Backyard food has a simple job: keep people snacking, mingling, and enjoying themselves without the fuss of utensils or assigned seats. These 17 selections do exactly that—approachable, repeat-worthy, and always popular at a buffet. They don’t demand the spotlight, but they never go unnoticed. Even guests who claimed they were “just here for a drink” … Read more

This one‑pot creamy mushroom chicken and rice is a comforting, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and impossible not to love. Tender chicken, rice, caramelized mushrooms, sweet onions, garlic, thyme, and a touch of cream combine into a dish that feels both elegant and homey. The recipe works with raw chicken and rice cooked together, … Read more

Our beer battered cod is a simple, flavorful dinner that’s sure to become a favorite. Flaky cod filets are coated in a seasoned beer batter and fried until crisp and golden. This beer battered cod recipe is a perfect finish to a seafood-focused meal. Kimberly developed a batter that crisps beautifully while leaving the cod … Read more

You will love these jumbo cookies! This Almond Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe makes oversized cookies that are crisp at the edges and chewy in the center. It was bittersweet sending the last batch of homemade almond butter chocolate chip cookies to my son as he prepared to graduate from Indiana University. For eight years … Read more

Beef tenderloin is the dinner-world equivalent of a go-to pair of jeans—elegant, versatile, and always a good choice. This boneless, lean cut from the short loin is prized for its exceptional tenderness, so choosing the right sides will highlight its flavor without overpowering it. If you usually reach for the same few accompaniments, consider trying … Read more

Gevulde Speculaas koekjes (Dutch) — almond-filled spiced cookies — are a seasonal favorite for autumn and winter. A creamy, slightly sweet almond paste center is wrapped in spiced gingerbread-style dough and baked until crisp. The finished cookie is traditionally topped with a whole almond. These filled speculaas cookies are a Dutch holiday classic, especially enjoyed … Read more

Welcome to Weekend Potluck 717 — we’re so glad you could join us! This week’s featured recipes include Homemade Chicken and Dumplings, Easy Homemade Brownies, Creamy Lemon Chicken, and Salisbury Steak Texas Toast. Welcome to the Party! Here’s How It Works: Click any recipe photo below to visit the blogger’s post and get the full … Read more

These creamy chocolate-dipped blueberry clusters strike the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. Crisp on the outside and soft inside, they’re gluten-free and protein-packed. Think tart blueberries folded into smooth, blended cottage cheese with crunchy pecans, all coated in silky dark chocolate. I love this snack for its contrast of textures — the satisfying crack … Read more

Challah is a traditional Jewish bread enriched with eggs and a touch of sugar or honey, commonly enjoyed on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. I adapted my original fluffy challah to use a sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast, giving the loaf deeper, nuanced flavor while preserving a light, tender crumb. Even if you’re new to … Read more