Spring Dinner Ideas

As much as I’m all about cozy, comfort food recipes, there’s something exciting about the springtime shift in weather… and time! 

Longer days and extra sunshine mean out with stews or heavy casseroles and in with colorful, garden-fresh meals. It also means I can finally get out on the patio and fire up the grill and smoker.

We’ve rounded up over 20 of our favorite spring dinner recipe ideas, from pasta and chicken to pork and seafood. 

There are even a few veggie-heavy soups mixed in if you aren’t quite ready to say goodbye to your stockpot.

Many of these recipes come together in 30 minutes or less, so dinner can fit nicely into your busy springtime schedule.

EASY SPRING DINNERS

Simple doesn’t have to mean boring. Pasta and gnocchi are easy standbys that guarantee full bellies with minimal effort. Eating low carb? Zucchini noodles solve that problem! 

Lemon Pasta

Simplicity at its finest! Tender spaghetti tossed in a bright, buttery lemon sauce with plenty of garlic flavor, perfect as a side or light meal. Add chicken, shrimp, or veggies to make it more filling.

Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi Recipe with White Sauce

A little cream, a little garlic, and plenty of shredded cheese transform humble gnocchi into one of the most crave-worthy dinners for spring. The texture of these potato dumplings is absolutely incredible, with a golden, bubbly topping of gruyere. 

Zucchini Noodles with Sausage

Swap traditional pasta with zoodles for a lighter, veggie-packed dinner. Sausage links bring plenty of Italian flavor, tomatoes add juicy bursts of freshness, and everything cooks in one skillet

Easy Roasted Vegetables and Pasta

A drool-worthy parmesan sauce coats every inch of tender eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and penne. This recipe is about as hands-off as it gets! Combine roasted veggies with boiled pasta, then toss with oil, garlic, and cheese.

CHICKEN DINNERS FOR SPRING

These recipes all have one thing in common (besides chicken)… and that’s cheese! You’ll find everything from creamy sauces and melty toppings to tangy crumbles atop savory salads.

Alice Springs Chicken Outback Copycat Recipe

Honey mustard chicken smothered in bacon, cheese, and mushroom sauce… all the best flavors in one incredible bite! Perfect with a crisp side salad or a quick batch of air fryer French fries.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Recipe

An easy 20-minute meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With a creamy pesto sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta and tender bites of chicken, it’s filling enough for a meal with some crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Cheesy Chicken Pasta

One pot spring dinners are a favorite around here! More time chatting around bowls of cheesy noodles and less time washing dishes. Spinach and sun-dried tomatoes bring depth while white wine brightens the sauce in the best way.

30-Minute Creamy Chicken Lazone Recipe

Pan fried chicken breasts are seasoned to perfection, complemented perfectly by creamy fettuccine. It’s a simple, flavor-packed meal that’s easy to get on the table fast.

Panera Green Goddess Salad with Chicken

Hearty and fresh with a bright, herbaceous dressing… this one’s a winner for meals or prepping lunches! It’s even better than Panera’s and can be made at a fraction of the cost.

Italian Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs

Grab one pan, a handful of seasonings, fresh veggies, and juicy chicken thighs. Throw it all together and bake for one of the easiest dinner ideas for spring.

PORK & BEEF 

Too often, these cuts are reserved for BBQs and cookouts when there are so many delicious ways to make them on the stovetop. Dinner is ready in no time, without the need for several different sides.

Parmesan Baked Pork Chops

Weeknight simple with big weekend flavor. Juicy pork coated in a savory crust made from cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Delicious with potatoes, pasta, or a simple salad.

Cast Iron Pork Chops with Apples

This one tastes fancy but is so easy to make… and in only 20 minutes! Perfectly seared chops simmer in an apple cinnamon pan sauce, balancing sweet with savory for the perfect bite.

Copycat PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps Recipe

Saucy, crunchy, and deeply savory. If you’re looking for lighter dinner ideas for spring, this one is it. The ground meat filling is low-carb but just as delicious in a rice bowl. And you can easily swap the chicken for ground pork or beef!

Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe

Everything you love about egg rolls without the wrapper! Savory ground meat, shredded cabbage and carrots, and all the best Asian flavors combine into a filling, keto-friendly meal.

Beef and Vegetables Chop Suey

This easy stir fry recipe delivers takeout flavors to your kitchen in 30 minutes or less. Ultra-tender steak pairs with crisp veggies and a luscious sauce that’s got all the tastes: salty, sweet, sour, bitter, and umami.

SEAFOOD DINNER IDEAS FOR SPRING

If you’re tired of the same old chicken and pork, add some seafood into the mix! These salmon and shrimp recipes are filling but not heavy, perfect for easy springtime meals when you’re craving something different.

Lemon Pepper Salmon

Flaky fish meets a thick crust of tangy, smoky seasoning in this hot smoked salmon recipe. Made with just 4 ingredients, it’s one of the simplest spring dinner ideas on this list!

Orange Glazed Salmon

This one skillet recipe delivers perfect seared fillets coated in a sticky-sweet citrus glaze. Pomegranate arils add gorgeous color and juicy pops of tart flavor for a dish that’s dinner-party worthy but weeknight easy.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp

An absolute favorite that pairs well with sides and combines well with other recipes like lemon pasta. Juicy shrimp pan sears quickly in a bright, buttery garlic sauce. Honestly, it takes longer to prep than it does to cook!

SOUPS

Springtime brings warmer weather, but there are still plenty of blustery days that make you want to hunker down at home. These cozy spring dinner ideas make the most of garden vegetables without demanding too much effort.

Creamy Tomato Bisque Soup

Made with whole tomatoes, rich cream, and a hint of peppery heat, this 25-minute recipe delivers big flavor in a simple bowl. Delicious with grilled cheese or a crisp salad for a light, springtime meal.

Vegetable Tortellini Soup

This one rides the line of cozy but light in just the right way. A basil-forward broth envelops tender, cheese-stuffed pasta and colorful veggies, while fire-roasted tomatoes bring that “simmered all day” flavor.

Chicken Vegetable Soup

Rotisserie chicken, frozen veggies, and pasta deliver satisfying results in an easy stovetop recipe. This soup is forgiving too, so you can use up what you have on hand for something equally delicious.

Homemade Sausage and Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Italian sausage, pillowy gnocchi, vegetables, and savory tomato broth come together in the best way. One of our favorite 30 minute spring dinner recipe ideas for a light lunch or dinner… especially with crusty bread to soak up every last drop!

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Originally published April 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Spring Dinner Ideas appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

Best Brownie Recipes

We love brownies so much that we literally taught a Brownie Class in our Cooking Club. That’s not dramatic. That’s documented.

We spent an entire session breaking down fudgy vs. cakey texture, arguing about shiny tops, layering candy bars into batter, and testing just how far you can push a classic brownie before it becomes completely over-the-top.

And somewhere along the way, our brownie collection exploded.

If you’re looking for creative brownie variations, different brownie ideas, or just a reason to bake something chocolatey and indulgent, you’re in the right place. 

From classic fudgy brownies to peanut butter swirls, loaded candy bar layers, fruity twists, and even brownie-inspired desserts, this is the full lineup.

No boring brownies allowed! Let’s get into it.

CLASSIC BROWNIE VARIATIONS

This is where every great brownie collection starts. Rich chocolate flavor, crackly tops, dense centers, and that perfect balance between structure and melt-in-your-mouth texture. 

If you’re craving dependable, chocolate-forward brownies, start here.

Blue Ribbon Fudgy Brownies (Lazy Day Recipe)

Deep, glossy, crackled tops with centers that lean almost truffle-like. These brownies are rich without being heavy and slice cleanly while staying intensely fudgy. If someone asks you for “a real brownie,” this is the best recipe for brownies from scratch.

Double Chocolate Brownies

Chocolate inside the batter and layered throughout for bold cocoa depth in every bite. These strike that sweet spot between chewy edges and soft centers, perfect for serious chocolate lovers.

Sheet Pan Brownies

Big batch energy without sacrificing texture. These bake evenly, hold their structure beautifully, and are one of the best brownies recipes for parties, bake sales, or when you need a crowd-pleasing classic.

Starbucks Double Chocolate Brownie Copycat

Dense, indulgent, café-style brownies with a rich, almost fudge-bar texture. Clean edges, deep chocolate flavor, and just enough structure to feel bakery-level.

3 Ingredient Brownies

Simple ingredients. Shockingly good results. These are perfect for last-minute cravings when you want something rich and chocolatey without overthinking it.

LOADED & CANDY BAR BROWNIE IDEAS

This is where brownies stop behaving.

Layers of caramel, peanut butter, cookies, frostings, and candy bars turn a simple pan of brownies into something unapologetically indulgent. These variations are bold, textured, and designed to impress.

Slutty Brownies (Oreo Cookie Brownies)

A layered masterpiece of cookie dough, Oreo cookies, and brownie batter baked into one dramatic square. The textures stay distinct while blending perfectly in each bite.

Decadent Snickers Brownies

Caramel ribbons, roasted peanuts, and chocolate layered into a fudgy base. Sweet, salty, chewy, and crunchy all at once.

Reese’s Brownies with Peanut Butter Fudge Frosting

Deep chocolate brownies topped with thick, smooth peanut butter fudge frosting. Rich, creamy, and balanced with just enough salt to keep it from being overly sweet.

Ooey Gooey Millionaire Brownies

Shortbread base, thick caramel center, and fudgy brownie top. Three distinct layers that deliver serious texture contrast and indulgence. One of the best brownie recipes when your’e craving indulgence.

Loaded Brownies with Butterfinger Frosting

Crunchy candy bits paired with soft brownie centers and creamy frosting. Playful, sweet, and absolutely not subtle.

PEANUT BUTTER BROWNIE VARIATIONS

Chocolate and peanut butter deserve their own category. These brownies lean fully into that sweet-and-salty magic, with swirls, layers, and frosting that take things to another level.

Simple Peanut Butter Fudge Chocolate Brownies

Swirled peanut butter folded into rich chocolate batter for balanced flavor and creamy texture in every square.

Easy Buckeye Brownies

Inspired by the classic chocolate-peanut butter candy, these layer smooth peanut butter over a fudgy brownie base for bold flavor contrast.

Best Fudgy Reese’s Brownie Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

A thick brownie base topped with peanut butter frosting that sets beautifully and slices clean. Dramatic, indulgent, and worth every bite.

Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies

All the flavor of a brownie with the portability of a cookie. Chewy centers, slightly crisp edges, and strong peanut butter notes.

FRUITY & FLAVOR-TWIST BROWNIES

Chocolate loves contrast. Citrus, mint, cherry, and spice add brightness and complexity that elevate even the best homemade brownie recipes beyond basic chocolate squares.

Best Lemon Brownies (With Lemony Glaze)

Bright, citrus-forward bars with a soft texture and vibrant glaze. A completely different direction from classic chocolate brownies… and just as satisfying.

Fudgy Orange Brownies

Chocolate and orange paired in rich, fudgy form. Bold citrus notes cut through deep cocoa for a balanced finish.

Black Forest Cherry Brownies

Juicy cherries baked into a rich chocolate base for bursts of fruit against dense, fudgy texture.

Mexican Hot Chocolate Brownies

Warm cinnamon and subtle spice layered into chocolate batter for depth and warmth.

Mint Chocolate Brownies

Cool mint paired with rich chocolate for a clean, refreshing contrast. One of the best brownies recipes for holidays.

Boozy Baileys Brownies

Creamy Irish liqueur folded into chocolate batter for a smooth, slightly sophisticated twist.

HEALTHIER & ALTERNATIVE BROWNIE IDEAS

Different ingredients. Same chocolate payoff. These variations experiment with alternative bases while still delivering rich flavor and satisfying texture.

Fudgy Walnut Black Bean Brownies

Deeply chocolatey with a surprisingly smooth texture. A creative way to add richness without traditional flour, and one of the best brownie recipes for sneaking in some protein.

Fudgy Sweet Potato Brownies

Naturally moist with subtle sweetness and dense texture. A flavorful spin that still satisfies chocolate cravings.

No Bake Brownie Bites (Keto)

No oven required. Rich, chocolate-forward bites that are quick to assemble and perfect for portion control.

BROWNIE-INSPIRED DESSERTS

At some point, brownies stopped being just brownies. We turned them into cookies, cupcakes, cheesecakes, cakes, shakes, and more. 

Because once you have a good brownie base, the possibilities expand fast!

Brownie Cupcakes with Strawberry Frosting

Soft brownie-style cupcakes topped with sweet berry frosting for color and contrast.

Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownie Icebox Cheesecake

Layered brownie and cheesecake textures combined into one chilled dessert.

Easy Cosmic Brownie Cookies

Brownie mix transformed into chewy cookies topped with colorful candy-coated chips.

Buckeye Brownie Cookies (Crumbl Copycat)

Peanut butter and chocolate cookie hybrids inspired by bakery favorites.

Brownie Café Milkshake

Thick, creamy milkshake blended with brownie pieces for a rich, indulgent dessert drink.

Brownies & Cream Iced Coffee Shake

Chocolate meets coffee in a dessert-inspired shake.

Chocolate Lovers Brownie Biscotti

Crisp biscotti packed with brownie flavor. Perfect for dipping into coffee.

What Are the Different Types of Brownies?

There are several classic categories when it comes to the best recipe for brownies from scratch.

• Fudgy Brownies: Dense, rich, higher fat content.
  
• Cakey Brownies: Lighter texture with more structure.
  
• Chewy Brownies: Balanced between dense and structured.
  
• Loaded Brownies: Candy bars, frostings, and layers added.
  
• Swirled Brownies: Cheesecake, peanut butter, or caramel folded into batter.
  
• Brownie Mashups: Cookies, cakes, shakes, and other dessert hybrids.
  

Each variation changes the ratio, texture, or additions… but the chocolate base remains the heart of it.

Donna’s Final Thoughts

We didn’t set out to build a brownie archive. It just happened.

One award-winning classic recipe turned into variations. Variations turned into layers. Layers turned into mashups. 

And before we knew it, we were teaching a brownie class and debating texture like it was a competitive sport.

If you’re looking for creative brownie ideas, new ways to make brownies feel exciting again, or simply the best homemade brownie recipes to impress… start anywhere on this list. Just don’t expect to stop at one.

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Originally published March 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Brownie Variations (Classic to Over-the-Top) appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS 3 INGREDIENT DESSERT

• Only three ingredients. Truly.
  
• No baking, no eggs, no fuss.
  
• Light, creamy texture that slices clean.
  
• Perfect base for endless toppings.
  
• Works with or without a crust.

3 Ingredient Cheesecake

We are big cheesecake people around here. Always have been. So much so that I’ve got dozens of cheesecake and cheesecake-inspired recipes up on the site!

Baked, no-bake, layered, swirled, scooped, frozen… if there’s a cheesecake angle, we’ve probably tried it.

This 3 ingredient dessert lives in its own category. It’s the cheesecake you make when you want something creamy and satisfying without committing to a whole project.

You beat. You pour. You chill. And somehow that’s enough.

It’s soft but structured. Sweet but not cloying. The kind of dessert that makes people ask, “Wait… that’s it?” Yes. That’s it. And it works every single time.

Another of our favorites is our Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake, with a rich chocolate ribbon swirled through an absolutely creamy cheesecake!

Can’t get enough of cheesecake desserts? These pecan pie cheesecake bars and Dirt Pudding Cheesecake Bars are absolute crowd favorites!

Or our glorious Cherry Cheesecake Lush Dessert!

And if you’re looking for a few more easy 3-ingredient desserts that are no-bake, try white chocolate Oreo fudge or chocolate peanut butter ice cream next!

For a lighter twist on this classic, try our keto cheesecake fluff — creamy, dreamy, and totally low carb!

INGREDIENT NOTES

• Cream Cheese: Fully softened matters. This is what gives you that smooth, lump-free base.
  
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides volume and lightness when whipped into the cream cheese.
  
• Powdered Sugar: Dissolves instantly and keeps the texture silky.
  
• Graham Cracker Crust (Optional): Great for slicing, but totally optional if you want a bowl-and-spoon situation.

VARIATIONS

Berry-Topped: Finish with fresh berries or a spoonful of fruit compote.

Chocolate: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or fold in mini chocolate chips.

Nutty: Top with toasted or candied pecans, pistachios, or macadamia nuts.

Caramel: Swirl caramel sauce on top before chilling.

Oreo: Use an Oreo cookie crust or fold crushed cookies into the filling.

Citrus: Include lemon or orange zest in the cream cheese mixture.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Slice and plate 3 ingredient no bake cheesecake straight from the fridge.
  
• Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel just before serving.
  
• Top bowls of filling with fresh berries or chocolate shavings.
  
• Skip the crust and serve as a dessert dip with fruit, cookies, or graham crackers.
  
• Create a cheesecake topping station so guests can customize their slice!

PHILADELPHIA 3 INGREDIENT CHEESECAKE NO-BAKE FAQ

This Philadelphia 3 ingredient cheesecake no-bake recipe works because it relies on fat structure instead of heat.

Beating softened cream cheese smooths the fat and disperses moisture evenly, creating a stable base.

Heavy cream adds volume when whipped into the mixture, trapping air and giving the cheesecake its light texture.

Powdered sugar dissolves immediately, which prevents graininess and helps maintain that silky mouthfeel. Chilling firms the fats back up, causing the cheesecake to set without baking.

The result is a dessert that holds its shape through refrigeration alone, with a texture that’s creamy, sliceable, and consistent every time.

TOOLS NEEDED

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: You need enough power to fully smooth the cream cheese.
  
• Large Mixing Bowl: Gives room for volume as the cheesecake filling thickens.
  
• Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the bowl.
  
• 9-inch Pie Dish (Optional): Only if you’re using a crust.

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy No Bake Recipes

Easy No Bake Oreo Dessert Recipe (7 Ingredients)

Easy No Bake Avalanche Cookies Recipe + Video

No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake Recipe

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake (No Bake Recipe) + Video

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3 Ingredient No Bake Cheesecake

This 3 Ingredient No Bake Cheesecake is as easy as it sounds. It comes together in minutes, so the hardest part is waiting for it to set!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Method No Bake

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

chill time 3 hours hours

Total Time 3 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 8 (1 slice)

Calories 515cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (2 blocks)
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 9-inch graham cracker pie crust, store-bought or homemade (optional)

Instructions

• BEAT CREAM CHEESE: Add 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature to a large mixing bowl. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until fluffy and smooth with no lumps.
• ADD REMAINING INGREDIENTS: With the mixer running on low, gradually add 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream and 1 cup powdered sugar. Increase speed to medium and mix until fully combined and thick, scraping down the sides as needed.
• FILL CRUST: Pour the cheesecake mixture into 1 9-inch graham cracker pie crust, store-bought or homemade (optional), or leave it in the bowl if serving crust-free. Spread the top evenly.
• CHILL: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, until the cheesecake is firm and set.
• SERVE: Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

Serving Ideas: Serve as-is or top with fresh berries, chopped strawberries, or caramel sauce.

Storage: Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 to 4 days.

Texture Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.

Crust Option: This cheesecake is just as good served without a crust as a creamy dessert dip.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 515cal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 41g | Saturated Fat: 23g | Cholesterol: 108mg | Sodium: 290mg | Sugar: 22g | Fiber: 0.4g | Calcium: 91mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published January 2024, updated and republished January 2026

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post 3 Ingredient No Bake Cheesecake appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

When you need an easy to make dessert for a potluck or church potlucks, holiday side dish, or summer cookout, no bake desserts are a great choice.

They curb that sweet craving, and are a simple quick treat. 

It’s a family favorite in my house, and for good reason. Not only is it a no bake dessert – but this easy recipe uses basic ingredients that are simple to pick up at the grocery store! 

And the best part? This easy Oreo fluff recipe taste like it took a lot of time, but your secret is safe with me! 

Sweet, light desserts like Jello salad are popular and delicious, but our favorite dessert recipe involves Oreo® cookies!

Every time I’ve ever made this Oreo fluff salad recipe, it’s been a huge hit. 

People tell me that it’s one of their favorite recipes that I make, and I’m totally fine with that because fluff salads are a breeze to whip up! 

The printable recipe card below has all the details on how to make this sweet dessert. 

Oreo Fluff Recipe

Sweet and creamy is an understatement for this delicious Oreo cookie salad dessert! 

Our Oreo salad is made of whipped cream, instant pudding mix, mini marshmallows, and crushed Oreos.

Want something a little more refreshing? This pineapple pina colada cheesecake salad is a favorite, as well as this circus cookie fluff, and this pistachio fluff Watergate salad especially during the summer months for potlucks!

Or, for a cookie-inspired dessert similar to this Oreo fluff dessert, make a cookies and cream trifle.

If you love a creamy no bake fluff dessert, you have to try this keto cheesecake fluff — all the indulgence with none of the guilt!

Oreo Cookie Salad Ingredient Notes

• Cream Cheese – Either a softened block or tub of cream cheese will work. 
  
  Whipped cream cheese is not a good option; the air whipped into the mixture prevents the dessert from setting up properly.
  
• Instant Pudding Mix – Rather than the vanilla instant pudding called for in most fluff recipes, we use cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix. 
  
  The combination of cream cheese and pudding mix gives the Oreo cookie salad a creamy cheesecake flavor and consistency.
  
• Heavy Whipping Cream – You’ll use one half of the heavy cream to thicken the cheesecake pudding mix. 
  
  The other half is for making homemade whipped cream. Using a whipped topping like Cool Whip is an option, but the Oreo salad will have a much softer consistency.

Be sure to watch our video in this post to see how easy this no bake Oreo fluff dessert is to make.

Oreo Fluff Recipe Tips

• Quick Cookie Crushing Hack

If you have a food processor, use it to crush the cookies. Just be sure to use the pulse function so you end up with chunks instead of crumbs.

If you don’t have a food processor, place the cookies into a zip top bag and use a rolling pin or your hands to crush them.

• Chill the mixing bowl.

Metal retains cold better than glass, so if you have one, use a metal mixing bowl to combine the ingredients.

For the best results, pop it in the freezer for a few minutes before getting started.

• Don’t forget the garnish!

Set aside a few cookies for garnishing the Oreo fluff dessert. Use them whole, or turn them into crumbs to dust over the top of the dessert.

• Use Different Cookies

Feel free to swap out the chocolate sandwich cookies for another flavor. Mint Oreos would be super fun for the Oreo crumbs, and an easy swap to regular Oreos.

Try all the flavors and see which crushed Oreo cookies you like best. 

Any crunchy sandwich cookie with a creamy filling works great, like our peanut butter sandwich cookies. Soft cookies are not a good choice; they become too soggy. 

Fluff Salad FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Cheesecake Salad Recipes

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Print

Easy Oreo Fluff No Bake Dessert Recipe + Video

Our Oreo fluff is a no bake potluck dessert that tastes like Oreo cheesecake! Make a bowl of fluffy Oreo salad with just 7 ingredients!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Method Mixed

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 8 cups

Calories 743cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese softened
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3.4 ounce package of instant cheesecake pudding mix unprepared
• 3 cups heavy whipping cream divided
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups miniature marshmallows
• 14.3 ounce package Oreo cookies

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and vanilla extract until fluffy.
• Add the cheesecake pudding mixture and beat until fully combined (mixture will be chunky).
• With the mixer (or hand beater) running on low speed, slowly drizzle 1 ½ cups of the heavy whipping cream into the cream cheese mixture. Beat well between the addition of small amounts (add only 1 tablespoon at a time).
• Add powdered sugar to the cheesecake mixture and continue beating until fully combined.
• In a separate mixing bowl, beat remaining 1 ½ cups of heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

  Use a spatula to gently fold the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture until fully incorporated.
• In a large Ziploc bag, place most of the Oreo cookies, reserving a few whole cookies to use as garnish on the finished salad.
• Use a rolling pin to crush the Oreos into pieces (some can be larger chunks and some can be small crumbles).
• Add miniature marshmallows and crushed Oreos to the cheesecake mixture and stir gently to combine.
• Transfer mixture to a serving bowl, garnish with reserved Oreos and miniature marshmallows and serve immediately.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 743cal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 52g | Saturated Fat: 29g | Cholesterol: 129mg | Sodium: 487mg | Sugar: 45g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 98mg | Iron: 6mg

Originally published June 2021, updated and republished November 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Easy Oreo Fluff No Bake Dessert Recipe + Video appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS IKEA SWEDISH MEATBALLS RECIPE

• Tender and juicy meatballs made from scratch.
  
• Creamy, velvety gravy that clings to every bite.
  
• Perfect for family dinners or entertaining.
  
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals.
  
• Just like the restaurant favorite… but better!

IKEA Swedish Meatballs

I mean… what’s the point of even going if you don’t grab the Swedish meatballs at IKEA??? I used to walk right past the flat-packs and lighting aisles just to get my hands on a plate of these little beauties.

But here’s the thing: once I cracked the recipe, I never looked back. These Swedish meatballs are tender, juicy, and that sauce? Lick-the-plate good.

Forget the furniture assembly headache. This is the best part of IKEA, no Allen wrench required.

(And if you’re on a copycat recipe kick, don’t miss our Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana or these buttery Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits.)

INGREDIENT NOTES

• Ground Beef & Pork: The combo keeps the meatballs juicy and flavorful. Using only beef will make them drier.
  
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain, not seasoned, for this Ikea meatball recipe. Panko works if you want a slightly lighter texture.
  
• Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion adds sweetness, but mince finely so it blends into the meat. Garlic powder can be substituted if needed.
  
• Cream Sauce: Heavy cream gives the sauce body and silkiness. Whole milk or half & half will make it lighter, but won’t be as luxurious.
  
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami depth to IKEA Swedish meatballs sauce, so don’t skip it!
  
• Dijon Mustard: Balances the richness with a subtle tang. Yellow mustard works in a pinch, but Dijon gives the most authentic flavor.

VARIATIONS

Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs with finely ground pork rinds or almond flour.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the meatball mix.

Cheesy Upgrade: Stir ¼ cup grated parmesan into the meat mixture.

Turkey Meatballs: Use ground turkey instead of beef/pork for a lighter version.

Keto-Friendly: Serve over mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Classic Pairing: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and a spoonful of lingonberry jam.
  
• Pasta Night: Toss with buttered egg noodles for a Swedish spin on spaghetti and meatballs.
  
• Cozy Combo: Add a side of roasted broccoli or green beans for balance.
  
• Shortcut Side: Pair with store-bought potato cakes for a no-fuss dinner.
  
• Wine Pairing: A glass of Pinot Noir or Chardonnay brings out the creamy sauce.

SWEDISH MEATBALLS IKEA FAQ

I’ve made a lot of meatballs in my day (seriously… I think I have 30+ meatball recipes on the site!), but these Swedish beauties are special.

The secret isn’t just the beef-pork combo; it’s the sauce science. When butter, flour, and cream emulsify together, they create a silky gravy that hugs every bite.

The soy sauce sneaks in umami while the Dijon balances it with just the right tang.

After testing this Ikea Swedish meatballs recipe over and over, I can honestly say it’s every bit as crave-worthy as the original.

TOOLS NEEDED

• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the meatball mixture.
  
• Skillet: For browning meatballs and making sauce.
  
• Oven-Safe Dish: To finish baking the meatballs.
  
• Whisk: Essential for lump-free sauce.
  
• Baking Sheet: For easy transfer to the oven.

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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🍔 Copycat Creations Vol 1
Craving your favorite restaurant meals at home? This exclusive ebook has the boldest, most requested copycat recipes — from fast food faves to sit-down classics.

👉 Buy your copy now and start cooking the meals you love!

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IKEA SWEDISH MEATBALLS COPYCAT RECIPE

These IKEA Swedish Meatballs are a copycat recipe of the famous restaurant cafeteria favorite. Tender, juicy, and smothered in creamy gravy!

Course Main

Cuisine Swedish

Method Oven

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Chill Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 2 hours hours 45 minutes minutes

Servings 16 meatballs

Calories 191cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound lean ground beef I use 88% lean
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 small yellow onion finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 clove garlic minced (about 1 teaspoon)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs about 3.5 ounces
• 1 large egg
• 5 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1 teaspoon oil vegetable or canola
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1.4 ounces
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1.4 ounces
• 5 ounces vegetable stock about 2/3 cup
• 2/3 cup beef stock 5 ounces
• 2/3 cup heavy cream 5 ounces
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

• Mix the Meatball Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound lean ground beef and 1/2 pound ground pork. Use clean hands or a fork to gently break up any lumps.
• Add Flavor: Stir in 1 small yellow onion, 1 clove garlic, 1 cup plain breadcrumbs, and 1 large egg until just combined. Pour in 5 tablespoons whole milk, then season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper. Mix until uniform, but don’t overwork the meat.
• Shape and Chill: Roll mixture into small round meatballs (about 1 inch). Place on a plate, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up.
• Brown the Meatballs: Preheat oven to 350°F. Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, add meatballs in batches and brown on all sides, about 5–7 minutes total.
• Bake Until Tender: Transfer browned meatballs to an oven-safe dish, cover, and bake for 30 minutes, or until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
• Make the Sauce: Melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter in the same skillet used for the meatballs. Whisk in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and nutty. Slowly whisk in 5 ounces vegetable stock and 2/3 cup beef stock, followed by 2/3 cup heavy cream, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
• Serve: Spoon sauce generously over the meatballs. Pair with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or lingonberry jam for the classic IKEA experience.

Video

Notes

Make-Ahead Tips: Meatballs can be shaped up to 24 hours in advance. Keep covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Storage: Store cooked meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs without sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in sauce.

Reheating: Gently reheat meatballs in sauce on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream if sauce thickens too much.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatball | Calories: 191cal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 57mg | Sodium: 196mg | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published May 2020, updated and republished October 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post IKEA Swedish Meatballs (Copycat) + Video appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

It’s time to put a fun spin on family dinner. This is one flavorful recipe that the entire family will love, and this cheesy taco mac dish is certain to become a new staple for dinner. 

It’s a super delicious Tex-Mex twist and a great recipe for busy families to whip up and enjoy. 

All you need are a few basic ingredients to get started, and this skillet taco mac recipe will be ready to eat in no time at all. 

It’s safe to say that this dish offers the perfect blend of noodles and meat combined with other classic flavors. 

It was a huge hit the first time that I made it, and everyone told me that they loved the fun twist of flavors. 

The great part about making this delicious dinner is that you need only simple ingredients. Why not try it out on the next Taco Tuesday and see what the rave about this delicious dish is all about? 

And yes, leftover taco mac is delicious reheated, so you can’t go wrong with the big serving size! 

Check out the recipe card below to gather what is needed to make this Taco Mac n Cheese recipe, then head to the grocery store to grab it all! 

Taco Mac and Cheese

Make a complete meal by combing two of your favorite comfort food dishes into one incredible mac and cheese taco bake!

It has plenty of protein, and you can add extra veggies with a variety of toppings.

Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese is another unique twist to the classic macaroni dish. Caramelized onions and sliced peppers make it taste just like the famous sandwich!

If you love this casserole, our Chicken Taco Casserole is another must-try! You get the bold taco flavor you love in this mac n’ cheese. but layered with tender chicken and bubbling cheese in a casserole dish!

For another spicy mac and cheese recipe, try my Jalapeno Popper Bacon Mac and Cheese. It comes together in just 30 minutes and has an irresistible flavor.

Or, make my Cheese Lovers Mac and Cheese With Broccoli for the easiest and cheesiest meal ever! Add some rotisserie or leftover chicken to make it even heartier.

And if you’re looking for a healthier, keto-friendly option, try my Low Carb Meatball Casserole.

How To Make Taco Mac and Cheese Bake

While this taco mac recipe does require a bit of prep work, it comes together quickly and goes from oven to table in under an hour!

Start by making the pasta according to the package instructions. While that’s cooking, brown the ground beef and stir in the tomatoes and seasoning.

In a separate skillet, make the cheese sauce. Then, combine everything together in a casserole dish and bake!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Taco Seasoning – Use a packet from your favorite brand or make it yourself with this homemade taco seasoning recipe.
  
• Rotel – Any can of diced tomatoes with green chiles will work if you can’t find this particular brand.
  
• Half and Half – This is simply a blend of equal parts milk and heavy cream. If needed, you can just use whole milk — just know that the sauce won’t be as thick.
  
• Cheese – Colby, Pepper Jack, or a blend of Mexican cheeses would all taste great. It’s cheesy mac, so have fun with the additions. 
  
  I don’t really recommend using Velveeta cheese because I like the other cheese textures better. 
  
• Meat – If you want to use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of the beef, you can easily make the swap. Picky eaters won’t even notice the difference. 

Taco Mac Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Salt Your Pasta Water: Always use plenty of salt so the noodles are well seasoned and less likely to stick together. 
  
  Also, bring the water to a boil before adding the salt, or it will take much longer to heat.
  
• Shred Cheese By Hand: For a smoother sauce, be sure to shred your cheese by hand instead of using pre-bagged shreds. Not only will the cheese melt better, but you’ll get a bolder flavor too!
  
• Warm The Half & Half: While it isn’t necessary to heat the dairy itself, it’s a good idea to measure it out and let it sit on the counter while you get everything else started. 
  
  This removes the chill and prevents any clumping when making the sauce.
  
• Type of Noodle: I personally love elbow macaroni noodles, but you can use any type of pasta you want!

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

• 9×13 Baking Dish – This set is one of my favorites! The 9×13 is perfect for casseroles and the smaller size is awesome for making half a casserole recipe.
• Large Pot and Strainer for the macaroni
• Heavy Bottom Skillet – To help the sauce cook evenly, a wide skillet works best.
• Box Grater – As much as I love buying shredded cheese for convenience, freshly grated cheese melts down so much better and creates a smoother sauce.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Allow the mac and cheese taco bake to cool completely, then cover and store in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

Reheat in the oven or warm individual portions in a pan on the stove. Add a splash of milk or half and half as needed for extra moisture.

Taco Macaroni Casserole FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Best Taco Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe + Video

Taco Mac and Cheese has seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese sauce over tender pasta. Make this Mexican-inspired recipe for taco night!

Course Main

Cuisine Mexican

Method Oven, Stovetop

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 45 minutes minutes

Servings 16

Calories 445cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 16 ounces macaroni noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• ounce taco seasoning
• 10 ounce can of Rotel drained well
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups half and half
• 4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese divided
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
• Taco Toppings such as tortilla strips diced tomatoes, diced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapenos

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside. Cook the noodles per the directions on the back of the box and drain well, set aside.
• In a heavy bottom skillet over medium-high heat brown the ground beef. Drain any excess fat or water off of the beef and add the taco seasoning and Rotel, stir it in well, cook an additional 2 minutes, and set aside.
• In a heavy bottom skillet over medium-low heat, add the butter and melt. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and flour to the pan and whisk to mix into the butter. Cook for two minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Slowly add the half and half to the pan whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer to thicken. Take off the heat and add 3 cups of the Monterey Jack cheese and 1 cup of the sharp cheddar cheese, whisk to combine and melt the cheese into the sauce.
• Mix the cheese sauce with the noodles and the ground beef mixture, pour everything into the baking dish. Smooth out the top so it cooks evenly.
• Add the remaining cheeses on top of the casserole. Bake 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Serve with your favorite taco toppings!

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 445cal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 87mg | Sodium: 322mg | Sugar: 4g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 393mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published November 2020, updated and republished October 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Best Taco Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe + Video appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

Using the air fryer is a great way to make a foolproof recipe. You’ll love the tender chicken that you can then pair with your favorite sides. 

Not only do you get away from using a ton of vegetable oil for frying, but these golden brown chicken breasts cook up perfectly every single time. 

Perfectly seasoned chicken breasts like this really are an easy meal! It’s the perfect way to make a healthy meal, loaded with juicy chicken.

I’ve been using my trusty air fryer for years because of this recipe, and I’ve yet to be disappointed.

What I also love about this juicy chicken breast recipe is that I can vary the seasoning blend for fun new flavors. Sometimes, I’ll add Italian seasoning, while other times, I’ll change the spice mix to something different.

Just coat with an even layer and let the hot air of the air fryer do its thing. In my opinion, it’s so much better than cooking the chicken pieces in the regular oven! 

The versatility makes this such an easy weeknight dinner, and I’m all about that! To find out how to make these juicy air fryer chicken breasts, see the recipe card below! 

If you love cooking chicken in the air fryer, our Air Fryer Chicken Recipes roundup has even more crispy, juicy ideas to add to your weeknight rotation.

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Breast

Using my air fryer is one of my favorite ways to cut the fat in some of my meals. Have you had a chance to try any of my other air fryer recipes?

You will love the taste of air fryer fried chicken. It lets you enjoy the taste of fried food with a fraction of the fat and calories. How about an air fried turkey breast that is full of flavor!

If you need side dish ideas for your chicken dinner, why not try my air fryer baked potato.  It has crispy skin without any oil and it’s fluffy on the inside!

Air fried frozen French fries come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Make the recipe and enjoy comfort food without the fat!

If you’re looking for a more keto-friendly option, might I suggest my Low carb chicken nuggets?

Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe Notes

It only takes a few minutes to air fry boneless chicken, and it’s incredibly juicy and tender — perfect for a healthy summer meal.

• Meal prep. You can prep the chicken breasts and use the chicken meat in your favorite chicken recipes throughout the week.
  
• Don’t skip the oil. Using olive oil as part of the marinade helps make your air fryer boneless chicken breasts slightly crispy on the outside. 
  
  And, it’s an easy way to make the herbs and spices stick to the chicken.
  
• Marinate the chicken. Before roasting chicken breast in the air fryer, it’s a good idea to marinate it. It deepens the flavor and makes them extra juicy. 

Cooking time and temp for air fryer chicken breasts

How long you need to air fry boneless chicken breasts really depends on how large they are.

So, use this handy guide to figure out how long to cook boneless chicken breast in the air fryer!

Here are the cooking time and temp for boneless chicken breast in an air fryer. The times are an average, and are based on the total weight of your food.

Air fryers cook differently depending on the model, so be sure to use a meat thermometer to test for doneness.

• 6 oz at 360° for 15 minutes
• 8 oz at 360° for 18 minutes
• 10 oz at 360° for 20 minutes
• 12 oz at 360° for 22 minutes

It’s important to always use a meat thermometer rather than relying solely on cooking time.

Just place the tip of the meat thermometer into the thickest portion of the breast.

All poultry should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165F according to the USDA.

Boneless Chicken Breast In Air Fryer FAQs

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Juicy Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Breast Recipe

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Breast is easy to make, and a healthy way to cook chicken to juicy perfection. Make this recipe for flavorful boneless chicken!

Course Main

Cuisine American

Method Air Fryer

Prep Time 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time 16 minutes minutes

Chill Time 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 46 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 257cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano minced or 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley minced and lightly packed or 4 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/4 cup fresh basil minced and lightly packed or 4 teaspoons dried basil
• 4 – 8 oz boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil in a spray bottle

Instructions

• In a large bowl, whisk together the ingredients for marinade.
• Add the chicken breasts to gallon size resealable bag, pour the marinade over chicken.
• Press out the air and close the bag.
• Chill in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours.
• Remove from the refrigerator and set at room temperature, 20-30 minutes.
• Preheat air fryer at 370°F for 5 minutes.
• Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, leaving room between the breasts so they cook evenly.
• Spray each chicken breast with olive oil and cook for 10 minutes.
• Remove the basket and flip breasts over, spray again with olive oil and cook for another 6-8 minutes, chicken is done when the internal temperature is 160°F when checked with an instant read thermometer.
• Remove from the air fryer basket and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh oregano, parsley or basil

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 257cal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 54mg | Sodium: 502mg | Sugar: 2g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 72mg | Iron: 2mg

Originally published August 2020, updated and republished October 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Juicy Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Breast Recipe appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

In my opinion, this is one of the best ways to cook juicy chicken thighs.

Using the air fryer basket is great for giving quick cook times, and I love how these crispy air fryer chicken thighs turn out with this easy recipe. 

Cooking chicken thighs in the hot air of an air fryer is so simple to do! I literally get the juiciest chicken and best results every time – I’m so thankful for air frying, my air frying recipes are my favorite! 

My entire family agrees which is why we literally never have leftovers! Dark meat is my favorite, these skin-on thighs crisp up beautifully making the best results ever!

You can pair these air-fried chicken thighs with creamy mashed potatoes, cooked sweet potatoes, or even some simple steamed veggies or a side salad for busy weeknights. 

Trust me when I say that this is an easy way (and maybe the best way!) to get perfectly cooked chicken thighs every single time. This easy air-fried chicken thighs recipe is sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Chicken is on the menu at least a few times a week in our house… it’s so versatile and easy to make, plus it’s one of the more wholesome meat options out there.

There are seriously so many ways to prepare chicken. Use it as a blank canvas and get creative! This recipe makes the best juicy chicken thighs.

Some of my go-to’s include this unique Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs, Tuscan Chicken Shepherd’s Pie, classic chicken noodle soup, creamy chicken and dumplings… the list goes on!

There’s also my keto-friendly Low carb chicken nuggets as an easy recipe option!

I also can’t forget about my favorite fried chicken recipes! 

Crispy and crunchy French fried onion chicken and this Olive Garden-inspired crispy chicken fritta are both super tasty. 

Today, I want to introduce a super simple way to make fried chicken: with your air fryer! 

These air fryer chicken thighs are totally delectable, easy to make, and don’t require a lot of excess oil, like traditionally fried recipes. 

They’re also made from scratch, so you know exactly what you’re feeding your family. Score!

Use this chicken thighs air fryer recipe the next time you aren’t sure what to serve for dinner. Thank me later!!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs – I almost always use skin-on-bone-in chicken thighs for this chicken thighs air fryer recipe, making the most juicy air fryer chicken thighs. 
  
  They’re easiest to find, and I like the flavor. That said, you can also use boneless! Opt for whatever’s easiest for you, and make sure to adjust the time and temperature if needed.
  
• Cornstarch – My secret weapon for extra crispy chicken thighs in the air fryer! 
  
  Cornstarch will absorb any excess moisture in the poultry, plus it improves the overall browning process. I don’t recommend skipping it!
  
• Seasonings – I’m using my preferred mixture of Cajun seasoning, onion powder, and ground black pepper. 
  
  But, don’t be afraid to experiment! Feel free to customize the spice level or use a milder alternative like Ranch dressing mix, Italian seasoning, Lemon Pepper Seasoning, BBQ rub, or your favorite.
  
• Light Brown Sugar – Another key component of the seasoning mix! I love the way the warm, molasses-y sweetness plays off of the heat in the Cajun spice blend. 

Tips and Tricks to Make Crispy Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

• Preheat for extra crispiness.

If you’ve been air frying for a while now, you’ve probably noticed that some recipes require preheating while others do not. 

This crispy chicken thighs air fryer recipe is one that definitely benefits from some solid preheating!

When you put your chicken thighs into your preheated air fryer the chicken will start to cook immediately, which will result in some really crispy thighs!

• Thoroughly dry the chicken thighs.

Take the extra time to pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel before adding your seasoning. 

Removing any excess moisture helps the seasonings adhere better and promotes a crispy texture during air frying. 

If you haven’t figured it out yet, this air fryer chicken thighs recipe is all about crunchy results!

• Not all air fryers are created equal.

The time and temperatures that are listed on the recipe card may need to be adjusted, depending on the size of your chicken thighs.

As another note, I came up with the time and temp that works for making chicken thighs in the air fryer for my specific model. 

Yours may be different — play around with it to determine what works best for you.

Prep Ahead

• Preheat your air fryer
• Create your custom seasoning mix if using
• Pat the chicken thighs dry

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

• Air Fryer – Remember, different brands and sizes may require different cooking times, so be familiar with your model and make adjustments as needed.
• Mixing Bowls – I like to have a variety of sizes on hand, and this set has them all.
• Tongs – I love this set of 3, and I use every pair of them. They are so handy and grip amazingly well!
• Digital meat thermometer – The easiest way to check the temp on the thighs. Not only will you know when it’s safe to eat, but you can make sure it’s not overcooked and dried out as well.

Serving Suggestions

Keep things classic and serve your chicken thighs in air fryer with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans! 

Or, go the lighter route and pair with a fresh salad and a side of garlic bread.

Roasted vegetables, coleslaw, rice, corn on the cob, macaroni and cheese, or a caprese salad would all taste great too. The world is your oyster!

Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

Before storing, make sure your air fryer chicken thighs have cooled to room temperature. 

Then, place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

You could also freeze them! Store in a freezer-safe container or just a airtight container or bag, and they’ll keep for up to 4 months.

Use your air fryer to reheat! Set the temperature to 350°F and air fry for 3-5 minutes or until heated through. 

You can use the same temperature if using your regular oven, but you’ll need to let them heat for 10-15 minutes. 

The microwave is a good option for single servings — heat in 30-second bursts until heated through.

If working from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight first. 

Browse our full collection of Air Fryer Chicken Recipes for more easy, flavor-packed dinners your family will ask for on repeat.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Air Fryer Recipes

Crispy Air Fryer Roasted Rosemary Potatoes Recipe

Spicy and Sweet Chili Wings in the Air Fryer + Video

Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower (Easy Recipe with Video)

Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers (Jalapeño Recipe with Bacon)

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Air Fryer Chicken Thighs (Crispy & Juicy Recipe)

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are crunchy, crispy, and flavorful, without any excess oil! My easy chicken thighs air fryer recipe is a must-try!

Course Main

Cuisine American

Method Air Fryer

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 14 minutes minutes

Total Time 19 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 288cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs skin-on, bone-in, approximately 2 pounds total
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning or your favorite – see notes
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions

• Preheat the air fryer at 375 degrees F for 2 to 3 minutes or until your chicken is ready to go into the air fryer (whichever is longer). Preheating helps the chicken start cooking immediately for a crispy exterior.
• Dry the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Drying the chicken helps the seasonings adhere better and promotes crispiness. Place the dry chicken in a large bowl.
• Make the rub: Combine Cajun seasoning, onion powder, black pepper, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Mix well. A well-mixed rub ensures each bite is flavorful.
• Season the chicken: Evenly sprinkle the mixture onto the chicken thighs and massage/press the rub into the chicken skin. Rubbing the seasoning in helps it penetrate the meat for more flavor.
• Add cornstarch: Gently sprinkle cornstarch over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cornstarch aids in creating a crispy texture when air fried.
• Arrange in air fryer: Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Arranging them with space between them ensures even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
• Cook: Air fry at 375°F for 14 minutes, flipping halfway through with tongs. Flipping ensures even cooking and crispiness on both sides.
• Check temperature: Confirm chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F using a meat thermometer. This is the safe cooking temperature for poultry to ensure it's fully cooked.

Notes

Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer’s intensity and chicken size.

Boneless thighs can also be used; adjust time and temperature as needed.

Customize the spice level or use a milder alternative like Ranch dressing mix, Italian seasoning, Lemon Pepper Seasoning, BBQ rub, or your favorite.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 288cal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 91mg | Sugar: 3g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 2mg

Originally published January 2024, updated and republished September 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Air Fryer Chicken Thighs (Crispy & Juicy Recipe) appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

It’s totally possible to curb your sweet tooth when you’re living a keto lifestyle. The next time that you’re craving a chewy cookie with peanut butter flavor, keep this printable recipe card handy!

Not only are they delicious gluten-free cookies, but they make some of the best keto desserts to savor and enjoy! 

I fully believe that people won’t even realize that they’re chowing down on the keto version of a peanut butter cookie recipe – it’s just that good! 

Keto Peanut Butter Cookies

It’s no secret how much I love peanut butter! Whether it’s my luscious no bake Oreo chocolate peanut butter pie, Reese’s peanut butter cheesecake salad, Buckeye Brownies, or a simple peanut butter cheesecake, it’s safe to say I’m obsessed.

I already have a few peanut butter cookie recipes up on the site, including a very straightforward 3-ingredient PB cookie, plus one that’s gluten-free. 

Next up? One for all of my keto people. What’s more, these keto peanut butter cookies happen to be GF and sugar-free too!!

Recently I’ve been finding that with the right ingredients, you can make almost anything low carb! 

These are made with almond flour to keep the carb count down, plus some monk fruit sugar as a sweetener.

So, if you’ve been looking for a gluten-free, sugar-free, and low carb cookie recipe, look no further than these peanut butter keto cookies!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Almond Flour – It’s important to use unprocessed almond flour here to prevent the cookies from becoming too dry and crumbly. Look for brands with zero “enriched” ingredients too. 
  
  As a note, we want almond flour here, not almond meal, which is slightly coarser!
  
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Both act as leavening agents to help your keto peanut butter cookies rise! 
  
  You need both here as there isn’t enough acidity to use baking soda on its own. A little bit of cooking science for ya!
  
• Butter – I like unsalted butter here — make sure it’s softened before you get started to make mixing easier.
  
• Monk Fruit Sugar – I’m using two types of monk fruit sugar sweeteners I knew I wanted to make this totally sugar-free! 
  
  You’ll need brown monk fruit sugar as well as golden granulated monk fruit sugar. I like Lakanto best.
  
  Using a monk fruit sweetener has the same sweetness as regular sugar in baking recipes. (in my opinion) You can use other sweetener options as long as they’re keto-friendly. 
  
• Peanut Butter – Make sure to grab your favorite no-sugar brand of peanut butter! Keep in mind that all-natural may be a bit oily…
  
  I usually reach for Jif or Skippy with no sugar added. Using natural peanut butter is key for these chewy cookies so that they don’t have any added sugar.

Tips and Tricks to Make Perfect Peanut Butter Keto Cookies

• Use an electric stand mixer if you can.

Your keto peanut butter cookie dough will come together a lot more easily with an electric stand mixer like a KitchenAid. 

If you don’t have one, you can definitely use a handheld mixer with a large bowl, but it may take longer to combine everything, just FYI.

And, if you don’t have either… you can still make these cookies, but you’ll have to put some elbow grease into it!

• Consider a quick chill.

The peanut butter can make your dough a bit on the greasy side. If you have the time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes once everything is combined. 

This will make the dough easier to handle and shape, plus it will help the cookies themselves stay together as they bake. A chilled dough is less likely to spread in the oven.

• Watch that baking time!

Since we’re using almond flour to make these low carb peanut butter cookies, they might brown a little faster than ones made with traditional all-purpose flour. 

Keep an eye on them and start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark — take them out as soon as the edges start to brown.

• Slightly underbaked is best.

Along the same lines, it’s very important to remove your almond flour peanut butter cookies from the oven when they are just a tad underbaked.

Then, leave them on the cookie sheet for about 10 minutes so they continue to bake a bit. After they firm up a little, transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Prep Ahead

• Soften butter
• Preheat your oven to 350°F
• Line two half-sheet baking sheets with parchment paper or Silpat pads

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

• Small Baking Sheets lined with Parchment Paper – Used for anything from cookies to roasting, a good baking pan will last for years.
• Mixing Bowls – I like to have a variety of sizes on hand, and this set has them all.
• KitchenAid Mixer – A good stand mixer makes mixing your cheesecake batter so easy! Grab the scraping paddle too, to ensure no lumps from the cream cheese.
• Wire Rack – Great for cooling all kinds of baked goods.

Serving Suggestions

Once your peanut butter keto cookies are cool, feel free to dig right in! I love these on their own (or with a glass of ice cold milk) as an afternoon or after-dinner snack. 

You could also use them to make my famous Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies or ice cream cookie sandwiches too! 

Vanilla is a classic choice, or you could go for something a little more decadent, like chocolate peanut butter or chocolate banana. 

I even think strawberry ice cream would be tasty, kind of like a frozen PB&J!!

Storing Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Once the cookies are cooled, place them in an airtight container and store the leftover cookies at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. 

Keto peanut butter cookies will last for even longer in the fridge.

You could freeze your peanut butter keto cookies too. Place in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. 

Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying or gently reheating in the microwave.

Low Carb Peanut Butter Cookies FAQ

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Print

Easy Homemade Keto Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Keto Peanut Butter Cookies are low carb friendly thanks to a few key ingredients like almond flour. Easy to make, nutty, and delicious!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Method Oven

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 11 minutes minutes

cooling time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 26 minutes minutes

Servings 24 cookies

Calories 90cal

Author Donna Elick

Equipment

• half sheet pan
• medium bowl
• whisk
• stand mixer

Ingredients

• 2 cups organic almond flour see Notes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1/2 cup packed brown monk fruit sugar Lakanto
• 1/4 cup golden granulated sugar Lakanto
• 3/4 cup no sugar peanut butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two half sheet pans with parchment paper or silpat baking mats and set aside.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients: almond flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
• In the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment (Alternatively, you can use a large mixing bowl with a handheld mixer), add all remaining ingredients. Mix on low until just combined. Slowly add in the dry ingredients mixture until cookie dough forms.
• Divide the dough in half. Evenly divide each half into 12 pieces on your baking sheets. Roll each dough piece into a ball (dough may seem a bit greasy) and place back on the sheet, spaced a couple of inches apart.
• Press a fork down on the top of each cookie. Lift the fork, turn it 90 degrees, then press into the cookie again to form a criss-cross pattern.
• Place pans in the oven and bake for 11-12 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to continue baking on the sheets for an additional 10 minutes. Once cookies have begun to firm up, use a spatula to transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

To avoid dry and crumbly almond flour peanut butter cookies, avoid using processed almond flour. There should be no ingredients labeled as “enriched”.

The peanut butter cookie dough is easier to make in an electric stand mixer. If you don’t own one, you can use a handheld electric mixer, but it may take longer to combine everything.

It’s very important to remove the cookies from the oven when they are slightly underbaked. Also, after removing them from the oven, leave the cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to continue baking. After they firm up a bit,
transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 90cal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 17mg | Sodium: 83mg | Sugar: 0.4g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Originally published October 2024, updated and republished August 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post Easy Homemade Keto Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.

That criss-cross pattern on top of these golden brown cookies unlocks core memories of my childhood! 

I remember snacking on yummy cookies like this, which is what prompted me to create this easy peanut butter cookie recipe.  

The three simple ingredients create delicious homemade cookies that will curb your sweet tooth the first time you eat them. 

It’s a great spin on classic peanut butter cookies but with fewer ingredients needed! I love making these for my dear friends because they’re fast, easy, and make great gifts! 

I always tell people how simple these flourless peanut butter cookies are – and people are surprised at how much they love this great recipe once they make them. 

Follow the step-by-step recipe below to make a batch of these cookies. If you’re a cookie lover, you’ll be filling your cookie jar full of these flavorful peanut butter cookies! 

The baking time for these chewy peanut butter cookies is minimal, and you’ll love knowing that you can whip these up quickly for a snack or a simple dessert for special occasions. 

The simplicity of these cookies is the perfect balance of being a fun treat – and not too sweet. It’s easy cookie recipes like this that people have on repeat all the time! 

3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Sometimes the simplest things in life are the best — like a 3 ingredient peanut butter cookie! 

I mean, smooth and creamy peanut butter, sweet and crunchy sugar, and 15 minutes from start to finish… I don’t think it could get any simpler!! 

You don’t even need a mixer — you can mix these up with just a spoon.

To see us make three ingredient peanut butter cookies from start to finish, watch the video in this post!

Trying to stay mindful and not indulge too much? Try these keto peanut butter cookies instead!

Love chocolate and peanut butter? Our Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies combine a fudgy brownie base with a creamy peanut butter center for an irresistible dessert!

Want something extra indulgent? Just smush two of these together, throw some icing in the middle, and you have some peanut butter sandwich cookies! 

Or try these monster cookies that are packed full of peanut butter flavor.

And if you’re really feeling generous, you can make some peanutty cookies for your dog!!

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Peanut Butter – Since we’re only using a few ingredients, let’s maximize each one! 
  
  To get the most flavor out of your peanut butter, I recommend getting a honey-roasted variety. 
  
  I like making Skippy peanut butter cookies just because that’s my favorite brand. There’s a ton of wiggle room for you to use any brand or variety you want!
  
  You can also use natural peanut butter and even sunflower seed butter for this delicious dessert.
  
  Any type of peanut butter or nut butter variety will work. (stay away from chunky peanut butter though) 
  
• Granulated Sugar – Save a lil’ extra for a crunchy sugar topping at the end. Many readers have asked me if they can use a different type of sugar, and you absolutely can! 
  
  Brown sugar can be substituted 1:1 and makes these cookies even chewier — anecdotally, readers have told me this makes the cookies a bit less grainy. 
  
  But, really, any solid sweetener works. You can even try and use less sugar and not make this 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies recipe quite as sweet. 
  
• Egg – Just one, but make it a large one. It does most of the heavy lifting in 3 ingredient cookies. 
  
  You can also use a flax egg if that’s your preference! 

Tips for Making 3 Ingredient Cookies

• Don’t Overbake

This is crucial!! Overbaking will totally ruin your treats. 

After 10 minutes, keep checking to see if they’re done — and check out the FAQ for some tips on knowing when they’re baked! 

• Stick with Creamy Skippy

The only kind of peanut butter you don’t want to use is crunchy peanut butter! Really, no-stir varieties are your best bet.

Otherwise, your 3 ingredient peanut butter cookie dough will end up too crumbly and, ultimately, won’t bind together. 

You could also use almond butter or other nut butters for these easy peanut butter cookies! 

• Add An Extra Ingredient

If you want to go absolutely crazy and use a fourth ingredient, I have a couple of recommendations! 

A single Hershey Kiss on top makes the fan favorite peanut blossom, for example. 

Or, a Reese’s peanut butter cup on top doubles the peanut butter with just a hint of chocolate — delicious! 

And a teaspoon of vanilla or a handful of chocolate chips goes a long way!

You could also add sprinkles for a pop of fun instead of doing the crosshatch pattern on top of the baked cookies. And a drizzle of maple syrup on top is really fun, too! 

Options are endless! 

Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies FAQ 

Storing and Freezing No Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

You don’t necessarily need to refrigerate these — they’ll last 3 or 4 days on the countertop. They’ll always last longer in the fridge, of course!

3 ingredient peanut butter cookies are also the KINGS of prep-ahead cookies. 

You can make so much dough (double or triple the recipe if you want!) and freeze for up to 3 months. 

Bake and then freeze, or shape and freeze to bake later — either way works. 

Have a layer of wax or parchment paper between the 3 ingredient peanut butter cookies (or dough balls) to keep them from sticking together.

Enjoy!

With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Other Easy Cookie Recipes

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3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe + Video

3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies really are soft, chewy and as easy as one, two, three! Just stir, scoop, and bake!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Method Oven

Prep Time 3 minutes minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 18 cookies

Calories 132cal

Author Donna Elick

Ingredients

• 1 cup honey roasted peanut butter I used Skippy Natural
• 1 cup granulated sugar plus extra
• 1 large egg

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (for easy clean up).
• Mix ingredients in a medium bowl until well combined. Use an electric mixer, stand mixer or a wooden spoon.
• Using a 1 tablespoon scooper, drop onto baking sheet. Dip fork into extra sugar and press cookie down. Repeat until all cookies are pressed.
• Bake 10-12 minutes (until barely golden brown around the edges) and allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
• Serve and enjoy.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 132cal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 65mg | Sugar: 13g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 1mg

Originally published December 2014, updated and republished August 2025

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

The post 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe + Video appeared first on The Slow Roasted Italian.