Comfort Cooking

Comfort Cooking Sharing my favorite clips of the best cook! Not intended to impersonate!

Upgrade your sheet pan dinners with these Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos. Roasted sweet potato slices topped with seasoned g...
09/21/2026

Upgrade your sheet pan dinners with these Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos. Roasted sweet potato slices topped with seasoned ground beef, black beans, and melted pepper jack cheese. Save this recipe for your next easy weeknight meal or crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Base
2 medium sweet potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds or half-moons
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp taco seasoning
Toppings
1/2 lb ground beef or turkey
1/2 packet taco seasoning
2 tbsp water
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
Instructions
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large sheet pan with aluminum foil.
Toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil and taco seasoning.
Spread evenly in a single layer across the sheet.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are golden and crisp.
2. Prepare the Meat
While the potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium heat.
Cook ground beef or turkey until browned, then drain excess fat.
Add taco seasoning and water, simmering for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
3. Assemble and Melt
Remove sweet potatoes from the oven.
Layer evenly with seasoned ground meat and black beans.
Cover with shredded cheese.
Return to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

If you're looking for the ultimate cozy weeknight dinner that feels like a restaurant luxury, this Creamy Tuscan Garlic ...
09/20/2026

If you're looking for the ultimate cozy weeknight dinner that feels like a restaurant luxury, this Creamy Tuscan Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to be an absolute hit at your table! Tender, seared chicken breasts are simmered in a velvety sun-dried tomato and spinach cream sauce that you'll want to scoop up with extra garlic bread.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut horizontally into thin cutlets
* 1 tsp Italian seasoning
* 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 1 tsp kosher salt, divided (plus extra for pasta water)
* 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, divided
* 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
* 2 tbsp unsalted butter
* 5 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), drained and chopped
* 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
* 3 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
* 10 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
* 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Season the chicken:** Pat the chicken cutlets thoroughly dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.

2. **Cook the pasta:** Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. **Sear the chicken:** Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets in a single layer and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil to keep warm, and set aside.

4. **Sauté the aromatics:** Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.

5. **Deglaze the pan:** Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

6. **Build the cream sauce:** Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Whisk gently and allow it to come to a gentle simmer for 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, then season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.

7. **Combine everything:** Stir the baby spinach into the simmering cream sauce until it just wilts, about 1–2 minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips and stir it back into the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss well to coat everything in the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

8. **Garnish and serve:** Remove the pan from the heat and let sit for 2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese before serving immediately!

Photo by Jay Moon on Pexels

If you’ve never tried roasting radishes, this easy one-pan meal will completely change your mind—they transform from pep...
09/20/2026

If you’ve never tried roasting radishes, this easy one-pan meal will completely change your mind—they transform from peppery and crisp into sweet, juicy, tender morsels right alongside golden, crispy-skinned chicken. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight, but impressive enough to serve when company comes over!

**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 40 minutes
**Servings:** 4

**Ingredients:**
* 2.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 6 thighs)
* 1 lb fresh red radishes, washed, trimmed, and halved (quartered if large)
* 1 large shallot, cut into thin wedges
* 6 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
* 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, plus 3-4 whole sprigs
* 1 lemon, zested and thinly sliced into rounds
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
* ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
* ⅓ cup dry white w**e (or low-sodium chicken broth)
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

**Instructions:**
1. **Prep the oven and chicken:** Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels—this is the secret to getting super crispy skin.
2. **Season the chicken:** In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt, and the black pepper. Rub this seasoning blend evenly all over the chicken thighs, tucking a bit under the skin where you can.
3. **Prepare the radishes:** In a large (12-inch) cast-iron skillet or rimmed baking sheet, toss the prepared radishes, shallots, and smashed garlic with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the fresh thyme leaves, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Spread everything into a single layer across the bottom.
4. **Assemble the pan:** Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs, skin-side up, directly on top of and between the radishes. Tuck the lemon slices and whole thyme sprigs into the open spaces around the chicken. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil lightly over the chicken skins.
5. **Roast:** Transfer to the oven and roast uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, until the chicken skin is deeply browned and crisp, the radishes are tender and golden at the edges, and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F.
6. **Make the pan sauce:** Carefully transfer the roasted chicken thighs to a clean plate to rest for 5 minutes. Place the hot skillet over medium heat on your stovetop (if using a baking sheet, pour the contents into a skillet). Pour in the white w**e and melted butter, scraping up all those delicious crispy browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
7. **Plate and serve:** Nestle the chicken back into the pan with the radishes, spooning some of the warm, buttery pan juices over the top. Scatter the fresh chopped parsley over everything and serve family-style right out of the skillet!

Photo by Fatih Kılıç on Pexels

If you’ve never tried caramelized fennel baked under a golden, bubbly cheese crust, this rich Parmesan Fennel Gratin is ...
09/20/2026

If you’ve never tried caramelized fennel baked under a golden, bubbly cheese crust, this rich Parmesan Fennel Gratin is about to become your new favorite cozy side dish! The natural sweetness of the roasted fennel pairs beautifully with sharp Parmigiano-Reggiano, creamy Gruyère, and a crunchy herbal breadcrumb topping.

**Prep time:** 20 minutes | **Cook time:** 40 minutes | **Servings:** 6

# # # **Ingredients**

* 3 large fresh fennel bulbs (reserve 2 tablespoons of the feathery green fronds for garnish)
* 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing the dish
* 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
* 1 cup heavy cream
* ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, roughly chopped
* ⅛ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
* 1 teaspoon kosher salt
* ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
* 1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, divided
* ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese
* ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs

# # # **Instructions**

1. **Prep the oven and dish:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously butter a 2-quart oval or rectangular baking dish and set aside.

2. **Prepare the fennel:** Trim the stalks and leafy fronds from the fennel bulbs (saving a few sprigs of fronds for later). Cut the bulbs in half vertically, trim out the tough bottom core, and slice the fennel lengthwise into ¼-inch thick slices.

3. **Sauté the vegetables:** In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onion and fennel, season with a pinch of salt, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fennel softens and starts to take on a light golden-brown color. Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking for 1 more minute until fragrant.

4. **Simmer the cream base:** Pour the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, kosher salt, and black pepper directly into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for 3 to 4 minutes until the cream slightly thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

5. **Combine with cheese:** Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in ½ cup of the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and all of the shredded Gruyère until melted into a luscious, velvety sauce. Transfer the entire vegetable and cream mixture into your prepared baking dish, pressing it down into an even layer.

6. **Mix the topping:** In a small bowl, toss together the remaining ½ cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano, the Panko breadcrumbs, and a tiny drizzle of olive oil until well combined and lightly moistened.

7. **Bake:** Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the fennel. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the sauce is furiously bubbling around the edges and the top is deeply golden brown. (If you want an extra-crispy crust, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it so it doesn't burn!)

8. **Garnish and serve:** Remove from the oven and let the gratin rest for 10 minutes so the sauce can settle. Chop the reserved fennel fronds and scatter them over the top for a fresh pop of color before serving hot.

Photo by David Gierth on Pexels

This classic Chicken Salad Veronique combines tender, gently poached chicken with juicy seedless grapes and crunchy almo...
09/20/2026

This classic Chicken Salad Veronique combines tender, gently poached chicken with juicy seedless grapes and crunchy almonds, all folded into a velvety, tarragon-infused dressing. It’s elegant enough for a weekend spring luncheon, yet simple enough to prep ahead for weekday lunches!

**INGREDIENTS**

*For the poached chicken:*
* 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
* 3 fresh thyme sprigs
* 2 wide strips fresh lemon peel
* 1 tsp kosher salt

*For the salad & dressing:*
* ½ cup mayonnaise
* ¼ cup crème fraîche (or full-fat sour cream)
* 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
* 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
* 1 ½ tbsp fresh tarragon, finely chopped
* 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely minced
* 1 cup seedless red or green grapes, halved lengthwise
* 2 medium celery stalks, finely diced
* 1 small shallot, finely minced
* ½ cup sliced almonds
* ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
* Kosher salt, to taste
* Butter lettuce leaves or warm croissants, for serving

**INSTRUCTIONS**

1. **Poach the chicken:** Place the chicken breasts in a medium saucepan in a single layer. Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme sprigs, lemon peel, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt (the liquid should cover the chicken by about an inch). Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then immediately turn the heat to low, cover, and cook for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the thickest part reaches 165°F on a meat thermometer.

2. **Cool and dice:** Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let cool completely, about 20 minutes. Once cooled, cut the chicken into neat, bite-sized ½-inch cubes.

3. **Toast the almonds:** Place the sliced almonds in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toast for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and smell nutty. Immediately transfer them to a small dish so they don't burn.

4. **Whisk the dressing:** In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, crème fraîche, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped tarragon, minced chives, black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of salt until smooth and combined.

5. **Prep the fruit and veggies:** Slice your grapes in half lengthwise, finely dice the celery, and mince the shallot.

6. **Combine the salad:** Add the cooled diced chicken, halved grapes, diced celery, and minced shallots to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together using a rubber spatula until the ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasonings with a pinch more salt if needed.

7. **Chill:** Cover the bowl with wrap and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes to let all those wonderful herbaceous flavors meld together.

8. **Assemble and serve:** Right before serving, gently fold in half of the toasted almonds. Spoon generous mounds of the chicken salad onto crisp butter lettuce leaves or pile onto split, flaky croissants. Scatter the remaining toasted almonds over the top for extra crunch, and enjoy!

Photo by Ali Dashti on Pexels

Nothing beats a steaming bowl of silky, homemade tomato soup paired with golden, crispy grilled cheese croutons floating...
09/20/2026

Nothing beats a steaming bowl of silky, homemade tomato soup paired with golden, crispy grilled cheese croutons floating right on top! This comforting classic comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the ultimate cozy weeknight meal the whole family will love.

# # # INGREDIENTS

**For the Tomato Soup:**
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (to cut acidity)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

**For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:**
- 4 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
- 2 tbsp softened butter
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

---

# # # INSTRUCTIONS

1. **Sauté the aromatics:** Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and deep brick-red.

2. **Build the soup base:** Pour in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes with their juices, broth, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, scraping up any delicious browned bits sticking to the bottom of the pot.

3. **Simmer:** Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down to low. Cover partially with a lid and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.

4. **Blend until silky:** Remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until completely smooth and velvety. *(If using a standard stand blender, let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches, keeping the top vented).*

5. **Finish the soup:** Stir in the heavy cream and fresh chopped basil. Taste the soup and add a pinch more salt or pepper if desired. Cover and keep warm on the lowest heat setting while you make the croutons.

6. **Assemble the sandwiches:** Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread. Place two slices, buttered-side down, in the pan. Divide the shredded sharp cheddar evenly over the bread, then top with the remaining bread slices, buttered-side facing up.

7. **Toast and slice:** Cook the sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Transfer to a cutting board, let cool for 1 minute, then slice into bite-sized 1-inch squares.

8. **Plate and enjoy:** Ladle the hot tomato soup into bowls, swirl in an extra splash of cream or olive oil if you like, and top with a generous handful of the warm grilled cheese croutons. Serve immediately while the croutons are perfectly crunchy!

Photo by Erik Mclean on Pexels

Juicy, slow-roasted pork loin paired with sweet caramelized fennel and garlic creates the ultimate cozy Sunday dinner th...
09/20/2026

Juicy, slow-roasted pork loin paired with sweet caramelized fennel and garlic creates the ultimate cozy Sunday dinner that smells as incredible as it tastes. Brightened with a splash of white w**e and fresh lemon zest, this effortless dish is guaranteed to become a new family favorite!

# # # Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 50 mins | Servings: 6

# # # Ingredients:
* 1 (3 to 3.5-pound) boneless pork loin roast, fat cap trimmed to 1/4-inch
* 2 large fennel bulbs, stalks removed, sliced into 1/2-inch wedges (reserve leafy fronds for garnish)
* 1 tbsp fennel seeds, lightly crushed
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
* 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
* 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
* 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
* 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
* 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
* 1/2 cup dry white w**e (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
* 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
* 1 tsp fresh lemon zest plus 1 tbsp lemon juice

# # # Instructions:

1. **Bring pork to room temp:** Take the pork loin out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to take the chill off. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. **Make the herb rub:** In a small bowl, stir together the crushed fennel seeds, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper until a thick paste forms. Rub this mixture evenly all over the pork loin, pressing it into the meat.

3. **Prep the fennel bed:** In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, toss the sliced fennel bulbs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread the fennel out into a flat layer.

4. **Sear the roast:** Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat (or move the fennel aside if using a large enough cast-iron skillet). Sear the pork loin for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden crust forms.

5. **Assemble for roasting:** Nestle the seared pork loin fat-side-up directly on top of the bed of sliced fennel. Carefully pour the white w**e and chicken broth into the bottom of the pan around the fennel, taking care not to pour it directly over the top of the pork so you don't wash off the herb crust.

6. **Roast to perfection:** Roast in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes, until an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the loin reads 140°F–145°F.

7. **Rest and finish the sauce:** Transfer the pork to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes (the internal temperature will rise a few degrees as it rests). Place the skillet with the fennel and remaining pan juices onto the stovetop over medium heat. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, simmering for 3 to 4 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly into a rich, glossy pan sauce.

8. **Slice and serve:** Slice the pork loin into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Spoon the tender, caramelized fennel onto a warm platter, lay the pork slices over top, and drizzle generously with the warm pan sauce. Sprinkle with reserved fresh fennel fronds right before serving!

Photo by Иван Григорьев on Pexels

Nothing says pure comfort like a rich, velvety chicken stew bubbling beneath a layer of golden, buttery homemade drop bi...
09/20/2026

Nothing says pure comfort like a rich, velvety chicken stew bubbling beneath a layer of golden, buttery homemade drop biscuits. It is the ultimate cozy Sunday dinner that will bring everyone running to the kitchen the second it hits the oven!

**INGREDIENTS**

**For the Chicken Stew:**
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces
* 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 medium yellow onion, diced
* 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch coins
* 2 stalks celery, chopped
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
* 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* 1/2 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
* 1 bay leaf
* 1 cup frozen green peas
* 1 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
* 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
* 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)

**For the Herb Drop Biscuits:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 tbsp baking powder
* 1/2 tsp baking soda
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
* 3/4 cup cold buttermilk
* 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped

**INSTRUCTIONS**

1. **Brown the chicken:** Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes (it does not need to be cooked fully through yet). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

2. **Sauté the aromatics:** Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pot. Stir in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. **Build the sauce:** Sprinkle the 1/3 cup of flour over the vegetables. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to coat the veggies and cook out the raw flour taste.

4. **Simmer the stew:** Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps, scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken and its juices to the pot, then add the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

5. **Finish the stew base:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Uncover the Dutch oven, discard the bay leaf, and stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas. Turn off the heat and taste, adjusting salt and pepper if needed.

6. **Mix the biscuit dough:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits. Stir in the chives, then pour in the cold buttermilk. Stir with a wooden spoon just until a shaggy dough comes together (do not overmix!).

7. **Top with biscuits:** Scoop golf-ball-sized dollops of biscuit dough (you should get about 6 to 8 biscuits) and place them directly on top of the warm stew, leaving a little space between each for expansion.

8. **Bake and serve:** Transfer the uncovered Dutch oven to the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the biscuits are deep golden brown on top and cooked through in the center, and the stew is thick and bubbling. Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 to 10 minutes to thicken, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Photo by Anil Sharma on Pexels

Bring the vibrant, sun-kissed flavors of the backyard garden right to your dinner table with this homemade Garner Garten...
09/20/2026

Bring the vibrant, sun-kissed flavors of the backyard garden right to your dinner table with this homemade Garner Garten Pizza! Loaded with crisp summer veggies, fragrant herbs, and melted gooey cheese on a chewy, handcrafted crust, it’s bound to become your new Friday night favorite.

# # # Ingredients

**For the Homemade Dough:**
* 3 ½ cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
* 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
* 1 ¼ cups warm water (around 110°F)
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
* 1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt

**For the Garden Toppings & Base:**
* 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
* 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
* ⅓ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
* 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, torn into bite-sized pieces
* ½ cup shredded Fontina cheese
* 1 small zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
* ½ small red onion, paper-thinly sliced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 cup fresh baby arugula
* 1 tablespoon aged balsamic glaze
* Pinch of flaky sea salt and red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

---

# # # Instructions

1. **Activate the yeast:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly.

2. **Make and knead the dough:** Stir 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the fine sea salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

3. **Preheat your oven:** Place a pizza stone or heavy baking sheet on the lowest rack of your oven and preheat to 475°F (245°C). Let it heat up for at least 30 minutes so it’s piping hot.

4. **Prep the garlic oil and veggies:** In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the minced garlic and set aside. Toss the zucchini slices, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion in a separate bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, dried oregano, and a light pinch of salt.

5. **Shape the crust:** Divide the risen dough in half (this recipe makes two 12-inch pizzas; save half for later or make both!). Stretch one half of the dough out on a sheet of parchment paper into a 12-inch round, keeping the edges slightly thicker for a puffy crust.

6. **Assemble the pizza:** Brush the minced garlic oil lightly over the dough, then spread the basil pesto evenly, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Distribute the shredded Fontina and torn fresh mozzarella over the pesto. Arrange the seasoned zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions evenly across the top.

7. **Bake to perfection:** Using a pizza peel or flat baking sheet, slide the pizza (on the parchment paper) directly onto your preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden brown and the cheese is blistered and bubbly.

8. **Garnish and serve:** Carefully remove the pizza from the oven. Immediately scatter the fresh baby arugula over the hot pizza, drizzle with the aged balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and red pepper flakes. Slice into wedges and enjoy immediately while piping hot!

Photo by Pranjall Kumar on Pexels

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