Wallet-Friendly Dishes, 3589 Ward Road, New York, NY (2025)

05/21/2025

Easy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients (Serves 6)For the Scalloped Potatoes:
2 lbs (900g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Dish:
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping. Top with half of the sliced onions and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour half of the cream sauce over the potato layer.
Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cream sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
4. Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Serve:
Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Serve warm as a side dish or a comforting main.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce or sprinkle some fresh thyme between the layers.
You can substitute half of the cheddar with Parmesan or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.
Enjoy your Easy Scalloped Potatoes!

05/21/2025

Chicken Avocado Veggie Salad
Ingredients (Serves 4)For the Grilled Chicken:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Salad:6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
2 avocados, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
Lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Prepare the Grilled Chicken:In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture over the chicken breasts.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.

2. Make the Dressing:In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

3. Assemble the Salad:In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion (if using), and chopped cilantro.
Add the sliced grilled chicken on top.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

4. Serve:Divide the salad into 4 bowls or plates.
Garnish with lemon wedges for squeezing over the salad.

Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

NotesFor added crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds, like almonds or sunflower seeds, on top.

You can substitute the lemon dressing with a store-bought vinaigrette if preferred.
Enjoy your Chicken Avocado Veggie Salad!

05/21/2025

Instant Pot Pork Loin with Mashed Potatoes and Peas
Ingredients (Serves 4)For the Pork Loin:
2 lb (900g) pork loin roast
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp cornstarch (for gravy)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
2 lbs (900g) russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
1 cup (150g) frozen peas, thawed
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Steamed Peas:
1 cup (150g) frozen peas
1 tbsp butter
Salt, to taste

For Garnish:1/4 cup (10g) fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Instructions1. Prepare the Pork Loin in the Instant Pot:
Season the pork loin with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Sear the pork loin on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
Remove the pork and add the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey to the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
Return the pork to the pot, secure the lid, and set to high pressure for 20 minutes.

Once done, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Remove the pork and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Make the Gravy:
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry, then whisk it into the liquid in the pot.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
3. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
While the pork cooks, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
Add the heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
Stir in the thawed peas and keep warm.
4. Steam the Peas:
In a small saucepan, bring 1/2 cup (120ml) water to a boil. Add the frozen peas and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.

Drain the peas, then toss with butter and a pinch of salt.
5. Serve:
On each plate, place a scoop of mashed potatoes with peas, a portion of steamed peas, and several slices of pork loin.
Drizzle the pork with the Instant Pot gravy and garnish everything with chopped parsley or chives.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this comforting meal with a glass of white wine, like a Riesling, or a light apple cider for a cozy dining experience.

05/19/2025

🥘 Homestyle Shepherd’s (Cottage) Pie with Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
For the beef & veggie filling:

1½ lbs ground beef

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1½ tbsp flour

1 cup beef broth

1 tsp thyme

Salt & pepper to taste

2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

For the mashed potato topping:

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed

½ cup milk or cream

4 tbsp butter

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
Cook the beef filling:

In a large skillet, brown ground beef with onions. Drain excess grease.

Stir in garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire, and thyme.

Sprinkle flour over mixture and stir well.

Slowly pour in beef broth, stirring constantly until thickened.

Add mixed veggies and simmer for 5–10 mins. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the mashed potatoes:

Boil potatoes in salted water until fork tender (about 15–20 mins).

Drain and mash with butter, milk/cream, and half the shredded cheese.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Assemble the pie:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Spread beef and veggie mixture in a 9x13 baking dish.

Spoon mashed potatoes on top and spread evenly.

Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.

Bake:

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra browning (optional).

Serve with soft dinner rolls or biscuits.

05/19/2025

🥗 Creamy Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Ingredients
For the salad:

8 oz rotini or fusilli pasta

2 grilled chicken breasts, chopped

4 cups chopped romaine lettuce

½ cup crispy cooked bacon, chopped

1 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)

1 cup seasoned croutons

Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Homemade Caesar Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

2–3 anchovy filets (or 1 tsp anchovy paste)

¼ cup grated Parmesan

Salt & pepper to taste

Whisk everything until creamy and chill before using.

Instructions

Cook pasta:
Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.

Cook chicken:
Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear until golden and fully cooked. Let rest and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Assemble the salad:

In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, chopped romaine, bacon, and half of the croutons.

Pour in Caesar dressing and toss everything until well coated.

Add Parmesan if using, and season with fresh cracked black pepper.

Top and serve:
Garnish with remaining croutons and a little extra dressing or pepper just before serving.

✅ Pro Tips:

Chill before serving for best flavor.

Want extra flavor? Use grilled lemon-pepper chicken or blackened seasoning.

Makes a great meal prep!

05/19/2025

🔥 Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
🍗 Blackened Cajun Chicken
Ingredients:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

½ tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Coat chicken with oil and season with Cajun spices and garlic powder.

Sear in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through and blackened. Rest, then slice.

🍝 Creamy Cajun Pasta Sauce
Ingredients:

10 oz rigatoni or penne pasta

2 tbsp butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup chicken broth

½ cup grated Parmesan

1 tsp Cajun seasoning (more to taste)

¼ tsp smoked paprika

1 red bell pepper, diced

¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté veggies: In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté bell pepper and red onion for 3–4 minutes.

Make sauce: Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Stir in cream, broth, Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 4–5 minutes until thickened.

Combine: Add drained pasta to sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Top with sliced Cajun chicken and a sprinkle of parsley.

✅ Tips:
Add mushrooms or spinach for variety.

Swap chicken with shrimp or sausage for variation.

Use milk + cream cheese as a lighter alternative.

05/19/2025

🥪 Sloppy Joe Sandwich & Chili Cheese Fries
🔸 Sloppy Joe Sandwich
Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef

½ onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup ketchup

1 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp yellow mustard

1 tsp chili powder (optional for a kick)

1 tsp brown sugar

Salt & pepper to taste

2 soft hamburger buns

Optional: Shredded cheddar for topping

Instructions:
Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened, ~3–4 min.

Make sauce: Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire, mustard, chili powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.

Simmer: Let the mixture simmer on low for 10–15 minutes until thick.

Assemble: Toast buns lightly (optional) and spoon sloppy joe mix onto the bottom bun. Add cheddar on top if desired. Close and serve.

🔸 Chili Cheese Fries
Ingredients:
3 medium russet potatoes or 1 bag frozen fries

½ lb ground beef

1½ cups canned chili (or use leftover sloppy joe mix)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt to taste

Optional: jalapeños, green onions for topping

Instructions:

Prepare fries: Bake or fry potatoes/fries until golden and crispy. Season with salt.

Make quick chili: Brown beef and mix with canned chili or use a portion of sloppy joe mix.

Assemble: Place fries on a plate, top with hot chili, then sprinkle shredded cheese over top.

Melt: Microwave or broil just until cheese melts.

🧄 Pro Tip: For extra indulgence, spread a little garlic butter on the inside of the buns before toasting.

05/17/2025

🍝 Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
🧄 Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips

2 cups penne pasta, cooked al dente

1 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1 cup sun-dried or fire-roasted tomatoes (like the ones in the image)

1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

1/2 cup grated Parmesan

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

🍳 Instructions:

Cook Chicken:

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Sauté chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Prepare Sauce:

In the same pan, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.

Add tomatoes and stir.

Pour in cream, bring to a simmer, and mix in Parmesan cheese until melted.

Combine:

Add cooked penne and chicken into the sauce.

Stir to coat everything well and heat through.

Finish:

Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

05/17/2025

🍋 Herb-Grilled Chicken with Garlic Butter Pasta & Garden Salad
A healthy and flavorful trio — juicy grilled chicken, buttery garlic pasta, and two crisp salads for the perfect plate.

🛒 Ingredients
For the herb grilled chicken:

2 chicken breasts, cut into chunks or strips

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or parsley, basil, thyme)

Salt & black pepper to taste

For the garlic butter pasta:

8 oz spaghetti or linguine

2 tbsp butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt & black pepper

Optional: grated Parmesan and chopped parsley

For the salads:

Chopped lettuce, shredded carrots

Cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, avocado, cucumber

Lime juice or light vinaigrette for dressing

👩‍🍳 Instructions
1. Marinate the chicken:

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt & pepper.

Toss chicken and marinate for 20–30 minutes.

2. Grill the chicken:

Grill on a skillet or pan over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through (about 4–5 min per side).

3. Make the pasta:

Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.

Toss pasta in garlic butter, add olive oil, season, and top with herbs or Parmesan.

4. Prep the salads:

Toss leafy greens with shredded carrots and a squeeze of lime.

Combine tomatoes, corn, avocado, and cucumber in a small bowl with light vinaigrette.

5. Assemble the plate:

Serve chicken next to the pasta, add the two salads on the side. Drizzle leftover juices from the chicken pan over the top for extra flavor.

🌟 Pro Tips:
Add red pepper flakes to the pasta for a kick.

Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing for maximum juiciness.

Grill marks = flavor, so get that pan hot!

05/16/2025

🍁 Ultimate Holiday Comfort Plate
A delicious fall feast with roasted turkey breast, baked mac & cheese, sweet roasted veggies, fluffy cornbread, and tangy cranberry sauce.

🛒 Components
1. Herb-Crusted Roast Turkey Breast:

2 lbs boneless turkey breast

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp dried thyme

Salt & pepper

2. Baked Mac & Cheese:

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp flour

2 cups milk

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 tsp mustard powder

Salt & pepper

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes:

2 large sweet potatoes, diced

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp brown sugar

1/2 tsp cinnamon

Salt

4. Southern-Style Cornbread:

1 cup cornmeal

1 cup flour

1/4 cup sugar

1 tbsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup milk

1/4 cup oil or melted butter

1 egg

5. Cranberry Sauce (easy version):

1 cup fresh cranberries

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup water

Zest of 1 orange

👩‍🍳 Instructions1. Roast the Turkey:

Rub turkey with oil and seasonings.

Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 40–50 minutes or until internal temp hits 165°F.

Rest 10 minutes before slicing.

2. Make Mac & Cheese:

Cook pasta.

In a pan, melt butter, whisk in flour for 1 min.

Add milk and cook until thickened. Stir in cheese, mustard powder, salt & pepper.

Mix with pasta. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 min if desired.

3. Roast Sweet Potatoes:

Toss diced sweet potatoes with oil, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.

Roast at 400°F (205°C) for 25–30 min until tender and caramelized.

4. Bake Cornbread:

Mix dry ingredients, then wet, and combine.

Pour into greased pan and bake at 400°F (205°C) for 20–25 minutes.

5. Cranberry Sauce:

Simmer all ingredients in a saucepan until cranberries pop and thicken (about 10–12 min). Let cool.

🧡 Pro Tips:
Add fresh rosemary to the turkey rub for extra holiday vibes.

Use sharp cheddar and a little cream cheese in mac & cheese for extra richness.

Make everything a day ahead and reheat if serving a crowd!

05/16/2025

🥗 Grilled Chicken, Herb Potatoes & Apple Salad Bowl
A wholesome bowl loaded with lean grilled chicken, crispy roasted potatoes, crisp greens, sweet apples, and a creamy ranch drizzle.

🛒 Ingredients
For the grilled chicken:

2 chicken breasts, cubed

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp oregano

Salt & pepper to taste

For the roasted potatoes:

2 medium yellow potatoes, chopped into chunks

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp thyme

1/2 tsp rosemary or Italian herbs

Salt & black pepper

For the salad:

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 green apple, diced

2 cups romaine or mixed greens

2 tbsp ranch or yogurt-based dressing

🔥 Instructions1. Roast the potatoes:

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Toss potatoes with oil and seasonings.

Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.

2. Cook the chicken:

Toss chicken with oil and seasonings.

Grill in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes, turning to brown all sides until cooked through.

3. Build the bowl:

In a large bowl, arrange lettuce, cherry tomatoes, apple cubes, grilled chicken, and roasted potatoes.

Drizzle with ranch or dressing of your choice.

🌟 Pro Tips:
Add avocado or feta for extra creaminess.

Use Greek yogurt + lemon + garlic as a light dressing alternative.

Meal prep-friendly: make everything ahead and assemble fresh daily!

05/15/2025

🥗 Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
All the bold Caesar flavors you love, plus pasta for that extra bite. Perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner!

🛒 Ingredients

2 cups cooked rigatoni or penne (al dente & cooled)

1 large grilled or pan-seared chicken breast, diced

3 cups chopped romaine lettuce

1/3 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup seasoned croutons

Salt & pepper to taste

Optional: squeeze of lemon, anchovy paste or fresh cracked pepper for extra Caesar kick

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Cook the pasta:

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the chicken:

Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder.

Grill or pan-sear until fully cooked. Rest and dice into bite-sized pieces.

Assemble the salad:

In a large bowl, toss together the lettuce, pasta, and chicken.

Add Caesar dressing and mix until evenly coated.

Finish it off:

Top with croutons, grated Parmesan, and extra black pepper.

Serve chilled or room temp.

Great for meal prep or packed lunches too!

🌟 Pro Tips:

Use homemade Caesar dressing with garlic, Dijon, and lemon juice for extra flavor.

Add bacon bits or a soft-boiled egg for a more luxurious version.

Swap rigatoni for bowtie or rotini pasta for texture variety.

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05/15/2025

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