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OAMC Buttermilk Biscuits

OAMC Buttermilk Biscuits

OAMC Buttermilk Biscuits

Biscuits are one of those rare things that actually improve when frozen (pie dough and cookie dough also fall into this category). It’s likely about the butter. For this recipe, we use the grated frozen butter method. This technique suspends little butter flakes throughout the dough, which rise and create flaky pastry during cooking. Freezing the dough before baking ensures the fat and milk solids stay put (essential for creating a flaky result).

21/2 pounds self-rising flour (9 cups), plus more if needed

1 T. kosher salt

1 pound unsalted butter, frozen

4 cups whole (full-fat) buttermilk

Unsalted butter or jam, for serving (optional)

 

In a large bowl, stir together the flour and salt. Using the large holes of a box grater, grate the frozen butter into the flour mixture, stirring and coating the butter with flour as you grate. Once all of the butter is in, use a pastry blender to distribute the butter evenly in the flour. It should have a pebbly texture. Next, pour in the buttermilk and, using your hands, incorporate it with the flour mixture until a shaggy dough ball forms. Turn the dough out onto a well-floured work surface and, still using your hands, carefully pat it into a loaf shape, incorporating more flour as needed until the dough is not sticky and is easy to manipulate. Gently pat the dough out into an even layer about 3/4 inch thick. Using a 2½-inch round biscuit cutter, and firmly pressing straight down (without twisting the cutter), punch out as many biscuits as possible. Gather up the dough scraps and gently form into a ball. Press the dough out into a ¾-inch-thick layer and repeat to punch out more biscuits until you have about 24 total. TO FREEZE: Arrange the cut biscuit dough on a rimmed baking sheet and freeze for at least 4 hours or up to overnight for a formative freeze (see this page). Transfer to a gallon-size zip-top plastic bag, label and date, and freeze for up to 4 months. TO BAKE: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the biscuits, with their edges touching, on a rimmed baking sheet and top each with a small pat of butter. Bake for 10 to 13 minutes from room temperature or 14 to 16 minutes from frozen, until puffed and golden brown on top. Serve warm, with more butter or jam for spreading if you like.

Lasagna Casserole

Lasagna Casserole

Lasagna Casserole

 

1 pound ground beef

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper, divided

1 pound medium pasta shells, cooked and drained

4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided

3 cups 4% cottage cheese

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 T. dried parsley flakes

1 jar (24 ounces) pasta sauce

 

In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink, breaking meat into crumbles; drain. Sprinkle with salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper; set aside. In a large bowl, combine pasta, 3 cups mozzarella cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley and the remaining pepper. Transfer to a greased shallow 3-qt. or 13×9-in. baking dish. Top with beef mixture and spaghetti sauce (dish will be full). Cover and bake at 350° for 45 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake, uncovered, until bubbly and cheese is melted, 15 minutes longer. Let stand for 10 minutes before. To Freeze: Sprinkle casserole with remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover and freeze unbaked casserole. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake casserole as directed, increasing time as necessary until heated through and a thermometer inserted in center reads 165°.

Chicken Thighs with Lime and Honey

Chicken Thighs with Lime and Honey

Chicken Thighs with Lime and Honey

 

12 boneless skinless chicken thighs

3 large limes, juice and zest of

8 ounces liquid honey

1 T. grated fresh ginger

1 garlic clove, crushed (optional)

 

Combine lime juice, lime zest, honey, ginger, and garlic in a large ziploc bag. Add chicken and combine well. Squeeze out as much air as possible and freeze. Remove from freezer the night before serving and defrost all day in the fridge; chicken will marinate as it defrosts. Transfer thighs to a roasting pan and bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. You can also cook this chicken on the BBQ/grill if desired.

Pesto French Bread Pizza

Pesto French Bread Pizza

Pesto French Bread Pizza

 

10 leftover meatballs, sliced into rounds

2 T. butter

1 large clove garlic, minced

2 T. flour

1 cup milk

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

½ C. pesto

1 loaf French bread

1 cup Mozzarella, grated

 

Put slices of meatball in a bowl and toss with pesto – set aside. Melt butter in a medium pot on low heat, add garlic. Cook about a minute or until just fragrant then whisk in flour. Continue stirring and cook about a minute until it becomes a thick paste. Add milk and whisk to incorporate. When it starts to thicken, add Parmesan cheese and stir well until thick & smooth. Preheat broiler. Cut french bread lengthwise and add a generous layer of the cheese sauce to both cut sides. Add a layer of meatballs and top with mozzarella. Place under the broiler until bubbly, melty and gorgeous. Slice & serve.

Slow Cooker Caramelized Onions

Slow Cooker Caramelized Onions

Slow Cooker Caramelized Onions

 

5 yellow onions, cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick slices

5 T. butter, melted

1 tsp. table salt

 

Place the onions in the crock of a slow cooker, then drizzle with the butter and salt and toss to combine. Cook on low for 12 hours. If at some point you can stir the onions, do so, but no need to set the alarm for two a.m. if you’re cooking them overnight. The onions will last in the refrigerator for 10 days, but I usually just package them in 1-cup servings and freeze for later use.

Make-Ahead Mini Spinach Frittatas

Make-Ahead Mini Spinach Frittatas

Make-Ahead Mini Spinach Frittatas

 

6 eggs

¼ C. Milk

5 oz. frozen Chopped Spinach, defrosted (can sub part or all for herbs)

2 scallions, thinly sliced

1 ¼ tsp. ground Turmeric

½ tsp. Kosher Salt

½ C. crumbled Feta Cheese

 

Preheat the oven to 325SF. Line 6 muffin cups with cupcake liners and generously grease the liners with oil or nonstick cooking spray. Crack the eggs into a medium bowl. Add the milk and whisk until combined. Drain the defrosted spinach well, pressing out as much of the liquid as you can. Add the spinach, scallions, turmeric, and salt to the eggs and whisk together. Add the feta and stir gently until just combined. Divide the egg mixture among the 6 muffin cups, filling them nearly to the top. I use a measuring cup with a handle for this. Bake the frittatas for about 30 minutes, until just firm at the top with no raw egg appearance. Remove the muffin tin from the oven. Cool for a few minutes, then run a knife around the edges to wedge the frittatas from the muffin tin. Serve warm, or allow the frittatas to come to room temperature before covering and storing in the refrigerator.

 

boost it: Swap out the spinach for 1 cup of any favorite cooked, diced vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

make ahead: This recipe can be doubled easily. Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or wrap them in plastic, put them in a resealable bag, and store them in the freezer.

Triple Batch Sam’s Meatballs

Triple Batch Sam’s Meatballs

Triple Batch Sam’s Meatballs

 

1 ½ pounds ground beef

1 ½ pounds ground pork

1 ½ pounds ground veal

1 1/2 cup ricotta

1 cup shredded Parmesan

1 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

6 large garlic cloves, minced

3 tsp. kosher salt

3 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

3 large egg

 

Makes 36 Meatballs. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Put everything into a large bowl and mix well—with your hands please, not a spoon. Roll into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until cooked all the way through.

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

 

1/2 cup ketchup

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 T. apple cider vinegar

1 clove garlic, minced

1 T. brown sugar

1 T. cornstarch

1 pound ready made mini meatballs

2 cups cooked brown rice

2 green onions, white & light green parts only, thinly sliced on an angle

sesame seeds for garnish

 

Combine first 6 ingredients in a pot and heat on the stove over medium heat until sauce comes to a slight boil – then turn down heat and simmer. Place the meatballs in the pot, simmer 10-15 minutes until heated through. Serve over rice, garnish sesame seeds and green onions on top.

Shiitake Mushroom Ramen To-Go

Shiitake Mushroom Ramen To-Go

Shiitake Mushroom Ramen To-Go

2 T. extra virgin olive oil

6 ounces shiitake mushrooms, sliced

4 T. chicken bouillon paste or broth base

1 T. low-sodium soy sauce

1 tsp. Asian-style hot sauce (such as Sriracha)

2 C. shredded carrots

5 green onions, white and green portion sliced

8 ounces Asian noodles, cooked according to package directions

1 C. diced cucumber

½ C. chopped, fresh cilantro

four 16-ounce wide-mouth jars with lids

¾ C. boiling water for each jar, when ready to serve

 

Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until browned and tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir bouillon paste, soy sauce and hot sauce in a small bowl. Spoon equal amount into bottom of each jar. Divide carrots in two portions. Sprinkle ¼ C. of carrots into each jar. Top with an equal amount of green onions and remaining carrots. Add mushrooms to jars and top with 2 ounces of noodles. Lastly, add ¼ C. of diced cucumber and 2 T. of cilantro. Store jars in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, boil ¾ C. of water. Pour water into the jar. Stir well and enjoy.

Shakshuka not just for Eggs

Shakshuka not just for Eggs

Shakshuka not just for Eggs

It’s every bit as delicious without the eggs, stashed in the freezer for a quick meal with nothing more than a piece of toast or a sprinkling of feta, or as a base for some leftover grilled chicken. If you’re a gardener with bumper crops of peppers and tomatoes, you’ll want to put up some extra quarts; it’s an easy recipe to double or even quadruple. If you use red, orange, or yellow bell peppers, the final dish will have a sweeter, less pungent flavor than if you use green, so use your favorite or what you have on hand. It’s also fine to use chicken stock rather than vegetable broth.

 

3 T. olive oil

1 medium white or yellow onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 T. pimenton de la Vera or smoked paprika

2 tsp. ground turmeric

1/2 tsp. dried thyme

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper, or to taste

2 medium bell peppers, seeded and diced

1 (15-ounce) can whole or diced tomatoes, or 2 medium fresh tomatoes, peeled and diced

1 1/2 C. vegetable broth

1/2 to 1 tsp. salt

 

In a large saucepan set over medium-high heat, warm the oil. Add the onion and stir, cooking until it is translucent and golden, about 6 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the garlic, and cook for 1 minute, until golden. Stir in the pimenton, turmeric, thyme, cayenne, and bell peppers. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers have softened. Add the tomatoes with their juice and the broth, stirring to blend. Simmer, uncovered, for 40 to 55 minutes, until the mixture has reduced to a thick sauce. Season to taste with salt. Shakshuka will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Pan-Roasted Pork Chops with Honey Riesling Grapes

Pan-Roasted Pork Chops with Honey Riesling Grapes

Pan-Roasted Pork Chops with Honey Riesling Grapes

 

4 thick, meaty bone-in or boneless pork chops

½ tsp. (2 mL) of salt

Lots of freshly ground pepper

A splash or two of vegetable oil

1 red onion, thinly sliced

2 C. (500 mL) of seedless red grapes

½ cup (125 mL) of Riesling or your favorite white wine

2 T. (30 mL) of honey

1 T. (15 mL) of white wine vinegar

Tender stems from 6 or 8 sprigs of fresh thyme, finely minced

 

Generously season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet with a tight-fitting lid over medium-high heat for a minute or two. Splash in enough vegetable oil to evenly cover the bottom of the pan. Vigorously sear the chops until they’re golden brown and crusty on both sides, 2 or 3 minutes each side. The goal here is not to fully cook the meat but to add lots of brown flavor while the pan’s temperature is still high. Toss in the onions and grapes. Turn the heat to its lowest setting, cover with the lid and cook for 5 minutes. Remove the chops to a plate and rest the meat while you quickly craft the sauce. Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the wine. Stirring gently, bring to a furious boil, quickly reducing the wine to sauce consistency. Stir in the honey, vinegar and thyme. Drench the pork chops and serve.

Refrigerate: Tightly seal the pork chops with the grapes within 30 minutes of cooking and refrigerate for up to 6 days before reheating.

Freeze: Portion, tightly seal and freeze for up to 30 days. Thaw in the refrigerator for 1 or 2 days before reheating. Tightly seal leftovers and store in the refrigerator for just a few days.

Make Ahead Baked Western Omelet

Make Ahead Baked Western Omelet

Make Ahead Baked Western Omelet

 

6 to 8 thin slices of deli ham, chopped

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

A splash of vegetable oil

12 eggs

½ cup (125 mL) of milk

2 cups (500 mL) of grated cheddar cheese

4 green onions, thinly sliced

¼ teaspoon (1 mL) of salt

Lots of freshly ground pepper

Fresh Chives for Presentation, If desired

 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Turn on your convection fan if you have one. Toss the ham, bell peppers and a splash of vegetable oil into a large ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté them until they sizzle, soften and smell delicious, 3 to 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, then whisk in the milk, cheese, green onions, salt and pepper. When the peppers are ready, pour the egg mixture into the pan and stir gently until large curds form and at least half of the egg is cooked, 2 or 3 minutes. Place the pan in the oven and bake until the omelet is firm, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve from the pan or carefully invert the omelet onto a serving plate. STORAGE TIP Refrigerate: Tightly seal the cooked omelet and refrigerate within 30 minutes of cooking. Store for up to 4 days before reheating. Freeze: Portion, tightly seal and freeze for up to 30 days. Thaw in the refrigerator for 1 or 2 days before reheating. Tightly seal leftovers and store in the refrigerator for just a few days.

Make-Ahead Freezer Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups

Make-Ahead Freezer Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups

Make-Ahead Freezer Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups

10 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed

10 fully cooked breakfast sausage links

3 large eggs

½ C. milk

3 T. sugar

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)

 

Use a rolling pin to flatten out bread slices. Place a sausage link on the end of one slice of flattened bread and roll up tightly; repeat with remaining bread and sausage. In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Dip sausage roll-ups into the egg mixture, making sure to coat all sides. Cook on a preheated griddle or skillet, flipping frequently, until evenly browned on all sides. Serve warm with syrup and powdered sugar if desired.

 

To freeze: wrap each roll-up tightly in plastic wrap or in a plastic baggie, squeezing out as much air as possible.

 

To reheat: Remove plastic wrap and roll the sausage roll-up in a paper towel. Microwave for 30 seconds, turn, microwave for an additional 30 seconds or until heated through.

Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Freezer Burritos

 

Laurel Special

 

4 Flour Tortillas

1 ½ C. Scrambled Eggs

24 Tater Tots, cooked

1 C. Cheese

 

Classic Breakfast Burrito

 

4 Sausage Patties cooked or 6 pieces bacon, cooked and diced

4 flour tortillas burrito size

1 C. cheese

1 C. scrambled eggs already cooked

1 C. black beans drained and rinsed

24 Tater tots cooked

 

Cowboy Breakfast Burrito

 

4 Sausage Patties

4 Wheat tortillas burrito size

1 C. scrambled eggs already cooked

1/4 C. black beans

1/4 C. sweet kernel corn

1/4 C. Pepper Mixture (cooked diced onions and peppers)

1/4 C. Bacon

1/2 C. cheese

24 Tater tots cooked

 

Extra Veggie Breakfast Burrito

 

4 Sausage Patties

4 Spinach tortillas burrito size

1/2 C. scrambled eggs already cooked

1/4 C. black beans

1/4 C. sun-dried tomatoes

1/4 C. Pepper Mixture (cooked diced onions and peppers)

1/4 C. spinach chopped

1/4 C. red bell pepper chopped

1/4 C. cheese

24 Tater Tots cooked

 

 

The Denver

 

6 Eggs

1 C. diced Smoked Ham

½ C. diced Onion

¼ C. diced Green Bells Pepper

4 Tortillas

1 C. Cheddar Cheese

Pinch Cayenne

 

Beat Eggs until Just combined; do not overbeat.  Melt butter in a skillet over high heat. Add ham, onion, and bell pepper. Sprinkle in a nice pinch of salt and a touch of pepper. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until onions start to soften and ham begins to caramelize, about 5 minutes.  Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the eggs. Mix briefly with a spatula while shaking the pan to ensure ingredients are evenly distributed. Continue to scramble until cooked to desired consistency.  Divide egg filling among tortillas.  Sprinkle with cheese and a bit of cayenne.

 

 

Black Bean Mexicali

 

4 Tortillas

1 C. Scrambled Eggs

1 C. crumbled Cojita Cheese

 

Make hash with:

Frozen diced Hash Browns

Red Pepper

Onions

Black Beans

 

Add-ons:

Diced Green Chiles

Cumin

Garlic

Salsa

Cilantro

Corn

Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes

Mushrooms

Chives

Extra cheese, or different kinds of cheese.

Root veggies (roasted is best)

Artichoke hearts

Avocado

 

Serve with:

Salsa

Guacamole

Sour Cream

Salsa Verde

 

Assemble:  lay tortilla on foil.  Top with ingredients.  Fold into a burrito.  Wrap tightly with foil.

 

Freeze: To freeze, once burritos are wrapped and labeled, put in a freezer bag, and label with name and date. Freeze.

 

To Cook: From frozen, preheat oven to 350 degrees, and baked in foil for 25-30 minutes.

Fresh, preheat oven to 350 degrees and bake for 12-15 minutes until heated through.

Easy Pre-Cooked Egg Cups

Easy Pre-Cooked Egg Cups

Easy Pre-Cooked Egg Cups

 

For Turkey Spinach Egg Cups

 

Cooking spray

6 slices roasted turkey breast lunch meat (Applegate)

1 1/2 cups chopped baby spinach

6 eggs

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

 

For Sweet Potato Chive Egg Cups

 

Cooking spray

1 small sweet potato

6 eggs

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

 

For Ham and Cheddar Egg Cups

 

Cooking spray

6 slices ham lunch meat (Applegate)

6 eggs

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

 

For Caprese Egg Cups

 

1 cup sundried tomatoes

Boiling water

6 eggs

6 ounces fresh mozzarella, chopped (or use pearl-size balls)

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

 

For Turkey Spinach Egg Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F. Liberally spray six cups of a regular size muffin tin with cooking spray. Line each of one of the sprayed cups with one slice of the turkey breast. Divide the chopped spinach evenly between each cup, pressing down to pack in. Carefully break an egg into each cup—it’s okay if a little bit spills out of the turkey “bowl.” In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the egg cups. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes (for a soft yolk), or 12-15 minutes (for a hard yolk). Let cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then use a knife to loosen the sides of the cups and lift them out with a spoon.

 

For Sweet Potato Chive Egg Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F. Liberally spray six cups of a regular size muffin tin with cooking spray. Using the large holes in a box grater, grate the entire sweet potato (you should get about 1 1/2 cups of grated sweet potato). Scoop 1/4 cup of grated sweet potato into the bottom of each greased muffin cup. Press down to form a crust. Carefully break an egg into each cup. Evenly divide the chives over top of each cup. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the egg cups. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes (for a soft yolk), or 12-15 minutes (for a hard yolk). Let cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then use a knife to loosen the sides of the cups and lift them out with a spoon.

 

For Ham and Cheddar Egg Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F. Liberally spray six cups of a regular size muffin tin with cooking spray. Line each of one of the sprayed cups with one slice of the ham. Carefully break an egg into each cup. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the egg cups. Sprinkle cheese evenly over cups. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes (for a soft yolk), or 12-15 minutes (for a hard yolk). Let cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then use a knife to loosen the sides of the cups and lift them out with a spoon.

 

For Caprese Egg Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F. Liberally spray six cups of a regular size muffin tin with cooking spray. Set aside. If using dried tomatoes: Place the sundried tomatoes in a small bowl and cover with boiling water to reconstitute. Set aside for 10 minutes, then drain, squeeze out excess water with a clean kitchen towel, and chop roughly. If using oil-packed tomatoes: Drain from oil and chop roughly.

Divide the sundried tomatoes between the six greased muffin cups. Carefully break an egg into each cup. Then top with 1 ounce of fresh mozzarella each. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle evenly over the egg cups. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes (for a soft yolk), or 12-15 minutes (for a hard yolk). Let cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then use a knife to loosen the sides of the cups and lift them out with a spoon. Sprinkle cups immediately with fresh basil.

Breakfast Biscuit Cups

Breakfast Biscuit Cups

Breakfast Biscuit Cups

1/3 pound bulk pork sausage

1 T. all-purpose flour

1/8 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper, divided

3/4 C. plus 1 T. 2% milk, divided

1/2 C. frozen cubed hash brown potatoes, thawed

1 T. butter

2 large eggs

1/8 tsp. garlic salt

1 can (16.3 ounces) large refrigerated flaky biscuits

1/2 C. shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese

 

In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until no longer pink, drain. Stir in the flour, salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper until blended; gradually add 3/4 C. milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat and set aside. In another large skillet over medium heat, cook potatoes in butter until tender. Whisk the eggs, garlic salt and remaining milk and pepper; add to skillet. Cook and stir until almost set. Press each biscuit onto the bottom and up the sides of 8 ungreased muffin cups. Spoon the egg mixture, half the cheese, and sausage into cups, sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake at 375° for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown. Cool 5 minutes before removing from pan. Freeze option: Freeze cooled biscuit C. in a freezer container, separating layers with waxed paper. To use, microwave 1 frozen biscuit C. on high for 50-60 seconds or until heated through.

From-Frozen French Toast Sticks

From-Frozen French Toast Sticks

From-Frozen French Toast Sticks

 

1 C. heavy cream

2 large eggs

1/4 C. granulated sugar

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. salt

1 large bread loaf, preferably challah or brioche

 

Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a bowl, whisk the cream, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Slice the bread into roughly 1-inch slices, then cut each slice into long sticks (the sizing is up to you, it will all cook the same in the end). Put parchment paper on two sheet pans. Dip each stick of bread into the egg mixture and place on the sheet pan, ensuring a small amount of space between each stick. Put the sticks into the oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden and cooked, turning halfway through. If You Are Freezing for Later: Allow the French toast sticks to completely cool (you can even use a cooling rack if you have one). Place the cooled sticks into a resealable freezer bag, making sure as much air is removed as possible, and put them in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, place the sticks in the microwave and cook them 30 seconds at a time until they are hot. If you are reheating a lot of them, and care a lot about the sticks’ crispiness, you can put them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or so.

Make Ahead Bacon Cheddar Grab & Go Breakfast Burritos

Make Ahead Bacon Cheddar Grab & Go Breakfast Burritos

Make Ahead Bacon Cheddar Grab & Go Breakfast Burritos

4 Large Eggs

4 Large Egg Whites

Salt & Pepper

4 8” High Fiber Flour Tortillas

4 T. Salsa

4 T. Shredded Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese

4 tsp. real Bacon Bits

 

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and egg substitute. Spray a medium-size nonstick skillet with cooking spray and place over medium heat. Add eggs to pan and cook, stirring gently, for 2 to 3 minutes or until just set. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Soften 2 of the tortillas by heating them in the microwave on high for 30 seconds. Spread the middle of each tortilla with 1 T. salsa, and top with about % C. eggs. Top eggs with 1 T. of cheese and 1 tsp. bacon bits. Fold bottom of tortilla over filling, then the sides, and roll up burrito-style. Repeat with remaining 2 tortillas and ingredients. Wrap each burrito in plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, re-heat each (you do not need to unwrap them) for 30 to 45 seconds on high. Burritos will keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator and may be frozen

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 195

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 6g

Instant Pot Easy Egg Bites

Instant Pot Easy Egg Bites

Instant Pot Easy Egg Bites

 

1 tsp. salted butter or ghee, for greasing the pan

9 large eggs

½ C. shredded pepper Jack cheese (optional)

¾ tsp. garlic powder

¾ tsp. fine sea salt

¼ tsp. ground black pepper

1½ C. chopped baby spinach

½ C. diced seeded red bell pepper

 

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease a 12-C. muffin pan. Combine the eggs, cheese, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper in a high-powered blender. Blend on high until frothy, about 30 seconds. You can also thoroughly whisk the mixture in a large bowl if you do not have a blender. Evenly distribute the spinach and bell pepper among the muffin C.. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and pepper, filling each C. three-fourths full. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, until the eggs set up and are cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack and cool for 5 minutes. Run a butter knife around the edge of each C. and pop out the egg bites. Serve warm. Note: Store the bites in the freezer in an airtight container or freezer zip-top plastic bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds.

Soy Ginger Chicken

Soy Ginger Chicken

4 bone-in chicken drumsticks, skin removed

4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed

1/3 C. soy sauce

2 T. dark brown sugar

2 medium carrots, thinly sliced crosswise

5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

2/3 C. fresh chopped cilantro plus extra for garnish

2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and cut into thin strips

5 scallions, thinly sliced on the bias, plus extra for garnish

1 T. balsamic vinegar

1 tsp. ground coriander

1/2 tsp. ground pepper

1 T. cornstarch

 

To prepare for freezer: In gallon zip-lock bag, combine chicken, soy sauce, brown sugar, carrots, garlic, cilantro, ginger, scallions, vinegar, coriander, and pepper.  Squeeze out excess air and seal. Place sealed bag into another bag for safety. Label, date, and store in freezer until ready to serve.  When ready to serve: Thaw prepared ingredients overnight in refrigerator. Pour the entire contents of the large bag into a slow cooker and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours.  Just before serving, set slow cooker to high. In a large measuring C. combine cornstarch with 1 T. water. Add 1 C. of cooking liquid and stir to combine. Pour mixture back into slow cooker, cover, and cook 2 minutes longer, or until sauce is thickened. Garnish with cilantro and scallions and serve with white rice.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Perogy Lasagna (Oamc)

Perogy Lasagna (Oamc)

12 cooked lasagna noodles

2 cups cottage cheese

1 egg

1 teaspoon onion salt

1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese, divided

2 1/2 cups mashed potatoes

1/2 cup bacon bit

1 onion, chopped and cooked until clear

4-6 slices bacon, fried crisp and crumbled

 

Mix together cottage cheese, egg and onion salt. In another bowl, mix together 1/2 cup cheese, mashed potatoes, bacon bits and onion. Line bottom of a 9 X 13 inch pan with 4 noodles. Spread first mixture evenly on top. Add 4 additional noodles and cover evenly with potato mixture. Top with remaining 4 noodles, remaining cheese and bacon. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Serve with sour cream. For best flavour, bake ahead and reheat. **For OAMC: I make as directed and then freeze. (For better flavour bake before freezing) Defrost overnight and bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. OR bake from frozen for 1 hour 30 minutes or until heated through.**.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

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Baked Two-Cheese & Bacon Grits

Baked Two-Cheese & Bacon Grits

Baked Two-Cheese & Bacon Grits

6 thick-sliced bacon strips, chopped

3 C. water

3 C. chicken stock

1 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. pepper

2 C. quick-cooking grits

12 ounces Velveeta, cubed (about 2-1/3 cups)

1/2 C. butter, cubed

1/2 C. 2% milk

4 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten

2 C. shredded white cheddar cheese

 

Preheat oven to 350°. In a large saucepan, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove pan from heat. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels. Add water, stock, garlic powder and pepper to bacon drippings; bring to a boil. Slowly stir in grits. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, covered, 5-7 minutes or until thickened, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Add Velveeta and butter; stir until melted. Stir in milk. Slowly stir in eggs until blended. Transfer to a greased 13×9-in. baking dish. Sprinkle with bacon and shredded cheese. Bake, uncovered, 40-45 minutes or until edges are golden brown and cheese is melted. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Freeze option: Cool unbaked casserole; cover and freeze. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove casserole from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake grits as directed, increasing time to 50-60 minutes or until heated through and a thermometer inserted in center reads 165°.

 

Nutrition Facts: 12 servings, 3/4 cup: 466 calories, 34g fat (18g saturated fat), 143mg cholesterol, 840mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 17g protein.

Ham & Cheese Breakfast Strudels

Ham & Cheese Breakfast Strudels

Ham & Cheese Breakfast Strudels

3 T. butter, divided

2 T. all-purpose flour

1 C. whole milk

1/3 C. shredded Swiss cheese

2 T. grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 tsp. salt

5 large eggs, lightly beaten

1/4 pound ground fully cooked ham (about 3/4 cup)

6 sheets phyllo dough (14×9-inch size)

1/2 C. butter, melted

1/4 C. dry breadcrumbs

 

2 T. grated Parmesan cheese

2 T. minced fresh parsley

 

In a small saucepan, melt 2 T. butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in cheeses and salt. In a large nonstick skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Add eggs to pan; cook and stir until almost set. Stir in ham and cheese sauce, heat through. Remove from heat. Preheat oven to 375°. Place 1 sheet of phyllo dough on a work surface. (Keep remaining phyllo covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out.) Brush with melted butter. Sprinkle with 2 tsp. breadcrumbs. Fold in half lengthwise; brush again with butter. Spoon 1/2 C. filling onto phyllo about 2 in. from a short side. Fold side and edges over filling and roll up. Brush with butter. Repeat with remaining phyllo, butter, breadcrumbs and filling. Place on a greased baking sheet; sprinkle each with 1 tsp. cheese and 1 tsp. parsley. Bake 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve immediately. Freeze option: After topping strudels with cheese and parsley, freeze unbaked on a waxed paper-lined baking sheet until firm. Transfer to a freezer container; return to freezer. To use, bake strudels as directed, increasing time to 30-35 minutes or until heated through and golden brown.