Lunch & Light Meals

This Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce is perfect for cozy nights! It’s creamy, flavorful, and combines the goodness of pumpkin and tomatoes for a unique twist. As a bonus, it’s super easy to prepare—just mix, bake, and enjoy. I love serving it with some garlic bread on the side. Who doesn’t love a cheesy pasta dish? 🍝 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Pasta: I recommend using rigatoni for its ability to hold the sauce well. If you want to switch things up, penne or fusilli work great too. Gluten-free pasta can also be used if needed. Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin … Read more

This Zucchini Corn Chowder is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy and filled with sweet corn and fresh zucchini, making it perfect for any day. On chilly nights, I can’t resist a steaming bowl of this chowder. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’re in for a cozy treat! 🥣 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Corn: Fresh corn gives a sweet flavor and great texture. If it’s not in season, frozen corn works perfectly too! I usually opt for frozen when I want it quick and easy, and it’s just as tasty. Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are the star … Read more

This Easy Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! With rich pumpkin, cheesy Parmesan, and a touch of cream, it’s a comforting meal perfect for any night. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together—just mix, stir, and enjoy! I often top it with extra cheese because, let’s be honest, who can resist more cheese? 🧀 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Pasta: I love using rigatoni because it holds the sauce well, but any pasta shape works! If you’re gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead. Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is convenient and consistent in flavor. If … Read more

These creamy pumpkin chicken enchiladas are a fun twist on a classic dish! Filled with tender chicken and a smooth pumpkin sauce, they are both comforting and delicious. Honestly, who knew pumpkin could fit so well in enchiladas? They’re perfect for cozy dinners! I love serving them with a sprinkle of cheese and a dollop of sour cream on top—yum! Key Ingredients & Substitutions Chicken: Cooked, shredded chicken is essential for this dish. For convenience, rotisserie chicken works great! If you’re looking for a healthier option, shredded turkey or even beans can replace the meat. Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin … Read more

This Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake is a cozy, comforting dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese with sweet pumpkin. It’s all baked together with pasta, making it super filling! Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love serving it on chilly nights, and you can’t go wrong with a sprinkle of herbs on top. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🥰 Ingredients & Substitutions Pasta: I like using rigatoni because its shape holds onto the creamy sauce well. However, penne, ziti, or shells could work just as nicely if you have those on hand! Pumpkin Puree: You can … Read more

This fun Thanksgiving Pizza brings all your holiday favorites together! Imagine a crispy crust topped with turkey, stuffing, and a drizzle of gravy—yum! It’s like a cozy holiday meal, but on a pizza! I love making this as a twist for leftovers, and honestly, it always makes everyone smile—who can resist pizza? 🍕😊 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience, but homemade dough is always a winner. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free pizza crust, available at many grocery stores. Turkey: Leftover turkey is perfect for this pizza! If you’re short on turkey, … Read more

This yummy dish combines creamy macaroni and cheese with fresh spinach, crispy bacon, and pumpkin. It’s comfort food with a fall twist—perfect for cozy nights! Who knew pumpkin could make mac and cheese even better? I love how the flavors play together! It’s a fun way to sneak in some veggies, and bacon just makes everything better, right? 😄 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Elbow macaroni: This is a classic choice for mac and cheese. You can substitute with small shells, penne, or any pasta you like. Just make sure it can hold the creamy sauce well! Bacon: I love using … Read more

This Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole is a cozy side dish that everyone loves! With tender green beans, creamy soup, and crunchy onions on top, it’s a hit at any meal. When I make this, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, using a slow cooker means I get to enjoy that lovely aroma while it cooks. Who doesn’t love an easy win like that? 😊 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Green Beans: Canned cut green beans are super convenient, but fresh green beans really add a crisp texture. If you prefer frozen ones, they can work too—just … Read more

This juicy slow cooker chicken breast is a lifesaver for busy days! It cooks low and slow, making the chicken tender and full of flavor. Just add your favorite spices and let it do its thing! I love coming home to the smell of dinner already ready. And honestly, who can resist perfectly juicy chicken? Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or just on its own. Yum! Key Ingredients & Substitutions Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work beautifully, too! They tend to be even juicier. Chicken Broth: I use chicken … Read more

This Easy Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken is a wonderful dish that shines with fresh flavors. Juicy chicken is slow-cooked with zesty lemon and fragrant garlic, creating a yummy meal! Honestly, the smell while it cooks is just heavenly! I love serving it with rice or steamed veggies. It’s so simple to prepare. Just pop it in, relax, and let the magic happen! 😊 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, but you could also use thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you have frozen chicken, just add an extra hour … Read more