Easy Peasy Totchos

While we can’t forget about Taco Tuesday, we have to admit that whenever someone says Nachos a gathering is in order.  I thought it would be fun to take away the tortilla chips and add tater tots to the dish and create Totchos.  These totchos can be a hit at the dinner table.  This is one recipe that can call for endless toppings for you and your guests.  Give totchos a try during your next gathering or Taco Tuesday night.

 

~XOXO

Ingredients

1 2 lb bag ( 32 oz) of Tater Tots

1 lb Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey)

Taco Seasoning ( 1 package)

1 cup of shredded cheddar ( or add to your desired cheesy goodness)

5 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies ( 10 oz can drained and reminder set aside for later use)

*Sour Cream (used as topping when done)

 

Heat Oven to 450 degrees F (Or according to package instructions)

Place 3/4 tater tots bag onto a baking sheet using a single layer method (ensuring the tots are not on top one another).  Place in over and bake of 25 mins or according to package instructions.  Turn oven off.  Remove ( using pot holders or gloves) tater tots from oven and set aside.

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Place a medium sauce pan on medium heat.  *Optional.  I added 1 tsp of avocado oil to the pan.  Add the ground beef and cook until well done ( breaking up and chopping the meat).  Drain or spoon any access oil from the pan.  Add taco seasoning and (drained) diced tomatoes.  Stir.  Turn heat to low.

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Arrange the tater tots onto a plate adding the neat mixture and shredded cheese.  To melt the cheese, I simply put the plate into the microwave for 60 – 90 seconds.  You can also place the plate back into the oven for 3-5 mins as the oven will be still hot and cooling off.

Add a dollop of sour cream or any other topping you fancy.

Enjoy.

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Chicken Cordon BLY!

Our first visit to The Pinewood in downtown Decatur, GA was a lovely experience.  Using the Resy app, we were able to make reservations for Brunch with no issues.  I have a new found love for a dish called the Chicken Cordon BLY!  The mouth-watering crispy chicken is topped with ham and swiss cheese while being sandwiched in between two slices of a cheddar waffle.  I complemented the dish with a drizzle of maple syrup which added more perfection.  The Pinewood brunch is a winner!  Thanks to the staff for being so welcoming and fun.  Give The Pinewood a try for Brunch on your next visit to Decatur, GA.

~XOXO

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The Chicken Cordon BLY! | Savory herbed cheddar waffle, crispy chicken, sliced ham, Swiss cheese, crystal chicken gravy, home fries

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HUEVOS RANCHEROS VERDES | 2 poached eggs, pork chili verde, shaved parmesan, red beans, corn tortillas

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Bottomless Mimosas!

The Pinewood

254 WEST PONCE DE LEON AVE.

DECATUR, GA 30030

404.373.5507

Photos By: Haus of Kelley, LLC | Instagram @hausofkelley

Visit Me on Instagram @thefrenchlilly

 

 

Peach Cobbler Tini

I am the family’s go to person when comes to “What’s for dessert??” requests.  And everyone’s favorite request is Peach Cobbler.  It all started about 5 years ago and I read a recipe on allrecipes.com for a Southern Style Peach Cobbler.  After baking my first cobbler, I was hooked and over the years have added my own spin to it.  Baking is so good for the soul.  It allows you to relax, focus and put nothing but love into the pan.  I dressed up this sweet and sassy dessert with vanilla ice cream and a martini glass.  I hope you give the recipe a try.

~XOXO

Ingredients:

5-7 Whole Peaches: Makes up to 2 lbs (If not in season, canned or frozen will do)

Sugar 1 cup

All Purpose Flour 1 cup

Brown Sugar 1/2 cup

Nutmeg 1/8 tsp

Cinnamon 1/2 tsp

Cornstarch 1 tbsp

1 stick of Unsalted Butter (Cut into cubes)

Lemon Juice 1/2 tsp

Vanilla Extract 1/2 tsp

Almond Extract 1/4 tsp

Salt 1/4 tsp

Baking Powder 1 tsp

Hot Water 1 tbsp

Preheat Oven to 350 degrees F

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Fresh Peaches: Remove skin and pit.  Cut each peach into 6-8 slices.  Place in bowl.

Removing Skin Tip: Boil Peaches for up to 60 seconds.  Remove and place in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.  Skin should easily peel.  *(No worries if the peaches started to cook, it’s a learning process)

If using Canned or Frozen peaches, drain or thaw thoroughly.

In same bowl with peaches: add lemon juice, 1/2 cup of white sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, cornstarch, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract, nutmeg, 1/4 tsp cinnamon.  Mix well and place into baking pan or dish.

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Bake Mixture in oven for 15-30 mins.

In a mixing bowl: add flour, butter, 1/2 white sugary, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 vanilla extract, 1/4 almond extract, baking powder, and salt.  Place on stir or level 1.

As the mixture blends, carefully add the hot water.  The mixture should resemble a sand-like texture.  Open the oven and pull the baking pan rack forward (not removing pan completely) and spread the topping over the filling.  Place rack back in oven and continue to bake.

Bake for 45 mins.  The peach cobbler should be golden brown and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and let sit for at least 15 mins.  Serve with your favorite ice cream.  Enjoy.

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Option: Set the table and use a stylish glass for guests

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