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Collard Green Soup

Smoked turkey, fire-roasted tomatoes, garlic, and collard greens all together in a warm and comforting bowl of delicious soup. Serve this collard green soup with a side of buttery cornbread.

Bowl of warm collard green soup

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Start off this soup season with a flavor-packed collard green soup. If you love this soup you'll also love my Hearty Instant Pot Vegetable Soup, Pressure Cooker Lentil Soup with Sausage, or Beet Soup Recipe.

Serve any of these delicious soups with Golden Sweet Potato Cornbread, Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe, or Easy Cornbread Muffins. Seriously, cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to soup.

fresh pot of collard green soup with ladle

Ingredients and Tools Needed

  • Olive Oil - for softening the aromatics.
  • Yellow onion, Garlic - can I make soup without these???
  • Smoked turkey wings - this helps bring flavor to this soup. You'll notice I used smoked meat in my traditional collard greens as well.
  • Cajun seasoning - for a little bit of a kick.
  • Low-sodium Chicken broth - keep it low sodium, or homemade with little salt, to control the salt content.
  • Dry black-eyed peas - you can also use canned if need be; add close to the end of cooking if using canned.
  • Fire-roasted tomatoes - I add this for added color and flavor. Regular diced tomatoes will work as well.
  • Bunch of Collard greens
  • Apple cider vinegar - helps balance the dish.
  • Salt and pepper to taste - always.
collard green soup ingredients

Tools needed for collard green soup:

  • Large pot with a lid, 5+ quarts
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

How to make Collard Green Soup

Place oil in a large pot over medium heat and add chopped onions. Cook and stir until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add chopped garlic and stir for an additional minute.

veggies sauteing in a dutch oven pot

Add smoked turkey, cajun seasoning, chicken broth, and black-eyed peas. Increase heat to medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a quick simmer. Allow to simmer for 2 minutes, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a tightly fitting lid and allow to simmer on medium-low heat for about 1 hour, until the turkey wing meat becomes tender.

dutch oven pot with broth and smoked turkey

Remove the smoked turkey wing from the pot and shred the meat from the bone. Set aside the meat.

Add roasted tomatoes and collard greens to the pot. Allow it to simmer for an additional 20 minutes until the greens are tender.

collard greens placed into the dutch oven

Return the meat to the pot and add the apple cider vinegar. Salt and pepper to taste.

finished collard green soup still in the pot

How should I chop up my Collard Greens?

Isn't cutting up collard greens pretty straightforward? Sure! But just a couple of tips to ensure a perfect soup.

  • Wash and dry collard greens.
  • Fold the leaves over themselves, and cut the stems out.
  • With the stems cut out, you can roll the leaves into a bundle and cut them into thin strips.

You can also use bag collard greens, which are prewashed and cut. If using bagged greens, make sure to chop these a little finer as well.

collard greens chopped into thin strips

Easy substitutions for this soup

Smoked Turkey Legs: Smoked ham hocks are a perfect substitute. Using ham will obviously raise the fat content, but still just as delicious.

Collard Greens: If collard greens are not readily available to you, kale is the most similar and will be just as tasty.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Regular white vinegar is a good replacement for ACV.

Black-eyed Peas: Great northern beans are a good replacement for black-eyed peas in this recipe.

collard green soup in a bowl topped with cheese

What does adding vinegar do?

When cooking collard greens, or even if you have to supplement kale, adding vinegar to either of these greens will be beneficial. Adding vinegar will cut the bitterness and toughness of these particular greens.

Apple cider vinegar is the more popular option, but white vinegar can work in a pinch as well. Don't be afraid of your soup tasting like vinegar! The flavors we add to the soup will shine through.

Notes

  • Try and get smaller-sized smoked turkey wings to ensure they become tender in about an hour. Large pieces will take longer to cook. 
  • If subbing canned black-eyed peas for the dried ones, add the black-eyed peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Looking for more soup recipes? Try these out:

 If you have tried this recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

collard greens placed into the dutch oven
Print Recipe
4.75 from 8 votes

Collard Green Soup

Smoked turkey, fire-roasted tomatoes, garlic, and collard greens all together in a warm and comforting bowl of delicious soup. Serve with a side of buttery corn bread.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 45 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish, Soup
Cuisine: Southern
Keyword: collard green soup
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 226kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 Yellow onion chopped
  • 4 cloves Garlic chopped
  • 1 pound Smoked turkey wings
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 6 cups Low-sodium Chicken broth
  • 1 cup Dry black-eyed peas rinsed
  • 15 ounce Fire-roasted tomatoes undrained
  • 1 large Bunch of Collard greens leaves only, thinly sliced (8 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Place oil in a large pot over medium heat and add chopped onions. Cook and stir until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add chopped garlic and stir for an additional minute.
  • Add smoked turkey, cajun seasoning, chicken broth, and black-eyed peas. Increase heat to medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a quick simmer. Allow to simmer for 2 minutes, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a tightly fitting lid and allow to simmer on medium-low heat for about 1 hour, until the turkey wing meat becomes tender.
  • Remove the smoked turkey wing from the pot and shred the meat from the bone. Set aside the meat.
  • Add roasted tomatoes and collard greens to the pot. Allow it to simmer for an additional 20 minutes until the greens are tender. Return the meat to the pot and add the apple cider vinegar. Salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

  • Try and get smaller-sized smoked turkey wings to ensure they become tender in about an hour. Large pieces will take longer to cook. 
  • If subbing canned black-eyed peas for the dried ones, add the black-eyed peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 226kcal

by 2 Comments

Brown Gravy Recipe (No Drippings)

My quick and easy recipe for brown gravy without drippings is ideal when you want to make a great tasting gravy, but don't have any meat drippings. I use a combination of both beef and chicken broth and then flavor my brown gravy recipe with Worcestershire sauce, onion and garlic powder.

A glass gravy jug filled with brown gravy

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

This best brown gravy recipe is easy as it uses ingredients most of us will already have in our stores at home.

I start by making a brown gravy roux with unsalted butter and flour. Making the brown gravy with flour means that the flour will thicken the gravy as it cooks.

It's a great make ahead gravy recipe, you can make it up earlier in the day and reheat when you're ready to eat. However, as it only takes 15 minutes to cook, it is super simple to pull together at the last minute too.

Gravy really does finish a dish, so be sure to try my Grandma's Giblet Gravy, Drippings Gravy, Easy Recipe for Gravy without Drippings, Onion Gravy, and my Instant Pot Sausage Gravy.

Ingredients

Here's a list of what you will need to make this brown gravy recipe:

Brown gravy recipe ingredients
  • Roux - Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour provide the flavor and help thicken the gravy. If you have drippings from meat, you can use that in place of the butter.
  • Worcestershire sauce - since this recipe does not use drippings, this sauce gives the gravy an umami flavor.
  • Seasoning - Garlic powder, onion powder, ground thyme, salt, and black pepper
  • Liquids - For this gravy, I prefer the combo of beef broth and chicken broth. Feel free to use all beef or chicken instead.

How to make giblet gravy

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. 

Sprinkle flour over the skillet and whisk. Continue to cook and whisk for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is toasty.  

Large skillet with melted butter
Large skillet with flour being whisked into melted butter

Whisk in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground thyme.

Then slowly whisk in beef broth and chicken broth until whisked in. 

Skillet with melted butter and flour whisked together with seasoning and spices added
Skillet with beef and chicken broth being added to gravy base

Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gravy has thickened. It should coat the back of a spoon.

Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. Serve and enjoy.

Large skillet with beef and chicken broth being whisked into gravy base
Skillet with brown gravy seasoned with salt and black pepper

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best brown gravy you've ever tasted:

  • Take care not to burn the butter when making the gravy base, as this can result in bitter tasting gravy. If the butter and flour are browning too quickly, turn down the heat.
  • Using good quality beef and chicken broth will make a big difference to the flavor of the finished gravy. If you have homemade broth this is a great use for it.
  • I use unsalted butter and low sodium beef and chicken broths to make this gravy as this avoids the gravy becoming too salty as it thickens and reduces. Instead I prefer to season brown gravy to taste, with salt and pepper once the gravy has cooked.
  • Make gravy in a skillet with high sides. The skillet allows the roux to cook evenly and the gravy to reduce faster.

Variations

  • I use both chicken and beef broth for this recipe. Feel free to use all beef broth if you prefer.
  • Add some fresh herbs like parsley, sage, thyme, or a bay leaf while the gravy is simmering for an additional herb taste.
  • You can always choose to make gravy with pan drippings if you prefer. You would need the drippings from roasted meat. 
Brown gravy being poured over a bowl of mashed potatoes

What do you serve it with?

If you’re looking for recipes to serve this gravy with, I strongly suggest these Creamy Mashed Potatoes.

Brown gravy is quick and easy to cook so perfect to serve as part any roast dinner or to add to a quick dinner through the week. It's also great for your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner and great with these recipes here:

How to store make ahead brown gravy

To refrigerate: This brown gravy can easily be made ahead of time and reheated. Once cooked, let the gravy cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It's best to used within 3-4 days, and reheat it to a boil before serving.

To freeze: Gravy freezes well, so it's a great option if you want to get ahead. Let cool completely then pour into an airtight container and place in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

A glass gravy jug filled with brown gravy and a white ceramic spoon

FAQs:

How to make gluten free brown gravy?

Remove the all purpose flour from the gravy and instead thicken the gravy with cornflour. Melt the butter and add the flavorings and beef and chicken broths. Then remove a ladle of gravy into a small bowl and add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and whisk to smooth. Pour this mixture back into the gravy and whisk to combine. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the gravy has thickened up.

Can I use water instead of broth in my gravy?

Yes you can, but you will need to add lots of extra seasoning and flavorings to ensure the gravy doesn't taste bland.

How can I avoid lumps in my gravy?

The best way to avoid lumpy gravy is to make a brown gravy roux of melted butter and flour. Allow the flour to cook into the fat, then whisking, slowly add the beef and chicken broth. Constant whisking will stop any lumps from forming.

How do I fix a gravy that is too thin?

If your gravy is too thin, continue simmering it until the gravy reduces.

How do I fix a gravy that is too thick?

If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a little more liquid, either broth or water, to loosen it a little. Then remember to check the gravy again for seasoning and adjust if necessary.

If you have tried making my Brown Gravy recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

A glass gravy jug filled with brown gravy and a white ceramic spoon
Print Recipe
4.50 from 2 votes

Brown Gray Recipe (No Drippings)

Easy recipe for brown gravy without drippings using both beef and chicken broth and flavored with Worcestershire sauce, onion and garlic powder.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Keyword: brown gravy, brown gravy no drippings, easy brown gravy, gravy without drippings, how to make gravy
Servings: 3 cups
Calories: 302kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 6 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 6 tablespoon all purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground thyme
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.  Sprinkle flour over the skillet and whisk. Continue to cook and whisk for 1-2 minutes.
  • Whisk in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground thyme. Then slowly whisk in beef broth and chicken broth until whisked in.
  • Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gravy has thickened. It should coat the back of a spoon.
  • Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

I use both chicken and beef broth for this recipe. Feel free to use all beef broth if you prefer.

Nutrition

Calories: 302kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 1267mg | Potassium: 579mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 712IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 2mg

by 3 Comments

Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Easy, creamy, and delicious mashed potatoes in the slow cooker. Hints of garlic, butter, and sour cream bring these mashed potatoes to the next level.

mashed potatoes in slow cooker with spoon sticking out

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Work smarter, not harder, this holiday season. Preparing dishes in your slow cooker can be a lifesaver, especially when the oven and stovetop are all spoken for. And when it comes to mashed potatoes, they come out wonderful when made in the slow cooker.

These mashed potatoes are creamy. They're a dream. They're smooth and delicious as if they have been whipped to perfection. Cover them in gravy for the perfect side. Or eat them as is.

gravy being poured on slow cooker

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Mashed Potatoes

  • Russet Potatoes - Peeled or unpeeled, your choice...but for the creamiest potatoes, unpeel them.
  • Chicken broth
  • Seasoning - Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper
  • Unsalted butter
  • Sour cream - for a little bit of tang.
slow cooker mashed potatoes ingredients

Kitchen Tools Needed To Make This Recipe

  • 6-quart Slow Cooker or Crock Pot
  • Potato Peeler
  • Fine Potato Masher or Hand beater

How to make Mashed Potatoes in a Slow Cooker

Add potatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder to a 6-quart slow cooker

cubed potatoes in a slow cooker

Top with unsalted butter on top.

cubed potatoes in a slow cooker with butter on top

Cover and cook on the high setting for 4 hours or on the low setting for 8 hours, until the potatoes are tender. 

cubed potatoes in a slow cooker

Open the lid. The potatoes should be tender at this stage and slightly brown. You'll notice a lot of water. Do not fret; mash the potatoes with a fine potato masher until mashed and creamy. You can also use an electric mixer to beat the potatoes until whipped and smooth. The potatoes will thicken while mashing.

creamy mashed potatoes in a slow cooker being mashed

Stir in sour cream, salt, and pepper.   

creamy mashed potatoes in a slow cooker with sour cream on top

 Serve and enjoy. 

creamy mashed potatoes in a slow cooker

Storing leftover Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes

Refrigerate leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

Prepare your dish ahead of time

Time is precious during the few hours we have to prepare our holiday dishes, so if you are making these delicious creamy mashed potatoes in a slow cooker this year, planning this dish could save some time and headache.

Peel and cube your potatoes the day before. Keep them covered in a bowl of water in the fridge until you're ready to use them.

You can even par-boil cubed potatoes the day before and keep them in an airtight container in the fridge before returning them to the crock pot the next day. This might be a good option if you are short on time.

creamy mashed potatoes in a slow cooker

What do you serve them with?

Mashed potatoes are a great everyday side dish, but these are also impressive enough to serve at larger gatherings and throughout the holidays. Try them with:

Creamy slow cooker mashed potato FAQs

What are the best Potatoes for mashing?

The two most popular potatoes perfect for mashing are russet potatoes and Yukon gold potatoes. Both are starchy, which makes for a light and fluffy mashed potato. If you've chosen a waxy potato, chances are your mash will have some lumps in it. Some people prefer that, though.

How do you keep mashed potatoes from drying out in a crock pot?

Before placing your potatoes in the crock pot, greasing the bowl beforehand will help to prevent any burning or sticking that could dry out your potatoes. Leaving your mashed potatoes in a crock pot for a few hours may cause them to start browning on the edges. To prevent this, stir the potatoes often, and keep a few pats of butter on top to keep them moist. Leaving the lid on will greatly reduce dryness as well.

Why so much liquid?

This recipe calls for more liquid than most slow-cooker potato recipes. The extra liquid makes these potatoes extra creamy as the potatoes absorb the excess liquid. I do the same with my pressure-cooker mashed potatoes.

To halve the recipe

To halve this recipe to 8 servings rather than 16, cut the ingredients in half and cook in a 4-quart slow cooker on high for 4 hours or low for 7-8 hours.

Notes:

  • Feel free to leave the skin on the potatoes if you prefer. 
  • The potatoes will have a lot of liquid in the slow cooker when you take the lid off; this is expected. Immediately mash the potatoes. The potatoes will soak up the excess liquid. 
  • Keep the mashed potatoes in a warm setting until ready to serve. 

Looking for more Side Dish recipes? Try these out:

 If you have tried this recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

mashed potatoes in a bowl topped with salt and pepper
Print Recipe
4.50 from 2 votes

Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Easy, creamy, and delicious mashed potatoes in the slow cooker. Hints of garlic, butter, and sour cream really bring these mashed potatoes to the next level.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time4 hours
Total Time4 hours 15 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: slow cooker mashed potatoes
Servings: 16 servings
Calories: 180kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 5 pounds Russet Potatoes Peeled and chopped into 1-inch chunks
  • 3 cups Chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon Onion powder
  • 8 tablespoons Unsalted butter
  • ½ cup Sour cream
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Add potatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and unsalted butter to a 6-quart slow cooker
  • Cover and cook on the high setting for 4 hours or on the low setting for 8 hours, until the potatoes are tender. 
  • Open the lid and mash the potatoes with a fine potato masher, until mashed and creamy. You can also use an electric mixer to beat the potatoes until whipped and smooth. The potatoes will thicken while mashing.
  • Stir in sour cream, salt, and pepper.   
  •  Serve and enjoy. 

Notes

  • Feel free to leave the skin on the potatoes if you prefer. 
  • The potatoes will have a lot of liquid in the slow cooker when you take the lid off, this is expected. Immediately mash the potatoes. The potatoes will soak up the excess liquid. 
  • Keep the mashed potatoes on the warm setting until ready to serve. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 175mg | Potassium: 611mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 222IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 1mg

by 2 Comments

Thanksgiving Chicken

If turkey isn't your thing, you have to try this whole roasted chicken this Thanksgiving. Simple and easy to prep, it's perfectly seasoned, juicy and flavorful. Oven roast or air fry for a show stopping centerpiece during the holidays.

A Thanksgiving chicken served next to fresh herbs.

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

If turkey isn't your thing, or maybe this year you a hosting a smaller Thanksgiving, then a whole roasted chicken is a great alternative. Easy to prep, this seasoned chicken is hands down delicious!

Whether you use the traditional oven roasting method, or opt to air fry it, this chicken comes out perfectly every single time. Serve it up with your favorite Thanksgiving sides for one delicious meal that everyone will love!

You'll want to start getting ready to make this chicken the day before. I use a dry brine and let it chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours. If you can let it chill for 24 hours, even better. A dry brine will leave you with a nice and juicy bird with crispy skin.

Love chicken try these great tasting recipes, my Jamaican Jerk Chicken (Air Fryer, Oven, or Grill), Jamaican Curry Chicken. Air Fried Spatchcock Chicken or my Brown Stew Chicken.

Be sure to check out my Smothered Turkey Wings and Air Fryer Turkey Breast too!

Ingredients

Here is what you will need for this recipe:

A whole raw chicken and spice mix.

How to make Thanksgiving whole roasted chicken

Rubbing the dry mix under the skin of the chicken.
The rub all over the whole chicken.
  • Gather your ingredients.
  • In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Set aside.
  • Remove the chicken from the packaging and any giblets. Dry the chicken with paper towels.
  • Season the outside of the chicken and under the skin with the dry rub mixture. Season inside the cavity as well.
  • Place in a baking dish or roasting pan and place in the fridge, uncovered, for 8-24 hours.
Stuffing the chicken.
Stiffing in the cavity of the chicken.
The chicken trussed.
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and remove the chicken from the fridge. If using stuffing, stuff your chicken at this time. If not, place lemon slices and herbs in the cavity. Truss the chicken at this time.
The Thanksgiving chicken after being roasted.
  • Once your oven is preheated, bake the chicken in the oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes or 20 minutes per pound, until a thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the thigh reads at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Add an additional 10-15 minutes if the chicken is stuffed.
  • Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.

How to cook Thanksgiving Chicken in Air Fryer?

  • Follow the first 4 steps of the recipe, placing the chicken in the seasoning blend for 8-24 hours.
  • When ready to cook remove the chicken from the fridge and allow to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  • If using stuffing, stuff your chicken at this time. If not, place lemon slices and herbs in the cavity. Truss the chicken at this time.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Place seasoned chicken in the air fryer, breast side down. Cook on 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. Open the air fryer basket and flip the chicken. Then cook on 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 more minutes. Add an additional 5-10 minutes if the chicken is stuffed.
  • Again, your chicken is done when a quick read thermometer in the thickest part of chicken registers at 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Allow chicken to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving

What do you serve with Roast Chicken?

This Thanksgiving chicken recipe is perfect to enjoy with all of your favorite sides. I always like to serve a potato side, like my Garlic Mashed Potatoes, one or two veggie sides like my Air Fryer Carrots or Buttery Instant Pot Green Beans and Potatoes, and always some of my homemade Gravy made without Drippings or a Gravy made with drippings.

Expert Tips

  • For the best results, allow the chicken to sit with the rub for at least 8 hours or overnight. The longer the marinate the more intense the flavor.
  • Allow the chicken to come up to room temperature before placing in the hot oven.
  • Allow the chicken to rest under foil for 15 to 20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
  • If stuffing the chicken, the stuffing on the inside should register a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit when done.
The breast sliced off of the whole roasted chicken.

Variations

  • Play with the flavor of the seasoning blend, eg use Italian seasoning along with the poultry seasoning.
  • Add some extra fresh herbs to the cavity of the chicken, like rosemary, thyme, sage or parsley.
  • Crush some fresh garlic cloves and place them into the cavity too.
  • Swap the lemon for orange instead.

How to store Thanksgiving Chicken

Make ahead: This whole roasted chicken is best prepped the day before you plan to cook and serve it. The rub on the chicken helps to season the meat and the longer you leave it, the more the salt will be drawn into the chicken for a more flavorful bite. It also helps to remove moisture from the skin so that it is extra crispy.

To refrigerate: The best part of Thanksgiving is of course the leftovers! Remove the meat from the bones and place it in an airtight container, it will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The leftovers can be enjoyed cold in sandwiches and salads, or reheated in the oven. This creamy rotisserie chicken salad is one of my favorites to make with the leftovers.

To freeze: Once cooked and cooled, place the chicken into an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator when you are ready to serve.

FAQs:

How many people does a whole chicken serve?

This recipe is for a 4 to 5lb whole chicken and it will easily serve four people. Allow for a pound per person. The larger the chicken, the longer cooking time it will require. A good rule of thumb is to allow 20 minutes of cooking time per pound at 350F. Check that your chicken is fully cooked through by using an instant read thermometer which should register at 165F when inserted into the thigh.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The best way to check that meat is cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken thigh, it should read at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit when properly cooked.

Do I need to cook the chicken longer if it is stuffed>

Yes, add an additional 10-15 minutes if the chicken is stuffed.

If you have tried this Thanksgiving chicken recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

A Thanksgiving chicken served next to fresh herbs.
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Thanksgiving Chicken

If turkey isn't your thing, you have to try this whole roasted chicken this Thanksgiving. Simple and easy to prep, it's perfectly seasoned, juicy and flavorful. Oven roast or air fry for a show stopping centerpiece during the holidays.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time1 hour 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: best roasted chicken recipe, whole chicken for Thanksgiving, whole roasted chicken recipe
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 480kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoons poultry seasoning
  • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 4-5 lb whole chicken
  • 1 lemon sliced, fresh herbs, or stuffing (optional)

Instructions

Oven Instructions:

  • In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Set aside.
  • Remove the chicken from the packaging and any giblets. Dry the chicken with paper towels.
  • Season the outside of the chicken and under the skin with the dry rub mixture. Season inside the cavity as well.
  • Place in a baking dish or roasting pan and place in the fridge, uncovered, for 8-24 hours.
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and remove the chicken from the fridge. If using stuffing, stuff your chicken at this time. If not, place lemon slices and herbs in the cavity. Truss the chicken at this time.
  • Once your oven is preheated, bake the chicken in the oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes or 20 minutes per pound, until a thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the thigh reads at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Add an additional 10-15 minutes if the chicken is stuffed.
  • Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.

Air Fryer Instructions:

  • Follow steps 1-4
  • Remove chicken from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. If using stuffing, stuff your chicken at this time. If not, place lemon slices and herbs in the cavity. Truss the chicken at this time.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place seasoned chicken in the air fryer, breast side down. Cook on 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. Open the air fryer basket and flip the chicken. Then cook on 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 more minutes. Add an additional 5-10 minutes if the chicken is stuffed.
  • Your chicken is done when a quick read thermometer in the thickest part of chicken registers at 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Allow chicken to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.

Notes

  • For the best results, allow the chicken to sit with the rub for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  • Allow the chicken to come up to room temperature before placing in the hot oven.
  • See below for the air fryer cooking instructions.
  • Allow the chicken to rest under foil for 15 to 20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
  • If stuffing the chicken, the stuffing on the inside should register a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit when done.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 163mg | Sodium: 1462mg | Potassium: 462mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 324IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 2mg

This post was originally published on September 22, 2021. It has been updated with additional helpful information.

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Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

This Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is the perfect combination of flavor and creaminess. This is the recipe to use when making that big casserole of macaroni and cheese for the Holidays. 

creamy baked macaroni and cheese in pan next to white plate

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

If you were wondering what side you should make and bring to Thanksgiving this year look no further. It's this creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe. As a matter of fact, don't even wait that long to make this homemade creamy baked macaroni and cheese.

Make it now, and thank me later. If you do decide to make it, perhaps for dinner, why not try it along with these Easy Baked Chicken Wings and wash it down with this Peach Sweet Tea & Rum for that Southern feel.

This recipe comes courtesy of Elgin. Thanks, Elgin! Here's a little back story...Two years ago, a friend of mine, Sally, had a beach getaway for her hubby, Lou, where we were all invited to stay at this lovely beach house on the outer banks.

Sally invited her friends who included hubby and me, and Lou invited his friends, which included Elgin and his wife, among other friends. The things that happened that weekend is for another post...or maybe I'll never tell because what happens at the beach house, stays at the beach house.

Ok, back to this mac and cheese. So apparently, one night, Elgin makes this baked creamy macaroni and cheese, and everyone in the house gets some...except for me. Why not may you ask? Well, they claim I was drunk...or asleep. I don't believe it, I think the greedies in the house didn't want to share. hmmmpph. So I got none of this macaroni and cheese, but I heard enough about it the entire weekend to imagine how delicious it was.

creamy baked macaroni and cheese in steel bowl

Fast forward to a year later, and my friend put together another event for her hubby. This time, everyone pretty much demands that Elgin makes this baked macaroni and cheese. This time, I for sure was going to get me a plate. Get me a plate I did and I had about 4 servings that night of this macaroni and cheese.

macaroni and cheese on fork

This macaroni and cheese was so creamy and delicious, it reminded me of stovetop....but it was baked! Yall, I have had so much dry and bad-baked macaroni in my life that I usually run when I see it.

But this macaroni was so creamy and cheesy and gooey that it was love...all love! It as so good that I begged and pleaded with Elgin for the recipe. Just kidding! I asked once and he was like "sure, let me write it down," and his wife even got the pen and paper. Seriously, if it were me, I don't know if I'd share. hmm...thinking of hitting the delete button on this post...just kidding.

I hope you all enjoy this oooey goooey creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe. I will go ahead and go on record and say that this is the BEST baked macaroni and cheese recipe I have ever had. No more of that dry baked macaroni and cheese...Come on over to the creamy side.

Notes on Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

  • The original recipe for this macaroni and cheese recipe comes from Patti Labelle. She is a beast in the kitchen so no surprise that it's so good. Elgin did make modifications by doubling the cheese and substituting whipping cream for half&half.
  • I modified the recipe as well by creating a crunchy topping, increasing the heat by 25 degrees. I also subbed colbyjack/monterey cheese for just monterey.  Feel free to leave the panko topping off if you choose but I feel it's a must in a baked macaroni and cheese recipe.
  • This recipe has 5 types of cheese. Yes, 5 different kinds of cheese. The amount of cheese will scare you at first but believe me, it's necessary and makes this dish delicious.
  • Is this recipe healthy? Probably not...but who cares because...CHEEEEEEEESE.
  • I'd recommend keeping the cheeses the same as stated...even the Velveeta. The beauty of this is that all the cheese melts and tastes perfect. There is a science to melting cheese.

Looking for more Recipes for the Holidays??? Try these out:

Looking for more pasta recipes?

You can also use this leftover macaroni and cheese to make these Air Fried Macaroni and Cheese Balls recipe. 

Click Here to Pin Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese for Later

How to store Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Make ahead: This whole recipe can be made 1-2 days ahead of time. You can either cook and combine the macaroni and sauce, spreading it into a casserole dish. Then cover it and store in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to baking (you can preheat your oven at this time), sprinkle over the cheesy breadcrumb topping, and place into the hot oven to bake.

Alternatively, you can bake the creamy mac and cheese, then allow it to cool completely before covering it and storing it in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. When ready to enjoy, place back into a warm oven to heat through for 30 minutes.

To refrigerate: Leftover mac and cheese can be stored, and covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to heat up, place the dish back into a warm oven, or into the microwave to warm through.

To freeze: Creamy baked mac and cheese freezes well, and again there are two points where you can do this. You can cook and combine the macaroni and sauce, spreading it into a casserole dish and allowing it to cool completely. Then cover the dish and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the refrigerator, sprinkle over the cheesy breadcrumb topping, and place into the hot oven to bake.

Or, you can finish the recipe and allow the baked mac and cheese to cool completely before covering and storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Again defrost overnight in the refrigerator before placing it into a warm oven to heat through until piping hot.

FAQs:

What type of cheese is good for baked mac and cheese?

As you can see from the recipe card, I use a combination of mild cheddar, Monterey jack, muenster and Velveeta cheese in my creamy mac and cheese. However, you could also use sharp cheddar, Parmesan, mozzarella, fontina, or Gruyere cheese too.

Why do you put eggs in baked macaroni and cheese?

I add eggs to give the cheese sauce a richer, creamier and smoother texture, which makes all the difference to the finished dish.

Do you cover mac and cheese while baking?

No you don't need to cover this baked macaroni dish while baking in the oven. You want to leave the top uncovered so that the cheesy bread-crumbed topping becomes crisp and golden.

If you have tried my Creamy Baked Macaroni & Cheese recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

mac and cheese on fork
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4.81 from 31 votes

Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

This Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is the only baked macaroni cheese recipe you will need. It's the combination of different cheeses that makes this a crowd favorite. 
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: creamy baked macaroni and cheese
Servings: 8
Calories: 1117kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 8 Tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 8 oz mild cheddar cheese
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 oz monterey jack cheese
  • 8 oz Muenster cheese
  • 8 oz velveeta cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon creole seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Coat a 3 quart casserole dish with 1 Tablespoon of butter and set aside.
  • Prepare macaroni following the instructions on the box. (Add 1 tablespoon oil and 1 teaspoon salt to about 8 cups water and bring to a boil. Cook to al dente). Drain and Set aside the noodles in a large bowl. Add the remaining butter to the hot noodles in the bowl.
  • Meanwhile, shred mild cheddar, sharp cheddar, Monterey jack, and Muenster cheese. Mix shredded cheese in a bowl and remove 1 cup of cheese and set aside for the topping. Cut Velveeta cheese into small pieces and mix with the other cheese.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy whipping cream. Add to macaroni and stir. Add cheese, creole seasoning, and salt and stir to combine.
  • Pour the mixture into the buttered casserole dish and spread it out.
  • Prepare the topping by adding melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, and the 1 cup of shredded cheese in a bowl. Sprinkle the toppng over the top of the macaroni.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until bubbly. Remove from oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes. Serve and enjoy 🙂

Notes

This whole recipe can be made 1-2 days ahead of time. You can either cook and combine the macaroni and sauce, spreading it into a casserole dish. Then cover it and store in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to baking (you can preheat your oven at this time), sprinkle over the cheesy breadcrumb topping, and place into the hot oven to bake.

Suggested Tools for Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

3 Qt Glass Baking Dish

Nutrition

Calories: 1117kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 44g | Fat: 81g | Saturated Fat: 48g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 271mg | Sodium: 1624mg | Potassium: 425mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 2871IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 1055mg | Iron: 2mg

This post was originally published on October 16, 2018. It has been updated with helpful information.

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Chocolate Chess Pie

One of my favorite easy pie recipes is my Best Chocolate Chess Pie. I've taken an old fashioned chess pie recipe, like my own Southern Chess Pie recipe and added some cocoa powder to give it a chocolaty twist. This is a pie your friends and family are sure to enjoy.

A slice of chocolate chess pie on a plate with a serving fork and the larger pie set alongside

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

This dark chocolate chess pie has a flaky pie crust and a deliciously fudgy filling underneath that is almost fudge like in texture.

I like to make my own homemade pie crust, but if you're pushed for time a store bought pie crust will work just fine too. The chocolate pie filling takes minutes to whip together and uses basic ingredients that most of you will have in your stores at home.

Pies are a favorite sweet treat for my family over the colder months of the year and are great to serve up for Thanksgiving or Christmas, or indeed any other gathering of family and friends.

Some of my favorites include my Homemade Pumpkin Pie, Southern Sweet Potato Pie, Purple Sweet Potato Pie, Southern Pinto Bean Pie and my Carrot Pie.

Ingredients

Here is what you will need for my delicious rich and fudgy chocolate chess pie recipe:

Chocolate chess pie recipe ingredients
  • Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • Granulated sugar
  • Large eggs
  • Unsalted butter
  • Cocoa powder
  • Evaporated milk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt 

How to make a Chocolate Chess Pie

Eggs and granulated sugar being beaten together in a large white bowl with an electric mixer
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees C).
  • In a large bowl, add the granulated sugar and eggs.
  • Beat the eggs and sugar together with an electric mixer until thoroughly combined, about 2-3 minutes.
A large white bowl with the ingredients for chocolate chess pie filling being beaten together with an electric mixer
  • Add the unsalted butter, cocoa powder, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt and beat until combined.
A pastry case filled with chocolate chess pie filling ready for the oven
  • Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until the pie is set, about 40-45 minutes.
A baked chocolate chess pie
  • Remove the pie from the oven and set aside on a wire rack to cool for about 1 hour to allow the pie to firm up, before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best chocolate chess pie you've ever tasted. 

  • You can also use a whisk to mix the ingredients if you don’t have an electric beater. Just make sure the ingredients are fully combined and free of any lumps.
  • Place the pie dish onto a baking sheet prior to baking to avoid spillage.
  • The pie may bubble up while baking. Don’t worry, it will deflate once it’s removed from the oven and cools.
  • The pie crust used in this recipe should be partially baked, so use a store bought pie crust or make your own and part bake it.
  • Once baked, set the pie aside for one hour and allow the pie to set firm before slicing.
A slice of chocolate chess pie served on a plate

Variations 

  • Swap the cocoa powder and make a lemon chess pie by adding the the zest and juice of 2 whole lemons to the custard filling. Or how about using limes or oranges?
  • Chocolate works great with other spices so why not add a pinch of ground spices like ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon.
  • Make a chocolate and coffee filling by adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the filling.

How to serve my Chocolate Chess Pie

There is so much flavor in this pie that I like to keep things simple. Serve a slice of pie with a sprinkling of powdered sugar. Then add some whipped cream, or your favorite vanilla ice-cream, if desired.

A slice of chocolate chess pie on a plate and a fork with a piece of pie on it

How to store leftover Chess Pie

To refrigerate: Once baked, this pie will keep for 24 hours at room temperature, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To freeze: Once cooked and cooled, wrap the pie in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge, or at room temperature for a couple of hours, when you are ready to enjoy.

FAQs:

How do you serve Chocolate Chess Pie?

This pie can be served at room temperature or served from the refrigerator slightly chilled.

How do you know when chocolate chess pie is done?

When the chocolate chess pie filling has set and is no longer liquid, the pie is cooked. You can check by giving the pie a quick jiggle, or by inserting a toothpick into the filling, if cooked it will come out clean.

Do I need to rest the pie before serving?

Yes, once baked, set the pie aside on a wire rack for 1 hour. This will allow the pie to cool down and the center to firm up ready for slicing.

If you have tried this Chocolate Chess Pie recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

A slice of chocolate chess pie on a plate with a serving fork and the larger pie set alongside
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4.50 from 2 votes

Chocolate Chess Pie

My Chocolate Chess Pie is a chocolaty twist on an old fashioned chess pie recipe where cocoa powder has been added to the custard pie filling.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: best chocolate chess pie, chocolate chess pie, dark chocolate chess pie, easy chocolate chess pie, easy chocolate pie recipe, easy pie recipe
Servings: 8
Calories: 1254kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 9 inch pie crust
  • 1 ⅓ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 tablespoon unsalted butter melted
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 5 oz can evaporated milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees C).
  • In a large bowl, add the granulated sugar and eggs. Beat the eggs and sugar together with an electric mixer until thoroughly combined, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the unsalted butter, cocoa powder, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and salt and beat until combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until the pie is set, about 40-45 minutes.
  • Remove the pie from the oven and set aside on a wire rack to cool for about 1 hour to allow the pie to firm up, before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • You can also use a whisk to mix the ingredients if you don’t have an electric beater. Just make sure the ingredients are fully combined and free of any lumps.
  • Place the pie dish onto a baking sheet prior to baking to avoid spillage.
  • The pie may bubble up while baking. Don’t worry, it will deflate once it’s removed from the oven and cools.
  • The pie crust used in this recipe should be partially baked, so use a store bought pie crust or make your own and part bake it.
  • Once baked, set the pie aside for one hour and allow the pie to set firm before slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 1254kcal | Carbohydrates: 146g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 67g | Saturated Fat: 23g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 30g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 1029mg | Potassium: 331mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 279IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 101mg | Iron: 6mg

by 5 Comments

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Have these juicy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs prepared and on the table in just 15 minutes. Dip into a tangy marinara sauce or place atop a heap of spaghetti.

cooked turkey meatballs in the basket

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Crisp on the outside, and full of flavor and juices on the inside. Preparing meatballs in the air fryer has been such a time saver, and they turn out perfect every time! Check out these Quick and Easy Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe for another meatball recipe that's just as delicious.

If meatballs is what you're craving, but don't have an air fryer that's no problem. My Lamb Meatballs with Herb Yogurt Sauce and Sweet & Spicy Party Meatballs are top-notch! Serve these as delicious appetizers during any occasion.

a turkey meatball with a bite taken out of it on a fork

Ingredients for Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Here are the tasty ingredients you'll need for this recipe:

air fryer turkey meatball ingredients
  • Onion , Garlic, Parsley - these provide so much flavor to these meatballs. They also help keep then juicy.
  • Ground turkey - the star ingredient.
  • Egg and Italian seasoned breadcrumbs - the binders.
  • Parmesan cheese - Grated cheese will incorporate better than shredded parmesan cheese.
  • Worcestershire sauce, Kosher salt, and Ground black pepper - for added flavor.

Tools needed for Perfect Air Fryer Meatballs

How to make and prepare Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Combine onion, garlic cloves, and parsley in a mini food processor. Process until finely chopped. Set aside. You can also grate your onion if you don't have a mini food processor.

A food processer blending ingredients

In a large bowl, place ground turkey, onion mixture, egg, Italian bread breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use hands to mix until combined.

meatball turkey mixture mixed up in a bowl

Grab 2 Tablespoons of meat mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the meat mixture until all meatballs are rolled.

turkey meatballs sat in an air fryer basket before cooking

Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure the meatballs don’t overlap. Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

A bowl full of turkey meatballs along side a dip

How to store turkey meatballs

Store your leftover air-fried turkey meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reheating: You can reheat air-fried turkey meatballs in the air fryer set at 250 F for 5 minutes until warmed through.

Knowing when your turkey meatballs are fully cooked

Your meatballs may look golden and delicious on the outside, but it's important to make sure they're fully cooked on the inside. The best practice is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The temperature for fully cooked turkey is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

close up or turkey meatballs garnished in the air fryer basket

Tips for the perfect turkey meatballs

  • Use a meat with a 85 % fat and 15 % lean fat content, this will ensure that your meatballs have that good turkey flavor and stay juicy. The fat will help to keep the meatballs moist and flavorful. You can use a 93/7 fat to lean ratio turkey meat, but the meatballs may be a little dry. Add a little more Worcestershire sauce and minced onion to accommodate for the lack of fat.
  • Use a food processor to process the onions, garlic, and parsley. You can also use a grater for the onion. The purpose is to get that onion very small. Not only do you not want big chunks of onion in your meatball, but the smaller the onion is, the more juicy your meatball will be.
  • Use binders - Eggs and breadcrumbs are common binders that help to hold the meatballs together. You can also use crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked rice.
  • Don't overmix the meatball mixture when combining the ingredients- overmixing will result in dense meatballs. Just mix until the ingredients are combined.
  • Shape them well - Once you have your mixture ready, it's time to start shaping the meatballs. Be sure to form them into tight balls so that they hold together well. If they are too loose, they will fall apart during cooking.
  • Cook them properly - Cooking the meatballs properly is key to getting a great result. Be sure to cook them all the way through so that they are safe to eat. Make sure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Serve them with a delicious sauce - The final tip is to serve the meatballs with a delicious sauce. This will help to keep them moist and add even more flavor. A good tomato sauce or gravy is always a great option.

Can I use other meats? Of course, you can. Give these Quick and Easy Air Fryer Meatballs Recipe a try. Or simply, replace the ground turkey with ground beef, pork, chicken, or lamb.

Looking for more air fryer related recipes? Try these out:

 If you have tried this recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

close up or turkey meatballs garnished in the air fryer basket
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4.75 from 4 votes

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Have these juicy turkey meatballs prepared and on the table in just 15 minutes. Dip into a tangy marinara sauce or place atop a heap of spaghetti.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 109kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 1 medium Onion peeled and chopped
  • 4 cloves Garlic peeled
  • ¼ cup Parsley rough chopped
  • 1 pound Ground turkey
  • 1 large Egg lightly beaten
  • ¼ cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Combine onion, garlic cloves, and parsley in a mini food processor. Process until finely chopped. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, place ground turkey, onion mixture, egg, Italian bread breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use hands to mix until combined.
  • Grab 2 tablespoon of meat mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the meat mixture until all meatballs are rolled.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure the meatballs don’t overlap. Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Notes

  • Use a meat with a 85 % fat and 15 % lean fat content, this will ensure that your meatballs have that good turkey flavor and stay juicy. The fat will help to keep the meatballs moist and flavorful. You can use a 93/7 fat to lean ratio turkey meat, but the meatballs may be a little dry. Add a little more Worcestershire sauce and minced onion to accommodate for the lack of fat.
  • Use a food processor to process the onions, garlic, and parsley. You can also use a grater for the onion. The purpose is to get that onion very small. Not only do you not want big chunks of onion in your meatball, but the smaller the onion is, the more juicy your meatball will be.

Nutrition

Serving: 2g | Calories: 109kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 57mg | Sodium: 458mg | Potassium: 243mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 240IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 1mg

by 4 Comments

Carrot Pie

My Sweet Carrot Pie combines carrot puree with condensed milk, eggs, vanilla and nutmeg to make a creamy filling, which is then added to a pastry crust and baked until just set in a hot oven. This pie has a lovely creamy textures and is perfect sweet pie to share with family and friends.

A white plate with a slice of carrot pie topped with piped cream with the whole pie and a glass of milk set alongside

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Fall always brings with it the wonderful warm spices that I love to cook with. They work perfectly with vegetables to make sweet tasting pies, like this classic carrot pie.

This old fashioned carrot pie recipe is really easy to make, with very few steps, however the results are always delicious. This pie, and the flavors, was inspired by my favorite carrot drink, Jamaican carrot juice. I used sweetened condensed milk as the sweetener and nutmeg as the spice. It worked perfectly.

Pies are a favorite sweet treat for my family during fall and are great to serve up for Thanksgiving or Christmas, or indeed any other gathering of family and friends.

Some of my favorites include my Homemade Pumpkin Pie, Southern Sweet Potato Pie, Purple Sweet Potato Pie, Southern Pinto Bean Pie and my Southern Chess Pie.

Ingredients

Here is what you will need for this carrot pie recipe:

Carrot pie recipe ingredients
  • Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • Carrots - I suggest whole carrots for this recipe for best flavor.
  • Sweetened Condensed milk
  • Large eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Salt 

How to make a Sweet Carrot Pie

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  • Place the carrots in a large pan and cover with about 1 inch of water. Cover and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the for 10-15 minutes, until softened. Remove from heat.
  • Drain the carrots and add them to a food processor and process until smooth. 
Food processor bowl filled with pureed carrot
  • Add condensed milk, eggs, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and salt and continue to process until smooth.
  • Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish. 
  • Bake in preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until the pie is set. Remove from the oven. Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. Enjoy 🙂
Top down image of a baked carrot pie

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best carrot pie you've ever tasted. 

  • Once the carrots have cooked, if time allows, set them aside to steam dry. This will "steam off" any excess moisture and avoid a watery pie filling.
  • As this is quite a wet pie filling, I recommend par-baking the pie crust first for this recipe. This ensures a crispy pie crust. Follow the instructions on your pie recipe for par-baking.
  • If the pie crust looks like it is starting to catch or burn around the edges, place some kitchen foil over the pie until it has finished baking.
  • This sweet carrot pie is best served once it has cooled. Allow it to cool for an hour before slicing and serving, this gives the pie filling time to set.
  • I like to make this pie up ahead of time, ideally a day before so it has time to chill. Then remove it from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you are ready to serve and allow it to come to room temperature.
A white plate with a slice of carrot pie topped with piped cream with the whole pie and a glass of milk set alongside

Variations 

  • Vegetables - Add different vegetables to the mix, you could combine the carrot with some pumpkin to make a pumpkin and carrot pie, sweet potato would work too. Just ensure you keep the same weight as detailed in the recipe card when combining the veggies.
  • Spices - I've added nutmeg and vanilla to flavor the pie, but ground spices like ginger, allspice and cinnamon would also work with the carrot.

How to serve my Sweet Carrot Pie

There is so much flavor in this pie that I like to keep things simple. Serve a slice of pie with some whipped cream or your favorite vanilla ice-cream.

A fork with a piece of carrot pie on it, and a white plate with a slice of carrot pie topped with piped cream in the background

How to store leftover Carrot Pie

To refrigerate: As this recipe contains eggs, keep any leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

To freeze: Once cooked and cooled, wrap the pie in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. Defrost overnight in the fridge when you are ready to enjoy.

A white plate with a slice of carrot pie topped with piped cream with the whole pie and a glass of milk set alongside

FAQs:

What does carrot pie taste like?

This classic carrot pie is a sweet pie with just a hint of warming nutmeg added along with the vanilla for flavor. It is similar in texture and flavor to a pumpkin or sweet potato pie.

How do you know when carrot pie is done?

When the carrot pie filling has set and is no longer liquid, the pie is cooked. You can check by giving the pie a quick jiggle, or by inserting a toothpick into the filling, if cooked it will come out clean.

Should carrot pie be served hot or cold?

Don't serve it hot straight from the oven, allow it to cool as this gives the center time to set. You can serve it warm at room temperature, or chill it in the fridge. It is down to personal preference.

If you have tried this Carrot Pie recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

A white plate with a slice of carrot pie topped with piped cream with the whole pie and a glass of milk set alongside
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5 from 4 votes

Carrot Pie

Sweet Carrot Pie combines carrot puree with condensed milk, eggs, vanilla and nutmeg to make a creamy filling, which is then added to a pastry crust and baked until just set in a hot oven.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Carrot pie, classic carrot pie, old fashioned carrot pie recipe, sweet carrot pie, traditional carrot pie
Servings: 8
Calories: 1196kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 9 inch pie crust
  • 4 cups carrots peeled & chopped - 1lb 4oz
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place the carrots in a large pan and cover with about 1 inch of water. Cover and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the carrots for 10-15 minutes, until softened. Remove from heat.
  • Drain the carrots and add them to a food processor and process until smooth.
  • Add condensed milk, eggs, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and salt and continue to process until smooth.
  • Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish.
  • Bake in preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until the pie is set. Remove from the oven. Allow to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

It’s best to par-bake your pie for this recipe. Follow the instructions on your pie recipe for par-baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 1196kcal | Carbohydrates: 137g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 63g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 29g | Trans Fat: 0.004g | Cholesterol: 54mg | Sodium: 1101mg | Potassium: 582mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin A: 10856IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 179mg | Iron: 6mg

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Air Fryer Fried Chicken

This Air Fryer Fried Chicken is golden brown, juicy, and full of flavor. It’s one recipe you have to try in your Air Fryer.

air fried chicken breast in Air Fryer

This post may contain affiliate links, please read my full disclosure here.

Full Recipe/Instructions are available in the
recipe card at the bottom of the post.
You can find important tips/tricks in the
blog post.


This recipe has over 150 5-star reviews! Check out our comments to discover why readers love this fried chicken made in the air fryer.

If you’re living in the South, then knowing how to make fried chicken is a must. I tried for the longest to avoid posting a fried chicken recipe on the blog because, in all honesty, I didn't tend to get excited about fried chicken.

Until now. For years, when my Southern husband requested fried chicken, I’d just shrug and make him these air fried chicken wings covered in an Asian sauce instead.

But one day, I went ahead and made a traditional Southern fried chicken recipe right in my Air Fryer. It was phenomenal. I had to apologize for taking so long to make it and I had to apologize for hating on fried chicken all these years. Now it’s a part of our monthly meal rotation.

I like to cut a whole chicken up into separate portions, it's economical and nothing goes to waste. I can make air fryer fried chicken thighs, air fryer fried chicken drumsticks, and also use the breast meat and wings too.

For the juiciest chicken, I like to marinade my Air Fryer Fried Chicken in buttermilk, which tenderizes the chicken and also adds a great tangy flavor.

air fried chicken pieces on white background

Ingredients

  • Whole chicken cut into separate pieces (breast, thigh, wing, and leg)
  • Hot sauce - I use Texas Pete.
  • Buttermilk
  • All-Purpose Flour
  • Seasoning salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Canola or vegetable oil

How to Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken

First, you will want to marinate your chicken. I use a mixture of half buttermilk and half hot sauce. I learned the hot sauce trick from my mother-in-law. The buttermilk helps keep the chicken juicy on the inside and the hot sauce adds flavor to the chicken. Don't worry about it being spicy, it won't be. You can marinate in the refrigerator anywhere from 1 hr to as long as 24 hours. 

chicken pieces in buttermilk and hot sauce

Combine flour, Italian seasoning, seasoning salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. I use a whisk to ensure that my flour is fully seasoned.

Grab a pair of tongs and remove one piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing it to drain off a bit, and place it in the flour mixture and use the tongs to make sure the chicken pieces are fully coated.

chicken leg in flour with tongs

Place a piece of parchment paper with holes in the Air Fryer. This has been my best solution for not having the breaded fried chicken stick to the bottom of the Air Fryer. Just make sure that you don’t put the parchment paper down without food on top. If it there is no food to hold it down, it could fly up into the heating coils on top of the air fryer and start a fire.

Place your floured chicken piece on top of the parchment paper. Make sure the chicken pieces are not overlapping or touching. The more space the better. 

chicken pieces covered in flour in Air Fryer

Frying the Chicken Pieces

Close the air fryer drawer and set the temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit and timer for 25 minutes.

After about 13 minutes, open the Air Fryer. Your chicken should look like the photo below on the left (still showing some dry flour spots). Grab your Air Fryer oil spray bottle and spray those flour spots. Then grab some tongs and flip your chicken. Spray this side of the chicken as well, covering all flour spots. Close your Air Fryer and let it resume cooking.

chicken pieces covered in flour in Air fryer basket
fried chicken pieces in air fryer basket

Once your cooking cycle is done, use a quick-read thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove and enjoy 🙂

There you have it! Delicious Southern Style Buttermilk Soaked Air Fryer Fried Chicken.

Additional recipes

If you like chicken, try these out:

If you're looking to fry fish instead, try this recipe for fish in your air fryer.

What to serve with Crispy Fried Chicken

Looking for some recipes to serve this chicken with? Try these out:

Notes on Air Fryer Fried Chicken

  • I do not recommend overlapping the chicken pieces in this recipe. It’s best to have the chicken spaces in a single layer and not touching. That way the air can get around the chicken to crisp it up and give it that nice and crispy golden layer.   
  • Remember to spray lightly with oil. The purpose of the oil in this recipe is to cover the dried flour spots. Not spraying with oil will have those flour spots tasting like you would imagine they would, dry flour. I use either canola or vegetable oil for my air-fried chicken.
  • Some breading will fall off, whether you use the liners or not. However, much less breading falls off when using parchment liners.
  • If using parchment liners, make sure that you place the chicken on top of them before starting the Air Fryer. Not doing so will cause the liners to fly into the fan, get caught, and possibly start a fire.
  • Timing will vary depending on the Air Fryer brand. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken has at least reached a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. My chicken usually reaches 180 degrees or more and is still juicy and deliciously crisp.  
  • This chicken is best served on the same day. If reheating, place chicken in Air Fryer and cook at 370 for about 10 minutes.
  • Use any part of the chicken you like that has skin on. The breading may not stick to skinless chicken and it may not be as crispy.  

Pin Air Fryer Fried Chicken for Later

pin image of air fryer fried chicken with chicken pieces in air fryer basket

Watch me make this chicken from start to finish.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Video

How to store leftover fried chicken

To refrigerate: Keep any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To heat up the next day warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 400F until warmed through. Leftovers also make a great addition to salads and sandwiches the next day.

To freeze: Once cooked and cooled, place any pieces of leftover chicken into an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. As the chicken is already cooked it can be reheated from frozen in a preheated oven at 350F. When ready to enjoy place the frozen chicken onto a baking sheet and place in the oven for 30-40 minutes to reheat.

FAQs:

Is it okay to put raw chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, absolutely, just ensure you cook it until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

How to make my breading stick to fried chicken?

The pieces of chicken are marinated in buttermilk and hot sauce. When ready to cook lift a piece of chicken and shake it gently to remove any excess marinade. This marinade will help the breading mixture to stick to the chicken.

Good substitutes for buttermilk?

If you don't have buttermilk in the fridge don't worry, there are a few good substitutes for buttermilk. Try adding a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk; alternatively, mix 1 ¾ teaspoons of cream of tartar to a cup of milk; or mix some sour cream or plain yogurt with a little milk or water to thin it down a little.

How to make Air Fryer Fried Chicken crispy?

Once the chicken is coated in the breading place the pieces into the Air Fryer in a single layer, allowing space between each piece of chicken for the air to circulate. Do not be tempted to overcrowd the basket or the chicken won't crisp up. Next set the Air Fryer to a hot 390 degrees Fahrenheit so the chicken cooks fast and high. Finally, I like the flip the chicken over halfway through, this also allows me to spray any flour spots with a little extra oil so the coating crisps up nicely.

The best oil to use for Air Fryer Fried Chicken?

I like to use Canola oil or vegetable oil as it has a higher smoke point which is ideal for frying chicken. Don't be tempted to use olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and is likely to burn.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Your chicken will not crisp up if using boneless chicken. I recommend using skin-on, bone-in chicken pieces.

What if my breading doesn't stick?

You can place your chicken pieces in the fridge for 10-15 minutes after breading, and before air frying. This will help if you have trouble with the breading staying on.

If you have tried my Air Fryer Fried Chicken or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

air fried chicken in air fryer basket
Print Recipe
4.78 from 177 votes

Air Fryer Fried Chicken

This Air Fryer fried chicken is a healthier and easier version of traditional fried chicken. Soaked in buttermilk and hot sauce, covered in seasoned flour, and air fried to perfection.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Marinade1 hour
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer chicken breast, air fryer fried chicken
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 318kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

Marinade

  • ½ whole chicken cut into separate pieces (breast, thigh, wing, and leg)
  • ½ cup hot sauce
  • ½ cup buttermilk

Seasoning

  • ¾ cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 teaspoon seasoning salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Oil for spraying Canola or Vegetable

Instructions

  • Place chicken pieces in buttermilk and hot sauce. Place in refrigerator and allow to marinate anytime from 1-24 hours.
  • Whisk together all-purpose flour, seasoning salt, garlic powder, onion powder, italian seasoning, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
  • Place a parchment liner in the Air Fryer basket.
  • Remove a piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture and place in the flour mixture, coating all sides of the chicken and shaking off any excess flour. Place the chicken pieces in the basket in a single layer.
  • Close the Air Fryer basket and set temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit and timer to 25 minutes. Start the Air Fryer.
  • After 13 minutes, open the air fryer and spray any flour spots on the chicken. Flip the chicken and spray the other side with oil, ensuring all the flour spots are covered. Close the Air fryer and cook for 12 more minutes.
  • Once the timer is up, open the Air Fryer and check chicken pieces with a quick read thermometer. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees at the thickest part of the chicken.

Video

Notes

  • I do not recommend overlapping the chicken pieces in this recipe. It’s best to have the chicken spaces in a single layer and not touching. That way the air can get around the chicken to crisp it up and give it that nice and crispy golden layer.  
  • Remember to spray lightly with oil. The purpose of the oil in this recipe is to cover the dried flour spots. Not spraying with oil will have those flour spots tasting like you would imagine they would, dry flour.
  • Some breading will fall of, whether you use the liners or not. However, much less breading falls of when using the parchment liners.
  • If using parchment liners, make sure that you place the chicken on top of them before starting the Air Fryer. Not doing so will cause the liners to fly into the fan, get caught, and possibly start a fire.
  • Timing will vary depending on Air Fryer brand. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken has  at least reached a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. My chicken usually reaches 180 degrees or more and is still juicy and deliciousy crsip.  
  • This chicken is best serve the same day. If reheating, place chicken in Air Fryer and cook on 370 for about 10 minutes.
  • Use any part of the chicken you like that has skin on. The breading may not stick to skinless chicken and it may not be as crispy. 
  • I use Texas Pete hot sauce in this recipe. If you are sensitive to heat or use a spicier brand, reduce the amount of hot sauce.  
Suggested Tools for Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Nutrition

Calories: 318kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 74mg | Sodium: 2055mg | Potassium: 297mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 325IU | Vitamin C: 23.9mg | Calcium: 56mg | Iron: 2.3mg

This post was originally published on March 5, 2019. It has been updated with additional helpful tips.

by 4 Comments

Homemade Jamaican Ginger Beer

This Traditional Jamaican Ginger Beer recipe is an old family recipe that is simple to make. Serve over ice for a great tasting island drink.

Two glasses decorated with slices of fresh lime filled with Jamaican ginger beer and a pitcher of Jamaican ginger beer set alongside

This post contains affiliate links, please read my full disclaimer here.

You’ll find the full recipe with ingredient amounts and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Be sure to check out the blog post itself for extra tips and tricks!

Homemade Jamaican ginger beer tastes superior to any store bought alternative. This is a refreshing drink, and once you've tried this recipe you won't buy store bought ginger beer again. As it is so easy to make, a jug of this Classic Jamaican ginger beer is perfect to serve at holiday get togethers with family and friends.

This homemade version is non-carbonated, non-alcoholic, and only takes a few ingredients to make. The process is simple as well. Ginger root is pureed, then added to boiling water along with cloves and cream of tartar. Once cooled the liquid is sieved before fresh lime juice, sugar, and vanilla extract are added

Ginger is naturally good for you and has many health properties, including being a great boost to your immune system. So ideal to drink over the colder winter months to prevent colds and flu.

If, like me, you enjoy making your own refreshing no-alcohol drinks, why not try my Jamaican Sorrel Drink, Homemade Cranberry Lemonade, Green Sherbet Punch, or my Strawberry Basil Lemonade.

Ingredients

Jamaican ginger beer ingredients

Here is what you will need for this recipe:

  • Water
  • Ginger root, peeled and chopped
  • Whole cloves
  • Cream of tartar
  • Lime juice from fresh limes
  • Light brown sugar
  • Vanilla extract

How to make Jamaican Ginger Beer

  • Bring 8 cups of water to a boil on the stove-top.
  • Meanwhile, add peeled and chopped ginger root and 2 cups of water to a blender. If you don't have a blender, grate the ginger.
  • Pulse until the ginger is finely chopped and mixed with the water. 
A white bowl of roughly chopped ginger root with whole root of ginger set alongside
A glass jar filled with blended ginger root puree
  • Add the ginger to the boiling water and stir it in.
  • Remove from the heat immediately.
  • Add the cloves and cream of tartar and cover.
  • Allow the mixture to cool. Once cool, place in the refrigerator for at least four hours, or overnight. 
Large pot filled with Jamaican ginger beer
  • Drain the ginger mixture and place the liquid into a large pitcher.
  • In a separate container, add the freshly squeezed lime juice and whisk in the brown sugar. This will allow the sugar to dissolve easily in the drink, similar to this Jamaican Lemonade.
Cooked Jamaican ginger beer being sieved into a large measuring jug
Glass measuring jug filled with lime juice, brown sugar and a balloon whisk
  • Add the lime and sugar mixture to the pitcher of ginger beer, along with the vanilla extract, and stir. 
  • Serve the ginger beer over ice. 
Glass pitcher filled with sieved Jamaican ginger beer

Expert Tips

These tips will help you make the best Jamaican ginger beer you've ever tasted. 

  • Peel the ginger. Leaving the skin on can result in a bitter tasting drink.
  • 1 ½ cups of brown sugar is added to the ginger beer. However, this can be adjusted up or down, depending on taste. If you like it a little sweeter add more sugar, less sweet then add less sugar. You can also use honey in place of the sugar or granulated sugar.
  • The longer the ginger beer sits, the stronger it will taste. Once made allow it to sit for at least 4 hours, but I prefer to leave it for 24 hours if time permits.
  • Serve this drink cold. It's nice and refreshing.
A glass decorate with a slice of lime being filled from a pitcher of Jamaican ginger beer

Variations 

I like this ginger beer just as it is, but here are some other options:

  • If you can find Jamaican ginger it is the best to use in this recipe as it is an aromatic and pungent ginger, superior in flavor to other ginger root. Otherwise use the ginger root you can find in-store.
  • If you don't have limes, lemon would be a good swap, although lemon is far more bitter in taste so you might have to adjust the sugar.
  • Strictly for the over 21 audience only, this ginger beer poured over ice with a shot of rum makes a delicious drink. Or add the drink to your favorite cocktail.
Two glasses decorated with slices of fresh lime filled with Jamaican ginger beer and a pitcher of Jamaican ginger beer set alongside

FAQs:

How long can you store Jamaican ginger beer?

Store the ginger beer in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Why is cream of tartar added to ginger beer?

Ginger beer is typically fermented, which is why the cream of tartar is added, it stops the sugar from crystallizing. It deepens the flavor of ginger beer as well. 

Is Jamaican ginger beer healthy?

This ginger beer is packed full of ginger root which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger also helps boost the immune system, helping to prevent colds and flu.

Does ginger beer settle the stomach?

This natural ginger beer is ideal as ginger root aids the digestive process so is good for your gut health too. It helps to settle the stomach, combating any nausea or ill effects from over eating.

If you have tried this Jamaican Ginger Beer recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, then please rate it and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

A glass decorate with a slice of lime being filled from a pitcher of Jamaican ginger beer
Print Recipe
5 from 5 votes

Homemade Jamaican Ginger Beer

This Traditional Jamaican Ginger Beer recipe is an old family recipe that is simple to make. Ginger root is pureed, then added to boiling water along with cloves and cream of tartar. Once cooled the liquid is sieved before fresh lime juice, sugar and vanilla extract are added. Serve over ice for a great tasting soft drink.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Resting time4 hours
Total Time4 hours 15 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican
Keyword: Best Jamaican ginger beer, Classic Jamaican ginger beer, Jamaican ginger beer, Traditional Jamaican ginger beer
Servings: 10
Calories: 168kcal
Author: Tanya

Ingredients

  • 10 cups water separated - 8 cups and 2 cups
  • 1 lb ginger root peeled and chopped
  • 6 whole cloves
  • ½ tablespoon cream of tartar
  • ½ cup lime juice from fresh limes
  • 1 ½ cups light brown sugar add more or less to taste
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Bring 8 cups of water to a boil on the stovetop. Meanwhile, add ginger root and 2 cups of water to a blender. Pulse until the ginger is finely chopped and mixed with the water.
  • Add the ginger to the boiling water and stir it in. Remove from heat immediately. Add the cloves and cream of tartar and cover. Allow the mixture to cool. Place in the refrigerator for at least four hours, or overnight.
  • Drain the ginger mixture and place the liquid into a large pitcher. In a separate container, add the freshly squeezed lime juice and whisk in the brown sugar. Add this to the pitcher of ginger beer, along with the vanilla extract, and stir.
  • Serve the ginger beer over ice.

Notes

  • Store the ginger beer in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. 
  • Ginger beer is typically fermented, which is why the cream of tartar is added. It deepens the flavor of ginger beer as well. 
  • The longer the ginger beer sits, the stronger it will taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 168kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.4g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 28mg | Potassium: 370mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 33g | Vitamin A: 6IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 1mg