Category: Uncategorized

  • Pork Fried Rice

    This one pan Pork Fried Rice is one of my favorite dishes of all time. It’s quick, easy, super flavorful, and always satisfies a crowd. We make ours with pork tenderloin, scrambled egg, and whatever leftover rice and veggies you have in your freezer. It’s the perfect meal to make the most out of leftovers.

    I love a simple rice dish. We grew up eating a lot of rice as kids so I’m often making a batch of rice for whatever reason. I love making extra because day old rice is the perfect thing to make fried rice out of! If you want more rice inspired dishes, you’ve got to try this Mexican Rice, this delicious Dirty Rice, and this yummy Red Beans and Rice.

    Pork Fried Rice Recipe

    The reason I love pork fried rice so much is because you get to clean out your fridge! Take a look, do you have some vegetables that are going bad? Do you have rice that is getting dry and bland? Pop all of those ingredients into a wok with some seasonings and you’ve got a refreshed meal that is waste-free and SO yummy. My kids love it when I make fried rice because it’s a meal all in one that is popping with fresh flavors.

    You will need precooked rice for this recipe. I like to plan to make fried rice after I’ve made a rice-heavy meal like broccoli and rice chicken casserole. I will make extra rice and store it in the fridge for tomorrow. You can also make the rice fresh. I love cooking white rice in my instant pot for this quick and easy instant pot rice. If you love this recipe as much as I know you will, you’ll have to try this Better Than Takeout Ham Fried Rice too!

    Ingredients

    Check out these simple ingredients! I love a meal with just a few straightforward ingredients like the ones in this pork fried rice recipe. Other things you could absolutely add to this recipe is fresh garlic cloves, fresh ginger grated or sliced, bell peppers, oyster sauce, and mushrooms. More about that below in the tip box. You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    Sesame Oil: I love sesame oil, it’s nutty and super flavorful and perfect for flavoring rice.

    Pork Tenderloin: This is the key to this recipe. You cook the pork in sesame oil to make it packed with flavor.

    Onion Powder: You could add other powders too, like garlic powder!

    Kosher Salt: High quality salt makes a difference! You are adding soy sauce so make sure to not overdo the salt. This is to season the pork.

    Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper helps to season the meat and adds a little heat.

    Cooked Rice: Use your leftover rice for this recipe. You need 3 cups.

    White Onion: They just add so much flavor, you can’t leave them out!

    Peas and Carrots: Frozen veggies are perfect, so really pull whatever you have out of the freezer.

    Soy Sauce: For so much flavor!

    Eggs: you will scramble them with the veggies.

    Green Onion: This is optional, but they add tons of flavor.

    How to Make Pork Fried Rice

    Pork fried rice is a really simple recipe to master. It might seem like more work because of all the ingredients, but it’s actually a few quick steps! It’s perfect for using up leftovers and clearing out the freezer. You cook everything in the same skillet, just in different stages. So grab your favorite skillet or wok and lets get cooking.

    Cook Pork: Preheat a large skillet or wok to medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, pork, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until no longer pink. Remove from the wok and set aside.

    Cook Veggies: Returning to the same wok, add the remaining 2 tablespoons sesame oil, onion, peas, and carrots. Cook until tender.

    Cook Eggs: Slide the onion, peas, and carrots to the side, and pour the beaten eggs onto the other side of the skillet. Then using a spatula, scramble the eggs. Once cooked, mix the eggs with the vegetable mix.

    Add Rice: Add the cooked rice to the veggie and egg mixture. Then pour the soy sauce on top. Stir and fry the rice and veggie mixture until warmed through and combined.

    Put It All Together: Add the cooked pork back to the rice and veggie mixture and then stir to combine.

    Season and Enjoy: Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Then garnish with chopped green onion if desired.

    Tips for Making Pork Fried Rice

    Pork fried rice is such a fun recipe to play with! You can go literally any direction you want with this one. Here are a few suggestions for making this recipe your own.

    More Proteins: You can add more meat to this recipe, like bacon and sausage, or you can change out the protein entirely for something like beef. One of my favorite fried rice recipes is shrimp fried rice. There are so many ways to make this recipe your own, so feel free to switch things up. You can also use precooked leftover meat, just chop it up into bite-size pieces and add it at the end. You won’t have to cook it in the wok first.

    Add More Veggies: A package of stir fry frozen veggies has definitely made an appearance in my fried rice before. Sometimes you just have to use what you’ve got! That’s the whole point of fried rice really. You’ve got to use up those leftovers and not waste anything! You can add things like broccoli, watercress, green beans, mushrooms, cauliflower, etc.

    Add Spice: I love a little spice in fried rice every once in a while. You can add red pepper flakes to kick the heat up a notch. You can also add more black pepper if you think it could use a little more heat. Ginger is another great way to get a really warm flavor into the dish that is borderline spicy.

    Storing Leftovers

    Pork fried rice makes the ultimate leftovers. Warming the rice up again adds extra flavor and life to the dish, and here is how to store your leftovers.

    In the Refrigerator: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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    Pork Fried Rice

    This one pan Pork Fried Rice is one of my favorite dishes of all time. It’s quick, easy, super flavorful, and always satisfies a crowd. We make ours with pork tenderloin, scrambled egg, and whatever leftover rice and veggies you have in your freezer. It’s the perfect meal to make the most out of leftovers.
    Course Dinner, Side Dish
    Cuisine Asian American
    Keyword pork fried rice
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 25 minutes
    Servings 8
    Calories 382kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    3 tablespoons sesame oil divided3/4 pound pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces1/2 teaspoon onion powder1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper3 cups rice, cooked1/2 white onion, chopped1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed2-3 tablespoons soy sauce more or less to taste2 eggs, lightly beaten2 tablespoons green onions , chopped, optional

    Instructions

    Preheat a large skillet or wok to medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, pork, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until no longer pink. Remove from the wok and set aside.
    Returning to the same wok, add the remaining 2 tablespoons sesame oil, onion, peas, and carrots. Cook until tender.
    Slide the onion, peas, and carrots to the side, and pour the beaten eggs onto the other side of the skillet. Using a spatula, scramble the eggs. Once cooked, mix the eggs with the vegetable mix.
    Add the cooked rice to the veggie and egg mixture. Pour the soy sauce on top. Stir and fry the rice and veggie mixture until warmed through and combined.
    Add the cooked pork back to the rice and veggie mixture and stir to combine.
    Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped green onion if desired.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 382kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 69mg | Sodium: 380mg | Potassium: 322mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1738IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 2mg
  • Loaded Fries

    For your next cheat day, look no further than these loaded fries with all the fixin’s: melty colby jack cheese, crispy bacon, tangy green onions, and a little kick of jalapenos! They’re so good, you might just forget you’re actually eating a vegetable (potatoes totally count, right?).

    Really, there’s no wrong way to make fries. I love them smothered in melted cheese and bacon, but they’re also tasty covered with carne asada! You’ll have to try both!

    Loaded Cheese Fries Recipe

    Loaded fries are an absolute game-changer when it comes to satisfying your craving for something salty, crispy, and delicious. Imagine a heaping plate of freshly fried, crispy fries, topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, and spicy jalapenos. The combination of flavors and textures is so irresistible. These loaded fries are the ultimate appetizer for any occasion, be it a party or a game day. They’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, and it’s impossible to resist reaching for just one more fry.

    If you want to take your loaded fries game to the next level, then making them from scratch is the way to go. Not only can you ensure that the fries are perfectly cooked and crispy, but you can also customize the toppings to suit your taste buds. Maybe you want to add some tangy salsa, creamy guacamole, or some extra heat with a drizzle of hot sauce or sriracha mayo. The possibilities are endless!

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    Here’s what I used to make loaded fries! The great thing about making these at home is that you can customize all of the toppings to your liking. See my tips section below for more topping ideas!

    French Fries: Crispy and golden French fries are what make loaded cheese fries so irresistible. Whether you use store-bought frozen fries or whip up your own batch at home, these crispy taters are the perfect vehicle for all of the other toppings.

    Colby Jack Cheese: Shredded Colby Jack cheese is the perfect topping for loaded cheese fries. It melts beautifully and adds creamy, cheesy goodness to every bite.

    Green Onions: Sliced green onions add a pop of color and a subtle onion flavor to the mix. Plus, they make the dish look fancy, even though it’s just a pile of fries.

    Bacon: Cooked until crispy and crumbled into little bits, bacon takes these loaded fries to the next level. It’s salty, smoky, and adds a satisfying crunch to every bite. Use precooked bacon for easy prep!

    Jalapeños: Sliced jalapenos add a spicy kick to the dish. They’re not for the faint of heart, but for those who love a little heat, they’re the perfect addition.

    Famous Fry Sauce: Optional for dipping, famous fry sauce is a tangy and creamy sauce that’s the perfect complement to loaded fries. It makes everything taste better. Trust me, you’ll want to dunk every fry in it.

    How to Make the Best Loaded Fries

    Who says you need to be a master chef to impress your friends with delicious food? Loaded fries are the ultimate game day or party food, and the best part is, they’re beyond easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a sprinkle of creativity, you’ll have a plate of crispy fries topped with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and spicy jalapenos that will have everyone drooling. Trust me, once you serve up a plate of these bad boys, you’ll be the MVP of the gathering.

    Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or to the temperature noted on the back of the fry package.

    Bake Fries: Add the fries to a rimmed baking sheet and then cook according to package instructions or until extra crisp, stirring after 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also cook the fries in the air fryer and transfer the cooked fries to a baking sheet after they are cooked and crisp.

    Broil: Once the fries are crisp, remove them from the oven. Then change the temperature on the oven to the broil option to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Add Bacon and Cheese: Top the fries with shredded cheese and cooked crumbled bacon. Then place the fries back into the oven for 1-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

    Add Toppings and Serve: Top with green onions, sliced jalapenos, and serve with my famous fry sauce. Enjoy!

    Tasty Variations

    Don’t settle for boring fries when you can easily take them to the next level with a little customization! Whether you’re feeling spicy or craving something cheesy, loaded fries are the perfect canvas for all of your favorite toppings, so get creative and make them your own.

    French Fries: Any kind of fries will work! Waffle fries, sweet potato fries, steak fries…the choice is yours!

    Cheese: I love freshly shredded cheese, but my homemade cheese sauce would also be amazing. Switch up the cheese and use any variation you would like.

    Toppings: There are endless possibilities for toppings. Chopped tomatoes, avocados, guacamole, salsa, sour cream, olives, beans, and onions are all great options!

    Dips or Sauces: I have so many delicious sauces and dips that would be delicious with these fries. Try homemade ranch, blue cheese dip, copycat Cane’s sauce or sriracha mayo!

    Add Protein or Meat: Try adding beef, chicken, chili, or beans.

    How Long Do Loaded Fries Last?

    Once you load your fries up with all the cheesy, bacon-y goodness, they are best enjoyed immediately for maximum deliciousness. While you can store leftovers in the fridge for a few days, the fries will lose their crispiness and the toppings won’t be as fresh. So, don’t wait too long to devour this tasty snack and savor every crispy bite while they last!

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    Loaded Fries

    For your next cheat day, look no further than these loaded fries with all the fixin’s: melty colby jack cheese, crispy bacon, tangy green onions, and a little kick of jalapenos! They’re so good, you might just forget you’re actually eating a vegetable (potatoes totally count, right?).
    Course Appetizer, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Keyword loaded cheese fries, loaded fries, loaded fries recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    20 minutes
    Total Time 30 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 614kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    16 ounces french fries, frozen or homemade fries2 cups Colby jack cheese, shreddedgreen onion, slicedbacon, cooked and crumbledjalepeno, sliced1/4 cup famous fry sauce, optional for dipping

    Instructions

    Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or to the temperature noted on the back of the package.
    Add the fries to a rimmed baking sheet and cook according to package instructions or until extra crisp, stirring after 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can cook the fries in the air fryer and transfer the cooked fries to a baking sheet after they are cooked and crisp.
    Once the fries are crisp, remove them from the oven. Change the temperature on the oven to the broil option to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
    Top the fries with shredded cheese and cooked crumbled bacon. Place the fries back into the oven for 1-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
    Top with green onions, and sliced jalapenos, and serve with my famous fry sauce. Enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cup | Calories: 614kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 1105mg | Potassium: 588mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 689IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 465mg | Iron: 2mg
  • Dunkaroo Dip

    If you are looking for a quick and easy treat for a special occasion, this Dunkaroo Dip is your new go-to! It’s a sweet dip perfect for cookies, apples, and graham crackers. It’s colorful and absolutely addicting!

    I am a sucker for a good dip. Whether they are sweet or savory, I just love snacking on a yummy dip. I make them for almost every party because they are a great way to get people comfortable and a little food in their bellies. If you are looking for savory dips for your next party, I have recipes for you. You’ve got to try this Whipped Feta Dip, this amazing Creamy Ranch Poolside Dip, and this warm Spinach Dip.

    Homemade Dunkaroo Dip

    I think that no party is complete without a dip! Whether it’s a gameday watch party and you’re serving beer cheese dip, or it’s a baby shower and you set out a cream cheese fruit dip, parties need dips! That’s why I love this dunkaroo dip so much. It’s basically a cake without all the hassle, and all the cake! My favorite part of the cake is the frosting, so this dip really delivers all of my favorite things. It’s absolutely perfect for birthdays!

    You will need funfetti cake mix, that you bake in the oven before adding it to the recipe to keep it safe to eat. Add some whipped cream, vanilla pudding and sprinkles and you have an addictingly delicious dip that will be gone in minutes! You could also make this a chocolate dip by adding chocolate pudding and chocolate chips. It’s one of the best dessert dips I’ve ever had, I think you are going to love it too!

    Ingredients

    Here are the ingredients for your dunkaroo dip. You will also need things to dip into your mixture, so when you are at the store keep that in mind. Some of my favorite dippers are things like teddy grahams, pretzels, fresh fruit, and butter cookies. You can really use whatever you like best! You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    Funfetti Cake Mix: You will bake the cake mix for 5 minutes to make it safe to eat! A lot of people worry about eating this dip because they think it’s raw flour, but it has been cooked to make it safe to eat.

    Whipped Topping: You can buy a tub of cool whip or you can make your own homemade whipped cream.

    Vanilla Pudding or Yogurt: I like to use yogurt to add a little tangy flavor, but it’s amazing with prepared vanilla pudding too!

    Rainbow Sprinkles: You will fold sprinkles in at the end to add in extra fun!

    Dunkaroo Dip Recipe

    The most important step in this dunkaroo dip recipe is baking the box cake mix. This gets rid of all of the potentially harmful bacteria. You are adding dry cake mix in this dip, so since you won’t be baking it like a cake you need to pop it in the oven to make it safe. This funfetti cake batter dip is so easy from there. You just add the rest of the ingredients and mix! It’s a quick and easy cake batter dip recipe that everyone will love.

    Bake Cake Mix: Heat treat the cake mix to make it safe to eat raw by spreading it out evenly onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning. Then let it cool completely.

    Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl add the cooled cake mix, whipped topping, and vanilla pudding. Then whip with a hand mixer until fluffy and no lumps of cake mix remain.

    Add Sprinkles: Fold in the rainbow sprinkles.

    Enjoy: Serve with a variety of cookies, such as graham crackers, animal crackers, vanilla wafers.

    Tips for Making Dunkaroo Dip

    This popular snack from the 90s is making a strong comeback! There is every reason to make this dunkaroo dip for your next birthday party. I know it was one of my favorite childhood snacks. Here are some tips to make this dip even more fun.

    Make It Gluten Free: If you are serving this dip to guests with a gluten sensitivity, you can make it gluten free by buying a gluten free cake mix. They have a lot of options these days, and you should be able to find a funfetti gluten free cake mix. If not, there are definitely yellow cake mixes that are gluten free that will taste just as great. Make sure to offer gluten free dippers like fresh fruit!

    Bake Your Own Dunking Cookies: If you are into making things yourself, baking your own dunking cookies can take this funfetti dip to the next level. I love making butter cookies and classic sugar cookies. You could really dip any kind of cookie in this dip because it really tastes like an amazing frosting. It goes great with so many flavors!

    Type of Sprinkles: Avoid using nonpareil sprinkles as they have a tendency to bleed color resulting in an unappetizing gray color. Aside from that, you can get creative with the types of sprinkles you add.

    Storing Leftovers

    I love this simple dunkaroo dip because it’s great for making ahead and it stores really well. So here are my tips for keeping your dip fresh and flavorful.

    In the Refrigerator: This dip can be made in advance and stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It is best to give the dip a good stir before serving if it has been chilled.

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    Dunkaroo Dip

    If you are looking for a quick and easy treat for a special occasion, this Dunkaroo Dip is your new go-to! It’s a sweet dip perfect for cookies, apples, and graham crackers. It’s colorful and absolutely addicting!
    Course Appetizer, Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Keyword cake mix dip, Dessert Dip, dunkaroo dip, funfetti dip, whipped cream dip
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 5 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 3 Cups
    Calories 780kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    1 box funfetti cake mix1 8 ounce container whipped topping thawed¾ cup vanilla pudding or yogurt¼ cup rainbow sprinkles

    Instructions

    Heat treat the cake mix to make it safe to eat raw by spreading it out evenly onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning. Let it cool completely.
    In a large bowl add the cooled cake mix, whipped topping, and vanilla pudding. Whip with a hand mixer until fluffy and no lumps of cake mix remain.
    Fold in the rainbow sprinkles.
    Serve with a variety of cookies, such as graham crackers, animal crackers, vanilla wafers.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 780kcal | Carbohydrates: 154g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 1024mg | Potassium: 93mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 104g | Vitamin A: 149IU | Calcium: 150mg | Iron: 2mg
  • Brioche French Toast

    Move over regular French toast, there’s a new brunch boss in town and it’s made with brioche bread! With its buttery richness and pillowy texture, it’s like biting into a cloud of happiness. Trust me, once you’ve had brioche French toast, there’s no going back to the basic stuff. It’s breakfast, elevated!

    There’s nothing better than starting your day off with a hearty breakfast. This brioche French toast is a must-make, but you’ll have to pair it with some delicious oven-baked bacon, scrambled eggs, and homemade buttermilk syrup!

    Brioche French Toast Recipe

    French toast made with homemade brioche bread is a breakfast that’s worth waking up for! It’s like biting into a fluffy cloud of sweetness that just melts in your mouth. The texture is perfect – it’s soft on the inside, with a slightly crispy crust on the outside, making each bite a joy to eat.

    If you’re looking to impress your friends or family with your breakfast skills, then brioche French toast is the way to go! It’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s versatile – you can add your favorite toppings, whether it’s fresh berries, whipped cream, Nutella, or caramel sauce! With a breakfast that’s so delicious, you’ll be looking for excuses to make it all week long. So go ahead, grab a fork, and dig in to soft, fluffy goodness!

    Ingredients Needed

    Who says you need a complicated recipe for a delicious breakfast? With just a few simple ingredients like brioche bread, eggs, and cinnamon, you can make the ultimate French toast! And the best part? You can customize it with all of your favorite toppings, from fresh berries to buttermilk syrup and everything in between!

    Brioche Bread, Thickly Sliced: Brioche bread is the star of the show when it comes to making French toast. Its buttery and fluffy texture gives a perfect base for the egg mixture. You can use store-bought brioche, but I recommend making your own for the best flavor! Find my full recipe here.

    Large Eggs: Eggs are a must-have when making French toast. They are the binding agent that holds everything together. Be sure to use large eggs for the perfect custard texture.

    Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the French toast. It’s a classic spice that goes perfectly with the sweetness of the bread. If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, you can also substitute it with nutmeg or cardamom.

    Heavy Whipping Cream: Heavy whipping cream adds richness and creaminess to the custard mixture. If you don’t have heavy whipping cream on hand, you can also use whole milk or half-and-half.

    Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a caramel-like sweetness to the French toast. It’s the perfect complement to the buttery brioche bread.

    Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds a subtle sweetness to the French toast. It’s a must-have ingredient that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Try making your own blend using my recipe here!

    Butter: Butter is the perfect fat to use when cooking French toast. It adds a rich, buttery flavor to the dish and helps prevent sticking.

    How to Make the Best Brioche French Toast

    Looking for a breakfast that’s easy to make and guaranteed to make your morning better? Brioche French toast is the answer! With just a few simple ingredients and a hot skillet, you can whip up a breakfast that’s sweet, buttery, and super delicious. So start your day off right and treat yourself to a slice (or two) of this delicious dish! Let’s get started.

    Slice Bread: Slice your brioche loaf into about 1 ½ inch slices, they should be fairly thick.

    Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, add your eggs, cinnamon, whipping cream, and sugar. Whisk to combine well.

    Coat: Take each piece of brioche and fully submerge it in your egg mixture, then place each soaked piece flat in a pan, pour any remaining liquid evenly over the bread and allow the bread to sit and soak the liquid up a bit.

    Heat Skillet: Heat up a large skillet on your stove over medium high heat and then melt some butter into the pan, about 2 tablespoons.

    Cook: Place a few slices of the soaked bread into the heated and buttered skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.

    Serve: Once the french toast is all cooked, serve fresh with your favorite toppings!

    Ways to Perfect Your Brioche French Toast

    Follow these simple tips and your brioche French toast will be nothing short of perfection! Thick slices of bread, a flavorful custard mixture, and a perfectly golden brown exterior are just a few steps away!

    Use Thick Slices: Cut your brioche bread into thick slices to ensure that it absorbs the custard mixture without falling apart.

    Let Flavors Meld: Let your custard mixture rest for a few minutes before dipping the bread to allow the ingredients to meld together for a more flavorful French toast.

    Cook Over Medium Heat: Use a non-stick skillet and heat it up on medium heat. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt before adding the soaked bread. One of the most common mistakes I see is that people cook their French toast on too hot of a pan, and the outsides end up burning.

    Cook in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the skillet – cook your brioche French toast in batches for the best results.

    Keep Warm: Keep the cooked French toast warm in a 200°F oven while you cook the rest of the batches.

    Add Your Favorite Toppings: Don’t forget the toppings! Maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh berries, and powdered sugar are all delicious options to customize your brioche French toast with.

    Storing Leftovers / Making Ahead

    I suggest making this dish to eat fresh, but you can also store the leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for about 5 days.

    Brioche French toast is also great for making ahead! You can prepare the french toast the night before, leaving the bread and eggs to soak in the fridge covered and cook it fresh in the morning. Not only does it make mornings less chaotic, but makes the French toast more flavorful!

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    Brioche French Toast

    Move over regular French toast, there’s a new brunch boss in town and it’s made with brioche bread! With its buttery richness and pillowy texture, it’s like biting into a cloud of happiness. Trust me, once you’ve had brioche French toast, there’s no going back to the basic stuff. It’s breakfast, elevated!
    Course Breakfast
    Cuisine American
    Keyword brioche french toast, brioche french toast recipe
    Prep Time 45 minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 1 hour
    Servings 6 people
    Calories 251kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    1 loaf brioche bread thickly sliced5 large eggs2 teaspoons cinnamon¼ cup heavy whipping cream1 tablespoon brown sugar1 teaspoon vanillaButter for cooking

    Instructions

    Slice your brioche loaf into about 1 ½ inch slices, they should be fairly thick.
    In a large bowl, add your eggs, cinnamon, whipping cream, and sugar. Whisk to combine well.
    Take each piece of brioche and fully submerge it in your egg mixture, then place each soaked piece flat in a pan, pour any remaining liquid evenly over the bread and allow the bread to sit and soak the liquid up a bit.
    Heat up a large skillet on our stove over medium high heat and melt some butter into the pan, about 2 tablespoons.
    Place a few slices of the soaked bread into the heated and buttered skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
    Once the french toast is all cooked, serve fresh with your favorite toppings!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 251kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 148mg | Sodium: 320mg | Potassium: 146mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 347IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 105mg | Iron: 3mg
  • Flatbread Pizza

    Flatbread pizza is a simple and delicious recipe that is easier to make than regular pizza. With a thin and chewy flatbread crust that is topped with your favorite pizza toppings, it’s even better than takeout and always a hit!

    I am a HUGE pizza fan. I definitely don’t feel guilty about it either. Some things in life were meant to be enjoyed, and pizza is at the top of that list. If you love pizza too, you’ve got to try this Bubble Pizza, this amazing and simple White Pizza, and this yummy Taco Pizza.

    Flatbread Pizza Recipe

    I love this flatbread pizza recipe for so many reasons! For starters, it’s made on flatbread instead of a traditional pizza dough. That makes it easier to make without compromising on flavor. Flatbread is a delicious thin bread kind of like naan or pita bread, and it can be flavored or plain. You can pick it up from the store in the bread section, or you can make your own at home with the recipe I’ve linked below. Either way you make it, flatbread pizza might be your new favorite.

    The amazing thing about pizza when you make it at home is that you can literally make it exactly the way you want it! When I’m making one just for me, I love a drizzle of olive oil and some mushrooms and parmesan cheese. Sometimes I’ll add some spinach for a pop of color. You can add things like pesto, sausage, garlic, and really any pizza sauce you like. I share more of my favorite pizza sauce recipes below in the recipe box.

    Ingredients

    The key to a good flatbread pizza is, of course, the flatbread! I love making my own simple flatbread at home because it tastes better than store bought and you can pop them in the freezer. Then they are ready to pull out anytime you need them. You can also buy a lot of great options from the store. The measurements are listed below in the recipe card.

    Flatbread: Flatbread is a simple, very flat dough. It’s similar to pita bread and makes the perfect simple crust for pizza. I love making my own, but there are a lot of great options at the grocery store too.

    Marinara Sauce: Homemade pizza sauce is just what this pizza needs! The sauce is so easy to make, but if you are in a rush you can definitely pick up your favorite brand at the store.

    Mozzarella Cheese: This is the key to a perfectly melty pizza. You can add other cheeses as well, but I think every pizza needs mozzarella.

    Pepperoni: You can buy whatever type of meat you like, but my family definitely prefers pepperoni.

    Basil Leaves: Fresh basil leaves add a pop of flavor and color. It really makes a difference!

    How To Make Flatbread Pizza

    Because you are using flatbread that is already baked, you just have to cook this flatbread pizza in the oven until the cheese is melted. It’s a no fuss recipe that anyone can perfect. You won’t have to worry about whether it’s done or not, and it also makes the perfect freezer pizza. More about that below!

    Prep: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Line Pans: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the flatbreads on the prepared pan.

    Add Sauce: Spread ¼ cup marinara sauce over each flatbread.

    Add Toppings: Top each flatbread with ½ cup mozzarella cheese, and 10 slices of pepperoni.

    Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes until the flatbread is golden and crisp around the edges. If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese.

    Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes if desired.

    Enjoy: Slice and enjoy!

    Tips for Making Flatbread Pizza

    Homemade flatbread pizza has a simple crust, so the toppings are really what make this pizza shine. You can follow my exact recipe, or use these tips below to make an entirely new pizza that your whole family will love.

    Add Veggies: Adding things like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, spinach, bell peppers, and red onion can really take your pizza to the next level! I really like a simple Margherita flatbread pizza, but adding more toppings can always be fun. Other ideas are black olives, sliced tomatoes, and fresh arugula. The key to a great pizza is flavor combinations that you know you will love, so keep that in mind when adding your toppings.

    Use A Different Sauce: Flatbread toppings can be anything you want! I like a simple tomato sauce, but my kids especially love white pizza sauce. You can also make Alfredo sauce and add chicken and bacon on top for a really simple and creamy pizza. If you are making a white pizza, add some balsamic vinegar and fresh herbs to really make those flavors stand out!

    Add Meat: My family is all about pepperoni pizza, but there is no reason to just stick to that. I love adding chicken, sausage, bacon, and prosciutto on my pizza. Maybe not all at the same time! But pretty close. The more the merrier I say!

    Storing Leftovers

    Flatbread pizza makes great leftovers because you can reheat it again and again, and it will still taste amazing. You can pop your pizza in the freezer for an easy freezer meal when you are in a rush. Here are my tips for storing leftovers and meal prep.

    In the Refrigerator: You can store your leftover pizza in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container so that the bread doesn’t get dry and stale.

    In the Freezer: You can put your assembled pizza in the freezer. Follow this recipe for the assembly of the pizza, and then before you bake it, wrap it in plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer. You can store it for up to 3 months, and pop it in the oven whenever you need it. When you do bake it, put it on a parchment lined pan and bake at 400 degrees until the cheese has melted. That should be for about 10-15 minutes depending on how frozen it is and your oven. Just keep your eye on it and wait until that cheese starts to move around.

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    Flatbread Pizza

    Flatbread pizza is a simple and delicious recipe that is easier to make than regular pizza. With a thin and chewy flatbread crust that is topped with your favorite pizza toppings, it’s even better than takeout and always a hit!
    Course Dinner, lunch
    Cuisine American, Italian American
    Keyword flatbread pizza
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 4 people
    Calories 284kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    1 recipe flatbread1 cup marinara sauce, store-bought or homemade 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded40 slices pepperoni fresh basil leaves, for garnish

    Instructions

    Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the flatbreads on the prepared pan.
    Spread ¼ cup marinara sauce over each flatbread.
    Top each flatbread with ½ cup mozzarella cheese, and 10 slices of pepperoni.
    Bake for 8-10 minutes until the flatbread is golden and crisp around the edges. If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese.
    Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes if desired.
    Slice and enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1flatbread | Calories: 284kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 64mg | Sodium: 959mg | Potassium: 280mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 644IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 295mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Easy Moo Goo Gai Pan

    Moo Goo Gai Pan is a classic Chinese dish! Tender chicken pieces and mushrooms with crisp vegetables such as carrots, water chestnuts, and snow peas all stir-fried together with a savory sauce. Way better than take out and it only 20 minutes!

    I am all about skipping the take out and making Chinese food at home. If you love Chinese food as much as I do try this Skinny Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken, Awesome Kung Pao Shrimp or Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli.

    Moo Goo Gai Pan Recipe

    Seriously! Skip takeout and make this at home. It’s one of my all-time favorite Chinese dishes. Don’t get me wrong, I love me some takeout, but I also love to make moo goo gai pan at home and enjoy it in the comfort of my sweatpants. It is so much better than I thought it could ever be! The combo of tender chicken pieces and crisp veggies all in a savory sauce is amazing. You are going to love how easy and delicious this moo goo gai pan recipe is! It truly is better than takeout.

    There is little to no seasoning on moo goo gai pan. Just the perfect sweet and savory sauce that enhances all the flavors in this dish! You will have dinner on the table in less than 20 minutes. If you are craving Chinese food, skip those expensive food delivery apps and make this Moo Goo Gai Pan recipe instead! You won’t regret it and your family will love every bite!

    Where Does Moo Goo Gai Pan Come From?

    Moo Goo Gai Pan is best known for being a popular Chinese takeout dish. It’s part of Cantonese cuisine and usually includes chicken and mushrooms that are served with other vegetables depending on your preference and where it is prepared. It’s a quick and easy Chinese dish that is now modernized into an American-Chinese stir fry.

    Ingredients for Moo Goo Gai Pan

    This is everything you need to make a delicious moo goo gai pan stir fry! All the flavors from the ingredients blend so well together to make this a fresh and hearty meal. Check out the recipe card for exact measurements!

    Olive Oil: Used to cook the chicken in.

    Chicken Thighs: I cut my chicken thighs into 1 inch chunks but if you like the classic Chinese thin sliced cuts of meat that will work too. Just be sure not to overcook your sliced chicken since it is thinner. If you don’t want to use thigh meat, you can also use boneless skinless chicken breasts.

    Salt and Pepper: Help to enhance all of the tasty flavors of moo goo gai pan. Season to taste!

    Vegetables: The great thing about stir fries is that you can throw in leftover veggies that you have in the fridge. I used carrots, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and snow peas! Bok choy, bamboo shoots, celery, or cabbage are great options as well.

    Chopped Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: For garnish! These add a little extra flavor and also give the moo goo gai pan great presentation.

    For the Sauce:

    Chicken Broth: This is the liquid gold that makes the moo goo gai pan sauce come to life! It adds depth of flavor and richness to the dish.

    Soy Sauce: This umami bomb ties everything together in the sauce. It gives the dish that classic savory taste we all know and love.

    Brown Sugar: Sweet, sweet brown sugar! This guy brings balance to the moo goo gai pan sauce by adding a touch of sweetness that complements the salty and savory flavors.

    Garlic: This tiny but mighty ingredient packs a flavorful punch in the sauce. It adds a subtle yet powerful garlicky aroma and taste that will make your mouth water.

    Hoisin Sauce: This sweet and savory sauce is a staple in Chinese cuisine, and it adds a unique flavor to the moo goo gai pan sauce.

    Sesame Oil: Just a small amount of sesame oil goes a long way in adding nuttiness and depth to the sauce.

    Cornstarch: Cornstarch is the key to achieving the perfect consistency in the moo goo gai pan sauce. It thickens the sauce just enough to coat the chicken and veggies without being too heavy.

    Water: Last but not least, water! It’s what helps to bring all the ingredients together and create a delicious, cohesive sauce. It’s like the glue that holds everything together, and also helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

    Recipe for Moo Goo Gai Pan

    You can’t go wrong with this Chinese dinner staple. It’s quick, simple to make and served up hot and ready in less than 20 minutes. Time to gather up your ingredients and a saucepan! This saucy, savory dish is the perfect solution for a hungry family on busy weeknights.

    Cook Chicken: In a large skillet or wok add the olive oil and turn to medium high heat. Then salt and pepper the chicken and cook in the wok until cooked throughout and no longer pink. Remove and set aside on a plate.

    Sauté Vegetables: Add a tablespoon of olive oil and carrots and sauté until almost tender 1-2 minutes. Then add the mushrooms and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add in the water chestnuts and snow peas and sauté for a minute more.

    Whisk Sauce Ingredients: To make the sauce, whisk in a small bowl the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, hoisin, and sesame oil. Combine the cornstarch and water in another small bowl and whisk into the sauce.

    Combine: Add the chicken back to the wok and pour the sauce on top and let simmer until it starts to thicken.

    Tips and Tricks

    This moo goo gai pan recipe is foolproof and really hard to get wrong. But here are a few extra tips to make sure your meal turns out as delicious as your favorite Chinese restaurant!

    Vegetable Size: It’s best to cut the vegetables all the same size and width. This will help ensure that they cook evenly and at the same rate.

    Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Moo goo gai pan is all about fresh, crisp veggies. To ensure they retain their texture and flavor, don’t overcook them. They should be tender but still have a bit of crunch.

    Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken and veggies, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This can cause the ingredients to steam instead of sear, resulting in a mushy texture.

    Cutting Chicken: When cutting the chicken a simple trick is to place the chicken in the freezer for about 20 to 30 minutes. Letting the chicken become hard but not frozen helps cut the chicken easier. Be sure to cut against the grain for best results. At this time, it is best to slice the chicken into thin slices or one inch chunks depending on what you prefer.

    Keep Your Wok Hot: Make sure your wok or skillet is always hot when cooking the chicken and vegetables. This will help them become seared to perfection!

    Serve With Rice: Moo goo gai pan is traditionally served with steamed rice, which helps to soak up the delicious sauce and balance out the flavors. Yum!

    Make it a Complete Meal!

    These other easy Chinese dishes are great for serving alongside your moo goo gai pan! Adding a side salad like my Chinese Chicken Pasta Salad with Sesame Dressing, 20-Minute Vegetable Lo Mein or a simple white rice can make this into a complete meal that rivals your favorite takeout spot.

    Storing Leftovers

    If you have leftover moo goo gai pan, keep it! It’s so easy to heat up for a quick and delicious lunch. Chinese food is one of those things that tastes just as good the next day.

    In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

    Reheating: Reheat over the stove at medium heat until warmed through. Make sure the internal temperature of your chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Enjoy with white rice.

    Print

    Easy Moo Goo Gai Pan Recipe

    Moo Goo Gai Pan is a classic Chinese dish! Tender chicken pieces and mushrooms with crisp vegetables such as carrots, water chestnuts, and snow peas all stir-fried together with a savory sauce. Way better than take out and it only 20 minutes!
    Course Dinner, Main Course
    Cuisine Asian American, Chinese
    Keyword Moo Goo Gai Pan, Moo Goo Gai Pan Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes
    Servings 4 people
    Calories 419kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Equipment

    Want to make this even easier? Here are a few products that I LOVE:
    Wok or Skillet

    Ingredients

    2 tablespoons olive oil divided1 pound chicken thighs or breasts cubedsalt and pepper3 large carrots sliced8 ounces mushrooms sliced8 ounces water chestnuts1 cup snow peas1/4 cup chicken broth2 tablespoons soy sauce1 tablespoon brown sugar2 cloves garlic minced1 tablespoon hoisin sauce1 teaspoon sesame oil1 teaspoon cornstarch1 tablespoon waterchopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

    Instructions

    In a large skillet add the olive oil and turn to medium high heat. Salt and pepper the chicken and cook in the wok until cooked throughout and no longer pink. Remove and set aside on a plate.
    Add a tablespoon of olive oil and carrots and sauté until almost tender 1-2 minutes. Then add the mushrooms and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add in the water chestnuts and snowpeas and sauté for a minute more.
    To make the sauce, whisk in a small bowl the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, hoisin, and sesame oil. Combine the cornstarch and water in another small bowl and whisk into the sauce.
    Add the chicken back to the wok and pour the sauce on top and let simmer until it starts to thicken.

    Video

    Notes

    Originally posted January 26, 2020

    Updated on March 30, 2023

    Nutrition

    Calories: 419kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 750mg | Potassium: 706mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 7998IU | Vitamin C: 21mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 2mg
  • Tuna Steak

    There’s no reason to save Tuna Steaks for eating out, make them yourself for a gourmet restaurant experience in the comfort of your home. Not only are they full of healthy nutrients, they are delicious and a real treat any day of the week.

    I love all things sushi. If sushi is on the menu, I am definitely ordering it! I love tuna especially. I never really cooked with tuna at home because I thought it would be too difficult to cook, and I didn’t want to mess it up. But it’s actually easier to work with than you think! You’ll fall in love with these tuna steaks. Then you’ll have to try this Seared Ahi Tuna, this delicious Tuna Melt, and this yummy Poke Bowl with Tuna.

    Tuna Steak

    Tuna steaks are the best addition to any salad (especially this Asian Ramen Salad), or just served on top of some rice along with garlic edamame. They are so juicy and flavorful, and a great dish to serve for a special occasion. You can actually find tuna for a great price, which makes this dish a great option any day of the week. I ended up making this recipe twice in one week because we all loved it so much!

    I answer a lot of questions about what kind of tuna to choose and how to pick out the best piece in my tip box below. The best part about this recipe is it takes just minutes to cook! If you didn’t want to let it marinade, you can have these stakes ready in under 10 minutes. It’s flavorful and really unique! You can add more to the meal to make it more filling. I prefer serving them with instant pot rice and air fryer green beans.

    Ingredients

    You could get away with less ingredients than this, but I like to make a yummy marinade for these tuna steaks. It’s fun to add different flavors because you get a whole new experience each time. You could add things like honey, sesame seeds, parsley, and cayenne pepper. I love switching up the flavors all the time. You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    Water: This is to make the marinade.

    Lemon Juice: Acid goes great with tuna, and helps to bring out all the amazing flavors.

    Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is a fermented bean sauce that is salty and full of flavor. You can choose a low sodium version if you are worried about the salt content.

    Sesame Oil: It’s nutty and so flavorful, you’re going to love it!

    Cardamom: This adds warmth and sweetness to the dish.

    Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme goes great with tuna.

    Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper has more flavor, I always use it in the recipes that call for pepper.

    Garlic: Garlic cloves are the perfect pair with these other ingredients.

    Tuna Steaks: You should be able to find tuna steaks at your local grocery store in the fish section. Mine were a little less than an inch thick.

    Tuna Steak Recipe

    If you are confident cooking a regular steak, then you are overqualified for cooking a tuna steak. All you do is marinade and sear on a skillet! I prefer to use my cast iron, but a non-stick skillet will work great. Make sure that you pay attention to how thick your steak is because a thinner steak will cook faster, and a thicker steak may need a few more minutes on both sides. If you are cooking on a grill, then they will likely cook faster than on the skillet. The steaks should be seared on the outside and medium-rare on the inside.

    Mix Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine your water, lemon juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, cardamom, thyme, and minced garlic. Then mix until well combined.

    Add Marinade to Steaks: Pour your marinade into a large plastic bag and then place your tuna steaks in the bag with the marinade. Push out as much air as you can and thoroughly coat the steaks in the marinade.

    Marinade for 20 Mins: Allow the tuna steaks to marinate for 20 minutes at room temperature.

    Cook in Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium high heat, once the steaks are marinated and ready, then remove them from the bag and then place them on the heated skillet, cook each side for about 2 minutes. Brush the steaks with more of the marinade as they cook to add more flavor.

    Rest: Once you have cooked both sides of each steak remove them from the skillet, the internal temperature should reach 125 degrees fahrenheit. Allow them to rest for 2 minutes, they will continue to cook while they rest.

    Eat: Enjoy fresh!

    Tips for Making Tuna Steak

    I think we’ve all assumed that tuna steaks are hard to cook and expensive. Now that we know differently, here are a few more tips to make this recipe a huge hit. You and your family are going to love this one!

    Type of Skillet: I prefer to use my cast iron skillet. I have a very well-seasoned skillet which makes it pretty non-stick. Fish can stick to the pan if your pan isn’t hot enough and properly seasoned. Make sure to follow the instructions with the heat, or use a non-stick skillet if you are worried. The last thing you want is half of your steak sticking to the bottom of the pan!

    Choosing Tuna Steaks: If you have never bought a tuna steak before, don’t be intimidated! They should be in the seafood section at your local grocery store. You can even find them for a good price most of the time. The color should be a nice dark pink. If it is turning brown or looks dull and matte, then that is an older steak and won’t taste as good. The steaks I chose were 4 ounces each and about an inch or ¾ of an inch thick. If you choose a thinner steak, you will not need to cook them for as long to get them to the perfect temperature. Make sure to not overcook your steak or it can become chewy and dry, and way less flavorful. Any kind of tuna will work, I prefer sushi-grade tuna like ahi tuna, bigeye tuna, yellowfin tuna, or bluefin tuna.

    Storing Leftovers

    Tuna steaks are best eaten fresh. You definitely don’t want to be making these ahead of time for your guests. If you do have leftovers, then here is how to store them.

    In the Refrigerator: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

    Print

    Tuna Steak

    There’s no reason to save Tuna Steaks for eating out, make them yourself for a gourmet restaurant experience in the comfort of your home. Not only are they full of healthy nutrients, they are delicious and a real treat any day of the week.
    Course Dinner
    Cuisine American, Asian American
    Keyword ahi tuna steaks, tuna steak
    Prep Time 30 minutes
    Cook Time 4 minutes
    Total Time 34 minutes
    Servings 4 people
    Calories 189kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    ¼ cup water2 tablespoons lemon juice¼ cup soy sauce3 tablespoons sesame oil1 teaspoon cardamom1 teaspoon thyme½ teaspoon pepper1 clove garlic minced4 4 ounce tuna steaks

    Instructions

    In a mixing bowl, combine your water, lemon juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, cardamom, thyme, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.
    Pour your marinade into a large plastic bag and place your tuna steaks in the bag with the marinade. Push out as much air as you can and thoroughly coat the steaks in the marinade.
    Allow the tuna steaks to marinate for 20 minutes at room temperature.
    Heat a skillet over medium high heat, once the steaks are marinated and ready, remove them from the bag and place them on the heated skillet, cook each side for about 2 minutes. Brush the steaks with more of the marinade as they cook to add more flavor.
    Once you have cooked both sides of each steak remove them from the skillet, the internal temperature should reach 125 degrees fahrenheit. Allow them to rest for 2 minutes, they will continue to cook while they rest.
    Enjoy fresh!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 189kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 833mg | Potassium: 196mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 1263IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Korean Strawberry Milk

    Homemade Korean strawberry milk is a sweet and fruity treat that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The blend of fresh strawberries and creamy milk creates a perfectly balanced flavor that is both indulgent and refreshing. Sipping on a glass of this cute and tasty beverage brings the café culture of Seoul straight to your kitchen!

    With the temperatures rising slowly but surely, it’s time to break out all of the refreshing drink recipes! Some of my favorites are Brazilian lemonade, a mango lassi, or a mint julep! Check out my full list of beverages here for more ideas.

    Homemade Korean Strawberry Milk

    My younger sister went to university in Korea, and one of the things she would always talk about was how amazing the cafes there were. She would send us pictures of all of the cute drinks, cakes, and pastries. The presentation was always beautiful! In Korea, cafe culture is huge. There’s even a name for it! “Hu-sik” is a term used for dessert, snacks, (or in this case drinks) that you have after dinner. It usually means going out for coffee and socializing with friends. Coffee and tea are both popular choices, but flavored milk is a unique offering in Korean cafes. It’s so delicious, you’re going to love it!

    Some of the popular flavors of milk drinks you’ll see are banana, melon, and strawberry. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it! To start off your new obsession, today’s recipe is for delicious strawberry milk. It’s super creamy, refreshing, and filled with chunks of juicy strawberry. The fresh strawberry flavor is out of this world! Plus, it’s beyond easy to make. You’ll have to try it out with all of your favorite fruits.

    Ingredients Needed

    This is everything I used to make this Korean strawberry milk! I wanted my drink to be creamy but still refreshing and filled with fruity flavor. Feel free to adjust yours to taste! If you’re looking for exact measurements, they can all be found in the recipe card below.

    Strawberries: The star of the show! You will want these to be hulled and chopped. Some of them will be made into a puree while others will be left in chunks to give the drink delicious texture.

    Granulated Sugar: To make the drink nice and sweet. You could also use simple syrup, maple syrup, honey, or agave. If you’re looking to cut down your sugar intake, you can also use Stevia or monkfruit sweetener.

    Lemon Juice: Just a splash to brighten up the overall flavor of the Korean strawberry milk.

    Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor to the drink. I recommend using pure vanilla extract or making your own blend for best results.

    Milk: I used 2% milk, but this recipe is super easy to make dairy-free. Feel free to use your favorite nut milk here! Check out my tips section below for more ideas.

    Additional Chopped Strawberries: (Optional) for garnish if desired. After all, the presentation is a huge component in making Korean-inspired drinks!

    How to Make Korean Strawberry Milk

    It’s so easy! Basically, what we’re going to do is make a strawberry puree, and then combine that with the rest of our ingredients to create the most creamy and delicious drink ever!

    Add Ingredients to Pot: Combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla in a medium-sized pot.

    Cook and Stir: Cook strawberry mixture over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes. Stir frequently until the berries release their juices and the sauce starts to thicken.

    Cool: Remove from heat and allow the strawberry jam to cool on the counter or in the refrigerator. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

    Add to Glass: To assemble the strawberry milk, add ¼ cup of strawberry sauce to a tall glass. I like to smear the sauce around the inside of the glass to make it pretty! Add additional diced strawberries at this time if you would like.

    Pour in Milk: Pour milk into the glass stirring to incorporate the sauce throughout the milk and enjoy!

    Tips and Variations

    Korean strawberry milk is so easy to customize. You can easily make it vegan and also switch up the flavors to personal preference! No matter how you prepare it, I know you will love this refreshing Korean drink as much as I do!

    Dairy-Free Milk Alternatives: Korean strawberry milk is so easy to make vegan! My favorite milk is light coconut milk because it adds refreshing coconut flavor. (Pink drink, anyone?) Full-fat coconut milk doesn’t blend as well but it’s very creamy! Just know that most non-dairy milk alternatives are more watery so the result of your drink will be different. You’ll have to test out different milks to see what your favorite is! Try: almond milk (unsweetened or vanilla), soy milk (great for creaminess!) cashew milk or almond milk, oat milk, or rice milk!

    Adding Other Flavors: Hybrid drinks are super popular in Korea. One popular combo is strawberry milk that has been layered with matcha green tea. Not only is it beautiful with the green and pink colors, but it tastes amazing! It’s earthy, creamy, and sweet!

    The Best Straws to Use: In Korea, these types of drinks are served with big straws similar to what you’d get with bubble tea. This way, you get delicious chunks of strawberry in each sip!

    Toppings: Try adding in tapioca pearls to make strawberry boba, or popping pearls for an extra burst of juicy flavor! You can typically find these online or at your local Asian market. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream is great too if you want something sweeter!

    Storing Leftovers

    Korean strawberry milk is best served fresh, but you can also keep it in an airtight bottle or jar in the fridge for a few days after it’s made.

    In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight bottle or jar for up to 3 days. The ingredients may settle, so give it a stir before serving it.

    Print

    Korean Strawberry Milk

    Homemade Korean strawberry milk is a sweet and fruity treat that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The blend of fresh strawberries and creamy milk creates a perfectly balanced flavor that is both indulgent and refreshing. Sipping on a glass of this cute and tasty beverage brings the café culture of Seoul straight to your kitchen!
    Course Beverage
    Cuisine Korean
    Keyword Korean strawberry milk, korean strawberry milk recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes
    Servings 8
    Calories 288kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    1 pound strawberries, hulled and chopped1/3 cup granulated sugar2 teaspoons lemon juice1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract1 gallon 2 % milk, or nut milk of choiceadditional chopped strawberries for garnish if desired

    Instructions

    Combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla in a medium-sized pot.
    Cook over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes. Stir frequently until the berries release their juices and the sauce starts to thicken.
    Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool on the counter or in the refrigerator. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
    To assemble the strawberry milk, add ¼ cup of strawberry sauce to a tall glass. I like to smear the sauce around the inside of the glass to make it pretty! Add additional diced strawberries at this time if you would like.
    Pour milk into the glass stirring to incorporate the sauce throughout the milk and enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 2cups | Calories: 288kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 38mg | Sodium: 223mg | Potassium: 751mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 490IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 577mg | Iron: 0.3mg
  • Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao)

    Chinese soup dumplings are delicious homemade wrappers filled with perfectly seasoned pork and soup. Yes, these dumplings are FILLED with soup! How do you get soup inside of a dumpling? It’s like magic! This recipe is simple, delicious, and something everyone will enjoy.

    I love Chinese food. It’s definitely my takeout of choice. Luckily for me, the whole family loves it too! I really enjoy making simple Chinese food at home too, because it’s a great way to save a little money and get the best flavors. Some of my favorite homemade recipes are Wonton Soup, this delicious Moo Goo Gai Pan, and this Firecracker Chicken.

    Soup Dumpling

    If you have never had a Chinese soup dumpling, you are going to fall in love with this recipe! If you don’t know what a soup dumpling is, I think you are going to love the idea. It is a dumpling with a pork and broth filling. That’s right, there is soup INSIDE the dumpling! You bite into this delicious and soft wrapper and out pours this flavor packed chicken stock and soy sauce broth.

    This soup dumpling, also called a Xiao Long Bao, is absolutely one of the best dishes I’ve eaten in my entire life! It’s full of Asian flavors that are so easy to keep eating and eating. This recipe keeps things simple by cooking them in a steamer just like chicken potstickers. These dumplings can also be cooked in a bamboo steamer or cooked in a wok. I love eating these with garlic edamame and dipping them in Chinese black vinegar. They are also delicious with white rice to make it a more filling meal!

    Ingredients

    The ingredients in these soup dumplings are actually so simple! Straightforward and easy to make, these dumplings are now at the top of my list of fun and creative meals. My whole family looks forward to these dumplings so much. You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    Soup Gelatin

    Hot Water: To balance out the strong flavors in the broth.

    Hot Chicken Stock: You could also use pork broth or beef broth, or even vegetable stock.

    Soy Sauce: This adds a lot of flavor to the gelatin.

    Gelatin Powder: This helps the soup set up firm so that you can add it to the filling.

    Soup Dumpling Wrapper

    All-Purpose Flour: Easy to work with and a simple dough.

    Warm Water: This helps the dough come together.

    Salt: To add a little extra flavor.

    Filling

    Ground Pork: This is the traditional protein, but you could use ground chicken or ground beef if you want to.

    Sesame Oil: Sesame oil is really nutty and earthy and goes perfectly with Asian flavors and pork.

    Soy Sauce: I love adding soy sauce to the filling too

    Ginger: Fresh ginger is full of zingy flavor.

    Sugar: A little sugar helps to balance out the salty flavors.

    Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the meat. I often use white pepper instead of black.

    Rice Vinegar: Is made from fermented rice and has a mild and slightly sweet flavor. You could use rice wine vinegar too.

    Green Onion: This brightens up the filling and adds extra flavor.

    Chinese Black Vinegar: This is for dipping your dumpling in, it’s amazing!

    Soup Dumplings Recipe

    I really love this soup dumplings recipe because of how straightforward it is! I steam my buns in an instant pot because of how easy it is, but you can absolutely use a traditional pot and boil some water and do it the old-fashioned way! If you love dumplings from the freezer section at the grocery store, then you are going to fall in love with these fresh and delicious flavors.

    Make Soup Gelatin

    Mix Stock and Gelatin: In a medium bowl, add your water and chicken stock and then heat in the microwave for about 1 minute. Then add in your soy sauce and gelatin and then mix until all the gelatin has dissolved.

    Cool: Pour your gelatin mixture into a shallow tray, about an 8X8 baking sheet, and then cool in the fridge until the gelatin has set, about an hour.

    Fluff: When the gelatin has set, remove it from the fridge and then fluff/ break it up with a fork. Then set aside.

    Soup Dumpling Wrapper

    Make Dough: In a medium bowl, add your flour, water and salt. Mix well using a spoon. Once dough has begun to come together, then knead it with your hands until it is a smooth dough. Cover and then allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes.

    Soup Dumpling Filling

    Mix Filling: In a large bowl, add in your ground pork, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, sugar, salt, pepper, rice vinegar, and green onion. Then mix until well combined.

    Put It All Together

    Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll your dough into a log and then cut into 30 even pieces. Then roll each piece of dough out into a thin round disk.

    Add Filling: Take a prepared rolled-out disk and then fill it with about a tablespoon of your pork filling and 1 teaspoon of soup gelatin.

    Fold Closed: To fold the dumpling, place it in the palm of your hand and fold the edges of the dumpling wrapper in on itself into pleats until it is all joined at the top of the dumpling. Then pinch tightly to secure the wrapper closed, you don’t want any of your soup to leak out while they are cooking.

    Steam: In an instant pot with a steamer basket sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, set the instant pot to steam for 8 minutes. Allow the steaming time to finish and then do a quick steam release to take the dumplings out.

    Dip and Enjoy: Enjoy fresh with Chinese black vinegar!

    Tips for Making Soup Dumplings

    Soup dumplings are amazingly simple to make, and these tips are going to make your life even easier. I walk you through how to use a bamboo steamer to get the best results in this recipe, and how to freeze them for a quick and easy meal.

    Different Ways to Steam Dumplings: The traditional way to steam soup dumplings is in a bamboo steamer. This one is cheap and can be found at your local Target. I personally love steaming things in my instant pot. Using a bamboo steamer is really pretty simple, the first time you do it it can seem a little intimidating. Just fill a wok or skillet with water and bring to a boil. Line your bamboo steamer with liners, and lay your dumplings on top. Make sure they aren’t touching and have plenty of room. Set the steamer in the wok or pot and steam for 8 minutes.

    Make Freezer Dumplings: I absolutely love the pre-cooked frozen dumplings from Costco. You can make your own at home with this recipe! Follow these instructions to make the soup dumplings. Let them completely cool, and then freeze them on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Make sure they aren’t touching each other. When they have frozen for a few hours, then you can place them in an airtight bag and store for two months. Now you have dumplings that you can steam or boil until they are heated through and you’ve got the perfect quick and easy meal.

    Storing Leftovers

    Check out the tip box above for how to turn this soup dumpling recipe into a freezer meal! You can also store your dumplings in the fridge after you have cooked them. I recommend eating them fresh because they are hard to reheat. If you really want to cut down on prep time the day of, you can make the gelatin broth and fill ahead of time, then make the dough and assemble them when you are ready to cook them.

    In the Refrigerator: You can store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

    Print

    Soup Dumplings

    Chinese soup dumplings are delicious homemade wrappers filled with perfectly seasoned pork and soup. Yes, these dumplings are FILLED with soup! How do you get soup inside of a dumpling? It’s like magic! This recipe is simple, delicious, and something everyone will enjoy.
    Course Dinner
    Cuisine Asian, Chinese
    Keyword chinese dumplings, pork dumplings, soup dumplings
    Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
    Cook Time 20 minutes
    Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
    Servings 30 dumplings
    Calories 55kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Soup gelatin

    ¼ cup hot water¼ cup hot chicken stock2 tablespoons soy sauce2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder

    Wrapper

    2 cups all purpose flour¾ cup warm water1 teaspoon salt

    Filling

    ½ pound ground pork1 teaspoon sesame oil1 teaspoons soy sauce1 teaspoon ginger freshly grated1 teaspoon sugar½ teaspoon salt½ teaspoon pepper2 teaspoons rice vinegar1 tablespoon green onion finely choppedChinese black vinegar for serving

    Instructions

    Soup Gelatin

    In a medium bowl, add your water and chicken stock and heat in the microwave for about 1 minute. Add in your soy sauce and gelatin and mix until all the gelatin has dissolved.
    Pour your gelatin mixture into a shallow tray, about an 8X8 baking sheet, and cool in the fridge until the gelatin has set, about an hour.
    When the gelatin has set, remove it from the fridge and fluff/ break it up with a fork. Set aside.

    Wrapper

    In a medium bowl, add your flour, water and salt. Mix well using a spoon. Once dough has begun to come together, knead it with your hands until it is a smooth dough. Cover and allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes.

    Filling

    In a large bowl, add in your ground pork, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, sugar, salt, pepper, rice vinegar, and green onion. Mix until well combined.

    Assembly

    On a lightly floured surface, roll your dough into a log and cut into 30 even pieces. Roll each piece of dough out into a thin round disk.
    Take a prepared rolled out disk and fill it with about a tablespoon of your pork filling and 1 teaspoon of soup gelatin.
    To fold the dumpling, place it in the palm of your hand and fold the edges of the dumpling wrapper in on itself into pleats until it is all joined at the top of the dumpling. Pinch tightly to secure the wrapper closed, you don’t want any of your soup to leak out while they are cooking.
    In an instant pot with a steamer basket sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, set the instant pot to steam for 8 minutes. Allow the steaming time to finish and do a quick steam release to take the dumplings out.
    Enjoy fresh with Chinese black vinegar!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 55kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 203mg | Potassium: 37mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 3mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Twice Baked Potatoes

    What’s better than a regular baked potato? A twice baked potato, of course! They are the ultimate comfort food – creamy, savory, and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for one or for a crowd, these spuds are easy to make and impossible to resist.

    I’m a sucker for potatoes in every form. Fries, baked potatoes, scalloped potatoes, there’s no wrong way to make a spud. If you’re looking for more knock-out side dishes, you’ll have to try these hasselback potatoes or duchess potatoes next! They’re the perfect addition to any hearty meal.

    Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe

    Let’s be real. Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. And when it comes to the potato hierarchy, twice baked potatoes reign supreme. This is one potato recipe that I feel like is often overlooked. What’s not to love about a fluffy, creamy potato stuffed with gooey cheese, savory bacon bits, and zesty seasonings? Twice-baked potatoes are so good, it’s time to bring them back into the dinner rotation! Trust me, your family will thank you.

    Not only are twice baked potatoes delicious, they’re also the perfect side dish. They pair well with just about any main course, from juicy steak to tender chicken to flaky salmon. And let’s not forget about their versatility! You can customize them to your heart’s content with your favorite toppings and add-ins. Plus, they’re super easy to make ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve. So next time you’re in need of a comfort food fix, whip up a batch of twice baked potatoes and let the good times roll!

    Ingredients Needed

    Twice-baked potatoes use a lot of simple ingredients, and the best part is- you can customize them to whatever you have on hand! Feel free to add in any additional toppings or mix-ins as well! Check out my tips section below for more topping ideas, and the recipe card at the end of the post for all the measurements I used.

    Large Russet Potatoes: The backbone of this delicious dish, these starchy potatoes are the perfect vessel for all of your favorite toppings. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try substituting sweet potatoes or even yams for a fun twist. Twice baked sweet potatoes are so wonderful!

    Sour Cream: Adds a creamy texture and a zesty flavor to the potatoes. If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, you can also try substituting it for Greek yogurt instead.

    Butter: Adds a smooth texture and a savory flavor to the potatoes.

    Milk: Helps to thin out the potato mixture and create a silky texture. You can use any type of milk you prefer, from whole milk to almond milk.

    Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show, this gooey, melty cheese takes these potatoes to the next level. You can also mix it up with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or gouda!

    Salt: Don’t skip the salt, it helps to bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes and other ingredients.

    Pepper: Feel free to adjust to taste!

    Bacon: Everything’s better with bacon, right? This salty, smoky goodness adds a crispy texture and a savory flavor to the potatoes. For easy prep, use precooked bacon! You can also try baking your bacon for fresh, delicious flavor.

    Chopped Green Onions: Add a pop of color and a bright, oniony flavor to the potatoes.

    Why Russet Potatoes?

    Ah, the mighty russet potato – the king of the potato world! When it comes to making twice baked potatoes, russets are the way to go. For starters, they have a high starch content, which means they get nice and fluffy when baked. Plus, their skins are nice and thick, which makes them the perfect vessel for holding all of your favorite toppings!

    How to Make Twice Baked Potatoes

    The hardest part about this recipe is waiting for the potatoes to bake. Everything else is a breeze! Psst- if you’re short on time, you can try “baking” your potatoes first in the Instant Pot. It cuts the prep time in half! Find my full recipe here.

    Preheat Oven, Prep Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and then prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil. Prepare your potatoes to be baked, clean the potatoes and poke them each along the body with a fork so air can circulate.

    Bake Potatoes: Bake the potatoes until they are tender, about 1 hour 20 minutes. Remove the potatoes from the oven and then allow them to cool enough to handle. While potatoes are baking, cook your bacon and cut them into small bits.

    Scoop Out Potatoes: Cut each baked potato in half, lengthwise, and then scoop the potato flesh from the skins, keeping the skins intact.

    Combine With Other Ingredients: To a medium bowl, add the scooped potatoes, sour cream, butter, milk, ⅔ of the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, half of your prepared bacon bits, and half of your green onions. Then using a hand mixer, whisk the mashed potato filling together until it is well mixed and creamy. You can also use a potato masher.

    Add Back to Potato Skins: Scoop the mashed potato mix into each hollowed out skin, dividing it evenly between all 8 skins. Once your skins are filled again, top each one with your reserved cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.

    Bake Again: Line the filled and topped potatoes back on the baking sheet and then bake them for an additional 15 minutes.

    Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your twice baked potatoes fresh!

    Tips and Delicious Variations

    Like baked potatoes, twice baked potatoes can be made in so many different ways, with so many different toppings! Here are a few ways to perfect this soft, cheesy potato dish. They’re going to fly off the table!

    Don’t Overcook: Don’t overcook your potatoes! You want them to be tender, but not falling apart.

    Add Cheese on Top: Save some cheese for the topping! Don’t mix all of the cheese into the potato mixture – save a little bit to sprinkle on top for extra cheesy goodness.

    More Toppings: Get creative with your toppings. Bacon and green onions are classic choices, but you can also try adding things like jalapenos, sun-dried tomatoes, or even chili! You could also add a drizzle of cheese sauce or BBQ sauce to make it extra ooey-gooey and delicious. I have even seen people top their twice-baked potatoes with a drizzle of alfredo sauce. Yum!

    Storing / Reheating

    Twice baked potatoes are so good, I doubt you’ll have any left over. But just in case, here’s how to keep them tasting nice and fresh!

    In the Refrigerator: Store potatoes in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

    Reheating Twice-Baked Potatoes

    In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the potatoes from the fridge and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

    In the Microwave: Place the potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to check them frequently to avoid overcooking.

    In the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until heated through. You can also spray the potatoes with a little bit of cooking spray for extra crispiness.

    Print

    Twice Baked Potatoes

    What’s better than a regular baked potato? A twice baked potato, of course! They are the ultimate comfort food – creamy, savory, and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for one or for a crowd, these spuds are easy to make and impossible to resist.
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword twice baked potato recipe, twice baked potatoes
    Prep Time 1 hour 20 minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
    Servings 8 people
    Calories 343kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    4 large russet potatoes1 cup sour cream cup butter cup milk1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided1 teaspoon salt½ teaspoon pepper6 strips bacon¼ cup chopped green onions

    Instructions

    Preheat your oven to 375 degrees fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil. Prepare your potatoes to be baked, clean the potatoes and poke them each along the body with a fork.
    Bake the potatoes until they are tender, about 1 hour 20 minutes. Remove the potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool enough to handle. While potatoes are baking, cook your bacon and cut them into small bits.
    Cut each baked potato in half, lengthwise, and scoop the potatoes from the skins, keeping the skins intact.
    To a medium bowl, add the scooped potatoes, sour cream, butter, milk, ⅔ of the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, half of your prepared bacon bits, and half of your green onions. Using a hand mixer, whisk everything together until it is well mixed and creamy.
    Scoop the potato mix into each hollowed out skin, dividing it evenly between all 8 skins. Once your skins are filled again, top each one with your reserved cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.
    Line the filled and topped potatoes back on the baking sheet and bake them for an additional 15 minutes.
    Serve and enjoy fresh!

    Notes

    Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 343kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 64mg | Sodium: 572mg | Potassium: 551mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 612IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 161mg | Iron: 1mg