Snacks + Appetizers Archives - A Beautiful Mess

28+ Air Fryer Recipes

Emma Chapman — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:04:00 +0000

It’s no secret that we love sharing air fryer recipes, so we thought we’d put together all our best ones in a single post. I love cooking with my air fryer because it’s fast, healthy, and super easy. Absolutely anyone can have success with an air fryer and it makes a great alternative to turning on your oven, or if you don’t have an oven (smaller apartments, renovating currently, etc.) or the microwave.

These are all our very best air fryer recipes, including main courses, meat dishes, vegetable side dishes, snacks, desserts, breakfast and more!

Air Fryer Cauliflower

At a loss for what to do with cauliflower? Try this easy vegetable side dish recipe.

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Air Fryer Meatballs

Simple, juicy meatballs you can cook in the air fryer.

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How to Cook Bacon: Oven, Air Fryer, Microwave

The best ways to cook bacon in the oven, air fryer, or microwave. Breakfast could not be easier!

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S’mores in the Oven, Air Fryer, or Microwave

How to make indoor s’mores with three different methods: the air fryer, oven or even the microwave.

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Baked Potatoes: Oven, Air Fryer, Microwave

Three methods for a perfect baked potato using your air fryer, oven or even the microwave.

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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

A made from scratch chicken tenders recipe you can quickly make in your air fryer.

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Air Fryer Broccoli (With Cheese)

How to make air fryer broccoli with or without cheese.

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Air Fryer Toast

This is such a simple way to make delicious toast that tastes like it's from your favorite restaurant.

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Air Fryer Salmon

How to easily air fry salmon. I love this over rice, noodles or on top of a flavorful salad.

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Air Fryer Tofu

Crispy air fried tofu without oil. I love this recipe with different sauces over rice for a quick, meatless dinner.

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Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas

A quick and easy snack you make in the air fryer.

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Air Fryer Okra

The best crispy air fried okra recipe. This is classic summer side dish!

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Crispy Air Fryer Wings

A simple and crispy air fried chicken wing recipe. You can use any sauce but we usually use buffalo hot sauce at our house, but BBQ is a close second!

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Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes

How to make delicious and crispy breakfast potatoes in the air fryer; these are like southern hash browns.

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Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

A crispy Brussels sprout recipe that can be made in an air fryer—a super simple and delicious vegetable side dish.

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Air Fryer Pickles

This is a simple recipe to make crispy air fried pickles—such a delicious appetizer!

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Easy (Air Fryer) Seasoned French Fries

How to make classic french fries in an air fryer—perfect with burgers or veggie burgers.

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Air Fryer Sweet Potato

How to make air fryer sweet potatoes—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

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Air Fryer Steak

How to make a perfectly cooked steak in an air fryer. This recipe is great on its own, or for fajitas.

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Air Fryer Asparagus

How to make perfectly tender asparagus in the air fryer, a great side dish for steak or other main courses.

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Air Fryer Chicken

How to make perfectly cooked, juicy chicken breasts in the air fryer. We make this for dinner at our house almost every week.

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Air Fryer Green Beans

Perfectly cooked, crispy green beans made in the air fryer. A healthy and tasty side dish.

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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

How to make crispy, delicious sweet potato fries in the air fryer.

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Air Fryer Fish

Crispy, breaded fish fillets perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. I usually use tilapia but other fish fillets could work well in this recipe.

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Air Fryer Zucchini

Crispy zucchini made in the air fryer, a simple and delicious vegetable side dish.

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Air Fryer Donuts

How to make donuts from canned biscuits in the air fryer. These will always remind me of middle school sleepovers.

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Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs

One of the easiest ways to hard boil eggs is in an air fryer. I love these on salads or for making deviled eggs.

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Air Fryer Grilled Cheese

Gooey on the inside, crispy on the outside grilled cheese sandwiches made in the air fryer—perfect to pair with soup!

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Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Crispy, juicy fried chicken made in an air fryer! This is a lighter version of the classic.

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Air Fryer Meatballs

Emma Chapman — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 14:01:00 +0000

I am obsessed with my air fryer and have shared way too many air fryer recipes on this site already. But, I’m not done because these air fryer meatballs are so delicious and easy and the perfect compliment to a bowl of pasta and red sauce.

This air fryer meatball recipe is pretty simple. These will go will with just about any sauce or gravy you want to serve them with. But, if you want something even more flavorful, try my stuffing meatballs. I also love that when you cook with your air fryer you can see all the liquid fat that drains off as they cook (it will be in the bottom of the air fryer, under the grate). So, this is a lighter option for cooking something delicious that hopefully your whole family will love.

Related: Not sure what to serve these with? Try this easy vodka sauce and any pasta or gnocchi you have on hand.

Ingredients

Ground beef, pork or a mix – see notes
Italian breadcrumbs
Milk
Egg
Garlic
Parmesan cheese – the powdery kind is great for this recipe
Salt and pepper

If you want to add more spices to this mix, you totally can! Some things to try might be onion powder, cayenne, chili powder, or even Italian seasoning.

Directions

Mince the garlic.

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix together to create a meatball batter. Use your (clean) hands to form 16 balls, roughly the same size.

Spray your air fryer grate with a little nonstick spray. Then place the meatballs inside.

Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 12 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F, but you can also cut one open to check that it’s no longer pink inside (a tiny bit of pink is OK, but it should not be raw).

Serve warm with pasta and sauce, gravy and mashed potatoes, or whatever else your heart desires.

Tips & Notes

If you want, you can add parchment paper to your air fryer. If you do, for this recipe I would recommend add some slits or holes to the center so the excess fat can drain off to the bottom (under the grate).
The outside of these meatballs will be almost crispy, as the air fryer is a great tool for, well, air frying. So, these also can make an excellent appetizer. But do take care not to overcook them or they can become dry.
I like to use a mix of ground meat for this recipe. I often use “Boston Burger” ground meat, which is 60% beef and 40% pork and pretty common at the grocery store I frequent. But any ground meat can work in this recipe! Just keep in mind if you use a more lean (chicken, turkey) ground meat, the nutrition facts will vary from the ones in my recipe card below.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some vegetable and other side dish options to go with these air fryer meatballs:

Roasted Carrots
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted Cauliflower
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted Green Beans
Baked Potatoes – in the oven, air fryer or microwave

Air Fryer Meatballs

simple, juicy meatballs you can cook in the air fryer

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, meatballs

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 12

Total Time 22

Servings meatballs

Calories 97kcal

Author Emma Chapman

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef or a mix of ground meats
⅓ cup Italian breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 egg
4 cloves garlic
⅓ cup Parmesan cheese the powdery kind
salt and pepper

Instructions

Mince the garlic.
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix together to create a meatball batter.
Use your (clean) hands to form 16 balls, roughly the same size.
Spray your air fryer grate with a little nonstick spray. Then place the meatballs inside.
Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 12 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Serve warm with pasta and sauce, gravy and mashed potatoes, or whatever else your heart desires.

Notes

If you want, you can add parchment paper to your air fryer. If you do, for this recipe I would recommend add some slits or holes to the center so the excess fat can drain off to the bottom (under the grate).

The outside of these meatballs will be almost crispy, as the air fryer is a great tool for, well, air frying. So, these also can make an excellent appetizer. But do take care not to overcook them or they can become dry.

I like to use a mix of ground meat for this recipe. I often use “Boston Burger” ground meat, which is 60% beef and 40% pork and pretty common at the grocery store I frequent. But any ground meat can work in this recipe! Just keep in mind if you use a more lean (chicken, turkey) ground meat, the nutrition facts will vary from the ones in my recipe card below.

Nutrition

25+ Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Jacki Moseley — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 14:00:00 +0000

If you had to pick your favorite Thanksgiving food, would you choose turkey, dessert, or side dishes? In my opinion, sides are the ultimate winner.

I could fill a whole plate with Thanksgiving sides and be happy! However, dessert is a close second. I always have room for pie.

In this post, I’m sharing 25+ easy Thanksgiving side dishes, many of which can be made ahead. Time is of the essence when you’re planning and preparing a Thanksgiving meal. I hope this recipe roundup helps you plan your menu (and impresses your guests, too!).

This roundup of Thanksgiving side dishes includes savory casseroles, salads (including the best Jello salad recipe) and unique dishes like stuffing meatballs.

Looking for more Thanksgiving ideas? Check out …

Sweet Potato Casserole

A sweet and savory side dish with brown sugar pecan topping OR toasted marshmallows.

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7 Layer Salad

A decadent salad perfect for a holiday meal. If you’re in charge of brining the salad, try this recipe!

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Garlic Butter

The perfect compliment to homemade or store-bought bread rolls. This is a reader favorite!

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Broccoli Casserole

A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with a Ritz cracker topping. Love this recipe!

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Funeral Potatoes

A creamy, cheesy comforting potato casserole with cornflake topping.

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Stuffed Mushrooms

This can be an easy appetizer or side dish option for any holiday meal!

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Best Stuffing Recipe

This is a classic! The very best Thanksgiving stuffing, sometimes called dressing. You can bake it in a casserole pan or use it to stuff a turkey.

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Pepper Jack Green Bean Casserole

A classic green bean casserole recipe made with pepper jack cheese for added creaminess and spice.

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Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes … made easy. Throw everything in the crockpot on Thanksgiving morning, and you’ll have delicious mashed potatoes in no time.

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Stuffing Meatballs

If you love stuffing but want to make it a little different this year, you are going to love stuffing meatballs. They’re juicy, delicious, and can be made the night before.

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Creamy Kale, Brussels and Cranberry Salad

My favorite salad! Crunchy kale, Brussels sprouts, sliced almonds, and a bright burst of flavor from fresh cranberries.

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Easy Corn Casserole

This savory corn casserole is a comforting side dish that’s perfect for any holiday feast. And, it’s super easy to make—just put everything in the dish and bake!

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Honey Butter

Honey butter takes me back to my childhood. I love the idea of creating a honey butter board to snack on with things like rolls, croissants, and crackers!

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Jello Salad

This is Emma’s great-aunt’s Jello salad recipe—it’s so nostalgic and delicious. It has a pretzel crust, cream cheese center, and a strawberry-cranberry Jello top.

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Garlic and Miso Green Beans

Green beans are a classic Thanksgiving side, but this recipe takes it up a notch with the addition of garlic, soy sauce, and miso paste.

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Bacon and Bourbon Stuffing

This bacon and bourbon stuffing has been a popular recipe on our blog for years. Bacon, bourbon, bread … what’s not to love?

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Easy Jalapeño Popper Dip

My all-time favorite hot dip for any gathering is this jalapeño popper dip. Everybody loves it and it’s incredibly easy to make.

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Easy Broccoli Salad

This broccoli salad has only three ingredients, plus a creamy dressing. But don’t let that fool you—it’s full of flavor and can be customized with all kinds of add-in ingredients.

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All the Herbs Popovers

Did someone say popovers? If bread-making seems intimidating, this is the recipe for you. These popovers don’t require any yeast or rising time, and your guests will love them!

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Creamy Garlic Mac & Cheese

This creamy garlic macaroni and cheese can be made a in a crockpot. That’s right—delicious, homemade mac and cheese without all the work. It also makes great leftovers (if your guests don’t eat all of it).

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Parmesan Baked Brussels Sprouts

What’s a Thanksgiving side dish roundup without Brussels sprouts? I love this recipe because the sprouts are extra crispy, and the addition of parmesan and lemon juice is so good.

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Duchess Sweet Potato Casserole

This duchess sweet potato casserole is equally pretty and mouthwatering. It’s rich, creamy and a little savory with the addition of bacon.

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Cauliflower Au Gratin

If you love Potatoes Au Gratin, you have to try this version made with cauliflower. The basic premise is vegetables dressed up in butter, milk, and most importantly … cheese.

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Easy Gluten-Free Bread

If you or your guests are gluten-sensitive, this easy gluten-free bread will satisfy any bread cravings you have.

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Creamy Kale Harvest Salad

There are plenty of fall-time flavors in this kale salad, like pecans, apples, and dried cranberries. And the homemade avocado dressing is incredible!

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Best Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Here’s one more macaroni and cheese recipe option that’s hard to resist. Baked macaroni and cheese. It’s a classic, delicious recipe topped with homemade breadcrumbs. Yum!

Click for the recipe!

Lentil Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce

If you’re hosting a vegan Thanksgiving or prefer a meatless option, you won’t be disappointed with these lentil meatballs topped with homemade cranberry sauce.

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Best Stuffing Recipe

Emma Chapman — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 13:14:00 +0000

This is my all-time favorite stuffing recipe. It’s a classic with pretty basic ingredients and it’s chock full of fresh herbs which not only give this recipe tons of flavor, it makes your whole kitchen smell like Thanksgiving or Christmas too.

Stuffing is one of my favorite side dishes. It may be a regional thing but I know some people call this dressing. However, I’ve always called it stuffing as you can also use this recipe to stuff a turkey with. Whatever you call it, this is essentially a savory bread pudding and I am here for it!

Related: Need more side dishes? Try our Green Bean Casserole, Broccoli Casserole, Corn Casserole, the Best Baked Macaroni and Cheese, or Jello Salad. And if you have leftover herbs from this recipe, try this Thanksgiving Stove Simmer.

Ingredients

Bread – stale bread is great! Any kind: Italian, cornbread, white sandwich, etc.
Butter
Shallots
Garlic
Celery
Sage
Parsley
Rosemary
Thyme
Chicken stock
Eggs
Salt and pepper

How to make stuffing casserole

Cube the bread the night before you make this. I like to leave it in a bag, loosely sealed, so it dries out some. It doesn’t have to be completely dry or stale, but fresh soft bread isn’t as good for this recipe.

Chop up the shallots and celery. Mince the garlic. Chop up the fresh herbs.

In a large sauce pan, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Then stir in the shallots, garlic and celery. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Then stir in most of the fresh herbs, reserving around 1/3 of them to top the stuffing with before baking.

Stir together the chicken stock and eggs until well combined.

In a large mixing bowl, or two if needed, add the bread crumbs, cooked shallot mixture, and the chicken stock mixture. Stir until everything is well coated and combined. Season well with salt and pepper.

Butter a 9×13 baking dish, or coat in nonstick cooking spray. Add the stuffing mixture to the pan. Top with the remaining herbs. Cover in aluminum foil.

Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue to bake for another 25-28 minutes. The total bake time will be 45-48 minutes. The stuffing should look golden brown along the edges when done.

Tips & Substitutions

You can substitute the shallots for a yellow or white onion if needed.
I like to buy the day old bread that’s on sale at the grocery store for this, if I don’t have leftover bread to use. Also, you can save random bits in a bag in the freezer leading up to making this recipe.
If you want to make this ahead, simply follow this recipe until the point of baking. Instead, store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
You can use this recipe to stuff a Thanksgiving turkey, but keep in mind depending on the size of bird this may make too much stuffing to all fit inside the cavity. You may have enough to cook this stuffing in an 8×8 size pan in addition to stuffing the turkey. But, again, it depends on the size of bird you are preparing.

Serving Suggestions

To me, stuffing is a Thanksgiving side dish and that’s usually when I make this recipe each year. That being said, here are some main course recipes that would be delicious alongside this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make stuffing casserole ahead of time?

Stuffed Mushrooms

Emma Chapman — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 12:59:00 +0000

You know it’s a good party when the appetizers are amazing. Which is exactly why I recommend you make these stuffed mushrooms next time you are hosting! And if you want even more appetizer ideas, check out our Snacks + Appetizers archive.

These stuffed mushrooms are easy to make. You can even make them ahead and wait to bake until just before serving. They have simple ingredients but are so delicious. And no matter if you serve them as a starter or a side dish, they will elevate any meal.

Related: Love mushrooms? Next, try homemade cream of mushroom soup or portobello burgers.

Ingredients

Baby portobello mushrooms – other mushrooms varieties can work as well
Butter
Olive oil
Shallot
Garlic
Italian bread crumbs
Cream cheese
Parmesan
Parsley – or another fresh herb such as rosemary

Directions

Remove the inside stems from the mushrooms caps, and reserve half of them. Rinse everything well, removing any dirt and pat dry.

Chop up the reserved mushroom stems and shallot. Mince the garlic. In a small pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat and cook the steams, shallot and garlic just until soft (2-3 minutes).

In a bowl, add the softened cream cheese, the cooked shallot mixture, and the bread crumbs. Stir until combined. Fill the empty mushroom caps with this mixture. Then dip the tops in Parmesan.

Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 20 minutes. Top with chopped parsley just before serving.

Tips for Making

If you want to make these dairy free, swap the cream cheese for a vegan cream cheese and omit the Parmesan.
I like to serve these on a different plate or serving dish than what they were baked in because they will release moisture during baking and if they sit in their juices too long (like if you serve them as an appetizer and someone doesn’t get one for 20 minutes, etc,), then they can become a little soggy.
I usually top these with parsley, but other herbs work great as well. I think these feel a little more festive, like for Thanksgiving or Christmas if you add a little fresh rosemary or thyme in place of the parsley.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed mushrooms are great for holiday meals as an appetizer or a side dish, but here are some main courses you could also choose to serve these with:

Stuffed Mushrooms

an easy appetizer or side dish

Course Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword mushroom

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings mushrooms

Calories 40kcal

Author Emma Chapman

Ingredients

16 ounces baby portobello mushrooms
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 shallot
3 cloves garlic
4 ounces cream cheese
¼ cup Italian bread crumbs
¼ cup Parmesan
2 tablespoons parsley

Instructions

Remove the inside stems from the mushrooms caps, and reserve half of them. Rinse everything well, removing any dirt and pat dry.
Chop up the reserved mushroom stems and shallot. Mince the garlic.
In a small pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat and cook the steams, shallot and garlic just until soft (2-3 minutes).
In a bowl, add the softened cream cheese, the cooked shallot mixture, and the bread crumbs. Stir until combined. Fill the empty mushroom caps with this mixture. Then dip the tops in Parmesan.
Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 20 minutes.
Top with chopped parsley just before serving.

Notes

If you want to make these dairy free, swap the cream cheese for a vegan cream cheese and omit the Parmesan.

I like to serve these on a different plate or serving dish than what they were baked in because they will release moisture during baking and if they sit in their juices too long (like if you serve them as an appetizer and someone doesn’t get one for 20 minutes, etc.), then they can become a little soggy.

I usually top these with parsley, but other herbs work great as well. I think these feel a little more festive, like for Thanksgiving or Christmas if you add a little fresh rosemary or thyme in place of the parsley.

Nutrition

Broccoli Casserole

Emma Chapman — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 13:35:00 +0000

Being born and raised in the Midwest, it probably won’t surprise you that I LOVE a casserole. Nothing says holiday meal or comfort food quite like a casserole. I have been known to request them for my birthday as well. And this broccoli casserole is one of my favorites!

This broccoli casserole recipe has it all—broccoli, cheese, a good amount of butter and a Ritz cracker topping. If you need an easy and delicious side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas this year, make this. It’s a crowd-pleaser.

Related: Love broccoli? Me too! Next up, try broccoli salad, broccoli slaw, Air Fryer broccoli or broccoli cheddar soup.

Ingredients

Broccoli
Shallot – or yellow onion
Garlic
Butter
All-purpose flour
Milk
Chicken stock – or vegetable
Cheddar cheese
Ritz crackers

If you like, you could top this casserole with something crunchy beyond Ritz crackers, like French fried onions. This would make it similar to green bean casserole, which is another favorite of mine.

How to make Broccoli Casserole

Trim the stems from the broccoli florets. You want bite-sized pieces or a little larger. Chop the shallot and mince the garlic.

In a medium to large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Cook the shallot and garlic in the butter for a minute or two. Whisk in the flour, as this will create a paste consistency. Then whisk in the milk and stock, which will create a very thin roux or gravy-like consistency. Then stir in the cheese and continue to cook and stir until the cheese is melted. Season this mixture with a little salt and pepper and then stir in the broccoli so it all gets coated.

Pour this mixture into a square (8×8) baking pan. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the cracker topping. In a food processor, grind the crackers into crumbs (you can also do this in a ziplock bag with a rolling pin). Then stir in the melted butter and seasoning.

Once the casserole has baked for the initial 30 minutes, remove it from the oven. Take off the foil and sprinkle the cracker topping all over. Bake for an additional 6-8 minutes. The cracker topping should deepen in color and the casserole should be bubbling along the sides.

Allow to cool slightly before serving. If you serve the casserole piping hot right from the oven, it will be more liquid-y.

More Great Casserole Recipes

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to parboil the broccoli before adding to the casserole?

Caramel Apples

Laura Gummerman — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 13:30:00 +0000

Nothing says fall weather like a caramel apple and we’ve got the easiest way to make one at home! While you can do a homemade version of a caramel apple and make your own caramel from scratch, this recipe uses store-bought caramels so you can get to the dipping (and eating!) part of your treat sooner.

Caramel apples also make great gifts so you can make a batch to hand out at Halloween parties, as a thank-you present, or just make a few for your family on a crisp fall day. Add fun toppings to make it a gourmet treat!

Looking for more fall recipes? Check out:

What kind of apples are best for caramel apples?

The variety of apple that you choose for your caramel apple depends entirely on your taste! If you have a sweet tooth, you would probably enjoy a sweeter variety like a Fuji, Honeycrisp, or a Pink Lady as your apple base. For a more tart contrast to your sweet caramel topping, Granny Smiths are the most popular choice. These are all firmer choices than say a softer Macintosh variety and give you a better crunch factor when eating your treat.

Caramel Apple Tip! Look for apples that are small to medium in size and round in shape for that perfect caramel apple look!

Caramel Apple Ingredients:

Wrapped Caramels: Using pre-made caramels is the fastest and easiest way to go about making your caramel apples. Most grocery stores sell these in the baking area or right next to the apples in fall, but you can also get them online if your local store doesn’t carry them.

Fresh Apples: Choose a firm apple that is either more sweet or more tart depending on how much sweetness you want to add to the caramel layer. Make sure to wash off the wax before dipping your apple so that the caramel has a better chance of sticking and won’t slide off.

Heavy Cream or Milk: Just adding a little heavy cream or milk to the caramel will help thin it out a bit to make it more “dippable.”

Toppings (optional): You can do a second dip after the caramel into fun gourmet toppings like crushed nuts or M&Ms, pretzel bits, sprinkles, flaked sea salt, crushed Oreos, or coconut!

Looking for a delicious caramel dip to eat with apples? Try our Cream Cheese Fruit Dip (4 Ways!)

Tools You Need To Make Caramel Apples:

Skewers: While the classic caramel apple is usually perched upon a wooden stick, you can also use a popsicle stick, or, in a pinch, even just stick a fork into it if you don’t have any thick skewers at home.

Melting tools: To melt your caramel, you want either a microwave and microwave-safe bowl, a saucepan, a double-boiler pot, or a glass Pyrex-type bowl to set on top of a saucepan of boiling water.

Nonstick Cooking Spray: You’ll want to make sure your apples don’t stick to the plate or pan you are placing them on, so use some nonstick cooking spray on the surface first to make sure you can remove them easily.

Dipping container (optional but helpful): While you can just roll your apple around in the bowl or pot you melted the caramel in, for smaller batches it’s also nice to have a Pyrex glass measuring cup to melt the caramel in so you have a nice little container to dunk the apple right in to.

Tips for Making Caramel Apples:

Remove the wax from your apples. You’ll want to wash your apples and try to remove the wax from the apples before dipping them so the caramel will stick better. Run the apples under some hot water and use a fruit wash or dish soap and a clean scrubby pad or textured towel to rub vigorously over the apples to help remove some of the wax. Dry apples very well so no moisture remains.

Chill apples before and after dipping. After you add your skewer, you can chill your apples in the fridge so that the caramel sets up faster and less will run off the surface when dipping (and then put them back in the fridge so the caramel will set up faster).

Have toppings already prepped. If you are dipping your apple into toppings, make sure you already have your bowls of toppings ready so the caramel doesn’t set before you can get your toppings together.

Drizzle chocolate after cooling: You can also drizzle melted chocolate over your apple for a yummy addition, but wait until the apples are cool so the warm caramel doesn’t melt the chocolate.

How to Make Caramel Apples:

Prepare the apples: Once clean, make sure the apples are thoroughly dry before dipping! Skewer your apple with your stick or fork and set aside.

Melt the caramel: Put your caramels and heavy cream/milk in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30-second increments, stirring well between each heating session, until the caramel is smooth and melted. If the caramel seems thin, let it sit for a minute or two to thicken up a bit before dipping.

Can I make caramel apples on the stovetop without a microwave?

Yes! If you don’t have a microwave, you can still make caramel apples easily in a saucepan, a double-boiler pot, or a glass Pyrex-type bowl set on top of a saucepan of boiling water (it will take longer to melt this way, so be patient).

For a regular saucepan, add caramels and milk to pan and heat on medium-low heat, stirring until melted. If using the double-boiler or bowl on top method, just bring a few inches of water to a boil in a pot, set the top of the double boiler or glass bowl on top with your caramel and milk, reduce the heat to a low boil/simmer and stir occasionally until melted.

Dip the apples: Now that your caramel is melted, spray a tray or plate with nonstick cooking spray and dip your apple into the melted caramel at an angle, twisting it around until the apple is coated as well as you would like.

Lift the apple to let the excess caramel drip off and scrape the bottom over the side of the bowl to get extra excess. As the caramel gets lower in the bowl, you can also use a spoon to pour the caramel over the apple to cover the sides or tilt the bowl or pan so the caramel pools in one spot.

After dipping in your caramel, you can do a second dip into your topping of choice to give it some added flavor before setting it on your tray or plate. Try some black and orange sprinkles for a Halloween caramel apple treat!

If your caramel starts to set as you continue dipping your apples, reheat it for 15 seconds at a time in the microwave until the texture is dippable again.

Let the caramel set: Let your apples cool in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes to allow the caramel to fully set. Now your apple is ready to eat!

How do I store caramel apples?

You can store caramel apples in the fridge for up to two weeks and you can also wrap them in clear treat bags individually to give as gifts!

Caramel Apple Tip: Don’t cut into your apples until you are ready to eat them, otherwise they will start to turn brown.

Looking for more apple recipes? Check out:

Easiest Homemade Caramel Apple

Make delicious caramel apples at home and add gourmet toppings

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword apples, caramel apple, fall, halloween, halloween desserts, halloween party

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Cooling Time 30

Total Time 1 30

Servings people

Calories 97kcal

Author Laura Gummerman

Cost $15

Equipment

8-10 wooden skewers
microwave or saucepan or double boiler if using the stove
microwave or heatproof bowl

Ingredients

2 11-ounce bag of wrapped caramels like Kraft brand
8-10 small to medium apples
3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream or milk
chopped toppings of your choice

Instructions

Prepare the apples: Make sure the apples are thoroughly dry before dipping! Skewer your apple with your stick or fork and set aside.
Melt the caramel: Put your caramels and heavy cream/milk in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30-second increments, stirring well between each heating session, until the caramel is smooth and melted. If the caramel seems thin, let it sit for a minute or two to thicken up a bit before dipping.
Dip the apples: Now that your caramel is melted, spray a tray or plate with nonstick cooking spray and dip your apple into the melted caramel at an angle, twisting it around until the apple is coated as well as you would like. Lift the apple to let the excess caramel drip off and scrape the bottom over the side of the bowl to get extra excess. As the caramel gets lower in the bowl, you can also use a spoon to pour the caramel over the apple to cover the sides or tilt the bowl or pan so the caramel pools in one spot.
After dipping in your caramel, you can do a second dip into your topping of choice to give it some added flavor before setting it on your tray or plate. Try some black and orange sprinkles for a Halloween caramel apple treat!
If your caramel starts to set as you continue dipping your apples, reheat it for 15 seconds at a time in the microwave until the texture is dippable again.
Let the caramel set: Let your apples cool in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes to allow the caramel to fully set. Now your apple is ready to eat!

Notes

Can I make caramel apples on the stovetop without a microwave?

Yes! If you don’t have a microwave, you can still make caramel apples easily in a saucepan, a double-boiler pot, or a glass pyrex-type bowl set on top of a saucepan of boiling water (it will take longer to melt this way, so be patient). For a regular saucepan, add caramels and milk to pan and heat on medium-low heat, stirring until melted. If using the double-boiler or bowl on top method, just bring a few inches of water to a boil in a pot, set the top of the double boiler or glass bowl on top with your caramel and milk, reduce the heat to a low boil/simmer and stir occasionally until melted.

You can store caramel apples in the fridge for up to two weeks and you can also wrap them in clear treat bags individually to give as gifts!

Nutrition

Chocolate Hummus

Emma Chapman — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 13:13:00 +0000

When you think of hummus, your mind might conjure images of a savory, chickpea-based dip paired with pita bread or crunchy vegetables. However, this is a delicious twist to this traditional Middle Eastern dish: chocolate hummus. This makes a really fun and surprising addition to any dessert board or snack plate!

To me, chocolate hummus is the perfect snack to satisfy a sweet craving but without overindulging and feeling a sugar crash later. I also love that chocolate hummus packs a little bit of plant-based protein into the mix.

Related: Another great sweet tooth satisfying recipe is Date and Almond Hummus or try our Chocolate-Covered Strawberries or Chocolate Tart. It’s so good!

Ingredients

Chickpeas – also called garbanzo beans
Tahini
Cocoa powder
Espresso powder – optional but adds so much flavor!
Brown sugar or Maple syrup
Vanilla extract
Milk – or a milk alternative

Directions

Start by draining and rinsing a can of chickpeas.

In a food processor, combine the tahini and cocoa powder as well as espresso powder if using. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.

Add all the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth. Taste and add a little salt or more sweetener if you feel it needs it.

Tips & Substitutions

You can swap out the chickpeas for black beans to deepen the color and slightly change the flavor.
Use natural peanut butter instead of tahini for a more decadent and less traditional hummus.
In place of the dairy milk, use any milk alternative you prefer, like oat milk.

Serving Suggestions

Not sure what to serve with chocolate hummus? Try these ideas:

Fresh fruit like strawberries or sliced apples.
Store-bought cookies like graham crackers or vanilla wafers
Rice cakes – my personal favorite
Classic shortbread cookies

Whip up a batch of homemade chocolate hummus this week and satisfy a chocolate craving while still getting some protein and fiber. Enjoy!

Chocolate Hummus

a dessert version of the classic

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Keyword hummus

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings

Calories 368kcal

Author Emma Chapman

Ingredients

15 ounces chickpeas canned
⅓ cup tahini
¼ cup cocoa powder
½ teaspoon espresso powder optional
¼ cup brown sugar or maple syrup
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup milk

Instructions

Start by draining and rinsing a can of chickpeas.
In a food processor, combine the tahini and cocoa powder as well as espresso powder if using. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
Add all the remaining ingredients and blend until smooth.
Taste and add a little salt or more sweetener if you feel it needs it.

Notes

You can swap out the chickpeas for black beans to deepen the color and slightly change the flavor.

Use natural peanut butter instead of tahini for a more decadent and less traditional hummus.

In place of the dairy milk, use any milk alternative you prefer, like oat milk.

Nutrition

Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs

Emma Chapman — Sat, 05 Aug 2023 13:38:00 +0000

Did you know you can make hard boiled eggs in your air fryer? It’s true! While most people associate air fryers with savory dishes like chicken wings and fries, they can also be used to make perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs.

Find more great recipes in our air fryer archives.

Hard-boiled eggs are a versatile and nutritious snack packed with protein and essential vitamins. I love to add them to salads or a mini cheese plate for an easy dinner, but they are also wonderful as deviled eggs or egg salad. Yum!

Related: You can also make hard boiled eggs in the oven. So many options!

Ingredients & Equipment

Eggs
My favorite air fryer – it has two baskets

You may also want a bowl and ice to quickly cool the eggs once cooked for peeling.

Directions

Gently place the eggs in a single layer at the bottom of the air fryer basket.

Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Cook the eggs for 12-14 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your eggs and how done or soft you want the centers to be.

Once the cooking time is up, immediately transfer the eggs to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Fill a bowl with cold water and ice cubes.

Let the eggs sit in the ice water for at least 5 minutes. This step not only helps to cool the eggs but also aids in easy peeling.

Gently tap each egg on a hard surface to crack the shell, then roll it between your hands to loosen the shell. Start peeling from the larger end of the egg where the air pocket is, as it will make peeling easier.

Rinse the peeled eggs under cold water to remove any remaining shell fragments.

More Great Air Fryer Recipes

Using an air fryer to make hard-boiled eggs is a game-changer, providing convenience, efficiency, and a fail-safe method for perfectly cooked eggs every time. Enjoy!

Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs

The easiest way to hard boil eggs in an air fryer

Course Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, hard boiled eggs

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 14

Total Time 15

Servings

Calories 63kcal

Author Emma Chapman

Equipment

1 Air Fryer

Ingredients

12 eggs

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

Gently place the eggs in a single layer at the bottom of the air fryer basket.
Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Cook the eggs for 12-14 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, immediately transfer the eggs to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Fill a bowl with cold water and ice cubes. Let the eggs sit in the ice water for at least 5 minutes.
This step not only helps to cool the eggs but also aids in easy peeling.
Gently tap each egg on a hard surface to crack the shell, then roll it between your hands to loosen the shell.
Start peeling from the larger end of the egg where the air pocket is, as it will make peeling easier.
Rinse the peeled eggs under cold water to remove any remaining shell fragments.

Notes

The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your eggs and how done or soft you want the centers to be.

Nutrition

Air Fryer Zucchini

Emma Chapman — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 13:00:00 +0000

If you’re looking for a creative way to use up some of that summer zucchini, air fryer zucchini is the perfect solution.

This simple side dish combines the convenience and crispiness of an air fryer.

Let’s dive into the steps to achieve perfectly crispy and delicious air fryer zucchini every time. Or, check out all our air fryer recipes.

Related: Needing to use up summer zucchini? Try our Easy Zucchini Bread Recipe. It’s so good! Perfect for dessert or a sweeter breakfast option.

Ingredients

Zucchini
Olive oil
Italian bread crumbs
Salt and pepper

I like to sprinkle on some grated Parmesan cheese before serving, but this is optional.

Directions

To ensure the best results, choose fresh and firm zucchinis. Wash the zucchini thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry.

Slice the zucchini into thin, even pieces. Aim for slices that are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This thickness allows the zucchini to cook evenly and become crispy without turning mushy.

Place the sliced zucchini in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil to lightly coat the slices.

Toss the zucchini to ensure each slice is evenly coated with the oil. Then, toss in the bread crumbs and season with salt and pepper.

Arrange the seasoned zucchini pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, cook the zucchini in batches.

Air fry the zucchini at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. I usually just shake the air fryer basket well so all the pieces move around and don’t stick to the basket or each other.

The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the efficiency of your air fryer.