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Dole Whip

Look what I’ve got! Disney’s famous Dole Whip copycat recipe!  This delicious blend of frozen pineapple, vanilla ice cream, pineapple juice, and a dash of flavor enhancers recreates the Disney classic right in your kitchen!

Love all things pineapple? Try this Grilled PineapplePineapple Chicken, or these Pineapple Chicken Salad Sandwiches.

Bowl of refreshing copycat dole whip, creamy and ready for a sweet treat.

What Is Dole Whip?

As a Disney enthusiast, my trips are often highlighted by indulging in Dole® Whips, churros, and carrot cake cookie sandwiches. The treats, honestly, are my Disneyland highlight. Recognizing the challenge of frequent Disneyland visits, I’ve brought the magic home by recreating these favorites, starting with the iconic pineapple soft serve.

This pineapple-flavored soft-serve, a long-standing exclusive at Disney properties, is now accessible for homemade delight. Thanks to Disney releasing their Dole Whip recipe, I’ve added my own tweaks and helpful tips to make this delectable dessert easily in your kitchen!

QUICK TIP

Dole Whip, created in 1983 for Disneyland’s Enchanted Tiki Room, sponsored by Dole, quickly gained popularity and spread across Disney parks. By 1986, it reached Disney World Florida and is now widely available, but remains synonymous with Disney.

Blender full of frozen pineapple and other ingredients.

Ingredients In Dole Whip

  • Frozen Dole Pineapple: Key for its sweet, robust flavor. Substitute with fresh, ripe, and frozen pineapple if Dole brand is unavailable.
  • Pineapple Juice: Essential for enhancing the pineapple taste, preferably small cans 100% juice.
  • Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Offers a richer vanilla flavor than regular vanilla ice cream, which uses vanilla extract. Use your extra ice cream in these Churro Ice Cream Sandwiches.
  • Vanilla Extract: Optional, but enriches the overall flavor.
  • Pinch of Salt: Also optional, but it balances and elevates the sweetness.”

Creamy pineapple mixture in a blender, perfectly blended.

How To Make Dole Whip

It’s as easy as 1,2,3…

  1. Blend Ingredients: Combine the frozen Dole pineapple, pineapple juice, vanilla bean ice cream, and a pinch of salt in a blender. Add vanilla extract if desired.
  2. Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth, soft-serve consistency.
  3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Dole Whip immediately for the best texture, just like at Disney parks.

Bowl of homemade dole whip, fluffy and sweet, tempting the taste buds.

Tips For Success

  • Use a High-Powered Blender: This ensures smooth blending. If unavailable, blend in batches, though it might slightly alter the consistency.
  • Achieving the Swirl: Use a frosting bag with a star piping tip to create the classic Dole Whip swirl. Transfer the blend into the bag and pipe into cups or bowls.
  • Sweetness Adjustment: Modify sweetness based on the pineapple’s natural sugar. Add powdered sugar or extra ice cream if too tart, or lime juice/salt if your Dole Whip is too sweet.

More Delicious Cold Treats

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Dole Whip

5 from 4 votes
Look what I’ve got! Disney's famous Dole Whip copycat recipe!  This delicious blend of frozen pineapple, vanilla ice cream, pineapple juice, and a dash of flavor enhancers recreates the Disney classic right in your kitchen!
Bowl of refreshing copycat dole whip, creamy and ready for a sweet treat.
Print Recipe

Dole Whip

Bowl of refreshing copycat dole whip, creamy and ready for a sweet treat.
5 from 4 votes
Look what I’ve got! Disney's famous Dole Whip copycat recipe!  This delicious blend of frozen pineapple, vanilla ice cream, pineapple juice, and a dash of flavor enhancers recreates the Disney classic right in your kitchen!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword dole whip
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 2 -4 servings
Chelsea Lords
Calories 108kcal
Cost $4.38

Ingredients

  • 2 cups ripe pineapple, frozen (See Note 1)
  • 1/2 cup 100% pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup vanilla bean ice cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/16 teaspoon (tiny pinch) salt

Instructions

  • The fresher (and riper) your pineapple, the better this copycat Dole Whip tastes. I like cutting up a fresh, ripe pineapple and freezing it overnight for these copycat Dole Whips.
  • In a large, heavy duty blender combine the frozen pineapple, pineapple juice, vanilla bean ice cream, vanilla extract, and salt.
  • Blend until completely smooth. This takes a bit of patience because you'll need to stop and stir the blender a few times. Avoid adding extra liquid as it will water down the Whip and it won't have that soft-serve ice cream consistency.
  • OPTIONAL: Once smooth, immediately transfer the mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip and "pipe" the frozen yogurt into serving bowls or cups.
  • Enjoy immediately.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Use either Dole frozen pineapple or use a ripe fresh pineapple. Chop it into bite-sized pieces and freeze overnight.

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings | Calories: 108kcal | Carbohydrates: 24.8g | Protein: 1.1g | Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 3.6mg | Sodium: 8.3mg | Fiber: 1.4g | Sugar: 21.7g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

Edible Brownie Batter

Rich, indulgent, and fudgy Edible Brownie Batter with tons of mix-in options! This brownie batter is free of eggs and we heat treat the flour to ensure this batter is completely food-safe to eat.

Edible brownie batter in a bowl, enhanced with chunks of oreos and chocolate chips.

Edible Brownie Batter

Welcome to the second “edible dough” treat of the week! We kicked it off with this delectable Peanut Butter Cookie Dough. In that post, I shared how much you all have loved this Edible cookie dough recipe the past couple of months and that I’d share three more “edible dough” recipes this week. 

And today I’m sharing my personal favorite: Edible Brownie Batter.

I grew up eating an incredible amount of brownies (thanks to my mom, who shared so much joy with them). Honestly, my favorite part was always sneaking a few spoonfuls of batter before it went into the oven. In hindsight, it probably wasn’t the wisest choice (considering the raw flour and uncooked eggs in the batter). So..

Can You Eat Brownie Batter?

Traditional raw brownie batter is unsafe due to raw flour and eggs. However, this Edible Brownie Dough recipe is safe to eat, with no eggs and heat-treated flour. Overindulgence may lead to a stomach ache. Here’s an article that explains the problem with raw dough.

Preparation of wet and dry ingredients separately, then combined to form cohesive dough.

Ingredients In Edible Brownie Batter

  • Chocolate Chips: Provide rich chocolate flavor and texture to the dough.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds moisture, richness, and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • White Sugar and Brown Sugar: Sweeten the dough and contribute to its texture, with light brown sugar adding a subtle caramel flavor.
  • Flour (Heat Treated): Serves as the primary dry ingredient, providing structure to the dough after heat treatment.
  • Dutch-Process Cocoa Powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds a deep color to the dough.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess and moisture, making the dough smoother.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a nice vanilla smell and taste.

Flour spread on a baking sheet being heat-treated in an oven, a crucial step to ensure the dough is safe to consume raw.

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Edible Brownie Batter

5 from 5 votes
Rich, indulgent, and fudgy Edible Brownie Batter with tons of mix-in options! This brownie batter is free of eggs and we heat treat the flour to ensure this batter is completely food-safe to eat.
Edible brownie batter in a bowl, enhanced with chunks of oreos and chocolate chips.
Print Recipe

Edible Brownie Batter

Edible brownie batter in a bowl, enhanced with chunks of oreos and chocolate chips.
5 from 5 votes
Rich, indulgent, and fudgy Edible Brownie Batter with tons of mix-in options! This brownie batter is free of eggs and we heat treat the flour to ensure this batter is completely food-safe to eat.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword edible brownie batter
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Chelsea Lords
Calories 590kcal
Cost $5.42

Ingredients

  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 cup white all-purpose flour (heat treated -- See Note 1)
  • 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder (See Note 2)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2/3 cup milk chocolate chips
  • Optional add-in suggestions: coarsely chopped chocolate or chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, coarsely chopped Oreos, swirl of peanut butter, coarsely chopped mini Reese's cups, chocolate peanut butter chips, swirl of marshmallow fluff

Instructions

  • HEAT TREAT FLOUR: You can heat treat flour in the microwave or in the oven. Test the flour to ensure it's reached a safe temperature of 165 degrees F. Let flour cool COMPLETELY to room temperature before using. Don't use any burnt or clumpy flour (if it's off-color or smells burnt, it is most likely burnt). The flour should be light, white, and fluffy (it should look the same as it did before heat treating). Spoon the cooled flour into a measuring cup and level the top of the measuring cup with the back of a table knife. (If you press and scoop flour in the measuring cup, you'll have too much.) (See note 1)
  • DRY INGREDIENTS: Once the flour has cooled, add the spooned and leveled 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a medium-size bowl. Stir to combine and set aside.
  • BUTTER AND CHOCOLATE: In another microwave-safe bowl add 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips and the 6 tablespoons butter (cut into 1 tablespoon pieces). Microwave in 30-second increments until fully melted, stirring for 15 seconds in between each increment. (This takes about 1 min 30 seconds in my microwave.)
  • WET INGREDIENTS: In a bowl with a stand mixer attached (or use a hand mixer) add the chocolate-butter mixture. Add the 1/2 cup white sugar and 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar. Beat for 2 minutes on medium speed until completely smooth. Add the 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons heavy cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla and beat until smooth and light, another 1-2 minutes.
  • COMBINE: Add the dry ingredients on top of the wet ingredients. Beat until just combined, being careful to not over-mix the batter. Scrape the sides as needed with a spatula to make sure everything is well combined. Fold the 2/3 cup chocolate chips into the batter with a spatula. If the dough is too wet (it should be a wetter brownie-batter-type consistency), add 1-2 more tablespoons of the heat-treated flour and if it is too dry, add 1-2 more tablespoons heavy cream.
  • ENJOY: Add in any desired mix-ins and enjoy! We love this dough freshly made, chilled, or even frozen! This dough does get less grainy (as the sugar dissolves more) after being frozen or chilled.

Video

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Heat treat the flour in the microwave: Add the flour to a microwave-safe bowl. I recommend heat treating more than the recipe calls for (1/2 to 1 cup extra) just to ensure you have enough. Microwave on high in bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between each burst. Take your time stirring well to make sure none of the flour burns. Use a thermometer to test the flour in a few places to make sure it has reached 165 degrees F throughout all the flour. (If you get less than 165 degrees, return the flour for one more burst of 30 seconds.) 
Heat treat it in the oven: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Line a large sheet pan (with sides) with a nonstick liner or parchment paper. Spread the flour on the pan (treat 1/2 to 1 cup more than you'll use). Bake the flour, removing and stirring it, every 1 and 1/2 minutes. Every time you remove the flour to stir, test it with the thermometer. As soon as it reaches 165 degrees F, it's safe.
Note 2: Make sure to get Dutch-process instead of natural or plain cocoa powder. The Dutching process offers a much more robust and intense chocolate flavor. Regular cocoa powder will make the brownie batter drier and less flavorful. Hershey's "Special Dark" cocoa powder is Dutch-process and found at most grocery stores.

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6servings | Calories: 590kcal | Carbohydrates: 88g | Protein: 6.2g | Fat: 26.2g | Cholesterol: 40.5mg | Sodium: 26.7mg | Fiber: 3.9g | Sugar: 66.6g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

This food-safe Peanut Butter Cookie Dough is creamy, rich, and indulgent! It’s easy to make and perfectly safe to consume  (heat-treated flour and no eggs!).

Bowl of creamy dessert accompanied by a spoon, ready for serving.

Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

For those who’ve been cautioned against eating raw cookie dough but do it regardless, this recipe is a must-try. It’s become incredibly popular on my site, quickly rising to the top recipe this past month, and many of you have tried and loved it.

Increasingly, many of you are baking from home, exploring new recipes, and relishing comfort food – just as we are. I firmly believe that a good treat can solve numerous problems. This edible cookie dough is a recipe for which you likely already have most, if not all, of the ingredients, making it an ideal dessert option when a store visit isn’t possible.

This past week, I’ve worked diligently to create not just one, but three new edible cookie dough recipes: Peanut Butter Cookie Dough, Edible Brownie Batter, and Edible Cake Batter. I hope these recipes bring you joy – they’ve certainly brightened my boys’ days!

Edible peanut butter cookie dough in a bowl, delicious and ready to be enjoyed.

Ingredients In Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

  • White Flour: Gives the dough its shape. It’s heated to kill germs so it’s safe to eat raw.
  • Butter: Makes the dough rich and creamy. It’s used at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • Peanut Butter: The main flavor of the dough.
  • White and Brown Sugar: Sweeten the dough. Brown sugar also makes it moist.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess.
  • Vanilla Extract: For extra flavor.
  • Salt & Baking Soda: Salt boosts flavor, and baking soda is for a cookie dough taste.

How to heat-treat flour on a baking sheet to ensure it's safe for no-bake recipes.

How To Make Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

  1. Heat Flour: Heat treat the flour to kill germs and let it cool.
  2. Dry Mix: Combine cooled flour with salt and baking soda.
  3. Wet Mix: Cream together butter and peanut butter, then add white and brown sugars, heavy cream, and vanilla.
  4. Combine: Mix dry and wet ingredients together.
  5. Extras: Stir in optional ingredients like chocolate chips.
  6. Enjoy: Eat the dough fresh, chilled, or frozen.

Butter and peanut butter being creamed, sugars added, followed by dry ingredients combined for a peanut butter cookie dough recipe.

Heat Treating Flour

Heat treating flour is essential for safe edible cookie dough, as raw flour can contain harmful germs like e. coli. There are three methods:

  1. Buy Pre-Treated Flour: Look for flour labeled as heat-treated. Read more about it here.
  2. Microwave Method: Place extra flour in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until it reaches 165°F. Be careful to avoid burning.
  3. Oven Method: Spread extra flour on a lined baking sheet and bake at 300°F. Stir and check the temperature every 1 and 1/2 minutes until it reaches 165°F.

Three bowls of edible cookie dough in different flavors: classic chocolate chip, s'mores, and peanut butter cup.

VARIATIONS

Personalize this Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

  • Basic Version: Start with the plain base recipe.
  • Peanut Lovers’ Version: Add chopped Reese’s Pieces® and Reese’s minis to the base.
  • Fluffernutter Version: Mix marshmallow fluff, mini chocolate chips, and chopped Nutter Butter® cookies into the base.
  • Other Mix-ins: Try milk, dark, or white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, M&Ms, chopped Oreos®, brownie bits, or cheesecake bites.

Ready-to-eat reese's peanut butter cookie dough, rich and creamy, presented in a bowl.

Storage

While you can reduce the amount of each of the ingredients called for in this recipe to make a smaller batch of dough, I recommend skipping the trouble, making this recipe as is, and then dividing it into portions, and freezing. In fact, this peanut butter cookie dough is divine straight out of the freezer!

Divide the dough into portions, wrap portions tightly with plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight bag or container. Label the bag and freeze until you are ready to eat it. This way you have edible Peanut Butter Cookie Dough on hand whenever you need it! 

When wrapped and stored correctly, this cookie dough will stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months

More Peanut Butter Treats:

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Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

5 from 6 votes
This food-safe (edible) Peanut Butter Cookie Dough is creamy, rich, and indulgent tasting! It's easy to make and perfectly safe to consume (heat-treated flour and no eggs!).
Print Recipe

Peanut Butter Cookie Dough

5 from 6 votes
This food-safe (edible) Peanut Butter Cookie Dough is creamy, rich, and indulgent tasting! It's easy to make and perfectly safe to consume (heat-treated flour and no eggs!).
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword peanut butter cookie dough
Prep Time 25 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Chelsea Lords
Calories 437kcal
Cost $3.26

Ingredients

  • 1 and 1/4 cups white flour
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt AND baking soda
  • Optional add-in suggestions: coarsely chopped chocolate or chocolate chips, chopped mini Reeses, coarsely chopped Reese's pieces, coarsely chopped Nutter Butters, swirl of marshmallow fluff

Instructions

  • HEAT TREAT FLOUR: You can heat treat flour in the microwave or in the oven. Test the flour to ensure it's reached a safe temperature of 165 degrees F. Let flour cool COMPLETELY to room temperature before using. Don't use any burnt or clumpy flour (if it's off-color or smells burnt, it is burnt). The flour should be light, white, and fluffy. Spoon the cooled flour into a measuring cup and level the top of the measuring cup with the back of a table knife. (See note 1.)
  • DRY INGREDIENTS: Add the spooned and leveled 1 and 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda to a medium-size bowl and stir. (While we aren't baking this dough, the baking soda gives it an authentic cookie dough flavor; leave it out if desired, just don't forget the salt!)
  • WET INGREDIENTS: In a large bowl with a stand mixer (or use a hand mixer), add beat 8 tablespoons room temperature (not melted) butter and 3/4 cup peanut butter. Beat until very smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the 1/4 cup white sugar and 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons brown sugar and beat to combine. Beat for an additional 3-4 minutes or until mixture becomes light, smooth, and fluffy. Add the 2 tablespoons heavy cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla and mix until combined.
  • COMBINE: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Beat until just combined; do not over-mix. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. If the dough is at all dry, add in a bit more heavy cream; if it is wet, add in a tablespoon or two more of the heat-treated flour.
  • ENJOY: Stir in any of desired mix-ins and enjoy! We love this dough freshly made, chilled, or even frozen!

Video

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Heat treat the flour in the microwave: add the flour to a microwave-safe bowl. I recommend heat treating more than the recipe calls for (1/2 to 1 cup extra) just to ensure you have enough. Microwave on high in bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between each burst. Take your time to make sure none of the flour burns or clumps. Use a thermometer to test the flour in a few places to make sure it has reached 165 degrees F throughout all the flour. (If you get less than 165 degrees, return the flour for one more burst of 30 seconds.) 
Heat treat it in the oven: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Line a large sheet pan (with sides) with a nonstick liner or parchment paper. Spread the flour on the pan (treat 1/2 to 1 cup more than you'll use). Bake the flour, removing and stirring it, every 1 and 1/2 minutes. Every time you remove the flour to stir, test it with the thermometer. As soon as it reaches 165 degrees F, it's safe. (This takes about 3-6 minutes in my oven.)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6servings | Calories: 437kcal | Carbohydrates: 31.5g | Protein: 9.5g | Fat: 33g | Cholesterol: 43.5mg | Sodium: 140.6mg | Fiber: 2.2g | Sugar: 11.8g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

Talk about a showstopper: Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is loaded with tender white chocolate-studded cake bites, a creamy vanilla filling, and fresh strawberries. It’s easy to make and assemble, and a crowd pleaser wherever you serve it.

We’re obsessed with trifles for a fun dessert; try this Brownie Trifle next!

Strawberry shortcake trifle with layers of cake, fresh strawberries, and cream.

Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

This delicious Strawberry Shortcake Trifle makes for the ultimate Easter dessert. Tender and moist bites of cake sandwiched in between a fluffy, vanilla-flavored custard and sweet sugared strawberries. It doesn’t get much better than that!

There’s nothing like traditional Strawberry Shortcake with homemade biscuits, but this trifle has quickly rivaled even a traditional shortcake for popularity in my home. 

Bowl with wet ingredients, addition of dry ingredients, mixed batter, baked cake in pan, and cake segmented into cubes.

Ingredients In Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

Cake Batter:

  • Eggs: Help the cake hold together and rise.
  • Sour cream: Makes the cake moist and rich.
  • Oil (coconut or vegetable): Keeps the cake soft and moist.
  • Vanilla extract: Adds flavor.
  • Cake Mix and Vanilla Pudding Mix: Provide the basic cake ingredients and make it extra moist and tasty.
  • White chocolate chips: Add sweet, creamy bits to the cake.
  • Buttermilk or water: Adds liquid to mix everything together; buttermilk makes it a bit tangy.

Cream Layer:

  • Whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla: Whipped together to make a sweet, fluffy cream.
  • Condensed milk and 1% milk: Make the cream layer in this strawberry shortcake trifle sweet and creamy.
  • Dry vanilla pudding mix: Helps thicken the cream and adds flavor.

Sugared Strawberries:

  • Strawberries and sugar: Sugar makes the strawberries juicy and sweeter.

Layering the cubes in dish, preparing cream filling, and layering it on.

How To Make Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

  1. Bake the Cake: Mix eggs, sour cream, oil, and vanilla. Stir in cake and pudding mixes, white chocolate chips, and buttermilk or water. Bake in a greased 9×13-inch pan until done, then let it cool and cut into cubes.
  2. Prepare Strawberries: Slice strawberries and mix with sugar. Let them sit for 30 minutes, then drain off excess liquid.
  3. Make the Cream Layer: Whip cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla together. In another bowl, mix condensed milk, 1% milk, and dry pudding mix. Fold the whipped cream into the milk mixture.
  4. Assemble the Trifle: In a trifle dish, layer cake cubes, cream, and strawberries. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used. Serve and enjoy!

QUICK TIP

 Here’s an idea that saves time AND improves this recipe! Make the cake the night before. This strawberry shortcake trifle works best with fully cooled cake and the cake gets more flavorful and moist when it sits out overnight.

Sprinkling sugar on sliced strawberries, allowing them to macerate, adding them to the trifle, and a final view of the strawberry trifle shortcake.

The completed dessert, showcasing the intricate layers.

More Fruit-Filled Dessert Recipes

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Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

5 from 3 votes
This unforgettable Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is loaded with tender white chocolate-studded cake bites, a creamy vanilla filling, and fresh strawberries. It's easy to make, simple to assemble, and a crowd pleaser wherever you serve it.
Strawberry shortcake trifle with layers of cake, fresh strawberries, and cream.
Print Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Trifle

Strawberry shortcake trifle with layers of cake, fresh strawberries, and cream.
5 from 3 votes
This unforgettable Strawberry Shortcake Trifle is loaded with tender white chocolate-studded cake bites, a creamy vanilla filling, and fresh strawberries. It's easy to make, simple to assemble, and a crowd pleaser wherever you serve it.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword strawberry shortcake trifle
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Make Ahead Cake Layer 1 day
Total Time 1 day 1 hour
Servings 10 -12 servings
Chelsea Lords
Calories 428kcal
Cost $8.54

Ingredients

Lemon OR Vanilla Cake

  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 3/4 cup melted coconut oil or canola/vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 box (15.25 Ounces) 15.25 ounces Super Moist Lemon or French Vanilla Cake Mix (Betty Crocker makes this; I use the lemon cake for this trifle)
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix (not sugar free) (dry -- do not prepare)
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips chopped
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (or you can use warm water)

Cream Layer

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla paste (or pure vanilla extract)
  • 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup 1% milk skim is okay, do not use whole or 2%
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding (dry -- do not prepare to package directions)

Sugared Strawberries

  • 2 pounds fresh strawberries
  • 1/2 cup sugar (reduce if strawberries are already pretty sweet)
  • Optional: fresh mint for garnish

Instructions

  • CAKE: Line a 9x13-inch metal pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. Parchment paper is important for easy removal of the cake. Lightly coat the parchment paper with nonstick spray. If you aren't using parchment paper, grease the pan with nonstick spray. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, whisk 3 eggs with a fork. Add in the 3/4 cup sour cream, 3/4 cup oil, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Stir until completely combined. Add in the cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, and coarsely chopped 1 cup white chocolate chips. Stir well. Add in the 1/2 cup buttermilk (or water) and mix until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to package directions for a 9x13-inch pan. Test that the cake is finished by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out dry or with moist crumbs, the cake is finished. Allow cake to cool in the pan, preferably overnight. (Cover the cooled cake with plastic wrap and let it sit out overnight.) Once ready to use the trifle, cut the cake into 1-inch cubes and use a metal spatula to remove cubes from the pan.
  • STRAWBERRIES: Remove the tops and stems of the strawberries, slice thinly, and add to a large bowl. Top with the 1/2 cup sugar (less if you're using sweet strawberries) and stir gently to combine. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes, tossing at least once or twice more. Drain off any accumulated liquid before adding the strawberries to the trifle.
  • CREAM: Add the 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla (paste or extract) to a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Whisk on low speed to combine. Gradually increase to high speed until medium-to-stiff peaks form, about 2-4 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid over-beating. In a separate large bowl, mix together the 1 can sweetened condensed milk and 1/2 cup of 1% milk. With a hand mixer, mix in the pudding mix until combined. With a spatula, gently fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk and pudding mixture. Fold until smooth and combined.
  • ASSEMBLE: Place about 1/3 of cake pieces in the bottom of the trifle dish. Cover with 1/3 of the cream and then 1 layer of 1/3 of the strawberries. Repeat the layers: cake, cream, strawberries. Repeat the layers one last time: cake, cream, strawberries. Serve immediately. If desired garnish with fresh mint.

Recipe Notes

I recommend serving the trifle right after it's been assembled. Here's how to make the components of the trifle ahead of time:
  • Wash the strawberries a few hours or up to a day in advance. Dry thoroughly and then store in the fridge. An hour before serving, add in the sugar and let the strawberries stand at room temperature.
  • Prepare the cake up to two days in advance. Cut into 1-inch pieces and store in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to use.
  • Prepare the cream filling a few hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. It does thicken a lot as it sits; this is totally fine, and it will taste the same!
  • With all the components prepared ahead of time, assembly goes quickly -- especially if you can grab a couple helpers as you're putting it together!

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 12servings | Calories: 428kcal | Carbohydrates: 44.9g | Protein: 5.6g | Fat: 25.6g | Cholesterol: 67.5mg | Sodium: 305.8mg | Fiber: 1.6g | Sugar: 40.9g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

 

Chicken Taco Salad

This healthy Chicken Taco Salad is loaded with seasoned ground chicken, black beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, Cheddar cheese, and avocado. Top it off with a drizzle of easy homemade cilantro-lime vinaigrette.

Try these Baked Chicken TacosChipotle Chicken Tacos, and these Chicken Tinga Tacos

Chicken Taco Salad bursting with colorful, nutritious ingredients.

Easy Chicken Taco Salad

As the weather warms up, there is nothing I crave more than a big hearty salad (followed by Strawberry Shortcake, of course). Chicken Taco Salad is loaded up with veggies, a simple ground chicken mixture, and the best cilantro vinaigrette. It’s similar to my Turkey Taco Salad, but with a vinaigrette instead of a creamy dressing.

It’s packed with nutritious ingredients and so many amazing textures and flavors. 

Garlic and onions sautéing, meat being added and mixed with seasonings.

Ingredients In Taco Salad With Chicken

Salad

  • Olive Oil: Used to cook the ground chicken.
  • Ground Chicken: The main protein in the salad.
  • Red Onion & Garlic: Provide savory, aromatic flavor.
  • Taco Seasoning: Adds classic taco flavor with spices.
  • Romaine Lettuce: The base of the salad, providing freshness and crunch.
  • Black Beans: Add protein, fiber, and a creamy texture.
  • Fresh Corn: Adds sweetness and a crisp texture.
  • Avocado: Adds creaminess and a buttery flavor.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Provide juicy, sweet bursts of flavor.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharpness and richness in this chicken taco salad.

Dressing

The dressing combines cilantro, lime, jalapeño, olive oil, rice wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Dress the salad just before serving, and store the dressing separately to maintain freshness.

Chopped lettuce with various toppings added, alongside blended dressing being poured over the salad.

How To Make Chicken Taco Salad

  • Make the dressing. Start by prepping the dressing so the flavors can meld and it can chill before adding it to the salad.
  • Cook the chicken. Saute the ground chicken in a little olive oil with onions and garlic. Once the chicken is cooked through, add taco seasoning to the meat.
  • Assemble the salad. Chop the lettuce and other veggies and toss them in a large bowl.

[quicktipIf you prefer, you can swap out ground turkey or ground beef for the chicken in this recipe. It will taste a bit heartier, but otherwise, it’s pretty much the same.[/quicktip]

Fully assembled chicken taco salad, dressed and ready for consumption.

Tips For The Best Salad

  • Slice lettuce thinly for better dressing coverage and easier eating in your chicken taco salad. 
  • Thoroughly dry washed lettuce to avoid a soggy chicken taco salad. Read more about how to prep your lettuce here.
  • Ensure ripe avocados for creaminess; gently press to check ripeness.

Finished wholesome meal, nutritious and ready to satisfy.

STORAGE

Leftovers: Dress the chicken taco salad just before eating to avoid soggy lettuce. Store dressing and salad separately. Keep avocado separate to prevent browning.

Make Ahead: Prepare salad components in advance. Store dressing in the fridge; shake well before using. If the dressing solidifies, let it warm up for 20-30 minutes before shaking to remix.

More Salad Recipes

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Chicken Taco Salad

5 from 6 votes
This healthy Chicken Taco Salad is loaded with seasoned ground chicken, black beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, Cheddar cheese, and avocado. Top it off with a drizzle of easy homemade cilantro-lime vinaigrette.
Finished wholesome meal, nutritious and ready to satisfy.
Print Recipe

Chicken Taco Salad

Finished wholesome meal, nutritious and ready to satisfy.
5 from 6 votes
This healthy Chicken Taco Salad is loaded with seasoned ground chicken, black beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, Cheddar cheese, and avocado. Top it off with a drizzle of easy homemade cilantro-lime vinaigrette.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, Mexican
Keyword Chicken Taco Salad
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Chelsea Lords
Calories 623kcal

Ingredients

Dressing

  • 2 cups cilantro twist and rip off the top half of the bunch of cilantro to loosely measure (stems are fine)
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 and 1/2 tablespoons diced jalapeño seeds and ribs removed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons white sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Salad

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 red onion, separated (See Note 2)
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (1 and 1/2 teaspoons)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (See Note 3)
  • 8 cups romaine lettuce, thinly sliced (3 heads of lettuce)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained & rinsed
  • 1 cup fresh corn, cut off the cob (~2 ears of corn)
  • 1 large avocado, (or 2 small-medium ones) thinly sliced or diced
  • 1 and 1/4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • Optional: additional limes and cilantro for topping salad

Instructions

  • DRESSING: Combine all the dressing ingredients except for the olive oil in a blender or food processor. Add salt and pepper to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper). Pulse until ingredients are combined and then drizzle in olive oil, quickly pulsing until emulsified. Don't over-mix/pulse/blend the olive oil or it can create a metallic flavor. Taste and adjust any seasonings to personal preference.
  • GROUND CHICKEN: Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large cast-iron skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add in 1 cup finely diced red onion and 1 and 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic. Stir often, cooking until tender, about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat if it starts to burn. Add in the ground chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes or until white and cooked through. Add in the packet of taco seasoning and reduce the heat to low. Stir to coat and season to taste with salt (it will vary depending on the taco seasoning used). Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
  • LETTUCE: Wash and chop the lettuce. Cut into ribbons and halve the ribbons -- thinner salad pieces allow for more surface area that the dressing can adhere to. Use a salad spinner to ensure the lettuce is 100% dry before adding any other ingredients.
  • VEGGIES: Thinly slice the other quarter of the red onion to get about 1/4 cup (See Note 2), drain and rinse black beans, prepare the corn (See Note 4), halve the cherry tomatoes, chop or thinly slice the avocado(s), and grate the cheese. Add to the salad.
  • ENJOY: If serving the salad immediately, pour the dressing over (add to desired preference; you may not want to use all the dressing), toss the salad, and enjoy! Add additional lime wedges and cilantro to individual plates.
  • STORAGE: Once dressed, Chicken Taco Salad doesn’t store well-- the dressing makes the lettuce soggy. I’d recommend only dressing what you will enjoy the same day. Store dressing and salad separately. You’ll also want to store the avocado separately as well since it has a tendency to brown and change texture.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Dressing: If you don't like a lot of dressing, halve the dressing recipe. Any leftover dressing stays good for up to 1 week in the fridge and is delicious over salads, roasted or raw veggies, etc.
Note 2: Onion: The red onion is used twice; cut it in half and dice up half of it to use with the ground chicken. Cut up the other 1/4th of the onion (or all the rest of it if desired) into thin strips. 
Note 3: Taco seasoning: Either use 1 packet taco seasoning (I use McCormick®) or make your own by mixing together the following spices: 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and 1/2 tablespoon beef bouillon powder.
Note 4: Corn: Thaw and then sauté frozen corn in a skillet, or grill fresh corn. To grill fresh corn: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat, around 400 degrees F. Once hot, clean the grill grates. Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Pour about 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil on each corn cob and rub that oil onto all the sides. Very lightly sprinkle salt and pepper on all sides of the corn. Place corn on grill grates (nothing needs to go down first--don't wrap in foil) and close grill. Let the corn cook (temps remaining at 400 degrees F) for about 3 minutes per side, undisturbed. Using tongs, rotate and continue cooking, for about 12 minutes total. When all sides are browned, remove from the grill onto a plate. Cut the kernels off the cob once cool.

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings | Calories: 623kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 33.9g | Fat: 38.6g | Cholesterol: 112.7mg | Sodium: 757.7mg | Fiber: 14.1g | Sugar: 9.4g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

These gluten-free Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are ultra chewy and loaded with flavor. They’re packed with oats, nut butter, and dark chocolate–plus they’re made with better-for-you, wholesome ingredients — perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast on a busy morning.

Warm, chewy soft-baked oatmeal breakfast bars, cut into squares and ready to be eaten.

A delicious on-the-go breakfast

We love Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars–they’re our favorites for grab-and-go breakfast or snacks. They’ve got great ingredients, and are filling, tender, soft, and ultra chewy. These bars taste like a mash-up of soft granola bars and a bowl of oatmeal; you’ll get wholesome-tasting, surprisingly-filling oat-filled bars.

Thanks to the nut butter and plenty of oats, these bars have substantial protein and fiber,  and that helps your body feel fuller for longer.

How to make Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

These bars are one of the easiest recipes ever. They’re made in one bowl and can be whipped together in minutes. 

  1. Combine all the ingredients (except the dark chocolate) in a large bowl and mix to combine.
  2. Coarsely chop the dark chocolate (we want some in every bite!) and add to the batter.
  3. Mix the batter and then transfer to a lined 8×8-inch pan.
  4. Bake until lightly browned at the edges and firm in the center.

Combining all the ingredients in a bowl, mixing them together, and transferring the mixture to a baking pan.

Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bar ingredients

  • Old-fashioned oats: The oats make up the base of these bars and give them that soft chewiness. Make sure to use old-fashioned oats — quick oats are too processed and will make the bars overly dry; steel-cut oats won’t soften enough.
  • Oat flour: No need to buy specialty flour. Oat flour can be made with quick or old-fashioned oats; read more on this below.
  • Cinnamon: This spice adds a really nice complementary flavor to the oats, but it’s completely optional. If you aren’t a cinnamon fan, leave it out!
  • Salt: Salt helps balance all the flavors in these Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars.
  • Peanut butter: Peanut butter contributes structure and stability (as well as protein). 
  • Coconut oil: The coconut oil gives the bars a nice flavor and moistness.
  • Honey: We sweeten these primarily with honey, and natural sweeteners are always a great choice.
  • Light brown sugar: We’ve also got a little brown sugar in there; we found the bars needed a little more sweetness, and were too wet with 100% honey, so we added 1/3 cup. 
  • Vanilla extract: This ingredient contributes to a nice subtle flavor.
  • Egg + egg yolk: The egg provides stability to the batter and adds flavor and protein. The second egg yolk adds additional structure and flavor. Use the leftover egg whites in this egg wrap!
  • Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate has antioxidants in it, among other benefits. If you aren’t a fan of dark chocolate, you can use milk or semi-sweet chocolate, but it will make the bars a bit less healthy. Alternatively, chopped nuts can be added instead (or in addition).

How to make oat “flour”

If you have quick oats or old-fashioned oats, you can have oat flour ready for in flash.

  1. Place the oats (old-fashioned or quick oats–not instant or steel-cut ones) into the bowl of a food processor or a small blender jar.
  2. Pulse the oats until ground into a powder-like consistency that resembles regular flour.
  3. Stir the oats around if needed, to be sure all the oats are finely ground. 
  4. Make sure to measure your oat flour after it’s been turned into flour.

Soft baked oatmeal breakfast bars with one bar tilted up to reveal the flavorful inside.

Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bar tips

  • Line the pan with parchment paper and leave an overhang for easy removal.  Sticky batter like this will be nearly impossible to remove without the parchment paper. If you don’t have parchment paper, I recommend thoroughly greasing the pan.
  • Let the bars cool. You may be tempted to eat one straight out of the oven (and hey — you do you!), but these bars are crumbly and a bit gooey while hot. They thicken up a lot as they cool and become easier to cut and serve.
  • Don’t overbake. Remove the bars when they are slightly browned on the edges;  the middle and top of the bars may look a bit wet or gooey, but as long as the bars don’t jiggle when slightly shaken in the pan, they’re done. Overbaked bars won’t be very soft or chewy and will also lack flavor.

QUICK TIP

Make sure the ingredients are gluten free. If you are gluten intolerant, make sure to check all the individual products to be sure they are indeed gluten free. Pay particular attention to see that they are processed in a facility that doesn’t have gluten; this will be indicated on the label. While these bars are naturally gluten free, some products aren’t processed in a strictly gluten-free environment.

Storage

Store Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’re best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making. Feel free to warm individual bars for 5-10 seconds in the microwave if you like them warm.

To freeze: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place in an airtight freezer-safe container. Thaw individual bars at room temperature, and if desired, warm through for 5-10 seconds in the microwave.

More healthy breakfast recipes

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Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

4.70 from 52 votes
These gluten-free Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are ultra chewy and loaded with flavor. They’re packed with oats, nut butter, and dark chocolate, and are made with better-for-you, wholesome ingredients. They're perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast on a busy morning.
Warm, chewy soft-baked oatmeal breakfast bars, cut into squares and ready to be eaten.
Print Recipe

Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Warm, chewy soft-baked oatmeal breakfast bars, cut into squares and ready to be eaten.
4.70 from 52 votes
These gluten-free Soft-Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are ultra chewy and loaded with flavor. They’re packed with oats, nut butter, and dark chocolate, and are made with better-for-you, wholesome ingredients. They're perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast on a busy morning.
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword Soft Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 12 bars
Chelsea Lords
Calories 211kcal
Cost $5.64

Ingredients

  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1/3 cup oat flour (finely ground oats)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 large full egg
  • 1 large egg yolk (save the whites for another recipe or discard them)
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, coarsely chopped

Instructions

  • PREP: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang (These will be nearly impossible to get out otherwise).
  • OAT FLOUR: To make oat flour, place old-fashioned or quick oats in a blender and pulse until they resemble flour. Measure after blending to make sure you have the right amount.
  • BARS: Combine the ingredients except for the dark chocolate chips in a large bowl and stir until smooth and well combined. Coarsely chop the dark chocolate chips and add to the batter. Stir to combine. Transfer batter to prepared pan.
  • BAKE: Bake for 23-26 minutes or until set at the edges (it will look slightly wet in the center, but as long as it doesn't jiggle it's done. The bars will firm up as they cool; be careful to not over bake).
  • STORAGE: Store these bars in an airtight bag or container at room temperature. These bars are best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making.
  • FREEZE: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight freezer-safe container. Thaw bars at room temperature.

Recipe Notes

Note 1:Gluten-free: These bars are naturally gluten free, but make sure all the products you use aren't processed in an environment with other gluten products. This will be indicated on the label.

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 12bars | Calories: 211kcal | Carbohydrates: 25.1g | Protein: 4.1g | Fat: 10.8g | Cholesterol: 23.3mg | Sodium: 41.5mg | Fiber: 1.6g | Sugar: 16.6g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

Chicken Pasta Salad

 Chicken Pasta Salad combines baby spinach, miniature bowtie pasta, rotisserie chicken, cherry tomatoes, and toasted almonds to make a satiating and hearty salad. Drizzle with a fresh and lively citrus vinaigrette.

Overhead image of the Chicken Pasta Salad

Chicken Pasta Salad

Big, filling salads are one of our favorite things to eat in the summer — a loaded-up Pasta Salad, Quinoa Salad, Chickpea Salad — you name it! If we don’t have to turn on the stove or oven and can have a hearty and flavorful salad alongside some kind of protein we’ve just pulled off the grill — that’s what summer eating is all about at my home!

And when there’s already grilled chicken in the salad, there’s no need to overcomplicate things! This Chicken Pasta Salad is satiating while tasting fresh and light. It can make a great stand-alone light lunch or a good filling side for dinner. If you’d like it to be a lighter side-dish, leave out the chicken and for more staying power, add in some extra chicken!

Process shots-- images of the bowtie pasta being cooked and drained, the spinach being chopped, and the chicken, tomatoes, almonds, and feta cheese being added

Pasta Salad Tips

  • Make sure the pasta is well-salted as it cooks since salting is the only chance you have to season the actual pasta. As a rule of thumb, I add 1 teaspoon salt to 4 cups of water, or about 1 tablespoon of salt when cooking the bowtie noodles for this salad.
  • Get a small textured pasta. Choose a pasta that has plenty of nooks and crannies to hold the delicious citrus vinaigrette. If you can’t find mini bowtie/farfalle, I recommend miniature shells, rotini, or fusilli.
  • Cook the pasta to al dente. Since the pasta sits in dressing, it will get soggy if it has been overcooked. On the flip side, pasta becomes a little firmer when served cold, so don’t under-cook it! I cook it according to the package directions of what al dente is.
  • Make the dressing in advance. This dressing benefits from being made in advance and chilling in the fridge, so the flavors meld together and intensify. Plus it tastes better chilled.
  • Swap the dressing. If you aren’t sure about a citrus/fruit-y vinaigrette with this chicken pasta salad, I’d recommend a balsamic dressing (like the dressing on this Cucumber Salad) or Greek-style dressing (like the dressing on this Greek Pasta Salad)

QUICK TIP

Al dente is Italian for ‘to the tooth,’ and refers to cooking pasta just enough to retain a somewhat firm texture. You’ll know the pasta is cooked al dente when the noodle has a good chew and a slightly undercooked center. If you cut the noodle in half, you’ll see a lighter color in the middle of the pasta that isn’t fully cooked. 

Chicken Pasta Salad: Making the dressing.

Rotisserie Chicken

Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken adds protein and filling power to this salad, but if you prefer, you can leave it out. That will give you a quicker prep time and a lighter side salad. It also makes this a vegetarian salad. 

I like using rotisserie chicken for a quick prep time. And since the rotisserie chicken is deliciously seasoned, it lends more flavor to this salad.

If you aren’t purchasing a rotisserie chicken, you can make your own rotisserie chicken and use the leftover meat in this salad. Alternatively, you can use leftover Grilled Chicken or any other cooked chicken. Whatever you use, make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces. 

I’ll usually buy (or make) a rotisserie chicken and use it in one meal (like these Rotisserie Chicken Tacos or Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wraps) and set aside 1 cup of the chicken to use in this salad later in the week.

Close-up view of Chicken Pasta Salad

How To Toast Sliced Almonds

Spread the sliced almonds into an even layer in a small, dry (no need to add oil) skillet over medium heat and stir them around a bit until they are fragrant and toasted to your liking.

Watch the almonds carefully; they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in an instant! I like to remove them as soon as they begin to smell fragrant. They make the perfect crunchy topping for this Chicken Pasta Salad. Alternatively, purchase honey-roasted sliced almonds from the grocery store to use.

Variations

  • Add a creamy element. My favorite creamy element is avocado. Since avocados don’t hold up well in the salad, if you add them, add to individual plates right before serving. 
  • Replace the spinach with chopped baby kale. Read about how to prepare it in this Costco kale salad.
  • Add in some diced shallots or red onion. If you’d like a bit more sharpness or savoriness in this salad, I’d highly recommend adding some onion.
  • Replace the feta with another cheese. Either freshly shaved Parmesan cheese or creamy goat cheese would be great in this chicken pasta salad.

Up close overhead image of the Chicken Pasta Salad

Storing Chicken Pasta Salad

  • This salad doesn’t sit or store well once dressed. The dressing wilts the spinach, softens the veggies, and makes the almonds soggy. 
  • To make the salad in advance, store the toppings separately from the salad and toss everything together right before serving. 
  • Chicken Pasta Salad does not freeze or thaw well.

More pasta salads

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Chicken Pasta Salad

5 from 2 votes
This Chicken Pasta Salad combines baby spinach, miniature bowtie pasta, leftover grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and toasted almonds. This salad gets drizzled with a fresh and lively citrus vinaigrette.
Print Recipe

Chicken Pasta Salad

5 from 2 votes
This Chicken Pasta Salad combines baby spinach, miniature bowtie pasta, leftover grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and toasted almonds. This salad gets drizzled with a fresh and lively citrus vinaigrette.
Course Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Healthy
Keyword Chicken Pasta Salad
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6 as a side
Chelsea Lords
Calories 422kcal
Cost $5.21

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 cups miniature bowtie or penne pasta (measured dry)
  • 6 cups coarsely chopped baby spinach, stems removed
  • 1 cup diced cooked chicken (leftover marinated and grilled chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds

Dressing

  • 2 mandarin oranges (2 tbsp (32g) orange juice; 1 teaspoon zest)
  • 1 large lemon (1/4 teaspoon zest; 1 tbsp juice)
  • 1-1/2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard do not use yellow mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

  • PASTA: Prepare the pasta according to package directions. (Don't cook all the pasta; only use 1-1/2 cups!) Make sure to generously salt the water (I add 1 teaspoon to every 4 cups of water), or the whole salad will taste under-seasoned. Drain pasta, rinse under cold water, let cool, and allow to dry. Add to a large bowl.
  • SALAD ADDITIONS: Add the coarsely chopped spinach to the pasta and toss to combine. Add in the chicken, tomatoes, feta, and toasted almonds (see Note 1).
  • DRESSING: combine all of the ingredients together (except for the oil) in a small blender or mini food processor. Blend until all ingredients are well incorporated. Slowly add in the oil in a steady stream and pulse until just combined. Transfer to a Mason jar and store in the fridge until ready to use. Shake vigorously before topping the salad.
  • FINISH SALAD: Only dress what will get eaten immediately (see step 5). When ready to eat, drizzle on the prepared dressing (add to preference; you may not want to add it all right away. We typically add most of it and then a bit more to moisten the salad as it settles). Gently toss salad. Adjust any seasonings (salt and pepper) to taste and serve.
  • STORAGE: This salad stores well as long as the almonds, feta cheese, and dressing aren’t mixed in. Store the salad separate from the extra toppings and add those ingredients right before serving.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: To toast almonds: Add the sliced almonds in a single layer to a completely dry skillet (don't add any oil) and place on medium-high heat. Stir the nuts every 15 seconds for about 1-3 minutes or until the color slightly darkens and they start to smell good. Watch these carefully as they can go from perfectly toasted to burned quickly!

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 422kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 476mg | Potassium: 1727mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 22646IU | Vitamin C: 93mg | Calcium: 364mg | Iron: 8mg

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

 

Lentil Soup

Thick and hearty Lentil Soup is packed with tons of good-for-you veggies and lentils! This soup is incredibly filling and truly comfort in a bowl.

Looking for more ways to use lentils? Try adding some cooked lentils to this vegetarian shepherd’s pie or these vegetarian enchiladas.

A ladle containing a scoop of lentil soup, ready to be served.

Flavorful Lentil Soup

I’ve never been happy enough with a lentil soup recipe to share it here until now. After making and eating (hi comfort food!) an embarrassing amount of batches this past week while being a little sick), I’m finally sharing what I think is the perfect Lentil Soup.

All the leftover veggies I’ve had looming from my fridge were put to good use, and, if you’re in a similar boat, this is the perfect empty-the-fridge kind of meal. It’s loaded with veggies; I’m talking carrots, onion, celery, garlic, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes– whew! I mean, it’s practically a healthy detox vegetable soup with lentils!

The lentils make this soup ridiculously filling and also load it up with protein. With just the right amount of spices and a finishing drizzle of lemon, this soup is completely crave worthy. 

The cooking of vegetables and the preparation of seasonings for the lentil soup recipe.

Ingredients In Lentil Soup

  • Olive oil: Makes the vegetables soft and adds flavor.
  • Onion, carrots, celery: These are the basic veggies that make the soup taste really good.
  • Garlic: Adds a strong and yummy taste.
  • Potatoes & sweet potatoes: Make the soup thicker and filling.
  • Lentils: Add protein and make the soup even thicker.
  • Tomato paste and spices: Make the soup taste spicy and rich.
  • Bay leaves: Give a special flavor that’s subtle but nice.
  • Lemon juice & zest: Make the soup taste fresh and zingy.
  • Parsley: Adds a fresh green taste.
  • Vegetable broth & chicken stock: They are the liquid that everything cooks in, making it actually a soup.
  • Diced & crushed tomatoes: Add a tomatoey flavor and chunks for a nice texture.

Sautéing vegetables, adding seasonings, and incorporating lentils into the recipe.

Tips For Success

  • Vary the vegetables: Use any veggies you have on hand.
  • Adjust texture: For a smoother soup, blend 2 cups and mix it back in.
  • Control thickness: Add more broth or stock if you prefer a thinner soup.
  • Skim off froth: Remove the foam that forms on top to make lentils more digestible.
  • Layer flavors: Spend time cooking the aromatics and spices for better taste.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Don’t skip parsley, lemon zest, or juice for the best flavor.
  • Cut veggies evenly: Dice everything small and uniformly for consistent cooking.

Finished meal in the pot with a wooden spoon, being stirred and ready to be served.

STORAGE

How To Store Leftovers

  • To refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. Lentil soup will keep for 4-5 days when properly stored. This soup makes a great weekly meal prep!
  • To freeze: Allow soup to cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight, freezer-safe container (leaving about an inch of room for expansion). Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw straight from the freezer on the stovetop (reheat gently) or in the microwave. You may want to add an extra splash or two of broth as it will be thicker upon thawing.

Lentil soup in a bowl topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Lentil Soup FAQs

1What Type Of Lentils Are Best For Lentil Soup?

Use dried brown or green lentils for this soup; they cook in 20-30 minutes, thicken the soup, and add a mild flavor.

Red lentils get mushy quickly, which can work but will change the texture. Avoid Puy lentils; they take too long to cook and may overcook the veggies.

2What About Canned Lentils?

I suggest dried lentils for better flavor and texture, and they’re less expensive. If using canned lentils, add one drained and rinsed can after the soup has simmered for 15 minutes, then cook for another 10-15 minutes until tender.

3Do Lentils Need To Be Soaked?

No! Lentils do not need to be soaked before using in this soup. For this recipe, we rinse them off and then they cook in the soup.

4Is Lentil Soup good for you?

Lentils are a highly nutritious food. They are rich in minerals, protein, and fiber while also being low in calories.

More Soup Recipes

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Lentil Soup

5 from 25 votes
This thick and hearty Lentil Soup is packed with good-for-you ingredients -- tons of veggies and lentils! This soup is incredibly filling and truly comfort in a bowl.
A ladle containing a scoop of lentil soup, ready to be served.
Print Recipe

Lentil Soup

A ladle containing a scoop of lentil soup, ready to be served.
5 from 25 votes
This thick and hearty Lentil Soup is packed with good-for-you ingredients -- tons of veggies and lentils! This soup is incredibly filling and truly comfort in a bowl.
Course Dinner, Main Course, Soup, Vegetarian
Cuisine American
Keyword lentil soup
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 6 servings
Chelsea Lords
Calories 257kcal
Cost $6.28

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup EACH: diced yellow onion, diced carrots (~1 small onion, ~2 medium carrots)
  • 1/2 cup diced celery (~1-2 stalks)
  • 1 heaping tablespoon minced garlic (~4 cloves)
  • 1 cup EACH: diced Yukon gold potatoes, diced sweet potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons EACH: ground cumin, Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon yellow curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon EACH ground turmeric, ground paprika, freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) fire roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) fire roasted crushed tomatoes (or use an extra can of diced)
  • 3/4 cup brown or green lentils, (rinsed in cold water)
  • 1 container (32 ounces) vegetable broth
  • 1 and 1/2 cups chicken stock (or additional vegetable broth)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice (½ to 1 medium lemon, to taste)
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped freshly flat leaf parsley
  • Serve with: freshly grated Parmesan cheese, crusty bread

Instructions

  • VEGGIES: Add the 1/4 cup olive oil to a large cast iron pot or Dutch oven and heat over medium. Once shimmering, add in the 1 cup diced yellow onion, 1 cup diced carrots (no need to peel), and 1/2 cup diced celery. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes. Add in the 1 heaping tablespoon of garlic, stir, and cook for 1 minute. Add in the 1 cup diced potatoes (gain, no need to peel) and 1 cup diced sweet potatoes (I do peel these). Stir to coat everything in the oil and cook for 3 minutes.
  • SEASONINGS: Add in the 3 tablespoons tomato paste and all the seasonings: 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon yellow curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir, toasting the seasonings and coating all the veggies. Cook for 2 minutes. Add in the undrained fire-roasted diced tomatoes and undrained fire-roasted crushed tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 more minutes, stirring frequently, to bring out all the flavors.
  • LENTILS: Rinse the lentils in cold water in a fine mesh sieve. Add the 3/4 cup lentils, the 32- ounce container of vegetable broth, and 1 and 1/2 cups chicken stock (or additional vegetable broth) into the pot. Stir in the 2 bay leaves.
  • COOK: Increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, you'll see some bubbles or froth at the top of the pot. Skim this off with a spoon and discard. Stir the soup, and then reduce the heat to medium low, so the soup is gently simmering. Partially cover the pot with a lid, leaving some room for steam to escape. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until lentils are tender (they should still hold their shape).
  • OPTIONAL (CREAMIER TEXTURE): Transfer 2 cups of the soup to a high powered blender. Securely fasten the lid and blend until smooth (watch out for steam!). Pour the blended soup back into the pot and stir. We occasionally do this, but also enjoy the texture of all the veggies -- up to you what you prefer!
  • FINISHING: Remove the pot from the heat and add in 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasonings; add additional lemon juice if desired, salt and pepper if needed, and/or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir in the 1/3 cup freshly chopped parsley.
  • SERVE: Serve while hot. Top individual bowls with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Leftovers will keep (stored properly in an airtight container) for about 4-5 days in the fridge.

Video

Recipe Notes

Tips:
  • Thin the soup. We like this soup thick and hearty, but if you'd like it thinner, add in some additional vegetable broth or stock.
  • Skim the surface of the soup. When cooking lentils, a froth will rise to the top. I like to skim this off with a spoon; this makes the lentils easier to digest. That froth forms as a result of lentils releasing gas and enzymes as they cook.
  • Take your time. This soup requires quite a few ingredients to saute and toast before it can be left alone to simmer. Take your time sauteing the aromatics, toasting the spices, and sauteing the tomatoes; these extra steps add layers of flavor.
  • Don't forget the fresh ingredients. The freshly chopped parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice truly make all the flavors in the soup sing; I wouldn't recommend leaving any of these ingredients out.
  • Finely dice or chop the veggies. In order for everything to cook in the right amount of time, we want the onion, celery, and carrot finely diced. The potatoes also need to be chopped small -- into 1/2-inch or smaller cubes. The more evenly cut the veggies are, the more evenly they'll cook (we don't want some mushy and some hard).

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6servings | Calories: 257kcal | Carbohydrates: 36.3g | Protein: 8.8g | Fat: 9.9g | Sodium: 398.1mg | Fiber: 6.3g | Sugar: 8.3g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

Lemon Berry Slush

Make Lemon Berry Slush in a matter of minutes. It’s delicious to cool down with or a fun drink to serve at a party!

Refreshing lemon berry slush in a glass with a spoon, ready to enjoy.

Lemon Berry Slush

Growing up, my sister and I were obsessed with Sonic’s® Lemon Berry slushes. We’d always time our outings or trips for happy hour to make sure we’d get one for half price. And while I’ll admit I still love the taste, they’re a bit too sugary for me to finish nowadays.

So the best thing about making your own slush is that you can perfectly control the amount of sugar and exactly what you add to your drink.

Adding ingredients to a blender, with ice being added for a second blend.

How to make a slushy drink

  • Initial blend: Combine frozen strawberries with freshly squeezed lemon juice, water, orange juice, and sugar. Blend for 20-30 seconds.
  • Add ice: Add crushed or whole ice cubes to the blender.
  • Blend again: Blend again, stopping the blender as needed to stir everything up. Blend until you reach a smooth, ice-less consistency. 
  • Enjoy: Pour into glasses and enjoy!

Adjusting the sugar

Everyone’s sweet tooth is a bit different, so keep that in mind as you make this. Increase the amount of sugar for a sweeter slush, or decrease or add slowly for a less-sweet treat. 

The type of orange juice you use will affect the amount of sugar required. I use a store-bought orange juice (we love Simply Orange®; not sponsored). This brand has quite a bit of added sugar, so it needs less added sugar than if you squeeze your own oranges. Sweetness can also vary depending on the frozen strawberries used; some are sweeter than others.

Lemon Berry Slush tools 

Lemon Berry Slush is very simple to make, but you do need a good, powerful blender (think Blendtec® or Vitamix®). Make sure to use a high-powered blender or you may need to blend ingredients in batches at a slight sacrifice to consistency.

Chilled lemon berry slush with a spoon, strawberries, and mint on the side.

Quick tips

  • Use freshly squeezed lemon for Lemon Berry Slush. If you juice a lot of citrus, I recommend a small juicer or citrus reamer — you don’t need anything special or crazy expensive. This one is inexpensive and a great investment!
  • Make sure to thoroughly blend all the ingredients; ice chunks are no good in a slush! If needed, stop the blender a few times and stir everything up with a spoon before resuming the blend.
  • Give the slush a taste test before serving and increase sugar or any other flavors as desired.

More delicious drinks

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Lemon Berry Slush

5 from 7 votes
Make Lemon Berry Slush in a matter of minutes. It's delicious to cool down with or a fun drink to serve at a party!
Refreshing lemon berry slush in a glass with a spoon, ready to enjoy.
Print Recipe

Lemon Berry Slush

Refreshing lemon berry slush in a glass with a spoon, ready to enjoy.
5 from 7 votes
Make Lemon Berry Slush in a matter of minutes. It's delicious to cool down with or a fun drink to serve at a party!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword lemon berry slush
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 beverages
Chelsea Lords
Calories 104kcal
Cost $4.31

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (275g) frozen strawberries
  • 1/2 cup (115g) prepared orange juice (See Note 1)
  • 1/2 cup (110g) water
  • 1/4 cup (54g) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup (47g) white granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (268g) ice

Instructions

  • INITIAL BLEND: Place the strawberries, orange juice, water, lemon juice, and sugar in a large high-powered blender. Blend for 15-20 seconds, or until large chunks are gone.
  • ADD ICE: Add in the ice and blend or pulse until all of the ingredients are well incorporated and no ice chunks remain. (The more crushed the ice is prior to blending, the easier it will blend and the better the end result). Blending will take a bit of patience and some stirring in between. Blend until smooth, but don't over-blend. This will result in a watery beverage.
  • ENJOY: Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Orange juice: If you use fresh-squeezed orange juice, you may need to add more sugar. I used a store-bought orange juice that had added sugars in it (I used Simply Orange® Orange Juice).

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4beverages | Calories: 104kcal | Carbohydrates: 26.9g | Protein: 0.7g | Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 2.8mg | Fiber: 2.4g | Sugar: 20.5g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

Honey Butter

Try our amazing Honey Butter: rich butter, sweet honey, hint of cinnamon, pinch of salt, and a touch of vanilla extract.

Enjoy over some fresh Honey Whole Wheat Bread, Dinner Rolls, or Pumpkin Bread.

The creamy spread in a small pot with a wooden spoon.

Homemade Honey Butter

You might think making homemade Honey Butter is complicated, but it couldn’t be easier to do. Whip everything together in a stand mixer and it can be ready in about 10 minutes or less.

It makes for such a fun and fancy accompaniment to your dinner table; especially for Easter, which is right around the corner!  Serve this homemade Honey Butter with some drop biscuits and you might not need to make much else. 

Ingredients for honey butter recipe: butter, honey, powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon.

Honey Butter Ingredients

  • Unsalted Butter: Controls saltiness; omit added salt if using salted butter.
  • Honey: Provides sweetness and flavor.
  • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and creaminess.
  • Vanilla Extract: Optional but enhances flavor.
  • Cinnamon: Adds a nice flavor; adjust to preference or try pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice for a fun flavor twist.
  • Salt: Balances & enhances flavors.

QUICK TIP

Make sure the butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing. If melted, it won’t mix well; if too cold or hard, the same applies. 

How To Make Honey Butter

  1. Combine softened butter, powdered sugar, honey, vanilla extract (if using), cinnamon, and sea salt in a stand mixer with the whisk attachment on low speed until mixed.
  2. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
  3. Serve immediately in a dish, optionally drizzle with more honey, or refrigerate for later use..

White Bean and Kale Soup

This one pot white bean and kale soup is loaded with nutritious ingredients. This vegetarian soup is hearty and packed with plant-based protein (quinoa & white beans), but you can add in some shredded, cooked chicken if desired.

Nothing compares to a big crusty loaf of bread as an accompaniment for this soup! If you’d also like a salad on the side, this Olive Garden Salad would pair nicely.

 

Overhead image of the white bean and kale soup with a spoon in it

White Bean and Kale Soup

This nutritious and hearty soup is the perfect recipe for a chilly winter night. It’s total comfort food, but won’t leave you feeling heavy and sluggish thanks to all the veggies and healthful ingredients. While it’s technically a vegetarian soup, you won’t miss the meat! Quinoa and white beans are loaded with protein which will help this soup be even more satiating.

While there’s a bit of prep up front with dicing the veggies, this white bean and kale soup comes together relatively quickly and is fairly hands-off throughout the cooking process. As long as you stir it a few times throughout, you’ll be good to go!

Below I’m sharing a few tips and ingredient notes along with some variation ideas.

Process shots-- images of the veggies being sautéed, seasonings being added, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes being added and everything being cooked

Veggie notes

  • Finely dice the veggies: You don’t want any chunks of uncooked carrot, onion, celery, or garlic, so take your time to be certain the veggies are finely and evenly diced.
  • Take time developing the flavor base. The mirepoix (carrot, onion, & celery), tomato paste, and seasonings really set up this white bean and kale soup to have a rich flavor; take your time sautéing and getting these veggies tender.
  • Short-cut: Many grocery stores sell pre-chopped mirepoix in the produce section. Use 3 cups of these already-chopped veggies in place of  your own celery, onions, and carrots.

Tomatoes

  • Good tomatoes make all the difference in this white bean and kale soup. I highly recommend San Marzano® or Muir Glen® fire-roasted crushed and diced tomatoes in this recipe.
    • Why fire-roasted tomatoes? When tomatoes are charred over a flame before being crushed (or diced) and canned, the contact with that flame brings out the tomato’s sweetness and gives a distinct smoky flavor. It’s a great way to get more flavor without any extra work.
  • Lower-quality canned tomatoes tend to be a bit more acidic; so if needed, add a teaspoon or two of sugar to counteract that.

Process shots--images of the quinoa, bay leaves, broth, beans, and kale being added and cooked over the stove top

Variations

  • Soup thickness: as the quinoa cooks through, it continues to expand and thicken the soup. As written, this is a very thick soup (stew-like), but feel free to add some additional broth if desired.
  • Additional protein: The quinoa and beans add a lot of protein, but if you’d like more, stir in some shredded rotisserie chicken near the end of cooking to warm it through.
  • Use spinach instead of kale: if you aren’t a fan of kale, add some baby spinach in instead. Add it in off the heat and gently stir; the residual heat will wilt it quickly.
  • Use chicken broth: if you aren’t a vegetarian, chicken broth (or stock) can be used in place of the vegetable broth.
  • Swap out the beans: if you don’t love white beans, use kidney beans or red beans instead.

Tips

  • Season as you go. Taste often and season the soup as you go. At the end of making this soup, be sure to taste again before serving and adjust the salt and pepper. 
  • Garnish: Freshly chopped flat leaf Italian parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes the perfect finishing touch to this white bean and kale soup.

QUICK TIP

Rinse the quinoa. If the quinoa isn’t already rinsed (it will say on the package, if it is), add it to a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water. This removes the saponin coating which can cause quinoa to taste bitter. (Saponins are bitter compounds that are naturally present in quinoa and help protect the plant from pests. Some people are sensitive to saponins, and rinsing well helps remove them from the grain.)

More soup recipes

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White Bean and Kale Soup

5 from 8 votes
This one pot white bean and kale soup is loaded with nutritious ingredients. This vegetarian soup is hearty and packed with plant-based protein (quinoa & white beans), but you can add in some shredded, cooked chicken if desired.
Print Recipe

White Bean and Kale Soup

5 from 8 votes
This one pot white bean and kale soup is loaded with nutritious ingredients. This vegetarian soup is hearty and packed with plant-based protein (quinoa & white beans), but you can add in some shredded, cooked chicken if desired.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword White Bean and Kale Soup
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Chelsea Lords
Calories 222kcal
Cost $5.35

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup EACH: diced carrots, diced onion, diced celery (~2 large carrots, 3 celery stalks, and 1 small onion)
  • 1 heaping tablespoon minced garlic (~4 cloves)
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon EACH: dried crushed rosemary, dried thyme, pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 cans (14.5 ounces EACH) fire-roasted diced tomatoes (I love San Marzano or Muir Glen)
  • 6 cups vegetable stock or broth (can use chicken broth if not vegetarian)
  • 3/4 cup white quinoa, (See Note 1)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) white cannellini or Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups (loosely packed) coarsely chopped kale
  • Finishing touches: 1 more tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  • VEGGIES: Add 3 tablespoons olive oil to a large cast iron pot. Heat to medium and once oil is hot, add the 1 cup diced carrots, 1 cup diced celery, 1 cup diced onion, and heaping 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Add a tiny pinch of salt and cook, stirring often, until veggies are tender, about 7-9 minutes. Add in the tomato paste and seasonings (dried parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, pepper, Italian seasoning, and sea salt.) Cook and stir until fragrant, about another 30 seconds.
  • SIMMER: Add both cans of undrained, fire-roasted diced tomatoes and stir for 1 minute still over medium heat. Add in the 2 bay leaves and rinsed quinoa. Stir and add in the 6 cups vegetable stock. Increase heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. (Soup should be maintaining a simmer, but not boiling). Stir occasionally.
  • FINISHING: After 15 minutes, add in the 1 can of drained and rinsed white beans and kale. Stir and cook for 3-4 more minutes or until quinoa has fully "popped" and kale is softened. Finish the soup with 1 more tablespoon olive oil and, if desired, 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove the bay leaves and serve.
  • SERVE: Garnish bowls of soup with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
  • STORAGE: Soup will continue to thicken as the quinoa expands. We still think it tastes great, but it does get thicker and thicker as it stands. This soup is best eaten within 2-3 days. It does not freeze well; the soup continues to absorb liquid and gets overly bloated.
  • SLOW COOKER INSTRUCTIONS: Follow step one and then transfer everything from that pot to a 6 quart crockpot. Add in the diced tomatoes, stock, rinsed quinoa, drained and rinsed white beans, and bay leaves. Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-5 hours or until quinoa has popped and veggies are tender. Stir in kale, olive oil, and lemon juice. Remove bay leaves. Adjust salt and pepper; serve in bowls garnished with fresh parsley and topped with Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: If the quinoa isn't already rinsed (it will say on the package, if it is), add it to a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water. This removes the saponin coating which can cause quinoa to taste bitter.

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6servings | Calories: 222kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 7.5g | Fat: 8g | Sodium: 1049.4mg | Fiber: 8.4g | Sugar: 9.2g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I love hearing from you when you've made one of my recipes! Tag me on Instagram at @ChelseasMessyApron or leave me a comment below.

Goulash

American Goulash: A hearty, comforting, and easy pasta and beef dish. Simmer beef, peppers, and onions in a tomato sauce, then toss with pasta and cheese for a savory meal ready in 40 minutes!

Pair Goulash with some veggies! These Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Roasted Broccoli, or Italian Salad all make great side dishes.

Bowl of american goulash with a spoon, ready to serve.

American Goulash

American Goulash, also known as slumgullion, is a comforting American dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and onions in a tomato-based sauce. In the Midwest, it’s often just called “goulash.” However, it should not be confused with Hungarian Goulash, which is made with stew meat and served over homemade dumplings called Nokedli.

Most American Goulash recipes cook everything in one pot, but I prefer a different approach for a few reasons. One, it’s easy to overcook the pasta, resulting in an overly starchy meal. Two, leftovers tend to become less enjoyable as the pasta absorbs too much liquid and becomes mushy. Lastly, it doesn’t save much time. In this recipe, we cook the pasta separately, which I believe yields the best Goulash.

QUICK TIP

Elbow macaroni is the traditional pasta for American Goulash. If you’d like to experiment with different pasta shapes, opt for varieties that are thick and relatively small, such as small shells, ziti, or penne – they all work well.

Making the goulash recipe: vegetables sautéing, meat cooking with veggies, seasonings and tomatoes added, mixture boiling and simmering.

Goulash Ingredients

  • Ground Beef: Ground beef provides the main protein and adds rich, savory flavor to the goulash.
  • Elbow Macaroni: The elbow macaroni absorbs the rich, zesty tomato sauce, adding a satisfying texture.
  • Veggies: The diced yellow onion and red pepper in this recipe enhance the overall flavor, adding depth.
  • Seasonings: The seasonings in this goulash recipe provide a balanced blend of savory, smoky, and mildly spicy flavors. They elevate the taste of the dish.
  • Tomato Base: The crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce provide a rich tomato flavor and create a saucy consistency. Combined, they make a delicious sauce for the pasta and beef.
  • Cheese: The Cheddar cheese adds creaminess and a cheesy flavor, enriching the taste and texture.

VARIATIONS

Recipe variations 

  • Cheese: Mix mozzarella and cheddar for a cheesier option. Lactose intolerant? Enjoy without cheese!
  • Extra Veggies: Enhance with frozen corn, carrots, or mushrooms. Add spinach at the end.
  • Beans: Transform into chili mac with chili or kidney beans.
  • Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle diced Italian parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

Mixing the cooked pasta with beef-tomato sauce, cheese being added, and the final combined dish.

How To Make American Goulash

  1. Prep: Chop onion, garlic, and red pepper.
  2. Cook Veggies: Sauté onion, red pepper, and garlic in olive oil until tender.
  3. Cook Beef: Brown beef, drain, and add spices.
  4. Tomatoes: Mix in tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves. Simmer.
  5. Macaroni: Boil and cook macaroni, then drain.
  6. Finish: Stir Cheddar cheese into the meat mixture. Add macaroni if serving immediately, or store separately for leftovers. Adjust seasonings. Enjoy!

Goulash FAQs

1What Is The Difference Between American Goulash And Hungarian Goulash?

American Goulash features ground beef, pasta, and a tomato-based sauce with various spices. Hungarian Goulash, on the other hand, uses stew meat in a paprika-infused broth, served with dumplings and lacks pasta or cheese. The key distinctions lie in meat, sauce, and seasoning choices.

2Is Hamburger Helper The Same As Goulash?

American Goulash and Hamburger Helper both contain ground beef and pasta, but they differ in taste and texture. Goulash has a tomato-based sauce with bold spices, emphasizing a tomato-forward flavor. Hamburger Helper, in contrast, is known for its creamier and cheesier nature. While they share ingredients, they have distinct flavor profiles and consistencies.

3Can You Freeze American Goulash?

The meat sauce and noodles don’t freeze and thaw together, as the noodles become mushy. To freeze, cool the meat sauce, place it in an airtight freezer-safe container, date, and label it, then freeze. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop, possibly adding extra water or tomato sauce when reheating.

4How Long Does It Take To Make Goulash?

This recipe is efficiently prepared and requires a total of 40 minutes.

Freshly cooked goulash in a skillet with a wooden spoon, ready for serving.

Goulash Recipe Tips

  • Good tomatoes make all the difference in this recipe. I recommend San Marzano® or Muir Glen® fire-roasted. Alternatively, swap tomato sauce with 15 oz Rao’s® marinara for richer flavor.
  • Grate the cheese freshly. Pre-grated cheese contains a cellulose coating to prevent clumping and does not melt as smoothly.
  • Generously salt the pasta water. While we don’t add salt directly to the Goulash due to its salty ingredients, it’s important to season the water in which the macaroni cooks. (Read about how to properly salt your pasta water here.)
  • Sauté seasonings with meat and veggies before adding tomatoes; it intensifies flavors. Don’t skip this step.
  • If you have extra time, allow the meat sauce to simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. While totally optional, it does intensify the flavors and result in a richer and deeply savory sauce.

More Ground Beef Recipes: 

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American Goulash

4.55 from 24 votes
American Goulash: A hearty, comforting, and easy pasta and beef dish. Simmer beef, peppers, and onions in a tomato sauce, then toss with pasta and cheese for a savory meal ready in 40 minutes!
Freshly cooked goulash in a skillet with a wooden spoon, ready for serving.
Print Recipe

American Goulash

Freshly cooked goulash in a skillet with a wooden spoon, ready for serving.
4.55 from 24 votes
American Goulash: A hearty, comforting, and easy pasta and beef dish. Simmer beef, peppers, and onions in a tomato sauce, then toss with pasta and cheese for a savory meal ready in 40 minutes!
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword goulash
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 6 -8 servings
Chelsea Lords
Calories 336kcal
Cost $10.38

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion (~1 onion)
  • 1 cup diced red pepper (~1 pepper)
  • 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic (~3-4 cloves)
  • 1 pound lean (93/7) ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon EACH: paprika and chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon EACH: garlic and onion powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 2 cans (14.5 ounces EACH) fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
  • 2 teaspoons beef bouillon powder
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cup freshly grated sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 3 cups uncooked macaroni

Instructions

  • PREP: Finely dice the onion and red pepper, and mince the garlic.
  • COOK VEGGIES: In a large cast-iron pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Once shimmering, add finely diced onion, red pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until tender, adjusting heat if needed. Simultaneously, bring a separate pot of water to boil on high heat.
  • COOK BEEF: Turn the heat to high and push veggies aside in the pot. Add beef to the middle of the pot, letting each side sear for 30 seconds. Crumble and cook until no pink remains, then drain excess grease. Reduce heat to medium. Mix in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, chili powder, garlic and onion powders, and season with pepper to taste. Stir until spices release their aroma, about 1-2 minutes.
  • TOMATOES: Pour in the tomato sauce, scraping the pot's bottom for any browned bits. Mix in fire-roasted crushed tomatoes. Add beef bouillon cubes, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves; stir gently. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, partially covering the pot. Simmer until fragrant and tender, ideally 30-45 minutes for a richer sauce or until pasta is cooked. While simmering, shred the cheese.
  • MACARONI: Once the water boils, season with salt (roughly 3/4 tablespoon). Add macaroni and cook as per package instructions. Drain when done.
  • FINISHING: Off the heat, mix in the Cheddar cheese until melted. If eating immediately, combine meat mixture with cooked macaroni. For leftovers, add macaroni to bowls and top with meat mixture to prevent noodles from bloating in storage. Adjust seasoning to taste, and enjoy!

Video

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 336kcal | Carbohydrates: 35.7g | Protein: 22.4g | Fat: 11.6g | Cholesterol: 50.3mg | Sodium: 271.7mg | Fiber: 3.2g | Sugar: 6.4g

We do our best to provide accurate nutritional analysis for our recipes. Our nutritional data is calculated using a third-party algorithm and may vary, based on individual cooking styles, measurements, and ingredient sizes. Please use this information for comparison purposes and consult a health professional for nutrition guidance as needed.

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