### Creamy Baked Corn Dip: A Tasty Starter

Sweet corn, crispy vegetables, and savory bacon unite in a delicious baked dip that’s ideal for social events and gatherings. This creamy, cheesy corn dip boasts a mixture of flavors reminiscent of Mexican street corn, elevated by the rich essence of cheese and the smoky depth of bacon. With the perfect hint of spiciness, it’s a hit that will have everyone coming back for more.

#### Flavor Profile
The dip merges the sweetness of corn with the crunch of fresh veggies and the savory flavor of bacon. The incorporation of spices and creamy cheese infuses a zesty flavor profile that strikes a balance between comforting and exhilarating.

#### Skill Level
This recipe is suitable for beginners, needing only basic kitchen tools. Just blend the ingredients, bake, and serve right from the baking dish, making tidying up simple.

#### Budget-Friendly Tips
To maximize the recipe, think about adding black beans or leftover chicken during the mixing process. This not only boosts flavor but also contributes protein and fiber.

#### Serving Suggestions
This dip is adaptable and pairs well with a range of dippers. Complement it with fresh vegetables like celery, zucchini slices, and bell pepper scoops. For a crunchier alternative, serve with tortilla chips, Fritos corn chips, or homemade crostini.

### Ingredient Tips for Corn Dip

– **Corn**: Opt for fresh corn removed from the cob, thawed frozen corn, or drained canned corn for optimal results.
– **Dairy**: A mix of sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese delivers a decadent and creamy foundation. Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a lighter variation.
– **Add-Ins**: Crumbled bacon brings a fantastic crunch and smoky essence, but feel free to swap it for diced ham or leftover ground beef.
– **Variations**: Elevate the dip with vibrant additions such as chopped green onions, black olives, or jalapeños. For an extra kick, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

### Preparation Instructions

1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. **Mix Dairy**: In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese and sour cream until creamy.
3. **Combine Ingredients**: Stir in corn, red bell pepper, green chilies, bacon, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly.
4. **Transfer to Dish**: Evenly distribute the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.
5. **Bake**: Bake for 30 minutes or until the dip bubbles and the cheese is melted.
6. **Garnish and Serve**: Optionally add extra corn, peppers, bacon, and cilantro for garnish. Serve right away with your choice of dippers.

### Storing Corn Dip
Unused corn dip can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can be enjoyed cold or warmed up in the microwave. For extended storage, freeze in zippered bags for up to one month. After defrosting, mix in fresh sour cream to revive creaminess.

### Nutritional Information
Each serving of this creamy corn dip has approximately:
– **Calories**: 164
– **Carbohydrates**: 8g
– **Protein**: 7g
– **Fat**: 12g
– **Sodium**: 420mg

### Conclusion
This creamy baked corn dip is both simple to make and a guaranteed favorite at any gathering. With its rich flavors and satisfying consistency, it’s an excellent addition to your appetizer list. Enjoy it hot or cold, and make sure to share your feedback!

Who is to determine when a popsicle qualifies as a popsicle? Allow me to clarify: these watermelon popsicles consist of frozen segments of watermelon on sticks. (Or not on sticks—you could freeze slices or wedges and utilize the rind for a solid grip.) I experimented with making watermelon popsicles in molds and honestly prefer the texture and taste of these uncomplicated pops.

These watermelon popsicles are invigorating, easy, and fruity treats perfect for summer. Here are a few more reasons to whip up these watermelon wonders:

– They are the simplest popsicles I’ve ever created, needing just one ingredient and meticulous slicing.
– They serve as an excellent way to use up excess watermelon. Watermelons can be quite large.
– They are less messy for young children to consume than fresh watermelon (watermelon juice stains can be surprisingly tough to clean off fabrics). Adults will like them too, perhaps even more so with a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of chili-lime seasoning.

Moreover, how adorable are the cookie-cutter shapes? The star design would be a hit for Independence Day celebrations or summer birthdays. I’m already planning to make these for Grace’s birthday bash. You’ll discover a photo guide and recipe below.

How to Prepare Watermelon Popsicles

To start, determine if you’d prefer cookie-cutter shapes, wedges, or slices. Here are your options:

– Cookie-cutter shapes are enjoyable. For this, you will need cookie cutters and popsicle sticks. This technique results in some leftover scraps, and ideas for those can be found in the section below.
– Wedges are simple to handle.
– Slices remind me of classic popsicle mold shapes. You can even grate the frozen slices on a large box grater to create watermelon shaved ice!

Cut your watermelon accordingly. Find a rimmed baking sheet or tray that fits in your freezer shelf, and line it with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Arrange each popsicle on the paper with a bit of space; you can layer more parchment paper and popsicles on top.

Freeze until firm (about four hours), then enjoy or move them to a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.

Watermelon Selection Advice

Your popsicles will taste as delicious and sweet as the watermelon you choose, so pick a good one. My preferred variety is Sugar Baby watermelons, but any flavorful watermelon will do.

When selecting a watermelon, look for one that is:

– Heavy for its size
– Dull, not shiny
– Symmetrically shaped
– Dark green, featuring a yellow to orange “field spot” that signifies it has ripened properly on the vine (the more vibrant the yellow-orange hue, the better)

Ideas for Leftover Watermelon

If you transform your entire watermelon into frozen wedges or slices, you won’t have any scraps to deal with. If you create cookie-cutter-shaped popsicles, there will be leftover pieces of watermelon.

Perhaps you only wish to convert a portion of a big watermelon into popsicles. Here are some ideas for those leftovers:

More Popsicles and Frozen Treats

If you like this recipe, consider trying one of these next:

Kindly share your thoughts on your frozen watermelon in the comments. It’s such a simple and refreshing summer treat!

Watermelon Popsicles

Frozen watermelon is the ideal chilled summer indulgence! Create these watermelon popsicles and savor them throughout the summer. The yield varies depending on the size of your watermelon; make as many or as few popsicles as you desire.

1. Using a sharp chef’s knife, remove the stem end and the opposite end. Position the watermelon upright on a flat side. Slice it in half vertically. Set one half against the cutting board with the flat side facing down.
2. For cookie-cutter shapes, cut across the watermelon to create ½-inch thick slabs. Press the cookie cutter down to form shapes. Repeat with the other half of the watermelon. Insert popsicle sticks approximately ¾-inch into the base of each shape.
3. For wedges, slice lengthwise down the center for large wedges or generate smaller wedges by slicing lengthwise one-third of the way from each side, meeting in the middle. Then cut across the watermelon repeatedly to produce ½-inch wide wedges. Repeat with the other half of the watermelon.
4. For long strips, slice lengthwise along the watermelon to create about 4 to 5 even sections, then slice across those segments to produce ½-inch wide strips.
5. Locate a tray or baking dish that fits in your freezer. Line it with parchment paper and arrange the watermelon in a single layer, ensuring space between each piece to prevent sticking. If more space is required, add an additional layer of parchment paper on top to create a new layer. Freeze until solid, approximately 4 hours.
6. Transfer the popsicles to a freezer bag for storage in the freezer for up to 3 months (the bag helps to prevent freezer burn). Enjoy!

# Enhance Your Steak Meals with Tasty Homemade Steak Sauces

Whether you’re treating yourself to a high-quality steak or a basic supermarket duo, the ideal steak sauce can take your dish to the next level. Preparing steak at home can feel indulgent, and with these straightforward yet impressive steak sauce recipes, you can whip up a restaurant-grade meal without stretching your budget.

## The Significance of Sauce

Once you’ve mastered your steak cooking skills—reverse searing is strongly advised—it’s time to add that distinct flair with a sauce. These recipes are meant to be efficient and uncomplicated, using six ingredients or fewer, and can be prepared in mere minutes as your steak cooks. Wave farewell to overpriced sauces found in restaurants!

### 1. Classic Peppercorn Steak Sauce

A classic selection, peppercorn sauce merges the intricate flavors of brandy, the creaminess of heavy cream, and the aromatic warmth of freshly ground peppercorns.

**Ingredients:**
– 1/4 cup brandy or cognac
– 1/2 cup no sodium beef broth
– 1/3 cup heavy cream
– 1-2 tsp crushed whole black peppercorns
– Salt to taste

**Instructions:**
1. In the same skillet used for the steak, deglaze with brandy over medium heat, gathering the browned bits.
2. When reduced, mix in beef broth and cream. Incorporate peppercorns and let simmer until thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt.

**Nutrition Facts (per serving):**
Calories: 109 | Fat: 7.4g | Sodium: 23mg

### 2. Creamy Mustard Steak Sauce

For those who favor a zesty bite, this mustard sauce harmonizes the richness of steak perfectly.

**Ingredients:**
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp whole grain mustard
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– Chopped chives (optional)

**Instructions:**
1. Deglaze the skillet with wine, scraping up bits. Incorporate mustard and cream, simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper, adding chives if desired.

**Nutrition Facts (per serving):**
Calories: 190 | Fat: 17.2g | Sodium: 86mg

### 3. Creamy Parmesan Garlic Mushroom Sauce

This decadent sauce includes sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and parmesan, ideal for mushroom enthusiasts.

**Ingredients:**
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 lb mushrooms, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**
1. Melt butter in the skillet, add mushrooms and cook until golden. Stir in garlic, then deglaze with wine. Add cream and parmesan, simmer until thickened.

**Nutrition Facts (per serving):**
Calories: 299 | Fat: 26g | Sodium: 162mg

### 4. Coconut Curry Steak Sauce

This distinctive sauce blends coconut milk and curry for a warm, flavorful treat.

**Ingredients:**
– 1/4 cup diced shallots
– 1.5 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 tsp fish sauce

**Instructions:**
1. Sauté shallots until tender. Stir in curry, garlic powder, and sugar. Mix in coconut milk and fish sauce, simmer to thicken.

**Nutrition Facts (per serving):**
Calories: 319 | Fat: 29.3g | Sodium: 255mg

### 5. Japanese Chimichurri Steak Sauce

A fresh take on chimichurri, this variant incorporates cilantro and sesame oil for a savory flavor.

**Ingredients:**
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, crushed
– 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp soy sauce

**Instructions:**
1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

**Nutrition Facts (per serving):**
Calories: 137 | Fat: 13.6g | Sodium: 151mg

## Bonus Steak Sauce Recipes

### Steak Diane Sauce

A rich blend of mushroom and peppercorn sauces, this classic is brimming with taste.

**Ingredients:**
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1/2 shallot, finely minced
– 2 cloves garlic, crushed
– 2.5 oz mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 1/4 cup cognac
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tbsp dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup beef stock
–

### About the Author: Holly Nilsson

Holly Nilsson is the imaginative mind behind Spend With Pennies, a site dedicated to delivering simple and comforting recipes tailored for everyday cooking. With an emphasis on nostalgic tastes and straightforward cooking methods, Holly seeks to help busy home chefs create delicious meals that are both fulfilling and manageable.

Her enthusiasm for cooking shines through in her methodology, which highlights the significance of preparing hearty, homemade dishes that bring a sense of warmth and familiarity. Holly’s knowledge is further illustrated in her book, “Everyday Comfort,” which offers inspiration for those wishing to expand their cooking skills with wholesome and soothing recipes.

For those eager to discover more of Holly’s culinary innovations, additional posts and recipes are available on her website.

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Holly Nilsson continues to encourage home cooks with her accessible recipes and love for food, making cooking an enjoyable journey for all.

**How to Grill Bananas for an Irresistible Dessert**

Grilling bananas is an easy yet enjoyable method to enhance your dessert repertoire. The heat caramelizes the fruit’s natural sugars, boosting its sweetness and imparting a smoky essence. Here’s a guide to grilling bananas for an irresistible dessert.

**Ingredients:**
– Ripe bananas (not overly ripe)
– Brown sugar or honey
– Cinnamon (optional)
– Butter or cooking spray
– Ice cream, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce for serving (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Grill:**
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If utilizing a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed for uniform heat. Thoroughly clean the grill grates to avoid sticking.

2. **Prepare the Bananas:**
– Opt for bananas that are ripe but still firm. Peel the bananas and slice them in half lengthwise. If you prefer, you can also cut them into smaller pieces for easier handling.

3. **Add Flavor:**
– Gently brush the banana halves with melted butter or apply cooking spray to prevent sticking. Sprinkle a bit of brown sugar or drizzle honey over the bananas to amplify their sweetness. For added flavor, include a dash of cinnamon.

4. **Grill the Bananas:**
– Position the banana halves on the grill, cut side down. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for grill marks and a slightly softened texture. Be cautious not to cook them too long, as bananas can become mushy.

5. **Serve:**
– Take the bananas off the grill and allow them to cool slightly. Serve them warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent treat.

**Tips for Perfect Grilled Bananas:**
– Utilize a grill basket or aluminum foil if you’re concerned about the bananas slipping through the grates.
– Try different toppings like nuts, coconut flakes, or a splash of rum for a tropical flair.
– Grilled bananas complement other grilled fruits such as pineapple or peaches for a mixed fruit dessert.

Grilled bananas are a versatile dessert that can be savored on their own or included in a more elaborate meal. Their natural sweetness and caramelized surface make them a favorite at any barbecue or dinner gathering. Savor the simplicity and taste of this delightful treat!