tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51390962524329532092024-03-12T19:15:26.516-07:00Whatcha Cooking Mom?**A wife and mom trying to get a healthful, economic, fast, and yummy dinner on the table.**Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-45182034902261484662010-06-07T17:41:00.000-07:002010-06-07T17:45:18.136-07:00Menu Plan MondayWe seem to be doing a lot of the same stuff nowadays. Grilled Burgers, Grilled Chicken, Grilled London Broil...lol. We sure do love to grill!<br /><br />Our Menu this week is....<br />Slow Cooker Chili Verde / Jazzed up Black Beans<br />Sun Dried Tomato Vinaigrette Marinade Grilled Chicken / Salad / Pasta Salad<br />Grilled Tenderloin / Roasted Potato / Brussels Sprouts<br />Frozen Pizza / Salad<br /><br />for more great menu idea check out www.orgjunkie.com<br /><br />PS I have TONS of recipes I'm working on posting. If only the day had a couple more hours in it.Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-2612404238719478362010-05-31T08:16:00.000-07:002010-05-31T08:26:12.426-07:00Menu Plan MondayLots 'O Grilling!<br /><br />Josh LOVES to grill so I take FULL advantage of this in grilling weather. It's so nice to get a break from having to slave over the stove. <br /><br />So, here is our menu this week...with lots 'O grilling!<br /><br />Grilled <a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/11/mushroom-swiss-burger.html">Mushroom Swiss burgers</a> / Grilled Potato Wedges / Salad<br />Slow cooker Chicken Tacos / Spanish Rice<br />Grilled <a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/11/salmon-fillets.html">Dill Salmon</a> / Garlic&Butter Rice / Salad<br />Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken / Baked Potato / Edamame<br /><a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/10/whats-for-dinnerhamburger-gravy.html">Hamburger Gravy over rice</a> / CornCooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-49570818197982085572010-05-16T20:59:00.000-07:002010-05-16T21:00:10.476-07:00Menu Plan MondayI've been away and boy have I paid for it. I've been lazy and haven't meal planned for the last two weeks and ya know what happened, there were a LOT of days I never got dinner on the table, lol. It was a reminder as to why I do plan out our meals. If I don't, we end up living on sandwiches. I also noticed my grocery bills were a lot higher because I was wandering around the store just picking up stuff here and there (and I was hungry...BIG MISTAKE). <br /><br />Ha,Ha,Ha!<br /><br />So, I'm back to planning.<br /><br />Here is what is on our agenda this week.<br /><br />Pasta with Tuna and Red Pepper / Italian Garlic Bread<br />Grilled Burgers / Roasted Potatoes / Vegi<br />Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken / Garlic&Butter Biscuit / Rice<br />Slow Cooker Pork Chops (Not sure how I'm going to do these yet) / Mashed Potato / Salad<br /><br />For more Menu ideas check out www.orgjunkie.comCooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-34906169756810407832010-04-26T16:11:00.000-07:002010-04-26T19:26:36.348-07:00Menu Plan MondayAnother Monday, another Meal Plan :o)<br /><br />Here is what is on the Cooley Menu this week.<br /><br />Grilled Hamburgers / Fruit / French Fries<br /><a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/10/whats-for-dinnerhamburger-gravy.html">Hamburger Gravy</a> over rice / Edamame <br /><a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/12/italian-smothered-steak.html">Italian Smothered Steak</a> / Salad<br />Grilled Chicken / Roasted Potato / Salad<br /><br />...and a predicament I was having. I haven't posted any new recipes because I have been doing such simple meals. I thought, "I don't need to post that spaghetti recipe, it's a total no-brainer to make.".. however, Josh informed me that even if they are simple recipes I should still include them in the, what will eventually be "family cookbook", because the boys won't know exactly how to make that super simple grilled chicken we do. So, I'll be back to posting recipes...even if they are super simple, non original, and to me a total no-brainer.<br /><br />For more great menu ideas check out www.orgjunkie.comCooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-57182531139902699112010-04-12T16:01:00.000-07:002010-04-12T16:13:06.899-07:00Menu Plan MondayAnother week, another meal plan :o)<br />This week seems to be full of meals I never got around to making.<br />Whats on the agenda this week...<br /><br />Shrimp Stir Fry / Rice (Didn't get to this last week)<br />Teriyaki Salmon Fillets / Roasted Potatoes / Vegi<br />Spaghetti and Meatballs / Salad<br />My night for family dinner night...Pulled Pork Sandwiches / Chips / Coleslaw / Fruit Salad<br /><a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/11/white-chicken-chili.html">White Chicken Chili</a> / Garlic Bread<br /><br />Wish me luck, hopefully I get all these made :o)<br /><br />For more great menu ideas visit...www.orgjunkie.comCooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-25936146979323619232010-04-11T17:15:00.000-07:002010-04-11T17:15:00.405-07:00Bacon Chili Crock Pot RoastI looooove to do roasts in the crock pot so I have a lot of different variations on the same method. This one is sooooo sooooo good. It's probably one of my families favorites. It's got a little kick because of the green chilis and the bacon gives it a smoky flavor. So Yummy!!!<br /><br />(I had helpers in the kitchen on this day, so I missed a lot of pictures, oops.)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4508798143/" title="IMG_1182 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4508798143_5d2d4c17c3.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="IMG_1182" /></a><br /><br />Whatcha Need...<br />Bacon, 4 slices crumbled<br />Beef Roast<br />Handful of baby carrots (Not pictured)<br />1 can green chilis<br />1/4 cup water (Not Pictured)<br />1/4 cup chili sauce<br />1 tbsp flour. (Not Pictured)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4509433472/" title="IMG_1173 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4509433472_cecd2971a3.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_1173" /></a><br /><br />Whatcha do with it...<br />Place Roast in crock pot and season with...McCormick Hamburger Seasoning, Salt, and Pepper.<br /><br />In a small bowl mix the can of chilis, water, chili sauce, and flour. Poor mixture over roast. Top with the cooked bacon and some carrots.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4508796325/" title="IMG_1175 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4508796325_89d41f2703.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="IMG_1175" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4509435068/" title="IMG_1178 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4509435068_b62745ee8a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_1178" /></a><br /><br /><br />Cook for 8-10 hours on low<br /><br />Viola, ya got dinner. PS. This makes an AWESOME gravy to put on top. So flavorful. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4508798931/" title="IMG_1188 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2002/4508798931_9b833d56cb.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_1188" /></a><br />We served with a quick bag salad and some apple slices.Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-49010756642803693572010-04-10T16:58:00.000-07:002010-04-10T17:28:59.035-07:00Tri-Tip SandwichesYummy tri-tip as a sandwich. This was a super easy dinner. All I had to do was roast the tri-tip in the oven and pull out a bag of chips and carrots. Viola, nothing could be easier.<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Need...</strong><br />Tri-Tip<br />Sandwich Buns<br />Seasoning for Tri-Tip was...McCormick Hamburger Seasoning, Little Olive oil rubbed on it, salt, pepper and garlic powder<br />(No pic, sorry)<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha do with it...</strong><br />Pre-Heat Oven to 425<br />Season Tri-Tip and place on a roasting pan. <br />Roast for one hour.<br /><br />When it comes out of the oven, it looks like this...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4480174195/" title="IMG6037 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4068/4480174195_04c946f7c3.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG6037" /></a><br /><br />Slice and put on sandwich buns. Top with whatever sandwich fixins you like. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4480174621/" title="IMG6040 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4480174621_479302ae88.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG6040" /></a>Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-85454131611300463462010-04-05T13:35:00.000-07:002010-04-05T13:39:23.469-07:00Menu Plan MondayAnother week, another meal plan. Quick meals are on my to do list this week and with the weather supposed to be nice also some BBQ :o)<br /><br />Shrimp Stir Fry / Rice<br />Crock Pot Roast / Salad / Mashed Potato<br />French Dip Sandwiches w/left over roast / Chips / Strawberries<br />Grilled Chicken / Tortellini Salad / Edamame<br /><br />I have a couple of recipes to post and I'm making it a goal to get it posted by the end of the week.<br /><br />For other meal plans check out...www.orgjunkie.comCooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-21259284502065496922010-04-01T07:56:00.000-07:002010-04-01T07:56:00.197-07:00Sloppy Joe Casserole over BiscuitThis is a really good Sloppy Joe recipe. It takes no time to throw together and it's got a little tang from the mustard and so much better than the canned sloppy joe sauce.<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Need...</strong><br />1 lb 93% ground beef<br />Onion, chopped (I use half)<br />Can of Condensed Chicken Gumbo Soup<br />Can of Condensed Tomato Soup<br />Mustard<br />Celery Seed<br />Worcestershire Sauce<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4480823382/" title="IMG6026 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4019/4480823382_c786258d8e.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG6026" /></a><br /><br /><br /><strong>Whatcha do with it..</strong><br />Brown Hamburger and onion <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4480172467/" title="IMG_6028 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4480172467_f69c2ee55d.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_6028" /></a><br /><br />Once Hamburger is browned add the Chicken Gumbo and Tomato Soup, about 1 Tbsp of Mustard and Worcestershire Sauce, and 1 tsp of celery seed. Bring to Boil and then drop temperature down to low and let simmer for about 10 minutes.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4480822498/" title="IMG_6029 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/4480822498_1d07432a4d.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_6029" /></a><br /><br />I really like to put it on biscuits, but anything works. <br />(I tried really hard to make this look pretty, but it's just not possible. So, don't let looks deceive you....it sure is good.)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4480822922/" title="IMG_6032 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4480822922_ab0f72c25b.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_6032" /></a>Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-91632956537989315532010-03-31T20:10:00.000-07:002010-03-31T20:25:37.864-07:00Menu Plan Monday (A little Late)LOL, I can't believe it's already Wednesday. I have been meaning to post my meal plan, but I just never got around to it. It must have something to do with having three kiddos under four. HA, HA, HA!<br /><br />So...here is the plan :o)<br /><br />Smoked Pork Chops / Rice / Vegi<br /><a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/12/super-easy-nachos.html">Chicken Cesar Roll-Up</a> / Chips<br />Teriyaki Salmon Fillets / Salad / Vegi (I'll post recipe)<br /><a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/12/super-easy-nachos.html">Super Easy Nachos</a><br />Easter Dinner is at my Mom's house and I'm bringing an ice cream cake from Cold Stone.<br /><br />For more menu plan ideas check out...www.orgjunkie.com!Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-88298243299581375242010-03-22T17:35:00.000-07:002010-03-23T16:47:03.008-07:00I'm baaaaaack! Meal Plan MondayAfter taking some time off from menu planning because of the addition of this handsome little fellow...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4450933739/" title="jj by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2729/4450933739_3944aff655.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="jj" /></a><br /><em><a href="http://joshvaljtjax.blogspot.com">http://joshvaljtjax.blogspot.com</a></em><br /><br />I'm back to meal planning and continuing this journey of completing a family cook book!<br /><br />I am so fortunate that for the first month and a half I had help from my wonderful family and they would come over and make meals, which we would all enjoy together. Paired with a lot of "fend for yourself" nights, a couple of dinners that we brought home, and some quick throw together meals we made it through the first two months.<br /><br />However, you can only get that kind of wonderful help for so long and I'm back to meal planning and cooking. Good thing is with Spring in full force here in Sacramento it's BBQ season (woop, woop!). We also decided since we all enjoyed those family dinners so much we are going to make Thursday nights a family night and we'll all go to my moms house for dinner. Thanks MOM!!! That's one more night that I don't have to cook! <br /><br />Here is what is on our Menu this week.<br /><br />Grilled Hamburgers / Baked Potato / Vegi<br /><a href="http://joshvaljtjax.blogspot.com/2010/03/jj-two-month-stats.html">Italian Smothered Steak</a> / Salad<br />Grilled London Broil / Cheddar Cheese Potatoes / Vegi or Salad<br /><a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/11/white-chicken-chili.html">White Chicken Chili</a><br /><br />For more menu plan ideas check out...www.orgjunkie.com!Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-80570336937795712452010-01-11T10:07:00.000-08:002010-01-11T18:19:13.162-08:00Meal Plan MondayStill no baby...Hmph. I know I can't really be too upset, it's not like I'm overdue or anything. My official due date isn't even until 1/26, but I just really really had a feeling that this little boy was going to meet us before 1/11.<br /><br />Oh well!<br /><br /><br />This is what I have planned for our family this week...<br /><br /><em>I usually plan on making four meals a week. Two nights a week we usually fend for ourselves and I always have a stock of frozen burritos, ramen, canned soup, sandwich fixins, frozen pizza, mac-n-cheese, hot dogs, chicken nuggets, or salad for us to choose from, and then one night a week is usually a left over night or if Josh and I are lucky we get out together.</em><br /><br />I'm very happy to report that groceries this week totaled $80. This is $20 under my weekly budget. Lol, not great...I know I can beat that, I'll try harder next week!!!<br /><br />Sloppy Joe Casserole over Biscuit / Vegi<br />Slow Cooker Pork Roast / Mashed Potato / Vegi<br />Tri-Tip Sandwiches / Chips<br />Chicken Soup / Some kind of Bread<br /><br />Check back in the week for recipes and for more menu planning ideas check out www.orgjunkie.comCooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-74962372149097329052010-01-10T10:52:00.000-08:002010-01-09T10:59:37.050-08:00Slow Cooker Onion Pork ChopsThis is a super duper easy meal and it's done in the crock pot so it takes NO time to prepare. The pork chops turn fork tender slow cooking all day and the juice makes a really nice gravy to put over chops.<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Need...</strong><br />Thick cut pork chops (I used three)<br />Lipton Onion Soup Packet<br />1/3 cup of water<br />Salt and Pepper<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4259404933/" title="IMG_0724 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4011/4259404933_2b0ac1ea91.jpg" width="500" height="281" alt="IMG_0724" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Whatcha do with it...</strong><br />Season Pork Chops with Salt and Pepper and place in slow cooker<br />Mix the Lipton Onion soup packet and 1/3 cup water together and poor over pork chops.<br />That's it!!!!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4259405719/" title="IMG_0726 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4259405719_6c458299c2.jpg" width="500" height="281" alt="IMG_0726" /></a><br /><br />Cook on low for 7-8 hours and viola ya have dinner!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4260162812/" title="IMG_0728 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2759/4260162812_76307828a2.jpg" width="500" height="281" alt="IMG_0728" /></a><br />(We served with good ole Stove Top stuffing and Corn)Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-5724535473975366802010-01-09T10:37:00.000-08:002010-01-09T11:05:28.676-08:00Eat from the Pantry ChallengeI'm jumping on board with some bloggers who are doing a pantry clean out.(Link Here... <a href="http://www.moneysavingmom.com/money_saving_mom/2009/12/eat-from-the-pantry-challenge-my-goals-and-plans-and-come-link-up-yours-too.html">Eat from the Pantry Challenge</a>.) It would be a good idea for me get our pantry and freezer down to nothing and restock. This will also help me save $$$ while I'm out with Jacob. The official pantry challenge is to spend 100$ for the entire month. I know I won't be able to do that (and I honestly don't know how others do it!) so I'm doing my own version of a pantry clean out which means using and planning with what I have on hand. <br /><br />I actually think I have enough meat in the freezer to last about two months, woo-hoo! My plan to stock the freezer while out with baby worked...and well, let's be honest as soon as JJ comes, cooking won't be top priority so the meat in the freezer may last even longer. I am really hoping to put the crock-pot in good use though so we aren't living on sandwiches for the next two months.<br /><br />When I go shopping on Sunday this week I'll report back how I did. If I report back, even if I'm the only one who will ever know, maybe I'll feel more accountable to actual do what I plan on doing.<br /><br />Here are a couple of photos of the pantry and freezers. I'll post pictures again after the challenge to see if I did good or bad.<br /><br />*Pantry Cupboard*<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4259408223/" title="IMG_0729 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4259408223_944d2ef68c.jpg" width="281" height="500" alt="IMG_0729" /></a><br /><br />*Indoor freezer, I usually stock this one with the quick go-to meals*<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4260164850/" title="IMG_0730 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2786/4260164850_518107b3cf.jpg" width="500" height="281" alt="IMG_0730" /></a><br /><br />*Outdoor Freezer, stocked with meat and poultry*<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4260165738/" title="IMG_0731 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2759/4260165738_153979de68.jpg" width="500" height="281" alt="IMG_0731" /></a>Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-28436934441921480292010-01-03T12:22:00.000-08:002010-01-09T11:42:50.365-08:00Meal Plan MondayOk, here it goes. I had to do some of my favorite spicy dishes this week, in case Baby Jacob decides to make his appearance. I usually try to eat pretty bland the first two weeks while I have a newborn in case they have a sensitive tummy and have gas. I don't want to add to their pain since I nurse my babies.<br /><br />The day we brought Justin home from the hospital our family ordered Round Table Pizza and I ate some pepperoni pizza and some garlic twists. My poor baby was up all night with stomach pains. I didn't know what the heck was going on since it was my first baby, but I soon realized that Justin had a sensitive stomach and I had to watch what I passing to him through my breast milk. Spicy food gave him the worst gas, as did garlic. It was a long 6 months before his stomach toughened up and I could eat spicy food again.<br /><br />The day we brought Jackson home from the hospital we ordered Subway, lol. I didn't want a repeat of Justin. Although, I would soon come to find that Jackson had a tough tummy from the beginning and I was able to eat whatever without much reaction from him. If I ate really acidic food he would act up a little, but nothing like my Bean.<br /><br />So, the fear of bringing home a baby with stomach issues is in the back of my head and I know that I may have to eat more bland if this little guy also has stomach sensitivities so I added some of my spicy favorites this week in case it's the last time I have them for awhile.<br /><br /><em>I usually plan on making four meals a week. Two nights a week we usually fend for ourselves and I always have a stock of frozen burritos, ramen, canned soup, sandwich fixins, frozen pizza, mac-n-cheese, hot dogs, chicken nuggets, or salad for us to choose from, and then one night a week is usually a left over night or if Josh and I are lucky we get out together.</em><br /><br />Pork Chops / Stuffing / Vegi (Didn't get to this last week.)<br />Chili <a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/10/my-chili-recipe.html">(Recipe Here)</a> / Cheese Bread <a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/11/cheese-bread.html">(Recipe Here)</a><br />Taco Dip <a href="http://thecooleyfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/10/taco-dip.html">(Recipe Here)</a><br />Complete Chicken Dinner in the Crock pot (<a href="http://eatathomecooks.com/2010/01/sunday-chicken-dinner-in-the-slow-cooker.html">Recipe Here</a>)<br /><br />Check back later in the week for recipes and for more ideas on meal planning visit www.orgjunkie.comCooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-66060364749898088842010-01-01T14:44:00.001-08:002010-01-01T14:57:17.203-08:00Chipped BeefThis is a meal from childhood. I can almost hear my dad say, "Oh, we're having Sh** on a shingle for dinner?" when the smell of this hits my nose. I'm not sure why the military folks call this Sh** on a shingle?!?! This is a really inexpensive meal to make. I mean really inexpensive. It has to be under 3$ for the entire meal. This is a comfort meal for me...it's creamy and full of flavor...the cayenne gives it a kick you don't really expect. I usually serve it over bisbuits, although traditonal recipes call for it to be served over toast (hence the shingle, I suppose.) I always make green peas to accompany it, because it's what my mom did and sometimes you just don't mess with a good thing!<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Need...</strong><br />2 tablespoons butter<br />2 tablespoons flour<br />2 cups warm milk<br />About 8 oz of beef. I usually buy the budding lunch meat.<br />1 pinch cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4234467757/" title="IMG_6008_2 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2675/4234467757_789e08ff89.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_6008_2" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Whatcha do with it...</strong><br />In a medium pan over low heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour all at once to form a roux. Whisk in milk, a little at a time, increase heat to medium-high, and cook, stirring, until thickened. Bring to a boil, stir in beef. Season with cayenne, salt, and pepper heat through and serve over biscuit.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4234466479/" title="IMG_6009 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4035/4234466479_da779fdd6e.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_6009" /></a><br /><br />Viola, there ya have it. Can easily be done in under 15 minutes!!!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4235241976/" title="IMG_6016 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4235241976_24de6ef3da.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_6016" /></a>Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-73500432448353676792009-12-31T10:55:00.000-08:002010-01-06T12:18:54.201-08:00Bruschetta ChickenThis is a really healthy and yummy chicken dinner. Marinating the chicken really gives it a lot of flavor and makes it really juicy. I can usually throw together this meal with ingredients I always have on hand and it's always done in about 30 minutes. It's tangy from the marinade, juicy from the tomatoes and the mozzarella cheese rounds out all the flavors nicely. I bet some fresh basil would be awesome on top of these, but I didn't have any on hand when I made these. I think next time I put this on our menu, I'll make sure to have some fresh basil for top though.<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Need...</strong><br />1 pkg of boneless, skinless, thin cut (cutlet) chicken breasts.<br />Sun-Dried Tomato Dressing<br />1 can diced tomatoes, undrained<br />Shredded Mozzarella Cheese <br />Italian seasoning (Not pictured)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4228347329/" title="IMG_6001_1 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4228347329_dc68f85741.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_6001_1" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Whatcha do with it...</strong><br />Marinate chicken in the sun-dried tomato dressing (the longer the better).<br /><br />Place chicken on grill to, season with an extra little Italian seasoning, and grill over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and grill for another 10 minutes.<br />Drop stove temp to medium low. <br />Add the diced tomatoes (with juice)and mozzarella cheese over chicken and cover with a foil tent until tomatoes are warmed through and mozzarella cheese is melted, about 10 minutes.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4228344985/" title="IMG_6002 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2693/4228344985_fc0a5a6755.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_6002" /></a><br /><br />Once everything is melted and tomatoes are warm...viola you have dinner!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4229112186/" title="IMG_6005 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4020/4229112186_a166f39519.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_6005" /></a><br />We served with Italian roasted potatoes and edamame.Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-22974797008331639382009-12-30T10:40:00.000-08:002009-12-30T12:48:22.269-08:00Slow Cooker White Bean and Ham SoupYummy and super inexpensive. I have to admit, it's not one of my favorite soups, but it sure is easy to make. The Cooley boys all love it, so I make it once or twice a winter.<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Need...</strong><br />1 lb of white beans (I always get Great Northern)<br />6-8 cups of water<br />2 ham steaks (I'll also use a ham hock)<br />1 onion, roughly chopped<br />(If I have carrots then I will put some carrots in this soup too)<br />Salt and pepper<br />Tabasco sauce<br />Italian Seasoning<br />(No pic of ingredients)<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha do with it...</strong><br />Ok it doesn't get easier than this.<br /><br />Soak beans overnight and remove any bad beans or dirt.<br /><br />Dump the beans, two cut up ham steaks, and onion into a crock pot. Cover with 6-8 cups of water. Season liberally with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Throw in a couple of dashes of Tabasco. The Tabasco really adds something to this soup. White beans and ham can be a little boring so seasoning the soup really well will make it something more than boring white beans and ham. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4228348109/" title="IMG_0670 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4228348109_569c407553.jpg" width="500" height="281" alt="IMG_0670" /></a><br /><br />Cook in crock pot on low for 8-10 hours and viola...ya have dinner!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4228348767/" title="IMG_0673 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2661/4228348767_56dcf21d73.jpg" width="500" height="281" alt="IMG_0673" /></a><br />(I was able to freeze 1/2 to have in freezer when baby comes home too!!!)Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-47818987249540183122009-12-28T10:27:00.000-08:002009-12-31T10:18:38.511-08:00Menu Plan MondayI'm officially on maternity leave from work now. I wish I could say that I'm inspired to make great meals at home and try all kinds of new dishes since I have more time, but it's the complete opposite. I'm super disinterested in the kitchen right now. I did manage to put together a menu plan, but I'm relying on our easy favorites. No looking up new recipes, I'm doing the easiest things possible.<br /><br /><em>I usually plan on making four meals a week. Two nights a week we usually fend for ourselves and I always have a stock of frozen burritos, ramen, canned soup, sandwich fixins, frozen pizza, mac-n-cheese, hot dogs, chicken nuggets, or salad for us to choose from, and then one night a week is usually a left over night or if Josh and I are lucky we get out together.</em><br /><br />Bruschetta Chicken / Potatoes / Vegi<br />Chipped Beef / Biscuit / Vegi<br />Slow Cooker Pork Chops / Stuffing / Salad<br />Baked Chicken / Bow-Tie Pasta (I still haven't gotten around to making this, but I have to do it this week before my cream cheese expires.)<br /><br />Check back in the week for recipes and to see more meal planning check out www.orgjunkie.comCooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-78523381341212956122009-12-21T20:18:00.000-08:002009-12-30T12:53:14.749-08:00Meal Plan MondayYawn***...This pregnancy is kicking my caboose. All I want to do is lay around. Even though Josh is wonderful and keeps telling me to relax, with two little boys running around it's just not possible. I know this is just the beginning too, pretty soon I'll be exhausted from the sleepless nights.<br /><br />I haven't been too excited to meal plan this week. Nothing sounds good to make and Jacob is at full capacity in the belly so anything I eat after about 5-6 bites I feel super full...the heartburn is outta control...I'm peeing like crazy...did I mention I just want to lay around and do nothing?!?!?!<br /><br />Thankfully, it's Christmas week so I don't have to be exactly super excited to meal plan since we'll be visiting family a lot this week.<br /><br />So, here is my not very exciting meal plan...<br />Check back later in the week for recipes...<br /><br />Slow Cooker White Bean and ham soup<br />Baked Chicken / Cream Cheese Pasta (added from last week, it didn't happen)<br />Slow Cooker Roast / Potatoes / Salad<br /><br />**Do you see a trend here? The 'ole crock pot is going to be getting a lot of use in the next couple of months. I am excited to try some new recipes in it :o) **<br /><br />Check out other Meal Plans at www.orgjunkie.comCooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-11969055140879363702009-12-19T15:31:00.001-08:002009-12-19T15:53:48.027-08:00Steakhouse PotatoThis is kind of like twice baked potatoes, but it doesn't take hardly any time to do. This is a favorite of Beans and Josh's. <br /><br /><strong>Whathca Need...</strong><br />3 Large Baking Potatoes<br />Grill Seasoning<br />1 Cup Cheese<br />1/4 cup Milk<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4198010399/" title="IMG_0632 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2637/4198010399_b677e20c15.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_0632" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4198765004/" title="IMG_0633 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4011/4198765004_d3d0a10bc5.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="IMG_0633" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Whatcha do with it...</strong><br />Pre-Heat oven to 425.<br />Clean and prick potatoes and put in microwave for 9 minutes <br />(No Picture)<br /><br />Cut the Potatoes in half and scoop out the inside, put in bowl (Just leave enough room on the side so you have a stable boat)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4198766504/" title="IMG_0635 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2791/4198766504_716323178a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_0635" /></a><br /><br />To the bowl with all the scooped potato filling mix in 1 Cup Cheese, 1/4 cup milk, and about 2 Tbsp of grill seasoning. Mix and mash together. (I know some butter added to this would be great, but I cut out calories where I can, so we omit the butter.)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4198767364/" title="IMG_0636 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2754/4198767364_91b4251064.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_0636" /></a> (Picture isn't great, sorry)<br /><br />Fill the potato boats and place on baking sheet<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4198768202/" title="IMG_0638 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2767/4198768202_f0b46c11fc.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_0638" /></a><br /><br />Season with a little more gill seasoning and top with a little extra cheese and bake in oven for 15-20 minutes. Viola ya have a super easy, not your run of the mill baked potato.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4198015365/" title="IMG_0639 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2526/4198015365_40dbe600b8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_0639" /></a><br /><br />We ate these with Beef Fillet and a spinch salad. Josh and I like to make our favorite steakhouse items at home. It's really nice to get out of the house and enjoy the atmosphere of steak houses, but for the most part we just make our house our own restaurant!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4198016209/" title="IMG_0643 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2792/4198016209_62ca0c6230.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_0643" /></a>Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-16511045072928864202009-12-14T08:00:00.000-08:002009-12-14T08:00:00.553-08:00Menu Plan MondayThis week marks my last full week at work before I go out on leave for the impending arrival of Jacob. This is what's on the Cooley menu this week.<br /><br />Beef Fillet / Salad or Vegi / Steakhouse Potato (I didn't get to this last week. I opted for Crock Pot Creamy Potato Soup instead.)<br />Spaghetti / Garlic Bread / Salad<br />Baked Chicken / Creamy Bow-Tie Pasta<br />Slow Cooker Pork Chop w/Stuffing / Vegi<br /><br />Check back later in the week for recipes<br />(Check out other menu plans at www.orgjunkie.com)Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-10313046120062687672009-12-13T17:13:00.000-08:002009-12-13T17:55:00.324-08:00Crock Pot Creamy Potato SoupI woke up on Saturday to a California winter day. Sky was filled with gray clouds, the rain was pouring, and it was cold. I knew I was going to have a really busy day and not get home until later in the evening. The thought of coming home to a steamy bowl of soup sounded perfect. I didn't have any meat defrosted and I was running low on groceries so I decided to make a super easy potato soup in the crock pot. Oh my goodness this was so good. It wasn't heavy like a chowder, but had a really nice creamy texture to it. The potatoes were hearty and tender. The next time I make this, which I'm sure will be soon, I'm going to add diced ham or bacon to it though, that would have made it a A+, it was a A- without it.<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Need...</strong><br />8 medium size baking potatoes, chopped roughly (I left the skins on for added vitamins)<br />1 Medium Onion, chopped roughly<br />2 Tbsp Butter<br />Chicken Stock/Broth. I used what I had on hand, it totaled to about 5 cups<br />2 Cups of Milk<br />1/2 cup flour<br />2 Cup Shredded Cheese (Not pictured, I added it spur of the moment.)<br />Seasoning...Salt, Pepper, Thyme and Nutmeg<br /><a title="IMG_5952 by Vmuters, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4183481564/"><img alt="IMG_5952" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2677/4183481564_f891674104.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a><br />(2nd Part to make soup)<br /><a title="IMG_5958 by Vmuters, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4183483532/"><img alt="IMG_5958" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4183483532_bb50f2a51e.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br /><br /><strong>Whatcha do with it...</strong><br />In a crock pot mix the chopped Potato, Onion, 2 TBSP butter, and Chicken Broth/Stock.<br />Cook on low for 8 hours<br /><a title="IMG_5954 by Vmuters, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4183482558/"><img alt="IMG_5954" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4005/4183482558_3b03db9eea.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a><br /><br />About an hour before you want to eat mix the flour and milk together. (Make sure it's mixed really really good. You don't want any flour lumps. The easiest way I know to do this is to put it in a Tupperware and shake it really good.)<br /><br />Add the Milk/flour mixture, 2 Cups of cheese, and seasonings (don't be shy with the seasonings...it needs it) to crock pot and turn to high. The soup will thicken up and become creamy. Viola....you have yourself dinner.<br /><br />This picture just doesn't do this soup justice, it really is super super good. Because it's mainly made with chicken stock/broth it's not really bad for your either.<br /><a title="IMG_5961 by Vmuters, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4183484656/"><img alt="IMG_5961" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2525/4183484656_3ea50ccc4f.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a>Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-7714617443635441642009-12-12T08:47:00.001-08:002009-12-12T09:13:13.062-08:00Super Easy NachosMy favorite kind of food is Mexican. I've noticed we usually have something that is Mexican every other week. It probably has a lot to do with the spiciness, I love spicy food.<br /><br />Nachos bring me back to when Josh and I were first married, it's probably one of the only things we made that we considered "Cooking" way back when. Now I consider Nachos a quick dinner to throw together when I'm tired or need something done in under 20 minutes. I'm sure 9 years ago it probably took Josh and I over 40 minutes to make nachos with our broken oven that never really got to the temperature that we set it too, overcooking ground beef, and just not being as organized in the kitchen. Those were some fun days...<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Need...</strong><br />(Sorry no pic of ingredients)<br />3/4 lb of 98% lean ground hamburger<br />1 can of pinto beans, drained<br />1 really small can of sliced olives, drained<br />1/2 diced red onion<br />1 2cp bag of Mexican shredded cheese<br />Taco Seasoning<br />Nacho Toppings of Choice...<br />Jalapeno, Sour Cream, Salsa<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Do with it...</strong><br />(Again, sorry no pics, I was in a hurry to get dinner done.)<br />Pre-Heat oven to 450 degrees<br />While oven is heating brown hamburger with Taco Seasoning, add 2 tbsp of water to meat to get the seasoning incorrporated.<br /><br />Spread chips on a baking sheet lined with foil, sprinkle one half bag of cheese over Nacho chips.<br /><br />Spread cooked ground meat and drained pinto beans over Chips and top with remaining cheese.<br /><br />Sprinkle diced onion and olives on top of cheese<br /><br />Pop into oven for about 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and...<br />Viola top with your favorite toppings and you have a super easy and quick dinner ready in no time.<br /><a title="IMG_5946_1 by Vmuters, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4179308688/"><img alt="IMG_5946_1" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4179308688_24f7b8ef56.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a>Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5139096252432953209.post-52255201461500661842009-12-08T08:56:00.000-08:002009-12-08T08:56:00.231-08:00BBQ Chicken PizzaI have a friend who loves BBQ chicken Pizza and I always wanted to try it, but never had the guts to order it. I have a weird thing, which I totally blame on my mom, but I don't eat chicken I haven't cooked. This fear of chicken cooked outside my home comes from my mom...it would take a long time to explain, I probably need therapy over it, and it really deserves a post of it's own. To make a really long story short, I would never order BBQ chicken pizza in a restaurant.<br /><br />But I did try it once!!!! A friend ordered it and I took a slice and LOVED the taste, but couldn't eat a lot of it because of the fear of chicken cooked outside my home.<br /><br />Am I rambling? So...this is why I tried this recipe. I already knew I liked the taste and flavor of BBQ chicken pizza, but knew it was never going to make it's way to my dinner table unless I made it myself. I came across this super easy and quick version and it has since become a family favorite. Having two small toddlers, pizza is always a good thing. It's tangy, meaty, has a little heat from the onion and just oozes with goodness. It's super easy, super cheap (of course!), and healthful.<br /><br /><strong>Whatcha Need...</strong><br />1 small package of chicken breast cutlets (you want them really thin...I think a lot of recipes call for Chicken Tenders, but those are also part of my chicken fear so I don't buy them.)<br />1 pillsburry Pizza dough<br />BBQ sauce<br />2 cup bag of mozzarella cheese<br />1/2 red onion, diced really small<br />Couple of slices of crumbled Bacon (I will either use the already cooked bacon you pop into the microwave or bacon bits...tonight it was bacon bits that we had on hand.)<br />Salt, Pepper and McCormick Steak seasoning<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4168391374/" title="IMG_5923 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2673/4168391374_d36a2538aa.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_5923" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Whatcha do with it...</strong><br />I make the pizza dough according to "crispy" directions which means you preheat oven to 400 for a nonstick pan, place pizza dough on cookie sheet with NO toppings, and cook for 8 minutes...this is a great time to cook the chicken.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4168391808/" title="IMG_5924 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2640/4168391808_15bea947f6.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_5924" /></a><br /><br />Cook chicken on grill top, season with salt pepper and steak seasoning. Cook about 5 min on each side. Pull off grill top. Slice two or three chicken breasts and save the rest.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4168392254/" title="IMG_5928 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2622/4168392254_3aaed624a0.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_5928" /></a><br />(Left over chicken is great for fend for yourself night. I a lot of times will put it in a salad.)<br /><br />Pizza dough should be done, so pull it out of oven and top with...<br />BBQ sauce...use as much as you like. I usually use about 1/2 cup.<br />Sliced Chicken<br />Mozzarella Cheese, however much you like.<br />Diced red onion<br />Bacon Bits, just sprinkled over top.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4167630517/" title="IMG_5930 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2734/4167630517_214c6be762.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_5930" /></a><br /><br />Put pizza back into oven for 8-10 minutes and pull out...<br />Viola ya got dinner...we serve with a green salad.<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/41971520@N02/4167631579/" title="IMG_5933 by Vmuters, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2686/4167631579_bd60479766.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_5933" /></a>Cooley'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15802288323798354346noreply@blogger.com1