Degux - Delicious Recipes Made Simply

White Christmas Sparkle Cake Recipe for a Festive Holiday Dessert

Let’s think of the sweetest way to spread some holiday cheer. And by typing “cheer” I accidentally typed “cheese.” I’d gladly take some holiday cheese along with my Christmas cake! You’ll see where I’m going with this. I promise. Every year I share a few cookie recipes because baking is a holiday staple for us. … Read more

Caramel Apple Crumble Cookie Recipe — Soft Baked Fall Treat

These caramel apple crumble cookies are a chewy, gooey fall dessert perfect for cozy afternoons. Soft cookies are filled with caramel and chopped dried apples, then finished with a crisp cinnamon streusel topping—pure autumn in every bite. Looking for a new fall cookie? Try these. They’ve become a staple in my seasonal baking: warm with … Read more

Smoky Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe for Quick Weeknight Meals

Any day with a chicken enchilada skillet is a fabulous day. Cheese, sauce, tortillas — that’s basically all I want. Add a big bowl of guacamole, chips and margaritas and you’re set. If you’re planning a Cinco de Mayo gathering or just want an easy, crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner, this deconstructed enchilada skillet is a great … Read more

20 Weeks of Lighter Dinner Recipes You’ll Actually Want to Cook

Happy New Year!

If you’re knee-deep in dinner planning for the year ahead, here’s a large collection of my go-to weeknight meals. These are dishes we regularly rotate through—recipes that feel healthier but still deliver on flavor. They’re the dinners I reach for when plain salads and boring chicken won’t cut it. Many include modest amounts of cheese, whole grains, or the occasional bacon; omit or swap ingredients to suit your preferences. Use this list for inspiration when you want variety and meals that are satisfying without being overly indulgent.

Lately I’ve been planning meals in advance and prioritizing variety—keeping things interesting is what makes home cooking sustainable. I hope this roundup helps you avoid last-minute, uninspired dinners and keeps weeknights tasty and simple.

Share your favorite dinners in the comments if you have go-to recipes—I’m always looking for new ideas.

Guess what! I couldn’t resist celebrating the taco emoji with actual tacos. The taco emoji is finally here — or arriving soon — and after all the anticipation, I have to admit I’m a little underwhelmed. Here’s why: when I imagined the perfect taco emoji, I pictured a more familiar street- or home-style taco — … Read more

Thai Drunken Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Honey Chicken

If there’s ever a moment for zoodles, it’s now. I may have had one too many cupcakes this weekend, and now that I’m 33, am I too old to say “zoodles”? It sounds silly, but I can’t help smiling—it’s already made my week and it’s only Monday. My friend Ali’s book Inspiralized is the reason … Read more

Lemony Herb Ricotta Spread with Grilled Bread Recipe

This grilled bread with ricotta cheese is the easiest warm-weather snack. Golden, toasty grilled sourdough served with lemony, herby ricotta is a simple, delicious treat everyone will love. I’ve got a heavy-hitter snack right here! This lemon-herb ricotta with grilled bread comes together in minutes. Stir ricotta with lemon zest and juice, lots of fresh … Read more

Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe: Classic Mint Chocolate Candy

These are easily the best treat I’ve made in years—better than any cupcakes, cookies, or bars I’ve baked recently. Homemade peppermint patties—what a delight! I loved making these because they’re a little different and totally refreshing. I might be biased, but I think they outshine store-bought peppermint patties like York’s. The original recipe called for … Read more

September Sangria Recipes and Seasonal Wine Pairings

I have a huge favorite for you today: rosé in the form of a bright, fruity sangria. Every time I say “September sangria” I hear Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September” in my head. It’s one of those songs I’ve loved since I was a kid — it even used to be my phone ringtone. So … Read more

Smoky Chili-Stuffed Peppers Recipe for Bold Weeknight Dinners

These chili stuffed peppers are a tasty, creative way to enjoy a classic bowl of chili. Roasted bell peppers are filled with smoky chili, melted cheddar and your favorite toppings for a cozy, satisfying meal.

I’m always on the lookout for new ways to use leftover chili.

These smoky chili stuffed peppers are simple, comforting and a great way to transform extra chili into something different. They’re especially welcome in cooler months when a warm, hearty dinner hits the spot.

I’ll happily stuff a pepper with almost anything — and these turn out particularly well.

The secret to excellent stuffed peppers is roasting them first.

I’ve used this method for years: roasting brings out a slightly caramelized, roasted flavor that improves any filling. Even a short roast before stuffing — about 10 to 15 minutes — makes the peppers tender and more flavorful.

Season the pepper halves with a little salt and pepper and a light spray of olive oil before roasting. That extra step adds depth and gives the peppers a pleasant roasted texture.