Taco Dip

A favorite at family gatherings and parties!

2 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1 (16 oz.) container sour cream
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
shredded lettuce
chopped tomatoes
black olives, drained and sliced

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream and taco seasoning. Spread this mixture in a 9x13 glass pan. Top the mixture with lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and black olives.

Optional additional toppings: green onion, green peppers, jalapenos, guacamole

Creamy Chicken Bow Tie Salad

I made this one up myself when I was looking for something different. Jerry has requested it be added to our regular rotation.

2-3 grilled chicken breasts, cubed
8 oz bow tie pasta
1 cup pea pods
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup finely grated cheese (Monterey Jack or real Parmesan is good)

Dressing:
1/4 cup finely diced onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
2 T. vinegar
1/2 t. sugar
1/4 cup mayo
1/4 t. each salt & pepper
1/4 t. basil
1/4 t. oregano
1/2 t. parsley
1/4 t. dry mustard

Mix dressing ingredients together and set aside. Cook bow tie pasta according to directions. Rinse with cold water after draining. Toss all ingredients with dressing. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Triple Fudge Brownies

1 (3.9 ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
1 package chocolate cake mix
1 package semisweet chocolate chips
ice cream (optional)

Prepare pudding according to package directions. Whisk in cake mix. Stir in chocolate chips. Pour into a greased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until the top springs back when lightly touched. Optional: Dust with confectioners' sugar or serve with ice cream.

Pop's Pico de Gallo

3-4 Roma tomatoes
1 medium onion
fresh cilantro, as much as you like, MUST use fresh
1/2 t. minced garlic
10 slices (or more) canned jalapenos or 1 fresh
1 t. salt
1 T. lemon juice

Mix in food processor or chop by hand.

From Pop Pop

Bacon Cheddar Hamburgers

These have become a new favorite at our house!

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup bacon, crumbled (or real bits)

In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, Cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and bacon bits using your hands. Shape the mixture into 4 hamburger patties. Grill 5 minutes per side or until well done. Serve on buns. 

Modified from a recipe found on AllRecipes.com