This Maple Bourbon Sour puts a seasonal twist on the classic Bourbon Sour Cocktail. Maple syrup adds a rich, caramel sweetness that pairs beautifully with bourbon's warmth, while the fresh lemon juice keeps everything balanced and refreshing. Simple, sophisticated and so easy to make, this cocktail is sure to be a favorite and pairs perfectly with our favorite Maple Snickerdoodle Cookies.  

Ingredient Notes

• Bourbon- Choose a smooth, mid-range bourbon with flavors of vanilla or caramel for the best flavor.
• Pure Maple Syrup- Use real maple syrup, not pancake syrup for an authentic richness and depth.
• Fresh Lemon Juice- Fresh squeezed lemon juice adds a perfect tart flavor to this simple cocktail
• Garnish-Candied lemons or lemon peel, cinnamon sticks or a sprig of rosemary for a cozy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, maple syrup, and fresh lemon juice.
3. Shake well for about 10-15 seconds, until the shaker feels chilled.
4. Strain into a glass filled with ice or a large ice cube.
5. Garnish with candied lemon, lemon feel, a cinnamon stick or a sprig of rosemary!

How To Make Candied Lemon Slices

A fun and easy garnish that you can make ahead and keep to be sure you are ready whenever you need a Maple Bourbon Sour Cocktail.  Candied Lemon Slices are the perfect garnish to your cocktail and pretty tasty to eat.  In a small saucepan bring to a boil ½ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup water until the sugar has dissolved.  Place your thinly sliced lemon pieces into the syrup and continue simmering for 2-3 minutes.  Turn the heat off and let the lemon slices sit in the syrup for 20 minutes.  Remove the lemon slices from the syrup and place them on a cooling rack.  Allow the Candied Lemon Slices to dry for 3-4 hours or best overnight (flipping halfway through).  Once they are dried, store in an airtight container for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Tips and FAQS for the Best Maple Bourbon Sour

• Adjust the sweetness to taste- Start with less maple syrup and add more if needed.
• Use quality ingredients- With only three ingredients, make sure to use the best so that the flavors can shine.
• Chill your glass- Chill your glass to keep the cocktail refreshing longer!
• Batch It!-If you are having several guests over, you a double or triple the recipe for easy entertaining!

More Cocktails You Will Love

Thank you for visiting Joy + Oliver. If you tried this recipe, please leave a 5 Star Review in the recipe card and save all your favorite recipes to Pinterest!

Please visit us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more of our favorite recipes that you will love!

Print

Maple Bourbon Sour Cocktail

If you are craving a cozy cocktail with just the right balance of sweet and bold flavors, this Maple Bourbon Sour is it. Made with real maple syrup, fresh squeezed lemon juice and a smooth bourbon, it's a warm yet bright drink that feels equally perfect for fall gatherings or winter nights by the fire or an elevated happy hour at home.

Course cocktails

Cuisine Cocktails

Prep Time 3 minutes minutes

Total Time 3 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Calories 156kcal

Author Kristen Massad

Ingredients

• 1 ½ ounces Bourbon
• ¾ ounce Fresh Lemon Juice
• ¾ ounce Maple Syrup
• Ice
• Garnish: Candied Lemon Slices and Fresh Rosemary

Instructions

• In a cocktail shaker combine the bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup and fill with ice
• Shake until fully combined and pour into your favorite cocktail glass
• Garnish with candied lemon slices and fresh rosemary
• Serve immediately

Nutrition

Serving: 1cocktail | Calories: 156kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 49mg | Sugar: 13g | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 1mg

Winter citrus flavors are the perfect addition to sweet and savory dishes as well as our favorite cocktails! After a heavy and food filled season of celebrating through the holidays, citrus flavors are always welcome in my kitchen!

Skinny Blood Orange Margarita is not to sweet and not to tart, it is the best of both worlds and paired with our favorite tequila! Made with a few fresh juices, tequila, honey or agave nectar and grand mariner and you are all set with this easy and delicious margarita!

While you are juicing these ruby red blood oranges, add this Blood Orange Yogurt Cake to your oven and you will be in for a treat!

Ingredients

Tequila-Choose your favorite tequila brand, but I love Casamigos Blanco or Reposado for a smooth finish!
Blood Orange Juice-Fresh squeezed is the best option for this cocktail!
Lime Juice- Fresh squeezed lime juice is the only way to go when making margaritas! The bottled lime juice will change the flavor of your drink.
Grand Marnier- An orange flavor liqueur that adds the perfect punch of flavor to this orange cocktail.
Sweetener-Two options for a healthy sweet addition, agave nectar is a great option to keep on hand, but a more natural option is honey!
Sparkling Water-Adding a little fizz to the cocktail! I am a lover of topo chico, but any sparkling water will be great!

Step-by-Step Directions

• In a cocktail shaker combine the tequila, blood orange juice, lime juice, grand mariner and agave nectar or honey and shake to combine 
• Pour the blood orange margarita over a glasss full of ice and top it off with sparkling water 
• Garnish with a blood orange slice and a thyme sprig
• Serve immediately and Enjoy!

Tips and FAQS For The Best Blood Orange Margarita

Fresh Ingredients- This Skinny Margarita is best with fresh ingredients! Jarred juiced will change the flavor and will add a lot of sugar to this cocktail.

Tequila- When making cocktail that tequila is in the spotlight, make sure to grab a good quality tequila. Casamigos blanco or reposado are our favorites!

More Citrus Recipes You Will Love

Thank you for visiting Joy + Oliver. If you tried this recipe, please leave a 5 Star Review in the recipe card and save all your favorite recipes to Pinterest!

Please visit us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more of our favorite recipes that you will love!

Print

Skinny Blood Orange Margarita

Bright, fresh and festive-this Skinny Blood Orange Margarita is the made with winter citrus and a perfect way to ring in the new year! Made with vibrant fresh squeezed blood oranges, fresh citrus and the right amount of tequila that delivers bold flavor with a touch of sweet. Light, refreshing and beautifully colored, it's an easy cocktail-ideal for toasting to a fresh start and a year ahead worth celebrating.

Course cocktails

Cuisine Cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Total Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1 cocktail

Calories 119kcal

Author Kristen Massad

Ingredients

• 2 Ounces Tequila Reposado
• 2 Ounces Blood Orange Juice Fresh Squeezed
• 1 Ounce Lime Juice Fresh Squeezed
• ½ Ounce Grand Marnier
• ½ Ounce Agave Nectar or Honey
• Sparkling Water
• Ice

Instructions

• In a cocktail shaker combine the tequila, blood orange juice, lime juice, grand mariner and agave nectar or honey and shake to combine
• Pour the blood orange margarita over a glasss full of ice and top it off with sparkling water
• Garnish with a blood orange slice and a thyme sprig
• Serve immediately and Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 3mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 128IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 1mg

This Christmas Fruit Wreath is more than just a healthy and festive side dish, it is super easy to make, full of flavor and fresh ingredients and a gorgeous centerpiece for your table. With a combination of vibrant fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blackberries, and green grapes, the addition of some chocolate dipped fruit and dried fruit paired with a delicious, tangy and creamy maple yogurt dip, this fruit wreath is sure to become a new holiday tradition.

While you are creating this beautiful wreath, it is important to know that you can customize the fruit assortment to your liking. This easy appetizer or side dish will pair perfectly with a glass of bubbles and our favorite and sparkly Sugared Cranberries (sprinkle these on the fruit wreath to add a touch of shimmer and shine).

Ingredient Notes

Seasonal Fruit: While you can use any fruit, try to choose fruit that is in season for the best flavor. I love adding fresh strawberries, blackberries, raspberries and green grapes. You can also add some dried fruit for texture and flavor.

Herbs: Rosemary and mint are great options for the base of the wreath as well as the garnish. These herbs had a perfect aroma and perfect amount of color for this festive dish.

Maple Yogurt Dip: Homemade yogurt dip that is sweetened with maple syrup, vanilla bean paste and a dash of cinnamon.

Sugared Cranberries: Adding the perfect amount of sparkle as a final touch. These are easy to make and can be sprinkles on the fruit wreath and also used in your favorite holiday cocktail.

Steps-by-Step Direction to Make the Best Fruit Wreath

Prepare the Fruit

• Wash and dry all the fruit
• Slice the fruit or dip the fruit in chocolate

Assemble the Wreath

• On a large round platter, arrange the rosemary sprigs in a circle to form the base of the wreath.
• Add the fruit starting with strawberries, adding blackberries and grapes and then continue alternating until all the fruit is added
• Add the fresh mint leaves in between all the fruit and then sprinkle in a few sugared cranberries for garnish

Make the Maple Yogurt Dip

• In a small bowl, whisk together the greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla bean paste and cinnamon until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve

Serve

• Place the dip in a small bowl and add to the center of the wreath. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve! Enjoy!

Tips to Make The Perfect Christmas Fruit Wreath

Fruit Variation
Be creative and choose your favorite fruit to make this festive wreath. You can add all fresh fruits, dried fruit or an assortment of both. I also love adding chocolate dipped fruit for a sweet surprise.

The Perfect Dips
I love this Maple Yogurt Dip, but you can always change it out for something different. Adding a chocolate dip to make this similar to a fondue or a delicious poppy seed dip would also be a great addition.

Assembly and Serving
It is best to assemble and serve this fruit wreath the same day so that the ingredients are super fresh and don't get dried out from the refrigerator.

More Holiday Recipes You Will Love

Thank you for visiting Joy + Oliver. If you tried this recipe, please leave a 5 Star Review in the recipe card and save all your favorite recipes to Pinterest!

Please visit us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more of our favorite recipes that you will love!

Print

Christmas Fruit Wreath

When it comes to holiday entertaining, few things are as eye-catching (and easy) as a Christmas Fruit Wreath. Made with an array of colorful fruits, fresh rosemary sprigs and mint leaves. This centerpiece doubles as both a feast for the eyes and a healthy snack. Paired with a creamy Maple Yogurt Dip, it's a festive, crowd-pleasing, and healthy treat for your next holiday gathering.

Course Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Breakfast, Dessert

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 6 People

Calories 122kcal

Author Kristen Massad

Ingredients

Maple Yogurt Dip

• 1 Cup Greek Yogurt
• 2 Tablespoons Maple Syrup
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste (or vanilla extract)
• ½ Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

Fruit Wreath

• 8-10 Sprigs of Rosemary
• 2 Cup Whole Strawberries
• 1 Cup Blackberries
• 1 Cup Green Grapes
• 1 Cup Dried Apricots
• Chocolate (optional for dipping)
• Garnish: Fresh Mint and Sugared Cranberries

Instructions

Maple Yogurt Dip

• In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla bean paste and cinnamon and whisk to combine.
• Pour the Maple Yogurt Dip into a small bowl and place in the center of the platter

Fruit Wreath

• On a large round platter with the Maple Yogurt Dip bowl in the middle, lay the rosemary sprigs in a circle to create the base of the wreath.
• Start layering the fruit in a , strawberries, blackberries and grapes until all the fruit is all placed on the platter.
• Add the chocolate dipped fruit and chocolate dipped dried fruit and then garnish with the fresh mint leaves and the sugared cranberries.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 122kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 0.4g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.05g | Trans Fat: 0.002g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 16mg | Potassium: 401mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 851IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 67mg | Iron: 1mg

There is something magical about a bowl of Homemade Cranberry Sauce on the Thanksgiving table-bright, sweet/tart and made in minutes. It brings the perfect pop of color and flavor to every plate. This simple holiday side dish is a perfect addition to go with all your favorite fall and Thanksgiving classics, like our Classic Pumpkin Pie, the irresistibly creamy Baked Brie and Pumpkin Butter appetizer and the Best Apple Cider Tequila Punch. Whether you are hosing a big crowd or keeping things cozy and small, this easy cranberry sauce ties your whole holiday menu together with a burst of fresh, seasonal flavor.

Ingredient Notes

Fresh Cranberries
Only use fresh cranberries for this recipe. They burst as they cook, creating a naturally thick and glossy sauce.

Orange Juice + Zest
Fresh orange juice brightens the flavor and balances the tartness of the cranberries. Adding bit of zest intensifies the citrus notes and gives the sauce a fresh finish.

Light Brown Sugar
Adding a sweetness to the tart cranberries, light brown sugar is a great caramelized flavor. You can adjust the sweetness to taste.

Water
A small amount of water helps the cranberries simmer evenly without burning.

Optional Add-Ins
Cinnamon Sticks are a great addition for a simple fall spiced flavor, Vanilla extract or bourbon, or chopped apples for another texture.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Sauce

• Don't Overcook: Once the cranberries have burst remove the cranberry sauce from the heat. Over cooking could make the sauce way to thick and bitter.
• It thickens as it cools: Don't worry if it doesn't look super thick, as it cools the sauce will get thicker.
• Make it ahead: Cranberry Sauce is the perfect recipe to make ahead of time. You can me this up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Serve: This recipe can be served at room temperature or chilled!

FAQS

More Thanksgiving Recipes You will Love

Thank you for visiting Joy + Oliver. If you tried this recipe, please leave a 5 Star Review in the recipe card and save all your favorite recipes to Pinterest!

Please visit us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more of our favorite recipes that you will love!

Print

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

There is nothing more nostalgic on a Thanksgiving table than a bowl of vibrant, Homemade Cranberry Sauce. This classic and easy Cranberry Sauce comes together in less than 15 minutes and adds the perfect sweet-tart pop to your turkey, ham or savory stuffing. Made with only five ingredients, this recipe brings comfort, color and a classic holiday flavor without any fuss.

Course Appetizer, Side Dish

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 6 Servings

Calories 144kcal

Author Kristen Massad

Ingredients

• 12 Ounces Fresh Cranberries
• ½ Cup Water
• ½ Cup Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice
• ¾ Cup Light Brown Sugar
• 1 Teaspoon Orange Zest
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 Cinnamon Stick Optional

Instructions

• Place all ingredients in a medium sauce pan
• Bring ingredients to a boil and then lower the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the cranberries burst and the liquid starts to thicken
• Remove the pan from the heat, transfer to a glass bowl and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature and thicken
• Serve at room temperature or wrap and refrigerate until you are ready to serve

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 10mg | Potassium: 127mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 31g | Vitamin A: 78IU | Vitamin C: 19mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 0.4mg

As soon as the temperatures drop and the pumpkins appear, I am ready to bake all the cozy recipes-starting with this Pumpkin Baked Brie. This easy fall appetizer looks impressive but comes together with just a few ingredients. A wheel of Brie is wrapped in puff pastry, filled with pumpkin butter and baked until golden and gooey. Shaped and tied to resemble a pumpkin, it's the perfect centerpiece for your fall gathering or the star of a seasonal charcuterie board. Serve it warm with crackers, apple slices, meats and other cheeses and watch it disappear!

Ingredients You Will Need

• Brie Wheel: Use a 7-8ounce round of Brie for the best results. You can leave the rind on, it helps hold it together while baking.
• Puff Pastry: Store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe super easy. Be sure to thaw it before using.
• Pumpkin Butter: Adding the perfect touch of fall flavor and sweetness. Other fruit butters or jams work great as well!
• Egg Wash: Made with 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush on the puff pastry for a golden brown look.
• Twine: Kitchen-safe twine helps create the pumpkin shape. Don't skip this…it is the secret to make the cute presentation.

Steps to Make the Adorable Pumpkin Baked Brie

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven at 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry: Place the puff pastry on the parchment paper and spread the pumpkin butter to be about the same size as the brie wheel and place the brie on top of the pumpkin butter

3. Wrap it up: Bring the puff pastry edge up and over the Brie, pinching the dough together. Flip the wrapped brie over so the flat surface is on top

4. Shape the Pumpkin: Using the kitchen twine, tie the twine around the brie to create the sections of a pumpkin (4-6 pieces of twine)

5. Brush with Egg Wash: Whisk the egg and brush the puff pastry to add a golden shine

Bake: Bake the wrapped brie for 35 minutes or until the puff pastry is light golden brown

Cool and Garnish: Let the baked brie rest for 5 minutes, remove the twine and garnish with a cinnamon stick and sage leaf. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and FAQS for Making the Best Pumpkin Baked Brie

• Work with Cold Puff Pastry: Make sure that the puff pastry is defrosted but still cold. If the puff pastry gets to warm it will lose its shape and be very sticky.
• Use parchment paper: When you are wrapping the brie, place the puff pastry on parchment paper so you can transfer it to a baking sheet easily.
• Serve Immediately: Baked Brie is best enjoyed warm and gooey right out of the oven!
• Garnish: After baking, add a cinnamon stick and a sage leaf to create the perfect pumpkin

Thank you for visiting Joy + Oliver. If you tried this recipe, please leave a 5 Star Review in the recipe card and save all your favorite recipes to Pinterest!

Please visit us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more of our favorite recipes that you will love!

Print

Fall Appetizer: Pumpkin Baked Brie

Nothing says fall entertaining quite like this Pumpkin Baked Brie! Warm, flaky puff pastry wrapped around creamy Brie and sweet pumpkin butter-tied up with twine to look just like a little pumpkin. It's festive, elegant and the easiest appetizer you'll make this season!

Course Appetizer

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 6 Servings

Calories 287kcal

Author Kristen Massad

Ingredients

• 1 Sheet Puff Pastry Thawed
• 1 8 ounce Brie Wheel
• ¼ Cup Pumpkin Butter
• 1 Egg Whisked
• 1 Sage Leaf
• 1 Cinnamon Stick

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
• Lay the puff pastry on the parchment paper and spread the pumpkin butter in the center (about the same size as the brie wheel)
• Place the brie wheel on top of the pumpkin butter
• Wrap the puff pastry around the brie and pinch the edges to seal
• Flip the puff pastry wrapped brie over so the flat surface is on top and wrap the kitchen twine around the brie to create the pumpkin indentions.
• Brush the puff pastry with the whisked egg using a pastry brush
• Bake for 35 minutes or until the puff pastry is a light golden color
• Allow the Baked Brie to cool for 5 minutes and then carefully cut and remove the twine from the baked brie
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick and sage leaf to create the pumpkin design
• Serve immediately! Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 287kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 151mg | Sodium: 159mg | Potassium: 104mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 841IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 2mg

Growing up in an Italian family, spaghetti and meatballs were a staple for Sunday dinner. The smell would fill the kitchen and we would all look forward to this comfort meal and gathering around the table together. As I have a family of my own, I have loved filling our kitchen with the smell of the most delicious Italian food and watching my kids enjoy the best homemade Italian meatballs, just like I did.

These homemade meatballs are tender, flavorful and packed with homemade love. The secret? A perfect blend of meats, ground beef and veal (I also love beef and bison combination). Serve over spaghetti, tucked into a crusty bread for a meatball sandwich or enjoy on their own with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese…this is pure comfort!

Ingredient Notes

Meat: I use a combination of two different meats for my meatballs. I love using ground beef and veal for a lighter flavor or ground beef and bison for a richer flavor.

Breadcrumbs: Plain or Italian breadcrumbs work great. If you use Italian breadcrumbs, you do not need to add in the extra Italian seasoning. Gluten free breadcrumbs also work great!

Eggs: Eggs are a binding agent for the meat and also keep the meatballs very moist!

Cheese: Parmesan Cheese is a great addition to these meatballs, adding a slightly salty and rich flavor.

Seasoning: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder and salt and pepper add the perfect amount of flavor to each meatball.

Water: Don't skip this step! Adding half the water to soak the breadcrumbs and the remainder of the water to the meat mixture, this will keep the meatballs moist and tender.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and water and allow them to soak for 5 minutes.
• Add the beef and veal, eggs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt and black pepper to the soaked breadcrumbs.
• Using your hands, mix until fully combined, slowly adding the remainder of the water to the meat mixture while mixing.

Shape the Meatballs

• Roll the meatball mixture into balls about 1 ½ inches in diameter and place them on a lined baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

• Bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are browned and the internal temperature is 165 degrees F

Simmer in Sauce

• Place the cooked meatballs into the warm tomato sauce and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes

Serve

• Place the meatballs in a serving bowl or over a big bowl of pasta, garnish with fresh grated parmesan cheese and basil! Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Meatballs

• Use a mix of meats- I always use beef and then combine with bison or veal for extra flavor and tenderness
• Soak the breadcrumbs- this keeps the meatballs moist and tender!
• Make them GLUTEN FREE-Use your favorite gluten free breadcrumbs and they turn out delicious!
• Add Water- adding water is a trip my parents taught me and this is the only way that these meatballs stay so tender
• Don't Overmix- Mix all ingredients with your hands to ensure you don't overmix them
• Sear or Bake- Although this recipe says to bake the meatballs, you can sear them on the stove until browned and then cook them in the sauce to reach the final temperature (165 degrees F). If you sear them, they will take about an hour to finish cooking in the tomato sauce.
• Let them rest and simmer in the sauce- The longer they sit in the sauce the better!

More Savory Recipes You Will Love

Thank you for visiting Joy + Oliver. If you tried this recipe, please leave a 5 Star Review in the recipe card and save all your favorite recipes to Pinterest!

Please visit us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more of our favorite recipes that you will love!

Print

Best Homemade Italian Meatball Recipe

Tender and full of flavor, the Best Homemade Italian Meatball Recipe is comfort food that is made of the perfect blend of two meats, herbs and plenty of love. Whether served over pasta, tucked into a crusty roll or enjoyed straight from the pot, these will be a family favorite.

Course Main Course, Recipe

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings 12 Meatballs

Calories 202kcal

Author Kristen Massad

Ingredients

Homemade Tomato Sauce

• 2 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• ½ Yellow Onion, Minced
• 4 Garlic Cloves, Minced
• 2 28 Ounce Cans Whole Tomatoes
• 2 Teaspoons Salt
• ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper
• 3 Fresh Basil Leaves

Homemade Italian Meatballs

• 1 Pound Ground Beef (90% to 10% Lean)
• 1 Pound Ground Veal Or Bison (I love both)
• 2 Eggs
• ¾ Cup Breadcrumbs, Plain or Italian You can also use Gluten Free Breadcrumbs!
• ½ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
• 2 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning (only use if you use plain breadcrumbs)
• 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1 Cup Cold Water

Instructions

Homemade Tomato Sauce

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced onions and garlic and sauté until the onions are translucent.
• In a blender, combine the canned whole tomatoes, salt, pepper and fresh basil and blend until smooth (you might need to blend in two batches so it doesn't overflow!)
• Pour the pureed tomatoes into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Once the sauce has simmered, remove the sauce from the heat until the meatballs are ready.

Homemade Italian Meatballs

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and prepare a baking dish, lightly covered with olive oil or a sheet pan lined with parchment paper; set aside
• Soak the Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl combine the breadcrumbs and ½ cup cold water; allow these to sit for 5 minutes.
• Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, veal (or bison), eggs, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper and the remaining ½ cup cold water. Using your hands, mix all the ingredients together until everything is fully combined.
• Shape the Meatballs: Scoop the beef and bison mixture into 3 ounce balls and roll until the ball is smooth. Place them on your prepared baking dish leaving a little space in between each meatball.
• Bake and Simmer the Meatballs: Place the meatballs in the 400 degree F oven for 20-25 minutes. The meatballs will turn brown on top and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to the pot with warm tomato sauce. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for at 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the meatballs are covered in sauce.
• Serve the warm meatballs over pasta or with your favorite loaf of bread!

Nutrition

Serving: 1Meatball | Calories: 202kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 76mg | Sodium: 670mg | Potassium: 296mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 85IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 69mg | Iron: 3mg

Why You Will Love This Chicken Salad

There is something so comforting and timeless about a classic chicken salad, something I grew up eating and now my kids love as well. It is creamy, crunchy, savory and a touch of sweet and the best part, it is super quick to make. Using store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time but also adds the most delicious flavor that you can get with boiled chicken. Sandwich this Rotisserie Chicken Salad between a buttery croissant, whole grain bread or served over greens with your favorite crackers, this chicken salad is so versatile and absolutely delicious.

This recipe is classic and extra special because of the layers of flavor and textures. Shredded chicken, crunchy celery, juicy apples, slightly sweet dried cranberries and mayonnaise adds a creamy texture that pulls it all together.

Ingredient Notes

Rotisserie Chicken: The real hero of this recipe. One whole rotisserie chicken (about 3 cups of shredded chicken) will add flavor and save so much time!

Mayonnaise: Choose a high quality mayo for the best flavor….I love using Primal Kitchen Mayo.

Celery: Adds a crunchy texture and a fresh flavor. Dice the celery fine so it blends in with the salad.

Apples: Juice red apples adds the perfect crunch, juicy textures and a touch of sweet to this savory salad. Dice the apples fine to match the size of the celery.

Dried Cranberries: Adding the perfect amount of sweet to your chicken salad. I also love to chopping the dried cranberries to blend into the salad better.

Salt + Pepper: Season to taste after mixing all the ingredients together.

Fresh Herbs: I love finishing this chicken salad recipe with a sprinkle of fresh dill but you can also add parsley or chives flavor and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Shred the chicken: remove the skin and the bones from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat (using both white and dark meat) with a fork or your hands. Place in a large mixing bowl.

Combine: add the celery, apples, cranberries, mayo and mix until fully combined.

Season: Season with salt and pepper and fresh herbs to your liking.

Chill: Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips to Make the Best Chicken Salad

Serving Ideas: Serve on a fresh croissant, sandwich bread, in a lettuce cup or with crackers or fresh cut veggies. Also delicious served in a pita pocket for a tortilla wrap.

Make Extra: You can do a single recipe or even a double. This recipe will be so loved and will be enjoyed so quickly. I love to always have chicken salad in my refrigerator for quick lunch, protein packed snack or last minute entertaining.

Make-Ahead: chicken salad is quick and easy but it is even better after chilling for a few hours or even the next day.

Do Not Freeze: Mayo based salads do not freeze well so just make it as your need it and enjoy within a few days.

More Recipes You Will Love

Thank you for visiting Joy + Oliver. If you tried this recipe, please leave a 5 Star Review in the recipe card and save all your favorite recipes to Pinterest!

Please visit us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more of our favorite recipes that you will love!

Print

Classic Rotisserie Chicken Salad Recipe

Quick, fresh and full of flavor, this Classic Rotisserie Chicken Salad is the perfect go-to recipe for weekday lunches, summer picnics or easy entertaining. Made with store-bought rotisserie chicken, fresh apples, celery and sweet dried cranberries, this salad comes together in minutes and tastes even better the next day!

Course Appetizer, lunch, Recipe, Salad, sandwiches

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 6 Servings

Calories 389kcal

Author Kristen Massad

Ingredients

• 3 Cups Shredded Rotisserie Chicken
• ½ Cup Mayonnaise Primal Kitchen Mayo is my fave!
• 1 Cup Honey Crisp Apples Finely Diced
• 1 Cup Celery Finely Diced
• ½ Cup Dried Cranberries Chopped
• ½ Teaspoon Salt
• ¼ Teaspoon Ground Pepper
• Garnish: Fresh Dill

Instructions

• Remove the skin and bones from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat (both dark and white meat) using a fork or your hands and place in a large mixing bowl.
• Add the finely diced celery, finely diced apples and chopped dried cranberries to the shredded chicken and mix to combine.
• Add the mayonnaise and mix until the chicken salad is creamy and fully coated.
• Season the chicken salad with salt and pepper, mix until combined and then sprinkle the top of the chicken salad with fresh dill for garnish.
• Chill the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 389kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 121mg | Sodium: 737mg | Potassium: 76mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 99IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 0.1mg

There is nothing better than ooey, gooey s'mores on a warm summer night, but make them even better and easier when turned into a delicious and festive s'mores dip. This Easy Red, White and Blue S'mores Dip is the perfect patriotic twist to a classic treat, layered with melted chocolate, colorful marshmallows and graham crackers to dip. It is the ultimate dessert for a crowd on the Fourth of July, Memorial Day or any other summer gathering.

Ingredient Notes

Semi Sweet Chocolate: The base of your dip-semi sweet chocolate bars or chips add a rich and classic flavor to this dip.

Marshmallows: Make it festive with red, white and blue marshmallows or keep it classic with plain white marshmallows. Either way these large marshmallows will melt to perfection and be the perfect sweet for this classic dessert.

Graham Crackers: Scoop up the gooey dip with your favorite graham crackers; plain, chocolate or cinnamon.

How To Make S'more Dip

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
• Layer the chocolate into a small to medium baking dish using chocolate bars
• Add marshmallows into a single layer covering the chocolate layer
• Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows have a very light golden color on the top and are puffed
• Serve warm with graham crackers or cookie of your choice

Tips and FAQS To Make The Yummies S'mores Dip

Don't Over Bake: Make sure to watch the marshmallows when they are in the oven. Light golden brown and a little puffy is all you need and it is ready!

Serve Immediately: S'mores dip is best served right out of the oven when the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows are ooey gooey!

Make it for a crowd: You can make this dessert as big or as small as you would like. This is super easy for a large crowd!

More Red White and Blue Recipes You Will Love

Thank you for visiting Joy + Oliver. If you tried this recipe, please leave a 5 Star Review in the recipe card and save all your favorite recipes to Pinterest!

Please visit us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for more of our favorite recipes that you will love!

Print

Easy Red White Blue Baked S'mores Dip

Bring the campfire indoors with this festive and simple Easy Red White Blue S'mores Dip-a sweet, shareable treat that will be a fun addition to your summer table. Made with only three ingredients, this dessert dip is perfect to bring to a party or serve at your own.

Course Chocolate, Dessert, Snacks

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 6 Servings

Calories 227kcal

Author Kristen Massad

Ingredients

• 6 Ounce Chocolate Bars or (approx. 4 bars)
• 30 Large Red, White and Blue Marshmallows
• Graham Crackers For dipping

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spray a small to medium round baking dish or cast iron skillet with non stick spray.
• Layer the chocolate bars to cover the bottom of the dish.
• Arrange the marshmallows over the chocolate to create a red, white and blue pattern.
• Bake the marshmallows and chocolate for 8-10 minutes or until the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows are light golden color and soft to the touch.
• remove the dish from the oven and serve immediately with the graham cracker dippers, while hot and the chocolate is melted and marshmallows are ooey gooey!

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 227kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 32mg | Potassium: 108mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 9IU | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 1mg

As spring roles around I am always craving fresh produce, color and bright dishes and a fun way to enjoy healthy snacks with our family. We love to entertain outdoors and a charcuterie board is the best way to feed a crowd with a variety of options for everyone!

Ingredients

Fresh Veggies-Colorful veggies such as cucumbers, endives and carrots are great options to share with a crowd and perfect for dipping.

Fresh Fruits- Grapes are always the perfect addition for cheese and meats boards, but you can always add any fruit you love.

Cured Meats- Prosciutto is a thinly sliced Italian cured ham that has a salty flavor and pairs well with all veggies and cheese.

Cheese- Soft, semi soft, semi hard and hard cheese are all the options that you can choose for a charcuterie board. I love cubed cheddar cheese and a spreadable goat cheese for spring.

Crackers- Salty and crunchy crackers are the perfect addition paired with cheese and cured meats.

Dips- Make your own or buy your favorite, but adding a seasonal dip can be the center of your beautiful snack board. This Green Goddess Dip from Trader Joes is a family favorite.

Sweets- Add a few sweet treats to your salty and savory charcuterie board, such as chocolate or a seasonal cookie. For spring or easter, flower shortbread cookies and Cadbury Chocolate Easter Eggs are a colorful and a delicious addition.

Step-by-Step Instructions

When putting together a Spring Charcuterie Board, adding a variety of color, texture, salty and sweet options are important. Know the crowd you are serving and then choose ingredients to their liking.

Pick A Board-Once you know the amount of people you are serving, choose a board that will can be filled to fit your crowd.

Gather Your Ingredients- Pick your ingredients that go along with the season. For springs I gathered fruits, veggies, a small amount of cured meats, our favorite Green Goddess Dip, some hard boiled eggs, chocolates and cookies.

Assemble- Put together your board using all your ingredients. There is not a specific way to design your board, but I always start with my dips placed in a bowl and set in the middle of the board.

Garnish & Decorate- Garnish your board with fresh herbs and decorate to go with a holiday or season that you are celebrating. For spring and Easter I chose to decorate my table with bunny garland, decorative plates to serve on and some super cute wood stacking bunnies.

FAQS and Expert Tips

Charcuterie Board Serving Size- Two ounces of meat and cheese per person is a perfect amount when serving a charcuterie board as an appetizer. If you are serving it as meal you can double to the amount of meat and cheese.

Mix Up The Textures- The best part of a charcuterie board is the options you get to choose from. Make sure to mix up the flavor and texture profile and make sure there is something for everybody.

Make It Kid Friendly- If you are entertaining a crowd with kids, make them their own charcuterie board with mild cheeses, simple meats (salami and turkey) and some basic veggies and fruit that they would love.

Related Recipes

Spring Vegetable Crudités and White Bean Dip
Spring Frittata
Heirloom Tomato Tart
Floral and Fruit Ice Cubes

Chicken Noodle Soup is everything you want in a comforting, homemade meal-easy to make, full of wholesome nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor. The addition of rotisserie chicken adds richness and makes it a breeze to prepare. This soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends and even better on a snowy winter day!

Enjoy this heartwarming bowl of soup with our very favorite Garlic Herb Dinner Rolls and I hope this recipe becomes a favorite in your household as it is in mine!

Ingredient Notes

Rotisserie Chicken-Using a store bought rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing flavor. You can also use the bones of the chicken to add depth to the broth if you choose.

Vegetables- A traditional combination of vegetables; onion, celery and carrots, create the classic base for this delicious chicken soup. You can always add extra veggies like zucchinis or peas to this classic recipe.

Broth-Whether you prefer to make homemade chicken broth or use the convenience of store bought, chicken broth adds a wonderful flavor to this soup. For a richer flavor and added nutrients, I also love doing half chicken broth and half bone broth.

Herbs- Adding aromatic herbs to the chicken soup is so important for the flavor. I love adding thyme and dill for a fresh and fragrant flavor. You can add other herbs such as rosemary or even basil.

Cheese- The flavor of parmesan cheese in this soup is perfection. If you prefer this soup to be dairy free, you can skip this ingredient.

Noodles- Any pasta or egg noodle that you love is a great addition to the soup. I prefer to boil the noodles separate and add the straight to the serving bowl and then pour the soup over the noodles. This avoids the noodles from absorbing all the broth.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or dutch oven, heat the oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery and salt and pepper and sauté for 6-8 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add the Broth
Add the chicken broth, fresh thyme and dill to the pot. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for 20-30 minutes to infuse the broth with flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Whiles the broth simmers, cook the noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles, drizzle with olive oil and set aside. Cooking the noodles separately will prevent them from soaking up too much of the broth.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Chicken
Add the shredded parmesan cheese to the broth and gently stir until combined. Add the chicken and simmer for another 10 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper if needed. Add the noodles to your individual serving bowls and then pour the soup over the noodles. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a pop of color. Serve with toasted sour dough bread and enjoy!

Tips To Make The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Bone Broth: For add nutrients and an extra depth in flavor, add bone broth combined with chicken broth. I love adding half chicken broth and the other half my favorite Kettle and Fire Mushroom Chicken Bone Broth.

Cook Noodles Separate: Always boil the noodles in a separate pot instead of in the soup to prevent them from absorbing too much broth. Add them directly to the boil and pour the soup over the noodles.

Perfect Leftovers: Chicken Noodle Soup gets better the next day so make sure to save the leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Store the noodles in a separate container .

Print

Favorite Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe (with Rotisserie Chicken)

Course lunch, Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes minutes

Total Time 45 minutes minutes

Servings 4 Servings

Author Kristen Massad

Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 Tablespoon Unsalted Butter
• 1 Small Yellow Onion Diced
• 4 Garlic Cloves Finely Chopped
• 1 Cup Carrots Diced
• 1 Cup Celery Diced
• ½ Teaspoon Salt
• ¼ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 1 Tablespoon Fresh Dill Chopped
• 2 Sprigs Fresh Thyme
• 6 Cups Chicken Broth
• ½ Cup Grated Parmeson Cheese
• 3 Cup Shredded Rotisserie Chicken
• 1 lb Noodles cooked separately
• Garnish: Fresh Herbs and Parmesan Cheese

Instructions

• Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or dutch oven, heat the oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery and salt and pepper and sauté for 6-8 minutes, until the vegetables are softened
• Add the Broth: Add the chicken broth, fresh thyme and dill to the pot. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for 20-30 minutes to infuse the broth with flavor.
• Cook the Noodles: Whiles the broth simmers, cook the noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles, drizzle with olive oil and set aside. Cooking the noodles separately will prevent them from soaking up too much of the broth.
• Add the Cheese and Chicken: Add the shredded parmesan cheese to the broth and gently stir until combined. Add the chicken and simmer for another 10 minutes.
• Serve and Enjoy: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper if needed. Add the noodles to your individual serving bowls and then pour the soup over the noodles. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a pop of color. Serve with toasted sour dough bread and enjoy!