Ministry of Mothering

There’s something so comforting about coming home from church to a warm, hearty soup waiting for you. This Instant Pot Split Pea Soup with Bacon has quickly become a favorite in our house — it’s simple to throw together, full of flavor, and perfect for busy Sundays when you want a home-cooked meal without a lot of fuss. Ingredients: 1 bag of split peas About 1 cup of real crumbled bacon 5 whole carrots, peeled and chopped 6 whole garlic cloves 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base 8 cups of water Instructions: Add all ingredients to your Instant Pot. Set to Pressure Cook for 1 hour . Allow pressure to naturally release when cooking is done. Blend with an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. That’s it! Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad, and you’ve got a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day — without the extra effort. I love starting this recipe before church and coming home to the smell o...

  A delicious way to use up garden zucchini and sourdough starter—without wasting a thing! If you're like me, summer means an explosion of zucchini from the garden or farmers market. And if you're also baking with sourdough, there's probably a jar of discard sitting in your fridge, waiting for a purpose. These  extra moist zucchini muffins  are the perfect solution! They're lightly spiced, naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, and get a boost of flavor and tenderness from the sourdough discard. I made a batch using  four whole zucchinis  and you’d never know it—the muffins turned out fluffy, moist, and full of warm cinnamon flavor. Plus, they freeze beautifully and make a great grab-and-go breakfast or snack. 🥒 Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis (3.5–4 cups shredded and squeezed dry) 3 large eggs 7/8 cup oil (vegetable or melted coconut oil) 1 3/4 cups coconut sugar 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed is fine) 1 1/2 ...

  When my sister, who has Hashimoto’s, came to visit over Christmas break, I knew I wanted to make something special for our ladies' brunch. Since she follows a gluten-free and dairy-free diet, I decided to create a breakfast casserole that would be hearty, flavorful, and festive enough for the season—without sacrificing her dietary needs. This recipe turned out to be a hit! Even the family members without dietary restrictions loved it, and it was so simple to make that it left me with plenty of time to enjoy our morning together. If you’re hosting a Christmas brunch or just looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe, this Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Sausage and Veggie Breakfast Casserole is a perfect choice. It’s packed with protein, colorful veggies, and warm, comforting flavors that feel just right for the holidays. The Recipe Ingredients: 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (check for gluten-free) 1 medium onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced 2 cups baby spinach...

  When life gets busy, having a go-to dinner recipe can save the day! This Pork Sausage and Shells recipe is hearty, comforting, and easy to make with pantry staples. It's packed with flavor thanks to a creamy tomato sauce and the perfect blend of Italian spices. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or prepping for leftovers, this dish is a winner! Ingredients You’ll Need: Medium pasta shells Ground pork sausage Onion and garlic for flavor Canned diced tomatoes and cream for the sauce Parmesan and mozzarella cheese Italian seasoning What’s in Italian Seasoning? If you’ve ever wondered what gives Italian dishes their signature taste, it’s often this blend! Italian seasoning typically includes basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Sometimes, it also features sage, parsley, or red pepper flakes for a little kick. Don’t have Italian seasoning on hand? No problem! Mix these dried herbs together and you’re good to go. Why This Recipe Works: Kid-Friendly : The creamy sauce ...

 **Blog Post: Turning Leftovers into a Cozy Crockpot Dinner**   When my husband came home with leftovers from his work lunch—a fully stocked baked potato bar—I knew exactly what to do! Instead of letting the fixings sit in the fridge, I threw them into the crockpot and turned them into a delicious and hearty Loaded Baked Potato Soup. It was perfect for a cold winter day and so easy to prepare, especially for a busy homeschool mom like me.   **How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup from Leftovers:**   1. **Ingredients:** Gather the leftover baked potatoes, cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, green onions, and any other toppings from the baked potato bar.   2. **Base:** Peel and chop the baked potatoes into chunks. Add them to your crockpot with 4-6 cups of chicken broth, depending on how thick you like your soup.   3. **Flavor:** Stir in about 1 cup of sour cream (or cream cheese) for a creamy base. Add shredded cheese, bacon, and any spices you like, such as garl...

Thanksgiving and Easter are two of the most special holidays in our home. They're filled with faith, family, and, of course, food! One dish that always makes an appearance on our holiday table is our beloved oven-baked cranberry sauce. Its vibrant color, sweet-tart flavor, and simplicity make it a must-have alongside turkey at Thanksgiving and ham at Easter. This recipe is a favorite for its ease and versatility. Just a few ingredients, one dish, and a little oven time are all you need to create a side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. The Recipe: Oven-Baked Cranberry Sauce Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups) 1 cup sugar (adjust for taste) 1 cup orange juice (or water) 1 tsp orange zest (optional) Pinch of salt Optional: 1/2 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg, 1/4 cup chopped pecans, or 1/4 cup dried fruits (raisins or chopped dates) Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9x13-inch baking dish, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest...

 Every family has its cherished recipes, and pineapple stuffing is one that my husband’s family has passed down for generations. The sweet and savory balance of this dish makes it a standout at every holiday gathering. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or an Easter brunch, this recipe always has a place at our table, bringing warmth, nostalgia, and a little tropical twist to traditional meals. It’s easy to see why this dish has stood the test of time. With just a few ingredients—bread, pineapple, and pantry staples—you can create something magical that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Pineapple Stuffing Recipe Ingredients: 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 2-3 tablespoons of juice) 5 cups white bread, cubed (day-old bread works best) ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted ½ cup granulated sugar 3 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) Instructions: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking ...

  Comfort food at its finest, slow-cooked to perfection in your favorite Dutch oven. When the days grow cooler, and life gets busy, there's nothing better than having a comforting meal ready to nourish your family. This Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder is everything you love about comfort food: rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It's made with simple ingredients, but the slow cooking method in a Pioneer Woman Dutch oven takes it to the next level. Whether you're looking for a dish to warm up a weeknight dinner or serve a crowd, this chowder is guaranteed to be a hit. Packed with crispy bacon, fresh celery, and wholesome vegetables, it's a meal that will have everyone going back for seconds. Why You'll Love This Recipe Simple Ingredients : Pantry staples like canned potatoes, corn, and Better Than Bouillon come together effortlessly. Big Flavor : The addition of bacon, paprika, and thyme creates a cozy, smoky taste. Dutch Oven Magic : Slow cooking in a Dutch oven ensur...

As busy moms, we're always on the lookout for dinner ideas that are simple, delicious, and packed with flavor. This creamy Andouille sausage and penne pasta recipe ticks all the boxes. Made right in the crockpot, it’s a comforting meal with a hint of spice, perfect for cool evenings and easy enough to whip up on those days when time feels limited. Why Crockpot Dinners Work for Busy Moms Let’s face it—homeschooling, running errands, and managing all the little details of the day mean that some nights, we just don’t have time for elaborate meal prep. That’s where the beauty of crockpot dinners comes in. You can toss the ingredients in earlier in the day, let the slow cooker do the work, and come back to a warm, satisfying meal when you’re ready to gather the family around the table. This recipe combines creamy, rich sauce with hearty penne pasta and smoky andouille sausage, creating a filling meal that everyone will love. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients, it’s a great recipe ...

When your kids have just gotten expanders, the adjustment period can be tough—not only because of the discomfort but also due to the need to find softer foods that still provide essential nutrients. Smoothies are a lifesaver in times like these, especially when they’re packed with protein to help keep little ones full and energized. I recently created this Chocolate Cottage Cheese Smoothie recipe to ensure my children still get the protein they need, especially while they’re recovering and might not be up to chewing tougher foods. This smoothie is creamy, chocolatey, and so delicious, they’ll forget it’s good for them! Why Cottage Cheese? Cottage cheese might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind for a smoothie, but it’s actually perfect for a high-protein, creamy texture. Cottage cheese blends well, offering a good amount of protein without overpowering the smoothie with too much dairy flavor. Combined with almond milk and chocolate protein powder, this smoothie tastes more ...

As moms, we’re always on the lookout for meals that are quick, kid-approved, and don’t leave us with a sink full of dishes. Between homeschooling, playdates, and the endless to-do list, finding the time to prepare a homemade meal can feel like a juggling act. That’s why I love this one-pot spaghetti and meatballs recipe—it’s fast, uses pre-made frozen meatballs, and the best part? It all cooks in one pot! This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need something hearty and delicious but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a meal your kids will love! (Ask me how I know!)  Why One-Pot Meals Make Life Easier One-pot meals are a mom’s secret weapon. Minimal prep, fewer dishes, and maximum flavor—that’s a win! With everything cooked together in one pot, you can enjoy more time with your kids and less time cleaning up. Now, let’s get to the easy, time-saving recipe! One-Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe (with Frozen Meatballs) Ingredients: 1 bag (about 16 o...

  Some of the best meals come from throwing together a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. That’s exactly what this tuna salad on rosemary sourdough bread is all about—quick, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s the perfect recipe for busy moms who want to whip up something hearty and nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. This isn’t your average tuna salad. The addition of creamy dill pickle mustard spread, fresh veggies, and shredded cheese gives it a flavorful twist that pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of rosemary sourdough bread. Whether you're serving it for lunch, a light dinner, or even packing it for a picnic, this recipe is sure to please the whole family. Why Moms Love This Recipe Quick and Easy:  With just a few minutes of prep, you’ve got a delicious meal. Nutritious:  Packed with protein, fresh veggies, and calcium from the cheese. Versatile:  Serve it on bread, crackers, or even over a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option. Tuna Salad...

This year, as we planned our Thanksgiving menu, our oldest daughter made a special request: she wanted sausage balls for breakfast. It warmed my heart to see how much this simple, savory dish has become a cherished part of our family traditions. How could we say no? Sausage balls are the perfect start to a holiday morning. They’re savory, cheesy, and have just the right kick of spice to wake up your taste buds. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead, so you can focus on preparing the rest of the Thanksgiving feast without extra stress. Our Family’s Favorite Sausage Ball Recipe Ingredients: 2 pounds spicy sausage (uncooked) 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 2 cups Bisquick baking mix 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar works great) Instructions: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage, softened cream cheese, Bisquick, and shredded cheese. Using your hands works best to mix everything evenly. Form Balls: Roll the mi...

 Whipped Feta: A Simple and Delicious Recipe You'll Love If you're looking for a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious appetizer or snack, whipped feta is the answer! I recently tried this recipe using two 8-ounce chunks of feta cheese and plain Greek yogurt, and it turned out great. The result is a creamy, tangy, and versatile dip that pairs perfectly with fresh veggies, pita bread, or crackers.  Here's the recipe I used: **Ingredients:** - 16 oz feta cheese (two 8 oz chunks) - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 clove garlic (optional, for extra flavor) - Salt and pepper to taste **Instructions:** 1. Crumble the feta into a food processor. 2. Add the Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice. 3. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. 4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice. You can even add a clove of garlic for an extra kick! 5. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and enj...

If you’re looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that captures all the flavors of fall, this Apple Dump Cake is your answer. Recently, I made this for a gathering, and it was a huge hit! It only requires three main ingredients, plus a scoop of ice cream if you want to go all out. Let's dive into this effortless recipe that you’ll keep coming back to! Ingredients: 2 cans of apple pie filling 1 box of yellow cake mix 1 stick (1/2 cup) of butter, melted Optional: Vanilla ice cream for serving Instructions: Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Add the Apples: Pour the apple pie filling into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly to cover the bottom. Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the apple pie filling, ensuring it covers the apples in an even layer. Add the Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible. Bake: Place the dish in the ove...

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes compare to the warmth and heartiness of a chicken cobbler. It’s the perfect blend of savory chicken, creamy sauce, and golden, biscuit-like topping. But what if we told you there’s a way to make this dish even more flavorful and easier? Enter Veg-All and Red Lobster biscuit mix! Using Veg-All canned mixed vegetables and Red Lobster biscuit mix adds a delicious twist while keeping all the convenience busy moms need. Why Veg-All and Red Lobster Biscuit Mix? As a homeschooling mom, quick and easy meals are a blessing. Veg-All takes the hassle out of chopping and prepping vegetables, and Red Lobster biscuit mix brings an extra layer of rich, cheesy flavor to this dish that your family will love. With this duo, you get a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and time-saving. Recipe Highlights: Perfect for Busy Moms : This dish is simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight meal or a comforting Sunday dinner. Extra Flavor : The Red Lob...

Fall is the perfect season to bake up something cozy, fragrant, and absolutely delicious. If you're planning a gathering or simply want to bake in bulk for family, friends, or a big group, these pumpkin banana muffins are a fantastic choice. They’re a lovely blend of fall flavors—pumpkin and spice—mixed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Bonus? This recipe makes a ton of muffins! Whether you're prepping for a bake sale, brunch with friends, or just stocking up for the week, this recipe will have you covered. Why You’ll Love These Muffins Big Batch Recipe: This recipe makes about 48 muffins , depending on the size of your muffin tins. Perfect for feeding a crowd! Flexible & Adaptable: You can easily adjust the sweetness, add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, and even make them dairy-free or gluten-free with simple swaps. Moist & Flavorful: Thanks to the pumpkin and banana, these muffins stay incredibly moist without needing too much oil or butter. One-Bow...

Embrace Fall with a Cozy Simmering Potpourri Recipe As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, there’s nothing quite like filling your home with the warm, inviting scents of fall. This simple simmering potpourri recipe not only creates an aromatic ambiance but also brings a sense of comfort that encapsulates the essence of the season.  Ingredients: - 1 apple (sliced) - 1 to 2 oranges (sliced) - 1 cinnamon stick - A splash of vanilla extract - 4–6 whole cloves - Water Instructions: 1. **Prepare Your Ingredients**: Begin by slicing the apple and oranges. The combination of their fresh scents will create a delightful base for your potpourri. 2. **Combine in a Pot**: In a medium saucepan, add the sliced apple and oranges. Toss in the cinnamon stick, cloves, and a generous splash of vanilla extract.  3. **Add Water**: Fill the pot with enough water to cover the ingredients, about halfway full.  4. **Simmer on the Stove**: Place the pot on the stove over low heat. Al...