The recipes here are favorites for at least one of the kids or myself, and tailored to three people with some leftovers. In most cases I have pulled the base if not the entire recipe from one or more sources, and have noted links where applicable. I have no formal training--just YouTube videos, Internet blogs and experimentation--so these are more for the kids in case they want to know how I made something that they remember liking. Of course, if you want a sample of what it is like to eat at the Stein household feel free to try some of the things found here.
This meatloaf began as a Halloween-themed recipe I found on the Internet. However, my son and I liked it so much I cut the recipe into a third of the original, and cut out the "zombie-style" decorations for cooking any time of the year. Even though I usually use bison, the bacon around it and vegetables inside it keep the meat moist.
What is better than a cheeseburger? How about a deep-fried version? While these do take some effort to put together, the rest of the process is quick and easy. Plus you may freeze uncooked ones, so is something you may prepare well in advance. When ready to deep fry them you may put them in frozen. However doing that I will usually let them thaw about 10 minutes and pat them down so there are no water droplets or ice crystals on the outside.
This recipe is a take on the sliders you find at White Castle. For the buns you may use a pre-packaged variety or use the recipe for Quick Buns. Also, instead of the pre-packaged onion soup mix, you may use one of the copy-cat recipes for that which may be found on the Internet. I have not tried any of those yet, though. And of course, like any burger, you can add whatever toppings fit your fancy. Mushrooms with Monterey Jack cheese, or bacon are some of my favorites.
This is a simple, one skillet dish that is good for a quick meal on a cold night. Plus it reheats well. It is honestly not the most exciting meal, but good comfort food. I think it could use some tweaks, though. Total cook time is about 45 minutes.
Except in certain cases (like breads or making a roux), measurements are estimates. Spices I usually eye then adjust with tasting. Pepper should be freshly ground to get the best flavor.
The following abbreviations are used in the recipes:
C: cup
T: tablespoon
t: teaspoon
lb: pound
oz: ounce
g: gram
fl oz: fluid ounce
in: inch
ft: foot/feet
1T = 3t
1/4C = 8T
8fl oz = 1C