Mock Little Debbie's Brownies

 You can make these cosmic (colorful hard candies) or nutty.  Sadly they no longer make the nutty ones.

MOCK LITTLE DEBBIE'S BROWNIES

(makes 16)

Brownie Ingredients:

*3/4 cup (12 tablespoons) butter

*3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa 

*1 cup granulated sugar

*1/2 cup brown sugar

*1 teaspoon vanilla extract

*2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk

*1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

*1 teaspoon cornstarch

*1/2 teaspoon salt

Frosting Ingrediens:

*1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

*1/2 cup milk chocolate chips

*1/3 cup heavy cream

*1 teaspoon vanilla extract

*1/8 teaspoon salt

*2 tablespoons candy coated pieces or finely chopped walnuts

Brownie Directions:

~Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

~Spray a 9x13 inch baking pan with cooking spray and lightly flour.

~Place 3/4 cup butter in a large microwave safe bowl and melt.

~Stir in 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa.

~Add 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar and stir until well incorporated.

~Stir in 2 large eggs,  one at a time and stir.

~Stir in 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

~Add 1 1/14 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon cornstarch and 1/2 teaspoon salt, stir until well combined.

~Pour into prepared pan and spread out evenly to edges.

~Place into preheated oven and bake for 16-19 minutes.

~Remove from oven and cool completely.

Frosting Directions:

~In a small saucepan, add 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips,  1/2 cup milk chocolate chips, 1/8 teapspoon salt, and 1/3 cup heavy cream.

~Cook over medium-low heat, stirring often (so mixture doesn't burn), until chocolate chips are melted.

~Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

~Allow to cool for 1 minute and then pour over brownies.

~Spread evenly over brownies.

~Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of candy coated pieces or finely chopped walnuts.

Mock McDonalds French Fries

 Soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside.   You can freeze these after the first fry for future use.   When ready to use, just take them out the freezer and allow to sit for about 10 minutes and then do the second fry.

MOCK MCDONALD'S FRENCH FRIES 

(serves 4)

Ingredients:

*2 large russet potatoes, peeled

*10 cups ice water

*1/3 cup granulated sugar 

*3 teaspoons white vinegar

*2 tablespoons kosher salt

*1 teaspoon of beef bouillon 

*Canola or Vegetable Oil for frying

*1 cup lard (optional)

Directions:

~Cut 4 large peeled russet potatoes, into thin fries.

~Rinse with cold water to remove starch.

~In a large bowl, combine 10 cups cold water, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 3 teaspoons white vinegar, 2 tablespoons kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon beef bouillon. 

~Submerge the cut fries into cold water mixture.

~Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

~Drain fries from water and place on paper towel or a clean dry tea towel.

~Pour oil into cast iron pan (or heavy bottom frying pan) about 3-4 inches deep (I use a deep fryer).

~Heat oil to 300 degrees.

~Add fries to hot oil a small batch at a time.

~Fry for 5 minutes.

~Remove from oil and place on paper towel to drain and dry for about 15 minutes (you can let them dry longer). *** once dry, this is the point that you can freeze them.

~Add 1 cup lard and heat oven to 400 degrees.

~Add fries a small batch at a time, and fry for 1-2 minutes or until a light golden brown and fries are crispy.

~Remove from oil and sprinkle a little salt over them.

Mock Big Mac Sauce

 We love making Big Macs & fries.   This sauce is so good.

MOCK BIG MAC SAUCE

(makes about 3/4 cup)

Ingredients:

*1/2 cup mayonnaise 

*1 teaspoon granulated sugar

*2 tablespoons sweet relish

*1 teaspoon white vinegar 

*2 tablespoons French dressing

*salt & pepper to taste (just a pinch of each)

Directions:

~In a small bowl, stir 1/2 cups mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons sweet relish, 1 teaspoon white vinegar, 2 tablespoons French dressing, and salt & pepper to taste.

~Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (I prefer at least 4 hours)

Mock McDonalds Fried Apple Pie

 So good.   Make sure you let them cool a little bit before eating or you will burn your mouth.  You can put these together and freeze in a single layer on a cookie sheet for later use.   Place in a plastic bag once they are frozen.  Remove from freezer and allow to sit for 15-20 minutes before frying.

MOCK MCDONALD'S FRIED APPLE PIE

 (makes 12)

Pie Ingredients:

*2 (17.3 ounce) box puff pastry sheets, thawed

*6 Granny Smith apples (about  6 cups), peeled, cored and diced

*3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed

*1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 

*1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

*1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

*dash of salt

*4 tablespoons butter

*2 tablespoons corn starch

*2 tablespoons cold water

Topping Ingredients

*1/2 cup granulated sugar

*1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pie Directions:

~Line a couple cookies sheets with parchment paper.

~Fill a small bow with cold water and a 2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional).

~Peel and chop 6 Granny Smith apples (about 6 cups) into small squares.

~Place chopped apples into vinegar water (optional).

~Drain apples.

~Add apples,  3/4 cup light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves, and dash of salt into a large frying pan.

~Cook over medium heat until apples are tender, stirring often (10-15 minutes).

~In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons corn starch to 2 tablespoons cold water until cornstarch has dissolved.

~Stir into apple mixture and stir until thickened.

~Remove from heat and cool.

~Cut each sheet of puff pastry into 6 equal pieces.

~Scoop some pie filling into the center of a piece of cut puff pastry, leaving the edges free of pie filling.

~Fill a small bowl with water.

~Dip your finger into the water  and brush along the edges of the puff pastry.

~Place another piece of puff pastry over top of the filling.

~Seal around the edges with a fork.

~Place onto prepared cookie sheet.

~Freeze for 10-15 minutes.

~Pour vegetable oil into a large frying pan, about 3-4 inches deep.

~Heat oil to 350 degrees.

~Fry apple pies a couple at a time, for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

~Remove from oil and allow to cool for at 5 minutes before eating.

Mock Cracker Jacks

 I do have a recipe for caramel corn, but this is not it.  Around our house we eat ball-park food on the Detroit Tigers opening day.   This would include hot dogs, nachos & cheese, peanuts, IBC root beer (we don't drink beer,), and cracker jacks.   If you make this for your kids, go to the dollar store and pick out a few toys to put in their bag of cracker jacks.  I normally double this recipe.

MOCK CRACKER JACKS

Ingredients:

*1/3 cup popcorn kernels (8-10 cup of popped corn)

*1 cup, Spanish peanuts 

*1/4 cup butter

*1/3 cup brown sugar, packed

*2 tablespoons molasses

*1/4 teaspoon baking soda

*1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

~Preheat oven to 250 degrees.

~Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray and set aside.

~Pop 1/3 cup popcorn kernels.

~Remove any kernels that didn't pop.

~Place popcorn into a large mixing bowl along with 1 cup Spanish peanuts.

~In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup butter, 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons molasses.

~Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

~Once mixture comes to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and simmer for 3 minutes.

~Remove from heat and quickly stir in 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda until mixture is foamy.

~Pour hot mixture over popcorn and peanuts and stir until well coated.

~Pour onto prepared cookie sheet and spread out into a single layer (as much as possible).

~Bake in preheated oven for 60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.

~Remove from oven and allow to cool.

~Break apart any large pieces.

Mock Krispy Kreme Donuts

 I these best when they are warm, but they are good even when cooled.

MOCK KRISPY KREME DONUTS

(makes 14-16)

Donut Ingredients:

*1 1/2 cups whole milk

*2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

*1/3 cup granulated sugar

*1/2 cup butter, melted and cooled some

*2 large eggs, room temperature

*4 1/4 cups bread flour

*1 teaspoon salt

*vegetable oil for frying

White Glaze Ingredients:

*4 cups powdered sugar

*dash of salt

*1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

*1/2 cup whole milk

Chocolate Glaze:

*1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

*3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa 

*1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

*3-4 tablespoons whole milk

Donut Directions:

~In a small bowl, lightly mix 1 1/2 cups warm milk (about 110-115 degrees), 2 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast and 1/3 cup granulated sugar.

~Cover with a plate and allow to sit for 5-10 minutes or until it proofs (bubbles up).

~In a large mixing bowl,  stir 4 1/2 cups bread flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 2 large eggs.

~Stir in yeast mixture until well combined.

~Knead dough until soft and elastic, about 5-8 minutes.

~Grease a large bowl and place dough in it.  

~Cover with plastic wrap or a damp clean tea towel until dough doubles in size (about 60-90 minutes).

~Roll out dough onto a lightly floured surface about 1/2 inch thick.

~Cut out donuts with a donut cutter and place onto a cookie sheet.

~Lightly cover with a clean damp tea towel or plastic wrap until dough doubles in size (about 45-60 minutes).

~Heat up several inches of vegetable oil to 375 degrees into a large heavy bottom skillet.

~Gently place four to six donuts into hot oil and fry for about 40-50 seconds per side.

~Remove from oil and place onto a cooling rack.

~Dip donuts into the white glaze while donuts are still hot.  Dip donuts into the chocolate glaze when donuts are cooled.

~Allow glaze to set (this only takes a couple minutes).

Glaze Directions:

~In a medium bowl, mix 4 cups powdered sugar, dash of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract together.

~Whisk in 1/2 cup whole milk until mixture is smooth (I like to whisk in a 1/8 of a cup a milk at a time, because sometimes I don't need the full 1/2 cup).

Chocolate Glaze:

*In a large bowl, sift 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa.

~Stir in 3-4 tablespoons whole milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Mock Kraft Caramels

 So soft and chewy.   I love using these for turtle brownies.   Also great dipping in chocolate.  Make great Christmas gifts. It does take about an hour to make these.  Make sure you keep stirring and don't turn the heat up to make them cook faster.

MOCK KRAFT CARAMELS

(makes 40-44 )

Ingredients:

*1 1/2 cup granulated sugar

*1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed

*1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk (1 1/2 cups)

*1 1/2 cups heavy cream

*3/4 cup light corn syrup

*1/2 cup butter

*1 teaspoon salt

*1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

~Line a 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper.

~In a heavy bottom medium saucepan, add 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk, 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, 3/4 cup light corn syrup, 1/2 cup butter, and 1 teaspoon salt and mix well.

~Oven medium heat, cook stirring often until the butter is melted and mixture is smooth (I find a heat-proof spatulas works the best).

~Add a clay thermometer and stir constantly until temperature reaches 240-243 degrees (this will take about an hour, but it's so worth it).

~Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

~Carefully pour into prepared pan.

~Lightly sprinkle sea salt over top (optional).

~Allow to completely cool before cutting (about 4 hours)

Mock Chick-fil-a Grilled Chicken Club

 I add pickles to my grilled club even though the original sandwich doesn't have them.   I also use provolone cheese for my husband, because he doesn't like things that are spicy.

MOCK CHICK-FIL-A GRILLED CHICKEN CLUB 

(serves 4)

Marinade Ingredients:

*1/2 cup dill pickle juice

*1/4 cup milk (I prefer buttermilk)

*1 tablespoon powdered sugar 

*1 teaspoon garlic powder

*1 teaspoon onion powder

*1 teaspoon smoked paprika

*1 teaspoon ground black pepper 

*2 teaspoon salt

Sauce Ingredients:

*1/2 cup mayo

*1/8 cup BBQ sauce

*2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 

*1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

*1/8 teaspoon honey (I like to use hot honey)

*1 heaping tablespoon dijon mustard 

Chicken Sandwich Ingredients:

*4 skinless, boneless  chicken breasts

*8 slices pepper jack cheese 

*8 slices bacon

*4 hamburger buns

*lettuce

*tomato, sliced

*dill pickles (optional)

Marinade Directions:

~In a gallon sized zip-loc bag, add 1/2 cup dill pickle juice, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, and 2 teaspoon salt.  Seal bag and mix ingredients.

~Pound chicken breast out to about 1- 1 1/2 inches  thick.

~Add chicken to marinade and seal bag.

~Refrigerate for a least 1 hour or up to 5.

Sauce Directions:

In a small bowl, whisk 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/8 cup bbq sauce, 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon smoke paprika, 1/8 teaspoon honey, and 1 heaping tablespoon dijon mustard until well combined.

~Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Chicken Sandwich Directions:

~In a large skillet, cook 8 slices of bacon until crisp (or cook in oven).

~Remove from heat and place bacon on a paper towel lined plate.

~Remove chicken from marinade and grill over medium heat until done (internal temp 165 degrees).

~Grill bun until toasty.

~Spread some sauce on the bottom and top bun.

~Place a piece of lettuce over sauce on bottom bun.

~Place a slice of tomato over the tomato.

~Place chicken breast over tomato.

~Place 2 slices of pepper jack cheese over top of chicken.

~Place pickles over top of cheese (optional). 

~Place top bun over top and enjoy.

Mock Outback Onion Dipping Sauce

 I love this to dip my onion rings in it, but it's also good with cheese sticks and veggies.

MOCK OUTBACK ONION DIPPING SAUCE

Ingredients:

*1/2 cup mayonnaise 

*2 tablespoons creamy horseradish

*2 teaspoons ketchup 

*1/4 teaspoon paprika

*1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

*1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

*1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 

*1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

~In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons creamy horseradish, 2 teaspoons ketchup, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well combined.

~Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, better overnight.

Mock Manwich Sloppy Joes

 I have a sloppy Joe recipe that I love, but some members in my family prefer Manwich.  This tastes like it, but with all natural ingredients.

MOCK MANWICH SLOPPY JOES

(serves 6)

Ingredients:

*1 pound ground beef (80/20)

*1/4  cup yellow onion, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried minced onion)

*1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce 

*1 cup ketchup

*1 tablespoon green bell pepper, diced fine

*1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried minced garlic) 

*1/4 teaspoon celery seed

*1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard

*1/2 teaspoon chili powder

*6 hamburger buns

Directions:

~In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound ground beef and 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion, breaking up ground beef as it cooks.

~Once ground beef is browned, add 1 minced garlic clove and cook for 1 more minute.

~Drain any excess grease.

~Add in 8 ounce can tomato sauce, 1 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon finely chopped green bell pepper, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, stir until well mixed.

~Bring mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer for 15 minutes.

~Serve over hamburger buns.

Mock Chipotle Chicken Al Patsor Bowl

 I love to put this over rice and sprinkle some Queso Fresco Cheese over it.  

MOCK CHIPOTLE CHICKEN AL PASTOR

(serves 4-6)

Marinade Ingredients:

*2 teaspoons kosher salt

*1 teaspoon ground black pepper

*1 teaspoon cumin

*4 garlic cloves

*1 tablespoons chili powder

*1 (7 ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (leaving one out for the sauce)

*3/4 cup water

*8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (can use breasts if preferred)

Sauce Ingredients:

*2 guajillo chilies

*1 ancho chilie

*6 morita chiles

*1 teaspoon Mexican oregano

*1 teaspoon salt

*1 teaspoon cumin

*1/3 cup pineapple juice

*1 tablespoon paprika (or achiote powder)

*2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

*2 tablespoons water

*2 teaspoons granulated sugar

*1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce

*freshly squeezed lime juice from 1-2 limes

*2-4 tablespoons fresh cilantro

Topping Ingredients: (pick what you want)

*2 cups cooked rice

*1 green pepper, sliced and grilled

*1 red pepper, sliced and grilled

*1 large white onion, grilled

*black beans

*shredded lettuce

*corn

*1/2 cup guacamole 

*salsa or pico de Gallo

*queso fresco cheese, shredded (or Monterey Jack Cheese)

*sour cream

Marinade Directions:

~Mix 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon cumin, 4 garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon chili powder,  1 (7 ounce) can adobe pepperse (minus 1 pepper), and 3/4 cup water into a blender.

~Blend until well mixed

~Place 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs and sauce into a zip-loc bag and seal.

~Refrigerate for at least 8-12 hours.

Sauce Ingredients:

~Cut open 2 chilies, 1 ancho chile, and  6 morita chilies, and remove all the seeds.

~Pour water into a saucepan and put the peppers in.

~Bring to a boil.

~Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

~Drain water and place peppers, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/3 cup pineapple juice, 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons 2 teaspoons water, sugar, and 1 chipotle pepper in adobe sauce, into a blender.

~Blend on high until smooth.

Time To Put It Together:

~Remove chicken thighs from marinade.

~In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chicken thighs until done, flipping half way through (internal temperature 165 degrees).

~Remove from heat and allow to sit for 2 minutes.

~Cut into bite size pieces.

~In a large bowl,  mix lime juice, cilantro, sauce and grilled chicken together.

~Serve over rice and put whatever toppings you want on it.

Mock Cracker Jacks

 It is best to prep your ingredients before starting the recipe.    I like to take my bag sealer and cut squares in waxed paper.  I seal 3 edges and then put a small toy or sticker in it.  I then seal up the last edge.   I make little bags of cracker jacks and then put the toy surprise in it.   The kids and adults love it.  

MOCK CRACKER JACKS

 (makes about cups)

Ingredients:

*2j tablespoons vegetable oil (for popping popcorn)

*1/4  cup + 2 tablespoons popcorn kernels (I actually make it just a little under a 1/2 cup)

*1 1/2 cups salted spanish peanuts 

*1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces (for easier melting)

*1 cup brown sugar, packed

*1/8 cup light corn syrup 

*1/4 cup molasses 

*1 teaspoon salt

*1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 

*1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Directions:

~Pop the popcorn in the vegetable oil until done.

~Remove any kernels that haven't popped.

~Place popped corn and Spanish peanuts into a large bowl.

~Preheat oven to 250 degrees.

~Spray 2 large cookie sheets with cooking spray or lightly grease.

~In a small saucepan, stir in butter, browns sugar, molasses, corn syrup and salt over medium heat until the butter melts.

~Add a candy thermometer if you have one.

~Allow mixture to cook (without stirring) until it reaches 248 degrees (or about 3 -5 minutes once it starts to boil).

~Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and baking soda.

~Pour it immediately over the popcorn and Spanish peanuts stirring until well coated.

~Transfer unto prepared pans.

~Bake for 30 minutes, stirring half way through.

~Remove from oven and allow to cool completely (it will crisp up as it cools).

Mock Hamburger Helper

 I do not like hamburger helper, but I love this.  I love that this is a one pot meal.

Normally I make this in my cast iron pan, but this one was being delivered to a friend.

COPY CAT HAMBURGER HELPER

(serves 6)

Ingredients:

*5 slices bacon, cut into small pieces (optional, but so good)

*1 pound ground beef (I use 80/20)

*1 small yellow onion, chopped

*1/2 green bell pepper, chopped small

*2 cups whole milk

*1 cup cold water

*1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

*2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

*1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar

*1 teaspoon salt

*1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

*1 teaspoon ground oregano 

*1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes

*1 teaspoon garlic powder

*1/2 teaspoon chili powder

*1 teaspoon paprika

*2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or 1 cup mozzarella and 1 cup cheddar)

*8 slices provolone cheese

Directions:

~Cook 5 slices bacon until crispy.

~Remove from pan and set aside.

~Take a paper towel and remove as much bacon grease as you can (you want to leave a little).

~Brown 1 pound ground beef in a large skillet.

~Add 1 chopped onion,  and  1/2 chopped green pepper, cook until tender.

~Drain any fat from pan.

~Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground back pepper, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon and chili powder and stir for 15-30 seconds.

~Add water, 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce and stir until mixed.

~Add 2 cups elbow macaroni and stir.

~Bring mixture to a low boil.

~Reduce heat and cover.

~Cook for about 9-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.

~Preheat oven to 350 degrees while pasta is cooking.

~Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheese.

~Add 8 slices provolone cheese in single layer on top of mixture.

~Sprinkle crumbled bacon over top of cheese.

~Bake uncovered for about 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Mock Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl

 You can make a burrito out of this if you prefer.   Just make as directed below and put into a large flour tortilla, and wrap up.  BTW, this works great for a burrito bar.

MOCK CHIPOTLE CHICKEN BURRITO BOWL

(serves 6)

Marinade Ingredients:

*3 boneless, skinless breasts or 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

*1 teaspoon cumin powder

*1/4 teaspoon onion powder

*1 teaspoon dried oregano (I used Mexican oregano)

*1 tablespoon chili powder 

*2 teaspoon kosher salt

*1 teaspoon ground black pepper

*2 tablespoon vegetal oil or olive oil

*1 (7 ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

*3 garlic cloves, minced

*1 cup water

Topping Ingredients (pick which ones you want)

*2 cups cooked white or Mexican rice

*1 1/2 cups Pico de Gallo  or salsa 

*1 (6 ounce) package white sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

*1 (8 ounce) package Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 

*1 (15.5 ounce) can white sweet corn, drained

*1 (15.5 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained 

*lettuce, shredded

*1 red bell  pepper,  sliced and seeds removed

*1 green bell pepper sliced and seeds removed

*1 white onion, sliced

*guacamole

*queso blanco 

*sour cream

Marinade Directions:

~Place 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 (7 ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobe sauce, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 cup water in  a gallon size zip-loc bag

~Seal bag and mix the ingredients.

~Open and place 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or boneless, skinless chicken thighs in marinade.  

~Place in refrigerator for at least 6 hours before using.

Lets Make the burrito bowls:

~Heat up a griddle, grill, or cast-iron pan over medium heat.

~Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess marinade.

~Place onto hot pan/grill and cook on both sides until chicken is done.

~Remove from pan/grill and allow to rest for five minutes.

~Cut up into bite size pieces.

~Place cooked rice in bowl.

~Add chicken 

~Add desired toppings

Mock Chipotle Queso Blanco

 I do not make this spicy (ok maybe a small amount of kick), but you can make it as spicy as you want.  This is a great dip of nachos  or over tacos.  

MOCK CHIPOTLE QUESO BLANCO

Ingredients:

*2 cups whole milk

*1 tablespoon yellow onion, chopped fine

*1-2 tablespoons Serrano pepper, seeds removed and chopped fine

*1 tablespoon poblano pepper, seed removed and finely chopped

*1 teaspoon chipotle pepper, seeds removed and chopped fine (get one from a can of chipotles peppers in adobo sauce)

*1 garlic clove, minced

*3 tablespoons cornstarch

*1/4 cup water

*1 cup sour cream

*2 cups Monterey jack cheese, grated

*1/3 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, grated

*1 tablespoon tomato, seed removed, and chopped small

*1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

~Shred the cheeses and mix together.

~In a medium sauce pan, over medium heat pour in milk.

~Add in onion,  serrano peppers, poblano peppers, chipotle pepper, and garlic.

~In a cup or small bowl, whisk water and cornstarch together until smooth.

~Whisk into milk.

~Bring milk to a high boil, whisking very often until thickened.

~Turn down heat to a lowest heat and whisk in sour cream until well incorporated.

~Whisk in cheese 1/2 cup at a time, whisking until melted between additions.

~Stir in chopped tomato.

~Serve warm or cooled.  

Mock Arby's Beef & Cheddar Sandwich

 If you use deli roast beef these taste more like Arby's, only better.  It will taste the best if you use thinly sliced left over roast beef.

MOCK ARBY'S BEEF & CHEDDAR SANDWICH

(serves 4)

Ingredients:

*4 good quality onion rolls 

*2-4 pounds thinly sliced roast beef (homemade or store bought)

*Arby's sauce or Catalina dressing

*Horsey sauce

*1 cup Cheese Wiz or Fritos mild cheddar cheese

*1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

*1-2 tablespoon milk (only if you need to thin the cheese out)

Directions:

~Toast insides of onion rolls and set aside

~In a small saucepan, over low heat, warm up  cheese, garlic powder, and milk until smooth.

~Warm up roast beef.

~Layer 1/2-1 pound of warm roast beef over bottom bun.

~Drizzle Arby sauce/Catalina dressing over top of roast beef.

~Drizzle horsey serve over roast beef.

~Drizzle desired amount of melted cheese over top next.

~Place on top bun and enjoy.

*

Mock Arby's Sauce & Horsey Sauce

 The stores do sell bottles of these, but it's so easy and much cheaper to make them.

                                                       Arby sauce

Horsey Sauce

MOCK ARBY'S SAUCE

Ingredients:

*1/2 cup ketchup

*1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

*1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

*1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

*1/4 teaspoon onion powder

*1/4 teaspoon paprika

*1/4 teaspoon salt

*1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

*2 tablespoons light brown sugar

Sauce Directions:

~Whisk all the ingredients in a small bowl until mixed well.

~Place in a small container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using (helps the flavors meld).

Horsey Sauce Ingredients:

*1 cup mayonnaise

*1 tablespoon white distilled vinegar

*1 tablespoon granulated sugar

*2 tablespoons fresh horseradish 

*1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Horsey Directions:

~Whisk all the ingredients in a small bowl until mixed well.

~Place into a small container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using.

Mock Pizza Hut Pan Pizza

This meal takes some planning.  Only because the dough is best if you let it set for 12-24 hours.  You can make it in 12 hours, but it's a better crust the longer you let it sit.  It will even work after a couple hours, it just won't be like Pizza Hut crust.

MOCK PIZZA HUT PAN PIZZA

(8 slices)

Crust Ingredients:

*2 cups bread flour (11 ounces)

*1 teaspoon salt

*1 teaspoon active dry yeast

*1 cup warm water (between 105-110 degrees)

Pizza Sauce Ingredients:

*1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste

*1/2 cup warm water

*4 tablespoons fresh grated parmesan cheese (optional)

*2 garlic cloves, minced

*1 teaspoons onion powder

*1 teaspoon salt

*1/2 teaspoon dried basil

*1/2 teaspoon black pepper

*1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

*1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

*1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram

*1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Topping Ingredients:

*1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

*3/4 cup brick cheese or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 

*fresh pepperoni or whatever is your favorite toppings

Fairy Dust Ingredients:

*1 tablespoon spoon dreid oregano

*1 tablespoon freshly grated parmesan cheese

*1 tablespoon garlic powder

Crust Directions:

~In a large mixing bowl, whisk flour, salt & yeast together. 

~Stir in warm water until flour is mixed in.

~Knead for just about 30-60 seconds.

~Grease a pie place or bowl and place dough in it.

~Flatten dough out to reach the sides (dough will be sticky).

~Spray the top of the dough with cooking spray or rub a very small amount of oil over the top.

~Cover and refrigerate for 12-24 hours (the longer the better).

Pizza Sauce Directions:

~In a small bowl, mix all the ingredients.

~Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (I make when I make the crust).

Fairy Dust Directions:

~In a small bowl, whisk ingredients together and set aside.

Let put the Pizza together.

~Grease a large (10") cast iron pan with vegetable oil (or any high heat oil).

~Put crust into prepared cast iron pan and gently press towards the side of the pans (don't worry if it springs back and doesn't touch sides).

~Allow dough to sit for 10-15 minutes, and then press towards the sides again (it should stay better this time).

~Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise for 90 minutes,

~Place bottom rack of oven to the bottom position.

~Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

~Take 1/2-3/4 cup of pizza sauce and pour into center of dough.

~Spread sauce out to with in 1/2 inch of the edges. 

~Sprinkle brick cheese or Monterey Jack cheese on the outer edge of the dough abasing the edge of the pan.

~Gently press the cheese down on the sides of the pan (this will give that crunchy edge).

~Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the pizza (not over the area that has the brick cheese on it).

~Place whatever toppings you want on your pizza.

~Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is a golden brown and bubbling.

~Remove from oven.

~Allow to cool for 3-4 minutes or until bubbling stops.

~Slide a knife or and offset spatula around the edges of the pizza.

~Gently bring up the pizza to look underneath it.  

~If the crust isn't golden brown and crispy, then turn the burner on your stove to medium-heat.  

~Cook for 1-5 minutes or until bottom crust is crispy and golden brown, checking it often.

~Remove pizza from pan and place on a cooling rack to cool for 5-10 minutes.

~Sprinkle with desired amount of fairy dust.

~Slice and enjoy.

Mock Chick Fil-a Grilled Chicken Sandwich Delux

If you are not a pickle lover, don't let the pickle juice scare you.   It won't come out tasting like dill pickles.   If you don't believe me, then substitute with apple cider vinegar.  I like to pair this with either grilled steak fries, sweet potato fries, or waffle fries.

GRILLED CHICKEN SANDWICH DELUX

(makes 4)

Ingredients:

*2 chicken breasts

*1/2 cup dill pickle juice or 1/4 cup dill pickle juice

*1/2 cup water

*1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder

*1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder

*1 teaspoon smoked paprika (can use paprika)

*1/4 cup orange juice

*1/4 cup chicken stock

*1 tablespoon molasses

*1 tablespoon kosher salt

*1 tablespoon grape juice 

*2 hamburger buns

*4 slices colby jack cheese

*lettuce

*tomato, sliced

*8 slices bacon, cooked crisp

*Dill pickle slices (optional)

*Bleu cheese crumbles (optional)

Directions:

~Cut chicken breast in half lengthwise and then butterfly.

~In a large zip-loc bag mix dill pickle juice, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, orange juice, chicken stock, molasses, kosher salt, and grape juice.

~Add the  chicken breasts to marinade, seal bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

~Heat grill to medium-high (or griddle).

~Brush grates with olive oil.

~Cook chicken breast for 2-4 minutes (depending on how thick the chicken is).

~Flip chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 175 degrees.

~Toast bun until golden brown.

~Remove from heat.

~Add lettuce, tomato, and dill pickle.

~Add chicken and bacon.

~Spread desired condiment on top bun (I like to use honey roasted bbq sauce)

Mock Chick Fil-a Honey Roasted BBQ Sauce

 I use this recipe for my grilled chicken sandwiches.  Also goes great on chicken.  Tastes like Chick-fil-a honey roasted bbq dipping sauce.

HONEY ROASTED BBQ SAUCE

(makes 2 )

Ingredients:

*1/2 cup vegetable oil

*1/3 cup honey

*2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

*2 teaspoons ketchup

*2 teaspoons granulated sugar

*1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

*1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

*1/2 teaspoon salt

*1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

*1/4 teaspoon onion powder

*1/4 cup white vinegar

*1 teaspoon hickory liquid smoke flavoring 

*1/2 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

*2 egg yolks

*2 teaspoons water 

*2 tablespoons cornstarch

Directions:

~In a medium saucepan, combine, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 1/3 cup honey, 2 tablespoons dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons ketchup, 2 teaspoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder together.

~Cook over medium heat, bringing mixture to a boil, stirring continuously.

~Remove from heat and allow to cool for 10 minutes.

~As mixture is cooling, whisk 1/4 cup vinegar, 2 teaspoons water, 1 teaspoon liquid smoke, and 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice together.

~Slowly drizzle cooled bbq mixture into egg mixture, whisking quickly as you do.

~Add in 2 tablespoons cornstarch to desired thickness.