make Sherry Cherry Sauce: In blender, blend sherry cooking wine, garlic, 1/2 cup cherries, mustard powder, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, parsley, remaining olive oil, remaining salt and remaining pepper until smooth; set aside.
- After pork loin cooks 3 hours, add Sherry Cherry Sauce around pork roast. Cover and cook 2-3 hours on low.
- To glaze, brush roast with warm sauce 3-4 times in last hour of cooking.
- Once pork reaches internal temperature of 145 F, remove and let rest 15-20 minutes before slicing.
- To finish sauce, remove 1/4 cup cooking liquid and mix with cornstarch to make a slurry. Whisk slurry and remaining cherries into sauce. Cook in slow cooker on high 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Slice roast 1/2-inch thick, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with Sherry Cherry Sauce and braised onions.
Tuscan White Bean Soup
Recipe courtesy of Jillian Wade of “Food, Folks & Fun”
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours
Servings: 8
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup Holland House White Cooking Wine
- 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced small
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 6 large cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cans (15 1/2 ounces each) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (13 3/4 ounces) artichoke hearts, rinsed and drained
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 cups kale (about 6 ounces), cleaned, destemmed and chopped
- 5 ounces pancetta or bacon, diced
- 8 teaspoons Parmesan cheese, shaved (for garnish)
- Place chicken stock, white cooking wine, tomatoes, onion, celery, carrots, garlic, cannellini beans, artichoke hearts, bay leaf, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper and rosemary in slow cooker. Cover and cook on low 7-8 hours or high 4-5 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving soup, stir in kale and cover.
- In 10-inch skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta until crispy, about 4 minutes. Move pancetta to paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with pancetta and Parmesan cheese shavings.
Sherry, Ham and Cheese Brunch Bake
Recipe courtesy of Jillian Wade of “Food, Folks & Fun”
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour, 20 minutes
Servings: 10
- 8 tablespoons salted butter, melted, plus additional for greasing pan, divided
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 large shallots, minced
- 1/2 cup Holland House Sherry Cooking Wine
- 1 package (20 ounces) frozen hash brown potatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces precooked ham, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 8 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped dill, for garnish (optional)
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
- Move oven rack to middle position and preheat to 400 F. Generously grease 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter; set aside.
- In 10-inch nonstick skillet, add olive oil and preheat pan over medium heat. Add shallots and cook, stirring often, until softened and golden, about 7-8 minutes.
- Stir in cooking wine and cook until liquid is evaporated, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Add frozen hash browns to prepared baking dish. Pour melted butter over potatoes and add salt, pepper and caramelized shallots.
- Use spoon to mix well. Bake 30 minutes, or until potatoes are cooked through and some edges are beginning to brown. Remove potatoes from oven and reduce temperature to 325 F.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over potatoes followed by ham.
- In large measuring cup or small bowl, vigorously whisk eggs, milk, mustard powder and dill until fully combined and eggs become frothy, about 1 minute.
- Pour egg mixture evenly over potatoes, cheese and ham. Store covered in refrigerator if prepping night before.
- Bake 35-40 minutes, or until edges of casserole are golden brown and center of casserole is set.
- Cool 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with chopped dill and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Source: Holland House