5 Ingredient Bacon Ranch Football Shaped Cheese Ball

Super Bowl is here and that means it's time to break out the snacks! If you're looking for the most festive and delicious appetizer for your football party, then you should try making a Bacon Ranch Football Shaped Cheese Ball. This delightful snack is easy to make and is sure to be a hit with your friends and family. The crowd will definitely gather around the dish, and because of its fun shape it's sure the be the memorable meal of the party. The tasty combination of bacon, ranch flavor, and the football shape make this cheese ball the perfect addition to your tailgating spread. Read on for the recipe for this delicious appetizer!

This delicious appetizer combines the creamy texture of cheese with the crunchy texture of bacon and the savory flavor of ranch. Not only is it tasty, but it can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for easy party prep. When it comes time to serve, this football shaped cheese ball is sure to be a touchdown! Enjoy it with pantry staples like crackers, chips or sliced vegetables. With its football-shaped presentation, it's the perfect way to bring together friends and family for a delicious game-day themed snack. It’s the perfect dish for any game day gathering and is sure to be a crowd favorite. So, grab your cheeseball, kick back and enjoy the game!

The Bacon Cheddar Football Cheese Ball is sure to be a hit at any tailgate or game-day gathering. It's a great way to show your team spirit while enjoying a savory and delicious snack. So don't wait until the last minute, get your cheese ball ready now and get ready for a winning season! All you need to do is mix together cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, bacon bits, and sharp cheddar cheese. Then shape the mixture into a football shape and roll it in more bacon bits. Refrigerate until firm and you're ready to serve!

INGREDIENTS

16 oz cream cheese

8 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons ranch seasoning

8 slices of bacon

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Bring cream cheese to room temperature before beginning mixing process. Chop pecans and cooked bacon. You will use these both as 2-part ingredients.

2. In a large bowl mix together room temperature cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, a fourth of the bacon and pecans and mix together. You can mix with a fork or a hand mixer. If cream cheese is soft enough, then the hand mixer is good enough.

3. Once cheese ball is mixed together roll out plastic wrap large enough to shape your football. Pour cheese mixture into plastic wrap and full wrap around cheese. Now that the cheese mixture is fully covered its less messy when forming into a football.

4. Once football shape is formed you can remove plastic wrap from the bottom of the cheeseball and place on plate.

5. Add remainder of pecans and bacon together and press into football shape cheeseball. This is fairly easy just press into cheese and all around edges.

6. Using any type of white sliced cheese to make thin strips to create the look of laces for the football. Add your pairings of vegetables, crackers, chips or pretzels and serve!

The Bacon Cheddar Football Cheese Ball is sure to be a crowd-pleasing appetizer at any tailgate or game-day gathering. It's a great way to show your team spirit while enjoying a savory and delicious snack. So don't wait until the last minute, get your cheese ball ready now and get ready for a winning season!

This recipe is also incredibly customizable. You can switch up the ingredients to make it your own. If you're looking for a bite-sized snack, you can make small cheeseball bites. Simply roll the cheeseball mixture into small balls, then roll each ball in bacon bits and refrigerate until firm. When ready to serve, arrange the mini cheeseballs on a platter and serve with crackers or baguette slices. If you want to take it up a notch, you can even add a chip, buttery crackers or pretzel to the top of each ball for easy grabbing at your next football theme party! No matter how you make it, this Bacon Ranch Football Shaped Cheese Ball is sure to be a hit at your next game day gathering.

Other Game Day Appetizers You Will Love

A Crowd-Pleasing Stuffed Mushroom Recipe

Fruit & Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Oven Baked Drumsticks

Decorating Your Home for a Football Party: Tips for Stylish Football Party Home

If you're hosting a football party, you want to make sure your home is properly decorated for the big game. Whether you're cheering for your favorite team or just looking for some fun ideas to excite the guests, there are plenty of ways to create a festive atmosphere with football party home décor. From creative and colorful decorations to easy DIY projects, this blog post has all the ideas you need to create an awesome football themed party atmosphere in your home. Read on for some great football party home décor ideas that will help you create a fun and festive environment for your guests.

This Super bowl I am setting up a display centered around the most important thing for any football party.. the tv! I used our new sideboard and added cute touches of food and football decor. Having a sideboard table under your tv or in a dining room provides a great way to display your serving trays full of food, drink stations, plates and makes it a great way for guests to grab and go and serve themselves.

The Super Bowl can sometimes bring out quite the stress on the crowd, whether they're fans of the team or have a friendly wager on the game itself. So, I thought it would be fun and cute to fill our glass jars with football shaped stress balls. This adds an adorable decor touch that can double down on cutting the tension during big plays. Another added football themed touch I did were the drinks. I found the perfect football shaped cups with straws. You can fill them with a signature drink or leave empty for guests to decide themselves what to put in. The shape of these cups makes them great for cutting down on spills that often happen at larger parties and they are suitable for kids too!

Speaking of spills don't forget to totally cover your side board with tablecovers or a tablecloth. For this display I added a brown gingham table runner for added color and texture, as well as for coverage. This gave a very neutral tone that went well with my new tv frame and sideboard, but if you want your party more personalized to your team colors, the table runner is a great way to add in those pops of color to show your team spirit. Great personalization always leaves a lasting memory with guests.

Wanting to add more football party homedecor? I added in football themed pillows to my side chairs! They made for a super fun and a great way to tie in the party to the entire home! With all these football party home decor ideas for inspiration, your home is sure to be the most talked-about spot on game day!

Other Football Party Decor Ideas:

Give your home a game-day makeover with these additional football party home decor ideas!

-Hang up a mini football field backdrop to create an instant party atmosphere.

-Use team colors to decorate in style: add plates, cups, napkins and streamers in the team colors.

-Get creative with your decorations: hang up a few football-shaped balloons, use mini footballs as place markers, and even hang up a few football-shaped paper lanterns.

-Use a few game-day signs to liven up the walls: hang up a few "Go Team!" signs and "Welcome to the Big Game" signs.

-Add a few football-shaped centerpieces for each table.

-Hang up a few football-themed decorations, such as a goal post, a football-shaped wreath, or a few football-shaped garlands.

-Set up a few football-themed activities, such as a football toss or a football-themed trivia game. Create a football-themed snack bar: set out some chips, pretzels, and other game-day snacks.

Other Party Decor Ideas:

Creating the Perfect Valentines Rosé and Brunch Tablescape

Father's Day Picnic

My Spring Tablescape

Indulge in Deliciousness: Cherry Chip Cake with Chunks of Dark Chocolate Recipe

If you're looking for an indulgent and delicious dessert that's sure to please, then look no further than this amazing cherry chip cake with chunks of dark chocolate. This moist and flavorful cake is full of sweet and tart cherry flavor, and the addition of dark chocolate adds an extra layer of richness and decadence. Whether you make this for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight treat, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone.

This cake is loaded with tart cherries and dark chocolate chunks, creating an irresistible flavor combination that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, birthday, to celebrate valentines this year or just for a fun dessert, this cherry chip cake is perfect for any occasion. To top it off, this cake is finished with a simple cherry buttery cream cheese frosting. The frosting adds a subtle tanginess to the cake and ties together all of the flavors nicely. Read on for the full recipe and instructions for making this delicious dessert.

Ingredients

6 large eggs

6 large egg whites

2 cup heavy cream

4 tablespoons melted butter

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 tsp almond extract

1/2 cup maraschino cherry juice

3 cups sugar

4 1/2 cups cake flour (additional for coating cherries)

2 tablespoon baking powder

1 1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups grated butter

8 oz dark chocolate chunks

1/2 cup chopped cherries (you will need 10-12 with stems for topping)

Frosting:

1 cup butter

8 oz cream cheese

8 cups powdered sugar

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup cherry juice

Instructions:

1. Prep by oiling 3 circle pans (8 or 9 inch) and preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Whisk gently together eggs, heavy cream, melted butter, and vanilla in mixing bowl.

3. In a separate mixing bowl combine dry ingredients.

4. Grate butter on top of dry ingredients. Combined by hand until butter is no larger than pea sizes.

5. Next up add in wet ingredients and blend together with electric mixer until well combined on medium speed. Then add in dark chocolate chunk and coarsely chopped flour coated cherries. Coating the cherries will make sure they don't sink to the bottom of the cake while baking in the oven. Using electric mixer until blended once more, making sure to keep on low and not over mixing.

6. Once combined put into 3 pans that are oiled and put into oven. 22-27 min or until wooden pick inserted comes out clean. Once cake is done baking let cool in pan for 15 min and transfer to cooling rack for another 15.

7. Blend together all frosting ingredients until well combined. (butter and cream cheese should be room temp if not heat in microwave for 30 sec at a time) You can add more heavy cream or powdered sugar depending on desired consistency. I sometimes choose to double the recipe for an even thicker layer on the outside.

8. Ice layers of cake and do a thin later around for a “crumb layer” that will catch all the crumbs and then make a base for the final layer. Place in fridge for 30 min and then do another layer of frosting. I enjoy piping small circles on top with a piping bag and adding cherries to each one. This also helps when cutting so I know how big to make each slice. Cut, Serve and Enjoy!

Notes

Baking a cherry chip cake with chunks of dark chocolate can be a delicious treat for any occasion. Taking notes while baking is an essential part of achieving the desired outcome especially the next time you cook the same recipe. Keeping track of the times for mixing the batter, the temperature of the oven, and the size of the cake pan you use can help you achieve the perfect cake. No two ovens are created equal, so be sure to check on your cake periodically when making it for the first time. Writing down any adjustments you made along the way can help you replicate the recipe or make improvements for when you choose to make the same cake again. Following the above steps and taking notes can help you bake a delicious cherry chip cake with chunks of dark chocolate.

Other Incredible Cakes

My Favorite White Cake Recipe

is a simple but delicious crowd pleaser. Light, airy and easily adaptable with a filling of jam or fresh fruit makes it one of my first go to cakes.

Scotty's Birthday Pistachio Cake

Another fantastic option for a summertime celebration for that pistachio lover in your life. This light and refreshing cake has layers of pistachio cake and is filled and topped with an outstanding mascarpone frosting that you are going to crave! This is my husband's favorite cake, and I make it every year for his birthday. So that's how we got its name.

No matter which cakes you choose, you can be sure that any of these will be a hit at any occasion. Whether you are looking for a classic like Cherry Chip Cake or something a bit more unique like Pistachio Cake, you can rest assured that your guests will be delighted.

An Alluring Combination: French Onion & Shallot Soup Recipe

French Onion & Shallot Soup is a classic French dish that has been delighting people for centuries. This hearty, flavorful soup is perfect for a cold winter day and is sure to warm you up while still delighting your taste buds. This soup is easy to make and is filled with ingredients that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a professional chef, French Onion & Shallot Soup is a great dish to make for your next dinner. In this blog post, I will walk you through the steps for making this delicious soup.

Best French Onion and Shallot Soup

The combination of the two creates a delicious flavor and texture. The sweetness of the caramelized onions and shallots pairs perfectly with the beef broth and creates a rich, flavorful soup. Caramelizing the onions and shallots is key to getting the most out of this simple dish.

The process of caramelizing the onions and shallots for this soup is straightforward and easy. To start, heat up a large skillet over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of butter. Once the butter melts, add the onions and shallots and cook until they are lightly browned. This will take close to an hour. Once the onions and shallots are caramelized, add the beef broth and bring to a boil. To make the soup even more flavorful, add wine, a pinch of thyme or a bay leaf. Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, the soup should be thick and flavorful. To top the soup off, pour into individual bowls and add a crunchy baguette and cheese. This adds a nice contrast and texture to the soup. You will pop in the oven until cheese is melted and browning on top.

French Onion and Shallot Soup is a classic French dish that is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Topping the soup off with crunchy croutons or cheese croutons adds texture and a nice contrast. French Onion and Shallot Soup is a great way to use up leftover onions and shallots and is a comforting meal for any time of year. With its rich and hearty flavor profile, it's no wonder why it's a popular choice whenever you're looking for something comforting and delicious. Beef stock, garlic, and herbs give the soup an added depth of flavor that takes it to the next level.

The best French onion and shallot soup is made with freshly caramelized onions and shallots. This caramelization process takes time but is well worth the effort as it brings out the sweet flavor of the onions and shallots. Adding a dash of brandy or cognac is a great way to enhance the flavor, or you can also add wine or sherry to the soup for a rich, complex flavor. Topping the soup with a generous sprinkling of grated cheese enhances the flavor and gives the soup a cheesy crust. My favorite way to top off this meal is with a glass of Decoy Chardonnay. The Gruyère cheese topping with the french onion & shallot soup pairs very well with Chardonnay, and makes this a delicious combo.

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter

4 yellow onions, thinly sliced

3 shallots, thinly sliced

1 teaspoon salt

2 sprigs of fresh thyme, additional for topping

2 bay leaves

2 cloves minced garlic

1/2 cup white wine

6 cups chicken or beef broth

salt & black pepper to taste

6-12 sourdough baguette slices

8 oz shredded gruyère cheese

Instructions

1. First you will add butter to hot pan. Letting melt before starting to add in Shallots. I like to brown mine a little bit to add additional flavor. Once butter is ready add in shallots and coat with butter. Let sauté in pan for 5 minutes & add onions. Stirring frequently (every 5 minutes) over medium-high heat for an hour until onions and shallots are fully caramelized and cooked down. Make sure as you are stirring you scrape up any brown bits that might start to form each time. If they are too hard to rise off the pan, you can pour in some of the wine that we use later now to help.

2. Add in salt, thyme, bay leaves and garlic. Stir together to incorporate. Slowly pour in white wine and chicken or beef broth. Let come to a boil and reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer for 15 minutes.

3. While soup is simmering preheat oven to broil and lightly butter baguette let toast while oven is preheating. Grate cheese for next step.

4. Now that soup is ready pour equally into oven safe bowls. Top each bowl with sourdough baguette slices. This could be 1-2 per bowl depending on the size of bowl and baguette. Top that with your gruyere cheese and place of a baking sheet.

5. Put soup bowls on baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and starting to become a deep golden on tops.

6. Remove from oven, top with additional fresh thyme salt and black pepper. Serve and Enjoy!

French onion and shallot soup is best served with a side of crusty French bread or delicious Cesar salad. The combination of the savory soup and the crunchy bread makes for the perfect incredible bite. You'll be sure to enjoy every last spoonful of this classic soup.

Notes

French Onion & Shallot Soup is a classic French comfort food dish that is sure to please anyone who enjoys the sweet and savory flavor of caramelized onions. The soup’s flavor comes primarily from the combination of caramelized onions and shallots, along with a variety of herbs and spices. However, if you’re not a fan of shallots, they can be substituted by removing them and adding two additional onions to the soup. You can also add in mushrooms for an even richer flavor.

For other ways to substitute, I recommend using beef or chicken stock but if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use vegetable stock instead. The soup is usually served topped with a baguette and melted gruyere cheese, but croutons topping instead of a baguette make for an added crunch, which I occasionally prefer. For a healthier version, use low-sodium broth and skip the cheese and croutons. For an added touch of protein, you can top with crispy bacon and additional herbs. French Onion & Shallot Soup is a delicious meal that can be adapted to meet a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a first course, this dish will be sure to please.

Other Soups You’ll Love!

For those looking for a creamier option, there is also the classic Italian Sausage, Potato & Kale Soup. This dish combines sausage, potatoes, kale, blended of herbs and is finished off with a hint of cream for a truly decadent experience. Or, for those looking for something a bit more substantial, there is always Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe, a protein-packed dish that is sure to fill you up on even the coldest of days. Needing something with a little kick? Bring the Heat with this Deliciously Spicy Tortellini Soup. Finally, there is the classic Deliciously Creamy Basil Tomato Soup, which combines tomatoes and basil with a hint of cream for an unforgettable flavor. Whether you’re looking for a comforting soup or something a bit more substantial one of these recipes is sure to hit the spot.

I truly hope you enjoy this recipe and all my others. If you are looking for a recipe on amandawarrenblog.com you can search in my search bar for anything you can't find. I am always sharing more videos on my Instagram, Pinterest and Tik Tok as well so you can see the exact process of how each meal is made. Thank you again for stopping by and I hope to see you again soon!

Creating the Perfect Valentines Rosé and Brunch Tablescape

The beautiful season of love is on the way, and what better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with an elegant rosé brunch tablescape? Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or a fun gathering with friends, the perfect tablescape can make your Valentine's Day celebration even more special. With the right combination of food, drinks, decorations, and a bit of creativity, you can create a memorable Valentine's Day brunch tablescape that your guests will love. There are many different selections of delicious rosé wines and delicate decorations, so here are some tips to help you put together a stunning Valentine's Day brunch tablescape.

Wine and Roses

I started my brunch and rose themed Valentines tablescape off by finding the cutest evite online. That little bit of inspiration helped, and from then on everything just fell into place. Evite's make entertaining and inviting friends and family to an event so easy by being sent straight to their email address, but you can also print and mail them as well. The next thing I added to this theme was a toast to love, using a special bottle of wine. This brand of rose is sentimental to me because years ago it was actually a wine bottle my husband gave to me and had engraved with " I LOVE YOU" to tell me for the first time that he loved me. So, it's obviously holds a special place in my heart and one I like to pull out from time to time. What more perfect of a time than on Valentines day. Next, I set the table with romantic rose colored inspired dinnerware and linens. I placed floral place settings around the rim of each plate and coffee mug and a rose colored napkin. To complete the table, I created a custom menu of delicious breakfast, brunch and lunch items. To add that extra bit of love to your table, decorate it with hearts and love-inspired decorations. I wanted this Valentines rosé and brunch tablescape to be very easy and whimsical so I ordered small bud vases to line the center of the table and picked up beautiful flowers from our local Trader Joe's. Bud vases make for an easy tablescape because a few florals fill the vase and it makes a very beautiful delicate centerpiece arrangement. I made a few larger rose arrangements for the sidebar that I made into a buffet area as well.

Valentine Inspired Dishes

To complete the table, create a custom menu of delicious breakfast, brunch and lunch items. I put all of the breakfast items on my side table for easy access and to add to the display. For some inspiration on your brunch menu, you could start with heart shaped waffles, a fun and easy way to show your love with breakfast. For a lighter option, I love to make parfaits without granola and instead use chopped pecans. This is a great way to still have a delicious treat, but be a little lighter than the waffles and scones. Speaking of raspberry scones, I made this delicious treat that pairs perfectly with the theme with its raspberry coloring. I will link my full recipes at the end of this blog post as well. To have a little something for everyone, fruit and cheese is an easy and delicious grazing dish. Don’t forget to have drinks! Coffee, Rose, Teas, Water and Juices are all great options for your guests. With these delicious treats and drinks, your Valentine’s Day brunch table will be sure to be a hit!

Garden Style Rose Inspiration

This Valentine's Day, create a romantic brunch tablescape your loved ones won't soon forget. An abundance of garden roses in blush and white will give your space a romantic touch. You can incorporate a variety of pink and white roses to give your tablescape a soft and beautiful texture. Also consider adding a few accents of greenery, like eucalyptus, for a fresh, whimsical and natural look. To keep a bottle of rosé chilled, fill a champagne bucket with ice and add left over florals peddles to the ice for a beautiful, over the top creative detail that will tie into the centerpiece. Place your favorite rosé glasses by the bucket, and stuff it with cotton candy for an extra pop of color and sweetness. With these simple tips, you can create a beautiful Valentine's Day brunch tablescape that will wow your guests.

You'll Also Love These Tablescapes & Recipes

A Rosey Pink Galentines Party

Romantic Valentines Table

Watermelon Twist Cocktail

Deliciously Light Raspberry Scones

Deliciously Creamy Basil Tomato Soup: An Easy and Delicious Recipe

If you're looking for a warm and comforting meal, look no further than creamy tomato basil soup. This creamy and delicious soup is packed full of flavor provided by fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a hint of cream. A side of crusty bread or grilled cheese makes this soup a complete meal that is sure to please. A great perk to this recipe is that it is vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free. It can also be made easily vegan by changing out heavy cream for coconut milk and omitting any cheese.

This soup is also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables and herbs from the fridge. It's a great way to make sure that nothing goes to waste. Plus, it's a perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening. Rich and creamy tomato basil soup is a great way to warm you up and fill your belly. So, if you're looking for a delicious and comforting meal, give this creamy tomato basil soup a try.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter

1 yellow onion, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

9 roma tomatoes

1 tablespoons Italian seasoning

1 cup vegetable broth

8 oz tomato paste

1/4 cup basil pesto

3/4 cup heavy cream

sea salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste

basil & parmesan cheese for toppings

Instructions

1. To make this soup, start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are softened and slightly golden brown.

2. Next, add 9 roma tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer, cover and let sit simmer for 15 minutes, stirring often. Add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning and stir to combine.

3. Once the tomatoes are softened, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until you get a smooth consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Once blended, pour back into pot and add 1 cup of vegetable broth, 8 oz of tomato paste, 1/4 cup of basil pesto and parmesan rind. Let come together but turning heat to medium low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring often.

4. Finally, stir in 3/4 cups of heavy cream and simmer the soup for another 5 minutes until warmed through. Serve the Creamy Basil Tomato Soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh basil, parmesan cheese and a slice of warm crusty bread. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Tomato Basil Soup?

Creamy Basil Tomato Soup is a classic comfort meal that is sure to please everyone in the family. It’s perfect for warming up on a cold winter’s day, or for enjoying as a light and nutritious lunch. The creamy texture and flavorful blend of basil, tomatoes, and other ingredients make this soup a favorite in households around the world.

For the perfect accompaniment to your soup, try pairing it with some of your favorite comfort food classics. Grilled cheese sandwiches are a tasty option for dipping into the soup, as are crusty French bread, croutons, and even garlic bread. For a healthier side and bit of freshness, serve a simple green salad on the side. Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, squash, and bell peppers also make an excellent side dish. Or, for a bit of extra flavor, try serving focaccia bread with your creamy basil tomato soup.

No matter which accompaniments you choose, you’ll be sure to enjoy this creamy basil tomato soup. With a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of preparation, this classic comfort food is the perfect meal for any occasion.

Other great soup recipes

Mom's Minestrone Soup and Italian Sausage, Potato & Kale Soup are great options for a cold winter day, but for something a bit lighter and more refreshing, Creamy Basil Tomato Soup is a delicious choice. This creamy soup has a hint of basil that adds a hint of complexity to the flavor. The creamy tomato base is combined with garlic, herbs, and a variety of delicious vegetables to make a hearty soup that is both comforting and surprisingly satisfying. The basil adds a unique flavor to the soup that will have you coming back for more. Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, Creamy Basil Tomato Soup is a great option for any meal.

Bring the Heat with this Deliciously Spicy Tortellini Soup

Welcome to this blog post about Spicy Tortellini Soup! This delicious soup is a flavorful twist on classic tortellini soup, but adds a spicy kick that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The combination of the spicy broth and cheesy tortellini is a comforting, filling meal that is perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients. The spicy Italian sausage makes it so tasty and adds that great kick of flavor, while the tomatoes, cheese, and tortellini provide an incredible balance of sweetness and creaminess. Read on to learn how to make this tasty dish and find out why it's the perfect meal for any chilly day.

So this time of year go ahead and warm up with a comforting bowl of this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup. Made with simple ingredients, this hearty and flavorful dish is a great way to add variety to your dinner menu. It features a delicious combination of Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and a creamy tomato-based broth. The addition of spicy Italian sausage gives the soup a kick of heat that is balanced out by the creamy broth. This meal is perfect for a cold night and can easily be prepared in just one pot. Your entire family will love this flavorful and filling soup.

What You Need to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

Spicy Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish for a chilly evening. This flavorful and hearty soup is sure to warm you up and leave you wanting seconds. To start, you’ll need one pound of hot Italian sausage, one onion diced, and five cloves of garlic minced. Sauté the sausage and onion until the sausage is fully cooked and the onion is translucent. Then add in mix two tablespoons of flour, one teaspoon of red pepper flakes, one teaspoon of sea salt, and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning and stir. Adding Flour here helps remove any moisture from meat, marry in the seasonings and thicken soup if needed. Next pour in one can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, one can of tomato sauce, and six cups of vegetable broth. Allow the mixture to come together and add in one package of refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook the soup for 15-20 minutes, or until the tortellini is cooked and floating on top.

Next, add in three cups of chopped spinach, and cook the soup for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, stir in one-and-a-half cups of half-and-half and 3 chopped basil leaves. Let the soup simmer until heated through. Be sure not to let come to a boil, because then the cream will start to curd or get chunky.

To finish off the dish, mix one-quarter cup of ricotta and one-quarter cup of parmesan cheese and spoon on top of each bowl before serving. You can also serve this separately incase anyone doesn't like this additional topping. I like to finish by adding additional chopped basil for color and flavor. Spicy Tortellini Soup is sure to become a family favorite in no time!

Ingredients :

1 lb. of Spicy Italian Sausage

1 Yellow Onion

1 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 tsp sea salt

1 tsp italian seasoning

5 cloves of minced garlic

2 tbsp unbleached flour

6 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes

1 - 8 oz can of tomato paste

1 package of cheese tortellini (I use the package from Sam’s club)

3 cups chopped spinach

1-1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

3 basil leaves, chopped (additional for garnish)

1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan Cheese

Instructions :

1. First prepare vegetables & open cans of tomatoes. Dice Onion, Chop spinach and basil, and mince garlic. Set aside.

2. Now that everything is prepared, grab your soup pot and turn to medium-high heat. Add spicy italian sausage, garlic and onion cooking until the onion is transparent and sausage is cooked. Adding in Flour, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and italian season.

3. Pour in broth, diced tomatoes and paste. Stir and let come together. Add in tortellini and let simmer for 10-15 min. Stirring Occasionally.

4. Add in chopped spinach and marry together for about 5 minutes. Lastly add in heavy cream and basil leaves. Let simmer an additional 5 minutes until warmed throughout.

5. Mix together ricotta and parmesan cheese for topping. Top each soup with ricotta mixture and additional basil.

6. ENJOY!

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If you are looking for a delicious and satisfying soup that is sure to be a hit with your family, you will love this Spicy Tortellini Soup! This soup is bursting with flavor, and it is surprisingly easy to make. The spicy flavor Is aided by the additions of red pepper flakes, fire roasted tomatoes, and spicy Italian sausage. The tortellini adds that hearty texture to the soup, making it a nice complete meal.

You can make the soup ahead of time and enjoy it over multiple days, storing in an airtight container. To take it to the next level, add in grated Parmesan cheese and ricotta mixture. This soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cold winter day. Get creative with the spices and flavors and you will have a flavorful and satisfying soup that you will want to make again and again.

Variations on This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Spicy Tortellini Soup is a delicious and flavorful dish that can easily be adjusted to customize the taste to your own preference with a few of these variations. If you are looking for a more mild flavor, substitute spicy Italian sausage for a traditional variety and add a can of regular diced tomatoes instead of the fire roasted. If you’re looking for less creaminess, top it off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of the ricotta mixture. For those who prefer a spicier kick, simply add an additional pinch of red pepper flakes before serving for an extra kick of fire. For a dairy-free option you can use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit ricotta topping. To tweak the flavor a little bit, swap out the tortellini for cheese ravioli. For an extra protein boost, add a can of cannellini beans. Whichever way you choose to serve it, Spicy Tortellini Soup is sure to be a hit with everyone you enjoy it with!

Try These Next

Italian Sausage, Potato & Kale Soup - with a few teaks you can turn this into a sausage, kale tortellini soup also.

Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe - Deliciously satisfying and easily adaptable to your nutritional needs.

Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe

"Mom's Favorite" Minestrone Soup Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Meal for Everyone

If you're looking for a comforting and delicious soup recipe that will bring as big of a smile to your mom's faces as it does to my moms, then look no further! This classic minestrone soup recipe is sure to please. It's easy to make, packed with nourishing ingredients, and simply tastes like good old-fashioned home cooking. An added bonus is it's a great way to use up any leftovers you have in the fridge. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a pot of this soup in no time and make your mom happy and proud. Read on for the recipe!

Tips for Minestrone Soup

Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe is a hearty and flavorful soup that is sure to be a hit with not just Mom, but the whole family. It's a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand. I actually started making this soup because it's the only soup my mom truly enjoys and will order when out at a restaurant. So naturally, I had to try my own hand at it. I am always trying to please the family and make meals they all will love.

To start off this delicious soup, melt some good quality butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add in some chopped garlic and onion and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent. Next, add in the vegetables of your choice, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini, and sauté for a few minutes until they start to soften. Once the vegetables have softened, add in some canned tomatoes, 5 oz of chopped pancetta, cannellini beans and season with your favorite Italian seasoning blend. I personally use my own italian seasoning, which I make monthly to just to have on hand. Pour in enough broth or stock to cover the vegetables and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Next, add in some cooked pasta and beans, such as cannellini beans, and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Finish off your soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional herbs if desired. Serve with a crusty loaf of bread and a side salad for a complete meal.

Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe is sure to be a hit with the whole family. It's a hearty and flavorful soup that is packed with vegetables and beans and is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation, especially on those cold days.

What to Serve with Vegetarian Minestrone Soup

Mom’s favorite minestrone soup recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that will make anyone’s mouth water. The perfect combination of veggies, broth, and spices make this dish a family favorite. This soup is best served with a variety of accompaniments such as crusty French bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, garlic bread, Caesar salad, grilled vegetables, antipasto platter, focaccia bread, cheese & herb biscuits, caprese salad, roasted garlic bread, toasted ciabatta bread, garlic toast, and bruschetta.

This soup is a great way to make a meal out of whatever ingredients you have on hand. You can customize the soup by adding different veggies and beans, or even switching up the broth and seasonings. If you’re looking for an easy, yet delicious meal, Mom’s favorite minestrone soup recipe is just the thing. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup and pair it with any of the accompaniments listed above for a complete meal.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons salted butter

1 large onion

4 cloves minced garlic

5 oz diced pancetta

1 cup chopped carrots

1/4 cup chopped celery

1 zucchini chopped

1 can diced tomatoes (lightly drained)

6 cups vegetable broth

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

2 bay leaves

black pepper (to taste)

1 can cannellini beans

1 1/2 cup pasta (of your choice)

2 handfuls of spinach, roughly chopped

1/2 cup white wine

2 tablespoons basil pesto

Parmesan for topping

Instructions

1. To make this delicious soup, simply gather all of the ingredients and have them ready. Then, chop the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Heat the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat in your favorite stockpot. I love my 8 qt 360 Cookware stockpot for making all soups. Then add the vegetables and cook until they are soft, about 5 minutes.

2. Next, add the canned tomatoes, pancetta, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning and bay leaf and bring to a boil. Then, add the zucchini, beans and pasta and reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes.

3.To finish it off, you will stir in the spinach, white wine (I prefer to use Decoy Chardonnay and enjoy the rest of the bottle to serve with the soup), basil pesto and season with pepper to taste. Let ingredients come together for an additional 10-20 minutes or until the spinach has changed color to a dark leafy green.

Serve the soup hot, with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and slices of crusty bread. Enjoy! This flavorful and comforting soup will become a staple in your house. Remember, this minestrone soup is easy to make and is sure to please the entire family. Enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Mom's favorite minestrone soup recipe is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. It's a hearty soup made with a variety of vegetables, beans, broth and optional pancetta. This soup is so versatile and can be easily customized depending on your taste preferences. Feel free to make it all your own.

For a creamier texture, add a ½ cup of heavy cream to the broth before adding the vegetables. If you are looking for a heartier soup, you can add ½ cup of cooked quinoa or barley to the soup with the vegetables. For a protein packed version, add a can of drained and rinsed black beans. To give the soup a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the broth. If you want to make a vegan version, add in extra vegetables like butternut squash or green beans, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the pancetta. You can also add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the broth to give it a spicier flavor. For an extra flavor boost, add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or oregano or an additional tomato paste.

This soup is sure to please everyone at the table! Enjoy Mom's favorite minestrone soup recipe with a crusty loaf of bread and a glass of your favorite white wine.

Other Soups & Bread Recipes to Make

Italian Sausage, Potato & Kale Soup

The Perfect Beginners Sourdough Bread Recipe for Delicious Homemade Bread

Garlic & Herb Focaccia Bread

Guest Bedroom Makeover Reveal

For many of us, having a dedicated guest bedroom is a luxury, but can also be a challenge to make it feel inviting as well as be functional. To help create a warm and welcoming space for our guests, we decided to transform this basic guest bedroom into a beautiful, colorful and inviting sanctuary. This charming pink and green guest bedroom offers the perfect little cozy retreat for visitors. The walls have been wallpapered in a soft pink and light floral print that we have carried throughout the room.

Wallpaper is from wallpaperdirect.com

We started off by giving the room a big bold makeover by updating the neutral wall color the room previously had by installing a beautiful wallpaper. Along with the wallpaper we installed, we also added a few statement pieces to create visual interest in the room and to give it a cozy and inviting feel. We went with fresh white linens and pops of pinks and greens in the pillows to bring color and texture to the space. The bed is dressed by a Pottery Barn duvet cover with small pink detail that matches the Pottery Barn quilt, quilt euro shams, and curtains. These all added pops of pink that matches the wallpaper perfectly. To complete the bedside look, I found an antique style nightstand that was small enough to fit the space and also close enough in style to match the beautiful bed. A pink lamp with white shade was added for a subtle pink touch and the white shade tied into the bedding nicely. Shockingly, I found the Bed for this room on Amazon and am so in love with it. I will link below if you are looking for a great quality bed that is budget-friendly and that can also be functional with so many color schemes.

To complete the look, we accessorized the room with small pieces like the custom wallpaper art I created to add character and art. You can see more on how I did this on my Instagram highlight labeled pink & green room. We also added a few pieces of furniture to create a functional reading space for our guests. The green gingham armchair provides a cozy spot for reading and sipping coffee or just relaxing and looking out the window, all while giving a nice contrasting touch of patterns. We also added a matching dresser to the bed with a mirror over its top with a great find from Round Top, Texas, and this adds a spot for guests to have a mirror as well as store their clothing. Extra blankets were added in this dresser in case the guests get cool at night or while sitting in the armchair. Together, these elements create a warm and inviting space that any guest will find fantastic!

After all of the updates, the room looks inviting and comfortable, and is the perfect place for guests to relax. We’re so happy with how the room turned out and can’t wait to have our first visitors stay in this newly updated pink & green guest bedroom.

Updating a guest bedroom can be an exciting task that can completely transform the look and feel of the space. A room that may have been forgotten before can easily become your new favorite room of the house. With the right sources and details, the process can be easy and effective, and hopefully you can shop deals to make it an inexpensive as possible. When completing an update to your guest bedroom, it is important to consider the furniture and decor that will be used. Think about the color palette, style, and size of the furniture and decor that will be used in the room. It is a good idea to look for items that will complement and enhance the existing decor and furniture in the room. Investing in quality pieces that will last for years to come is essential. With these simple updates, your guest bedroom will be ready to welcome any guest in style.

Last few tips I have for you when redoing a guest room of any room. When selecting bedding and accessories, think about the textures and colors that will help create a cozy atmosphere. The size of the room is important and should be taken into account when deciding how to measure and maximize the space for guests. Remember to measure the room before purchasing furniture and decor items, I make this mistake far too many times. Finally, think about the amount of storage needed for guest items and choose pieces accordingly. With these tips, the guest bedroom update will be a great success.

I hope you enjoyed these bedroom ideas and I cannot wait to share more decorating ideas as we transform our new Farm House in a French Country / Farm House of our dreams.

Everything we used for this room is linked below or similar to those pieces that are sold out of found at antique stores.

Other Home Decor I have shared in the past:

Our Neutral (with pops of pink) Bedroom

White and Gold Modern Bathroom Remodel

The Perfect Beginners Sourdough Bread Recipe for Delicious Homemade Bread

If you are looking for an easy and delicious bread recipe to try out, look no further! This beginner's sourdough bread recipe is perfect for those just starting out the task of making your very own homemade bread. With a few simple steps, you will be able to whip up your own homemade loaf of sourdough bread in no time. Not only is this bread delicious, but it is also extremely healthy, with all of the probiotic benefits of sourdough. So, give it a try and enjoy the amazing flavor and smell of your own homemade bread!

I've tried many different recipes using sourdough starter trying to get it right each time. There really is nothing like the delicious smell and taste of freshly baked sourdough bread, and thankfully, lately, it's our new normal favorite smell in the home. Just imagine the lovely smell when using the sourdough for cinnamon rolls! I make this bread weekly for sandwich bread and sides for dinners and delicious soups.

Full disclosure, I have only been making sourdough bread and working with sourdough starter for about 6 months now. However, making it weekly, I have been able to dabble with this recipe time and time again and this has been the easiest to work with and the best tasting of all! To start you will want to make sure your sourdough starter has been fed one of its "regular feedings" 12 hours before starting. A good rule of thumb is that if your starter has risen to twice its size after a feeding, then you're ready to use. I normally will feed my starter the night before and start the bread process first thing in the morning to have fresh bread by dinner that evening. You cn say this makes this a same day sourdough bread. If I want a breakfast loaf, I would feed it in the early evening and once its risen enough start the process. Then, let it sit overnight and bake in the morning.

Another important note is the surrounding environment for your sourdough starter and your bread dough. If you're house is set at a colder temperature like usual for the Winter, and room temperature is slightly cooler than the norm, then it will take longer for your starter to rise . During this time, I usually keep my starter in the pantry of our house because I notice it's the warmest part of the house. and will keep a towel around the jar. When the sourdough bread is in the proofing bowl, I do the same thing and wrap a towel around the bottom of the bowl as well as keeping the top covered like normal.

Let's get started and make some yummy sourdough bread!

Ingredients:

1/3 cup sourdough starter

1 - 3/4 cup filtered water

1 tsp sea salt

4 cups bread flour

Directions:

1. Once sourdough starter is ready to go you will add 1/3 cup to bowl with water and whisk until blended. Add in sea salt and bread flour and mix together with your hands. Flour bread mixture will be scruffy, that's okay. If all flour hasn't blended in you will need a bit more water, but don't over water just enough so your flour is all incorporated. Place a clean towel over the top and let sit for one hour.

2. After one hour stretch and fold. To stretch and fold you will pick up on one side of the dough pull up and fold into center. Continue around the sides until they have all been picked up and folded into middle. It will normally be around 4-5 times. Cover again and let sit for 30 min. Repeat once more.

3. After all stretch and folds have finished you will scoop out the dough onto a lightly floured countertop. Using a bench scraper fold under to form a large ball of dough. Make sure to have everything floured so that you prevent sticking to your surfaces.

4. Once ball is formed you will pick up with your bench scraper and flip over into floured proofing basket. Pinching sides of dough on bottom pull together so the part of the dough showing is creased together. Cover with towel and let sit for 7 - 10 hours.

5. When you are ready to bake flip your proofing basket with sourdough onto a lightly floured piece of parchment paper. Now you can score your dough and let sit for 30 minutes while you preheat the oven and stockpot.

6. While your bread is sitting grab your best 360 stockpot, I use the 8 Quart Stockpot with Cover, place in oven and turn on to 450 degrees. Once temperature is reached lower your bread into stockpot holding the sides of the parchment paper. Cover and let bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes remove cover and bake an additional 25 minutes or until golden brown.

7. Baking is all done. Now remove bread and set on cooling rack or cutting board for at least 30 minutes for a resting period before cutting. Your sourdough bread will continue to cook while sitting so cutting too early will cut the full bake time down.

8. ENJOY!!

I hope you enjoyed this beginners sourdough bread recipe.

Some of my other favorite bread recipes are:

Garlic & Herb Focaccia Bread

Banana Bread Recipe

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread Recipe

Corn Bread Loaf Recipe

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2023: Charcuterie Board Ideas to Help You Ring in the New Year

Are you looking for a creative way to spruce up the food at your New Year's celebration? Well, then look no further than to the perfect charcuterie board! Charcuterie boards are always a crowd favorite. They are not only delicious, they're also a visually stunning way to impress your guests and add that touch of sophistication to your party. With a variety of meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts, there are endless possibilities for creating a unique charcuterie board. To help get you started, I've put together a list of 2023 charcuterie board fun ideas to help you create the perfect board for your own New Year's celebration! Whether you are planning a party with friends, or staying in for an intimate classic dinner for two, a charcuterie board for an appetizer is always a winning idea.

Just because Christmas is now over doesn't mean you have to go back to a boring diet and stop eating all the delicious Holiday foods! My 2023 charcuterie board ideas will help to spice up both your New Year's party, as well as any occasion you have coming into the New Year!! Feel free to make this any way you want, with your very own favorite varieties of the food. I will share my inspiration below.

Everything I used is listed on the photo below so you can see how I used each delicious item. These are some of my favorite things to add into my boards any time of the year. Remember, the best part is these boards are fairly easy to make, and the possibilities are endless. I find it's best to use whatever you can find locally along with what is in season. This makes your board even more unique to you and to the time of year!

Ingredients I used:

Charcuterie/Meats -

Prosciutto

Spicy Sopresso Salame

Sopressata

Cheese -

Cheddar Cheese

Manchego

Tete De Moine

Fruits -

Figs

Blackberries

Blueberries

Raspberries

Nuts -

Pecans ( almonds, pistachios, walnuts)

Other -

Other things to add on the side or onto your board could be chocolates, crackers, sliced French bread or anything else you can enjoy paired with sparkling wine or apple cider to bring in the New Year!

Other charcuterie boards I have made for inspiration:

30 Dollar Date Night Charcuterie Board

Truly Grass Fed Board

Large Summer Charcuterie Board

Valentines Theme Charcuterie Board

Christmas Holiday Charcuterie Board

Transforming our Dining Room for a New Year Celebration!

Transforming our Dining Room for a New Year Celebration!

Are you ready to say goodbye to Christmas and welcome to the New Year? If you’re like most of us and love decorating for the holidays, then you know that the change from Christmas to New Year's can be a bittersweet moment. So why not make the transition from one holiday to the next even more enjoyable by transforming your dining room? With a few simple upgrades and decorations, you can create a festive look that celebrates both the end of one year and the start of the next. In this blog post, I'll share a fun and creative way to transform your dining room from Christmas to New Year's.

I had so much fun transforming our dining room from Christmas to New Years and enjoying our tree a little longer this holiday season. I incorporated lots of silvers and golds to make my version of a Winter wonderland. This allowed me to leave up my tree and garland across the table for the greenery centerpiece. I found the perfect decorative mini Christmas trees for table decor (I will link them all below. Many are on major sale after Christmas!) which made for highs and lows across the centerpiece and tied in the Winter wonderland. I went with a velvet tablecloth and layers of placemats with beading to give elements and layers that are so New Years and a beautiful combination.

For even more pops of New Years that made the dining room even more special, I added a balloon garland from Target across our mirror. This was a 5 dollar find that added an adorable touch to the mirror. I knew I was going to be sad when I took our Christmas wreath off of the mirror -see our Christmas dining room here- but this balloon totally made an adorable element and added to the mirror once again! Adding a champagne station below with rock candy gets everyone ready for a midnight toast while also giving a decorative element! One last thing I added are the Christmas crackers. These are fun to crack at midnight when the ball drops. Another great idea would be to add a New Years horn, noisemakers, or poppers.

I hope this gives you inspiration on how to transform your home space from Christmas straight into New Year's Eve! Most of these decorative ideas you may have already from other tablescapes and from Christmas decorations. I made sure to link everything I used (down to our outfits) many are on major sale for 50% off. The idea of this tablescape was to inspire you to use things you may already have for a simple and elegant New Year's Eve table. Wishing you a Happy New Year and a blessed 2023.

I hope you enjoy this tablescape idea, here are some I others I have done in the past that I hope will be inspiring to you as well.

Other Tablescapes from Amanda Warren

My Spring Tablescape

Father Day Picnic

Chic Halloween Party

Romantic Valentines Table

A Rosy Pink Galentines Party

9th Annual Christmas Cookie Party

Mom's 60th Birthday Party

"A Festive Taste of Tradition: Sparkling Cider Punch for Christmas!"

Welcome to the Holiday season! With Christmas just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about the special treats that are going to keep your guests happy and their tummies content during the festivities. One of my favorite treats of the Christmas season are the delicious, festive, colorful signature drinks. I love to get creative on drinks that can be served to family and friends. If you're looking for something special to serve this season, why not try a Sparkling Cider Punch? This classic Christmas drink is easy to make, uses ingredients you can find at most grocery stores, and is sure to be a hit at any Holiday gathering. Read on to find out how to make a Sparkling Cider Punch that will help you sparkle like the star of your Christmas party!

When moving to Texas this summer, my husband's grandma gifted me her beautiful punch bowl. A bowl she had spent every Christmas making her famous brandy slush in. A bowl I had been admiring every Holiday since he and I got together. She knew I had loved that bowl it and she generously gave it to me to enjoy. This Christmas, we won't be in our hometown to enjoy her brandy slush, but I wasn't going to let her beautiful punch bowl sit this season out. I wanted to put together a new recipe I could share with you as well. So, grab your favorite punch bowl and let's make a tasty sparkling cider punch for Christmas!

Ingredients

2 bottles of sparkling apple cider

1 bottle of ginger beer

1 cup vodka

1/2 cup cinnamon sugar simple syrup

2 to 3 apples thinly sliced ( I like to do 1 green and 1 red)

1/2 cup pomegranate ariels

1/2 cup cranberries

Cinnamon & sugar mixed for rim of glass

Simple syrup mix:

1 cup sugar

2 tablespoons cinnamon

1 cup water

Instructions

1. Make Simple syrup by adding all ingredients into a stove top pot and letting come to a simmering boil and sugar has all dissolved. Add to a jar to let cool. I like to make this the night before and put in fridge, so it doesn't make the punch warm.

2. Rim glasses you plan to serve with. I used coupe glasses I had from Pottery Barn for this. Makes it so easy to ladle in fruit and punch.

3. Once simple syrup is cooled, or if you waited for the following day, Add all ingredients into a punch bowl.. the bottles of sparkling apple cider, ginger beer (you can add 2 if you want more carbonation) vodka, simple syrup and then layer in fruit.

3. Ladle in punch as guests arrive! You can add ice if you want as well to keep cool.

4. ENJOY!

This sparkling cider punch recipe includes alcohol. If you are wanting to have this as a non-alcoholic punch that everyone (even the littles) can enjoy it this Christmas season, then you can substitute the vodka for tonic water. This will enhance the flavors of the other ingredients of the punch without adding any other alternative flavors. It makes it a drink that everyone can enjoy!

As you may have read above, this punch bowl was given to me by Scotty's grandma Dot. However, if you are looking for a beautiful bowl for yourself to make this punch in this Holiday season I have more linked below.

5 Ways To Elevate Your Christmas Style This Holiday Season

Christmas time is the perfect time to show off your festive style. Whether you want to dress up for Holiday events like work parties or seeing the ballet, or simply for your everyday Winter look, there are plenty of ways to add some Christmas flair to your wardrobe. Here are 5 simple ways to elevate your Christmas style and add a little extra holiday cheer to your look.

Add Some Sparkle

I always love to some sparkle any time of the year, but the Holidays are the perfect time to really add some extra! Here I went with a sequins skirt, cozy sweater, a coat, and a little more sparkle on the heels! It makes for a beautiful, elegant, fun, and one of my favorite ways to look even more festive for Christmas and New Year's events. Other ways to add sparkle is a beautiful statement necklace, sequins top, or if you want to go all out, I linked some beautiful dresses and jumpsuits below!

You Can Never Go Wrong With Fur

I always love a fur coat! Whether it's a full fur or a partial fur with just a little around the collar like this coat from Abercrombie. I love this coats versatility as well as it has the collar detachable so you can make this look less dressy without the fur if desired. However, this blog post is all about dressing UP for the holidays! I love how much the fur around the collar dresses this monochromatic look up. Adding element and detail that is so perfect for Christmas and New Years. Also, fur is a wonderful choice for any Winter wedding you may have!

Velvet Screams Christmas

I'll be honest, I love velvet all year round. However, Christmas and New Years is the perfect time of year to really bring it out! Velvet gives a beautiful dress an even more cozy feel and elegant vibe because of the comfy texture. I loved this dress from Red Dress and especially love how the velvet feels on. It comes in so many different colors and is a very flattering fit. The dress goes in under the bust and lays so nicely on top. You will love this one! (Linking everything below and adding others that you will love as well) If you are thinking a full Velvet dress is too much.. Add a top with a velvet bow for a more subtle look that still says Merry Christmas!

Lace Is Great

Lace is one of my all-time favorites looks because it's beautiful and dainty for any style. I added it here for a more dressy/casual look with jeans, an overcoat and booties. You can also do lace for a very fancy look with a dress or a silk skirt and you can't go wrong with that gorgeous choice for the Holiday season and all year long!

Silky!!

I am ALWAYS a fan of a silk dress or skirt paired with a sweater. I wear it often and it's an easy way to reuse a silk dress that you may have worn to a Spring or Fall wedding. My trick for using a dress with a sweater is wearing your bra over the dress and under the sweater. You will tuck the sweater under and into the bra. This way your sweater doesn't hang too low and overwhelm the dress. I did it below with this outfit. Above in the monochromatic/fur look that is a silk skirt so you can tuck into the skirt or do the bra trick if the sweater is too bulky.

I hope these ideas help you or give you some inspiration to put together the best Holiday look that makes you feel extra special and stylish during the Holidays. Christmas & New Years are the best time of year, but we tend to be so busy that we have even less time to shop for ourselves. These are ways you can use pieces you may already have in the closet and create fun and beautiful outfits that will WOW! If you are looking for something new to add into your wardrobe, I have linked everything in my outfits above and some other pieces I think will help your looks as well.

Wishing you a Very Merry Christmas and the Best New Year!

Click below to shop what I am wearing or visit my LTKit -here-

Delight Your Guests with an Antipasto Christmas Wreath

Welcome to the Holiday season! With Christmas just around the corner, what better time to get creative with your holiday recipes? One of the most eye-catching and unique dishes to serve for any Christmas gathering is an antipasto Christmas wreath. This delicious and festive dish is sure to be the talk of the table. I think it is so cute that this dish is designed to look like your traditional Christmas wreath, with a variety of savory antipasto ingredients like salami, olives, cherry tomatoes, and cheese. Not only is this dish festive and colorful, but it's also a great way to feed a crowd without having to spend too much time slaving away in the kitchen. Read on to find out how to make stunning antipasto for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to wow your guests and give them something fun to change up the same old charcuterie boards we have been making all year.

This wreath is the ultimate edible centerpiece that promises to be as visually stunning as it is tantalizing to the taste buds. This culinary creation is both a feast for the eyes and a prelude to the main events of the holiday meal. Prepare to be the host with the most, as we show you how to delight your guests with an Antipasto Christmas Wreath that's guaranteed to be the talk of the table. The fun thing about this antipasto Christmas wreath is you can customize it in so many ways to make it all your own! You can change and swap the cured meats, add marinated artichoke hearts, and drizzle different toppings instead of the olive oil pesto I share below. Other delicious options for drizzle would be balsamic vinegar or garlic butter. YUM! This is one of my favorite recipes that I have found and is such a unique appetizer that is sure to be a hit for your first course of the meal. Another great option is to make this antipasto in the form of a candy cane instead of a wreath. Both are beautiful and perfectly festive for the Christmas season!

Start with a large round platter lined with arugula or green lettuce. Then layer the cured meats, such as salami, prosciutto, and soppressata, and top off the wreath with a variety of cheeses, olives, sundried tomatoes, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. For a festive look, add fresh herbs and edible flowers. Include a few different types of crackers on the side and a bowl of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. Enjoy the traditional flavors of Italy without leaving your home with this tasty and convenient dish. No cooking necessary - just assemble the ingredients and you're set! Your guests will be delighted by the unique presentation and delicious flavors of this antipasto Christmas wreath. This is a great way to provide an elegant and tasty centerpiece that will impress your guests this holiday season. To complete the experience, serve the wreath with a festive holiday cocktail. Your guests will love it! With a little bit of effort, you can create a beautiful and delicious antipasto Christmas wreath that will be the highlight of your holiday gathering.

Other Appetizers To Serve On The Side Of The Antipasto Wreath

For an appetizer that won't take too much time to prepare, pesto crostini is a great choice. Simply spread pesto on a toasted baguette, top with slices of fresh tomato and you will have a delicious and easy appetizer that is sure to please any crowd. Bruschetta is another classic Italian appetizer that is perfect for a holiday gathering. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic make the perfect topping for a toasted baguette. Stuffed mushrooms are also a great appetizer for your holiday party. Filled with a flavorful mix of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, these mushrooms are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Finally, antipasto skewers are a colorful and easy way to add some pizzazz to your antipasto Christmas wreath. Olives, artichokes, salami, and other delicious ingredients will make for a great presentation and a tasty treat. Delight your guests with all of these great choices, especially the Antipasto Christmas Wreath this holiday season. With a variety of options to choose from, whatever you prepare is sure to be a hit!

Holiday Antipasto Wreath Ingredients

4 oz salami salami

4 oz pepperoni

4 oz prosciutto

4 oz mortadella

1 pint cherry tomatoes

1 cup blue cheese stuffed olives or similar

8 oz favorite cubed cheese

8 oz Cherry sized mozzarella balls

Mezzetta Basil pesto

Olive oil

Fresh Basil

Arugula or other lettuce to lay down on a plate

Instructions

1. Layer arugula or other lettuce on your round plate of choice. I used a white dish to let the colors of the food stand out but feel free to add in holiday color and texture here also.

2. Lay out all of the ingredients so you can see everything you're using to assemble the antipasto skewers. Grab your skewer and start layering your meats, cheeses, veggies, and herbs! I change it up for each one so if a guest doesn't like one thing on one they can grab another. However, if you like to have more symmetry and keep it simple, then of course make them all the same. I also try to not put the same colors next to each other. So, meats and cherry tomatoes wouldn't go by each other but instead you can add olives, marinated artichokes, and mozzarella balls to add variety and color.

Now that you assembled the skewers and layered them in a wreath pattern you're ready to layer with a light sauce to make it extra delicious! I personally love the pesto & olive oil sauce I make but they give delicious combination variations to this dish. (another option if you are making for a big party is to add all 3 sauces on the side for the guests to pick whatever one they would like!).

3. Mix together the Mezzetta basil pesto and olive oil to your consistency. I add roughly 3 tablespoons. Stir and sprinkle over the antipasto skewers.

4. You can make this ahead of time and leave in the refrigerator in an airtight container and bring it out right before the guests arrive. I hope you ENJOY this recipe and that it gave you lots of inspiration for your holiday appetizers!

Other great recipes to try this holiday season:

A Crowd-Pleasing Stuffed Mushroom Recipe

How to Make the Perfect Pear and Pomegranate Arugula Salad

Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa Bar Station

Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies

Perfect Pairings: Savor the Flavor with Our Ultimate Steak and Feta Crostini Recipe!

Festive Flavors Unveiled: Crafting a Herb Christmas Tree Focaccia Bread Masterpiece for the Holidays

Indulge Your Taste Buds with The Ultimate Raspberry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe

A Crowd-Pleasing Stuffed Mushroom Recipe

If you're looking for an easy, crowd pleasing, finger grab appetizer, then look no further than this delicious stuffed mushroom recipe. This appetizer is the perfect start to any Christmas meal, but also just as fitting any time of the year! They are quick and easy to prepare, and sure to be a hit at your next gathering. This tasty dish is packed with flavor, thanks to a combination of creamy cheese, savory herbs, and my secret ingredient...chopped pecans. These are a great way to add some gourmet flair to your next gathering, and to be food friendly to most all types of guests. They are keto and vegetarian, making an incredibly versatile dish to bring to any holiday event. If you don't have anyone coming to your party that is vegetarian, and you want to add some delicious meat, my favorite to add in is Italian sausage for a great and hearty taste. Read on to discover the recipe and how to make these tasty stuffed mushrooms.

My Crowd pleasing stuffed mushroom recipe

Ingredients

15 large baby bell or portobello mushrooms

3 tablespoons butter

2 garlic cloves

1 small yellow onion

1 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

4 oz cream cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/3 cup chopped pecans

3 tablespoons fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. De-stem mushrooms, set aside tops and chop stems.

3. Take a sauté pan and heat adding butter and chopped mushroom stems. Sauté for 3-5 minutes. Add in chopped onion, garlic cloves, salt and pepper. Cooking until onion is soft and opaque.

4. Add stove top mixture to softened cream cheese, Parmesan and chopped pecans. Mix until well combined and fill mushroom tops!

5. Add into a casserole pan (or my personal favorite from 360 cookware the 9 by 13 bake & roast pan) and bake in oven for 20-25 min.

6. Sprinkle fresh parsley and serve!

For 20% off all 360 cookware use code AMANDAWARREN20

More Appetizer Recipes

Fruit & Goat Cheese Bruschetta

My Italian Seasoning Recipe

3 Easy Homemade Seasoning Recipes

How to Make the Perfect Pear and Pomegranate Arugula Salad

Looking for a unique and flavorful salad to serve at your next dinner party? Look no further than this Pear and Pomegranate Arugula Salad! The flavors come together so nicely with this salad from the sweetness of the pears and pomegranate seeds, complemented by the peppery arugula, and the bitterness of the feta cheese crumbles. You get a little bit of every delicious taste in your mouth. This salad is sure to impress your guests during this Christmas season and beyond! It's also a beautiful looking dish to bring to any gathering.

You can pair this with chicken for a wonderfully balanced combination, and it typically will serve 5-6 people if used as a main dish. Of course, if served as a side salad in addition to your delicious breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner you can serve as many people as you want. It's honestly good enough to enjoy any time of the day.

Ingredients

10 ounces of arugula salad

1/2 cup Pomegranate seeds

1/2 cup feta cheese ( goat cheese is also a delicious addition)

1 thinly sliced red pear

1 thinly sliced green pear

Ingredients For Dressing

1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

1/4 balsamic vinegar

1/2 cup raw honey

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

Instructions

1. Rinse and pat dry all fruit and vegetables.

2. Add all dressing ingredients into blender and blend until smooth. I use fresh pomegranate seeds but pom pomegranates arils are great when in a hurry! This dressing can be premade in an airtight container in refrigerator up to 2 days ahead of time.

3. Now it's time to assemble the pear and pomegranate arugula salad. Add half the pomegranates seeds, half feta cheese, and half of both thinly sliced pears. Pour dressing over top and mix up! Then layer remainder of pears on top. Sprinkle feta cheese and pomegranates on top and serve!

I hope you enjoy this delicious salad recipe during Christmas season and all year around! For another favorite salad head to my Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad with Apples, Goat Cheese & Candied Pecans.

To Shop These plates head -here- holly napkins head -here-. For all other items shown here you can shop my LTK -here-

Quick & Easy Enchiladas using Happi Foodi

When life gets busy we all tend to grab quick and easy bites on the go. Usually those quick, easy bites aren’t the healthiest of choices! I love having Happi Foodi bowls and other delicious quick meals on hand that I can warm up when pressed for time. I also love adding a little extra something to their bowls at times to make it a whole new meal, but without the time consuming work! Today I’m going to share how I make the Happi Foodi enchilada bowl into enchiladas by using the bowl for the filling. So easy and delicious!

Ingredients:

1 box of Happi Foodi enchilada bowl

4-6 tortillas

1 can of green enchilada sauce

6-8oz cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375

2. Layer bottom of pan with enchilada sauce

3. Fill each tortilla with Happi Foodi enchilada bowl and roll. Lay into prepared dish of enchilada sauce.

4. Layer the top with enchilada sauce again and cheese!

5. Bake in oven for 20-25 min.

6. Enjoy!

My Dining Room Decor For Christmas: How I Made My Dining Room Festive

It's that time of year again! Time to get out the Christmas decor and get your home ready for the holidays. If you're looking for some inspiration for your dining room, look no further. Here are my dining room decor ideas that I put together for my own space. I hope you enjoy it and get inspired to spruce up your own homes this holiday season!

This year, in our new home I decided to add more to my dining room decor for Christmas. I love that I have more room in this house, with a formal dining room, and I even added in our Christmas tree to the room. It makes it feel so cozy when we eat and walk up to the house because that window faces the front yard. The room gives a great evergreen feeling. I decorated the tree with velvet ribbon and antique ornaments, which I feel gave it a French country vibe that I really love to have as a basic theme for our home.

This year instead of my regular floral centerpieces on the table, I decided to do the cutest pots filled with different varieties of poinsettia. I found the flowers at Walmart & Trader Joes and went with 3 different colors. They have them in different shades of pinks, greens, reds and creams. I mixed and matched the sizes and varieties of pots for a wonderful and elevated arrangement.

I used traditional red and green colors, and I added more greens into the fun textured plates, layering two and adding in a red detailed napkin. I found these all on Zara Home and will link them all below.

With the beautiful table top I used my favorite gold napkins and layered two Lenox holiday glasses. I love the simple detail on these glasses, but I feel they still helped the area stay very Christmas and festive.

I hope you love my Christmas dining room this year! It is always such a joy to decorate and come up with a wonderful theme and share with you all. Have fun with all your decorating, and let your guests enjoy and admire as you entertain! For all links and to shop my furniture, collection of dishes and more I will link below. They are also on my Like To Know It app to shop anytime.

LINKS:

Sideboards - From Ballard Designs linked here

Mirror - From Anthropologie linked here

Chairs - From World Market linked here

Table - From Arhaus linked here

Dishes - From Zara Home linked here

Napkins - From Zara Home linked here & here

Glasses - From Lenox linked here

Cutlery - From Amazon linked here

Tree - From King of Christmas linked here

Dress - From Red Dress linked here

Pots - From Terrain linked here and here

Wreath - From Target linked here

Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa Bar Station

Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa Bar Station

If you love a delicious cup of hot cocoa and are serving it for a crowd at a party or event, then you will love this Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa Bar Station idea! This hot cocoa bar is a perfect looking setup for parties and makes for a fun way to make and display the cocoa. There are so many ways to customize different ingredients in your cocoa to make it just the way you like it. With this hot cocoa bar, you can have all the fixings for the hot cocoa ready to go and all you have to do is mix it up and turn on your slow cooker 2 hours before your company arrives.

One of my favorite things to do for company is to be very detailed with the small things, but also be practical and leave yourself time for the other things you have to do and not be rushing to make the cocoa last minute. It's also a fun way for the guests to get creative when making their own cup!

Some of my favorite things to add in the hot cocoa station and on the tray are heavy whipping cream, Chocolate chips, sprinkles, cookies, cinnamon sticks, caramel, and candy canes. Christmas is such a special time of year and adding in little touches to the station like Santa mugs and Holiday decor will help the area feel even more special and festive for all your December celebrations!

HOT COCOA RECIPE

Ingredients

Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa

1- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup cocoa powder unsweetened

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

4 cups whole milk

4 cups half and half

Marshmallows

Directions:

1. Mix together all ingredients in slow cooker

2. Turn on slow cooker to 1 to 2. Stirring every 30 min for 2 hours.

3. Top with marshmallows and turn slow cooker all the way down.

4. You can leave slow cooker on low to serve and enjoy for 2-3 hours.

5. Stir again before serving and Enjoy! 

You can shop my slow cooker on 360 Cookware -shop here- and use code AMANDWARREN20 for 20% off your entire purchase! I love that this is the only slow cooker that is stainless steel and made in the USA. Amazing quality that will last you a lifetime!