easy recipes

Name: Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder; 2 teaspoons of jalapeño juice; 2 teaspoons of jalapeños, minced; 1/3 cup of mayonnaise; 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon of paprika; 1/4 teaspoon of salt; 1/2 teaspoon of sugar; 1/2 teaspoon of cumin; 1 lb of cooked roasted chicken breast, sliced, divided; 3 slices of american cheese; 5 burrito-size flour tortillas; 2 1/2 cups of Cheddar & Monterey Jack shredded cheese, divided

Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla

July 3, 2025 by Rachel Leave a Comment

If you’ve ever found yourself craving a Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla, you’re not alone. And the good news is, you can now make it at home! This recipe brings all the bold, cheesy, slightly spicy flavor of the fast food favorite right to your own kitchen. With juicy seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and that signature creamy jalapeño sauce, this copycat quesadilla is surprisingly easy to make and totally satisfying. Whether you’re recreating a late-night snack or feeding the whole family, this is one recipe that’s sure to hit the spot.

Sure, there’s something nostalgic about a late-night Taco Bell drive-thru run. But let’s be honest, sometimes the craving hits and you really don’t want to change out of your pajamas, let alone leave the house. That’s where this Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla recipe comes in clutch. It’s quick, easy, and tastes just like the real thing. Maybe even better. Plus, you can make a whole batch for a fraction of the cost. Bonus? No one will judge you for eating two.

What you’ll need to make Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Quesadillas

To make these Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Quesadillas, you’ll need a few pantry staples, a couple fresh ingredients, and about an hour of your time. The real star of the show is the creamy jalapeño sauce. It’s a simple mix of mayo, spices, and minced jalapeños that brings that signature Taco Bell flavor to life. Add in roasted chicken breast, a blend of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and a few slices of American cheese for that gooey, melty center. Wrap it all up in burrito-sized flour tortillas and cook them to crispy perfection in the air fryer. These quesadillas are shockingly easy to make and deliver that familiar, cheesy goodness without ever leaving your kitchen.

Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

Yield: 5

Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla

Prep Time 30 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 1 hour

Ingredients

1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
2 teaspoons of jalapeño juice
2 teaspoons of jalapeños, minced
1/3 cup of mayonnaise
1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon of paprika
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of sugar
1/2 teaspoon of cumin
1 lb of cooked roasted chicken breast, sliced, divided
3 slices of american cheese
5 burrito-size flour tortillas
2 1/2 cups of Cheddar & Monterey Jack shredded cheese, divided

Instructions

INGREDIENTS:

Mix the mayonnaise, jalapeño, jalapeño juice, and spices together in a mixing bowl until sauce is combined.
Lay open one tortilla on a flat surface. Place half a cheese slice on one half of the tortilla long ways. Cover same side with 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
Place 5-6 slices of chicken on cheese.
Spread 1 tablespoon of sauce on opposite side of tortilla.
Fold tortilla closed and cut in half.
Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil and place halved quesadilla in basket. Lightly spray quesadilla with oil and cook on 370 for 3 mins, flip and cook for 2 minutes.
Repeat steps 2-5 per tortilla.
ENJOY!

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New Years Eve Charcuterie Board

December 30, 2024 by Rachel Leave a Comment

As the clock winds down on another year, it’s time to celebrate in style, and what better way to ring in the new year than with a festive and flavorful New Year’s Eve charcuterie board? Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or looking to add a touch of elegance to a larger celebration, a well-curated charcuterie spread offers something for everyone—salty, savory, sweet, and even a little bubbly. Packed with an array of gourmet cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, and artisanal crackers, this crowd-pleasing centerpiece is as beautiful as it is delicious. Get ready to impress your guests and set the stage for a sparkling start to the year ahead!

Cheers to a new year

As we say goodbye to the old year and welcome in the new, there’s something truly special about gathering with loved ones to celebrate the moments that matter. Whether it’s the laughter of friends, the warmth of family, or the joy of shared memories. The act of coming together creates an energy that can’t be replicated. And what better way to enhance that sense of connection than with a thoughtfully prepared New Year’s Eve charcuterie board? It’s more than just food—it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the flavors of the season, and enjoy the company of those around you.

As you nibble on delicious cheeses, cured meats, and sweet treats, you’ll find that the true joy of the evening lies elsewhere. In the conversations, laughter, and memories made with the people who matter most as you all ring in the possibilities of a brand new year.

What you’ll need to build a beautiful charcuterie board

To build the perfect New Years Eve charcuterie board, you’ll need a balanced mix of flavors, textures, and colors to delight your guests. Start with a variety of high-quality cheeses, from soft and creamy to sharp and tangy. Then add an assortment of cured meats for savory goodness. Fresh fruits, crunchy nuts, and artisanal crackers offer the ideal contrast. While a few sweet treats and maybe even a touch of sparkle with some bubbly will elevate the spread. With a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can create a deliciously festive centerpiece that’s as beautiful as it is tasty!

Here’s everything you’ll need:

a creamy brie
White Stilton with cranberries
Huntsman cheese double Gloucester and blue Stilton
Monterey Jack cheese
uncured salami or pepperoni
Prosciutto
local honey
Strawberry jam
Pecans
Toasted Almonds
gourmet crackers
Broccoli florets
olives
strawberries
grapes
Cranberries
Rosemary sprigs

A couple of optional items to have on hand:

New Years Eve Charcuterie Board

Yield: 4-6

New Years Eve Charcuterie Board

Prep Time 15 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

Cheeses
1/2 pound of Brie cheese, wedged
1/2 pound of White Stilton with cranberries
1/2 pound of Huntsman cheese double Gloucester and blue Stilton
1/4 pound of Monterey Jack cheese

Meats

3 ounces of uncured salami or pepperoni
3 ounces of Prosciutto

Dips

1/2 cup of local honey
1/2 cup of Strawberry jam

Nuts and crackers

1/2 cup of Pecans, halves
1/2 cup of Toasted Almonds
20-30 gourmet crackers

Fruits and Vegetables

1/2 cup of Broccoli florets
1/2 cup Olives, pitted w/ pimento
1/2 cup of Strawberries
1 cup of red Grapes

Garnish (Optional)

Cranberries
Rosemary sprigs

Instructions

INGREDIENTS

Prepare the cheeses for placement on your serving board. Place the cheeses on the board in random but separate spots. Use a pairing knife or cookie cutters to cut the letters out of slices of the Monterey Jack cheese.

Crumble portions of the cranberry Stilton cheese.
Fold the slices of pepperoni in half and stick a toothpick in it. Fill each toothpick with 3-4 slices and lay them across the board like a ribbon.
Place the letters on the pepperoni ribbon to spell happy new year (or whatever phrase you prefer!).
Add the dips to start filling in the board. Remember to try and keep like things separate.
Add the remaining ingredients throughout the board filling in the blank spots and keeping like foods separate as possible.
Finish by adding any decorative garnishes.
Serve and enjoy!

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Kids New Years Eve Charcuterie

December 17, 2024 by Rachel Leave a Comment

Looking for a fun and festive way to ring in the New Year with the little ones? A Kids New Year’s Eve Charcuterie Board is the perfect solution! Packed with kid-friendly snacks, colorful treats, and a variety of delicious finger foods, this easy-to-assemble spread will keep the kiddos entertained and satisfied while the countdown to midnight begins. Whether you’re hosting a family celebration or a small get-together, this creative board offers a playful twist on the traditional charcuterie—making it both a treat for the taste buds and a visual delight. Let’s dive into how to create a fun, festive, and kid-approved board that’s sure to be a hit!

Why make a kids charcuterie board?!

If you’re planning a New Year’s Eve celebration with kids, it’s essential to offer snacks that are both fun and delicious. The holidays can feel long for little ones. Having a variety of easy-to-eat treats helps to keep them happy and energized throughout this super long night. Having kid-friendly snacks helps keep the littles engaged in the celebration without being overwhelmed by having only adult-focused foods. A colorful spread of bite-sized snacks, sweet treats, and savory bites allows the kids to join in on the fun. And all while giving them a sense of inclusion in the festivities! Plus, having an assortment of treats can make the event feel extra special, setting the stage for a memorable New Year’s Eve!

What you’ll need for a NYE treat

The fun thing about charcuterie boards is that they can be customized with practically anything! In our house, we like to mix it up. If you’re just not sure where to start, here are some basic ideas:

pepperoni
cheddar cheese
string cheese
peanut butter
chocolate syrup
frosting
yogurt covered raisins
grapes
sliced bananas

cheese crackers
aspberries
strawberries
pretzel thins
BBQ sauce
chicken nuggets (I used chick-fil-a nuggets, but you can use any. If you want to try homemade, consider making these Copycat McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets)
chocolate chip bear crackers

To elevate your Kids New Year’s Eve Charcuterie Board, add playful garnishes and decorations like edible glitter, mini party hats, or colorful sprinkles. Fresh herbs, like mint or rosemary, can also add a festive touch while brightening up the board’s appearance, making it both visually appealing and fun for the kids!

Kids New Years Eve Charcuterie How-To

Yield: 6-8

Kids New Years Eve Charcuterie

Prep Time 20 minutes

Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

4 ounces of pepperoni slices
4 ounces of medium cheddar cheese
8 string cheese
1/2 cup of peanut butter
1/2 cup of chocolate syrup
1/2 cup of frosting
1/2 cup of yogurt covered raisins
1 cup of grapes
2-3 bananas
1 cup of cheese crackers
1 pint of raspberries
1 pint of strawberries
4 ounces of pretzel thins
1/2 cup of BBQ sauce
10-20 chicken nuggets
1/2 cup of chocolate chip bear crackers

Instructions

INGREDIENTS -

You will want to prepare the cheese and or fruit/vegetables for the board.
We cut the cheddar into small cubes and open the string cheese.
Using a shot glass, fold slices of pepperoni over the rim and overlapping the previous slice halfway.

Once you’ve added about 8-10 slices, flip it over and pull off the shot glass to expose the flower.
Peel and cut the banana into 1” bits.
Start by framing the board with the cheeses and dipping sauces.
Start adding the fruits and then the crackers.
Finally add the meats and fill any holes you may have.
Look over the board and make sure nothing of the same type is touching if possible.
Garnish with your choice of nuts, herbs, and decorations.

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Easy Christmas Charcuterie Board

December 6, 2024 by Rachel Leave a Comment

The holidays are the perfect time to gather with loved ones, and what better way to kick off a festive celebration than with a delicious, effortless, super easy Christmas Charcuterie board? This simple recipe brings together a colorful array of meats, cheeses, fruits, and festive touches that are as beautiful as they are tasty. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for an easy appetizer, this board is sure to impress without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. Here’s how to create a show-stopping spread that’s as easy as it is elegant!

Making memories over food

The holiday season is all about coming together with family and friends, creating memories, and enjoying the warmth of shared moments. There’s something truly special about gathering around a table filled with delicious food, and a beautifully arranged charcuterie board is the perfect way to bring people together. With its easy-to-assemble variety of meats, cheeses, fruits, and seasonal treats, a charcuterie board not only satisfies every palate but also adds a touch of festive elegance to any celebration. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a more formal affair!

Having a thoughtfully arranged spread makes every gathering feel even more special and memorable. Which is exactly what this time of year is about.

What you’ll need to make an easy Christmas Charcuterie Board

Imagine a beautiful arrangement of creamy Gouda, tangy goat cheese, and rich brie, paired with savory prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni. The vibrant pop of red from cranberries and strawberries, along with the refreshing crunch of mini cucumbers, create a festive look and taste. Complementing these flavors, toasted almonds and olives bring a savory contrast, while sweet strawberry jam offers a delightful balance.

A variety of crackers adds the perfect vehicle for all the delicious toppings, and sprigs of fresh rosemary give a touch of greenery and holiday aroma. Best of all, the possibilities are endless—feel free to mix and match different cheeses, meats, fruits, and nuts to create a board that’s uniquely your own. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging with loved ones, this spread is sure to impress.

In addition the items above, you’ll want to have a paring knife on hand, a small Christmas tree cookie cutter, and cute holiday toothpicks.

Easy Christmas Charcuterie Board Recipe

Yield: 8-10

Christmas Charcuterie Board

Prep Time 30 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

3.5 ounces of olives
1/2 cup of toasted almonds
6 strawberries
1/2 cup of raspberries
3 ounces of prosciutto
15 slices thin salami*
40 crackers (harvest wheat, classic buttercrisp, and rosemary and olive oil crackers)
3 ounces of spicy salami nuggets
4 ounces of honey goat cheese
8 ounces of smoked gouda
8 ounces of brie
2 ounces of pepperoni
3-4 mini cucumbers
Whole fresh cranberries
Strawberry jam
Fresh sprigs of rosemary

Tools

Christmas toothpicks
Small Christmas Tree cookie cutter

Instructions

You will want to prepare the cheese and or fruit/vegetables for the board.
We sliced the top of the Gouda wheel about 1/4” thick. Using a cookie cutter, cut the tree out of the center of the slice. Add a dollop of jam to the cheese wheel then replace the top slice back on.
Slice the cheddar into right triangles long ways.
Using a shot glass, fold slices of salami over the rim and overlapping the previous slice halfway.

Once you’ve added about 8-10 slices, flip it over and pull off the shot glass to expose the flower.
Cut zigzag lines into the cucumber just using the tip of a paring knife.
Cut the strawberries in half.
Start by framing the board with the cheeses.
Add the crackers and cups of nuts, olives, and dried fruit.
Start adding the other fruits and vegetables.
Finally add the meats.
Scan the board and make sure nothing of the same type is touching if possible.
Add the garish in and serve!

Notes

Salami is for roses, more or less as desired. Less salami makes a smaller rose, and more makes a larger one.

Christmas star toothpicks

Mini Christmas Tree cookie cutter

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Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

November 22, 2024 by Rachel Leave a Comment

Looking for a quick and easy way to make creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes? Look no further than your Instant Pot! This Instant Pot mashed potatoes recipe is a game changer. Perfectly fluffy, rich, and full of flavor, all in a fraction of the time it takes to make them the traditional way. Whether you’re preparing for a big holiday meal or just want a simple side dish, this recipe will save you time and hassle while delivering a delicious result every time. Let’s dive in!

Why use the Instant Pot?

Using an Instant Pot or pressure cooker to make mashed potatoes offers several key benefits. First and foremost, it drastically reduces cooking time. What would typically take 20-30 minutes on the stovetop can be done in just 10 minutes in the pressure cooker. The sealed environment helps retain moisture, resulting in perfectly tender potatoes every time. No need to constantly watch over them. Plus, the Instant Pot’s “set it and forget it” feature frees up your hands for other tasks. Which makes it a huge time-saver, especially when preparing for a large meal. The end result? Rich, creamy mashed potatoes with minimal effort and cleanup! A definite go-to method for busy cooks (or just busy moms!).

What you’ll need for this recipe

To make Instant Pot mashed potatoes, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. First, potatoes (any variety will work, but Yukon Golds are a favorite for their creamy texture). You’ll also need butter, milk, garlic, parsley, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need your trusty Instant Pot or pressure cooker to speed up the cooking process. That’s it! With these basic ingredients, you can create a delicious, hassle-free side dish in no time.

Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 7 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 22 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons of minced garlic
2 pounds of russet or yukon gold potatoes, cleaned
1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
3/4 cup of chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon of pepper
1 1/4 teaspoon of salt
4 tablespoons of butter
1/2 cup of milk
1/2 cup of sour cream

Instructions

INGREDIENTS

Peel and dice potatoes.
Place diced potatoes into instant pot. Pour in chicken broth.
Close instant pot by locking the lid in place. Make sure the steam valve is closed. Press the steam button and set it on this function for 7 minutes.
Using a towel or hot pad, release the steam valve manually for quick release.
Once the steam pressure has completely released, turn the lid to open the instant pot.
Drain the chicken stock from the instant pot using a colander over a bowl to save stock for later.
Pour in the remaining ingredients: butter, milk, sour cream, garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
Mash with potato masher until desired consistency is reached.
If you desire to thin the mashed potatoes more, add chicken stock little by little as needed.
Serve mashed potatoes with more butter and parsley as desired for your enjoyment.
ENJOY!

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Mason Jar Pancake Mix

November 21, 2024 by Rachel Leave a Comment

The holidays are all about giving thoughtful, meaningful gifts, and what better way to spread some cheer than with a homemade DIY pancake mix! This simple yet charming gift is easy to prepare. It can be quickly turned into a beautiful, personalized present for friends, family, or neighbors. Perfect for whether you’re looking for a last-minute gift or something to add a personal touch to your holiday celebrations. This DIY pancake mix is sure to delight. Just package it up with a cute note and a few basic ingredients, and you’ve got a delicious, giftable treat that everyone will love! This Mason Jar Pancake Mix is the perfect DIY gift this holiday season.

Gift giving from the heart and with purpose

Homemade gifts hold a special kind of magic because they show thoughtfulness, effort, and a personal touch that store-bought items often can’t match. When you create something with your own hands, you’re not just giving a physical object, but also sharing a piece of yourself—whether it’s your time, creativity, or care. This makes homemade gifts especially meaningful during the holidays, when the focus is on connection and creating memories. Whether it’s a jar of homemade pancake mix, a knitted scarf, or a batch of cookies, these personalized gifts convey love in a way that’s unique and heartfelt, making them the perfect way to make the season even more special for friends and family.

Homemade gifts are especially meaningful during the holidays because they show thoughtfulness and care in a way that store-bought items simply can’t replicate. When you take the time to create something with your own hands, it’s not just about the gift itself, but the love and effort behind it. This is particularly important for kids. It teaches them the value of giving and the joy that comes from making something for others. By involving children in crafting their own gifts, you’re helping them develop a deeper sense of empathy, creativity, and pride.

Children get to experience the joy of giving from the heart. Thus understanding that the thought and effort behind the gift matter more than the price tag. Homemade gifts allow children to participate in the spirit of the season. They building lasting memories and traditions that they’ll carry with them for years to come. It’s these kinds of thoughtful, hands-on moments that truly make the holidays special and meaningful.

What you’ll need to create this perfect DIY Gift

This Mason Jar Pancake Mix is perfect for several reasons. First, it involves only a few ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, sugar, and dry milk). Second, it can be made in large batches to give as several gifts. These can be bundled up in large Mason jars and given as Teacher gifts, office gifts, and so much more.

How to make Mason Jar Pancake Mix

Yield: 5 cups of mix

Mason Jar Pancake Mix

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

4 cups of flour
3/4 cup of nonfat dry milk
1/3 cup of sugar
2 tablespoons of baking powder
1 tablespoon of baking soda

Instructions

INGREDIENTS

Mix all the ingredients together in a mixing bowl.
Store in your favorite storage jar or gift it out in smaller jars!

Notes

To prepare mix for pancakes:

Mix 1 cup of mix with 3/4 cup of water to create batter.
1/4-1/2 cup of batter per pancake for desired size.