Labor Day Menu Plan

This Labor Day Menu Plan will make your party planning so easy! End the summer with these amazing recipes. Don’t forget that I included a shopping list which will save you so much time!

Aren’t holidays fun? Any excuse to whip up delicious recipes and I am in! This creamy ranch dip is our absolute favorite for any occasion!!

Delicious Labor Day Menu

Send summer out with a bang with this yummy Labor Day menu plan. School has already started so spending time party planning is just not in the cards for me which is why this menu plan is perfect.

I’ve included a few options for entrees, sides and desserts. Cook them all to feed a crowd or pick one of each if it’s a smaller gathering! And if you are like me and want a meal plan every week, check out my weekly meal plans here.

Entree:  Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Entree: Slow Cooker Sweet Carolina Pulled Pork Sliders

Side: BLT Tortellini Pasta Salad

Side: Loaded Creamy Ranch Dip (Poolside Dip)

Dessert: No Bake S’mores Pie

Dessert: Peach Dump Cake

How Many Does This Feed

Each recipe on this Labor meal plan is meant to feed about 6-8 adults so if you are making all of them, this amount of food should easily be able to feed about 15+ people. More if its a combination of adults and kids!

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

4.75 from 35 votes
Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Skewers marinate in the very best homemade Hawaiian teriyaki sauce! Loaded with peppers, fresh pineapple and red onions, these make an incredible and vibrant meal!

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Slow Cooker Sweet Carolina Pulled Pork Sliders

5 from 3 votes
Slow Cooker Sweet Carolina Pulled Pork Sliders are crazy tender, juicy and messy, the way a slider should be! The pork slow cooks all day in an amazing spice rub and sweet vinegar and will be a huge hit!

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BLT Tortellini Pasta Salad

5 from 3 votes
BLT Tortellini Pasta Salad is your favorite sandwich turned into a delicious, refreshing salad you can share with others. This salad is so easy to make and perfect for serving at any gathering. With loads of bacon, crisp Romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and cheese-filled tortellini, it’s sure to be a hit!

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Loaded Creamy Ranch Dip (Poolside Dip)

4.80 from 5 votes
Loaded Creamy Ranch Dip is packed with so many delicious flavors you won’t be able to get enough of it! Perfect for the pool or potlucks!

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No Bake S’mores Pie

This No Bake S’mores Pie is the easiest summer dessert! A graham cracker crust is loaded with chocolate filling and topped with marshmallow cream!

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Peach Dump Cake

5 from 4 votes
This 5-ingredient peach dump cake is a super easy dessert that is full of warm, cinnamony goodness. Top it off with a scoop of ice cream for a peachy, indulgent dessert the whole family will love.

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More Sides for Labor Day

Adding in extra sides is a great way to feed a crowd. Add a little variety to your holiday menu plan with some of my favorites!

Croissant Bread

4 hrs

How to Boil Corn on the Cob

15 mins

Italian Corn Salad

15 mins

Raspberry Fluff Salad

5 mins

Holiday Leftovers

This menu for Labor Day can feed a lot! If you have leftovers, make sure to store them properly in an airtight container in your fridge and they should last you a couple of days!

Chipotle Seasoning

Enjoy a perfect blend of smoky and spicy flavors with this homemade Chipotle Seasoning! Featuring bold spices like chipotle powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and more, this mix delivers a major flavor boost. Try it on everything from chicken to ground beef!

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Flavorful! This chipotle seasoning will undoubtedly take any of your Mexican dishes to the next level. Furthermore, this blend has a wonderful depth of flavor with layers of earthy, smoky, and slightly spicy notes. You’re going to love it!

Ready in 5 Minutes! This spice blend is so quick to make. You can even make it in bulk in a matter of just a few minutes! Just combine the herbs and spices, and give them a stir or shake.  

Versatile: There are so many amazing ways to use this! I love it on grilled chicken or even sprinkled over buttery corn on the cob.

Chipotle Seasoning Recipe

Who needs pre-made seasoning packets when you have an amazing, perfectly smoky chipotle seasoning? This blend is a mouthwatering combination of 7 flavorful herbs and ground spices. Use it on meats like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables, and spice up your favorite marinade or dressing!

I love to add it to grilled shrimp and vegetable kabobs, and it’s a great alternative to taco seasoning in this taco spaghetti dish. Or make a chipotle dip by replacing the taco seasoning in our taco dip. It’s sure to delight your tastebuds!

What’s in Chipotle Seasoning?

This chipotle seasoning recipe is a simple mix of spices that come together for major flavor. Not only is it easy to make, but you’ll also want to add it to all of your Mexican and Southwest-inspired meals. For the exact measurements, just follow the recipe card below.

Chipotle powder: Adds a bold flavor and a bit of smoky heat to the mix.

Paprika: Use smoked paprika for an even more smoky flavor.

Cumin: The earthy taste of cumin pairs really well with paprika and is common in Mexican cuisine.

Garlic powder: A must for any savory seasoning mix.

Oregano: Has a deep, earthy flavor that balances the more spicy flavors.

Coriander: This is a fresh-tasting spice that adds a bit of a sweet, lemony flavor.

Salt: To enhance all of the other flavors in the mix.

How to Make Homemade Chipotle Seasoning

You’ll want to double this recipe so you always have chipotle seasoning on hand. It stores well for months and can be used with a variety of recipes.

Combine Spices: First, add all of the ingredients to a small bowl.

Store: Next, whisk to combine. Then, using a funnel, pour the seasoning into an airtight jar or container. You can use it right away, or alternatively, store it in a dry, cool place.

Tips and How to Use Chipotle Spice Mix

You will absolutely love using this spice mix to add flavor to meat, veggies, and so much more! You can even use it as a marinade or a dry rub.

Ways to Use: This seasoning is great for meat rubs, chicken, beef, or fish. It’s also tasty on vegetables or to use in recipes that need smoky Mexican flavors or seasoning.

Make a Marinade: To use this seasoning as a marinade, combine the following ingredients, then add chicken, pork, or beef. Marinate for 15 minutes then grill or cook as desired:

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons lime juice

2 tablespoons water

2 tablespoons chipotle seasoning

2 pounds meat

How Much to Use: I would recommend using 1-2 tablespoons per pound of meat. However, you can adjust the amount depending on how boldly flavored you want your meat to taste! Keep in mind that this chipotle seasoning is packed with bold spices, a little goes a long way! So, always add less than you think you need at first and adjust from there.

Substitute for Taco Seasoning: This can easily be used in place of taco seasoning, especially for chipotle-flavored tacos, chili, or soups.

Want More Spice? If you’re craving extra heat, then simply add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper.

Storing Chipotle Seasoning

This seasoning will last up to 6 months when stored in a dry place. Keep your homemade seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. I like to make a big batch of this spice blend to have on hand.

More Delicious Seasoning Recipes

Spice blends made at home always taste fresher and more delicious, and in addition, you can easily create unique and different varieties. Here are a few more recipes you need to try out. They’re some of my favorites that I use all the time!

Seasoning Salt

5 mins

Shawarma Seasoning

5 mins

Homemade Cajun Seasoning

5 mins

Homemade Italian Seasoning

5 mins

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Chipotle Seasoning

Enjoy a perfect blend of smoky and spicy flavors with this homemade Chipotle Seasoning! Featuring bold spices like chipotle powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and more, this mix delivers a major flavor boost. Try it on everything from chicken to ground beef!
Course pantry staple
Cuisine Mexican, Mexican American
Keyword chipotle seasoning
Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
Total Time 5 minutes minutes
Servings 6 tablespoons
Calories 20kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

2 tablespoons chipotle powder1 tablespoon paprika1 tablespoon cumin2 teaspoons garlic powder2 teaspoons oregano2 teaspoons coriander1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Add all of the ingredients in a small bowl.
Whisk to combine. Using a funnel, pour the seasoning into an airtight jar or container. Use right away or store in a dry, cool place.

Nutrition

Calories: 20kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Sodium: 435mg | Potassium: 118mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 1.391IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 2mg

Baked Turkey Meatballs

Baked Turkey Meatballs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. They’re made with simple ingredients but big on flavor! These homemade meatballs are easy to make and healthy for the whole family!

We love meatballs at our house! There are so many tasty versions that it’s hard to pick just one! I have some family favorites that you need to try. Swedish Meatballs are always requested, and my kids always beg for these fun Porcupine Meatballs. But if you’re looking for the perfect appetizer to serve at your next party, these Grape Jelly Meatballs are a MUST!

Reasons to Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Dinner: These baked turkey meatballs are a quick and easy weeknight dinner! They only take 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake. Dinner will be ready in 30 minutes! 

Versatile: Turkey meatballs can served in so many different ways. Switch up the seasonings any way you like, or smother them with any flavor of sauce. Enjoy them in a sandwich, or on top of rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes!

Healthy Alternative: Ground turkey is a healthy option for homemade meatballs. The result is fewer calories, lots of protein, and less fat than ground beef.

The Best Baked Turkey Meatballs

Everyone loves to eat meatballs, especially kids. These baked turkey meatballs are an easy winner for dinner and will be a new family favorite! The ground turkey bakes up so juicy and tender that you won’t believe it’s ground turkey. My recipe is perfectly seasoned with onion, garlic, and Italian breadcrumbs. The texture and moisture in these baked turkey meatballs will blow your mind! You’ll devour every bite and wish you had leftovers!

These baked meatballs are amazing all on their own. Place them on a mound of noodles and smothered in one of these incredible sauces and they will be divine. Try them with my Basil Pesto Sauce, this easy Marinara Sauce, or this delicious Homemade Alfredo Sauce. It’s the perfect meatball recipe for anything!

Ground Turkey vs Ground Beef

Which one is better for you? Both turkey and beef are great sources of protein with a variety of vitamins and minerals. Turkey is generally lower in saturated fat than beef and so is a better choice for heart health. All of the health benefits of depend on the cut and quality of turkey and beef, but ground turkey is generally a healthier option.

Ingredients for Turkey Meatballs

These baked turkey meatballs use simple ingredients that you may already have on hand. Ground turkey is easy to find at any store and is a healthy alternative to beef. Your family will love these meatballs so much that they won’t even miss the beef!

Ground Turkey: This can be found near the ground beef.

Italian Bread Crumbs: I love that these bread crumbs are already seasoned.

Onion: Dice one small onion.

Eggs: The eggs act as a binder.

Milk: Adds a bit of moisture and helps keep it all together.

Garlic: Minced or finely chopped.

Salt and Pepper: Season to taste

How to Make Baked Turkey Meatballs

These turkey meatballs are super easy to throw together. Roll them up and bake them for juicy perfection. They are so good and a healthier alternative to beef meatballs. You’ll want to keep them in a regular rotation for weeknight dinners!

Combine Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a medium baking dish with non-stick spray and set aside. Combine all of the meatball ingredients into a medium bowl.

Mix: Mix together until incorporated.

Roll: Roll the mixture into 1 ½-2-inch balls and place in the prepared baking dish.

Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the tops are lightly browned.

Tips For Moist Baked Turkey Meatballs

I have lots of good tips to help you achieve perfectly moist and delicious turkey meatballs. It’s so easy to make homemade meatballs and this ground turkey version is the BEST!

Moisture: Turkey is leaner than beef so can dry out quickly. If you find your meatballs are too dry add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture. Overcooking the meatballs can also dry them out, so be sure to remove them from the oven once they reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Chopping: I love to throw the onion and garlic into a small food processor and pulse it several times. This is a quick way to mince them up and make them easy to add to the meatball mixture.

Breadcrumbs: Instead of Italian breadcrumbs, you can substitute plain breadcrumbs and add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Panko breadcrumbs can also be used!

Uniform Size: Keep the meatballs the same size as much as possible. This will ensure that they cook at the same rate and some won’t be underdone or overdone. You can use a cookie scoop or a kitchen scale to help keep them uniform.

Don’t Overmix: This can cause the meatball mixture to break down and become tough. It can also make the meatballs hard to form and turn them into meat patties instead of meatballs.

Flavor Variations: There are many ways to make these meatballs sing with even more flavor if you wish. Add a couple of teaspoons of finely chopped fresh herbs, ⅓-½ cup of parmesan or other grated cheese, or a dash or two of spices that will complement your dish. They are so easy to customize and make how you wish.

Storing Leftover Baked Turkey Meatballs

These baked turkey meatballs are so easy to store and freeze for a later time. I love to make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for busy weeknights.

In the Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container or sealable zip lock bag. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.

To Reheat: Reheat them in the microwave for a few minutes in the microwave until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the air fryer at 390 degrees Fahrenheit. 

In the Freezer: Allow the cooked meatballs to cool to room temperature. Place on a cookie tray and cover loosely with plastic wrap then freeze for 2 hours. Transfer the partially frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe gallon zip lock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm them straight from the freezer in the microwave at 50% power till heated through.

More Meatball Recipes to Love

Crockpot BBQ Meatballs

2 hrs 5 mins

Saucy Asian Meatballs

22 mins

Meatball Casserole

35 mins

The Best Meatball Sub

15 mins

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Baked Turkey Meatballs

Baked Turkey Meatballs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. They’re made with simple ingredients but big on flavor! These homemade meatballs are easy to make and healthy for the whole family!
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword baked turkey meatballs, easy homemade meatballs, healthy meatballs, turkey meatballs
Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes minutes
Total Time 30 minutes minutes
Servings 5 People
Calories 238kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey1 cup Italian breadcrumbs1 small onion, diced3 cloves garlic, minced2 large eggs¼ cup milk½ teaspoon salt¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a medium baking dish with pan spray and set aside.
Mix all the ingredients in a medium bowl until everything is incorporated. Roll the mixture into 1 ½-2-inch balls and place in the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the tops are lightly browned.

Video

Notes

*Or you can use regular breadcrumbs with 1 Tablespoon of Italian seasoning

 

Updated on August 21, 2024

Originally Posted on January 3, 2021

Nutrition

Serving: 4meatballs | Calories: 238kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 117mg | Sodium: 630mg | Potassium: 406mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 185IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 2mg

Smothered Chicken

Smothered chicken is a flavorful comfort food full of rich, creamy gravy, tender chicken cutlets, and savory mushrooms. Perfect on its own or paired with mashed potatoes, rice or pasta, you’re family will definitely want this on the weekly meal plan.

If I can give you anything, it would be stress-free dinner time and for your family to love what you serve. I am confident that this smothered chicken delivers on both! Simply pair this with my crockpot mashed potatoes, 1-hour dinner rolls, and garlic parmesan green beans with bacon. Dinner is served!

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor: This meal is full of warm comforting flavor that your family will want to come home to.

Budget-friendly: The ingredients needed will not break the bank, which is very helpful in today’s world.

Simple: The ingredient list might seem long, but this dish comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Smothered Chicken and Gravy

If you are looking for the taste of home, this meal will definitely give you that. With its roots planted in Southern cooking, this smothered chicken is not only flavorful but also rich in history. Traditionally, people serve this dish over rice. However, over time, cooks have adapted it to incorporate other traditions, such as serving it over mashed potatoes or pasta. Personally, I’ve enjoyed it with all three options and loved each one of them! In fact, it’s even delicious just on its own!

By cooking the chicken before smothering it in gravy, we get all the rich flavors that meld together from the browning process. You’ll be amazed at how simple this dish is, and it will quickly become a family favorite!

What Ingredients Do You Need to Make Smothered Chicken?

This list might seem long, but it mostly includes the herbs and spices needed to create that delicious flavor. For exact measurements, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Chicken Breast: The perfect protein to absorb and complement all of the flavors going on in the dish.

Egg: Acts as a binding agent to help the breading stick to the chicken cutlets.

Heavy Whipping Cream: Gives the dish a creaminess and depth of flavor and helps thicken the gravy.

All-Purpose Flour: Helps the breading stick to the chicken and contributes to the thickening of the gravy.

Breadcrumbs: Provide a crunch to the breading of the chicken and a warm flavor.

Garlic Powder: Gives the dish a wonderful savory flavor that balances the creaminess of the sauce.

Oregano: A vibrant herb that adds a bright flavor.

Onion Powder: Enhances the depth of flavor and provides a consistent taste in each bite.

Salt: Complements each flavor in the dish, enhancing the overall taste and comfort appeal.

Pepper: Adds a note of spice and enhances the other flavors.

Olive Oil: Keeps the chicken moist and tender during the cooking process.

Yellow Onion: Provides a sweet and savory flavor with a soft and tender texture.

Mushrooms: These perfectly absorb all of the flavors in the dish and add a wonderful texture that complements the chicken.

Gravy

Butter: Helps thicken the gravy and adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.

All-Purpose Flour: This flour is used to create a roux, which combines the flavor of the browned onions and will make the sauce thick.

Beef Broth: The base of the gravy adds a rich, savory flavor.

Heavy Whipping Cream: Gives the gravy its creamy texture and flavor.

Worcestershire Sauce: This is the secret ingredient that will make this dish delicious, and no one will understand how!

Mustard Powder: Adds a gentle heat and warmth to the gravy.

Salt and Pepper: To taste!

Smothered Chicken Recipe

Follow the simple steps below to enjoy this mouth-watering meal in less than an hour. This recipe will guide you through each step of the process to make sure you get the same results every time.

Chicken

Prepare Chicken: First, slice the chicken breasts in half to create four thinner cuts of chicken.

Egg Mixture: First, whisk together the egg and heavy whipping cream in a bowl until well combined.

Breadcrumb Mixture: Meanwhile, whisk together the flour, bread crumbs, garlic powder, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.

Coat the Chicken in the Egg Mixture: Next, working with one cutlet at a time, coat the chicken in the egg mixture and allow any excess liquid to drip off before moving to the next step.

Bread Chicken: Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly on all sides.

Cook Chicken: Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Gravy

Saute Mushrooms: Remove any burnt bits from the bottom of the pan, then add the onion and mushrooms to the pan. Saute until the onions are translucent and tender. Remove the mushrooms and onions from the pan.

Create a Roux: Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the pan. Once the butter is melted, gradually whisk in the flour to create a thick paste. Slowly add the beef broth and heavy cream to the roux, continually whisking as you add.

Make the Gravy: Once the gravy is smooth and combined, whisk in the Worcestershire sauce and ground mustard. Then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the Mushrooms, Onions, and Chicken: Stir in the onions and mushrooms, then add the chicken back to the pan. Coat the chicken in the sauce and serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.

Tips and Pairing Ideas

This smothered chicken recipe is hard to get wrong. However, I do have a couple of suggestions to make the process even easier for you.

Chicken cutlets: You can buy chicken cutlets at the store and use a meat tenderizer to pound them thinner before breading them. The cutlets should be just about ½ – ¾ inches thick, which will help the breading stay on.

Broth options: I love using beef broth for this recipe, it adds a bit more punch of flavor and depth. However, you can substitute chicken broth. Both options work well, so choose the one that best suits your taste.

Pairing ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with Mashed Potatoes, rice, or Classic Biscuits.

How to Store Smothered Chicken

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. 

Enjoy same day: The breading will become soggy after storage, so I suggest enjoying this dish on the same day.

More Simple and Delicious Chicken Meal Ideas

If you are looking for more flavorful chicken dinner ideas I’ve got you covered. These meals are packed with flavor and come together quickly and easily!

Marry Me Chicken (Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken)

35 mins

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Chicken

25 mins

Cashew Chicken (Way Better than Takeout!)

30 mins

One-Pan Lemon Chicken Orzo

45 mins

Print

Smothered Chicken

Smothered chicken is a flavorful comfort food full of rich, creamy gravy, tender chicken cutlets, and savory mushrooms. Perfect on its own or paired with mashed potatoes, rice or pasta, you’re family will definitely want this on the weekly meal plan.
Prep Time 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes minutes
Total Time 50 minutes minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 827kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, boneless skinless1 egg½ cup heavy whipping cream½ cup all-purpose flour½ cup breadcrumbs2 teaspoons garlic powder1 teaspoon oregano1 teaspoon onion powder1 teaspoon salt½ teaspoon pepper3 tablespoons olive oil1 small yellow onion, diced8 ounces sliced mushrooms

Gravy

¼ cup butter¼ cup all-purpose flour2 cups beef broth1 cup heavy whipping cream1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce1 teaspoon ground mustardsalt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Chicken

Prepare the chicken by slicing the breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner cuts of chicken.
Whisk together the egg and heavy whipping cream in a bowl until well combined.
Combine the flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
Next, working with one cutlet at a time, coat the chicken in the egg mixture, and then allow any excess liquid to drip off before moving on to the next step.
Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly on all sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Gravy

Remove any burnt bits from the bottom of the pan, then add the onion and mushrooms to the pan. Saute until the onions are translucent and tender. Remove the mushrooms and onions from the pan and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the pan. Once the butter is melted, gradually whisk in the flour to create a thick paste. Slowly add the beef broth and heavy cream to the roux, continually whisking as you add.
Once the gravy is smooth and combined, whisk in the Worcestershire sauce and ground mustard then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stir in the onions and mushrooms then add the chicken back to the pan. Coat the chicken in the sauce and serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 827kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 60g | Saturated Fat: 31g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 245mg | Sodium: 1450mg | Potassium: 929mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1774IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 136mg | Iron: 4mg

Biscoff Cookies

Satisfy your sweet tooth with loaded Biscoff Cookies. They are soft and chewy and infused with the flavor of Biscoff cookies and cookie butter. These are easy to whip up and will be a hit for any occasion!

The cinnamon-spiced, caramel flavor of Biscoff cookies is irresistible in a variety of desserts! If you love it too, try our soft, rich Biscoff Cheesecake, easy Biscoff Oatmeal Bars and Pumpkin Chiffon Pie with Biscoff Crust.

Reasons You Will Love This Recipe

Delicious flavor: With the combination of cinnamon-spiced Biscoff cookies with white chocolate and cookie butter in a soft and chewy cookie, one bite and you’ll be hooked!

Wonderful texture: Chunks of Biscoff cookie, white chocolate, and biscoff cookie butter drizzled over the top of homemade cookies are incredible. You can’t eat just one!

Great for any occasion: This recipe is easy enough to make for a weeknight treat for the family, yet impressive enough for your holiday cookie tray!

Biscoff Cookies Recipe

Biscoff cookies start with your basic cookie ingredients with cookie butter mixed into the dough. Pieces of Biscoff cookies (also called speculoos cookies) and white chocolate are folded into the batter. Drizzle them with more cookie butter before baking for the perfect finishing touch.

You will be absolutely obsessed with how delicious these taste! They have the perfect flavor and texture—soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the edges. Then you get bites of cinnamon-spiced cookie pieces and melty white chocolate—pure cookie perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Biscoff Cookies

This Biscoff cookie recipe uses classic baking ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! You just might need to purchase some Biscoff cookies and cookie butter, but it’s so worth it! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the exact measurements.

Unsalted Butter: Butter provides richness and a buttery flavor.

Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a warm caramel flavor adding sweetness and creating a chewy texture in the cookies.

Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.

Eggs: Helps with binding ingredients and provides structure.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweet flavor.

Cookie Butter: If you have the time, try this homemade cookie butter recipe. It’s even better than Trader Joe’s version!

Flour: I recommend all-purpose flour for a perfectly soft and tender texture.

Cornstarch: I love adding cornstarch to my cookie dough because it makes the cookies soft and thick. 

Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Helps baked goods rise and makes them light and soft.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings all the flavors together.

White Chocolate: The taste of white chocolate with Biscoff cookies is a match made in heaven!

Biscoff Cookies: These crunchy biscuits have a warm spiced caramel flavor. We crunch them up and fold them into the dough for major deliciousness.

How to Make Biscoff Cookie Butter Cookies

We love baking unique cookie recipes at our house! If you’re looking for a cookie that is truly special, give these Biscoff cookies a try! Here’s how easy they are to make:

Prep: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.

Beat Butter and Sugars: Add the butter and both sugars to the bowl of a stand mixer and beat on high speed with the paddle attachment for 3-4 minutes, until light and fluffy.

Combine Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla and mix on medium speed until combined.

Add Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to a medium bowl and whisk until combined. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and mix until just combined.

Stir in Mix-ins: Fold in the white chocolate chips and cookie butter cookie pieces by hand. Cover the bowl and chill for 30 minutes.

Make Cookie Dough Balls: Scoop the chilled dough with a medium cookie scoop onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between them. Drizzle melted cookie butter over the top of each scoop of cookie dough.

Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges begin to set and turn golden brown. The centers of the cookies will look underbaked, but they will continue to bake as they cool.

Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 3-4 minutes before moving them to a cooling rack to finish cooling.

Cream butter and sugar, then add the eggs and vanilla.

Mix in the cookie butter.

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.

Add the white chocolate and crushed cookies.

Mix in until evenly distributed.

Scoop dough and drizzle additional cookie butter on top. Bake.

Tips for Getting the Perfect Cookie Butter Cookies

Here are a few recommendations that will make these Biscoff cookies bake up perfectly every time!

Use Room-Temperature Ingredients! This helps the ingredients blend fully and easily.

More Biscoff Flavor: For more Biscoff flavor, press larger chunks of broken cookies into the scooped dough before baking.

Make Ahead: The longer the dough sits, the softer the Biscoff crumbs inside them will become. This is helpful if you want really big chunks of cookies inside, as it makes it easier to scoop and break through them. You can prepare the cookie dough a few days in advance and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake the cookies. 

White Chocolate: I love melty white chocolate, but white chocolate chips never seem to melt well for me. For this recipe, I chopped up a bar of quality white chocolate instead of white chocolate chips, which made the final result even better.

Storing Leftovers

Room Temperature: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. 

Freezing Baked Cookies: Baked cookies can be stored in an airtight freezer container or bag and frozen for up to 3 months. Leave them at room temperature for an hour or so to thaw, or heat the cookies one at a time in the microwave in 15-second intervals until warmed through. 

Freezing the Dough: The unbaked cookie dough can be scooped into balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and placed in the freezer for 2-3 hours. Once the cookie dough balls are fully frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Bake directly from frozen at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still gooey.

More Delicious Cookie Recipes

You can’t get much better than a warm, homemade cookie! Here are a few more tried and true cookie recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. They’re all delicious! You can find my full list of cookie recipes here!

Butterscotch Cookies

25 mins

Ranger Cookies

57 mins

Icebox Cookies

4 hrs 27 mins

Monster Cookies

26 mins

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Biscoff Cookies

Satisfy your sweet tooth with loaded Biscoff Cookies. They are soft and chewy and infused with the flavor of Biscoff cookies and cookie butter. These are easy to whip up and will be a hit for any occasion!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword biscoff dessert, christmas cookies, Cookie butter cookies, Drop cookies, holiday cookies
Prep Time 20 minutes minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes minutes
chill time 30 minutes minutes
Total Time 1 hour hour
Servings 30 cookies
Calories 221kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter1 cup brown sugar, packed½ cup granulated sugar2 large eggs, room temperature2 teaspoons vanilla extract½ cup cookie butter, additional for drizzling over the top2 ¾ cup all-purpose flour1 tablespoon cornstarch1 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon baking powder1 teaspoon salt1 ⅔ cup white chocolate chips, or chopped white chocolate½ cup roughly crushed Biscoff cookies

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
Add the butter and both sugars to a large mixing bowl and beat on high speed with the paddle attachment of a stand mixer or a hand mixer for 3-4 minutes, until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs and vanilla and mix until combined.
Add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to a medium bowl and whisk until combined. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and mix until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and cookie pieces by hand until evenly distributed. Cover the bowl and chill for 30 minutes.
Scoop the chilled dough with a medium cookie scoop (about 3 tablespoons of dough) onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between them. Melt some cookie butter in the microwave in 10-second intervals, until it’s runny. Drizzle a generous amount over the top of each scoop of cookie dough.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges begin to set and turn golden brown. The centers of the cookies will look underbaked, but they will continue to bake as they cool.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 3-4 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to finish cooling.

Nutrition

Calories: 221kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 29mg | Sodium: 173mg | Potassium: 77mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 208IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 39mg | Iron: 1mg

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a flavorful, comforting meal that’s so easy to make. Seasoned ground beef, corn, pinto beans, and Rotel tomatoes are layered with shredded cheddar cheese and a cornbread topping for a winning dinner!

My family loves a good hearty casserole, and I love making them because they are so easy to throw together. If you’re looking for other recipes to try, you’re sure to love this crowd-pleasing John Wayne Casserole, this family-favorite Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole, and this delicious Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

Family-Friendly: If you’re looking for a comforting meal that you know your family will be excited to eat, this cornbread casserole is it!

So tasty: The combination of bold spices with Mexican-style ingredients, plenty of cheese, and the sweet, moist cornbread topping will be an absolute party in your mouth!

Easy: Only about 15 minutes of prep time is needed, and with cooking time included, you’ll have this on the dinner table in less than an hour.

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

This casserole has become a family favorite because it’s loaded with all the traditional Tex-Mex flavors and that wonderful texture everyone loves. The combination of seasoned beef, tasty add-ins, and plenty of cheese is just too irresistible to pass up. Plus, the best part is that it’s super easy to throw together, which is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but quick.

It’s definitely hearty enough to serve on its own, but it’s also great served with sides like Mexican rice, a fresh, crisp salad, or refried beans. And don’t forget the toppings! We love to top it with sour cream, salsa, sliced avocado or guacamole, and fresh cilantro.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cowboy cornbread casserole recipe is super filling and makes six servings, which is probably enough to feed your whole family! See the recipe card below for exact measurements.

Beef Filling

Beef: I like to use lean ground beef or ground turkey for the filling.

Onion: Adds flavor and texture.

Salt and Pepper: Enhances all of the flavors.

Garlic Powder: For a hint of garlic taste.

Chili Powder: Adds Mexican flavor without too much heat.

Cumin: Adds a touch of earthiness and warmth to the flavor profile.

Corn: Gives the meat mixture plenty of texture and a bit of sweetness.

Rotel tomatoes: If you’re serving someone who might be sensitive to spice, be sure to grab the can that says “mild.”

Chili beans: Add these in undrained for delicious sauciness.

Cheese: Provides wonderful cheesiness. Use shredded Colby-Jack cheese or another favorite variety.

Cornbread

Cornbread: I like to use two boxes of Jiffy cornbread mix, which is really convenient to mix up.

Creamed Corn: Adds a creamy richness to the cornbread.

Sour Cream: I love adding sour cream to cornbread batter for added moisture.

Let’s Make Cornbread Cowboy Casserole!

With just one bite of this easy casserole recipe, you’ll be hooked! In fact, it’s definitely one of those dinners you’ll find yourself craving on repeat. So, here’s how it all comes together:

Beef Filling

Prep: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spay a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Brown the Beef: Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Add the diced onion and cook until tender. 

Combine: Add the corn, pinto beans, Rotel tomatoes, salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder to the ground beef mixture. Stir to combine.

Layer in Pan with Cheese: Pour the beef mixture into the prepared pan then top with shredded cheese.

Cornbread

Make the Cornbread Batter: Combine the corn muffin mix, creamed corn, milk, and sour cream in a medium bowl and mix until you have a thick batter. 

Add the Cornbread Topping and Bake: Spoon the mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.

Baking Tip

If the top of the cornbread is getting too dark then cover the casserole with aluminum foil. This allows the cornbread mixture to continue to cook but prevents the top from browning too fast!

Cowboy Casserole Variations

One of the best things about this cowboy cornbread casserole is that you can switch things up to suit your taste. You can easily change out the ingredients to make this something your family will gladly devour!

Ground Beef: I prefer lean ground beef, but ground turkey or chicken works well too.

Beans: You can use any beans you prefer. Kidney, pinto, or black beans are great options. Be sure to drain and rinse the beans.

Seasonings: Swap out the seasonings for a packet of taco seasoning.

Corn:  Frozen or fresh corn can be used with great results.

Rotel Tomatoes: If you don’t have Rotel, use canned diced tomatoes and a small can of diced green chilies. You can also use one cup of salsa.

Add-in Ideas: The filling is so versatile. You can add jalapeños, bell peppers, green onions, olives, or any other add-ins you like.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover cowboy cornbread casserole, store it for an easy lunch the next day! This tastes even better the next day!

In the Refrigerator: Once your pie has cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

In the Freezer: Baked casseroles freeze well if properly wrapped and stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy them after freezing, let them defrost overnight in the fridge.

To Reheat: To reheat your refrigerated casserole, place individual servings in the microwave on high for 1 minute or until heated through. To reheat from frozen, thaw it completely in your refrigerator overnight. Then, microwave individual servings or bake the entire dish at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes.

More Casserole Recipes

If you love casseroles as much as I do, here are a few more satisfying and incredibly tasty dishes that your family will gobble up! They come together easily with simple ingredients. For more dinner inspiration, find my full list of casseroles here!

Cowboy Breakfast Casserole

1 hr 15 mins

Big Mac Casserole

40 mins

Taco Casserole

30 mins

Everything Bagel Casserole

1 hr 45 mins

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Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a flavorful, comforting meal that’s so easy to make. Seasoned ground beef, corn, pinto beans, and Rotel tomatoes are layered with shredded cheddar cheese and a cornbread topping for a winning dinner!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword cowboy cornbread casserole, easy, one pan
Prep Time 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes minutes
Total Time 50 minutes minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 718kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

Beef Filling

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef, or ground turkey½ cup onion, diced1 teaspoon salt½ teaspoon black pepper½ teaspoon garlic powder2 teaspoons chili powder2 teaspoons cumin15 ounces corn, drained10 ounces Rotel tomatoes15 ounces chili beans, undrained2 cups Colby-Jack cheese, shredded

Cornbread

2-8.5 ounce boxes Jiffy corn muffin mix15 ounces creamed corn, canned½ cup sour cream

Instructions

Beef Filling

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spay a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray.
Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Add the diced onion and cook until tender.
Add the corn, pinto beans, Rotel tomatoes, salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
Pour the beef mixture into the prepared pan, then top it with shredded cheese.

Cornbread

Combine the corn muffin mix, creamed corn, milk, and sour cream in a medium bowl and mix until you have a thick batter.
Spoon the mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.

Nutrition

Calories: 718kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 46g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 109mg | Sodium: 1.119mg | Potassium: 1.247mg | Fiber: 13g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 1.258IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 360mg | Iron: 7mg

Spaghetti alla Nerano (Stanley Tucci Zucchini Pasta)

Spaghetti alla Nerano is an unforgettable pasta dish packed with flavor! It has a rich and creamy zucchini sauce infused with garlic, fresh basil, and melted cheese.

Zucchini is the star of so many delicious recipes! Try my fried zucchini, this one pan chicken and zucchini, or this easy skillet dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Pasta

Big on Flavor: The flavor profiles of this dish are simple yet incredible! You won’t believe how much flavor it has. The zucchini and basil really adds depth to the pasta and creates an unforgettable recipe.

Unique Show Stopper: This recipe is so unique! From the way it’s prepared, to the flavors it creates. The secret is in the fried zucchini and I can’t wait for you to try it!

What is Spaghetti alla Nerano?

Spaghetti alla Nerano was created in the small village of Nerano, Italy. It’s also known as, “Stanley Tucci Zucchini Pasta”, after the famous actor discovered his love for this pasta. I LOVE his work, and I LOVE his passion, so I knew I had to recreate this pasta dish at home. And let me tell you, he was right! It’s hard to describe the incredible flavors in this pasta recipe. The fried zucchini infused with fresh basil sets the stage for the creamy zucchini sauce. It’s rich and decandent and finished off with the most incredible pairing of cheeses. I highly recommend the search for the Provolone del Monaco cheese, it’s takes this pasta to the next level!

I love cooking and baking with zucchini because it takes on the flavors within each recipe! You have to try my cheesy zucchini rice, this bread, or our favorite zucchini bars with brown butter frosting! You’ll love them all!

Ingredients Needed

You’ll love the simple ingredients in this Stanley Tucci pasta recipe! Most items you probably already have in your fridge or pantry. It’s a perfect summertime pasta if you’re lucky to have zucchinin in your garden. Scroll down to the recipe card for exact measurements.

Sunflower Oil: Oil for frying the zucchini slices.

ZucchiniYou’ll need about 8 cups or 6 medium zucchini.

Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds incredible flavor because it infuses into the zucchini.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Extra virgin is a must in this recipe!

Unsalted Butter: I like to use unsalted to control the salt flavor in this pasta.

Garlic: Fresh is very important in this recipe.

Spaghetti Noodles: Spaghetti noodles are the perfect noodle for this pasta.

Pasta Water: Reserve the pasta water after cooking the spaghetti noodles.

Provolone del Monaco and Parmesan Cheese: The combination of these melty cheeses take this recipe to the next level!

Salt and PepperSeason to your own liking!

How to Make Spaghetti alla Nerano

This Stanley Tucci pasta has a few extra steps, but it is so worth it! My step-by-step instructions and pictures will help you along the way. I like to prepare the zucchini the day before because then the pasta will come together quickly!

Fry the Zucchini Slices: Heat the sunflower oil in a shallow pan and fry the sliced zucchini until lightly golden brown.

Refrigerate the Zucchini and Basil Leaves: Remove the fried zucchini from the oil with a spider or large slotted spoon and transfer to a baking sheet lined with paper towels and a few basil leaves. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

Heat the Oil, Butter, and Garlic/ Cook the Pasta: Heat the olive oil, butter, and garlic cloves after smashing them open with the flat side of a knife, and a sprig of basil over medium heat until fragrant. Meanwhile, cook and drain the spaghetti according to the package, reserving 2 cups of pasta water for later.

Add the Zucchini to the Skillet: Remove the garlic and basil before adding the zucchini to the pan.

Cook and Mash the Zucchini: Cook over medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes, mashing the zucchini up as it cooks.

Add the Pasta and 1 Cup Reserved Pasta Water: Add the pasta and 1 cup of pasta water to the pan. Stir until it fully coats the zucchini.

Stir in Cheeses and Remaining Pasta Water: Add the provolone and parmesan cheese then stir until they melt. Stir in as much of the remaining pasta water as needed until the sauce is smooth and creamy then add salt and pepper to taste.

Spaghetti alla Nerano Tips

I have lots of tips to ensure your pasta turns out perfectly!

Oil: You don’t have to use sunflower oil to fry the zucchini. You can use oil with a high smoke point and neutral flavor, such as canola, vegetable, grape seed, or peanut oil. 

Zucchini: Do I need 8 cups of zucchini? For the full impact of flavor, use 2 cups of zucchini per serving for this recipe. It seems like a lot, but it cooks down quite a bit. All that zucchini packs in the flavor for this delicious Spaghetti alla Nerano!

Don’t Use Frozen Zucchini: DO NOT use frozen zucchini for this recipe. Defrosted zucchini is too wet to be fried and that’s an essential part of this recipe.

Cheese Substitutions: If you can find it, use Provolone del Monaco! It is the traditional provolone used in spaghetti alla Nerano, but it is not always easy to find. If you can’t find provolone del Monaco then use caciocavallo cheese, this is a great substitute. You can also use pecorino romano cheese OR 8 ounces of high-quality mild provolone. 

Avoid Pre-Shredded Cheese: Avoid using pre-shredded cheese. It is coated with starch to keep it from sticking together. This prevents it from melting nicely in sauces. 

Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: Pasta water has leftover starch from the cooked pasta that acts as a thickener for the sauce. It also helps the cheese emulsify into the sauce and prevent it from splitting.

Puree the Sauce: If you’d like a completely smooth sauce, the zucchini can be pureed in a blender or food processor after it cooks in olive oil and butter. Add the puree back to the pan and add the pasta. Continue as directed.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Here are my tips for storing and reheating leftover pasta! I also have tips for preparing the fried zucchini in advance to make it easier!

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

To Reheat: I like to save a cup or so of extra pasta water so I can add a splash or two when reheating it. The starchy pasta water helps to thin out the sauce, but not separate it. Reheat in 20-30 second increments in the microwave, stirring between each increment. Add more pasta water a teaspoon or two at a time as needed. 

Prepare Zucchini in Advance: You can prep the zucchini and fry it up to 3 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container until you are ready to finish preparing the pasta.

Popular Zucchini Recipes to Love

Spaghetti alla Nerano (Stanley Tucci Zucchini Pasta)

1 hr

Zucchini Roll-Ups

55 mins

Cream Cheese Swirled Banana Zucchini Bread

1 hr 5 mins

Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Vegetable Sheet Pan

20 mins

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Spaghetti alla Nerano (Stanley Tucci Zucchini Pasta)

Spaghetti alla Nerano is an unforgettable pasta dish packed with flavor! It has a rich and creamy zucchini sauce infused with garlic, fresh basil, and melted cheese.
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian, Italian American
Keyword Fried Zucchini Spaghetti, Garden Vegetable Recipe, Spaghetti alla Nerano, Stanley Tucci Spaghetti Pasta, Zucchini Pasta, Zucchini Spaghetti
Prep Time 40 minutes minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes minutes
Total Time 1 hour hour
Servings 4 servings
Calories 874kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

4-6 cups sunflower oil, for frying8 cups zucchini, about 6 medium zucchinifresh basil leaves2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil2 tablespoons unsalted butter2 cloves garlic16 ounces spaghetti noodles, uncooked2 cups pasta water, reserved after cooking the spaghetti8 ounces provolone del Monaco, shredded1 cup parmesan, gratedsalt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Add the sunflower oil to a large saucepan or Dutch oven and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Meanwhile, slice the zucchinis into ⅛-inch thick medallions. Line a large baking sheet with several paper towels, spread a small handful of fresh basil leaves on the paper towels, and set aside.
When the oil reaches frying temperature, fry the zucchini for about 2 minutes, until they are lightly golden and beginning to crisp up, but not fried into chips. It’s best to do this in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan and cause the oil temperature to drop too low.
Remove the fried zucchini from the oil with a spider or large slotted spoon and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Once all the zucchini has been fried and cooled to room temperature, cover the pan and refrigerate it overnight, or for at least 3 hours.
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Before you strain the pasta, reserve 2 cups of the pasta water for later. Strain the noodles and set aside.
Heat a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil, butter, and garlic cloves after smashing them open with the flat side of a knife, and a sprig of basil. Once the butter is melted and bubbling and the garlic is fragrant, remove the garlic and basil from the pan and add the zucchini.
Cook the zucchini over medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to mash them up as much as you would like. Add a few splashes of the pasta water to help keep it moistened. If you want the zucchini completely mashed, you can cook it for a few minutes more to allow it to soften further and break down.
Add the pasta and 1 cup of pasta water to the pan and stir until it is fully coated in the zucchini. Add the provolone and parmesan cheese and stir until they are melted. Stir in as much of the remaining pasta water needed until the sauce is smooth and creamy, then add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 874kcal | Carbohydrates: 95g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 71mg | Sodium: 841mg | Potassium: 1009mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 1365IU | Vitamin C: 45mg | Calcium: 793mg | Iron: 3mg

Weekly Meal Plan #15

This weekly meal plan has some classics with a twist that you are going to love! It gives you a chance to use up all of your garden veggies, and with so many different variations, these recipes are for everyone, even your picky eaters!

Having a weekly meal plan with a shopping list helps me save so much time! You can check out all of my weekly meal plans here.

What’s for Dinner?

If you have picky eaters, this week is for you! All of these recipes allow you to add or remove veggies and replace them with ones that your family will eat! Kabobs are the best because they are fully customizable! In fact, one of my kids only eats them with all the chicken on them, and that works for us!

Monday: Chicken and Garden Vegetable Skillet

Tuesday: Beefaroni

Wednesday: Greek Chicken Kabobs

Thursday: Slow Cooker Enchilada Soup

Friday: Sweet and Sour Pork

How Many Does it Feed?

This free weekly meal plan is just what you need to get your week started. It provides five meals that will feed 4-6 (depending on if you are feeding adults or kids), AND it includes a shopping list! With fresh new ideas and easy-to-make recipes, having a weekly menu plan will be a lifesaver.

30-Minute Chicken and Garden Vegetable Skillet

Use up all those garden veggies in this delicious chicken and garden vegetable skillet. Your family will love this healthy 30-minute skillet dinner full of seasoned chicken, sauteed vegetables, and a cheesy breadcrumb topping.

View Recipe

Quick and Easy Beefaroni

5 from 1 vote
Craving cheesy, saucy comfort food that’s perfect for a weeknight meal? This hearty beefaroni is the way to go. Each macaroni noodle traps the cheesy, meaty, garlicky sauce inside, so every bite has incredible flavor.

View Recipe

Greek Chicken Kabobs

Tender Greek-flavored chicken is grilled together on a skewer with fresh, crisp vegetables. The Mediterranean marinade perfectly seasons these Greek chicken kabobs and transports your tastebuds to the streets of Greece.

View Recipe

Slow Cooker Enchilada Soup

Slow Cooker Enchilada Soup.. Loaded with tons of Mexican flavor and cooked low and slow for 8 hours!

View Recipe

Sweet and Sour Pork

5 from 13 votes
This sensational Sweet and Sour Pork is everything you want in take out, only better!  You are going to love the succulent pork combined with the most incredible sauce!

View Recipe

Why Should I Meal Plan? 

If you haven’t tried planning your meals ahead of time, this is going to be a game-changer for you! Here’s why I swear by meal planning:

Time Saver: No more 4:00 PM panic about dinner. With a menu plan, you know exactly what’s on the menu, what you need, and how long it takes to cook.

Money Saver: Prepare to be amazed – meal planning works wonders for your wallet. When you organize your shopping list for the week, then you’ll easily spot opportunities to buy in bulk and creatively repurpose leftovers for future meals. It’s a clever approach that keeps more money in your pocket.

Bye-Bye Takeout: When meals are planned and groceries are stocked, you’re less likely to hit the drive-thru. Because you are cooking at home, that means more savings and healthier eating. Win-win!

Side Dishes for Dinner

Croissant Bread

4 hrs

How to Boil Corn on the Cob

15 mins

Italian Corn Salad

15 mins

Raspberry Fluff Salad

5 mins

My weekly meal plans always include a printable shopping list that is measured out and ready to go. It makes things so easy!

Storing Leftovers for Meal Planning

I only meal plan Monday-Friday because we sometimes have plans over the weekend or I have leftovers that we can have to finish off the week! If you do have leftovers, make sure to store them properly in an airtight container in your fridge.

Chocolate Whipped Cream

Fluffy Chocolate Whipped Cream is a wonderful combination of chocolate and fresh whipped cream. It’s the perfect topping for fruit, waffles, pie, cupcakes, and so much more!

Homemade whipped cream is one of my favorite ways to really elevate a dessert recipe. Here are a few more must-make recipes: stabilized whipped creammarshmallow whipped cream, and my classic whipped cream recipe!

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple: Skip the Cool Whip. Homemade whipped cream is so much better, and it only takes minutes to make.

Tastes amazing! Every dollop has the most delicious chocolate flavor, and the texture is pillowy and soft.

Versatile: There are so many fun and festive ways to use chocolate whipped cream! Try it as a dip with fresh berries or piled on your favorite cupcakes or pancakes!

Chocolate Whipped Cream

I cannot stop eating this easy chocolate whipped cream! It’s absolutely irresistible, with the best chocolate flavor and a silky, smooth, and fluffy consistency!

Believe me, once you try this deliciousness, you’ll want to add it to all of your sweet treats! Start by spreading it over cakes and pies. Top your hot chocolate with it for extra chocolate creaminess! Dip your strawberries in it for a twist on chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This perfectly fluffy chocolate whipped cream recipe only needs three ingredients. Check out the recipe card below for measurements so you can make a batch of your own—you won’t regret it!

Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream while dissolving instantly to create a smooth and creamy consistency.

Cocoa Powder: This is what gives the whipped cream a rich chocolate taste.

Heavy Whipping Cream: The base ingredient! Be sure it’s chilled for the best results!

How to Make Chocolate Whipped Cream

Follow these simple step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have delicious whipped cream that you’ll want to eat straight from the bowl. Here’s how easy it is to create:

Mix Dry Ingredients: First, whisk the powdered sugar with the cocoa powder in a small bowl.

Combine: Next, add the cream and dry ingredients to a large mixing bowl.

Beat: Lastly, beat the ingredients in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment or using a hand mixer. Beat until the cream reaches medium-stiff peaks.

Tips and Variations

Chocolate whipped cream is super quick & easy to make at home. Follow my tips and tricks below to have the best success! You’ll never want to buy store-bought whipped cream again!

Smooth Whipped Cream: If your powdered sugar or cocoa powder is lumpy, sift them together instead of just whisking them together. This will prevent any powdery lumps in your final chocolate whipped cream!

Use a Cold Bowl and Whisk: About 20-30 minutes before place your bowl (metal is best) and whisk in the freezer. Heavy cream whips up much quicker if it is kept cold, so freezing the bowl and the whisk keeps the cream cold as it whips and speeds up the process.

Dark Chocolate: For an even darker chocolate flavor, swap out the cocoa powder 1:1 for dark cocoa powder!

Medium-Stiff Peaks: You’ll know when your cream has reached medium-stiff peaks when you lift the whisk out and turn it upright, and most of the cream holds its shape except the very tip of the peak. The tip will curl over but not completely.

Storing Leftover Whipped Cream

Chocolate whipped cream is best served immediately, but it can be stored in the fridge for a few days or in the freezer for up to three months!

In the Refrigerator: Homemade chocolate whipped cream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but it will start to break down and deflate after a couple of hours at room temperature or about a day in the refrigerator. If this happens, you can add a little more sugar and re-whip the chocolate whipped cream.

In the Freezer: You can pipe swirls of chocolate whipped cream onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and then freeze them for at least 6 hours. Once frozen solid, peel the swirls off the parchment and store in the freezer in a freezer bag or an airtight container for up to 3 months. You can use these frozen swirls to decorate cakes, cupcakes, and pies or drop them into hot chocolate.

Thawing: It will take about 30 minutes at room temperature to thaw.

More Delicious Toppings

Homemade toppings, from frosting to syrup, really take your desserts to the next level! I have lots of tried-and-true recipes that are all simple to make. Here are some of my family’s favorite recipes that I know you are going to love!

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

5 mins

Homemade Blueberry Syrup

15 mins

Streusel Topping

22 mins

Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

45 mins

Print

Chocolate Whipped Cream

Fluffy Chocolate Whipped Cream is a wonderful combination of chocolate with fresh whipped cream! It’s the perfect topping for fruit, waffles, pie, cupcakes and so much more!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword chocolate whipped cream, chocolate whipped cream from scratch, Homemade chocolate whipped cream
Prep Time 6 minutes minutes
Total Time 6 minutes minutes
Servings 3 cups
Calories 473kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Equipment

Stand mixer or hand mixer, with whisk attachment

Ingredients

Instructions

Whisk the powdered sugar with the cocoa powder in a small bowl.
Add the cream and dry ingredients to a large mixing bowl and beat with a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment or a hand mixer until the cream reaches medium-stiff peaks.
The whipped cream is best used immediately but will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 hours before it will start to deflate.

Nutrition

Calories: 473kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 134mg | Sodium: 34mg | Potassium: 222mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 1749IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 88mg | Iron: 1mg

Zucchini Roll-Ups

Zucchini Roll-Ups are a delicious, unique meal that the whole family will enjoy. Thin slices of zucchini are rolled around a tasty sausage ricotta mixture and layered over marinara before being topped with cheese and baked to bubbly perfection!

Do you have a bounty of zucchini to use from your garden? If so, you must try these other wonderful zucchini recipes! Start with easy Grilled Zucchini, then try Zucchini Pizza, and definitely don’t miss out on this light and fluffy Chocolate Zucchini Cake!

Reasons You Will Love This Recipe

Light and Low Carb: Zucchini rolls are a lighter twist on lasagna roll-ups, yet they’re still really satisfying!

So Delicious: This dish is fun and incredibly flavorful. It also has so many great textures, with the joining of savory Italian sausage with creamy ricotta, zesty marinara, and mildly flavored thin ribbons of zucchini.

A Great Use of Zucchini: This recipe uses four whole zucchini, so if your garden is blowing up, this is the recipe for you! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies!

What are Zucchini Roll-Ups?

Zucchini roll-ups have all of the flavors of a classic lasagna, but use zucchini to wrap up all of the deliciousness for an amazing dinner! I love how using zucchini keeps this lasagna inspired recipe light and lower in carbs and calories. Plus, it’s much more rich in nutrients, and the rolls are in perfect servings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Zucchini roll-ups might look fancy, but they’re actually so easy to make! They also don’t require very many ingredients. Follow the recipe card below for exact amounts.

Zucchini: Sliced length-wise to create the rolls.

Olive Oil: For sautéing the meat, onion and garlic.

Yellow Onion: Sautéed to add depth of flavor to the dish.

Italian Sausage: I like using Italian sausage instead of ground beef because it adds so much zest and flavor to the meal.

Garlic: Infuses the sausage with garlic flavor.

Ricotta Cheese: Makes this taste just like classic lasagna with the creamy filling.

Egg: The egg helps to bind the ricotta mixture.

Parmesan Cheese: Elevates the rolls with a nutty, salty taste.

Seasoning: This recipe uses Italian Seasoning and salt and pepper for major flavor.

Marinara Sauce: You can use store bought or try my super tasty homemade marinara sauce.

Mozzarella Cheese: If you have the time, I recommend freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.

How to Make Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups

There are quite a few important steps to follow when making zucchini roll-ups. Don’t worry, it’s actually so easy! I will walk you through all of the steps. The pictures really help, too!

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.

Clean the zucchini, cut the ends off, and slice it lengthwise into ⅛ 18-inch-thick ribbons. If you have a mandoline, using it is easiest. Place the ribbons in a bowl of water while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Saute the onion until it’s clear. Add the sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Add the garlic and saute for another minute. Remove from heat.

Whisk the ricotta cheese, egg, ½ cup of parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Once the sausage mix has cooled, add it to the ricotta mixture and mix well to combine. In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese.

Pour the marinara sauce into the 9×13 baking dish. Dry the zucchini and lay one out in front of you. Spread about a tablespoon of the sausage ricotta filling halfway up the zucchini ribbon.

Roll the ribbon from the filled side to the empty side and place it in the sauce. Continue with the remaining zucchini and filling.

Once the pan is filled, top all the zucchini rolls with the mozzarella cheese mixture. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 5 minutes or until the cheese browns on top.

Remove the zucchini rolls ups from the oven, let cool at room temperature for at least 5 minutes, and serve!

Tips and Variations for Zucchini Roll-Ups

Here are a few tips and some variation ideas to make the perfect dinner!

Zucchini Slices: Be sure the zucchini is sliced into very thin ribbons that are about ⅛-inch thick. Using a mandoline slicer makes this really easy.

Marinara Sauce: I like to use my homemade Marinara Sauce when I’m feeling ambitious, but you can use store bought. 

For the Sauce, if you prefer, you could try using a pesto sauce or alfredo in place of the marinara.

Add Spice: If you like spicy try using hot Italian sausage.

Cover with Foil: For the first 20 minutes of baking, cover the dish with aluminum foil. This way, the top doesn’t brown too quickly.

Sprinkle on Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or fresh basil adds the perfect finishing pop of color to your zucchini rolls!

How to Store Leftover Zucchini Lasagna Rolls

This dish is best served fresh. If you do have leftovers, here is how you store them so you can enjoy them the next day.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. 

Do Not Freeze: I don’t recommend freezing this dish, the zucchini will become mushy after freezing and reheating.

More Delicious Zucchini Recipes

I love how versatile zucchini is! Not only is it a great side dish, like this cheesy zucchini gratin, but it’s also great for baking into desserts and bread. You can also use it as a main course, like these zucchini rolls! Try these other favorite recipes next, and be sure to check out all of our zucchini recipes!

Cream Cheese Swirled Banana Zucchini Bread

1 hr 5 mins

Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini

15 mins

Cheesy Zucchini Quiche

1 hr

Cheesy Zucchini Rice

25 mins

Print

Zucchini Roll-Ups

Zucchini Roll-Ups are a delicious, unique meal that the whole family will enjoy. Thin slices of zucchini are rolled around a tasty sausage ricotta mixture and layered over marinara before being topped with cheese and baked to bubbly perfection!
Course Dinner
Keyword low carb, zucchini roll ups
Prep Time 30 minutes minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes minutes
Total Time 55 minutes minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 534kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

4 large zucchini1 tablespoon olive oil½ yellow onion, minced1 pound Italian sausage1 clove garlic, minced1 cup ricotta cheese1 large egg1 cup parmesan cheese, divided1 tablespoon Italian Seasoningsalt and pepper to taste2 cups marinara Sauce1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Clean the zucchini, cut the ends off, and slice them lengthwise into ⅛ inch thick ribbons. Using a mandoline is easiest if you have one. Place the ribbons in a bowl of water while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Saute the onion until it’s translucent. Add the sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Add the garlic and saute for another minute. Remove from heat.
Whisk the ricotta cheese, egg, ½ cup of parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Once the sausage mix has cooled, add it to the ricotta mixture and mix well to combine. In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese.
Pour the marinara sauce into the 9×13-inch baking dish. Dry the zucchini and lay one out in front of you. Spread about a tablespoon of the sausage ricotta filling halfway up the zucchini ribbon.
Roll the ribbon from the filled side to the empty side and place it in the sauce. Continue with the remaining zucchini and filling.
Once the pan is filled, top all the zucchini rolls with the mozzarella cheese mixture. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 5 minutes or until the cheese browns on top.
Remove from the oven, let it cool at room temperature for at least 5 minutes, and serve!

Nutrition

Calories: 534kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 41g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 17g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Cholesterol: 132mg | Sodium: 1.38mg | Potassium: 884mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1.109IU | Vitamin C: 31mg | Calcium: 444mg | Iron: 3mg
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