There are, by my count, at least seven levels of fried chicken. The worst of them is good; the best, which I waited forty-four years to find, led to what can only be called an out-of-body experience. Let’s start at …
Ideas for Casserole Dinners
Casseroles make for easy dinners because they are usually complete meals served out of just one dish. In addition, most casseroles freeze well so cooks can make multiple casseroles ahead of time and just pop them in the oven for a dinner on a busy day. All casseroles should be baked at about 350 degrees Fahrenheit until they are bubbly throughout. Add this to my Recipe Box.
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Squash Casserole
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Squash casserole is best made with a combination of yellow squash and zucchini, both readily available in the summer. In the winter, experiment with acorn squash and butternut squash instead for a heavier casserole. Chop and saute an onion until translucent. Turn off the heat and mix the onion with about 3 to 4 cups of cubed squash, 3/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese and 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese. Spoon the mixture into a casserole dish and cover with 3/4 cup bread crumbs.
Cottage Pie
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Cottage pie has a layer of meat, vegetables and gravy covered in a couple inches of fluffy mashed potatoes. It is also known as shepherd's pie, although shepherd's pie is traditionally made with lamb, whereas cottage pie uses beef. Make the pie by cooking ground or cubed beef and adding cooked mixed vegetables, gravy and seasonings of choice. Spread these in the bottom of a casserole dish. Top with homemade mashed potatoes or instant mashed potatoes for a simpler dinner.
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Chicken Enchilada Casserole
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Make a simple Mexican-inspired casserole that is a cross between lasagna and enchiladas. Mix together equal amounts of enchilada sauce and cream of chicken soup, add some shredded chicken and diced onions. Spread a layer of this, 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick, over the bottom of a casserole dish. Sprinkle with a generous handful of grated cheddar cheese. Tear corn tortillas into quarters and piece them together to form a layer over the cheese. Repeat the process until the casserole reaches the top of the dish.
Rice Casserole
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Use leftover white or brown rice as the base for a hearty casserole. Mix about 6 cups of cooked rice with a sauteed onion and some minced garlic. Stir in chopped cooked greens, 1/4 cup cream cheese, 1/2 cup cottage cheese, three eggs and herbs to taste. Spread in a casserole dish and sprinkle a light layer of Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese on top.
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