Fall Favorites

Rich, cheesy, and full of flavor — this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna layers tender noodles, creamy sauce, spinach, and shredded chicken into a comforting baked dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

  • 3 cups pre-cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
  • 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
  • 1 (15–16 oz) jar Alfredo sauce
  • 8 cups shredded six-cheese blend
  • Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
  • 1 (13–14 oz) can spinach, drained

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the layers:
    • Bottom layer: Lay 3 lasagna noodles across the bottom of the pan. Spread a layer of Alfredo sauce over the noodles. Sprinkle about one-third of the shredded cheese blend and a light layer of Parmesan cheese. Add small pinches of spinach (about one-third of the can) and top with approximately 1 cup of chicken.
    • Middle layer: Repeat the same process with another 3 noodles, sauce, cheese, spinach, and chicken.
    • Top layer: Place the final 3 noodles, spread the remaining Alfredo sauce, and generously top with the rest of the shredded cheese blend and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
  3. Bake:
    Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  4. Serve:
    Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna!

Tip:
For added flavor, mix a dash of Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of garlic powder into the Alfredo sauce before layering. Fresh spinach can be substituted for canned if preferred.


MAC-N-BROC CHICKEN & CHEESE

Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor — this Mac-n-Broc Chicken & Cheese is a delicious twist on classic macaroni and cheese. Tender noodles, melty Colby Jack cheese, savory chicken, and broccoli come together for an easy, satisfying meal the whole family will love.


Ingredients

  • 1½ cups elbow noodles, cooked and drained
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can broccoli cheese soup
  • 2 cups of chopped frozen broccoli
  • 4 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
  • ¼ cup margarine (or butter)
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 cups of pre-cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
  • 1 tablespoon minced onion
  • ½ teaspoon minced garlic

Instructions

  1. Cook the broccoli:
    Place the chopped frozen broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl with a small amount of water. Microwave until tender, about 3–5 minutes, then drain.
  2. Cook the noodles:
    Prepare the elbow noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Combine ingredients:
    In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the cooked noodles, broccoli cheese soup, cooked broccoli, shredded Colby Jack cheese, margarine, milk, pre-cooked chicken, minced onion, and garlic. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  4. Heat through:
    Continue stirring over medium heat until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 5–7 minutes.
  5. Serve:
    Spoon into bowls and enjoy your warm, cheesy Mac-n-Broc Chicken & Cheese!

Tip:
For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes on top. To make it a baked version, transfer to a casserole dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.


EASY CHICKEN ALFREDO WITH BROCCOLI

Creamy, comforting, and effortlessly delicious — this Easy Chicken Alfredo combines tender noodles, savory chicken, and broccoli in a rich Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that tastes like a classic favorite.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups of pre-cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
  • 1½ cups elbow noodles, cooked and drained
  • 1 (15–16 oz) jar Alfredo sauce
  • 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon minced onion
  • ½ teaspoon minced garlic

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles:
    Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the broccoli:
    Steam or microwave the frozen broccoli until tender, then drain any excess liquid.
  3. Combine the ingredients:
    In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the cooked noodles, pre-cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, broccoli, minced onion, and garlic. Stir well to blend all ingredients.
  4. Heat through:
    Continue stirring over medium heat until the sauce is hot and the mixture is evenly coated, about 5–7 minutes.
  5. Serve:
    Spoon into bowls or plates and enjoy your creamy, flavorful Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli.

Tip:
For a touch of elegance, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley on top before serving. You can also use penne or fettuccine noodles for a more traditional presentation.


CLASSIC SPAGHETTI WITH GARLIC AND PARMESAN

Simple, satisfying, and timeless — this Classic Spaghetti with Garlic and Parmesan is a quick and flavorful dish that brings comfort to the table in minutes. Pair it with warm garlic rolls for a complete Italian-inspired meal.


Ingredients

  • ¼ package (or more, depending on family size) spaghetti noodles, cooked and drained
  • 1 (24 oz) jar traditional spaghetti sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package directions until tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the sauce:
    In a saucepan over medium heat, pour in the spaghetti sauce. Stir in the garlic salt and Parmesan cheese. Heat until warmed through, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Combine and serve:
    Pour the warm sauce over the cooked noodles and toss gently to coat.
  4. Garnish:
    Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired and serve with garlic rolls (see Garlic Rolls Recipe).

Tip:
For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce before heating.


EASY GARLIC ROLLS

Golden, buttery, and bursting with flavor — these Easy Garlic Rolls are the perfect companion to pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna. Made with crescent rolls and a few simple ingredients, they’re ready in minutes and always a crowd-pleaser.


Ingredients

  • 1 package of crescent rolls
  • 2 tablespoons margarine or butter, melted
  • ½ teaspoon garlic salt
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Set the oven to the temperature listed on the crescent roll package (typically 350–375°F / 175–190°C).
  2. Prepare the rolls:
    Unroll the crescent dough and separate into individual triangles. Brush each piece lightly with melted margarine or butter.
  3. Season:
    Sprinkle each triangle with garlic salt and Parmesan cheese. Roll up from the wide end to the tip, forming crescent shapes, and place them on a baking sheet.
  4. Bake:
    Bake according to the package directions, or until golden brown (usually 10–12 minutes).
  5. Serve:
    Remove from the oven and brush lightly with any remaining butter if desired. Serve warm alongside spaghetti or other pasta dishes.

Tip:
For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of dried parsley or Italian seasoning before baking.


HAM-N-CHEESY TATOS

Warm, hearty, and irresistibly cheesy — this Ham-n-Cheesy Tatos recipe brings together crispy hash browns, savory diced ham, and melted cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an easy weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

  • 1 (28–32 oz) bag Southwestern-style frozen hash browns
  • 1 package of diced ham (found in the lunch meat section near the bacon)
  • 8 cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the hash browns:
    In a large skillet, cook the hash browns according to the package directions until golden and slightly crispy.
  2. Add the ham and cheese:
    Transfer the cooked hash browns to a large saucepan or keep them in the skillet if large enough. Add the diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese.
  3. Melt and mix:
    Stir over medium-low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the ingredients are well combined.
  4. Serve:
    Spoon onto plates and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Ham-n-Cheesy Tatos!

Tip:
For extra flavor, sprinkle with black pepper or a dash of seasoned salt before serving. You can also top with chopped green onions or serve sour cream for a heartier meal.


CREAMY PUMPKIN SOUP

Smooth, rich, and subtly spiced — this Creamy Pumpkin Soup offers the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie in a warm, velvety bowl. Made in minutes with just a few ingredients, it’s a perfect cozy treat for cool autumn days.


Ingredients

  • 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin pie mix (seasoned according to package directions)
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
  • 1½ cups vanilla or plain yogurt

Instructions

  1. Combine ingredients:
    Add the pumpkin pie mix, evaporated milk, and yogurt to a blender.
  2. Blend:
    Blend on medium speed until smooth and creamy, reaching a thick, soupy consistency.
  3. Serve:
    Pour into bowls and serve warm or chilled, depending on preference. Enjoy your rich and comforting Pumpkin Soup!

Tip:
For a gourmet touch, sprinkle ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving. You can also swirl in a spoonful of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for added texture and presentation.


CLASSIC STUFFED PEPPERS

A timeless comfort dish made simple — these Classic Stuffed Peppers are filled with a hearty blend of seasoned ground beef and Spanish rice, then baked to perfection. Easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying, they make an impressive yet effortless main course.


Ingredients

  • Bell peppers — as many as desired (plan for one per guest)
  • 1 box Spanish rice mix (per 4 peppers)
  • 1 pound ground beef (per box of rice)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the rice and beef:
    Prepare the Spanish rice according to package directions.
    In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
  3. Prepare the peppers:
    Slice each bell pepper in half lengthwise (from top to bottom) to create two boat-shaped halves. Remove seeds and membranes.
  4. Assemble the filling:
    In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and beef. Stir until evenly mixed.
  5. Stuff the peppers:
    Spoon the rice and beef mixture into each pepper half, filling them generously.
  6. Wrap and bake:
    Individually wrap each stuffed pepper in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
    Bake for 1 hour, or until the peppers are tender and heated through.
  7. Serve:
    Let cool for about 5 minutes before unwrapping. Serve warm and enjoy your Classic Stuffed Peppers!

Tip:
For extra flavor, top the filling with shredded cheese before wrapping, or drizzle with tomato sauce before serving. These also reheat beautifully for meal prep or next-day lunches.


EASY CHEESE BREAD

A timeless comfort dish made simple — these Classic Stuffed Peppers are filled with a hearty blend of seasoned ground beef and Spanish rice, then baked to perfection. Easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying, they make an impressive yet effortless main course.


Ingredients

  • 4 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese (or sliced brick cheese)
  • 6–10 slices bread (use your preferred type — sandwich bread, French bread, or Italian loaf)
  • Mayonnaise, for spreading

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the bread:
    Arrange the slices of bread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Spread the mayonnaise:
    Using a butter knife, generously spread mayonnaise over the top of each slice — covering the surface evenly.
  4. Add the cheese:
    Sprinkle a thick layer of shredded mozzarella over each slice. If using block cheese, slice it thinly and lay it evenly across the bread.
  5. Bake:
    Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden around the edges.
  6. Cool and serve:
    Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, melty Cheese Bread!

Tip:
For added flavor, sprinkle garlic powder or Italian seasoning over the cheese before baking. This dish pairs wonderfully with lasagna, spaghetti, or any pasta dinner.


CLASSIC THREE-LAYER LASAGNA

Rich, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor — this Classic Three-Layer Lasagna is a simple yet delicious take on a timeless favorite. With layers of noodles, savory sauce, and plenty of melted mozzarella, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any family dinner.


Ingredients

  • 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
  • 1 (24–26 oz) jar mushroom spaghetti sauce
  • 2 (8-cup) packages shredded mozzarella cheese
  • (Optional: add 1 pound of cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken for a heartier version)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the noodles:
    Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Assemble the lasagna:
    • Bottom layer: Lay 3 noodles across the bottom of the pan. Spread a layer of spaghetti sauce over the noodles, then sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese.
    • Middle layer: Repeat with another 3 noodles, more sauce, and another layer of cheese.
    • Top layer: Add the remaining 3 noodles, spread the last of the sauce evenly, and top with all remaining mozzarella cheese.
  4. Bake:
    Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are golden brown.
  5. Cool and serve:
    Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your Classic Three-Layer Lasagna!

Tip:
For extra flavor, sprinkle Parmesan or Italian seasoning on the top layer before baking. Serve with garlic rolls or cheese bread for the ultimate pasta night.


OPEN-FACED TURKEY MELT (Old Army Favorite)

(Also affectionately known as “Sh—t on a Shingle”)

A hearty, comforting dish with a touch of military nostalgia — this Open-Faced Turkey Melt combines warm turkey in gravy, melted cheese, and golden grilled bread. It’s a quick, satisfying classic that has been loved by servicemen and home cooks alike for generations.


Ingredients

  • 2 slices of bread
  • 1 boxed package of sliced turkey in gravy (premade)
  • 1 slice yellow American cheese
  • Mustard, for topping
  • Margarine or butter, for spreading

Instructions

  1. Heat the turkey:
    Prepare the turkey and gravy according to the package directions (typically by microwaving). Keep warm.
  2. Prepare the bread:
    Spread margarine or butter on one side of each slice of bread.
  3. Assemble the sandwich:
    • Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Layer the cheese and slices of warm turkey on top.
    • Place the second slice of bread on top, butter-side up, forming a sandwich.
  4. Grill the sandwich:
    Cook until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and grill the other side until the cheese is melted and both sides are crisp and toasted.
  5. Finish and serve:
    Remove from the skillet, spread a thin layer of mustard on top, and spoon warm gravy over the sandwich. Serve immediately for a true comfort meal — Open-Faced Turkey Melt, an old Army favorite.

Tip:

For a more traditional, hearty version, serve the sandwich open-faced with mashed potatoes on the side and drizzle extra gravy over everything.


📜 A Bit of History

This dish earned its colorful nickname, “Sh—t on a Shingle,” during World War II, when it was a staple meal served in U.S. Army mess halls. Traditionally made with chipped beef and white gravy on toast, it became a symbol of simple, filling food that could feed many with minimal ingredients. Over time, variations like this turkey-and-gravy version have brought the classic into home kitchens — proving that even humble beginnings can inspire lasting comfort.


California Burrito

A warm, cheesy burrito loaded with seasoned steak or chicken, fresh peppers and tomatoes, creamy queso, guacamole, and sour cream. Quick, filling, and easy to customize.

Ingredients

Makes 4 burritos

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 lb steak or chicken, cooked and sliced or diced
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese
  • ½ cup queso cheese sauce
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced or thinly sliced
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup guacamole
  • Water, as needed for softening tortillas

Directions

  1. Soften the tortillas:
    Lightly sprinkle each tortilla with a few drops of water. Place one tortilla on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for about 10 seconds, or until warm and flexible.
  2. Add the filling:
    Place the diced peppers and tomatoes in the center of the tortilla. Top with the cooked steak or chicken.
  3. Add the cheese:
    Sprinkle with Mexican-blend cheese and drizzle with queso. Microwave for 30–60 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the filling is hot.
  4. Add the toppings:
    Spoon sour cream and guacamole over the warm filling.
  5. Roll the burrito:
    Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.
  6. Serve:
    Serve immediately while warm. Add extra queso, sour cream, or guacamole on the side, if desired.

Tip: For extra flavor and texture, place the finished burrito seam-side down in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden and crisp.