Inside BruCrew Life
menu icon
subscribe
search icon
×

Chicken Pasta Bake

By · PUBLISHED · 85 Comments

Make dinner time easy and delicious with this Chicken Pasta Bake! Packed with chicken and veggies, this cheesy dish is ready to enjoy in less than 45 minutes. Try out this cozy family favorite today!

A black plate with a serving of baked pasta on it.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Our family is a huge fan of pasta dinners. While our kids were in school, I found those meals to be the perfect ones to make during the week.

Pasta meals are generally inexpensive, easy to make, and delicious. Meals like chicken ranch pasta bake, buffalo chicken pasta, and ham and pasta casserole are a few of our favorites.

If you are looking for a gluten free option, try this cheesy chicken and rice casserole instead. Great flavors without the noodles.

Why You Will Love this Cheesy Pasta Bake

We loaded this cheesy casserole with plenty of veggies and chicken. You are going to love how easy it is to assemble and how delicious it is. This comfort food always gets two thumbs up from everyone at our table.

  • Easy Preparation - Chicken pasta bake is the perfect meal for busy weeknights. It's easy to make and can be on the table in 45 minutes.
  • Family Friendly Meal - Kids and adults alike love it. It's a comforting and filling dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table.
  • Comfort Food Classic - There's nothing quite like a gooey cheese casserole. It's warm and hearty and will give you that cozy feeling.
  • Packed with Flavor - The combination of chicken, pasta, and a rich creamy cheese sauce creates a satisfying taste.
  • Great Leftovers - You can have it for lunch or dinner the next day, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
...

Read More

M&M Brownies

By · PUBLISHED · 43 Comments

Just like your favorite candies, these M&M Brownies will "melt in your mouth." This fudgy brownie recipe loaded with candy is perfect for weeknight desserts, birthday parties, or lunchbox treats.

A stack of 6 brownies with colorful candies inside and on top.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Brownies are one of those desserts that just about everyone loves. Whether you make brownies from a box or make homemade brownies, they satisfy that chocolate craving.

There are so many ways to change up a brownie. We love adding a chocolate topping to these zebra brownies and these cosmic brownies. Or you can load them with lots of toppings like caramel marshmallow brownies, Oreo brownies, and our favorite fudgy M&M brownies. 

Why You Will Love Brownies with M&M's

  • Rich and fudgy. This homemade brownie recipe is made with cocoa powder and brown sugar, making them rich and delicious.
  • Loaded with candy. Adding mini chocolate candies gives the brownies a fun crunch and a bigger chocolate flavor. For a fun twist, use your favorite version of M&M's.
  • Easy to make. You can make a pan of brownies using one bowl and simple ingredients you probably have in your kitchen right now.
  • Great party dessert. They are great for parties, picnics, or a quiet night at home. Everyone always asks for this recipe when we bring them with us.
...

Read More

Lemon Cream Cheese Pie

By · PUBLISHED · 43 Comments

This easy Lemon Cream Cheese Pie has layers of no bake cheesecake, lemon pudding, and fresh berries. The subtle lemon flavor and juicy berries makes this a refreshing dessert on a hot summer day.

A slice of lemon pie topped with berries on a white plate.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Why Lemon Pudding Pie Works

Over the years, I have learned to love lemon desserts. We make these lemon bars, this lemon poke cake, and these lemon meringue cupcakes quite often.

Lemon is such a classic summer flavor. There is nothing like a glass of frosted lemonade to cool you off from the summer heat. So why not enjoy that flavor in a creamy pie?

We had a few extra boxes of raspberries and blueberries in the fridge. So, I decided to use them as a red and blue topping on an easy lemon cream pie. It was an instant hit with everyone in our Bible study.

  • Easy to make. The layers in this pie are easy to whip up. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sun.
  • Creamy and smooth. The combination of creamy cheesecake filling and smooth lemon pudding works so well together.
  • Light and cool. Lemon desserts often have a tangy flavor that is so refreshing on a hot summer day.
  • Perfect for any party. This lemon cream cheese pie pie will bring a light and summer vibe to all your picnics and parties. It's also a great dessert for 4th of July.
...

Read More

Tortilla Pizza Roll Ups

By · PUBLISHED · 54 Comments

Get the party started with a tray of Tortilla Pizza Roll Ups. Loaded with your favorite pizza toppings, these bite sized appetizers are easy to make and taste amazing.

Three pizza roll ups on a plate with a bowl of pizza sauce.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

We think finger foods are the best part about any party. That's why we created "snacks giving" - a few days a year where we go all out on appetizers.

From cheesy chicken sliders, buffalo chicken pinwheels, and parmesan chicken rolls, our trays are loaded with so many delicious appetizers. And of course it's not a party without good company and fun games. So, we invite friends and family over for a fun evening of snacks, games, and conversation.

Whether you are celebrating a birthday, a big game, or an event, there is just something special about bringing people together with some fun food.

Why Pizza Roll Ups are the Perfect Snack

Our family loves all kind of pizza inspired recipes. Pizza bites and tomato basil pizza dip always are on the top of the finger food list. But these pizza tortilla roll ups are making their way to the top for so many reasons.

  • Easy to Make - You can make a bunch of these rolls in about 10 minutes because there is no baking or cooking required.
  • Inexpensive - This appetizer is a cheap way to fill a tray and to feed a crowd.
  • Fun Topping Choices - Everyone has different things they love on pizza. These pizza roll ups can be made with all types of toppings to please everyone.
  • Great for Parties and Picnics - Whether you are headed to a summer picnic, hosting a game day party, or just want a simple appetizer, these rolls are the perfect choice.
...

Read More

Healthy Buffalo Chicken Wraps

By · PUBLISHED · Leave a Comment

When it comes to flavor, this Healthy Buffalo Chicken Wrap recipe is out of this world. It has all the buffalo flavors you love but with less carbs and calories than the typical fried chicken wrap.

Two chicken wraps filled and stacked on top of each other.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Everyone in our family loves anything and everything made with buffalo chicken.

Some of our favorites over the years are buffalo chicken chips, gooey buffalo sliders, cheesy buffalo tots, and our ultimate buffalo chicken pasta!

The problem with these dishes is that they can be loaded with calories. This healthy buffalo chicken wrap is the perfect solution to enjoy all the great flavors without the extra carbs and calories.

Why Make a Healthy Wrap

You don't have to sacrifice taste for health because this chicken wrap has all the buffalo flavors you crave, but with less carbs and calories. Say goodbye to boring healthy meals and hello to a dinner that's out of this world!

  • Quick and Easy - This meal is can be made in less than 20 minutes and is perfect for busy nights. It can be done in less than 10 minutes if you have chicken already cooked up!
  • Full of Flavor - If you love the buffalo chicken flavor then this will be your new favorite recipe!
  • Lower in Calories - This healthy wrap is lower in calories and fat than your typical buffalo sandwich. The chicken is cooked in a skillet with very little oil and no breading. The tortilla wrap is low in carbs making it perfect for keto or low carb diets.
  • Made to Order - Whether you prefer the traditional blue cheese or homemade ranch dressing. This chicken wrap can be made the way you like it.
...

Read More

Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

By · PUBLISHED · 35 Comments

Our Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are an easy treat! Soft and chewy, they’re loaded with Reese's Pieces and baking chips for the ultimate sweet snack. Plus, they’re simple to make – just mix, spread, and bake! It doesn't get any easier than that.

A stack of peanut butter bars with Reese's pieces on a white plate.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

What Make Peanut Butter Bars

We make these peanut butter cookies all the time. The sweet and salty flavor makes them a fan favorite. But some days I don't want to spend time scooping and baking multiple batches of cookies.

That's when I make a pan of peanut butter cookie bars instead. You are going to love how easy it is to mix the dough and bake it one pan. They are ready from start to finish in around 30 minutes.

These cookie bars have the best peanut butter flavor and are loaded with the Reese's Pieces and baking chips. The satisfying crunch and texture will have you coming back for more.

  • No chill time needed. You can bake the bars as soon as you make the dough.
  • Soft and crunchy. The crunchiness of the candy shell and the softness of the cookie is so irresistible.
  • Loaded with flavor. Plenty of peanut butter, candies, and baking chips means each square has lots of goodness.
  • Great last minute treat. The dough comes together in minutes, so you can have a pan ready in under 30 minutes.

If you love peanut butter and Reese's candies, you need to make a pan of these peanut butter bars right away!

...

Read More

Marshmallow Buttercream

By · PUBLISHED · 32 Comments

Get ready to add the perfect touch to your cupcakes and cookies with our fluffy Marshmallow Buttercream! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this homemade frosting recipe in no time. It's a sweet treat that everyone will love.

A swirl of buttercream in a red and blue bowl.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

 My baking style can be described as semi-homemade with flair. I have no shame in using store bought cake mixes. They are easy to turn into fancy desserts that look like they came from a bakery.

My one exception is the topping. Homemade frosting is my secret weapon to making a box cake mix taste absolutely incredible. I use this vanilla frosting recipe and this salted caramel frosting all the time.

Why Make Fluff Frosting

Another one of my favorite toppings is this light and fluffy marshmallow buttercream. The silky smooth texture and sweetness comes from adding an entire jar of marshmallow fluff to the frosting.

The best thing about making your own buttercream is that you control what goes in it. There are no unnecessary ingredients or preservatives in this sweet topping. Plus, you can adjust the amount of salt to balance out the sweetness.

Marshmallow buttercream can be used in so many ways. The smooth texture makes it easy to spread on cakes and cupcakes. But it can also be swirled on this vanilla mug cake or sandwiched in chewy brownie cookies.

...

Read More

Spinach Caprese Salad

By · PUBLISHED · 2 Comments

Get dinner on the table quickly with this Spinach Caprese Salad! Made with tomatoes, mozzarella and pasta, it's a simple yet flavorful dish that everyone will love. Don't forget the balsamic dressing – it makes all the difference!

Two white bowls filled with spinach salad and chicken.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

During the summer months we eat a lot of salads for dinner.  Most of the time we keep it simple and just eat mixed greens topped with grilled chicken.

But every so often I get the urge to change it up. I love adding this strawberry spinach salad with chicken, this spinach apple salad, or this spinach Caprese salad to our salad rotations. They are my favorite ways to use up a jar of honey balsamic dressing.

Why Make This Spinach Salad

You are going to enjoy the light and healthy flavors that are packed into this easy spinach salad. Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and balsamic dressing are a delightful combo.

This salad takes the traditional Caprese salad to a whole new level by adding juicy grilled chicken and pasta noodles. Adding the additional ingredients makes it a complete meal that will keep you full longer.

Made with fresh ingredients and healthy protein, this salad is the perfect dish to make for summer picnics or potlucks.

...

Read More

Honey Balsamic Dressing

By · PUBLISHED · 7 Comments

Enhance your salads with a delicious, homemade Honey Balsamic Dressing! This sweet and tangy vinaigrette is easy to make in just 5 minutes - giving you the perfect flavor for your greens. Plus, you can use it as a marinade for chicken.

Salad dressing drizzling onto a bowl of veggie salad.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Why Make Homemade Dressing

One of my favorite ways to dress up a salad is with a delicious salad dressing. We usually keep a jar of honey balsamic vinaigrette in our kitchen at all times because it adds so much flavor to a spinach caprese salad or veggie salad.

Why spend money on store bought salad dressings when you can create your own blend in minutes? Homemade salad dressing is actually really easy to make, and it always tastes better too.  

  • Sweet and tangy flavor. The sweetness from the honey blends perfectly with the tartness of the balsamic vinegar creating a delicious flavor your friends and family will love. No need to sacrifice on quality when you make your own dressing; homemade doesn't mean bland!
  • Easy to customize the flavors. Add more vinegar for a tangier twist! Drizzle in more honey for a sweeter flavor. It is easy to create a dressing that's perfectly tailored to your taste buds.
  • Control over the ingredients. Most store bought dressings are full of preservatives, additives, and extra ingredients that are not necessary. When you make your own dressing, you control what goes into the jar.
  • Saves money. Most ingredients like vinegar, oil, herbs, spices, and sweeteners can usually be found in your kitchen pantry. By using ingredients that you already have, you can avoid the higher costs associated with store bought dressings.

Remember, making homemade dressings is all about having fun and trying new things. So don't be afraid to experiment and adjust the ingredients to your taste. Once you start making your own salad dressings, you won't want to use store bought again.

...

Read More

Strawberry Fluff Salad

By · PUBLISHED · 58 Comments

Strawberry Fluff Salad is the perfect summertime dessert. It’s light, fluffy, and made with fresh strawberries and angel food cake. It only takes minutes to make, so you can whip it up at the last second for your next picnic or barbecue!

Try this amazing chocolate fluff salad for the chocolate lover's in your life.

A red bowl filled with strawberry fluff salad and topped with fresh berries.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Strawberry Shortcake Fluff

Fluff salads are a popular no bake dessert during the summer. Most families have a recipe that has been handed down from their grandma. They are the perfect side dish to share at picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings.

One our favorite versions is this banana split fluff. Adding fresh fruit to the creamy fluff adds a fun burst of flavor and freshness to the dish. Since we had an extra box of strawberries in the fridge, I changed things up and added them to a strawberry fluff.

With its light pink color, smooth texture, and delicious taste, this shortcake salad will have you coming back for another scoop. Your summer parties will never be the same again when you serve this strawberry fluff salad!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in minutes. In under 10 minutes, you can have a bowl of this creamy goodness chilling in your fridge. All you need are just 6 simple ingredients.
  • It is a fun pink color. The pretty pink hue and bright red berries make the salad stand out on any table.
  • Light and refreshing. It is a no bake dessert option, which makes it great during the hot months. The cool texture paired with the juicy strawberries tastes so good on a warm summer day.
  • Great side dish for parties. This strawberry pudding dessert is a delicious choice to bring to summer picnics or parties. The sweet flavor pairs well with savory options such as burgers, grilled chicken, or pulled pork.
...

Read More