Recipes

There’s something about the smell of apples sizzling in butter that pulls me right back to my childhood kitchen in Philly. Picture it: a chilly Saturday morning, windows fogged up from the warmth inside, and my mom humming along to the old radio in the corner while she worked a cast iron skillet like it was second nature. That aroma—sweet, buttery, with a good dose of cinnamon—was our unofficial wake-up call. We’d tumble out of bed like it was Christmas morning, knowing full well fried apples were on the stove.

Now, this fried apples recipe isn’t just food—it’s a memory. And if you’re here lookin’ for something that feels like a hug on a plate, this might be the thing. What I love most about this dish is how simple it is—just apples, butter, cinnamon, and sugar. But somehow, it always feels like more than the sum of its parts. It’s a bit like magic that way.

This one reminds me a little of an old fashioned fried apple recipe you’d find scribbled on an index card tucked in grandma’s cookbook. It’s not fancy, but boy, does it bring the comfort. And if you’re like me, always on the lookout for a fried apple recipe with brown sugar? Just sub out half the white sugar for brown—you’ll get that deep, almost caramel-like flavor that takes it up a notch.

We’d serve this alongside pancakes or over oatmeal, but let me tell ya, it’s also fantastic piled high on pork chops or spooned warm over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. And if you’re trying to keep things on the healthy side? Well, you can go light on the sugar, use coconut oil instead of butter, or even try honey as a swap.

Every time I make these, I think of how my Nonna used to keep things so simple in the kitchen—but man, her food could stop you in your tracks. She didn’t use measurements, just instinct and a whole lotta love. That’s what I hope you feel when you make this simple fried apple recipe—like someone’s right there with you, stirring the pan, telling stories about “back in the day.”

And hey, if you’re more into the whole apple crisp recipe vibe? Try adding a little oatmeal crumble on top and baking it for a few minutes in the oven. Instant shortcut crisp.

So whether you’re lookin’ for a fried apples recipe healthy spin or just tryin’ to bring a little Southern warmth to your kitchen, this one’s for you. Let the smell fill your home, and maybe—just maybe—it’ll take you back to a simpler time, too.

FAQs

How do you do fried apples?

Super easy—just melt some butter, stir in sugar and cinnamon, then toss in sliced apples and cook until they’re tender. It’s one of those no-fuss recipes that always hits.

What apples are best for frying?

Granny Smith is my go-to—nice and tart, holds its shape. But Honeycrisp or Fuji work great too if you want something sweeter.

Are fried apples healthy?

They can be, depending how you tweak it. Use less sugar, try coconut oil instead of butter, and skip the ice cream on top (or don’t—we’re not judging here).

Can you caramelize apples without sugar?

You bet. Apples have natural sugars, so if you cook ‘em low and slow with just a bit of water and cinnamon, they’ll soften and sweeten all on their own. Add a splash of apple juice if you want more flavor.

Fried Apples Recipe

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A simple and sweet Southern-style fried apples recipe made with cinnamon, sugar, and butter. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or spooned over pancakes.

• Author: Michael Carter
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert / Side
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

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½ cup butter

½ cup white sugar (or swap half for brown sugar for a deeper flavor)

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (or less, to taste)

4 Granny Smith apples – peeled, cored, and sliced

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the sugar and cinnamon until it all melts together into a sweet, cinnamony sauce.
3. Toss in the sliced apples and stir to coat them well.
4. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft but still hold their shape.
5. Serve warm, and if you’re feelin’ extra cozy, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or spoon it over pancakes.

Notes

• Wanna lighten it up? Use coconut oil and a drizzle of maple syrup instead of butter and sugar.
• If you’ve got leftovers, pop ‘em in the fridge and reheat in a skillet (or the microwave, no shame in that).
• Toss in a pinch of nutmeg for a little holiday flair.
• Let me know if you make it—drop a comment, leave a star, or tag me in your photos. I *love* seeing your kitchen stories.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 369kcal
• Sugar: 39g
• Sodium: 165mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 61mg

Alright, so picture this: it’s a chilly Sunday afternoon in South Philly. The Eagles game is humming low on the TV, Mom’s got Sinatra playing softly in the kitchen, and I’m sitting cross-legged on the linoleum floor, hands sticky with caramel, because guess what? We were making caramel popcorn. And not just any caramel popcorn – the kind that gets stuck in your molars in the best way, the kind that makes the whole house smell like toasted sugar and buttery hugs. That’s the kind of memory this caramel popcorn recipe brings back every single time I make it.

This recipe’s been passed around more than a casserole at a church potluck. It’s old-school, straight-up, no fancy tricks—just buttery, golden caramel clinging to every fluffy popped kernel like it was born to be there. It’s the one snack that showed up at every sleepover, movie night, and holiday gift tin growing up.

You know what makes this caramel popcorn recipe even more lovable? It’s easy. I mean, actually easy. Like, you-don’t-need-a-candy-thermometer easy. And if you’re the kinda person who’s trying to skip the corn syrup—hey, I got you. I’ve been testing a caramel popcorn recipe without corn syrup, and let me tell you, it still gets that deep, almost-toffee flavor and glossy finish you want.

Sometimes I just use three things—3 ingredient caramel popcorn, yep, it’s a thing—and it comes out so shockingly good that even my buddies from culinary school don’t believe I didn’t spend hours in a sugar-laced trance over the stove.

The texture is key here. You bake it low and slow so that caramel really sets and hugs the popcorn, getting that perfect crunch—not tooth-breaking, but crisp in a way that holds up even after a week in a tin (if it lasts that long).

I sometimes throw in a dash more salt for that salty-sweet fix. My Nonna used to sneak in chopped roasted peanuts for a little extra chew and crunch. That’s totally optional, but boy, it does give it a bit of Cracker Jack nostalgia.

And if you’re wondering if this is the best caramel popcorn recipe ever, well—I can’t speak for Gordon Ramsay (though now I’m curious…), but I can promise you it’s got the love, the crunch, and the golden hug that makes it feel like home.

FAQs

How to make caramel popcorn?

Pretty simple, really. Pop the corn, melt the butter and sugar into caramel, pour it on while mixing fast, then bake low and slow to crisp it up.

How do you add caramel sauce to popcorn?

You wanna pour it in a thin stream while stirring constantly. That way, every piece gets kissed by caramel. Don’t dump it all at once!

How does Gordon Ramsay make caramel popcorn?

No clue, but I imagine he yells at it until it crisps up perfectly. All jokes aside, he likely does a more fussy version with thermometers and technique. Mine? Pure comfort food.

Why put baking soda in caramel popcorn?

Ah, good question! Baking soda helps the caramel foam up—makes it airy and easier to coat the popcorn evenly. It’s kinda science-y, but trust me, it works.

Caramel Popcorn Recipe

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This caramel popcorn recipe is old-fashioned, buttery, and bakes to a crisp, sweet crunch—just like Mom used to make on cozy Philly afternoons.

• Author: Michael Carter
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 1 hr
• Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
• Yield: 5 quarts 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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5 quarts popped popcorn

1 cup butter

2 cups brown sugar

1/2 cup corn syrup (or substitute with honey for no corn syrup version)

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Place popcorn in a very large mixing bowl.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup (or honey), and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
3. Let boil without stirring for 4 minutes.
4. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and baking soda.
5. Immediately pour the caramel mixture over popcorn while stirring constantly.
6. Divide the coated popcorn between two large shallow baking pans.
7. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into pieces.

Notes

• If you’re after that chewy bite, bake for a little less time.
• Want crunch? Stick with the full hour.
• You can add roasted nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a tiny dash of cayenne for a sweet heat twist.
• Store in airtight tins for up to a week—if it lasts that long!

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 253kcal
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 24mg

Let me tell you something—there are mornings that just call for the smell of hot batter hitting a sizzling pan, ya know? And for me, that feeling—the kind that wraps around you like a thick flannel on a brisk Saturday—takes me right back to my mom’s tiny kitchen in South Philly. She wasn’t fancy about breakfast, but boy, could she make a mean pancake. And if she ever had Bisquick in the cupboard? Oh, game on.

That classic Bisquick pancake recipe has kinda become my go-to when I want something comforting without the whole ordeal. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it hits the spot just right. You only need four ingredients and about 20 minutes, which is barely enough time to finish your first cup of coffee. That little yellow box really earns its keep, and honestly, I’ve come to believe there’s some quiet magic tucked inside that mix.

Honestly, pancakes with Bisquick pancake mix ingredients like eggs, milk, and oil couldn’t be more unfussy. And guess what? You can even make a Bisquick pancake recipe with water if you’re outta milk—just swap it in, and while it might be a little less rich, it still works like a charm.

What I love most? These flapjacks are blank slates. Add bananas, toss in blueberries, grate some dark chocolate over the top—whatever suits your vibe that day.

The Bisquick pancake mix instructions are so simple, my nephew can make ’em. (And he once put the cereal box in the fridge, so… you get the idea.) One of my favorite tips? Use a quarter-cup measure to pour your batter and don’t flip those beauties until you see bubbles on the top. That’s when the real pancake magic happens.

These days, I still make this exact pancake recipe on weekends when I want to slow down. I even make extra and freeze them between waxed paper for weekday mornings. Reheat, drizzle some peanut butter and syrup on top, and you’ve got yourself a hug in food form.

FAQs

What ingredients do you need for Bisquick pancakes?

You just need 2 cups of Bisquick mix, 1 cup milk, 2 eggs, and 2 tablespoons of oil. That’s it. Doesn’t get much easier.

Is Bisquick pancake mix just add water?

Some boxed mixes are, but this one asks for eggs and milk. That said, yeah, you can use just water if needed—they’ll be thinner and less rich, but still totally edible.

How to make easy pancakes with 3 ingredients?

Mix Bisquick, milk (or water), and eggs. Skip the oil if you grease the griddle well. It’s still tasty, especially if you’re in a rush.

Why are my Bisquick pancakes not fluffy?

You might be flipping too soon or too often. Let those bubbles form first and only flip once. Also, check your batter—too runny and it won’t puff.

Bisquick Pancake Recipe

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These classic Bisquick pancakes are fluffy, golden, and comforting with just four ingredients and about 20 minutes start to finish. Perfect for lazy mornings or meal prepping ahead.

• Author: Michael Carter
• Prep Time: 15 min
• Cook Time: 5 min
• Total Time: 20 min
• Yield: 14 pancakes 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Griddle
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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2 cups Original Bisquick™ Baking Mix

1 cup milk

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 eggs

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Instructions

1. Grease or spray a griddle or skillet. Heat over medium-high or to 375°F. Surface is ready when drops of water dance.
2. Stir all ingredients until combined.
3. Pour slightly less than 1/4 cup batter onto hot surface.
4. Cook 1 minute 30 seconds or until edges are dry.
5. Flip and cook another 1 minute 30 seconds or until golden brown.

Notes

• Want thinner pancakes? Add a splash more milk, up to 1 1/3 cups.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for the best browning and crisp edges.
• Only flip once! Trust me, flipping back and forth ruins the texture.
• To keep pancakes warm, line a baking sheet with paper towels and hold them in a 200°F oven.
• Freeze extras between waxed paper, reheat in the microwave, and enjoy any day of the week.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 pancake
• Calories: 100kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 3.5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Let me tell you somethin’ — where I grew up in South Philly, if you didn’t have a good chicken cutlet recipe passed down from your mom, your aunt, or your Nonna, you were probably eatin’ too many hoagies and not enough Sunday dinners. These crispy Italian chicken cutlets? Yeah, they’re more than food. They’re memories on a plate.

I remember bein’ ten, standin’ on a wobbly stool in my Ma’s kitchen, tryin’ not to burn my fingers as I helped press breadcrumbs onto thin little chicken pieces. She’d always hum Sinatra while cookin’, and you just knew dinner was gonna be somethin’ special when the olive oil hit the pan and that sizzle filled the house. That smell? It’s locked into my brain forever — golden, garlicky, warm… kinda like a hug for your nose.

Fast forward a few years — culinary school, restaurant gigs, some burned pans, some applause — and I still come back to this dish. It’s one of those simple chicken cutlet recipes that just works every time. If someone ever asked me what’s the best chicken cutlet recipe I know? This is the one. Hands down.

For other comforting classics, check out my Bone Broth Recipe or indulge in the creamy goodness of this Crack Chicken Recipe.

I’m tellin’ you, what makes this easy chicken cutlet recipe in the oven or stove-top so reliable is in the little things. Pound your chicken good and thin. Don’t rush the breading — flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Not the other way around. And don’t skimp on the cheese in that egg bath — trust me, it makes all the difference.

Sometimes folks ask if these are healthy chicken cutlet recipes — and hey, I get it. You wanna keep things a bit lighter. I’ve done these in the oven before, too. Just lay ’em on a wire rack over a sheet pan, give ’em a spray of oil, and bake until crisp. Not quite the same sizzle, but still real tasty.

And let’s not forget the sauce game. You want chicken cutlet recipes with sauce? Marinara’s the classic move, especially if you’re turnin’ it into a sandwich. But one of my all-time faves? A lemony arugula salad plopped right on top. Fresh, zippy, and kinda feels like you’re eatin’ dinner in some little trattoria by the shore.

I like keepin’ a batch of these on hand, too. Make extras, pop ‘em in the fridge, and they’re just as good cold. And let’s be honest — late night, one of these straight from the fridge with a dab of hot sauce? Forget it. Midnight snack dreams.

FAQs

How to properly cook chicken cutlets?

Cook ‘em in a hot skillet with enough olive oil to get things sizzling. Don’t crowd the pan — give each piece space. Flip once the bottom’s golden brown, usually about 3–4 minutes per side.

What’s the secret to flavorful cutlets?

Season every step: the flour, the egg, the breadcrumbs, and the chicken. And add grated cheese to your egg mix — that’s Nonna-level wisdom right there.

Do you put egg or flour in chicken cutlets first?

Always start with the flour, then the egg, then the breadcrumbs. That’s the holy order. Flour helps the egg stick, the egg helps the crumbs stick.

What to make out of chicken cutlets?

Oof, where to start? Sandwiches, salads, cutlet parm, you name it. They’re like the Swiss army knife of the kitchen — crisp, meaty, and ready for anything.

Chicken Cutlet Recipe

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A classic Italian-American chicken cutlet recipe made with seasoned breadcrumbs, grated cheese, and pan-fried in olive oil for an extra crispy finish.

• Author: Michael Carter
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Fried
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

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3 cups homemade or panko breadcrumbs

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)

1 1/4 cups grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan, divided

Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

3 large eggs

1 tablespoon water

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

Extra virgin olive oil, for frying

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Instructions

1. In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, and 3/4 cup cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
2. In a second bowl, whisk eggs with remaining cheese, salt, pepper, and water.
3. In a third bowl, mix flour with salt and pepper.
4. Pound chicken slices to about 1/2-inch thickness using a mallet and season both sides.
5. Bread the chicken in this order: flour, egg, breadcrumbs. Press well to coat.
6. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown on both sides.
7. Drain on a wire rack and serve hot with lemon wedges or your favorite sauce.

Notes

• Let the breaded chicken rest 30 minutes before frying — helps that crispy shell stick.
• Use a fork instead of tongs while breading and frying. Trust me.
• If you’re baking instead of frying, spray with oil and bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.
• Try with arugula salad or make a killer cutlet sandwich with provolone and roasted peppers.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cutlet
• Calories: 489kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 792mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0.03g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 47g
• Cholesterol: 197mg

Let me tell you somethin’—the first time I tasted this crack chicken recipe, I was over at my buddy Joey’s place, and his wife served it on toasted buns like some sort of love letter to comfort food. One bite in and I nearly dropped the plate. Creamy, cheesy, smoky, and packed with that ranch kick we all secretly crave—it’s the kind of dish that makes your eyes close for a second longer than necessary. Yeah, it’s that kind of good. If you’re looking for something warm to sip while this simmers, I highly recommend my bone broth recipe—super simple and incredibly soothing.

Now, before we get too ahead of ourselves, I gotta say: there’s a reason folks call it crack chicken. I didn’t name it, alright? But I get it. It’s nothin’ fancy—just simple, hearty stuff that gets your taste buds dancin’ and your brain goin’ “wait, why is this so good?” It’s one of those dishes that practically hugs you from the inside. And believe me, as a kid growin’ up in a South Philly row home where dinner was the most sacred part of the day, that kinda food meant everything.

I like to keep it old-school and use chicken thighs for this one. Don’t get me wrong—breasts are fine, but thighs? They’ve got that juicy, rich flavor that stands up to the cream cheese and cheddar like a champ. We’re talkin’ full flavor, no dry bites, just the way Nonna would’ve liked it.

Now, if you’re lookin’ for an easy crack chicken recipe, it doesn’t get much simpler than this. Toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do its thing while you go about your day. The smell alone might stop your mailman in his tracks.

When it’s all cooked through—about 7 hours on low—you’ll shred that chicken right in the pot. No need for fancy tools. I just grab two forks and go to town. Then in goes the bacon (and not the wimpy kind either), followed by a big ol’ handful of shredded cheddar. Let it melt. Sprinkle on green onions if you’re feelin’ fancy.

And hey, you got options. Serve it over rice, stuff it into baked potatoes, or pile it high on a toasted roll. I’ve even scooped it up with crackers like a dip during game night. It’s one of those original crack chicken recipes that lets you do your own thing.

FAQs

What are the ingredients for crack chicken?

The basics? Chicken thighs, ranch seasoning mix, cream cheese, cooked bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions. That’s your flavor-packed dream team right there.

Why is it called crack chicken?Honestly?

Probably ‘cause it’s so dang addictive. That creamy, savory combo hits all the right spots. People try it once and go, “Wait, I need more of that.”

Do you put chicken broth in crack chicken?

You can, but I usually don’t. The chicken releases enough juices during the slow cooking, and the cream cheese adds all the creaminess you need.

What are the ingredients in crack chicken casserole?

Pretty much the same as regular crack chicken, but folks usually mix in pasta or rice, maybe even a little sour cream or extra cheese, and bake it in the oven till bubbly.

Crack Chicken Recipe

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Slow Cooker Crack Chicken is rich, creamy, and downright irresistible. Made with tender chicken thighs, cream cheese, cheddar, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon, it’s the kind of dish that keeps folks coming back for more.

• Author: Michael Carter
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
• Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooked
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs (trim off any extra fat)

1 oz. packet ranch seasoning mix

16 oz. cream cheese

8 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup sliced green onions

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Instructions

1. Place the chicken thighs into your slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the chicken.
3. Top with cream cheese.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 hours—don’t peek!
5. After 7 hours, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker using two forks.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon.
7. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar.
8. Cover again for about 10 minutes to let the cheese melt.
9. Garnish with green onions before serving.
10. Serve over rice, potatoes, buns, or enjoy as-is!

Notes

• You can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner bite, but I swear by thighs.
• Want a spicy twist? Add a diced jalapeño or use spicy ranch seasoning.
• Leftovers? Store ’em in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Great for meal prep or potlucks—just double the batch and you’re golden!

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 690kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 1102mg
• Fat: 53g
• Saturated Fat: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Protein: 44g
• Cholesterol: 275mg

Ok, so here’s the deal: I grew up in a kitchen where pots simmered all day long, the windows fogged up from steam, and the smell of beef bones roasting would cling to your clothes like perfume. My Nonna used to say you could tell how good the broth would be just by the way the bones smelled after a good roast—deep, caramelized, almost sweet.

Now look, I’m usually the guy making something sweet like Italian Cream Cake for a Sunday dinner or letting the Ninja Creami work its magic on a hot summer afternoon with something like this Ninja Creami recipe. But when the temps dip and the sniffles start making their rounds? This bone broth recipe is what I’m reaching for.

Every Sunday, without fail, there was a big ol’ pot of something bubbling away on the stove. Sometimes it was her minestrone, sometimes tomato sauce, but when the weather turned cold and folks started sniffling, it was bone broth. And let me tell you—she didn’t need to read a blog to know about bone broth benefits. She just knew it made people feel better. Simple as that.

These days, it seems like everybody’s talking about it—”best bone broth recipe,” “beef bone broth recipe,” “simple beef bone broth recipe,” you name it. But back then? It was just a way to make the most outta what you had: beef bones from the butcher, leftover veggies, and a whole lotta love.

What I love about this broth (besides how dang good it tastes) is how forgiving it is. No need for perfection. You toss in your beef bones—femur bones, oxtail, knuckles if you got ’em—and let time work its magic. Roasting ’em first? Yeah, that’s a must. That deep, golden color? That comes from those brown, toasty bits stuck to the pan. Scrape every last one into your pot.

You can cook this bone broth recipe in a stockpot, sure. But if you’re more into that hands-off life? Toss it in your slow cooker and let it bubble away overnight. And yeah, I’ve used the Instant Pot too—a total lifesaver when I forget to start it early (which, let’s be real, happens more than I’d like to admit).

And let’s talk flavor. Some folks try to get fancy and toss every veggie they’ve got into the pot. But listen, the best bone broth recipe? It’s about restraint. Carrots, onions, celery, garlic—done. Let the beef shine. That collagen-rich, golden magic needs space to do its thing.

I usually make a huge batch, cool it overnight, then skim the fat off the top. Some I keep in jars in the fridge for sipping, some goes into freezer bags for soup nights or to jazz up grains. It’s the kinda thing that just makes everything taste better.

FAQs

What should you not put in bone broth?

Skip cruciferous veggies like broccoli or cabbage. They turn bitter and overpower the broth. Same goes for starchy stuff like potatoes. And too many herbs? That can muddy things. Keep it simple.

What bones are best for bone broth?

A combo is king! Knuckles, joints, marrow bones, and a few meaty ones like oxtail or short ribs. Different bones bring different nutrients and flavors.

What is the proper way to make bone broth?

Blanch, roast, simmer, strain. That’s it. Blanching cleans ’em up, roasting builds flavor, simmering does the magic. And don’t rush it. Let it go low and slow for at least 12 hours.

What happens if I drink bone broth daily?

Honestly? Most folks say they feel better overall—maybe it’s the collagen, maybe it’s the ritual. Just make sure it fits your diet and you’re not relying on it for all your nutrition.

Bone Broth Recipe

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A rich and nourishing beef bone broth recipe made with roasted marrow bones, veggies, and spices, slow-simmered for deep flavor and gelatinous goodness. Perfect for sipping or as a soup base.

• Author: Michael Carter
• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 10 hours
• Total Time: 11 hours
• Yield: 24 cups 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmered
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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10 pounds beef bones (mix of marrow, oxtail, short ribs, knucklebones)

4 large carrots, chopped

2 medium onions, quartered

2 whole heads garlic, halved

6 celery stalks, cut into chunks

4 bay leaves

1/4 cup black peppercorns

4 whole star anise (optional)

2 cinnamon sticks (optional)

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Water to cover

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Instructions

1. Blanch the bones: Add bones to large pots, cover with water, and boil for 15-20 minutes. Drain and rinse.
2. Roast the bones and veggies: Place bones, carrots, onions, garlic, and celery in roasting pans. Roast at 450°F for 30-45 minutes, turning once.
3. Transfer to stockpots: Scrape everything into clean stockpots. Add spices, vinegar, and enough cold water to cover by an inch.
4. Bring to a boil: Cover and bring to a low boil.
5. Simmer: Lower heat and simmer with lid ajar for 12-24 hours. Skim foam occasionally and add water as needed.
6. Strain: Remove solids with a mesh strainer. For extra clarity, strain again through cheesecloth.
7. Cool and store: Let cool, skim fat, and store in jars. Keeps in fridge for 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.

Notes

• Ask your butcher to cut the bones—especially those big femurs.
• Always blanch beef bones first. It makes a huge difference.
• Roast until they’re nearly too brown. That’s where the flavor lives.
• Don’t overcrowd your pot. Use two if needed.
• Add salt after cooking. Taste and adjust to your liking.
• Drink it warm with a sprinkle of sea salt or use it in soups, grains, or sauces.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: approximate per 1-cup serving
• Calories: 45 kcal
• Protein: 11g

So, picture this: it’s mid-July, sticky as all get out, and I’m standing in front of the freezer, doing that thing where you open it just to feel something cold. You know the move. My mom used to catch me and shout from across the room, “Michael! You lettin’ all the cold out again!”

Anyway, one summer afternoon like that, my cousin Frankie comes over, lugging this futuristic-looking machine like he’d just pulled it outta a spaceship. “Bro, you need this Ninja Creami in your life,” he says. I raised an eyebrow. Seemed like a gimmick, right? Fast forward a few hours, and I’m eating some of the creamiest homemade vanilla ice cream I’ve ever tasted. I was sold. Hook, line, and sprinkles.

If you’re into cozy homemade sweets like I am, you might also wanna check out a few of my go-to banana treats:

• Easy Banana Cupcake Recipe
• Easy Moist Banana Cake Recipe with Oil
• Easy Banana Bundt Cake Recipe

Now, I’m not just sharing any recipe today—this here’s my go-to Ninja Creami vanilla base. It’s kinda magical because it only takes a handful of ingredients you probably already got in the fridge. It’s quick, it’s creamy, and it’s endlessly flexible. You can keep it classic or use it as your base for those 3 ingredient Ninja Creami recipes, protein ice cream twists, or just a straight-up sweet treat after dinner.

The star of the show here? Cream cheese. I know, sounds kinda weird, right? But lemme tell ya—it gives the ice cream that rich, dreamy texture you’re looking for. Even my lactose-intolerant buddy Rina swears by the dairy-free version. Oh, and if you’re like me and dabble with protein shakes, you can swap the milk with your favorite shake and boom: Ninja Creami protein ice cream.

I freeze mine for at least 3 hours—some folks say 24, but that feels like a lifetime when your sweet tooth’s calling. Just know, if it looks crumbly at first? Hit that re-spin. It’ll smooth out like butter on toast.

And hey, I’ve gotta say—this one’s a dream blank canvas. Add chocolate chips, a spoon of peanut butter, or crushed graham crackers. It handles it all. The best part? One pint. One person. No sharing required. (Don’t tell my niece I said that.)

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Ninja Creami?

For the classic vanilla base: cream cheese, sugar, heavy cream, whole milk (or alt milk), and vanilla extract. That’s it. No weird powders or thickeners here.

Why don’t we recommend the Ninja Creami?

Honestly, I do recommend it—for ice cream lovers who wanna play around with ingredients. But if you’re looking for traditional custard-style ice cream or big batches, this might not be your jam.

What is the best mix-in for Ninja Creami?

I’m a sucker for crushed Oreos or a swirl of peanut butter, but honestly? Mini pretzels. The salty crunch with sweet vanilla? Yes, please.

Do you really have to wait 24 hours for Ninja Creami?

Nope. I usually freeze mine for just 3 hours and it works great. If it’s not as smooth, just re-spin once or twice.

Ninja Creami Recipe

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A quick, creamy, and wildly customizable Ninja Creami vanilla ice cream base you can enjoy solo or jazzed up with your favorite mix-ins.

• Author: Michael Carter
• Prep Time: 1 minute
• Cook Time: 3 minutes
• Total Time: 4 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Churned
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1/2 ounce cream cheese

1/3 cup sugar

3/4 cup heavy cream

1 cup whole milk (or alt milk)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Microwave cream cheese with 1 tbsp of cream until softened.
2. Whisk in sugar until dissolved.
3. Slowly stir in the rest of the cream and milk.
4. Pour into Ninja Creami pint, seal, and freeze at least 3 hours.
5. Remove lid, insert pint into machine, and churn using ‘ice cream’ or ‘lite ice cream’ setting.
6. If crumbly, re-spin once or twice until smooth.
7. Add mix-ins if you like, using the ‘mix-in’ setting.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Don’t fill above the max line—trust me on this one.
• Re-spin until you like the texture.
• Mix-ins only go in after the first spin, never before.
• Enjoy within 2 days or freeze and treat it like a fresh batch next time.
• Got a favorite mix-in? Tell me in the comments!

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 235kcal
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 106mg
• Fat: 17g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Protein: 2g