Air Fryer Loaded Waffle Fries
Layers of crispy waffle fries, crunchy bacon, creamy ranch then topped with melted cheese. All made in the air fryer and minimal cleanup. Air Fryer Loaded Waffle Fries are just what snacking should be, easy and delicious!
I think it’s an official thing by now. We are going on 8 solid months of me being in love with my air fryer. If an inanimate object can be your BFF, my air fryer and I would be attached at the hip. This thing is THE BOMB! What can’t you make in this thing?
Can you make sandwiches in it? Yes! Check out this Roasted Pepper Turkey Sandwich.
Snacks for munching? Yes! Air Fryer Rosemary Cashews is one of my most popular recipes.
What about making an air fryer recipe that is loaded with bacon, ranch and LOTS of cheese? Um, yeah. That’s literally what I’m doing right now.
So we’ve got dinner squared away for Mitten Movie Night so let’s talk about the beer and what we’re watching.
What beer pairs well with air fryer waffle fries loaded with ranch and bacon?
The beer: Oberon from Bell’s Brewery.
We are sadly getting to the end of Oberon season. It feels like yesterday that I was making Smoked Sausage Nachos and pairing them with Larry’s Flamingo Fruit Fight at the beginning of Spring and now here we are, almost to September.
What TV Show pairs well with waffle fries and great Michigan Craft Beer?
Hubby and I have been binging The Boys. Great show and can I add that Elisabeth Shue looks amazing. As someone who is about to slide into the last part of the first part of her 40’s, hats off to you lady.
How to make Air Fryer Loaded Waffle Fries:
Start off by setting the air fryer to 400 degrees. *My air fryer has a ‘french fry’ setting so I set it to that which is 400 degrees. Check your manual for cooking times.
Fry the waffles fries for 15-20 minutes shaking the basket in 5-minute intervals so they don’t stick to the bottom.
Once the waffle fries have cooked in the air fryer to the desired goldenness take the basket of the fryer out.
Layer with the cooked bacon and ranch. See isn’t this a perfect ‘one pan’ snack attack?
Add cheese, then finally the green onions.
Cook in the air fryer for 2-4 minutes.
Serves with an ice cold beer and here you are…..
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings |
servings
|
- 12 ounces bacon cooked and chopped
- 22 ounces golden waffle fries
- 2 stalks green onion chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Ingredients
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- Set the air fryer to 400 degrees.
- Fry the waffles fries for 15-20 minutes shaking the basket in 5-minute intervals so they don't stick to the bottom.
- Once the waffle fries have cooked take the basket of the fryer out.
- Layer with the cooked bacon and ranch.
- Add cheese, then finally the green onions.
- Cook in the air fryer for 2-4 minutes.
Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Want crispy potatoes but you don’t want to deal with lots of oil and a messy stovetop? Making these Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes in the air fryer leaves little mess but that doesn’t mean they aren’t big on flavor.
Is there anything that the air fryer can’t do? I use it to make everything from sandwiches to snacks, so this appliance gets a workout here in my kitchen. So for this Mitten Movie
What beer pairs well with fried potatoes?
The beer: Twilight Summer Ale from Deschutes Brewery.
These potatoes pair perfectly with the citrus notes in this summer ale. This is such an easy-drinking beer so it’s perfect for long summer afternoons.
What should I read while eating air fryer potatoes and drinking a summer ale?
I have been reading like crazy this summer. On Twitter, Stephen King recommended this book and said he could not put it down. Guess what? Neither could I! I read Necessary People by Anna Pitoniak in ONE DAY.
Want more book recommendations follow my Book Reviews stories on IG.
Look how crispy these are! So why wouldn’t I call these Crispy Air Fryer Potato Chips? They sure look like chips. I didn’t call them ‘potato chips’ because I want to keep this recipe open for interpretation.
Can you snack on them like chips? Yes. But they can be so much more. Make these potatoes and add them to make a Cajun Steak & Potato Salad. Skip the tortilla chips for Smoke Sausage Nachos and make a ‘tachos’ meal with them. Use the sauce on these Pesto Fries for a salty and cheesy side dish.
Now that we have down a few ideas of how to use these fried potaotes, let’s make them!
How to make Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes:
First, clean the potatoes. Slice them thinly using a knife or vegetable slicer.
The next step is very important. In a bowl add cool water and place the sliced potatoes into it. Let them sit in the water for 30 minutes.
Why do you want to soak potato slices in water before frying them?
This gets the potato starch from the potatoes and keeps them from getting soggy and sticking together. You want maximum crispiness so make sure to do this step.
After the potatoes have been soaked drain the water then using a paper towel dry off the potatoes.
To the uncooked potatoes add the olive oil and seasonings. Stir to coat the potaotes evenly.
Place the potatoes into the basket of the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 380 degrees and set for 25 minutes. Push ‘start.
Check the potatoes after 10 minutes and using a small spatula, flip the potatoes around. Slide the basket back in then perform the same action every 5 minutes for another 15 minutes.
Remove from the air fryer and serve as desired. And here you are……
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings |
servings
|
- 3 medium russet potatoes cleaned then sliced thinly
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1/8 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp parsley flakes
- 1/4 tsp thyme leaf
Ingredients
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- Clean the potatoes. Slice them thinly using a knife or vegetable slicer.
- In a bowl add cool water and place the sliced potatoes into it. Let them sit in the water for 30 minutes.
- Drain the water then using a paper towel dry off the potatoes.
- To the uncooked potatoes add the olive oil and seasonings. Stir to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Place the potatoes into the basket of the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 380 degrees and set for 25 minutes. Push 'start.
- Check the potatoes after 10 minutes and using a small spatula, flip the potatoes around. Slide the basket back in then perform the same action every 5 minutes for another 15 minutes.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve as desired. Enjoy!
BBQ Chicken & Bacon Sandwich
This BBQ Chicken & Bacon Sandwich recipe has all my favorite things in it!
Sliced chicken piled high with bacon and crunchy homemade coleslaw then drizzled with BBQ sauce.
Full of flavor and so easy to make!
I often profess my love for sandwiches. There are so many sandwich combinations you can make that it would really be hard to tire of them. Summer is also a great time to have sandwich fixings on hand for quick lunches or dinners in between trips to the lake or pool.
“Too few people understand a really good sandwich.”
— James Beard
What craft beer pairs well with BBQ Chicken & Bacon Sandwiches:
The beer: Floridian Hefeweizen from Funky Buddha.
I fell in LOVE with this one while we were down in Florida on vacation. It’s a light drinkable beer that’s full of citrus notes and is similar to the blonde styles that I love so much.
What should I watch on TV while eating a sandwich?
Of course, this Mitten Movie Night HAS to be all about binging Stranger Things. While I didn’t make an Indiana Themed menu as I did for Season One, this chicken sandwich is tasty no matter where you live.
How to make BBQ Chicken & Bacon Sandwiches:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
This recipe uses already cooked chicken breasts. Cooking up a few in the crock-pot then shredding is a quick meal must!
On a sheet pan split 6 brioche hamburger buns in half. Butter the tops and place face down on one half of the pan. Place the bottom half on the plan and spread the shredded cheese evenly between the 6 bottom sides.
Top with the precooked shredded chicken, splitting the chicken evenly over the bottoms.
Place in the oven and bake 12 minutes.
Cook the bacon to the desired doneness then remove and drain on a paper towel covered plate.
Quick Coleslaw Recipe:
In a small bowl combine the coleslaw mixture, mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard and sugar.
Making it up to a half hour early and placing in the refrigerator makes sure all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Coleslaw makes for a great BBQ chicken sandwich topping. It’s creamy and crunchy and best of all, easy to make. Placing homemade coleslaw on top of a sandwich takes you to pinnacle sandwich Nirvana.
Now it’s time to assemble these BBQ Chicken Sandwich with coleslaw.
Top the baked bottom half of the sandwich with BBQ sauce of your choice. Add the coleslaw. Now the bacon. Finally, more BBQ Sauce.
Need more sandwich inspiration?
- Roasted Pepper Turkey Sandwich made in the air fryer!
- Chicken & Mushroom Subs
- Deli Counter Turkey Sandwich
And here you are……
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings |
sandwiches
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- 6 brioche buns
- 2 cups cooked chicken sliced or chopped
- 1/2 pound bacon cooked and drained of grease
- 2 Tbs butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 3 Tbs mayonnaise
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Ingredients
BBQ Chicken & Bacon Sandwich
Quick Coleslaw
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- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
- On a sheet pan split 6 brioche hamburger buns in half. Butter the tops and place face down on one half of the pan.
- Place the bottom half on the plan and spread the shredded cheese evenly between the 6 bottom sides.
- Top with the pre-cooked shredded chicken, splitting the chicken evenly over the bottoms.
- Place in the oven and bake 12 minutes.
- Cook the bacon to the desired doneness then remove and drain on a paper towel covered plate.
- Top the baked bottom half of the sandwich with BBQ sauce of your choice. Add the coleslaw. Now the bacon. Finally, more BBQ Sauce. Enjoy!
- In a small bowl combine the coleslaw mixture, mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, and sugar.
Salmon Tacos with Avocado Ranch
These Salmon Tacos are not only easy to make, but they are also delicious! Top with a homemade avocado ranch dressing and pair with a craft beer for a great light dinner.
We are just getting back from a H-O-T end of school year vacation to Florida. Ugh. While it has been cooler here lately in Michigan, I will not complain about it after spending a week there.
When we got home it was finally feeling like summer so to celebrate I’m making salmon tacos with fresh tomatoes, creamy avocado ranch, and crispy tortillas. This meal was giving me ALL the warm weather feels.
What beer pairs well with Salmon Tacos?
The beer: Local’s Light from Short’s Brewing.
For this taco and craft beer pairing ‘light’ meets ‘light’. A subtle beer that’s perfect for a summer afternoon then transitions perfectly to enjoy with this seafood taco recipe.
What to watch while eating tacos?
Season 3 of Claws just started! If you aren’t watching this show, you are missing out. It also works well with this Mitten Movie Night because it’s set in Florida.
How to Make Salmon Tacos:
Start by preparing the salmon. Lay the salmon out and sprinkle with a mixture of chili pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, paprika and cumin.
Next, cook the salmon in a frying pan with 2 tsp olive oil, skin side facing up. Fry for 3-5 minutes, then flip. Cook an addition 3-5 minutes.
Remove from pan and flake the salmon by using two forks.
How to make Avocado Ranch Dressing:
In a food processor add the skinned and pitted
Pulse the ingredients adding a light stream of olive oil until you get the consistency that you like. I used about 2 tsp of olive oil as I like it to thicker.
We LOVE Tacos! How about you? Check out these other taco recipes!
Crisp the flour tortillas over an open flame if you wish. Serve with chopped tomatoes, red onions, and a side of
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Servings |
servings
|
- 1 pound salmon
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- 6-8 flour tortillas
- 1 large ripe avocado skinned and pitted
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 3 Tbs mayonnaise
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 bunch fresh parsley cleaned of the stems (can sub for 1 Tbs dried parsely)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- olive oil to thin out as needed
Ingredients
Salmon Tacos
Avocado Ranch Dressing
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- Start by preparing the salmon. Lay the salmon out and sprinkle with a mixture of chili pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, and cumin.
- Cook the salmon in a frying pan with 2 tsp olive oil. Fry for 3-5 minutes, then flip. Cook an addition 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from pan and flake the salmon by using two forks.
- In a food processor add the skinned and pitted avocado, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, onion powder, white vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pulse the ingredients adding a light stream of olive oil until you get the consistency that you like.
- Crisp the flour tortillas over an open flame if you wish. Serve with chopped tomatoes, red onions, and a side of refried beans. Enjoy!
Lasagna French Bread
Just a few ingredients turn ordinary loaves of French bread into this wonderful lasagna/pizza bread hybrid. Lots of sauce, lots of cheese and so toasty on top. Everyone will love this Lasagna French Bread.
Growing up french bread pizzas from the freezer section
What beer pairs well with Lasagna French Bread and a movie?
The beer: Lager from Simpler Times.
We pick this beer up at Trader Joe’s. It tastes great and is a great value at less than $5 for a 6-pack.
Is Trader Joe’s a great place to buy beer?
Yes! Not only do they have a great selection of beers, they also let you taste anything you want before buying.
What movie pairs well with crunchy french bread pizzas and a cold beer?
For this Mitten Movie Night we are starting Harry Potter from the very beginning. We are heading to Florida in a few weeks and visiting Universal Studios while there.
This will be Little A’s first time going when he can actually enjoy everything there. He wasn’t even 2 the last time we went so I’m excited to get him into the movies so he will understand just how cool that part of the park is.
How to make Lasagna French Bread:
In a pan brown the ground beef until cooked through, drain the grease.
To the same pan add onions and garlic. There should be grease still in the pan, if not add a small amount of olive oil. Lightly brown then add the ground beef back to the pan. Now add the spaghetti sauce and cook until warmed through and all mixed together.
Cut the French bread loaves in half and removing some of the bread in the center.
Tips for making great french bread:
- Removing some of the bread in the center makes a
shallow area for adding the cottage cheese fillings. Makes it so much easier to eat! - Brush some melted butter and garlic on the bread to give it a ‘garlic bread’ feel.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
On a baking sheet lay down some parchment paper. Place the cut bread on top.
In a small bowl mix together the cottage cheese and beaten egg together. Place the mixture into the wells of the bread.
Spread the ground beef mixture on the top of the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the 4 slices of bread.
Finally spread the shredded cheese on top.
Place in the oven and bake for 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Want more foodie mash-up recipes?
- Wontons meet Coconut shrimp with these Baked Coconut Shrimp Wontons
- Pulled pork melds beautifully with creamy macaroni & cheese with this recipe for Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
- Sliders topped with Scotch Eggs!?!? Scotch Egg Sliders are a match made in heaven
And here you are…..
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings |
servings
|
- 1 pound ground beef cooked and drained of grease
- 1 small yellow onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 small loaves of French Bread sliced in half lengthwise
- 16 ounces cottage cheese
- 1 medium egg beaten
- 12 ounces pasta sauce
- 2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Ingredients
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- In a pan brown the ground beef until cooked through, drain the grease.
- To the same pan add onions and garlic. Lightly brown then add the ground beef back to the pan. Now add the spaghetti sauce and cook until warmed through and all mixed together.
- Cut the French bread loaves in half and removing some of the bread in the center.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
- On a baking sheet lay down some parchment paper. Place the cut bread on top.
- In a small bowl mix together the cottage cheese and beaten egg together. Place the mixture into the wells of the bread.
- Spread the ground beef mixture on the top of the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the 4 slices of bread.
- Finally spread the shredded cheese on top.
- Place in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
Bacon Wrapped Hot Dog
Do you love hot dogs? How about bacon? Now, how about garlic aioli? Let’s put those all together to make this Bacon Wrapped Hot Dog. Crack open a cold beer and dive into a different way to eat hot dogs.
Warmer weather just calls for some good hamburger and hot dog recipes! This specific recipe has been one that I’ve wanted to recreate at home for a while. While we were at a picnic through our local energy co-op there was a gourmet hot dog truck there and this was the one that I chose.
I picked it because: 1) It had bacon on it! 2) There was a sauce on it that sounded amazing, garlic aioli. My interest was peaked and I am glad that I chose this one, amazing.
Now that I’ve made this recipe at home, I will definently be adding it to my hot dog rotation for sure!
What beer pairs well with Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs with Garlic Aioli?
The beer: Woody Wheat Ale from Austin Brothers Beer Company.
A perfect wheat ale that doesn’t take away from the bacon and aioli.
What movie pairs well with hot dogs that have been wrapped in bacon:
For this Mitten Movie
How to make a Bacon Wrapped Hot Dog:
Wrapping bacon on hot dogs is so simple! Start by preheating the oven to 375 degrees.
Wrap a baking sheet with tin foil. This will make clean up so much easier!
Start by taking a piece of bacon at the top of a hot dog. Wrap the bacon going down around the hot dog. Place on the baking sheet and continue until they are all wrapped.
Bake in the oven for 12-18 minutes. The quickness of these getting done depending on your oven temperature.
Take the bacon and put under the broiler for 40-50 seconds.
Take them out and turn, put under the broiler again for another 40-50 seconds to crisp the other side.
Steam some buns and add the hot dogs to them. Now they are ready for topping!
How to make Garlic Aioli:
In a small bowl mix together the mayo, garlic cloves, 1 tsp lemon juice, salt and pepper.
To top off the hot dog I slathered garlic aioli on top, sprinkled Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, and jalapenos.
Want more hot dog recipes?
And here you are…..
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
Garlic Aoili recipe from Baking Mischief
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 18 minutes |
| Servings |
servings
|
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 slices bacon
- 8 hot dog buns
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced or 1 Tsp already peeled garlic
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp pepper
Ingredients
Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
Garlic Aioli
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Air Fryer Rosemary Cashews
For parties or anytime it’s necessary to make sure you always have snacks on hand! Air Fryer Rosemary Cashews are full of flavor and crunch and simple to make.
A handful of nuts is one of my very favorite snacks! Whether they are peanuts that I have to
A few years back my friend gave me a great recipe for Rosemary Cashews. The recipe was initially to be made in the oven but since I’m currently obsessed with my air fryer, I decided to give it a try in there.
Making these cashews in the air fryer meant that I could make a small batch for just me or a larger batch if we had guests or if I want to have extras for snacks.
How to make Air Fryer Rosemary Cashews:
I made these in a small batch for snacking so I used 1/4 of the recipe that I have below. I love that I can whip up a small amount for movie night, it works great in the air fryer.
In a microwave proof bowl melt the butter.
To the melted butter add Worcestershire Sauce, rosemary, chili powder, mustard powder,
Add the cashews to another bowl. Pour the butter mixture over the top.
Stir to coat the nuts with the butter mixture.
Place the nuts in a layer in the air fryer tray.
Set the air fryer to 300 degrees and cook for 4 minutes. Remove the tray and stir the nuts. Put the tray back and cook for an additional 4 minutes. Repeat one final time.
Check the nuts to see if they are golden. Take the nuts and spread them on a cookie sheet with parchment paper to cool.
Serve with some great craft beer and a good movie. Have extras? Store in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
Tips for making cashews in the air fryer:
- When making a larger batch, half the mixture and make in 2 separate batches.
- Do not be alarmed when you see that they are ‘soft’ to touch.
Want more air fryer recipes?
And here you are…
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 2 minutes |
| Cook Time | 16 minutes |
| Servings |
servings
|
- 2 pounds cashews
- 2 Tbs butter
- 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 4 Tbs rosemary
- 1 tsp chli powder
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 4 tsp brown sugar
Ingredients
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|
- In a microwave proof bowl melt the butter.
- To the melted butter add Worcestershire Sauce, rosemary, chili powder, mustard powder, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
- Add the cashews to another bowl. Pour the butter mixture over the top.
- Stir to coat the nuts with the butter mixture.
- Place the nuts in a layer in the air fryer tray. When making a larger batch, half the mixture and make in 2 separate batches.
- Set the air fryer to 300 degrees and cook for 4 minutes. Remove the tray and stir the nuts. Put the tray back and cook for an additional 4 minutes. Repeat one final time.
- Check the nuts to see if they are golden. Do not be alarmed when you see that they are 'soft' to touch. Take the nuts and spread them on a cookie sheet with parchment paper to cool.
- Store in a sealed container for up to 1 week.
No Air Fryer, No Problem Mix the butter mixture and nuts then add to a sheet pan. Cover with foil and bake in a 350 degree oven for 10-20 minutes, mixing half way through.
Smoked Sausage Nachos
Crispy tortilla chips, smoked sausage, a mix of peppers and onions drowned in beer cheese sauce. For the main dish or easy appetizer, Smoked Sausage Nachos are not your ordinary finger food.
I was looking around from some Midwest favorites to remake for Mitten Movie Night. That’s when I came across this article: 52 Comfort Foods All Midwesterners Know. Even as a Midwesterner, there were loads of recipes in here I had never even heard of. One that immediately jumped out to me on the list was Beer and Brat Nachos from Taste of Home.
A NACHO RECIPE LOADED WITH MEAT THEN COVERED IN BEER CHEESE? Yeah, that sounds good. In my Smoked Sausage Nachos, I swapped out the bratwurst and made it even simpler with cooked smoked sausage. Made a simple recipe for beer cheese sauce and we are on our way to tasty town.
This week is a “celebration’ of sorts on the blog! It’s the first time that I get to show off what I’ve been up to besides the blog.
A few months back I was asked if I would be interested in writing recipe and craft beer pairings for an area magazine, Michiana Life. Having this honor really felt like Bottom Left of the Mitten is not only online but also reaching out to local readers too!
I had been struggling lately with the decision to rebrand the blog name for a larger audience, but this just made me realize that sticking with what I started with was the right move.
This week is also 3 months at my new job! The new year had me
Working from home can be lonely and frustrating. Long hours paired with long winters and work always beckoning from the sleeping laptop even when you want to focus on other things. It’s rough. Since Little A started school in the Fall I felt like this was a great time to look for a part-time job.
So with resume in hand, I jumped at the chance to apply for a job at our local library, and happily got it! I couldn’t have asked for a better position. It gets me out of the house while still affording me time to work on my virtual assistant business and blog. Bonus, I get to be around books all day.
“Books are a uniquely portable magic.” – Stephen King in On Writing (print from InkInTheOzarks)
I’ve always been an avid reader so I thought this would be a great time to add another entertainment aspect of the blog and start adding book recommendations along with movies and TV shows. So let’s get started on these Smoke Sausage Nachos!
——-> Let’s follow each other on GoodReads! <——-
What book pairs well with beer and nachos smothered in beer cheese?
The book: No Exit by Taylor Adams.
Holy smokes, this book is a thrill ride from beginning to end. I could not put it down and you won’t want to either.
What craft beer pairs well with Smoke Sausage Nachos?
The beer: Larry’s Fruit Flight from Bell’s
The fruity notes and lime pair so well with not only the smoky sausage but the warm weather that is finally here!
How to make Smoked Sausage Nachos:
The best thing about this recipe is how easy it is! Let’s start with the beer cheese sauce.
For this I used a recipe from one of my favorite bloggers, The Chunky Chef. This Creamy Beer Cheese Sauce turned out great using Yuengling.
Start the rest of the nacho recipe by chopping the smoked sausage, peppers and onions.
In a pan heat up 1 tsp olive oil then
On a sheet pan spread out the tortilla chips. Add the sausage and peppers over the top.
Finally, pour the beer cheese sauce over the top. Add more chopped peppers and cilantro if you wish. Serve immediately.
Looking for more Sausage & Beer pairings?
And here you are……
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Servings |
servings
|
- 1 13-ounce bag restaurant style tortilla chips
- 1 small yellow onion chopped
- 1 green pepper chopped
- 1 orange pepper chopped
- 1 yellow pepper chopped
- 14 ounces smoked sausage I used skinless smoked sausage
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 cups beer cheese sauce I used The Chunky Chef's Creamy Beer Cheese Sauce recipe
Ingredients
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- For the beer cheese sauce: I used a recipe from, The Chunky Chef. I used Yuengling for the beer.
- Chop the smoked sausage, peppers and onions.
- In a pan heat up 1 tsp olive oil then sautee the sausage, peppers, and onions until the peppers and onions are cooked, around 6-8 minutes.
- On a sheet pan spread out the tortilla chips. Add the sausage and peppers over the top.
- Finally, pour the beer cheese sauce over the top. Add more chopped peppers and cilantro if you wish. Serve immediately.
Bubble & Squeak
Boiled potatoes and fried cabbage come together to form a great side dish or main ingredient in this Bubble & Squeak. Round out the meal with ham steaks, fried eggs and Hollandaise Sauce on the top.
Binge watching cooking shows on the weekend paid off big time. I mean look how good this recipe that was made on Food Paradise! The Chef made a classic dish, Bubble and Squeak, then added ham, eggs and one of my favorites…Hollandaise Sauce.
What beer pairs well with Bubble & Squeak?
The beer: Guinness, of course.
Would you like an alternative, local Irish beer? Short’s Brewing Uncle Steve’s Traditional Irish Style Stout.
Try my Irish Stout Cake made with Uncle Steve’s for a St. Patrick’s Day dessert.
What movie pairs well with a St. Patrick’s Day themed dinner?
For Mitten Movie Night why not just sit back and relax? Play some music, talk with each other and enjoy the fact that Spring is just about here.
But if you must watch something check out this article for some great recommendations—> 15 Best Movies to Watch for St. Patrick’s Day
For this classic dish, it’s a basic combination of cabbage and potatoes. I made this in two pots-a larger pot then a deep skillet.
How to make Bubble & Squeak:
Clean, peel and chop potatoes then add to water. Boil for 20 minutes until tender then drain.
Tips for making Bubble & Squeak:
- Previously, I chopped the cabbage for this recipe but felt like it was too chunky to form good patties. I updated the recipe and shredded the cabbage in the food processor.
- When forming the patties I let them chill in the freezer to firm them up, a step I didn’t do last time – even if you put them in the freezer for 10 minutes they will work much better for frying.
You will only need half of this, I made some coleslaw with the remaining half, yum!
To a food processor add the cabbage, onion and garlic and pulse until they are in small pieces.
Soften 1 Tbs butter in the pan the potatoes were cooked in. To the pot that the potatoes were cooked in sautee the cabbage mixture for 4-5 minutes.
Add the potatoes back into the pan plus the milk, butter, salt and pepper to taste, and parsley flakes. Using a potato masher smash everything together.
Take a cookie sheet and add parchment paper. Scoop out 8 patties then put them into the freezer for up to an hour. This step makes it SO MUCH EASIER to fry the patties.
Once they have cooled set up the staging area. In 3 separate containers crack 2 eggs, 1/2 cup flour with salt and pepper to taste then 1/2 cup breadcrumbs.
Bring 1/2 cup oil to frying to med/high heat for frying. Take the patties, flip on both sides into the flour, then the egg, then the breadcrumbs.
Add to oil in the pan frying on each side for 4-5 minutes. Crispy!! Remove and add to a plate with a paper towel.
The Chef on the show served the patties with poached eggs, ham steaks and Hollandaise Sauce, the sauce is what sold me on making this for sure. Eggs Benedict is what I order whenever I go out if it’s on the menu. While I’ve tried to make the sauce many, many times at home with a 100% fail rate I quickly realized there was a better alternative. The best part is it isn’t too buttery, cook the eggs I add or have a bitter lemon taste. Win! That alternative is this—>
Prepare the sauce as recommended on the package. Then all that’s left to do is to cook the eggs which can be fried or poached. Heat the ham steaks.
Prepare on a plate and drizzle with the sauce.
Need some more St. Patrick’s Day recipes?
- Check out these Unique St. Patrick’s Day Recipes
And here you are…..
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
Originally published in February of 2017. Updated photos & recipe March of 2019.
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Servings |
servings
|
Ingredients
- 1/2 small head cabbage chopped
- 1 small white onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 4 potatoes peeled and chopped, add water to boil
- 2 Tbs milk
- 1 Tbs butter
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs, original
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 Tbs parsley flakes 1/2 in potato pattoe, 1/2 in sauce
- 8 eggs poached
- 6 ham steaks heated
- 0.9 ounces Knorr Hollandaise Sauce pkg prepared to package directions
Ingredients
|
|
Instructions
-
Clean, peel and chop potatoes then add to water. Boil for 20 minutes until tender then drain.
-
To a food processor add the cabbage, onion and garlic and pulse until they are in small pieces.
-
Soften 1 Tbs butter in the pan the potatoes were cooked in. To the pot that the potatoes were cooked in sautee the cabbage mixture for 4-5 minutes.
-
Add the potatoes back into the pan plus the milk, butter, salt and pepper to taste, and parsley flakes. Using a potato masher smash everything together.
-
Take a cookie sheet and add parchment paper. Scoop out 8 patties then put them into the freezer for up to an hour. This step makes it SO MUCH EASIER to fry the patties.
-
Once they have cooled set up the staging area. In 3 separate containers crack 2 eggs, 1/2 cup flour with salt and pepper to taste then 1/2 cup breadcrumbs.
-
Bring 1/2 cup oil to frying to med/high heat for frying. Take the patties, flip on both sides into the flour, then the egg, then the breadcrumbs.
-
Add to oil in the pan frying on each side for 4-5 minutes. Remove and add to a plate with a paper towel.
-
Prepare the sauce as recommended on the package. Then all that's left to do is to cook the eggs which can be fried or poached. Heat the ham steaks.
-
Prepare on a plate and drizzle with the sauce. Enjoy!
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
Dig into the comforting bowl of Shrimp & Corn Chowder. Thick and full of shrimp, crunchy corn, potatoes, and a creamy broth. The perfect comfort food soup.
Well, it’s still REALLY cold here. The beginning of the week was brutal and now it’s about to start a weekend of storms and high winds. This though I can easily get over because Spring is going to come eventually. Until then, I have this beautiful soup and tonight’s Mitten Movie Night to keep me warm.
What movie pairs well with cold weather and warm soup?
If you have Hulu you have to watch Down. This movie was a real nail biter! Suspense fans will love it.
What beer pairs well with Shrimp & Corn Chowder?
The beer: The Poet from New Holland Brewing.
Creamy and light this is the perfect pairing with the flavors in this chowder.
This whole meal will leave you satisfied but not weighed down and napping on the couch before the movie even starts.
The best part of this soup is that it’s easy to make. As always, I use frozen already cooked shrimp. This may not be popular but it’s one of my top convenience items.
How else can you use frozen precooked shrimp?
- Baked Coconut Shrimp Wontons (one of my most popular recipes)
- Shrimp Spaghetti
- Shrimp Cannelloni
How to make Shrimp & Corn Chowder:
Start by thawing the shrimp in warm water.
Next, wash and cube the potatoes, red peppers, onions and mince the garlic.
Once the vegetables have been chopped and the shrimp thawed add 2 Tbs to a large stockpot.
Now add the chopped vegetables, garlic, and thawed shrimp. Sautee the vegetables for 2 minutes.
Add the flour then stir it all together. Now add the corn, vegetable broth, and seasoning. Let simmer for 25 minutes.
During the last 10 minutes take a small bowl and mix together the milk and flour. This will thicken up the chowder. Now add the Parmesan cheese. Pour into the soup and let finish cooking.
Sprinkle with more Parmesan and shrimp if you like. Serve with crackers. And here you are……
From our home in the Bottom Left of the Mitten to yours ~ Enjoy!
*Affiliate links are included in this post. Please read my Discloser Policy.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings |
servings
|
- 8 ounces cooked shrimp thawed
- 2 potatoes cleaned and chopped
- 1 red pepper chopped
- 1 small yellow onion chopped
- 15.25 ounces sweet corn
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp Spanish paprika
- 2 Tbs flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- Paremsan Cheese & Extra Shrimp for topping
Ingredients
|
|
- Start by thawing the shrimp in warm water.
- Next, wash and cube the potatoes, red peppers, onions and mince the garlic.
- Once the vegetables have been chopped and the shrimp thawed add 2 Tbs to a large stockpot.
- Now add the chopped vegetables, garlic and thawed shrimp. Sautee the vegetables for 2 minutes.
- Add the flour then stir it all together. Now add the corn, vegetable broth, and seasoning. Let simmer for 25 minutes.
- During the last 10 minutes take a small bowl and mix together the milk and flour. This will thicken up the chowder. Now add the Parmesan cheese. Pour into the soup and let finish cooking.
- Sprinkle with more Parmesan and shrimp if you like. Serve with crackers. Enjoy!
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