Lunch & Light Meals

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

This Easy Southern Smothered Chicken is a cozy dish that makes your taste buds dance! Juicy chicken is cooked to perfection and covered in a creamy, flavorful gravy. You can serve it over rice or mashed potatoes, making it a warm hug in a bowl. I love how quick it is to whip up, perfect for a weeknight meal! 🍽️ Key Ingredients & Substitutions Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs work best for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they … Read more