Mommy Brain Cooks

Santa Cookies

2009-12-17T13:04:00.000-08:00

2 packages (6 ounces each) white baking chocolate, chopped OR 1 pkg. white Almond Bark
1 package Nutter Butter Sandwich cookies
Red colored sugar
32 vanilla or white chocolate chips
64 mini chocolate chips
32 red hot candies
wax paper

Melt chocolate according to the package instructions. Dip one end of each cookie into melted chocolate. For Santa's hat, sprinkle red sugar on top part of the chocolate covered cookie. Leave a white rim for the hat. Press on a white chocolate chip for the pom-pom of his hat. Dip other end of cookie for the beard, leaving center of the cookie uncovered. Place on wax paper. With a dab of chocolate, attach mini chocolate chips for eyes and a red hot for the nose. Let rest until the chocolate is set.

Eight Layer Casserole

2009-11-24T17:56:00.001-08:00

3 cups dried medium noodles (6 ounces)
1 pound ground beef
2 8-ounce cans tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried basil, crushed
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 8-ounce carton dairy sour cream
1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup chopped onion (1 small)
1 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, cooked and well drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (4 ounces)
Directions
1. Grease a 2-quart casserole or a 2-quart square baking dish; set aside. Cook noodles according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet cook beef until brown. Drain off fat. Stir tomato sauce, basil, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into skillet. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
3. In a medium mixing bowl beat together the sour cream and cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Stir in milk and onion. In prepared casserole or baking dish, layer half of the noodles (about 2 cups), half of the meat mixture (about 1 1/2 cups), half of the cream cheese mixture (about 1 cup), and all of the spinach. Top with the remaining meat mixture and noodles. Cover and chill remaining cream cheese mixture until needed.
4. Cover casserole or baking dish with lightly greased foil. Bake in 350 degree F oven about 45 minutes or until heated through. Uncover; spread with remaining cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle with the cheddar cheese. Bake, uncovered, about 10 minutes more or until cheese is melted. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
5. Makes 8 servings
6. Make-ahead directions: Prepare as directed through Step 3. Cover with lightly greased foil and chill in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes or until heated through. Uncover; spread with remaining cream-cheese mixture. Sprinkle with the cheddar cheese.��Bake, uncovered, about 10 minutes more or until cheese is melted. Let stand for 10 minutes before baking.

Meatball Casserole

2009-11-24T17:53:00.000-08:00

16 ounces dried ziti or penne pasta
1 26-ounce jar tomato pasta sauce
1 16-ounce package Italian-style frozen cooked meatballs (32), thawed
1 15-ounce can Italian-style tomato sauce
1 15-ounce carton ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 ounces)
Directions
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Return to pan. Stir in pasta sauce, meatballs, and tomato sauce. Transfer to an ungreased 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish or 3-quart rectangular casserole. Bake, covered, in a 350 degrees F oven for 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, in a small bowl combine ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Uncover pasta mixture and spoon ricotta mixture in mounds over pasta mixture. Cover loosely; bake about 10 minutes more or until heated through. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake, uncovered, for 5 minutes more. Makes 8 to 10 servings.

Great Fall and Winter Recipes

2009-11-24T17:47:00.000-08:00

Stay-in-Bed Stew

Pot Roast

Taco Soup

Quick Shrimp Chowder

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Icing

2009-11-24T17:40:00.000-08:00

Ingredients:
4 Eggs
1 2/3 C. Sugar
1 C. Cooking Oil
1 (15 oz) can Pumpkin (pure pumpkin)
2 C. Flour
2 tsp. Baking Powder
1 tbsp. Cinnamon
1 tsp. Salt
1 tsp. Baking Soda

Directions:Stir all ingredients together. Pour into an ungreased 11x15 inch pan. Bake 25 min. at 350 degrees or for thicker bars bake in a 13x9 pan for 45 min. Let cool and frost with Cream Cheese Icing

Cream Cheese Icing:
Beat Together
1 (3 oz) pkg. Cream Cheese softened
1/2 C. butter or margarine softened
1 Tsp. Vanilla
2 C. Powdered Sugar

California Club Pizza

2009-04-09T14:23:00.000-07:00

1 tsp veg oil
1 pkg. refrigerated pizza crust
2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken
2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
2 plum tomatoes
1/4 medium red onion
1 medium avocado
1 lemon
6 slices bacon, thinly sliced, cooked and drained

Preheat oven to 425. Lightly brush pizza pan with oil. Unroll the dough onto bottom of pan, gently stretching and pressing dough to cover bottom. Top crust with chicken and sprinkle with cheese. Bake 16-18 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Remove from oven.

Meanwhile, slice tomatoes in half lengthwise using knife. Scrape out seeds and pulp and dice. Slice onion and dice. Cut avocado, remove pit, and dice. Mix together avocado, onion, and tomato. Juice lemon, measure 2 tbsp juice, add to bowl and stir gently.

Distribute tomato mixture evenly over pizza. Sprinkle with bacon, if desired. Cut pizza into squares with a pizza cutter and serve.

Cheeseburger Salad

2009-04-09T14:18:00.001-07:00

4 sesame bun tops, toasted
1 small red onion, divided
2 plum tomatoes
1 lb lean ground beef
1/2 cup finely diced dill pickles
3/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
8 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 425. Slice bun tops into strips and arrange in a sinle layer on pan. Bake until lightly toasted. Remove and cool completely.

Cut half of the onion in half crosswise and then into thin slices. Cut tomatoes in small pieces.

Cook ground beef, breaking into small pieces. Chop remaining onion into small pieces. Finely dice pickles. Combine chopped onion, pickles, mustard and ketchup in a small bowl. Add to ground beef.

To serve, arrange lettuce on plate. Scoop beef mixture over lettuce. Top with cheese, tomatoes and sliced onion. Arrange hamburger bun croutons around plate.

*I did not use nearly as much onion because my family is not a big onion fan*

Grilled Chicken Penne al Fresco

2009-04-09T14:10:00.000-07:00

4 garlic cloves, peeled
2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes
3 cups uncooked mezze penne pasta or any other tube shaped pasta
3 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup white whine or chicken broth (cooking wine does add a little more flavor)
1/2 tsp each salt and pepper
1 1/4 cups lightly packed fresh basil leaves, divided
1 oz. Parmesan cheese, grated (1/4 cup packed)
2 cups diced, grilled chicken breasts

Additional pepper and Parmesan for topping if desired

Spray a deep baking dish with olive oil or non stick spray. Slice garlic into baker and add tomatoes. Cover, microwave on HIGH 4-5 minutes or until tomatoes begin to burst, stirring after 2 minutes. Crush tomatoes using Mix 'N Chop (I don't have this, I used my blender-a food processor would work great). Add pasta, broth, wine, salt and black pepper.

Return baker to microwave, cover and microwave on HIGH 16-18 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring after 10 minutes. Meanwhile, coarsely chop basil. Reserve 2 tbsp of the basil.

Carefully remove baker from microwave and remove lid, lifting away from you. Add remaining basil, cheese adn chicken to baker, mix well. Garnish with 2 tbsp of basil, Parmesan and pepper.

Sunday Morning Flapjacks

2009-01-18T15:18:00.000-08:00

4 egg yolks
2 cups sifted all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
6 tablespoons melted butter or margarine
2 cups milk
4 egg whites

Place all ingredients except egg whites in large mixing bowl, and beat with mixer until well blended.

In seperate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff but not dry. Fold beaten egg whites in batter.

Cook on hot griddle. Make small cakes by using 1 tblsp. batter for each cake, turn when top surface is dry. Serves 4 to 5 persons. And they're just as good on Monday through Saturday.

Not Your Usual Chicken Sandwich

2009-01-13T13:26:00.000-08:00

Plain Bagels lightly toasted
Spinach leaves-washed and trimmed
Chive and Onion cream cheese
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Sandwich-thawed, rinsed, and dried.
garlic powder
onion powder
salt
pepper

Place chicken in between plastic wrap and pound until they are even in thickness. I use my rolling pin :)

Put a generous amount of olive oil in a pan and let heat. Season chicken on both sides with all seasonings-be generous!!

When chicken is cooked through, spread cream cheese on the bagel, and stuff with chicken breast and spinach. YUM.

I serve this with roasted asparagus and brussel sprouts.

Don't gag!! Brussel sprouts are wonderful this way!! Trim them, cut them into halves or quarters, toss in olive oil, season GENEROUSLY with garlic salt and pepper and then bake at 450 until dark and yummy.

You will never turn your nose up at brussel sprouts again...

Chicken Tortellini Toss

2009-01-13T13:18:00.000-08:00

1 pkg. frozen tortellini or 2 9 oz. packages refridgerated
4 cups broccoli florets and/or cauliflower florets
1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes with italian herbs
1/2 a jar sun dried tomato pesto
1 9 oz. pkg. grilled chicken breast strips (I cook my chicken itself-I use two large breasts and season well with salt and pepper, bake in oven or cook in skillet in strips)
Parmesan cheese

IN a Dutch oven cook tortellini according to package directions. Steam broccoli OR you can add it to the pasta during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. I use the new broccoli steamers that steam in the microwave.

Return all ingredients to the Dutch oven.

Stir in undrained tomatoes, pesto and chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, just until heated through. Garnish with Parmesan.

Stay-in-Bed Stew

2008-10-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

2 pounds beef stew meat
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp pepper
2 tblsp olive oil
3 tblsp flour
3 cups beef broth
2 tblsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 onions, cut into 1 inch pieces
3 carrots, peeled and cut into 2 inch pieces (I use prepackaged baby carrots)
6 small new potatoes, cut in half
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed (I used canned peas)
1 tblsp. chopped parsley

In a large bowl, combine salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Cut meat into 1 to 3 inch pieces. Add meat to salt mixture, toss to coat each piece well. Over med-high heat, place half the oil in a skillet. When oil is hot, bworn the meat in bathces, adding more oil when needed. Place browned meat in slow cooker. Sprinkle with flour and toss to coat. Add beef broth, tomato paste, Italian herbs, onions, carrots, and potatoes. Add more beef broth or water just to cover ingredients. Set slow cooker on low cover and cook 7 to 8 hours or cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. Stir in peas and parsley and serve.

To ensure that the meat browns nicely during prep, don't crowd the pan. Make sure the meat isn't touching and that the heat stays on med-high heat. It shouldn't cook, just brown.

Quick Corn-and-Cheese Chowder in Bread Bowls

2008-10-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

4 pieces bacon, cut into thin slivers
2 (17 oz.) cans cream-style corn (I also use the frozen)
4 cups milk
3 cups frozen, diced hashbrown potatoes
2 green onions, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cheddar cheese, grated

Fry bacon until crisp. While frying, combine corn, milk, potatoes, onion, salt and pepper in a soup pot or large saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring often, until just simmering. Just before serving, stir in bacon and cheese.

8 Servings.

Caribbean Black Bean Soup

2008-09-30T14:18:00.000-07:00

1/2 cup diced onion
2 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 Tbsp. chili powder
1 Tbsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes
1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 lb. chicken breast tenders
2 cans black beans, drained
1/2 tsp salt

Saute onion and next 4 ingredients in hot oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat until tender and fragrant. Add garlice and cook one minute.

Stir in tomatoes adn next 4 ingredients until well blended. Stir in chicken. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook 2 hours. Shred chicken with two forks in Dutch oven. Add black beans and cook 10 minutes. Stir in salt. Serve.

Corn and Bacon Soup

2008-09-30T14:13:00.001-07:00

4 bacon slices
1 med. onion, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 Tbsp. All purpose flour
2 medium sized baking potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups) OR you can use 3 cups frozen country style hash browns)
4 cups chicken broth
1 16 oz. pkg frozen whole kernel corn
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 10 oz. can diced tomatoes adn green chiles
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
salt to taste

cook bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat 5 minutes or until crisp. Remove bacon, and drain on paper towels, reserving drippings in Dutch oven. Crumble bacon.
Saute onion, bell pepper and garlic in hot drippings over medium -high heat until tender. Add flour and cook, stirring gently but constantly for one minutes. Stire in potatoes and next 4 ingredients, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, and simmer, stirring often, 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Stire in tomatoes and green chiles and cheese, simmer one minute or until cheese is melted. Season with salt to taste. Serve with crumbled bacon on top.

Cheesy Bread

2008-09-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

1 recipe of pizza crust or store bought
1 bag of mozarella cheese
garlic
olive oil
parmesan cheese

Roast whole garlic cloves in olive oil until golden. Pick them out with a fork-the oil is now flavored with them. Rub pizza crust with oil and top with cheeses. Bake at 400 until cheese is melted and starting to brown. Cut into strips and serve with pizza sauce.

Hogs in a Quilt

2008-09-28T13:40:00.001-07:00

1 package of hot dogs-I buy the turkey or fat free hot dogs
1 can of refrigerated crescent rolls

Roll the crescent rolls out into a rectangle-be very gentle!

Carefully divide along the perforated lines until you have eight triangles. Wrap one hot dog with each triangle.

Bake at 350 until done!

Fish Tacos

2008-09-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

Mayo
taco seasoning
fish sticks
tortillas
lettuce
tomato
cheese

Mix mayo and taco seasoning to taste. Cook fish sticks.

Spread mayo mixture on tortillas. Add fish sticks, lettuce, tomatoes and cheese. Roll up and enjoy!

Candy Bar Brownies

2008-09-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

3 Symphony bars-the large ones with toffee and almonds
1 box of brownie mix-make sure it is enough for a 13x9 pan

mix brownies as directed. Pour half into greased pan and spread evenly. Lay candy bars on top, covering all of the mix. Pour second half over candy bars and spread evenly. Bake as the mix directs.

You will think you have died and gone to heaven. Seriously.

BBQ Pizza

2008-09-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

1 batch of Homemade Pizza Dough or store bought crust
1 large can of chicken
BBQ sauce
mozarella cheese
purple onions (I don't use this, but some people like it)

mix chicken, bbq sauce and onions together. Spread over pizza crust and cover with cheese. Bake at 425 until cheese is melted and crust is done.

Porcupine Meatballs

2008-09-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

1 pd. lean ground beef or turkey
1 pkg onion soup
1 cup rice, uncooked

mix ingredients with hands and shape into small to medium sized meatballs. Place in casserole dish. Cover with one can of tomato soup and a can of water. Bake at 350 for about 30 minutes or until done.

Summer Pasta

2008-09-07T16:21:00.000-07:00

Zuccinni
Broccoli
Squash
Whole Wheat Pasta
Parmesan Cheese
Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper

Cook pasta. Meanwhile, steam vegetables or stir fry in olive oil. Toss vegetables, cooked pasta, olive oil, parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Serve.

Spinach, Shrimp, and Feta Pizza

2008-09-07T16:17:00.000-07:00

1 batch of homemade pizza crust or 1 storebought crust
1/2 bag of fresh spinach
1/2 bag of frozen, cooked cocktail shrimp
feta cheese
mozarella cheese
olive oil
garlic

Saute garlic in olive oil-use as much or little as you would like. Spread over pizza crust. Cover with spinach. Top spinach with shrimp and feta cheese. Cover with mozarella cheese. Bake at 400 until crust is done and cheese is browned. Let sit for five minutes and then serve with fruit and salad (I use leftover spinach)

1 bag of spinach is enough for two pizzas, same with 1 bag of shrimp

Sloppy Joe Pizza

2008-09-07T16:15:00.000-07:00

1 batch of homemade pizza crust or 1 store bought crust.
Lean hamburger meat (I also use turkey)
Shredded mozarella cheese
can of sloppy joe mix

cook meat and stir in sloppy joe sauce when done. Put on pizza crust, top with generous amount of cheese and bake at 400 until cheese is browned and pizza is bubbly. Let sit for ten minutes and then serve with salad and fruit.

Grilled Chicken Sandwiches

2008-09-07T16:06:00.000-07:00

Low fat Honey Mustard Dressing or Mayo
Frozen chicken breasts
pepper
garlic powder
onion powder
italian seasoning
garlic salt
paprika
olive oil

Sprinkle chicken liberally with seasonings and cook with olive oil in a large skillet. Serve on buns (I keep Kaiser or Ciabatta buns in my freezer) with condiments and lettuce and tomato. Clay likes to add turkey bacon. We eat fruit or sweet potato fries on the side.

Tuna Melts

2008-09-07T15:42:00.000-07:00

Mayo
Tuna
Whole Wheat English Muffins
Chopped Tomato
Shredded cheese

Drain tuna and mix with mayo, salt and pepper. Spoon onto muffin, top with tomatoes and cheese. Broil in oven or toaster oven until cheese melts.

Meatball Subs

2008-09-07T15:38:00.000-07:00

Bag of Frozen Meatballs
1 Jar of Spaghetti Sauce
sandwich buns, partially split
1/2 cup shredded Italian or Mozarella cheese

Mix spaghetti sauce and 1 cup water in a slow cooker, stir well. Add meatballs, stir gently until evenly coated. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH 2 to 4 hours. Fill buns with meatballs and sauce, sprinkle with cheese.

For my family of four (two being very small eaters) I use the leftover meatballs for spaghetti the next night!

Easy Stir Fry

2008-09-07T15:36:00.001-07:00

1/2 cup Asian Toasted Sesame dressing (Kraft)
1 lb. sirloin, thinly sliced
6 cups frozen oriental stir fry vegetables (Birds eye makes a large bag that is really good)
4 cups brown or white rice

Heat dressing in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add meat and vegetables. Stir fry for five minutes or until meat is cooked through. Serve over rice.

Capalleni Caprese

2008-09-07T15:31:00.000-07:00

1/2 lb. capallini or spaghetti, uncooked
1/2 cup Kraft Tuscan House Italian Dressing
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups halved grape or cherry tomatoes
1 cup shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1/3 cup fresh basil,finely chopped

Cook pasta. Meanwhile, heat dressing in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and garlic;cook and stir for two minutes. Add tomatoes and cook for five minutes or until heated through. Drain pasta and add to tomato mixture, toss lightly. Sprinkle with cheese and basil.

Serves 4

Chili Topped Baked Potatoes

2008-09-07T15:29:00.000-07:00

4 Baked Potatoes
leftover chili OR 15 oz. can chili
sharp cheddar cheese-shredded
sour cream

Open potatoes and top with chili, cheddar and sour cream. Clay likes chives on top, the kids like olives.

Slow-Cooker Fajitas

2008-09-02T19:59:00.000-07:00

1 1/2 pounds flank steak, cut into four to six pieces
1 med. onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tblsp cilantro
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp tround coriander
3/4 to 1 tsp salt
1 (10 oz.) can Rotel

Cover and cook on High four to five hours or on low 7 hours.

Remove meat and shred with two forks. Serve on tortilla with sour cream, cheese, ect...

Easy Burritos

2008-09-02T19:55:00.000-07:00

1 lg. onion, sliced into rings
1 (3 to 4) sirloin beef roast, cut in half
1/2 cup water
2 (1.25 oz) pkgs taco seasoning mix, divided
flour tortillas
4 cups shredded cheddar

Pico de Gallo

3 cups diced plum tomatoes
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/3 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 to 1/3 cup diced jalapeno peppers
1/3 cup fresh lime juice
1/2 tsp olive oil
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
stir, cover and chill

Cook roast at 350 in oven until done or all day in crock pot on low. Shred with fork and serve in tortillas with Pico de Gallo on top.

Chicken Feta Burgers

2008-08-30T19:54:00.001-07:00

1 pound uncooked ground chicken breast
1 Tbsp fresh oregano
1/4 tsp garlic powder
7 Tbsp feta cheese, crumbled
4 reduced-calorie hamburger roll(s)
1 cup lettuce, romaine, cut into thick strips
2/3 cup roasted red peppers, sliced (without oil)
5 small olive(s), black, sliced (about 4 tsp)

Instructions
Preheat grill or broiler.
In a medium bowl, combine chicken, oregano, garlic powder and feta; divide mixture into four balls and then press them gently into patties.
Grill or broil patties until internal temperature of burgers reaches 165°F, about 7 to 8 minutes per side.
Serve each burger on a bun with 1/4 of lettuce, 1/4 of peppers and 1 teaspoon of olives. Yields 1 burger per serving.

Spaghetti Amatriciana

2008-08-30T19:53:00.001-07:00

1/8 tsp table salt, or to taste (for cooking pasta)
8 oz uncooked whole-wheat spaghetti
1 tsp olive oil
4 oz Canadian-style bacon, diced
1 large onion(s), finely diced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
2 cup canned tomatoes, chopped
1/8 tsp table salt, or to taste
1/8 tsp black pepper, or to taste

Instructions
Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente; reserve 1/4 cup of cooking water and then drain pasta. Place pasta back in pot.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook bacon, stirring frequently, until browned. Stir in onion and increase heat to medium-high; cook until lightly browned. Stir in red pepper flakes and tomatoes; toss to mix and coat.
Toss hot spaghetti and reserved pasta cooking water with tomato sauce; season to taste with salt and pepper. Yields about 1 1/2 cups per serving.
Notes

Healthy Pear Cobbler

2008-08-30T19:52:00.001-07:00

1 sprays cooking spray
3 medium pear(s), peeled and sliced
2 Tbsp packed brown sugar
2 tsp all-purpose flour
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup whole-grain wheat flour
1 1/2 Tbsp unpacked brown sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 Tbsp reduced-calorie margarine
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 Tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.
Combine pears, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of flour, lemon juice and cinnamon in a large bowl; toss to coat pears and pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
In a medium-size bowl, combine the remaining flours, remaining brown sugar and baking powder; cut in margarine with a pastry blender, or quickly with your fingertips, until mixture resembles coarse meal. Add buttermilk and toss with a fork until flour mixture is moist.
Drop four heaping tablespoons of dough onto pear mixture. Bake until crust is lightly browned and fruit is bubbly, about 40 to 45 minutes. Allow to cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar and cut into 6 pieces

To Die For Tortellini

2008-08-30T19:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is NOT the healthiest meal in the world SO I only eat it when I am feeling really, really thin because it is SOOOO good but SO incredibly fattening.

bag of frozen tortellini
olive oil
garlic
parmesan cheese
salt and pepper

Cook tortellini according to directions. While cooking, mince two or three garlic cloves. Pour generous amount of oil in skillet and roast garlic until it is browned but NOT burned. Toss with pasta, cheese and salt and pepper.

Eat and try not to think about all that oil.

Parmesan Mashed Potatoes-Weight Watchers

2008-08-30T19:45:00.000-07:00

10 medium potato(es), red (about 2 1/2 lbs)
1/2 cup buttermilk, warmed
3 Tbsp Parmesan cheese, strong-flavored, grated
1/4 cup chives, chopped
1 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste

Instructions
Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with an inch of water; bring to a boil, reduce heat, simmer and cook until fork-tender, about 30 minutes. Drain and return potatoes to pot.
Mash potatoes with a potato masher. Stir in remaining ingredients and mix well to combine. Yields about 2/3 cup per serving.

Clay's Favorite Pasta-And Mine Because It is Lowfat!!!

2008-08-30T19:39:00.000-07:00

12 oz uncooked ziti (I use whole wheat sometimes)
2 tsp olive oil
2 medium garlic clove(s), minced
1 pound raw lean ground beef
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp table salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat; add garlic and sauté 2 minutes. Add beef and cook until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks, about 3 to 5 minutes; drain off any fat and set pan back over medium heat.
Add oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper; stir to coat beef. Cook until herbs become fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Spoon a small amount of beef-tomato mixture into bottom of a 4-quart casserole dish (just enough to cover surface); top with half of cooked ziti. Next, layer with half of remaining beef-tomato sauce and half of mozzarella cheese. Layer with remaining ziti and then top with remaining beef-tomato sauce; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake until cheese is golden and bubbly, about 30 minutes. Slice into 8 pieces and serve. Yields 1 piece per serving.

Santa Fe Salad-Low fat

2008-08-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

6 Tbsp reduced-calorie mayonnaise
3 Tbsp cilantro, fresh, finely chopped
3 Tbsp water
1 medium scallion(s), minced
1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
2 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp chili powder
15 oz canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cup cooked corn kernels, fresh or frozen
2 cup grape tomatoes
1 medium sweet red pepper(s), cut into thin strips (about 1 1/2 cups)
8 cup romaine lettuce, cut into thick shreds (about 2 hearts)

Instructions
To make dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, cilantro, water, scallion, lime juice, sugar and chili powder in a small bowl until smooth. Transfer to a jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate until ready to use.
In a large bowl or food storage container, layer remaining ingredients in order listed. Cover and refrigerate.
To serve, spoon salad ingredients into a bowl. Shake dressing and then drizzle dressing over salad; toss well to coat. Yields about 2 cups of salad and 1 1/2 tablespoons of dressing per serving.

Apple and Pear Crisp-Low Fat

2008-08-30T19:36:00.000-07:00

3 small apple(s), Granny Smiths, cored, chopped
2 medium pear(s), cored, chopped
1/4 cup raisins
3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 1/2 tsp lemon zest
1/2 cup unpacked brown sugar
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/2 cup Quaker Oats Old-Fashioned Oats, or other brand
1/4 cup almonds, ground
1/3 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
2 Tbsp reduced-calorie margarine, spread
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 6-cup casserole dish with cooking spray.
Arrange apples, pears, raisins, lemon juice and zest in bottom of prepared casserole dish.
Combine sugar and allspice in a small bowl; sprinkle over fruit. Combine oats, almonds and flour in same small bowl; rub in margarine using fingertips and then sprinkle the topping over the fruit mixture. Bake until the fruit is tender, about 25 to 30 minutes. Cut into 6 pieces and serve warm.

Berry Cobbler-Low Fat

2008-08-30T19:35:00.000-07:00

2 cup blackberries
2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved
1/4 tsp table salt
2 Tbsp cornstarch
1/4 cup sugar
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp ground cardamom
1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400ºF. In a shallow, 2-quart ovenproof dish, stir together berries, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, cornstarch and 1/4 cup of sugar. Bake until hot, about 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare topping: In a bowl, stir together flour, 1 teaspoon of sugar, baking powder, baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of salt and cardamom. Stir in buttermilk to form a sticky dough.
Remove fruit from oven. Drop dough by heaping tablespoons onto fruit to form 4 biscuits. Bake until biscuits are golden and fruit is bubbling, about 25 minutes. Allow cobbler to sit for 5 minutes for fruit to firm up before serving. Yields about 1 cup fruit and 1 biscuit per serving.

Raspberry Muffins-Low Fat

2008-08-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

1 sprays cooking spray
1 1/2 cup whole wheat self-rising flour
4 Tbsp reduced-calorie margarine, softened
2 oz ready-to-eat crisp rice cereal, divided (about 2 cups)
1 1/2 cups raspberries, divided
2/3 cup unpacked brown sugar, divided
2 large egg(s), lightly beaten
2/3 cup buttermilk

Instructions
Preheat oven to 400ºF. Coat a 12-hole muffin tin with cooking spray.
Place flour in a large bowl and rub in margarine with your fingers. Stir in 1 1/3 cups of cereal, 1 cup of raspberries and 1/2 cup of sugar. Combine eggs and milk in a small bowl; stir into flour-fruit mixture. (Note: If you cannot find whole wheat self-rising flour, mix together 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour with 2 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.)
Pour mixture into prepared tin; sprinkle with remaining raspberries, cereal and sugar.
Bake 25 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before flipping onto wire rack to cool. Yields 1 muffin per serving.

The cereal makes these fluffy!

Blueberry Bran Pancakes-Weight Watchers

2008-08-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

1 cup ready-to-eat bran flakes
2 large egg white(s)
1 1/4 cup buttermilk
2 tsp canola oil
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup blueberries
2 tsp powdered sugar

Coat a nonstick skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium-high heat.
Crush cereal in a food processor or blender, or place in a zip-close plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin; set aside.
Stir egg whites, buttermilk, oil and cereal together in a medium bowl; allow to stand 5 minutes. Beat in flour, sugar, baking powder and baking soda with a wire whisk until well blended.
To make pancakes, place 3 tablespoons of batter onto skillet, repeat to make 4 pancakes at a time. Gently press 5 to 6 blueberries into each pancake. Cook until puffed, about 2 minutes; flip and cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes more. Repeat to make 12 pancakes. Serve pancakes in a short stack dusted with powdered sugar. Yields 3 pancakes per serving.

Grilled or Roasted Asparagus

2008-08-30T19:28:00.000-07:00

Fresh Asparagus-washed and trimmed
olive oil
salt and pepper
lemon juice
proscuitto or bacon

wrap bacon or proscuitto around bottoms of three or four asparagus. Secure with toothpick. If you are grilling make sure you soak the toothpicks in water first. I just broil mine in the oven most of the time. Lay bundles in casserole dish, drizzle olive oil, lemon juice and then season with salt and pepper.

Honey Mustard and Bacon Smothered Chicken

2008-08-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

4 Chicken Breasts
1/4 tsp pepper
8 bacon slices
1/4 cup Mex. Cheese blend
1 tbsp. butter
1/4 tsp. salt
1 small jar honey mustard dressing
1 tbsp. olive oil

Sprinkle cheese with salt and pepper. melt butter with oil in a large skillet over medium high heat, add chicken and cook 8 minutes on each side or until done. Reduce heat to medium low, brush chicken with honey mustard dressing. Top with bacon and sprinkle with cheese. Melt cheese.

Shrimp Quesadillas

2008-08-29T13:14:00.000-07:00

nonstick spray
tortillas
1/2 a 7 oz. carton of garlic or spicy three pepper hummus
6 oz. peeled, deveined cooked medium shrimp
2 6 oz. jar marinated artichoke hearts
1 4 oz. pkg. crumbled feta cheese

Coat one side of each tortilla with cooking spray. Place tortillas, sprayed side down, on work surface; spread with hummus. Top half of each tortilla with shrimp, artichokes, and cheese. Fold tortillas in half, pressing gently.

Heat large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat for one minute. Cook quesadillas, two at a time, for 4 to 6 minutes or until browned and heated through, turning once.

Calories 430 each quesadilla, 20 g fat.

Cut Out Cookies and Frosting

2008-08-23T08:18:00.000-07:00

Cut Out Cookies from Christy
These are perfect for Christmas!
Dough:
2 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 cup sugar
2 tblsp. orange juice
1 cup butter, softened
1 tblsp.vanilla
1 egg, beaten
Frosting:
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
2 Tblsp. milk
1 tsp vanilla
3 drops food coloring (optional)
Combine all dough ingredients and beat at low speed, scraping sides of bowl often until well mixed (1-2 minutes). Cover and chill for 2-3 hours or until dough is firm enough to roll out. On a floured surface, roll small portions of the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut with cookie cutters and bake at 400 degrees for 6 to 10 minutes or until sides are light brown.Combine all frosting ingredients and beat at low speed until fluffy. Frost and decorate cooled cookies.

Low Fat Lasagna

2008-08-23T08:16:00.000-07:00

Low Fat Lasagna from Christy
You can't tell this is low fat!I pound ground turkey or lean hamburger meat
1 large egg
1 cup chopped onion
2 cups lowfat cottage cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tblsp. parsley flakes
1 (16 oz.) can diced tomatoes (do not drain)
1/2 tsp. pepper
2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
cooked lasagna noodles
2 tsps. dried basil bag of mozarella cheese
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. fennel seeds
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook first 3 ingredients in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until meat is browned. Crumble and drain well. Add diced tomatoes and next 4 ingredients, stirring well. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes, stirring often. Combine 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, egg, cottage cheese, and parsley in a large bowl, stirring well. Spread one third on fthe meat sauce into the bottom of a 13x9 inch baking dish. Layer 3 or 4 noodles over the sauce. Spread one half of the cottage cheese mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle with chcese. Repeat all steps ending with a final layer of meat sauce. Cover with Parmesan cheese and remaining mozarella. Bake at 375 for 30 minutes.I use 2% mozarella-it tastes just as good but is even lower in fat. I also get lazy sometimes and just use jar sauce, it still turns out yummy!

Shrimp and Grits

2008-08-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

1 1/2 pounds frozen shrimp (thawed by running under cold water)
1 tsp. salt
2 cups cooked grits
1 tube garlic cheese
1 tsp butter
Ground white pepper
6 bacon slices, diced
2 cups fresh, sliced mushrooms
1 cup sliced scallions
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tblsp. chopped fresh parsley
6 to 8 tsps. lemon juice
salt and ground pepper to taste

Peel shrimp, and devein, if desired. Combine first 5 ingredients in the top of a double boiler, keep warm over simmering water. Saute' bacon in a skillet over medium heat until done but not crisp. Remove bacon from skillet. Drain drippings, reserving 2 tblsp. in skillet. Return bacon to skillet. Add shrimp, and saute' until beginning to turn pink, turning once. Add mushrooms, and saute' 2 to 4 minutes or until shrimp are pink and firm. Add scallions and garlic, stirring well. Add parsley, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Spoon grits evenly onto 4 serving plates. Spoon shrimp mixture over grits, and serve immediately.

Biscuits

2008-08-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

EASY Biscuits-Christy
2 cups self-rising flour
generous pinch of salt
stir together 2/3 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil

stir JUST until mixed.Knead lightly and roll out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out and bake at 450 until golden brown.These are the only biscuits that I can make!I will sometimes add sage and chedder for cheesy herb biscuits.

Pot Roast

2008-08-23T08:13:00.000-07:00

This is Clay's favorite meal.

roast (for me and Clay I will even find a fatty steak-it makes less but tastes the same)
potatoes
onion
packet of onion soup (Liptons)
cream of mushroom soup
Wash and chop potatoes and onions. Put in the bottom of the pan. Place roast on top and cover with cream of mushroom soup. Sprinkle with entire packet of onion soup. Cover and bake at 350 for 1 1/2 -2 hours or until done in the center. The amount of potatoes, onions, and cooking time depends on the size of the roast.

Sausage and Arugula Skillet

2008-08-23T08:12:00.001-07:00

Large bag of fresh spinach or equal amount Arugula (I use spinach)
6 cloves of fresh, chopped garlic
1/2 small onion
olive oil
Lean Mild Italian Turkey Sausage (it is sold next to the ground turkey, it is in large links)
Red Pepper Flakes
box of Bowtie Pasta

Begin cooking pasta.

Saute garlic, onions and olive oil in a large skillet. When they are soft cut open the turkey meat casings and add to the pan. Add red pepper flakes to taste. Cook meat until done. Add spinach or arugula one small bunch at a time. Cover skillet after each batch is added and allow to wilt. When all of the spinach has wilted stir in cooked pasta mix well with meat and spinach.Top with grated parmesan.

Poppy Seed Chicken

2008-08-23T08:11:00.001-07:00

5 cups chopped cooked chicken (or one whole chicken-I boil the chicken in a stock pot until done)
1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups crushed buttery round crackers
1 teaspoon poppy seeds
1/2 cup butter, melted

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).Place the chicken into a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, stir together the condensed soup and sour cream. Pour over the chicken. In a separate bowl, stir together the crushed crackers, poppy seeds and melted butter. Sprinkle over the chicken and sauce.Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, until the top of the casserole is browned and the sauce is bubbly.

Sausage and Rigatoni Pasta

2008-08-23T08:09:00.000-07:00

Sausage and Rigatoni Pasta
8 oz. (1/2 box) Rigatoni Pasta
Italian Turkey Sausage (Jenny Owens)
1/4 cup onion
1/4 cup Kraft sundried tomato salad dressing
1 sm. can tomato paste

Remove the casings and lightly brown the sausage-chop roughly with the spatula. Add onions and tomato paste and stir. Cook, covered, for 15 minutes on med. low or until onions are tender and sausage is cooked through. Meanwhile, cook pasta.When sausage mixture is done add salad dressing. Mix with cooked pasta and serve topped with parmesan cheese.The salad dressing is delicious and surprisingly low in fat and calories. I served a green salad with the pasta and used the salad dressing.

Chicken and Dumplings

2008-08-23T08:08:00.000-07:00

5 tortillas (8 inch)
3 14 1/2 oz. cans chicken broth
Boiled Chicken cut into pieces
1/4 cup milk

Sprinkle tortillas with flour, boil broth and drop in tortillas. Cook about ten minutes or until tender. Add chicken and milk. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Boil to thicken. Remove from heat and let sit for fifteen to twenty minutes. Tortillas will turn into dumplings!ALSOI don't always use a whole chicken-I use four or five chicken breasts and just chop them up. This is healthier and easier!I don't always use tortillas, the bags of frozen dumplings work just as well!

Cheesy Crescent Roll Chicken

2008-08-23T08:07:00.000-07:00

4 Chicken Breasts
1 can crescent rolls
1 10 oz. can cream of chicken soup (I use fat free)
1/4 to 1/2 cup milk
3/4 to 1 cup cheddar cheese

Boil chicken breasts until done. Roll chicken breasts in individual crescent rolls and place in casserole (it may take two or three rolls). Combine soup, milk and half of cheese in a saucepan and heat until smooth. Pour mixture over crescent rolls and sprinkle cheese on top. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

Sesame Chicken and Noodles

2008-08-23T08:05:00.000-07:00

It is really good!Sesame Chicken and Noodles
8 ounces uncooked spaghetti
1/2 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup natural-style, reduced-fat creamy peanut butter (such as Smucker's)
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, divided
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (this doesn't make it spicy, just adds flavor)
2 teaspoons canola oil
3/4 pound chicken breast tenders, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups matchstick-cut carrots, chopped (about 4 ounces)
1 1/2 cups thinly sliced green onions (about 1 bunch)

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. DrainCombine broth, peanut butter, 1 1/2 tablespoons sesame seeds, and next 5 ingredients (through hot pepper sauce).Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the chicken with salt. Add chicken to pan; sauté 3 minutes. Add carrots and onions; sauté 2 minutes or until chicken is done. Stir in broth mixture.Add pasta to pan, tossing to coat. Top with remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons sesame seeds; serve immediately. Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 2 cups)

Cheesy Spinach Lasagna

2008-08-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

This is wonderful. Even Laura Grace eats it. Enough said.

9 uncooked lasagna noodles
2 cups shredded mozarella cheese
1 16 oz. container fat free ricotta cheese
1 10 oz. pkg. frozen spinach (chopped, thawed, and drained)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. dried Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 (3 oz.) pkg. Canadian Bacon, chopped. I also use 4-6 pieces turkey bacon.
1/2 small onion chopped-I use less.
1 26 oz. pasta sauce

Cook pasta and set aside.Stir together 1 1/2 cups mozarella cheese, ricotta cheese, and next 5 ingredients.Saute chopped bacon and diced onion in a skillet coated with cooking spray over med. heat 5 to 6 minutes or until onion is tender. Stir into cheese mixture.Spread 1/2 cup pasta sauce on bottom of 11x7 inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Layer with 3 noodles and 1/2 cup pasta sauce; top with half of cheese mixture. Repeat layers once, ending with remaining cheese mixture. Top with remaining 3 noodles and remaining pasta sauce. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, top with remaining mozarella. Bake 5 minutes or until cheese melts, let stand 5 minutes.

Bread Machine Pizza Crust

2008-08-23T08:02:00.000-07:00

Breadmachine Pizza Crust
1 cup of water PLUS 3 tablespoons of water
2 tbslp oil (I use olive oil or flax oil)
3 cups bread flour
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
2 1/2 tsp active rise yeast or breadmaker yeast

Put in bread machine in the order listed. Use the white dough cycle. When done spray pizza pan with cooking spray, spread out with fingers, top with favorite toppings!

Florentine Meatballs

2008-08-23T07:59:00.000-07:00

I make this recipe alot, it is really good and healthy! Laura Grace begs for it and then eats her weight in meatballs :)
1 10 oz box frozen spinach
2 pkgs ground turkey (2 lbs)
1 sm. onion finely chopped ( I only use 1/2)
3 garlic cloves chopped
1 large egg
1 3/4 cups 1% milk
3/4 cup bread crumbs ( I use toasted whole wheat bread and then crumble it)
1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (or just parmesan)
salt and pepper to taste
2 tblsp butter (I use the omega 3 butter)
2 tblsp flour
1 cup chicken broth
bag of shredded Italian cheese
1/2 tsp nutmeg
fresh chopped parsley
Olive oil

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.Thaw and dry spinach. Put turkey in large bowl and make a well in the middle. Add the spinach, all but 3 tblsp onion, garlic, the egg, 1/4 cup milk, the breadcrumbs, parm-reg cheese, and salt and pepper. Form into 12 large balls and drizzle with Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Arrange on a cookie sheet sprayed with non stick spray and bake 20 minutes ( I use a broiler pan so the grease drains into the bottom).During the last 5 minutes of bake time, heat a sauce pot, add drizzle of olive oil and butter. Then add the onion and cook 2 min, whisk in flour, rest of the milk, and cup of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, stir in bag of cheese, and season with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Turn temp down to low and stir until the cheese melts. Serve over the meatballs!I just steam broccoli as a side and sometimes if we are really hungry, I will serve the meatballs over pasta.

Taco Soup

2008-08-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

Taco Soup

1 pd. lean hamburger meat (I often use turkey) browned with onions
1 can diced tomatoes1 can corn (drained)
1 can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
1 can refried beans
1 sm. can tomato sauce
1 packet taco seasoning
1 packet ranch seasoning
1-2 cups water (I only use 1)
fritos or tortilla chips (I use baked or WOW tortillas when I am trying to be healthy, when I am not I use fritos which taste the best!)
Sour cream and shredded cheese are optional toppings

Mix seasonings in with cooked meat, add all other ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hr. I often put this in my crockpot and just let it simmer on low all day! Serve over chips and sprinkle cheese on top.

Mediteranean Bread

2008-08-23T07:52:00.000-07:00

Mediteranean Bread (That doesn't look like it is spelled correctly-sorry)

pizza dough (I sometimes make it from scratch, but Pillsbury refridgerated pizza dough (next to canned biscuits) works great too.
Roll into a long rectangle.
2 tbslp. of pesto
1/3 cup of feta cheese
2 tblsp of chopped black olives
2 tblsp of chopped sun dried tomatoes

Mix together and spread on pizza dough. Roll pizza dough up, jelly roll style. Put on cookie sheet (sprayed with nonstick spray) and bake until golden brown at 350 degrees. I have no idea how long it takes :)I then slice this and serve it with a salad and fruit. White and red wines are good with this as well, and it makes a great appetizer for a party.

Grits and Greens

2008-08-23T07:50:00.000-07:00

Grits and Greens
1 pkg. 50%-less-fat pork sausage (such as Jimmie Dean)
You can also use turkey sausage
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup grated onion
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
4 ounces fresh baby spinach (about 5 cups) ( I use 2 pkgs of frozen, chopped spinach)
2 cups 1% low-fat milk
1 (14-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 1/4 cups uncooked quick-cooking grits1 tablespoon butter, cut into pieces
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper
Dash of ground nutmeg

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage to pan; cook 4 minutes or until browned, stirring to crumble. Add bell pepper, onion, and 1/4 teaspoon salt; sauté 3 minutes or until bell pepper is tender and sausage is done. Add spinach; cook 1 minute or until wilted. Remove pan from heat.Combine milk and broth in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Slowly add grits, stirring constantly. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or until thick and grits are tender, stirring frequently. Stir in butter, black pepper, red pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat; stir in remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and sausage mixture. Serve immediately. Yield: 4 servings

Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

2008-08-23T07:48:00.000-07:00

Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

***DOUGH***
1/4 cup warm water
1 cup milk-room temp.
1 large egg-beaten
1/4 cup butter-softened
1 tblsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
4 cups all purpose white flour or bread flour
1/2 pkg instant vanilla pudding mix
1 tblsp bread machine yeast
***FILLING***
1 cup brown sugar
1 tbslp cinnamon
1/4 cup butter-softened
***CREAM CHEESE CINNAMON FROSTING***
4 oz. cream cheese-softened
1/4 cup butter
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tblsp milk
1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Add the dough ingredients in the order listed to the bread machine and prepare using the dough setting. On a lightly floured surface, roll out to a 18 by 30 rectangle. The dough can also be handmade, if you use reg yeast you may want to let the rolls proof for 15-30 min after assembly.In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread the softened butter over the dough and evenly sprinkle on the sugar and cinnamon mixture. Starting at the long edge of the dough, rollup tightly. Mark the roll every 2 inches. Cut the cinnamon rolls and place into greased 8 or 9 inch baking pans 2" apart. COver and let rise in a warm, draft free place until almost double, approx. 1 hr. After rising, rolls should be touching each other and the sides of the pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.While baking mix cream cheese, butter, vanilla and milk. Add powdered sugar and cinnamon and mix until smooth. Spread on warm rolls and serve immediately.

Beef Tips

2008-08-23T07:46:00.000-07:00

Beef Tips
2 pkgs. stew meat
1 pkg. onion soup mix
1 can Sprite
1 can cream of mushroom soup

Place cubed meat in crock pot. Sprinkle onion soup over meat and spoon mushroom soup over top. Pour in can of Sprite. Do not stir. Cook on HIGH setting for four hours or LOW setting for eight hours. Serve over rice, noodles or mashed potatoes

Hamburger Steak

2008-08-23T07:45:00.000-07:00

Hamburger Steak

1 lb. hamburger meat
1 cup bread crumbs
1 small onion, grated
1 envelope dry onion mix
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
1 can mushroom soup
1 cup water

Mix together meat, milk, bread crumbs, egg and onion; chill. After chilled, pat out into patties. Flour each patty and brown in oil. Drain fat and add mushroom soup, dry onion soup mix and water. COok in oven for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. We eat Velveeta shells and cheese, green beans and sweet tea with this :) OR you can serve the meat and gravy over rice.

Hot Tamale Casserole

2008-08-23T07:44:00.000-07:00

Hot Tamale Casserole
1 can tamales
1 can refried beans
1 pkg. taco mix
cheddar cheese
4 flour tortillas
1 lb. hamburger meat
salsa

Cooke hamburger meat, drain and stir in package of taco mix. Start layering: put tamales on bottom of dish, flour tortillas, refried beans and then sprinkle with cheese. Then layer hamburger meat, more tortillas and salsa. Finish with more tortillas and cheese. Refridgerate overnight and then bake at 350 degrees until warm and cheese bubbles. Serve with sour cream and guacamole.

Chicken Spaghetti

2008-08-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

Chicken Spaghetti
1 chopped onion
1 (12) oz. pkg. spaghetti
1 can chicken broth
4 chicken breasts cooked, deboned
1 can Rotel1 can cream of chicken
1 can cream of mushroom
1/2 lb. box of Velveeta

Saute' onion in oleo until tender. Cook spaghetti until tender, cool in colander. Add all ingredients to chicken broth. Chop up 1/2 lb. Velveeta and stir in. You can add cheese to ingredients of casserole and on top as desired. Cook about 30 minutes in oven at 350 degrees until slightly browned and bubbly. Serve with salad and crusty rolls.

Bagel Sandwiches

2008-08-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

Meditteranean Bagel Sandwich
lightly toasted bagel
hummus
Cucumber
Lettuce (I used spinach leaves)
Tomato
sliced, smoked turkey

Pesto Chicken Bagel Sandwich
lightly toasted bagel
store bought pesto
Lettuce
Tomato
Provolone Cheese
Sliced Turkey or chicken

Bagel BLT
Toasted Bagel
Fat Free Mayo
Turkey
Bacon
Lettuce
Tomato

Triple Chocolate Covered Clusters

2008-08-23T07:34:00.000-07:00

1 (16 oz.) jar dry roasted peanuts
1 (16 oz. jar unsalted dry roasted peanuts
18 (2 oz.) chocolate bark squares, cut in half
2 cups semisweet chocolate morsels
1 (4 oz.) German chocolate baking squares, broken into pieces
1 9.75 oz. can salted whole cashews
1 tsp vanilla extract.

Cobine 1st 5 ingredents in a crockpot. Cover adn cook on low 2 hours or until melted. Stir chocolate misture. Add cahsews adn vanilla, stirring well to coat cashews. Drop nut mixture by heaping tblsp onto wax paper. Let stand until firm. Makes 60 candies.

Chicken Tortilla Soup-Crock Pot Meal

2008-08-23T07:30:00.001-07:00

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 10 oz. pkg. frozen whole kernel corn (thawed)
1 lg. onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, pressed
2 (14 oz.) cans chicken broth
1 (10 3/4) can tomato puree
1 (10 oz.) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (Rotel-I use Mild)
3/4 tsp salt
2 tsps ground cumin
1 tsp ground chili powder
1/8 tsp ground red pepper
1/8 tsp. ground black pepper
1 bay leaf
4 corn tortillas

Cobine first 13 ingredients in a crockpot. Cover and cook on High for 6 hours. Remove adn discard bay leaf. Cut tortillas into 1/4 inch strips. Pace on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake at 375 for 5 minutes, stir and bake 5 more or until crisp. Serve on top of soup.

"Baked" Potato Soup-Crockpot

2008-08-23T07:24:00.000-07:00

6 Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 large onion, minced
3 14 oz. cans chicken broth with roasted garlic
1/4 cup butter
2 1/2 tsps. salt
1 1/4 tsp. pepper
1 cup whipping cream
1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
3 tblsp. chopped fresh chives
1 8 oz. container sour cream
4 bacon slices, crumbled
Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Combine first 6 ingredients in a 5 qt. slow cooker. Voer and cook on high 4 hours, or on low 8 hours or until potato is tender. Mash mixture until potatoes are coasrly chopped and soup is thickened. Stir in sour cream and cheese.

Tomato Florentine Soup

2008-08-23T07:21:00.000-07:00

3 cups chicken broth
2 (14 1/2 oz.) cans diced tomatoes with basil, oregano and garlic, undrained
1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
1 cup chopped onion
1 1/2 tsps. minced garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 pkg. refrigerated cheese tortellini (or the frozen bag-just thaw them first)
shredded parmesan cheese

Combine 8 ing in a 4 qt slow cooker. Cover adn cook on low 5 1/2 hours;add pasta cook on low 30 minutes longer. Garnish with Parmesan.

Crockpot Extra Cheesy Mac and Cheese

2008-08-23T07:16:00.000-07:00

1 (8 oz.) pkg. shredded italian 3 cheese blend
1 (8 oz.) pkg. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 large eggs
1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
1 1/2 cups milk
1 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. dry mustard
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. black pepper
8 oz. small shell pasta

Combine cheeses in a bowl, set aside. Whisk together eggs and next 6 ingredients in a large bowl. Stir in pasta and 3 cups cheese mixture. Pour mixture into cooker, sprinkle with 3/4 cup cheese mixture. Cover and cook on low four hours. Sprinkle servings with cheese mixture.

Crock Pot Rosemary and Garlic Chicken

2008-08-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

10 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp. chopped, fresh rosemary
1 (5-6 lb.) roasting chicken
1/4 cup orange juice
1 tblsp. balsalmic vinegar

Combine minced garlic and chopped rosemary. Rinse chicken and pat dry. Loosen skin with fingertips and rub garlic mixture under skin. Place breasts down in slow cooker. Cook on high 1 hr. Reduce heat to low and cook 7 hours. Remove chicken from slow cooker, reserving drippings. Discard skin from chicken. Place a zip top freezer bag inside a 2 cup glass measuring cup, pour into freezer bag; let stand 10 minutes. seal bag, snip off 1 bottom corner of the bag. Drain drippings into a small sauce pan, stopping before fat layer reaches opening; discard fat. Add orange juice and vinegar to sauce pan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer ten minutes and pour over chicken before serving.

Don't let the steps intimidate you-it is quick and so good!

BBQ Muffins

2008-08-23T07:06:00.000-07:00

1 (12 oz.) can refrigerated can buttermilk biscuits
1/2 lb. lean ground beef
1/4 cup ketchup
1 1/2 tbsp. brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp. apple cider vinegar
1/4 tsp. chili powder
1/2 cup cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 375. Roll biscuits inot 5 inch circles. Press into muffin tins that have been sprayed with cooking spray. Brown beef and crumble. Drain. Stir spoon into muffin cups. Bake at 375 for 15 minutes. Sprinle with cheese and bake five more minutes

Shepard's Pie

2008-08-23T07:01:00.000-07:00

2 (17 oz.) pkg. beef tips
1 cup frozen whole kernel corn, thawed
1 cup frosen sweet peas, thawed
1 (24 oz.) package refrigerated mashed potatoes
1/2 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 cup 4 oz. shredded sharp Cheddar Cheese

Preheat oven to 350, Cook beef, spoon into casserole dish, top with corn and peas. Cook potatoes and spoon into bowl. Add cream cheese, butter and garlic powder;beat at med. speed with electric mixer until smooth. Spread potatoes over mixture and sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes.

Chicken Alfredo with Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

2008-08-23T06:56:00.000-07:00

8 oz. uncooked fettuccine

1 (1.6) package Alfredo sauce mix (I think Knorr is best)

1 1/2 cups milk

1 tbsp. butter

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg (optional)

2 (6 oz.) packages refrigerated grilled chicken breast strips (or I just cook chicken with salt and pepper)

1 oz. piece of Parmesan cheese shaved (or use the grated in a tub-not the powder)

1/2 cup thinkly sliced fresh baby spinach

1/3 cup oil packed dried tomatoes, thinly sliced

Cook fettucine according to package directions; drain.

Meanwhile, whisk together Alfredo sauce mix and milk in a large sauce pan. Add butter. Bring to a boil over medium high heat, whisking often. Reduce heat, and simmer 2 minutes. Stir in pepper and nutmeg, if desired. Combine sauce, chicken strips, and hot cooked pasta in a large bowl;toss well.

Kung Pao Chicken

2008-08-23T06:49:00.000-07:00

1 tbsp. canola oil
4 cups broccoli florets
1 tsp. bottled fresh ginger, divided
2 tbsp. water

1 lb. skinned and boned chicken breasts, cut into 1/4 inch strips
1/4 dried crushed red pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp. rice wine vinegar
2 tbsp. soy sauce
2 tbsp. hoisin sauce
2 tsp. bottled minced garlic
1 tsp. cornstarch
2 tbsp. coarsely chopped salted peanuts

Heat 1 tsp. oil in a large nonstick skillet over med high heat. Add broccoli and 1/2 tsp. ginger to pan. Saute one minute. Add 2 tbsp. water. COver and cook 2 minutes or until broccoli is crisp-tender. Remove broccoli from pan; keep warm.
Heat remaining 2 tsp. oil in pan;add remaining 1/2 tsp. ginner, chicken, and crushed red pepper. Cook 4 minutes or until chicken is lightly browned, stirring often.
Whisk together broth and nest five ingredients in a small bowl. Add broth mixture to pan;cook one minute or until mixture thickens, stirring constantly. Return broccoli mixture to pan;toss to coat. Sprinkle with peanuts.

Calories: 248
Fat: 8.6 g

I serve this over white or brown rice.

Crisp Garlic Chicken-A twist on Spaghetti Parmesan

2008-08-23T06:31:00.000-07:00

1 tsp. bottle minced garlic
1/4 cup olive oil
3/4 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp. pepper
4 skinned and boned chicken breasts

Preheat oven to 425. Combine garlic and olive oil in a small microwave-safe bowl;microwave at HIGH 30 to 45 seconds or until just warm.

Combine breadcrumbs, cheese, and pepper in a shallow dish. Dip chicken in warm olive oil;dredge in breadcrumb misture. Place chicken on a lightly greased baking sheet.

Bake at 425 for 20 to 25 mnutes or until chicken is golden.

Calories: 339 Fat: 13.5

I serve the chicken over a bed of spaghetti and marinara sauce.

Sesame Orange Chicken

2008-08-23T06:22:00.000-07:00

2 tbsp. sesame seeds, toasted
1 tbsp. grated orange rind
1/4 tsp. salt, divided
Dash of pepper
4 skinless and boneless chicken breasts
2 tsp. vegetable oil
1 tsp. butter
1 cup chikcen broth
1/3 cup orange juice
1 tbsp. whipping cream

To toast sesame seeds place a skillet over med high heat and add sesame seeds. Cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds or until sesame aroma is obvious and they are lightly toasted.

combine sesame seeds, orange rind, 1/8 tsp. salt, and pepper in a food processor;process until mixture resembles coarse meal.

Place chicken between 2 sheets of heavy duty plastic wrap;pound to 1/4 inch thickness, using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Sprinkle chicken evenly with remaining salt. Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over med heat until butter melts. Add chicken;cook 6 minutes on each side or until done. Remove chicken from pan;keep warm.

Add sesame mixture and broth to pan; bring to a boil. Cook 1 minute, stirring to loosen browned bits from skillet. Cook mixture about 3 minutes or until reduced to 2/3 cup. Add orange juice and cream; cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly. serve sauce over chicken.

Chicken has only 279 calories per serving!! I serve this with a salad and fruit.

Caramelized Onion Chicken

2008-08-23T06:19:00.000-07:00

1 lb. chicken breast tenders
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 small onion
1 tsp. olive oil
1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam
1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 tbsp. soy sauce
1 tsp. bottled minced ginger
1/2 tsp. dried rosemary

Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Saute onion in hot oil in a large skillet over medium high heat for 2 minutes. add chicken to pan; cook 8 minutes or until chicken is done, turning occasionally. Remove onion and chicken from pan, and set aside. Add jam and remaining ingredients to skillet;cook 2 minutes, sittiring constandly with a whisk to loosen browned bits from skillet. Return chicken mixture to pan;cook 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Seedless blackberry jam is also good with this recipe.

Cal: 247 per serving, 3 grams of fat.

I serve this with green beans and rice.

Three Cheese Chicken Penne

2008-08-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

1 tsp. olive oil
Vegetable cooking spray
1 8oz. package sliced, fresh mushrooms
1 small onion chopped
1 small red bell pepper
3 cups chopped fresh spinach
1 tbsp. chopped fresh oregano or 1 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. pepper

8 oz. penne uncooked

1 16 oz. container cottage cheese (I use reduced fat)
2 cups shredded roasted chicken (I use a Rotisserie chicken from deli)
1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 10 3/4 oz. can cream of chicken soup, undiluted (I use fat free)

Cook pasta and drain.

Preheat oven to 425. Heat olive oil in a large skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat until hot. Add mushrooms, onion, and bell pepper; saute 4 minutes or until tender. Add spinach, oregano, and pepper;saute 3 minutes or just until spinach wilts. Set aside.

Place cottage cheese in a food processor or blender and blend until very smooth. Combine cottage cheese, spinach mixture, cooked pasta, chicken, 3/4 cup Cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, milk, and soup in a large bowl;stir until well blended. Spoon mixture into a 2 qt baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle remaining cheeses on top. Bake for 25 minutes or until browned and bubbly.

You can bake the pasta in individual ramekins, bake for only 15 minutes

Easy Chicken Fried Rice

2008-08-22T21:07:00.000-07:00

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2/3 cup orange juice
3 tbsp. teriyaki sauce
2 tbsp. soy sauce
2 tbsp. olive oil
1 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1 1/2 garlic powder.
2 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
2 small red onions, cut into wedges

Marinate chicken and vegetables in above ingredients, in a large freezer bag for thirty minutes.

Grill or cook in skillet until done, cut into bite sized pieces.

3 tbsp. veg oil
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 10 oz. package frozen peas
5 cups cooked long grain rice
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tsp. chili-garlic sauce (optional-it is in Asian section)

Heat 1 tbsp. oil in a large nonstick skillet over med high heat, add eggs and gently stir one minute or until soft scrambled. Remove eggs from skillet, cool and cut into bite size pieces. Set aside.

heat remaining 2 tbsp. oil in skillet, add reserved chicken, vegetables, and peas. Stir fry 2 minutes. Add rice and remaining ingredients, stir fry 5 minutes. Stir in reserved eggs.

Southwest Corn and Sausage Dressing

2008-08-22T21:02:00.001-07:00

1 lb. ground pork sausage
1 med. onion
1 (8.5 oz.) package corn muffin mix
1 (14 1/2 oz.) can cream style corn
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (4.5 oz.) can chopped green chiles, drained
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Cook sausage and onion in a large skillet over med high heat, stirring until sausage crumbles and is no longer pink. Drain well.

Combine corn muffin mix and next three ingredients in a large bowl. Stir in cooked sausage mixture, black beans, green chiles, and cheese. Spoon cornbread mixture into a lightly greased (I use cooking spray) 11x7 inch casserole dish.

Bake at 350 degrees for one hour or until golden brown and set.

Quick Shrimp Chowder

2008-08-22T20:57:00.000-07:00

2 tbsp. butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 (10 3/4 oz.) cans cream of potato soup
3 1/2 cups milk
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper
1 1/2 lb. med size frozen RAW shrimp, peeled and deveined.
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese

Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat'add oinon, and saute until tender. Stir in cream of potato soup, milk and pepper;bring to a boil. Add shrimp; reduce heat, and simmer, stirring often for five minutes or until shrimp turn pink. Stir in cheese until melted.

Broccoli, Ham and Cheese Soup

2008-08-22T20:53:00.000-07:00

5 large baking potatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 14 oz. cans chicken broth
1 12 oz. package diced cooked ham
1 1/2 broccoli florets
2 tsp. bottled minced garlic
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. pepper
2 cups whipping cream
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Combine first 8 ing. in a 5 qt. slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH one hour, reduce heat to LOW and cook 6 hours or until potatoes are tender.

Process half of soup mixture in a food processor until smooth. Return pureed soup, whipping cream, and 2 cups cheese to slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW 30 more minutes or until thoroughly heated. Top with additional cheese if desired.

Loaded Potato Soup

2008-08-22T20:48:00.000-07:00

5 large baking potatoes
1/4 cup butter
1 med. onion
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1 qt. half and half (I use fat free)
3 cups milk
1 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. ground white pepper
1 1/4 cups shredded Cheddar Cheese
8 cooked and crumbled bacon slices

Prick each potato several times with a fork. Microwave on HIGH for 20 minutes or until done.

Peel potatoes, and coarsely mash with a fork.

Melt butter in a Dutch oven over med heat; add onion, and saute' until tender. Add flour, stirring until smooth. Stir in potatoes, half and half, and next three ing. Cook over low heat about fifteen minutes or until thoroughly heated.

Top each serving with cheese and crumbled bacon

Club Wraps

2008-08-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

1/2 cup creamy mustard-mayonnaise blend (Dijionnaise)
4 ten inch flour tortillas
1/2 lb. thinly sliced honey ham lunch meat
1/2 lb. thinly sliced smoked turkey lunch meat
2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
1 cup shredded mozzarella or sliced smoked provolone cheese
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1/2 small red onion, diced
8 fully cooked bacon slices
1/2 tsp. pepper

Spread mustard mayonnaise blend onto tortillas, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Layer turkey and next six ing. over tortillas, sprinkle with pepper. Roll up tortillas and secure with toothpicks, and cut in half diagonally.

Strawberry Smoothie

2008-08-22T20:42:00.000-07:00

1 (10 oz.) container frozen strawberries in light syrup

1 (32 oz.) low fat vanilla yogurt

Blend and serve

Ham And Swiss Muffins

2008-08-22T20:35:00.000-07:00

3 Tbsp. Butter

1 Med. Sized Onion, finely chopped

1 1/2 cups all purpose baking mix

2 cups (8 oz.) shredded Swiss or Cheddar cheese, divided

1/2 cup milk

2 tbsp. Dijon mustard

1 large egg

1 cup finely chopped cooked ham (I buy the prepackaged chopped ham)

Poppy seeds

Preheat oven to 425. Melt butter in skillet over medium high heat. Add onion and saute three to five minutes or until tender.

Combine baking mix adn half of cheese in a large bowl; make a well in center of mixture.

Whisk together milk, Dijon mustard, and egg; add to cheese mixture, stirring just until moistened. Stir in onion and ham. Spoon into lightly greased muffin pans, filling two-thirds full. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese and poppy seeds if desired.