tomato  Bolognese meat sauce

Bolognese is a rich meaty tomato sauce that is a signature dish from Bologna, Italy. In the capital city of Emilia- Romagna, Bolognese is typically served over tagliatelle pasta, or other thick noodles.( but almost never over spaghetti)Deeply rich and meaty, as opposed to saucy, it is the trait that is different in a Bolognese sauce verses spaghetti meat sauce.

There are as many variations of this meat sauce as there people who make it. These variations are the cause of sometimes heated debates. Garlic or no garlic, red or white wine, the amount of tomatoes, did the sauce really originate in Bologna. etc, etc. However the basis of a good Bolognese stays the same. A good Bolognese is a labor of love. But if you have a prep plan in place and a little extra time it really is an easy sauce to make. And you can make it ahead of time , it’s freezer friendly too!! So make a double batch one for one and one to freeze for a ready made meal.

Notes for this tomato Bolognese meat sauce

It may seem like a long list of ingredients, to make this tomato Bolognese meat sauce but note that most are pantry staples you probably have on hand.

I use only ground beef to make my Bolognese. If you prefer, you can use a mix of beef, pork or Italian sausage.

A good Bolognese sauce benefits from the saltiness and smokiness of a cured meat such as pancetta or bacon. I prefer to use pancetta, but use bacon if that is easier for you to get or if it is what you have on hand.

Onions, carrots and celery also known as sofritto in Italian are non-negotiable in a Bolognese sauce. You can chop them by hand or use a food processor to save time on the chopping.

My tomato Bolognese meat sauce is not a complicated recipe and my version doesn’t stray from the classic. It always starts the same way with a sofritto.

So here’s the thing to make this tomato Bolognese meat sauce  recipe easy and stress free you need to plan ahead. Gather the  best ingredients , chop the vegetables before and store them in the fridge . make a large when you have time, portion it, and freeze for quick meals.

These shortcuts will deliver a delicious, rich sauce without the stress. ENJOY!!!

Ingredients

• 3 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 1/2 lb. lean ground beef
• 1 cup diced pancetta
• 1 cup each chopped onion+ carrots + celery
• 2 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 28 oz. crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• pinch of nutmeg
• 1 Lb. tagliatelle
• Grated parmesan and Italian parsley for serving

Instructions

1. Start by cooking the pancetta in the olive oil over medium high heat in a stock pot or Dutch oven.
2. Once the pancetta is crispy add the onion, celery. carrots and garlic. Cook until soft and translucent.
3. Add in the ground beef and cook until brown. Then deglaze the pot with the red wine waiting until it evaporates before adding the beef stock ,crushed tomatoes and milk. Add the pinch of nutmeg and a few bay leaves.
4. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours
5. Cook your pasta el dente
6. Toss in tis delicious pasta sauce. Top with freshy grated parmesan cheese and chopped Italian parsley. ENJOY!!!

Italian style cabbage rolls

Sometimes the most meaningful recipes come from unexpected places. This Italian style cabbage rolls recipe, inspired by my ex-mother-laws traditional Polish cabbage rolls, holds a special place in my heart. While life may have taken us in different paths, her recipe remains – one that I’ve recreated with a little Italian flair. I added classic  Italian ingredients, like parmesan cheese, fresh herbs and my easy marinara sauce. As someone who likes to experiment in the kitchen, I couldn’t resist blending her recipe with  Italian flavors that remind me of my roots. The result is a dish that pays homage to her heritage while incorporating a taste of mine.

Tender cabbage leaves are stuffed with a beef, cheese and rice filling. The rolls are then laid on a bed of my marinara sauce topped with more marinara before being baked to a delicious perfection. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

How to make Italian style cabbage rolls easy

At first glance, Italian -style cabbage rolls might seem like a dauting recipe, but with a good prep plan and a step by step approach, this dish becomes easy to make.

PREP PLAN FOR SUCCESS

1. Softening the cabbage is one of the most important steps, and it’s also something you can do in advance. Boil the cabbage , separate the leaves and store in an airtight  container for up to two days. This way, when it’s time to assemble the rolls your cabbage is ready to go.
2. Make the marinara the day before: The tomato sauce can be make a day ahead or do like I do and always have it on hand. Marinara sauce is one of the easiest sauces to prepare in advance and keep frozen in different size containers for easy recipe building.
3.  You can also prepare the meat and rice filling ahead of time. Combine the ingredients, cover and refrigerate.
4.  Once the cabbage , sauce and filling are ready you can assemble the cabbage rolls . At this point bake the rolls for immediate use or they can be frozen either already baked or frozen unbaked , thawed out and baked when you are ready to serve,

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cabbage
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 1/2 lb. ground beef
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup grated parmesan
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley
• salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups my easy marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage by removing as much of the core as possible. Then place the cabbage in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes or until you can easily separate the leaves with thongs. You may need to help the leaves off using a knife. Set aside to cool. The smaller leaves can be frozen  for soup.
2.  Make the filling in a saute pan in 2 tbsp. of olive oil cook the onion and garlic until soft and translucent. Then add the ground beef and cook until brown.
3. Using the same water from the cabbage cook the rice for 5-7 minutes or until the rice is cooked al dente. Drain the rice
4. Mix the cooked ground beef mixture with rice. Add the egg , parmesan, Italian parsley and 1 cup of the marinara sauce, salt and pepper to taste mix until well combined
5. Assemble the cabbage rolls:  Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface place 2 tbsp.  of the filling in the center . Fold the flaps over the filling then roll up jelly roll style.
6.  Line an oven proof casserole dish with 1 cup of my easy marinara sauce. place the filled cabbage rolls on top. Top with the remaining 2 cups of marinara.
7.  Bake in a preheated 375-degree oven for 35- 45 minutes. Top with additional Italian parsley . ENJOY!!!

Arancini Italian rice balls

Arancini  are golden, Italian fried rice balls filled with a rich , delicious meat sauce and creamy mozzarella cheese. They are  an Italian street food that can be found all over Italy.  These delicious rice balls  whose name means “little oranges” in Italian due to their shape and color,  are a beloved snack or appetizer enjoyed across Italy.  With variations reflecting  the unique flavors of different regions. From the classic meat and mozzarella- filled version to modern twist featuring saffron, peas or even vegetarian fillings. Whether served at an elegant dinner party or grabbed from a street vendor , arancini are the perfect blend of texture and taste- crunchy on the outside, tender and rich on the inside.

 Steps to Make this Arancini Italian rice ball recipe easy

Making arancini can be simplified with a well- though-out prep plan.

Step one: Prep the rice or risotto a day or two in advance and refrigerate it.

Step two: The day your making arancini step up a workstation with everything you need: a bowl of your risotto , cubed mozzarella, meat filling, seasoned breadcrumbs and beaten egg.

Step Three: Shape the rice balls around the filling, dip in the egg and roll in the breadcrumbs. Arrange them on a parchment lined baking sheet. This step can be done hours ahead or even a day ahead- just cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you are ready to fry.

Step 4: Fry the arancini in hot oil until golden and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. If you’re short on time or prefer a lighter version , bake them in the oven or air fryer. Serve hot.

By breaking the recipe into manageable steps and preparing in advance, you will find making arancini far less intimidating , leaving you more time to enjoy these crispy Italian rice balls.

Ingredients

• 4 cups leftover rice or risotto
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
• FOR THE MEAT FILLING
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 1 cup chopped celery + 1 cup peeled and chopped carrot
• 1 cup diced pancetta or bacon
• 1/2 lb. ground beef + 1/2 lb. ground pork
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 cup water
• 1 Tbsp. dried Italian herbs
• 1 cup peas (optional)
•  Ingredients to assemble:
• 4 mozzarella sticks cut into 4 pieces
• INGREDIDENTS FOR THE COATING
• 1 egg slightly beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley

Instructions

1. Mix the cooked rice with 1 egg , 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese and the Italian parsley, salt and pepper to taste. Set aside while preparing the meat filling.
2. To make the meat sauce: Start in 2 Tbsp. of olive oil by cooking the pancetta or bacon until crisp, then add the celery, onion, garlic and carrots and cook until soft . Once the vegetables are soft add the meats and cook until browned breaking up the meat as it cooks.
3. Add the wine and let it evaporate before adding the tomato paste and water. Bring to a boil, then turn down to a simmer cover and cook for one hour. If using peas add them to the meat sauce the last 10 minutes .
4. This recipe uses about 3 cups of meat filling any leftovers can be used for pasta sauce.
5. To assemble and fry; the rice should be warm for easier forming , if the rice has be in the fridge warm in the microwave.
6. Wet your hands this will make forming the rice balls easier. Take about 1 Tbsp. of rice and flatten into your cupped hand. Place 1Tbsp. of the meat filling  and 1 piece of the mozzarella in the center and roll into a ball making sure all the filling is covered .
7. Then in a bowl mix the breadcrumbs with the parmesan cheese and Italian parsley. In another bowl whisk the egg slightly
8. Dip the arancini balls first in the egg and then in the breadcrumb mixture. Now refrigerate for 30 minutes or even overnight.
9. Then bring 3 cups of canola – olive oil blend to medium high heat and fry the rice balls until golden brown about 5 minutes.
10. Drain on absorbent paper . serve hot. ENJOY!!!!!

 reduction wine sauce Filet Mignon

Filet mignon, renowned for it’s buttery tenderness and mild flavor transforms into something extra special when paired wild a luxurious wine reduction sauce. This simple yet elegant addition combines the bold richness of red wine with shallots and fresh herbs creating a sauce that enhances  the steak’s natural juiciness  A wine reduction sauce is surprisingly easy to make. With just a few high – quality ingredients and a bit of patience, you can make a dish that is restaurant- worthy. Pair your filet mignon with this sauce and serve with roasted vegetables and creamy  potatoes for a meal  perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge.

Three tips for perfect  reduction wine sauce  filet mignon

1. Allow your filet mignon to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking, and a perfectly seared crust and a juicy interior.
2. Season generously both sides of the steak . Use a heavy bottomed skillet like cast iron. Preheat it well before adding the oil . Sear the the filets 4-5 minutes per side for  medium rare and a beautiful crust. Cook longer or shorter for your desired doneness. Let the meat rest to retain juices before slicing.
3. After searing steaks deglaze the pan with the wine , scraping  up the flavorful bits.  TIME MANAGEMENT. In the restaurant we used to say “timing is everything” and timing is everything when your cooking time

Ingredients

• 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz. each)
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 6 Tbsp. butter divided
• 1 small minced shallot
• a  few sprigs of rosemary and thyme
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup beef stock

Instructions

1. Start by patting the steaks dry with paper towels. Then generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a cast- iron skillet over medium high heat until smoking hot. Add the olive oil and let it shimmer. Place the steaks in the pan and sear for 4-5 minutes pre side for medium rare.
3.  Add 2 Tbsp. of the butter tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for added flavor, while cooking.
4. Remove the steaks from the skillet tent  with foil while preparing the wine reduction sauce.
5. In the same pan , add 2 Tbsp. of  butter and the shallots cook until the shallots are soft and fragrant ( 4-5 minutes). Add the red wine and beef stock scrap up the brown bits from the bottom ,  add the rosemary and thyme and let it simmer until reduced by half about 10 minutes. Then whisk in the remaining 2 Tbsp. of cold butter cubes to create a glossy finish.
6. Slice the steaks on a diagonal pour the sauce over it. ENJOY!!!!

Meatball Sunday sauce

There’s something special about Italian Sundays, and  meatball Sunday sauce where life slows down, and the kitchen becomes the heart of the home. For many Italian families,  including my family, Sundays  and sauce go together like peanut butter and jelly. Sunday sauce- a tradition that speaks to generations of love, warmth and togetherness. My easy and quick version,  with tender, flavorful, meatballs is tribute to those cherished moments and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. It’s more than just a meal-it’s a ritual, an experience, and for many, a tradition passed down through generations.

Sunday sauce doesn’t have to be an all- day affair to feel like a special home- cooked meal. My version is designed for the modern home cook- easy to make, quick to assemble, with just 1 1/2 hours of cook time. It’s a perfect recipe to prep ahead of time. With tender meatballs and a rich tomato sauce, this Meatball Sunday sauce recipe delivers all the flavor of a traditional Italian Sunday meal without hours in the kitchen.

Why this Meatball Sunday sauce is prefect for busy days

Minimal prep: The ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, no need for fancy techniques or equipment.

Quick Assembly: With a streamlined process, you can have the sauce simmering and the meatballs prepped in under 30 minutes.

Make- ahead friendly: Both the meatballs and the sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for three days or frozen for up to three months. And then reheated for an effortless ready made meal that taste like you spend the whole day cooking.

Versatile: This Sunday sauce can be served over pasta, polenta, or even on it’s own with a side of crusty bread.

Meatball Sunday sauce doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special- this recipe proves that a hearty, flavor meal can come together easily. Whether you enjoy it just made or make ahead, this dish is  guaranteed to bring  joy and Italian tradition to your table.

Ingredients For the Meatballs

• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
• 1 Tbsp. finely minced garlic
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onions
• 1 Lb. lean ground beef
• Salt and pepper to taste
• INGREDIENTS FOR the Sauce
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 small onion
• 1 handful Italian parsley
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 2  San Manzano 14 oz. crushed tomatoes
• 1 San Manzano  14 oz. can tomato sauce
• 1 Tbsp. oregano
• 1 cup water from rinsing out the tomato cans
• A few fresh basil leaves
• 1 Tbsp. butter

Instructions

1. Start by making the sauce. Chop the onion, garlic and Italian parsley into almost a paste. Then in 2 Tbsp. of olive oil over medium high heat saute the paste until soft and fragrant.
2. Add the tomatoes rinse out the cans with a little water and add to the stock pot. Bring to a slow simmer. cover and simmer for 1 hour. In the meantime make the meatballs:  Preheat your oven to 375- degrees In a bowl add the eggs, milk, cheese and breadcrumbs. Let sit for 10 minutes. Then add  the rest of the meatball ingredients  except for the ground beef and mix until well combined. Then add the ground beef, and mix just until well mixed. With wet hands form the meat into golf size balls. You  should have 10 meatballs with this amount of ingredients.
3. Bake the meatballs on a parchment lined cookie sheet for 10 -12 minutes or until just beginning to brown.
4. After the sauce has been simmering for 1 hour. Add the baked meatballs and simmer the Sunday sauce for 30 minutes longer. Add 1 Tbsp. of butter for a rich finish, and fresh basil. ENJOY!!!!

Sausage mushroom sauce polenta

If your looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and delicious, sausage mushroom sauce polenta is what to make. This dish is the epitome of rustic Italian cooking, blending savory spicy sausage, earthy mushrooms, and velvety polenta into a meal that warms your heart and soul.  Whether served as a casual family meal or Saturday night dinner with friends, it’s a guaranteed hit.

Tips for making sausage mushroom sauce polenta

1. Choose the right sausage and mushrooms: When I make this dish i like using spicy Italian sausage for it’s bold flavors, and pairs well with cremini mushrooms. The sausage adds a savory depth, while the earthy mushrooms balance the richness. of course you can use any mushroom that you prefer or mild Italian sausage. A splash of red wine makes the sauce even more flavorful- trust me, it’s worth it.
2. Slow cooked  polenta is key: polenta reminds me of my Italian childhood- it’s comfort food through and through. Stirring the polenta slowly and consistently ensures it turns out creamy and lump-free. Adding parmesan makes it indulgent. the way my family used to enjoy
3. Layer flavors: One trick I learned is to season each layer. Saute the sausage and mushrooms with onion and garlic , then let the sauce simmer gently. This brings out deep, complex flavors that  makes this dish delicious and unforgettable. Enjoy every moment while making this- it’s one of those meals where the love you put into it really shines through!!!

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 lb. sliced cremini  mushrooms
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 1 lb. spicy Italian sausage crumbles
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• salt and pepper to taste
• INGREDIENTS FOR THE POLENTA
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
• 2 cups polenta
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Start by making the sauce in a saute pan over medium high heat, in the olive oil cook the mushrooms until beginning to brown. Then add the onions and garlic and continue cooking until soft and translucent.
2. Then add in the sausage cook until brown. Deglaze the pan with the red wine, waiting until it evaporates before  adding in the marinara sauce and simmer for 15-20 minutes. In the meantime make the polenta.
3. In a sauce pan add the stock and milk. Bring to boil , then lower the heat to a simmer. Slowly add in the cornmeal, stirring continuously. When the polenta begins to thicken about 10 minutes , add in the grated parmesan, parsley, salt and pepper.  Adjust the consistency, if to dry add more stock. It should be the consistency of mash potatoes. Add in the Italian parsley. Continue cooking for 5 minutes longer.
4. Spread the polenta on a platter top with the sausage mushroom sauce top with additional parmesan top with chopped Italian parsley. ENJOY!!!

 Italian Stracotto  pot roast

Italian Stracotto pot roast is a recipe common in most regions of Northern and Central Italy. Stracotto which translates to  overcooked in Italian is a tender, slow cooked pot roast. It’s the kind of dish the fills your kitchen with that irresistible  warm aromas , drawing everyone to the table in anticipation.

Unlike a typical roast that might be seared and cooked quickly, stracotto embraces the art of slow cooking. The result is a piece of meat so tender it practically  melts in your mouth, full of deep , rich flavors of the cooking liquid. Traditional make with cuts of beef chuck or beef brisket that thrive in a long, slow braise. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, the kind you linger over with a glass of wine and good conversation.

Why I love this Italian Stracotto pot roast

This recipe is so lovable because it’s a perfect blend of simplicity, tradition and comfort. Stracotto celebrates the art of slow cooking where time transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The tender beef, infused with flavors of wine, herbs and tomatoes feels like I am a  little girl in my mothers kitchen.

What I like most is how easy and versatile this pot roast recipe is. With just 15 minutes of prep time and 3 hours of cook time you have a meal that’s steeped in tradition and it’s delicious. Not only is it easy to make it’s versatile too. You can serve it with polenta, mashed potatoes or even pasta to soak up the rich savory sauce.

For me Italian stracotto pot roast isn’t just a meal , it’s a connection to family, tradition, and the simple joys of Italian cooking. Every bite has the flavors of my childhood , and I love that it can create those same cherished memories for others. Whether served on a special occasion or as a hearty Sunday dinner, Italian stracotto pot roast is a timeless recipe that showcases the warmth and love of Italian cooking. Try it for yourself, and let me know your experience with this recipe. I love hearing from you and it helps others . THANKS!!!

Ingredients

• 3-4 Lbs. chuck roast
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 cup diced pancetta
• 2 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 1 cup each chopped onion+ carrots + celery
• 1 cup red wine
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 14 oz. can crushed tomatoes
• a few sprigs of rosemary, thyme and a few bay leaves
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Start by salt and peppering the meat. Then in a dutch oven in the olive oil over medium high heat sear the meat on all sides.
2. Remove and in the same pot add the pancetta and cook until crisp . then add in the carrot, celery and onions and cook until soft and translucent.
3. deglaze the pan with the red wine waiting until in evaporates before adding the beef stock. Then add in the stock, marinara sauce , the herbs and return the meat back to the dutch oven.
4. Simmer covered for 2 1/2 -3 hours or until the meat is fork tender. ENJOY!!!!

  Italian baked stuffed eggplant

When I was growing up , my mother would make this incredible Italian baked stuffed eggplant. It was one of those dishes that filled the house with the warm, familiar comforting aromas of garlic, herbs and bubbling cheese. For her it wasn’t just about creating a meal, it was about bringing the family together.

I still remember standing on tiptoes to peek into the kitchen watching her scoop out the eggplants with such precision that even as a child somehow I knew she had done it many times before. She always said the secret was in the balance of the ingredients- the sweetness of the roasted  eggplant, the heartiness of the Italian sausage and the creaminess of the cheese. It was a dish that transformed humble ingredients into something delicious.

Today , I’m sharing my mother’s recipe with a few modern twist of my own. This dish is my way of keeping those cherished memories alive and sharing them with my own family – and now with you.

Tips for an easier Italian baked stuffed Eggplant recipe

1. Use small eggplant: Opt for baby  eggplant or smaller globe eggplants. They require less scooping and cook faster.
2. Skip the Pre- salting: Modern eggplants are usually less bitter, so you can skip salting them to save time.
3.  Pre-cook the eggplant shells: Roast the hollowed -out eggplant halves before stuffing. This softens the flesh reducing cook time.
4. Simplify the filling: Use pre- cooked or leftover rice.  Also this Italian stuffed eggplant recipe can be made ahead of time making it the perfect option for busy schedules or holiday entertaining. To prepare in advance, assemble the stuffed eggplant by hollowing them out, preparing the filling and stuffing the shells. Cover and store the assembled eggplants  in the refrigerator up to a day ahead. When ready to cook, transfer them to baking dish cover with foil and baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from the cold refrigerator.

Ingredients

• 4 small eggplant
• 3 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 1 small chopped onion
• 2 Italian sausage links casings removed
• 2  cups cooked rice
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

1.  Pre heat your oven to 400- degrees
2. start by cleaning the eggplant. Then cut in half with a paring knife remove the flesh from the eggplant being sure to not to cut through the skin. Then drizzle with half the olive oil. salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pre bake the eggplant shells in a preheated 400- degree oven for 12-15 minutes. or until softened.
4. In the mean time prepare the filling. In a large saute pan in the remaining olive oil cook the onion and garlic until soft and translucent. Then add in the sausage and cook until brown. Breaking it up as you go.
5. Remove from the fire and mix in the cooked rice, egg,  half of the grated parmesan , one cup of the marinara, egg, parsley, salt and pepper. Mix well.
6.  Divide the filling among the prebaked eggplant shells top each one with the remaining marinara , grated parmesan and the shredded mozzarella.
7. Re bake the filled eggplant for an additional 15 minutes. Turning on the broiler the last 5 minutes. Top with additional fresh Italian parsley. ENJOY!!!

creamy Italian sausage risotto

Creamy Italian sausage risotto. The perfect marriage of savory sausage , creamy Arborio rice, and Italian herbs is the perfect dish for cozy nights or special gatherings. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of Arborio rice with in a  the savory richness of Italian sausage, simmered in a flavorful broth and finished with a touch of cream. Whether you’re a seasoned risotto lover or trying it for the first time, this dish is a foolproof way to elevate your table.

Three tips for success when making creamy Italian sausage risotto

1. Warm your broth: Always warm your broth to maintain the temperature of the risotto. Adding cold broth slows the cooking process and makes the risotto less creamy . Keep the broth on low heat in a separate pan and add it a ladle at a time, while stirring.
2.  Toast the rice: before adding any liquid lightly toast the rice along with the sausage. This step enhances the nutty flavor and helps the rice hold it’s texture as it absorbs the broth.
3. Stir often: Stir often,  stirring releases the starch from the rice, creating a creamy consistency. Creamy Italian sausage risotto is a comforting and flavorful restaurant quality dish that brings  the heart of Italian cooking to your table. Simple, satisfying and sure to impress- enjoy every delicious bite.

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 small chopped  shallot
• 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 1/2 lb. Italian sausage casings removed
• 2 cups Arborio rice
• 1 cup white wine
• 5 cups chicken stock warmed
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 Tbsp. butter
• 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley

Instructions

1. In the olive oil over medium high heat cook the sausage in a large saute pan over medium high heat until brown , breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Add the garlic and cook until soft.
2. Then add the rice and toast for a few minutes
3. Deglaze the pan with the wine waiting until it evaporates, then beginning adding the warm broth by ladle full while stirring continuously and waiting until it evaporates before repeating the process until all the chicken stock is added . this process will take 15 -20 minutes.
4. Once the rice is fork tender and creamy stir in the parmesan, heavy cream, Italian parsley, and butter. Mix until well combined and heated through .
5. Adjust your seasonings top with more parmesan and parsley. ENJOY!!!!

Stove top Pot roast

This easy stove top pot roast makes a delicious dinner, perfect for family meals or holiday dinners. With melt in your mouth juicy beef cooked with potatoes and carrots until tender in a flavorful beef gravy.

When it comes to comfort food nothing beats a hearty pot roast. This easy stove -top pot roast is a timeless classic, every bite will melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with warm inviting aromas. Perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, pasta or with crusty bread.

Why You will love this stove top pot roast recipe

Simple ingredients; You only need a handful of pantry ingredients and fresh produce to create a delicious meal

One-pot wonder: Everything cooks together in one pot with just 15 minutes of prep time and 2 1/2 hours of cook time.

Delicious flavor: The beef slow cooks to tender perfection, while the potatoes and carrots soak up all the self make gravy.

This stove-top pot roast is proof to the magic of slow-cooked meals that fill your home with warmth. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion , this hearty dish is sure to impress family and friends. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out- I would love to hear your thoughts. Happy cooking!!!!

Ingredients

• 3 Lb. piece of chuck roast
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 2 onions sliced
• 3-4 cloves of garlic
• 1 cup red wine
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• a few bay leaves
• 4 large carrots peeled and cut into large pieces
• 4 medium potatoes cut in half
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Salt and pepper the meat Then in a dutch oven over medium high heat in the olive oil sear the meat on all sides. Remove and set aside
2. In the same pan add the onion and garlic cook until soft and translucent. Deglaze the pan with the red wine. Waiting until it evaporates before adding the beef stock, bay leaves and marinara sauce.
3. Return the meat to the dutch oven cover and simmer for 2-21/2 hours. or until the meat is fort tender. Then add the carrots and potatoes and cook for an additional 15 – 20 minutes or until the vegetables are fort tender. Top with fresh Italian parsley. ENJOY!!!!