Broccoli Potato Soup

Soup season is upon us as the days get shorter and the weather becomes chillier. A cup of hot Broccoli Potato Soup is the perfect way to warm yourself on chilly winter nights. This nutrient-and flavor-packed soup calls to mind the warm bowls of grandma's cooking while updating the recipe for today. Let's get down to business with the recipe and a few pointers to help you become a better soup maker.

What about the healthiness of Grandma's soups?

Yeah, I totally think so! A tasty and healthy spin on classic southern soups, Broccoli Potato Soup is packed with iron, calcium, vitamins A and C, and a savory potato base. Also, if you don't have gluten, you can simply make this broccoli cheese soup gluten-free by using gluten-free all-purpose flour.

How Is This Healthy Frozen Soup, Broccoli Potato Soup, Compared to Others?

You get to choose the ingredients as you whip up this dish in your own kitchen. There are healthful frozen soups on the market, but they often include a lot of salt and preservatives. This homemade soup has much less of both. A nutritious and handy solution for days when you're on the go, plus it's simple to freeze for later.

The ezoic

Why Is This Soup So Delicious in the South?

Soul food soups aren't only hearty and potato and broccoli-based; when you add cheese deliciousness to the mix, you get something more complicated than just a plain old home soup. The addition of a little bacon transforms it into a culinary kaleidoscope.

Need to Find a Local Source for Potato Bacon Soup?

With this delicious Broccoli Potato Soup recipe, there's no need to eat out. For a fresh take on the classic "potato bacon soup near me," try this recipe with bacon for an added umami taste.

Is it Possible to Add Bone Broth to Broccoli Potato Soup?

Sure thing! This Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect for you if you love the greatest recipes for soups made with bone broth. For a more flavorful and nutritious alternative, use bone broth instead of chicken or vegetable.

Idahoan Loaded Baked Potato Soup: How Does It Measure Up?

By adding potatoes, this Broccoli Potato Soup resembles an Idahoan loaded baked potato soup, but with the addition of broccoli and carrots, it becomes a healthier version. Regarding taste and health benefits, it's an improvement.

Can We Call This Soup Little Soup?

If you're thinking of thin, brothy soups when you hear the phrase "little soup," you'd be mistaken. Though hearty, this Broccoli Potato Soup may be thinned down to suit your "little soup" needs by increasing the amount of broth or milk.

How Can I Eliminate Gluten from This Soup?

No problem! To make delicious gluten-free broccoli cheddar soup, just use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour and check that your broth is gluten-free. Before using any pre-packaged items, be sure to read the label.

Broccoli Potato Soup is perfect whether you're looking for a comforting dish reminiscent of grandma's cooking, a new favorite soul food, or just a filling and healthy dinner. I hope you like cooking!

What You Need: Two cans of 14.5 oz of vegetable or chicken broth with little sodium

2–3 big carrots, chopped

potatoes, four medium-sized, peeled and cubed

2 little broccoli spears, coarsely chopped

1 teaspoon of powdered onion

1/3 cup of purpose-built flour

three tablespoons of unsalted butter

3 and a half cups of milk plus more as needed

a teaspoon of salt

For garnish, you may add an additional 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

garlic pepper, measuring half a teaspoon

6 pieces of cooked and diced bacon

Instructions

Put a big saucepan over medium-high heat and start cooking. Cook the potatoes, carrots, chicken stock, and onion powder in a saucepan. Before turning the heat down to medium-low, bring the ingredients to a rolling boil.

Simmer, covered, for about 10 minutes, until the veggies are tender.

Return the lid to the saucepan and stir in the chopped broccoli. Simmer for a further ten minutes.

Get the cheese sauce ready while the veggies are boiling in the pot. Put the butter in a separate pan and melt it over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour slowly while cooking for about one minute, or until it becomes a golden brown color.

Assist with whisking in the milk gradually. In about 5 minutes, or when the sauce begins to thicken, increase the heat to medium and whisk constantly.

Melt the shredded cheddar cheese by adding it to the sauce and tossing it in. Garlic pepper and salt should be added now.

After the vegetables have simmered, stir in the cheese sauce until well combined.

Add more milk to make the soup the consistency you want if you want it thinner. It may be necessary to add more salt and garlic pepper based on your taste evaluation.

Chopped bacon and more cheese, if you so wish, may be added as a final touch.

Notes

Personalize the Gradient: Substitute heavy cream or half-and-half for milk for a very creamy texture. Thin it up with more broth or water if you like a thinner consi

 

Apple butter cookies

 

Ingredients:

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 

– ½ tsp baking soda

– ½ tsp cinnamon

– ¼ tsp salt 

– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 

– ½ cup brown sugar

– ¼ cup granulated sugar

– 1 egg 

– ½ cup apple butter 

– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: 350°F (175°C) .

2. Mix Ingredients: Cream butter and sugars, then add egg, apple butter, and vanilla. Fold in dry ingredients.

3. Bake: Spoon onto baking sheet and bake 10-12 mins until edges are golden.

Prep Time: 10 mins | Bake Time: 12 mins | Total Time: 22 mins | Servings: 20 cookies

Butterfinger Balls

 If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, indulgent, and delicious, Butterfinger Balls are the perfect treat. This no-bake recipe combines the beloved crunch of Butterfinger candy bars with creamy, rich chocolate, making it an instant favorite. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up these bite-sized delights for any occasion. Perfect for parties, holidays, or even as a midday snack, Butterfinger Balls are as versatile as they are tasty.

Butterfinger Balls are celebrated for their unique texture, blending the familiar crunch of Butterfinger candy with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth interior. As a no-bake dessert, they offer an easy and time-saving alternative to traditional treats. Not only are they deliciously satisfying, but they also serve as a great way to experiment with flavors, like adding peanut butter or extra chocolate sprinkles for a personal touch.

Ingredients Overview

To make Butterfinger Balls, gather these simple ingredients, each essential for the perfect texture and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Butterfinger Candy Bars: Roughly 16 fun-sized bars provide the distinctive crunch and caramelized flavor in each bite. For easy preparation, crush these into small, even pieces.
• Cream Cheese: An 8-ounce block, softened to room temperature, gives the filling its creamy consistency. The cream cheese also helps bind the ingredients, holding the balls together beautifully.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: For a rich chocolate coating, you’ll need 2 cups of chocolate chips. Melted, these will encase the Butterfinger Balls in a smooth layer of chocolate. For tips on chocolate preparation, check out chocolate melting techniques.
• Vegetable Shortening (optional): Adding 1 tablespoon of shortening to the melted chocolate can enhance its smoothness, making it easier to coat the balls evenly.
• Optional Toppings: You can decorate the finished balls with Butterfinger crumbs, chocolate sprinkles, or even edible glitter for an extra visual appeal.

For a twist, try swapping Butterfingers with other candy bars like Snickers or Reese’s to change the flavor profile while keeping the process simple and fun.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Butterfinger Balls is a straightforward process, with just a few simple steps to follow for delicious results.

1. Crush Butterfinger Candy Bars
Start by finely crushing about 16 fun-sized Butterfinger candy bars. This is essential for achieving a consistent texture in each bite. You can crush the bars in several ways:

• Place them in a plastic bag and use a rolling pin to break them down.
• For a quicker option, pulse the bars briefly in a food processor. Ensure the pieces aren’t too large, as they might make the mixture difficult to shape. The goal is a mix of fine crumbs with tiny candy chunks for that iconic crunch.

2. Mix the Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crushed Butterfinger pieces. Use a spatula or hand mixer to blend thoroughly, creating a smooth mixture. The cream cheese serves as a perfect binding agent, giving each ball a luscious, creamy consistency.

Next, add in powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs (if desired), which help add structure to the filling. For a peanut butter twist, consider adding a tablespoon or two of peanut butter, which pairs well with the Butterfinger flavor. When fully mixed, you should have a sticky but moldable filling.

Tip: For an even smoother blend, let the cream cheese reach room temperature before mixing.

3. Form and Chill the Balls
With the filling ready, it’s time to shape it into balls. Scoop about a tablespoon of mixture, rolling it between your palms to form 1-inch balls. Aim for uniformity to ensure even dipping and setting.

Arrange the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all balls are shaped, place them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it firms up the filling, making it easier to dip in melted chocolate. Skipping this step can lead to messy, uneven coatings, so be sure to chill thoroughly.

Quick Tip: Lightly grease your hands with a small amount of vegetable oil to prevent the mixture from sticking.

4. Melt Chocolate and Dip the Balls
Using a microwave or stovetop, melt 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Adding a tablespoon of vegetable shortening can improve the chocolate’s texture, creating a smoother, shinier finish. If using the microwave, melt in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to avoid burning.

Once melted, dip each chilled ball into the chocolate. Use a fork or dipping tool to lift out the ball, letting any excess chocolate drip off. Place the dipped balls back on the parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch each other as they set.

Setting and Decorating the Balls

Once you’ve dipped each Butterfinger Ball in chocolate, arrange them neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Allow the chocolate coating to set fully; this can take about 20-30 minutes at room temperature or faster if you place the sheet in the refrigerator. The chocolate should be firm to the touch before moving them.

For an extra decorative touch, consider adding chocolate sprinkles or a sprinkle of crushed Butterfinger pieces on top while the chocolate is still slightly soft. This small addition enhances both the look and the flavor of each ball, giving it a gourmet appeal. Another fun option is to drizzle melted white chocolate over the balls for a professional finish. You can also experiment with edible glitter or colored sprinkles to suit festive occasions, making them as eye-catching as they are delicious.

Pro Tips for Success

To make the best Butterfinger Balls, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Crushing the Candy Bars: For a smoother mixture, crush the Butterfinger candy bars finely. Large chunks may make it difficult to shape the balls. Use a food processor or a plastic bag with a rolling pin to achieve the desired consistency.
• Chilling for Easy Dipping: Chilling the shaped balls for at least 30 minutes is essential. This helps them hold their shape during the chocolate coating step, making it easier to achieve a smooth, even finish.
• Using Almond Bark: If you’re looking for an alternative to chocolate chips, consider using almond bark. It melts well and provides a nice glossy coating, perfect for dipping and setting without any cracking.
• Decorations: For a visually stunning finish, add toppings like chocolate sprinkles or crushed Butterfinger pieces right after dipping, while the chocolate is still soft, to ensure they adhere well.

Flavor Variations and Substitutions

Butterfinger Balls are versatile, allowing for plenty of delicious variations to suit different tastes:

• Candy Bar Swaps: Substitute Butterfingers with other favorites like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Snickers, or Kit Kat bars. Each option brings a unique flavor and texture to the filling.
• Chocolate Coating Options: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate, try dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet profile or white chocolate for a contrast in both flavor and color.
• Peanut Butter Twist: Adding a tablespoon or two of peanut butter to the mixture can enhance the classic chocolate-peanut flavor, making it even creamier and richer.
• Flavor Additions: For a sophisticated twist, add a dash of espresso powder for a mocha flavor or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.

These small tweaks allow you to personalize this treat, giving you a customized dessert that still captures the essence of Butterfinger Balls.

Serving Suggestions

Butterfinger Balls are perfect for serving at gatherings, or simply as a treat to enjoy at home. Here are some fun ways to present and pair them:

• Mini Cupcake Liners: Place each ball in a colorful mini cupcake liner for an attractive, mess-free presentation. This also makes them easier to grab at parties and keeps them looking neat.
• Dessert Charcuterie Board: Include Butterfinger Balls on a dessert board alongside other sweets like chocolate-covered pretzels, mini brownies, and fruit slices. The variety will add visual appeal and cater to diverse tastes.
• Coffee Pairing: These balls pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a latte. The chocolate and peanut flavors complement the bitterness of coffee, creating a perfect dessert pairing.
• Ice Cream Topping: For a decadent treat, crumble a few Butterfinger Balls over vanilla ice cream for added crunch and flavor.

This versatility makes Butterfinger Balls a great addition to any dessert spread.

Storage Tips

Proper storage will keep Butterfinger Balls fresh and delicious. For short-term storage, place the balls in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to one week. This keeps the chocolate coating firm and the filling flavorful. If you need to store them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the Butterfinger Balls in the refrigerator for a few hours to restore their original texture without compromising the chocolate coating.

Nutritional Information

Each Butterfinger Ball offers a rich combination of flavors but also packs a sweet punch in terms of calories. Depending on the size and ingredients, one ball typically contains around 150-200 calories. The main sources of calories come from the cream cheese, Butterfinger candy, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per ball:

• Calories: 150-200
• Fats: 10-12g, primarily from the cream cheese and chocolate
• Sugars: 10-12g, due to the candy bars and chocolate coating
• Protein: 2-3g, thanks to the peanut butter and cream cheese

For a slightly lighter version, consider using lower-fat cream cheese or dark chocolate, which contains less sugar and offers a richer taste. Although Butterfinger Balls are indulgent, they make a delightful treat when enjoyed in moderation.

(FAQs)

Can I make Butterfinger Balls without cream cheese?
Yes! If you want a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with peanut butter or almond butter. This will slightly alter the flavor but will still create a deliciously rich filling.

What if I don’t have Butterfinger candy bars?
No problem! You can substitute Butterfingers with other crunchy candy bars like Snickers, Twix, or Kit Kats. Each brings a unique flavor, keeping the dessert interesting and customizable.

How do I prevent the chocolate coating from cracking?
To avoid cracking, make sure the Butterfinger Balls are not too cold when you dip them. Letting them sit for a couple of minutes at room temperature after chilling helps. Additionally, adding a bit of vegetable shortening to the chocolate will improve its flexibility and create a smoother coating.

Can I use almond bark instead of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Almond bark is a great alternative to chocolate chips. It melts smoothly, coats well, and offers a beautiful shine, making it a favorite for many bakers.

How do I ensure the balls hold their shape?
Chill the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping. If the mixture is still too soft, chill it a bit longer to ensure easy handling and round, uniform balls.

for my son's birthday party

 These small sandwiches are great for gatherings or a fast bite to eat. When you mix crunchy Ritz crackers with tasty ham and melted Swiss cheese, then add a delicious butter mixture on top, you get a yummy and fulfilling snack.

List of ingredients:

Amount of Ingredients

48 Ritz crackers

Ham from the deli, cut into 8 slices.

Cheese with holes, cut into 8 pieces.

Melted butter: 4 tablespoons

2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce

Half a teaspoon of garlic powder.

1 teaspoon of poppy seeds

1/2 teaspoon of dried chopped onion

Directions:

Heat the oven before using. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before using it.

Get the baking tray ready. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Slice the ham and cheese. Slice the ham and Swiss cheese into four pieces each

Make sandwiches. Put half of the Ritz crackers on the baking sheet. Put ham and cheese on top, then add the rest of the crackers.

Prepare the butter mixture. Mix melted butter with Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and dried minced onion.

Sandwiches with a crispy crust: Spread the butter mixture on top of the sandwiches.

Cook in the oven. Cook in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crackers are golden brown.

Wait on tables. Allow to cool a bit before serving.

Try these tasty and simple Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken

 

Ingredients:

For the Chicken & Steak:
2 chicken breasts, cubed
2 ribeye steaks, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Loaded Mashed Potatoes:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup sour cream
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 green onions, sliced (green parts only)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

Place potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash.
Add heavy cream, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes, mixing until smooth and creamy. Fold in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Bake the Potatoes:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the loaded mashed potatoes into a greased baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Prepare the Chicken & Steak:

While potatoes bake, season chicken and steak cubes with garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken and steak cubes for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown.
Serve:

Serve chicken and steak bites over a generous portion of cheesy loaded mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 600 kcal per serving

Irresistible Smoky Ranch Burgers

 Crack Burgers

Irresistible Smoky Ranch Burgers

Ingredients:

1½ lb ground chuck
3 Tbsp sour cream
2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix
⅓ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chuck, sour cream, ranch dressing mix, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.
Form the mixture into four evenly sized hamburger patties, each about ¾ inch thick.
Let the patties rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures the patties hold their shape when cooked.
Grill the patties over medium heat on a preheated grill, flipping only once, until they reach your desired doneness. For a medium-rare burger, cook to an internal temperature of 145°F, and for well-done, cook to 160°F.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 7 minutes | Total Time: 17 minutes
Kcal: 700 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf

 Bacon Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup finely chopped onions
1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Prepare the Ingredients: In a skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, crumble it into small pieces. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions and mushrooms until the mushrooms are tender and the onions are translucent. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Combine the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef and ground pork. Then, incorporate the breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, shredded Swiss cheese, and the cooled sautéed onions and mushrooms.

Add the Flavorings: Crack in the two eggs and pour in the Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. Sprinkle the garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Mix everything until well combined, but be cautious not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Shape and Bake: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and transfer it to a baking dish or a lined baking sheet. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful glaze.

Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is fully cooked.

Rest and Serve: Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for easier slicing and a juicier meatloaf.

Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 1 hr 30 min | Servings: 6-8

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

 Thanksgiving can be overwhelming. Whether you plan for a large or small gathering, the food preparations can be daunting. Instead of thinking of shortcuts, I look for ways to enjoy the same flavors and traditions. These pecan pie bars are a perfect way to not make a pie but instead have the same ingredients and flavor in a slightly quicker and easier process

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

How To Make Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts and fit them into the bottom of the greased baking pan, pressing down gently to cover the entire bottom.
3. Make Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Stir in the pecan halves until evenly coated.
4. Pour Filling: Pour the pecan filling over the pie crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.