I can’t believe it’s the end of March already! Tim’s big 40 is coming up in a few weeks, so I am mentally preparing for his party. This week, I’m showing you a few of my go-to meals when I’m trying to keep things simple and effortless. Sometimes you just want to chuck everything into a pot and leave it to simmer. And that’s exactly when these “set it and forget it” recipes come in clutch!
Mexican Monday: Mexican Crock Pot Chicken
I crave Tex-Mex flavors at least once a week. With a good old fashioned slow cooker, six ingredients, and a few hands-off hours, my cravings are satisfied every time!
Hot tips
- Plan ahead — this chicken takes about three hours to cook.
- Make sure you like the salsa you add, as it affects the flavor of the chicken. My go-to is mango salsa!
- Use two forks or meat claws to shred the chicken.
- I like to keep things simple and enjoy this chicken with cilantro lime rice or stuffed into a tortilla wrap. If you’re feeling fancy, make it into a burrito bowl or taco salad with all your favorite toppings.
Noodle Tuesday: Pasta Aglio e Olio
15 minutes for a pasta dish that takes me back to Italy is a huge win in my book. It’s garlicky, a bit spicy, and truly effortless to make.
Hot tips
- Use spaghetti, fettuccine, linguine, or another long pasta.
- Remember to save some pasta water! It’s essential for creating the sauce.
- Adjust the flavors to your liking. Add more garlic, skip the red pepper flakes, etc.
- Save the leftovers to enjoy with tomorrow’s meal! Or, if you don’t think they’ll last until tomorrow (I don’t blame you), make a double batch.
Comfort Food Wednesday: Braised Beef with Mushrooms
The magical transformation of slow-cooked beef will always amaze me. Whenever I’m looking for a low-maintenance meal that feels like a warm hug, this braised beef hits the spot. Plus, the whole family loves it!
Hot tips
- Use chuck roast, brisket, oxtail, or bone-in short ribs.
- This Dutch oven is my favorite for braising!
- Sear the beef until it is well-browned for maximum flavor.
- Add all your favorite veggies like celery, carrots, potatoes, and garlic.
One-Pan Thursday: Sheet Pan Shrimp and Veggies
Sheet pan dinners are basically part of my personality by now — I’m obsessed with the easy clean-up! Toss a bunch of shrimp and veggies onto a pan, season it up, and bake for 10 minutes.
Hot tips
- Clean out the fridge and add squash, potatoes, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, cauliflower, or any other veggies you have laying around.
- Arrange the shrimp and veggies in a single layer. Overcrowding results in uneven cooking.
- Embrace the heat! Broiling is the secret to lightly caramelized, juicy, and tender shrimp.
- If the veggies aren’t fork-tender by the time the shrimp are done, remove the shrimp and continue cooking the veggies for a few more minutes. Avoid leaving the shrimp on the pan or they may overcook.
Kid-Friendly Friday: Baked Chicken Legs
If you looked up “family favorite” in a Momsdish dictionary, these baked chicken legs would definitely come up. Chicken drumsticks and seasonings, 10 minutes of prep, and a sheet pan are all it takes to make a dinner your kids (and you) will rave about.
Hot tips
- Check out the recipe post for a bunch of fun seasoning ideas!
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for extra easy clean-up.
- My boys love these drumsticks with guilty mashed potatoes. I’ve also enjoyed serving them with a Caesar salad, buckwheat, or rice.
Snack of the Week: Air Fryer Chickpeas
Sometimes I need a snack to get me through the day… my fellow “hangry” people understand. These three-ingredient, 20 minute chickpeas are addictively crunchy and full of protein and fiber.
Dessert of the Week: Nutella Brownies
If you think desserts are way too complicated to make when you’re busy, let this recipe change your mind. These brownies are made with only three ingredients, and they’re the perfect way to reward yourself after a long day.
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