Blog - Inside BruCrew Life

Chocolate Coconut Bundt Cake

This Chocolate Coconut Bundt Cake is so good you'll wonder how you ever lived without it! The dark chocolate cake has a surprise coconut tunnel in the middle! And to top it all off, it's covered in smooth chocolate ganache, which takes it to the next level.

A white plate with a slice of chocolate coconut cake on it.

This bundt cake recipe was first published in February 2015. It was updated and republished with new photos and tips in February 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

There's something about chocolate and coconut that makes me happy. I'm really into the Mounds candy bar vibe. The way the rich chocolate pairs with the sweet coconut is just incredible. I seriously can't get enough of it!

Usually, when I have a coconut craving, I make chocolate coconut bars or coconut chocolate chip cookies. This time, however, I felt the urge for cake.

Not just any cake...a chocolate bundt cake with a surprise coconut center and a decadent chocolate topping. Trust me, this one is a must-make for coconut lovers!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Chocolate + Coconut = Perfection! It's like a Mounds bar but in cake form. Enough said.
Hidden Coconut Center. The sweet coconut filling brings delicious texture and flavor, making this dessert feel extra special!
Chocolate Ganache Topping. Sure, a naked cake is great, but that rich, glossy frosting takes it to the next level.
Great for Any Occasion. This cake is perfect for any event. It works well for birthdays, Easter, and Mother's Day. Or you can even enjoy it on a regular day, just because!
It's Stunning! Bundt cakes always look fancy with their pretty ridges, and the chocolate drizzle takes this one to the next level.

[Read more...]

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a family favorite made and loved by millions! It combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken dip with cheesy pasta, all baked in just 30 minutes. One bite, and you'll see why it's so popular!

Our buffalo chicken calzone is another quick and easy recipe everyone enjoys.

A scoop of buffalo pasta being lifted out of a pan.

The recipe for buffalo chicken pasta bake was first shared in October 2016. The post was updated with new photos and tips and republished in February 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

We're big buffalo chicken fans over here. Our kids request this easy buffalo chicken dip for every movie and game night. So, one day, I thought, "Why not turn it into dinner?" And boom, this cheesy, spicy casserole was born!

I always keep pasta, chicken, and cheese on hand to make this quick dinner in minutes. This pasta bake is perfect for busy nights; you can even prep it ahead of time and bake it when you're ready.

Whether you're a buffalo chicken fanatic or love an easy, cheesy dinner, this dish has something for everyone.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

With simple pantry staples, you can quickly prepare this dish. Using rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken makes it even easier!
This is a delicious kid-approved meal! While hot sauce has a kick, you can adjust the spice level to suit everyone's taste. The creamy texture balances the heat, so even those who don't like spicy food will love it.
It is perfect for a crowd! Bring it to game nights, potlucks, or Super Bowl parties, and watch it disappear in minutes!
It's also great for meal prepping. Leftovers reheat beautifully so that you can enjoy them for lunch the next day.

" This is one of my family's FAVORITE, most requested dishes! I cook a bunch of chicken in the Instant Pot first and use it for recipes throughout the week. It is cheesy, creamy, and delicious, with a great kick."

- Jenny

[Read more...]

Coconut Shrimp Curry

This creamy and healthy coconut shrimp curry is loaded with bold flavors and spices. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's the perfect go-to meal for busy nights. So get ready for a quick meal with a delicious flavor.

This shrimp curry was first published in January 2018. The post was updated with new tips and information in January 2025.

Curry Shrimp

Until a few years ago, I thought curry wasn't for me-the funny thing is, I'd never actually tried it! I just assumed it wasn't my thing. That all changed during a random trip to IKEA. While there, I tried their coconut curry veggie balls, and wow, was I missing out!

Once I got home, I couldn't wait to make a healthy version of that delicious sauce. Eating healthy doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. I used light coconut milk and veggies to make a creamy, lean and green meal.

This quick and easy shrimp curry with cauliflower rice has become one of my go-to meals. Whether you're a curry newbie like me or a seasoned fan, this recipe will impress everyone at your dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

One Pot Meal: You can make this easy recipe in under 30 minutes. It's the perfect weeknight dinner when life gets busy.
Healthy meets Tasty: Fresh veggies, protein-rich shrimp, and bold spices make this lean and green meal a delicious and nutritious option.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, adjust the spice, or swap shrimp for another protein.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers with tons of flavor throughout the week.

[Read more...]

Chicken Ravioli Bake

Our Chicken Ravioli Bake is an easy pasta casserole packed with chicken and veggies in a creamy Alfredo sauce. This cheesy dinner recipe will be a favorite with the whole family!

Ravioli lasagna being lifted out of a casserole dish.

This chicken Alfredo lasagna was initially published in March 2018. The post was updated with new tips and information in January 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Chicken Alfredo has always been one of my favorite comfort foods. Every year, my husband makes his homemade version for my birthday.

Over the years, I've found many easy and fun ways to use Alfredo sauce in recipes! Our chicken Alfredo calzones, chicken Alfredo enchiladas, and Alfredo French bread pizzas are always a hit with our kids.

For this bake, I changed our skillet Alfredo ravioli recipe. I layered the creamy chicken mixture with cooked ravioli and baked it to golden, bubbly perfection.

The kids devoured the pasta and then asked for seconds. This baked version is now our new family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Alfredo Bake

Comfort Food Without the Fuss: It's simple, satisfying, and perfect for feeding the family or sharing at a potluck.
Easy to Assemble: It's perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty and delicious meal on the dinner table fast.
Amazing Flavors: The pasta is loaded with cheese ravioli, chicken, veggies, and a creamy Alfredo sauce that ties it all together.

I made this tonight for dinner for my kids! Huge hit! Even with my picky 3-year-old, she usually won't even go near ravioli, but she gobbled this right up! Thanks for the amazing recipe, I might make this again tomorrow. LOL!

- Deb

[Read more...]

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

If you like buffalo chicken, you'll love these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers! These bell peppers are filled with a spicy chicken mixture, topped with cheese, and baked until gooey. Packed with flavor, they are a great way to add color and nutrition to your meal.

A metal tray filled with buffalo chicken stuffed bell peppers.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Buffalo Stuffed Peppers

Our family loves all things buffalo-flavored. Some of our favorites are buffalo chicken dip, buffalo chicken pasta, buffalo tots, and chicken pepper nachos. We always keep leftover rotisserie chicken in the freezer for these easy recipes.

This time, I took those flavors we love and gave them a healthier twist by stuffing them into large bell peppers. It's the perfect way to enjoy a full meal while still getting all the bold, zesty taste of our favorite appetizers! The best part is the meal comes together in minutes!

Why You'll Love This Easy Dinner

Easy to Make: This quick meal needs little prep and only a few ingredients. It is simple to put together and clean up.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The kick of buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and sweet bell peppers make this dish so tasty and satisfying.
Low Carb Alternative: Stuffed peppers are a satisfying and flavorful alternative for those watching their carb intake.
Customize to Taste: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to suit your family's preferences. Add extra veggies, use a different cheese, or top with fresh herbs for variety.

[Read more...]

Banana Cinnamon Cookies

These Banana Cinnamon Cookies are a delicious treat. With crispy edges, chewy centers, and a warm flavor, they're hard to resist. Packed with cinnamon chips, they're an excellent choice for holidays, back-to-school snacks, or a cozy winter day at home.

Five cinnamon banana cookies stacked on a plate.

This post was first published in September 2017. It was updated and then republished in January 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Crispy Banana Cookies

Baking has always been my favorite way to unwind, especially when life gets busy. The other day, I spotted some overripe bananas on the counter and knew it was time to turn them into something delicious.

While we love these peanut butter banana cookies, sometimes I like to change things up. This time, I added extra bananas and a bag of cinnamon chips I found in the pantry. The final result was truly magical!

These cookies have crispy edges, chewy centers, and the perfect balance of warm cinnamon and banana flavor. Although I usually prefer thick, cakey cookies, one bite of these chewy delights has me hooked on flat, crispy ones.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Perfect for Ripe Bananas - It's a great recipe for using up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
Warm Spice - Cinnamon adds a cozy, comforting warmth that pairs beautifully with the banana.
Perfect Texture - The combination of crispy edges and soft, chewy centers is cookie perfection.
Easy to Customize - Add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the mix-ins to enjoy a new twist every time.
Versatile Treat - Great as a quick breakfast, an after-school snack, or a sweet treat with coffee.
Freezer-Friendly - They freeze well, so you can always have a batch on hand for a quick treat.

"These cookies are absolutely AMAZING! I didn't have an cinnamon chips so I just went without but WOW! They are so good!" -Reegan

[Read more...]

Broccoli and Cheese Soup

If you love Panera broccoli cheese soup, this copycat recipe is a must-try! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender broccoli, it's better than the original. In under 30 minutes, you can have the perfect lunch or dinner for the whole family!

Two bowls of cheese and broccoli soup topped with cheese and onions.

This post was initially published in November 2013. The pictures were updated in September 2019 and then the post was republished with new tips in January 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Chilly weather means it's time for soup season! When our kids were in school, my husband and I enjoyed sneaking away for lunch dates. The Panera Bread broccoli cheddar soup in a bread bowl has always been a favorite.

Eating out every week can get expensive, so I decided to save money by making a big pot of soup at home instead. This easy broccoli soup was even better than I imagined!

It's cheesy and perfect for lunch or dinner. I love to pair it with garlic bread and this easy Asian salad for a meal that's as easy as it is delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy and Cheesy: This rich soup is full of melted cheese and soft broccoli. It is cozy and satisfying.
Affordable and Easy: Making this soup at home is easy on a budget and only requires simple ingredients.
Panera Vibes at Home: Who doesn't love a restaurant-style soup without the takeout cost?
Perfect for Any Day: Whether it's chilly outside or you just want comfort food, this soup is always a good choice.

"We made this tonight. My girls are very picky eater and they had three helpings ! Thank u so much for sharing this recipe. It was amazing!" -Danielle

[Read more...]

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal! This pasta casserole is packed with chicken, crispy bacon, and plenty of vegetables in a creamy ranch sauce. It's an easy dish that the whole family will love.

This post was first published in May 2014. The pictures were updated in March 2022, and the post was republished in January 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake

Pasta is my love language. For dinner, I always choose noodles smothered in sauce and melted cheese. We frequently make this homemade creamy mac and cheese and this buffalo chicken pasta recipe.

I could eat those two casseroles forever, but every now and then, I want to change things up. A few years ago, I tried a chicken bacon ranch sandwich at Subway. It inspired me to add those flavors to a cheesy pasta dinner.

Who doesn't love cheese, chicken, and bacon? This pasta bake has all your favorite ingredients and is so easy to make. This recipe was an instant hit with our whole family and has definitely become my go-to when I'm in the mood for pasta.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this casserole in your oven in no time.
Comfort food at its best: The creamy sauce and hearty ingredients make this pasta the ultimate cozy meal for any night of the week.
Family-friendly: This dish is a great way to please even the pickiest eaters. It's cheesy, hearty, and just plain delicious.
Perfect for leftovers: This pasta reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or next-day lunches.

"This is one of my go to recipes, just made it again today! So delicious never fails." -Natalie

[Read more...]

Low Carb Chili

This low carb chili is a family favorite during the cooler months. With lean beef and plenty of veggies, it's a healthy and nutritious option for lunch or dinner. Add your favorite toppings, and you'll never realize there are no beans in this keto soup.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Chili Without Beans

Growing up, chili was always a staple in our house. It's the perfect meal for a cold day or chilly evening. When I started eating low-carb, I thought I would have to say goodbye to this cozy dish because of the beans.

I have been working on new recipes to fit my lean and green eating habits this year. At the same time, I want to provide comfort food for my family. So far, this sausage kale soup and this chicken meatball stroganoff have been a hit.

We had a few unexpected cool days a few weeks ago, so I made a low-carb chili recipe without beans. Plenty of ground beef, tomatoes, green peppers, and zucchini made it hearty and satisfying.

This no bean chili has become a family favorite, so it is now my go-to meal during the winter.

Why You'll Love Beanless Chili

Low-Carb Friendly: Chili is a classic, comforting dish. This version retains all the hearty flavors without the beans. With 12 net carbs per serving, it will fit perfectly into your low-carb diet.
Packed with Veggies & Protein: The green peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, and ground beef provide a fresh and delicious flavor.
Adjustable Heat: You can dial up the spices for a fiery kick or keep it mild to suit your taste.
One Pot Dinner: Made in one pot in less than 30 minutes, this is an easy weeknight win.

[Read more...]

Peanut Butter Balls

These no bake Peanut Butter Balls are so easy to make! For a fun twist, try dipping them in white and dark chocolate. They're a crowd favorite and always disappear first at parties, so make a double batch!

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in dessert heaven, and I never get tired of creating treats with this classic combo.

These easy peanut butter balls are a family favorite in our house. I've been making them for years, and every batch is packed with love and sweet memories.

Whether you call them buckeyes or peanut butter balls, they're a dessert staple in many households for good reason! They're easy to make, fun to share, and absolutely delicious.

During the holidays, I enjoy turning them into Reese's Christmas trees. Our family tradition is to create a new shape for every holiday throughout the year. Everyone enjoys these chocolate covered goodies, regardless of their shape.

Why You'll Love This No Bake Treat

These easy, no-bake truffles are the perfect combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate.
No baking is required, so these treats come together in minutes.
This dessert works for every occasion. Try them for Valentine's Day, Christmas, Halloween, or a random Tuesday.
You can serve the balls plain, decorate them with sprinkles, or drizzle them with contrasting chocolate for a festive touch.
Use candy molds, cookie cutters, or colored chocolate to create them in any shape or color.

Looking for more chocolate and peanut butter treats? Try these peanut butter cup cookies or these peanut butter truffle brownies.

[Read more...]

« Previous Page