Four years ago I started this experiment: to share real, approachable recipes that my family and friends love and often make. I didn’t know where it would lead, but as I turn the page and begin year five, I feel nothing but gratitude for all of you who follow along, cook from these posts, and reach out to share what you’ve tried (and how you’ve made the recipes your own). Here are your favorite recipes from the past year!
Air-Fried Cheese Puffs
Air-Fried cheese puffs are a crispy, cheesy twist on a deep-fried classic—made lighter in the air fryer with ranch seasoning and a perfect crunch for game day.
Classic Chicken Riggies – An Upstate NY Favorite
A cozy, flavorful Chicken Riggies recipe made with spicy peppers, tender chicken, and a creamy tomato sauce. A comforting Upstate NY classic for any weeknight.
Candy Cane Puffs: A Festive Treat with a Peppermint Twist
I’m a firm believer that every holiday cookie platter needs a touch of peppermint. It’s always fun to see what disappears first when sharing with friends and family. Let me tell you, this new addition to our holiday lineup didn’t last long—it was gone in a flash! Let’s cook! You’ll get just the right hint…
Classic Shepherd’s Pie (Easy Make-Ahead Comfort Food)
This shepherd’s pie is comfort food at its best — savory meat and vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes that bake up golden and bubbling. Perfect for entertaining, family dinners, or anytime you need a make-ahead meal that feeds a crowd.
Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Fresh Stuffing
Slow cooker pork chops with apples, onions, and homemade stuffing. A simple, flavorful recipe made without canned soup — perfect for busy weeknights
Crustless Potato Spinach Quiche
This Crustless Quiche with Spinach, Bacon & Hash Browns is an easy, delicious meal for any time of day! Packed with crispy potatoes, creamy ricotta, and a touch of spice, it’s a satisfying and low-carb alternative to traditional quiche. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner!
Spekulatius (German Spice Cookies)
Make your kitchen smell like a German Christmas Market with these crisp, cozy spice cookies. Easy to make, beautifully spiced, and perfect for gifting.
Mom’s Pasta Casserole (But Please Don’t Call It Goulash!)
This easy baked pasta casserole skips the paprika and leans into cozy Italian flavors with stewed tomatoes, garlic, and melty mozzarella. A family favorite that’s been on the table for decades!
Shortcut Beef Stroganoff
This quick beef stroganoff uses an air fryer for tender steak and rich flavor in just 40 minutes—a cozy, weeknight twist on the classic comfort dish.
This year brought a few milestones I never imagined when I first started. I published Color & Savor, my first coloring book and started Gather & Savor, a weekly Substack filled with even more stories, travel adventures, and the memories that cooking brings. Here on the blog, we’ve grown too, adding Notes from My Kitchen Counter, Cook with Me, and Savor the Journey.
I’ve loved hearing from you over the past year and hope you’ll continue reaching out! Tell me what’s happening in your kitchen, what you’re cooking lately, and any questions on your mind.
As we begin year five, there’s more on the horizon — and I can’t wait to share it all with you.
“The best memories are made around the table with friends and delicious food.”
Eat well friends!
Michelle Cooks 
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