Lunch & Light Meals

Crispy butternut squash is a tasty treat that’s hard to resist! The sweet and nutty flavor pairs perfectly with a crunchy outside, making each bite delicious. I love making this as a cozy side dish or a snack. Bonus: it’s super simple to prepare—just season, roast, and enjoy! Who knew veggies could be so fun? 🥳 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! Choose a firm squash with smooth skin. If you can’t find butternut, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin for a similar texture and taste. Olive Oil or Butter: I love … Read more

This warm and cozy chowder is packed with tender chicken and sweet potatoes, all simmered together for a comforting taste. The slow cooker makes it easy, too! I love how the flavors blend while I do other things, like binge-watching my favorite show. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak veggies into dinner without anyone noticing! 🥔🍗 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best here. If you prefer a different cut, thighs are juicier. For a quicker meal, shredded rotisserie chicken can be added towards the end of cooking. Sweet Potatoes: These add a natural sweetness … Read more

This creamy pumpkin sauce is a warm hug for your taste buds! Made with pure pumpkin, spices, and a touch of cream, it’s rich and flavorful. It’s perfect for pasta or even drizzling on roasted veggies. I love how quick it comes together—just mix, heat, and enjoy this fall favorite anytime! 🎃 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Pumpkin Puree: This is the star of the show! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade puree from roasted pumpkin works great too. Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk: Heavy cream gives a rich texture. If you’re looking for … Read more

This Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce is creamy and full of flavor, making it a perfect addition to pasta or roasted vegetables. It’s a fun twist on the classic Alfredo, and oh-so-easy to whip up! When I make this sauce, I love how the pumpkin adds a rich taste and lovely color. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! Plus, who doesn’t love a little fall magic in their dinner? 🍂 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Fettuccine Pasta: Traditional choice for Alfredo, but you can easily swap it for spaghetti, penne, or gluten-free pasta if needed. Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is super … Read more

This tasty white chicken chili is packed with protein and keeps carbs low, making it a great choice for a healthy meal. With tender chicken, creamy beans, and a kick of spices, it’s super satisfying! I love how warm and cozy this chili feels on a chilly day. Plus, it’s quick to make! I often top mine with a sprinkle of cheese to make it even more delicious. Who can say no to cheese? 🧀 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this chili as they cook quickly and stay tender. You can also use … Read more

These Beef and Cheddar Sliders are tiny burgers packed with flavor! Each slider gets a juicy beef patty topped with melted cheddar cheese, all on soft buns that are perfect for munching. What’s great is how easy they are to whip up! I love serving them at parties—everyone goes wild for these tasty little bites. Plus, they taste just as good with or without fancy toppings. Yum! Key Ingredients & Substitutions Beef Chuck Roast: This cut of meat is perfect because it’s fatty enough to stay tender while cooking. If you want a leaner option, consider using a top sirloin … Read more

This Chicken Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy goodness loaded with tender chicken and pasta. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to love! Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you just want something warm and filling. Trust me, I can’t resist sneaking a spoonful before dinner! 😄 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but cavatappi adds a fun twist. If you want, try gluten-free pasta for a lighter option! Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience. Leftover chicken works great too! For a vegetarian version, replace it with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Cheese: Sharp … Read more

This Chicken Stew is warm, hearty, and perfect for a cozy meal! Tender chicken and colorful veggies simmer together in a flavorful broth, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug. The fluffy dumplings on top are the best part! They soak up the stew and make each bite extra delicious. I like to serve it with a crusty bread—perfect for dipping into that yummy broth! Key Ingredients & Substitutions Chicken: I usually opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they’re juicy and packed with flavor. However, you can use chicken breasts or even leftover rotisserie chicken for an … Read more

These Herby Chicken & Ricotta Meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor! Made with tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and a mix of fresh herbs, they are simply delicious. Making these meatballs is such a joy! I love serving them with pasta or on a sub. Plus, they freeze well, which means I can enjoy quick meals later—win-win! 🍝 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Ground Chicken: This recipe shines with ground chicken, which keeps the meatballs light. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey can be a great substitute. However, beef or pork can also work but will change the … Read more

This Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is a cozy dish with soft gnocchi mixed with creamy pumpkin and cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for chilly nights when you need some comfort food! I love how easy it is to whip up this bake and how it fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting smell. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy a slice of yumminess! 🍂 Key Ingredients & Substitutions Gnocchi: You can use either store-bought or homemade gnocchi. Fresh or frozen varieties work. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free gnocchi options available in stores. Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is convenient … Read more