The kids are back in school and the schedules and time crunch is back!

We need meals that are nourishing and delicious, but also hassle-free. That’s why I LOVE these easy back-to-school night meals. You literally heat, then serve them!

Here are 5 easy ways to make weeknight dinnertime a wonderful experience:

1. Brisket with twice-baked potatoes. The meat is already sliced and sauced. Put it in the oven (the potatoes, too) and voila!
2. Hickory-smoked ham and mashed potatoes with porcini mushrooms. Delicious and different. This meal is a hit!
3. Chicken Spiedini. A new twist on a mealtime favorite – chicken! This Italian dish is so savory your family will devour it. Serve with your favorite noodles.
4. Cold Water Lobster Tails. Did they ace the test? Break out this seafood favorite! You can grill, bake or boil them. Whichever way you choose, it’s simple! Try with creamed spinach.
5. Beef Wellington. Put it in the oven and you have a gourmet meal that is rich and flavorful. Green beans in a mushroom cream sauce are an excellent accompaniment!

May all your school nights be stress free – or at least the ones when you take it easy on yourself and serve these meals!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

Now that we have a checklist for planning a celebration of Dad on Father’s Day, let’s talk MENU!

We’ve got to do it up right for Dad!

APPETIZERS

We’re going to want to whet Dad’s appetite, but not TOO much because there’s lots more to come! Try some Jumbo Shrimp or Basil Pesto Gorgonzola Kisses to get him started.

ENTREE

Now on to the main course! Might I suggest a gorgeous Porterhouse steak for such an occasion? It’s manly, it’s delicious and it’ll let Dad know you’re serious.

SIDE DISHES

This celebration meal calls for Mashed Potatoes with Porcini Mushrooms or decadent Twice Baked Potatoes. Delish!

DESSERT

MY dad is all about the German Chocolate Cake. But maybe yours would love Red Velvet Cake or Vanilla Cheesecake. Pick his favorite!

It’s so much fun to plan a meal for someone you love. Make sure you have all Dad’s faves and it’ll be a hit. Click here for more menu inspiration.

Happy celebrating!

All was quiet in the house (well, except for the kids)

We decided it was time for a strip

So that’s what we did

A salad to start

Some mashed potatoes as a side

We talked about the holidays — and life

It’s been quite a ride

How did it get to be Christmastime already?

A few days ago it was 70 degress

Now the snow is comin’ down heavy

Nothin’ like grilling with your gloves on

When you’re serious about a steak

It was fun while it lasted —

Our at-home holiday date.