Triple the Chips, Triple the Fun: Chunky Monkey Muffins

Moist and fluffy banana muffins packed with milk, dark, and bittersweet chocolate chips. This small-batch Chunky Monkey Muffin recipe makes just 8 indulgent treats—perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert!

Triple the Chips, Triple the Fun: Chunky Monkey Muffins

If you’ve been around my kitchen—or my blog—for any length of time, you know muffins are kind of my thing. From fruity bursts to spiced classics, I’ve built quite the lineup of small-batch muffin recipes for every craving. But some mornings (or afternoons, or let’s be honest—late-night kitchen raids) call for something decadent. Something melty and chocolate-studded and worthy of those big bakery-style domed tops. Enter: Chunky Monkey Muffins.

These beauties are a chocolate lover’s dream wrapped in the warm hug of ripe banana. We’re talking three kinds of chocolate chips—milk, dark, and bittersweet—folded into a moist, tender banana muffin batter that comes together in one bowl. That’s right: no fancy steps, no mixer, and minimal cleanup. Just stir, scoop, and bake your way to muffin magic.

What I love most about these muffins (besides how fast they disappear) is how comforting they are. They’ve got that nostalgic banana bread warmth, paired with rich chocolate pockets that melt into every bite. And thanks to a tall fill and the right oven temp, they rise into those gorgeous golden domes that make you feel like you picked them up from a corner bakery—only better, because you made them yourself.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Produce

• Ripe bananas

Dairy & Eggs

• Milk
• Eggs

Baking & Pantry

• All-purpose flour
• Sugar or sugar substitute
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Canola oil (or other neutral oil)
• Milk chocolate chips
• Dark chocolate chips
• Bittersweet chocolate chips (or a mixed bag of chocolate chips if preferred)

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Milk:  Any plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy, etc.)  Or use buttermilk for added richness and tang

• Canola Oil:  Melted butter or coconut oil (adds richness and flavor)  Applesauce or Greek yogurt for a lighter version

• All-Purpose Flour:  Whole wheat flour (1:1, but may yield a denser texture)  Gluten-free all-purpose blend (with xanthan gum if needed)

• Sugar:  Coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup (adjust liquids slightly if using liquid sweeteners)  Granulated monk fruit or stevia blend (if sugar-free)

Variations

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add 2 tablespoons of peanut butter to the batter or swirl it on top before baking for that classic Chunky Monkey vibe.

• Cinnamon Banana-Choco Muffins: Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a cozy spice note.

• Nutty Monkey: Stir in ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and richness.

• Coconut Dream: Add ¼ cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Use very ripe bananas – The spottier and softer, the better! They’ll add natural sweetness and ensure a moist, tender crumb.

• Don’t overmix – Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense or rubbery muffins.

• Fill muffin wells to the top – For those gorgeous, domed tops, don’t be shy—this batter is meant to rise high!

• Start with a hot oven – Baking at 400°F gives the muffins a blast of heat that encourages a dramatic rise right from the start.

• Top before baking – Press a few extra chips into the tops of each muffin before they go into the oven for that professional, picture-perfect look.

• Check early – Ovens vary, so check at 18 minutes with a toothpick. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

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😋Muffin Talk:

Did you treat yourself to a bakery-style indulgence from your own kitchen?  I'd love to know what your favorite muffin flavor is.  Leave me a comment below and let's start a discussion!   

If you bake a batch, I’d love to see how they turn out. Snap a pic and tag me on Instagram [@SliceofSouthern] so I can share your delicious creations! Let’s keep the muffin magic going—one flavor at a time. 💛 #ChunkyMonkeyMuffins #MuffinMood

Ultimate Mediterranean Pasta Salad – Easy Side Dish for BBQs & 4th of July

This Ultimate Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the perfect easy make-ahead side dish for BBQs, potlucks, and 4th of July celebrations—fresh, zesty & crowd-pleasing!

 

Ultimate Mediterranean Pasta Salad – Easy Side Dish for BBQs & 4th of July

Every year, as the 4th of July rolls around, I find myself reaching for recipes that are bright, bold, and built for sharing. You know the ones—dishes that hold their own at the cookout table, that can chill in the fridge while you chase sparklers or man the grill, and still wow everyone when it’s time to eat. This Ultimate Mediterranean Pasta Salad is that dish.

It’s become my go-to for summer gatherings: a colorful, crave-worthy mix of tender rotini, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, sweet peppers, and salty bites of feta and salami. But what really ties it together? A zesty lemon-herb dressing with a touch of honey, sumac, and paprika—it’s bold, tangy, and completely irresistible. Whether you're heading to a 4th of July potluck, planning a backyard BBQ, or just want a make-ahead meal that brings the sunshine, this pasta salad checks every box.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Pantry/Dry Goods

• Rotini pasta
• Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Red wine vinegar 
• Honey
• Dijon mustard
• Dried Italian herb blend
• Paprika
• Sumac
• Sea salt
• Black pepper

Deli/Cheese

• Feta cheese (crumbled)
• Beef Genoa salami (sliced or stick-style)

Produce

• Cherry or grape tomatoes
• Persian cucumbers
• Orange bell pepper
• Red bell pepper
• Small red onion
• Fresh basil
• Lemons (for juice and zest)

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Pasta:  Instead of rotini: Fusilli, penne, farfalle, or cavatappi

• Cherry or Grape Tomatoes:  Chopped Roma or vine tomatoes (remove excess juice/seeds)

• Persian Cucumbers:  English cucumber (peeled if preferred) or regular cucumber (remove seeds)

• Orange & Red Bell Peppers:  Any bell pepper color or use roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor

• Red Onion:  Shallots (milder) or sweet yellow onion (thinly sliced)

Variations

• Vegetarian Delight:  Omit the salami and add chickpeas or white beans for protein.  Toss in kalamata or green olives for a salty punch.

• Herb Garden Twist:  Swap basil with a mix of mint, parsley, and dill for a fresh, herby take.  Add a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving for brightness.

• Grain Swap:  Swap pasta with orzo, couscous, quinoa, or farro for a different texture or a gluten-free option.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Cook pasta just to al dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better once chilled and tossed in dressing—no mushy bites here!

• Use the good olive oil: Since the dressing is raw and lemon-forward, a high-quality extra virgin olive oil makes a big difference in flavor.

• Toss dressing just before serving (if prepping ahead): This keeps the salad vibrant and prevents sogginess. Or reserve a few spoonfuls to refresh the salad right before serving.

• Double the dressing: It keeps well in the fridge for up to a week and tastes great drizzled on grilled chicken, veggies, or even grain bowls.

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. The flavors will deepen as it rests!

• Freshen it up before serving: Pasta can absorb dressing as it sits, so revive it with a splash of olive oil, lemon juice, or a spoonful of leftover dressing.

🔥BBQ Hosting Tips – Stress-Free, Crowd-Pleasing, and Fun

Throwing a backyard BBQ doesn’t have to mean sweating over the grill all day or scrambling at the last minute. With a little prep and a few smart hosting tricks, you can enjoy the party right along with your guests. Here are some of my go-to tips for effortless and memorable summer gatherings:

1. Prep Sides the Day Before:  Make-ahead dishes (like this Mediterranean pasta salad!) are lifesavers. Cold salads, dips, and marinated veggies can all be prepped a day in advance, saving you time and fridge space on party day.

2. Keep Drinks Cold & Easy to Grab:  Fill a cooler or drink tub with ice and stock it with sparkling water, lemonade, sodas, and maybe a signature mocktail or punch. Label it clearly and station it away from the cooking zone to avoid crowding the grill.

3. Plan a Simple, Grilled Main Dish:  You don’t need five kinds of meat. Choose 1–2 main proteins—like burgers and chicken—or go plant-based with grilled veggie skewers or portobello mushrooms. Simpler menus = happier hosts.

4. Create a Serve-Yourself Station:  Set up a buffet-style layout where guests can build their own plates. Include condiments, toppings, utensils, and napkins in one place so people don’t have to ask (or interrupt you) mid-flip.

5. Add Ambience with Music & Lighting:  A fun playlist and a few strings of patio lights or lanterns can instantly elevate the atmosphere. Bonus: citronella candles or herbs like rosemary and mint can help keep bugs at bay while setting the mood.

6. Prep for Clean-Up Ahead of Time:  Place labeled bins for recycling, and trash where guests can find them easily. Keep a stash of wet wipes and paper towels nearby—you’ll thank yourself later.

Bonus: Don’t Try to Do It All:  Let guests bring drinks, dessert, or chips. Most people want to help, and it makes the party feel more relaxed and communal.

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Stars, Stripes & Smoky Bites: Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers

Celebrate the Fourth of July with Stars, Stripes & Smoky Bites: Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers! These juicy, ranch-seasoned burgers are loaded with melted cheddar and crispy bacon—perfect for your summer BBQ.

Stars, Stripes & Smoky Bites: Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers

There’s something magical about a sizzling grill, a backyard full of laughter, and the unmistakable scent of burgers in the summer air. And when the Fourth of July rolls around, it’s time to bring out the big flavor. These Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers are my go-to when I want something festive, satisfying, and guaranteed to please a crowd. I love a good burger—if you’ve been around the blog for a while, you know I’ve shared quite a few! But this one’s a true standout: juicy ground beef seasoned with tangy ranch and a dollop of sour cream for that rich, tender texture, topped with sharp cheddar and a sprinkle of crispy bacon. It’s bold, it’s smoky, and it tastes like summer.

Best of all, these burgers come together with almost no fuss, making them perfect for easy entertaining. Pair them with my crispy oven fries (pro tip: toss those with a little ranch seasoning too for a flavor match made in heaven) and you’ve got a kid-approved, guest-friendly meal that practically shouts “holiday weekend.” Whether you're gathering with friends for fireworks or just keeping things low-key with the family, this is a crowd-pleasing, all-American dinner you’ll want to bring back all season long.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Meat

• Ground beef
• Bacon

Dairy

• Sharp cheddar cheese slices
• Sour cream

Pantry & Seasonings

• Ranch seasoning mix
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Mayonnaise

Produce (optional)

• Lettuce 
• Tomatoes

Bakery

• Hamburger buns

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Ground beef → Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat

• Sour cream → Plain Greek yogurt or mayo

• Cheddar cheese slices → Colby Jack, American, pepper jack, or provolone

• Bacon → Turkey bacon, pancetta, or crispy fried onions for a vegetarian crunch

• Hamburger buns → Brioche buns, sandwich rolls, lettuce wraps, or gluten-free buns

• Ketchup/Mustard/Mayo → BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or chipotle aioli

Variations

• Spicy Ranch Burgers – Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Swap cheddar for pepper jack for an extra kick.

• BBQ Ranch Burgers – Mix a tablespoon of BBQ sauce into the beef and top with crispy onions instead of bacon. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the bun.

• Ranch Turkey Burgers – Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. Add a splash of Worcestershire or a bit of grated onion to keep them juicy.

• Southwest Style – Add a pinch of cumin and smoked paprika to the burger mix. Top with avocado slices and a spoonful of salsa or chipotle mayo.

• Blue Ranch Burgers – Skip the cheddar and add blue cheese crumbles after cooking. Serve with caramelized onions for a gourmet twist.

• Slider Style – Form into smaller patties and serve on mini buns—great for parties, kids, or appetizer-style serving.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Don’t Overwork the Meat: Gently mix the beef, sour cream, and ranch seasoning just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough burgers.

• Use an Indent for Even Cooking: Press a shallow thumbprint in the center of each patty before cooking—this prevents them from puffing up in the middle and ensures even grilling.

• Toast Those Buns:  A quick toast on the grill or in a skillet keeps the buns from getting soggy and adds that satisfying crunch.

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Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado – A Taste of Peru at Home

Bring bold Peruvian flavor to your table with this Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado! Tender beef, sautéed onions and tomatoes, and a kick of ají amarillo paste come together in this quick, crave-worthy stir-fry.

Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado – A Taste of Peru at Home

I’ve made more stir-fries than I can count—quick weeknight veggie tosses, saucy noodle wonders, sizzling skillet meals with every protein you can imagine. But this one? This Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado just might be the most exciting addition to my stir-fry repertoire yet. It’s not just about speed or simplicity (though it checks both boxes), it’s about flavor—rich, bold, and unmistakably Peruvian.

Peruvian food has always held a special place in my heart, but for the longest time, I hesitated to try it at home. It felt like a cuisine best left to restaurants—complex, layered, mysterious. But as it turns out, the magic of Lomo Saltado is totally within reach. A few pantry staples, a spoonful of ají amarillo paste for that signature heat, and suddenly my kitchen smelled like a Lima street corner at dinnertime.

The first time I made it, I realized just how approachable—and addictive—it really is. Juicy strips of beef seared to perfection, sweet onions and tomatoes tossed in a soy-vinegar glaze, and that glorious finishing touch: golden fries served right on top, with steamed rice to catch every drop of the sauce. It’s fusion comfort food at its finest—and now, a regular on my dinner rotation.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Meat 

• Sirloin steak or beef tenderloin

Produce

• Red onion

• Tomatoes (or Roma tomatoes)

• Garlic

• Potatoes (for fries) (optional if not using frozen)

International/Latin Foods

• Ají amarillo paste

Spices & Seasonings

• Ground cumin

• Salt

• Black pepper

Oils & Vinegars

• Vegetable oil

• Red wine vinegar (or white vinegar)

Baking

• Cornstarch

Asian/Global Sauces

• Soy sauce

Broth & Canned Goods

• Beef broth (or substitute with water)

Frozen Foods (optional shortcut)

• Frozen French fries

Grains & Rice

• White rice

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Don’t have every ingredient on hand? No worries—here are some easy swaps to keep the flavor going strong:

• Beef: Use chicken thighs, pork loin, or even tofu for a different protein twist.

• Red wine vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar works in a pinch.

• Beef broth: Chicken broth, veggie broth, or even water with a splash of soy sauce can do the job.

• Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes (drained and roughly chopped) are good stand-ins.

• French fries: Use frozen fries for ease, or try roasted potato wedges 

Recipe Variations

Looking to mix things up? These Lomo Saltado twists keep the essence of the dish while offering fresh spins:

• Chicken Saltado: Swap the beef for boneless chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter take that still packs plenty of flavor.

• Vegetarian Saltado: Use mushrooms (like portobello or oyster), extra-firm tofu, or even seitan as your protein base. Add extra veggies like zucchini or green beans for bulk.

• Seafood Saltado: Try shrimp or scallops for a coastal-inspired twist—just be sure to cook them quickly to avoid overcooking.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• High Heat = Great Sear: Lomo Saltado is all about that quick, hot stir-fry. Use a wok or large skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan—cook the beef in batches to get that golden sear without steaming it.

• Don’t Overcook the Tomatoes: Add the tomatoes near the end and cook just until they soften slightly—they should help form a light sauce, not become mushy.

• Shortcut with Frozen Fries: No shame in skipping the homemade potatoes—frozen fries baked or air-fried until crisp are a great time-saver.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the stir-fry rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and juices redistribute.

• Double the Batch: Lomo Saltado reheats well—make extra for lunch the next day. Just keep rice and fries separate so they don’t get soggy.

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🍽️ Your Turn!

Ready to bring the bold flavors of Peru into your kitchen? Give this Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado a try and let me know how it turns out! Share your photos, tips, or any tasty twists you make—I’d love to hear your take on this classic. Don’t forget to tag me @SliceofSouthern if you post it on Instagram!