This Before and After School Checklist takes a small bit of the the crazy out of the two most hectic times a day, before and after school! You guys. I’m scared. So you know how before school is a CRAZY time? You guys! This year I have two kids to get ready! And one of them is not a morning person. She is small, adorable, and just getting over (barely) her threenager status....
BLT Chicken Salad is a great easy spin on the classic chicken salad recipe that you know and love. This easy recipe can make the perfect low carb lunch! There is nothing better than an easy picnic salad that can be used for sandwiches or on it’s own. Today we are merging the classic BLT with chicken salad to make a BLT Chicken Salad that I know you are going to fall in love with....
<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Butternut-Squash-Chili-Pin-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for butternut squash chili. Image shows two bowls of butternut squash chili topped with sour cream. Text says “butternut squash chili simplejoy.com” - 1”> <img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Butternut-Squash-Chili-Pin-3-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for butternut squash soup. Top image shows a bowl of butternut squash soup topped with sour cream. Text says “vegetarian butternut squash chili simplejoy.com” Lower image shows a pot of butternut squash chili. - 2”>...
Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food. This recipe is made completely from scratch, has the flakiest crust and the creamiest filling, and will have everyone begging for seconds. When I think of the term comfort food, images of warm houses and loving families spring to mind before food does. I guess for me, comfort food is a feeling more than a type of dish. It is food that warms you to your core and makes you feel taken care of....
<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Cranberry-Mimosa-Pin-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for Cranberry Mimosa. Image shows two glasses of cranberry mimosas with pomegranate, bottle of champagne, and fresh cranberries sitting in background. Text says “Cranberry Mimosa simplejoy.com” - 1”> <img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Christmas-Mimosa-Pin-10-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for Christmas Mimosa. Top image shows champagne flute of Christmas mimosa with bottle of champagne and pomegranate in background. Text says “amazing Christmas mimosa simplejoy.com” Lower left image shows cocktail jigger of pomegranate liqueur pouring into a champagne flute to make a Christmas Mimosa cocktail....
Croissant French Toast is going to be your new favorite breakfast. My family is obsessed with this recipe, and every weekend my kids request it. During the week, our mornings are a sprint out the door. We have one kid leaving the house before 6:30 and two more to get out the door before 8:00. It’s non-stop movement and often means bowls of cereal for breakfast. But on the weekends, we take our time, and my kids love when we make pancakes, French toast, and waffles....
Cucumber Avocado Salad is the perfect easy and light side dish. Made with fresh ingredients and a simple dressing, this is a great dish to bring to outdoor picnics and gatherings. Avocados are my favorite and my best. (Is “my favorite and my best” something that is only used in my house? We are notoriously weird and random, so it’s possible.) I could eat all the avocados all the time, but I especially love them mixed in with other ingredients, like in my avocado tuna salad ....
<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Garlic-Butter-Shrimp-Pin-2-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for Garlic butter shrimp. Top image spoon holding pieces of Garlic butter shrimp. Text says “super easy garlic butter shrimp simplejoy.com” Lower image shows overhead of a skillet of Garlic butter shrimp topped with fresh parsley. - 1”> Garlic butter shrimp is about to become your new favorite recipe. It is an amazing appetizer, but you can toss it with some pasta for a fantastic dinner....
<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Greek-Turkey-Burger-Pin-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for Greek Turkey Burgers. Close up photo of Greek Turkey Burgers served on buns with yogurt sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Text says, “Greek Turkey Burger simplejoy.com” - 1”> <img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Greek-Turkey-Burger-Pin-2-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for Greek Turkey Burgers. Text says, “Amazing Greek Burgers simplejoy.com.” Close up photo of Greek Turkey Burgers served on buns with yogurt sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. - 2”>...
<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Hamburger-Recipe-Pin-2-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for The Best Hamburger Recipe. Says “the best burger recipe simplejoy.com” Image shows a grilled hamburger on a bun and lettuce topped with cheese. French fries sitting beside and behind. - 1”> <img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Hamburger-Recipe-Pin-3-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for The Best Hamburger Recipe. Top image shows a grilled hamburger on a bun with lettuce, ketchup, pickles, tomato slice, and red onion. Says “super easy burger recipe simplejoy....
<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blind-Bake-Pie-Crust-Pin-2-2-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“pinterest graphic of overhead of blind baked pie crust, says: “how to blind bake pie crust” - 2”> Learn how to blind bake a pie crust with this simple tutorial and step by step photos. Perfect for any pie recipe that starts with a partially baked crust. There are so many things about baking that intimidate new bakers, and one of those things is working with pie crust....
This Instant Pot Meatballs and Pasta Recipe is such a great easy dinner recipe that can be made with as few as four ingredients! So since I posted my Creamy Instant Pot Spaghetti , which is so delicious, I have had readers ask if they can substitute in meatballs. And with readers always asking me for more Instant Pot recipes , I knew it was time to make you this delicious dinner....
<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Limoncello-Spritz-Pin-2-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for Limoncello Spritz recipe. Text says, “the best Limoncello Spritz simplejoy.com.” Image shows Limoncello Spritz garnished with lemon slice and fresh mint leaves. Lemon slices and mint leaves beside on counter. - 1”> <img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Limoncello-Spritz-Pin-3-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for Limoncello Spritz recipe. Top image shows Limoncello Spritz garnished with lemon slice and mint leaves, with more for garnish beside. Bottom images show ingredients being poured into glass for Limoncello Spritz recipe....
More than 20 Grilling Recipes that are perfect for summer! Main dishes, side dishes, and desserts, everything is better when you make it outside! Aren’t grilling recipes the best? I love the ease of making a great recipe on the grill. My family loves it too! We make everything outside while the kids play and then eat together on our patio enjoying the four days of summer that Wisconsin weather gives us....
New Year’s Eve Appetizers are something to look forward to all year long, and this round up will give you the best of the best. <img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/New-Years-Eve-Appetizers-Main-1-683x1024.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“graphic of appetizers that says: “the best NYE appetizers” - 1”> You know by now that appetizers are my absolute favorite, so when I say that New Year’s Eve appetizers are something to look forward to, I’m not at all kidding. This list should cover all of your bases so you have a little something for everyone....
<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Home-Fries-Pin-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for Home Fries recipe. Image shows a skillet of Home Fries. Text says, “the best Home Fries simplejoy.com.” - 1”> <img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Home-Fries-Pin-3-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for Home Fries recipe. Top image is overhead view of a plate with Home Fries, eggs over easy, and toast. Bottom image is overhead view of a skillet of Home Fries. Text says, “the best Home Fries recipe simplejoy....
This Perfect Pumpkin Pie from scratch is the BEST! It gets a little help from the blender so making it is really simple! It is smooth, delicious, and you will want to make it year after year. Make sure to grab the recipe for this fool proof pie crust to go with it. It can’t be beat. If you have never made a pumpkin pie recipe from scratch, I am here to tell you – as I do with everything – if I can do this, so can you....
Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese is a perfect 30 minute dinner the whole family will love. This is a great spin on our homemade mac and cheese ! It is so easy in the kids to overbook your family with camps and extracurriculars. We have totally been guilty of this in the past. Which means that, just like during the school year, we need fast and easy dinner ideas....
<img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Pulled-Pork-Tacos-Pin-8-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for pulled pork tacos recipe. Top image is overhead photo of pulled pork tacos ready for serving. Pickled red onions, cilantro, and cotija cheese on the side for serving. Text says, “Super easy pulled pork tacos simplejoy.com” Bottom image is overhead photo of a slow cooker of pork and cilantro for pulled pork tacos recipe. - 1”> <img loading=“lazy” src=“https://www.simplejoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Pulled-Pork-Tacos-Pin-3-150x150.jpg" onerror=“this.onerror=null;this.src=‘https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7F7TRXHtjiKvHb5vS7DmnxvpHiDyoYyYvm1nHB3Qp2_w3BnM6A2eq4v7FYxCC9bfZt3a9vIMtAYEKUiaDQbHMg-ViyGmRIj39MLp0bGFfgfYw1Dc9q_H-T0wiTm3l0Uq42dETrN9eC8aGJ9_IORZsxST1AcLR7np1koOfcc7tnHa4S8Mwz_xD9d0=s16000';" alt=“Pinterest graphic for pulled pork tacos recipe....
This Quinoa Breakfast Recipe is a simple easy and healthy breakfast with only three ingredients. It comes together in about 20 minutes and can be made ahead for an easy grab and go breakfast in the morning. Quinoa for breakfast is a great option because it keeps you feeling full all morning. This Quinoa Berry Bowl comes in at about 250 calories and 6 grams of protein! It’s a great option if you are trying to keep things lighter in the new year....
