How I Turned Convenience Ingredients Into a Beef Barbacoa Bowl Worth Craving

 

Make a hearty, flavorful Beef Barbacoa Bowl with simple convenience ingredients. Easy, wholesome, and perfect for busy nights—no real cooking required.

How I Turned Convenience Ingredients Into a Beef Barbacoa Bowl Worth Craving

Starting a new position at work has been exciting… and exhausting. By the time I'm through for the day, my brain is done and my energy is already spent. But the question still stands: How do you get a hearty, healthy, satisfying meal on the table—one flavorful enough to keep a hungry husband happy—without actually cooking?

For tonight, the answer leaned toward our love of Mexican flavors. They’re bold, comforting, and they turn even the simplest “heat and go” ingredients into something that tastes intentional. And thankfully, grocery stores are filled with convenience items that are genuinely wholesome—things that help you avoid the fast-food trap without asking for more time or effort than you’ve got left at the end of the day.

That’s exactly how this Beef Barbacoa Bowl came to life. The base of this bowl calls for rice—nothing fancy. I used leftover rice from a previous meal, but you can easily grab pre-cooked rice from the grocery store or make your own if you prefer. From there, everything layers together effortlessly: tender, richly seasoned purchased barbacoa, warm beans, smoky fire-roasted corn, melty cheese, bright salsa, and juicy cherry tomatoes.

It’s a bowl that feels layered, vibrant, and deeply satisfying. The kind of meal where you take that first bite, pause, and think, Oh wow—this is good. And the best part? You can pull it together in minutes. No measuring. No chopping. No fuss. Just a few well-chosen grocery store shortcuts transforming into a bowl worth craving.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Beef Barbacoa – The star of the bowl; tender, flavorful, and ready-made for convenience. I chose the Del Real brand.

• Rice – Acts as the hearty base; leftover, pre-cooked, or freshly made all work.

• Pinto Beans – Creamy and protein-packed, they balance the flavors in every bite.

• Fire-Roasted Corn – Adds a smoky-sweet pop and some texture. I chose a frozen brand.

• Salsa – Brings brightness, acidity, and a little spice. Choose your favorite level of heat.

• Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Cotija add richness and melty goodness.

• Cherry Tomatoes – Fresh, juicy, and slightly tangy to lighten the bowl.

• Optional Toppings – Avocado, lime wedges, cilantro, sour cream, or hot sauce to customize. I crunched up a few tortilla chips.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Beef Barbacoa: Can swap for rotisserie chicken, carnitas, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

• Rice: Try brown or Mexican rice, or go green with salad greens as a base, for a lighter option.

• Beans: Black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas work just as well.

Variations

• Spicy Tex-Mex: Add pickled jalapeños, chipotle salsa, and a squeeze of lime for heat.

• Southwest Veggie: Swap barbacoa for roasted sweet potatoes and black beans; keep the corn, cheese, and salsa.

Kitchen Notes & Tips

• Use leftover rice when possible—saves time and reduces waste.

• Heat convenience ingredients gently; overcooking can dry out beans or corn.

• Assemble bowls just before serving for the freshest textures.

• Section ingredients for visual appeal—rice first, the place beans, corn, barbacoa and tomatoes around the rice, then add toppings.

• Store components separately if prepping ahead to keep flavors bright and textures intact.

       Set the Mood       

Want to make this dinner feel extra special? Here’s how to set the mood with just a few easy touches.

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The Best 24-Hour Neapolitan Pizza Dough for Home Ovens — Made by Hand

 

24 hours to the best pizza of your life. This hand-mixed Neapolitan dough delivers a chewy, airy, restaurant-quality crust right from your home oven.

The Best 24-Hour Neapolitan Pizza Dough for Home Ovens — Made by Hand

There are nights when nothing satisfies quite like a good pizza, and in our house, it’s one of our favorite meals to make from scratch. And honestly — give this dough just 24 hours, and you’re on your way to one of the best pizzas of your life.

So what makes a Neapolitan crust so special? It’s all about the texture and flavor: a chewy, airy interior with a delicate, blistered exterior that’s slightly charred in spots. To achieve that perfect crust requires a long, slow rise — 24 hours — which allows the yeast to work its magic and develop those complex flavors that you just don’t get with quick-rise doughs. The result is a dough that’s light and flavorful with that taste you’d expect from a pizzeria, right from your own oven.

This 24-hour Neapolitan pizza dough has become a favorite for those nights when we’re craving that the best restaurant style pizza, but don’t feel like eating out. With a handful of simple ingredients, a little planning ahead for that long slow rise, I get restaurant-quality results from my home oven.  You can too.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Just a few ingredients to a great pizza dough.

• ‘00’ Flour: The secret to that classic Neapolitan texture. Ultra-fine and soft, it creates a chewy, airy crust with just the right bite. I use this one.

• Instant Yeast: Helps your dough rise slowly over 24 hours, developing rich flavor and that irresistible, slightly tangy aroma.

• Sugar: Just a touch to give the yeast a little boost and enhance the natural flavors in the dough.

• Salt: Essential for flavor balance and strengthening the gluten, giving your pizza crust structure and chew.

Kitchen Notes & Tips

Making Neapolitan pizza dough at home is easier than you might think, but a few simple tricks can take your crust from good to restaurant-quality. Here’s what we’ve learned:

• Room Temperature Ingredients Matter: Yeast works best when it’s gently awakened. Make sure your dough ingredients are at room temperature so the fermentation happens evenly.

• Flour Your Surface Generously: When stretching the dough, a lightly floured countertop (and hands) keeps it from sticking while preserving that airy, soft interior.

• Use a Pizza Stone if You Can: Preheating a pizza stone creates a hot surface that mimics a pizzeria oven, giving your crust the perfect blistered, crisp bottom. If you don't have one see below for alternatives.

• Stretch, Don’t Roll: Use your fingers to gently coax it into a circle by stretching the dough. Rolling the dough can squash the bubbles that make a Neapolitan crust light and airy.

• Bake Hot & Fast: Your home oven set to 500ºF is ideal. The high heat ensures the edges puff up and char slightly while the center stays soft and chewy.

• Keep Toppings Simple: Less is more when it comes to toppings. Too many can weigh down the dough and prevent that signature airy texture. Choose quality ingredients, and let the dough shine.

• Experiment & Enjoy: Don’t stress about perfection. Every home-baked pizza is a little different — embrace the rustic charm and savor the process.

• Storing Your Dough for Later: Refrigerate: After the first rise, wrap unused dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature for about 30–60 minutes before shaping and baking. Freeze: Divide the dough into portions, wrap tightly in plastic, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Dough can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before stretching.

No Pizza Stone - No worries!

Don’t have a pizza stone? Discover clever alternatives that give your homemade pizza a perfectly crispy crust every time!

Pizza Topping Inspiration

Looking for pizza inspiration? Check out these simple topping ideas to turn your homemade Neapolitan dough into a masterpiece!

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup 2.0: The Arrabbiata Upgrade

 

Warm, bold, and irresistibly cozy — this Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup 2.0 features an arrabbiata upgrade that adds deeper flavor and a fiery kick. A hearty one-pot twist on the original fan-favorite soup that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or chilly nights.

Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup 2.0: The Arrabbiata Upgrade

If you’ve made my original Spicy Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup, you already know it’s one of the coziest, most satisfying one-pot meals in my kitchen. But today, we’re turning up the heat—literally. This updated version swaps the classic marinara for bold, fiery arrabbiata sauce, adding a deeper, more vibrant spice that takes this soup to a whole new level. All the hearty comfort of the original remains, but with an extra kick that makes it perfect for chilly nights, easy weeknight dinners, or anytime you’re craving a bowl with personality. Welcome to Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup 2.0: The Arrabbiata Upgrade.

It's amazing the way the arrabbiata sauce transforms this pot of soup. The broth becomes richer and redder, the aroma is gives off is deeper and more fragrant. As it simmers, you get this warm, peppery heat that wafts through the kitchen — not overwhelming, but enough to make you lean over the pot for another breath. The tender macaroni, savory beef, and bright tomatoes soak up every bit of flavor, creating a bowl that feels both nostalgic and exciting at the same time.

And if you loved the original, this upgrade is one you have to try. It has the same cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort that made the first version one of my most popular recipes, but with a bolder personality that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the kind of soup that wakes up your taste buds, warms you from the inside out, and makes you wonder how you ever made it without that extra hit of heat. One spoonful and you’ll know exactly why this version earned its “2.0” name.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this upgraded, spicy beef and macaroni soup. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the cozy, bold flavors you’ll love:

• Ground Sirloin: Lean and flavorful, it forms the hearty base of the soup and pairs perfectly with the spicy tomato broth.

• Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup’s savory flavor.

• Garlic: Provides a fragrant punch that complements the heat of the arrabbiata sauce.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the meat and vegetables.

• Oregano: A classic Italian herb that adds warmth and aromatic notes to the tomato base.

• Chicken Broth: Forms the flavorful liquid backbone of the soup, keeping it light yet rich.

• Arrabbiata Sauce: The star of this version — spicy, garlicky, and full of personality.

• Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture, freshness, and extra tomato flavor to balance the heat.

• Elbow Macaroni: The comforting, chewy pasta that soaks up all the bold flavors.

• Parsley (Garnish): Adds a fresh, bright note to finish the soup beautifully.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few simple ingredient swaps and variations you can try:

Substitutions:

• Ground Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
• Chicken Broth: Substitute with beef broth, vegetable broth, or water with a splash of tomato paste for extra depth.
• Elbow Macaroni: Try small shells, ditalini, or even gluten-free pasta to fit dietary needs.
• Arrabbiata Sauce: Swap for marinara if you prefer a milder soup.

Variations:

• Cheesy Beef & Macaroni Soup: Stir in shredded mozzarella or Parmesan just before serving for a creamy twist.

• Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra color, nutrients, and texture.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Browning the Beef: Don’t skip browning the ground beef well—it adds rich flavor and a heartier texture.

• Simmer Gently: Let the soup simmer for the full time to allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the broth.

• Pasta Timing: Add the pasta last and cook until just tender to avoid overcooking.

• Make Ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze portions for easy future meals.

• Adjust Heat: Arrabbiata sauce adds spice, but you can control it by choosing mild, medium, or hot versions depending on your taste.

       Set the Mood       

Turn a simple bowl of soup into an unforgettable cozy experience with these ambiance tips ↓

5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

This 5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw comes together in just 30 minutes! With a zesty chili-peanut dressing, crisp kohlrabi, cabbage, and fresh cilantro, it’s a quick, flavorful, and healthy side dish perfect for weeknight meals.

5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

I’m bringing you another 5-Ingredient Meal! After how much you loved the 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado and the Caesar Pasta Salad, I couldn’t wait to share a fresh, crunchy side dish that’s just as easy to toss together.

This Asian-inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw is vibrant, flavorful, and comes together in about 30 minutes. A few simple ingredients — kohlrabi, red cabbage, lime, and a peanut sauce (either store-bought or use my quick homemade version included with the recipe)  — create a crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy slaw that pairs perfectly with just about any weeknight dinner.

What I love most is that it’s a complete flavor punch with almost no effort: nutty, zesty, and refreshing, with a hint of heat from chili and the brightness of lime.  It's the perfect side dish to an Asian style meal.  Just throw together a stir fry or grill some teriyaki steak or chicken and you'll have a healthy side dish that makes weeknight cooking feel effortless.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Kohlrabi: Crisp and slightly sweet, this veggie gives the slaw a satisfying crunch. Cut into matchsticks for easy tossing.

• Red Cabbage: Thinly sliced for color, crunch, and a tangy contrast to the peanut sauce.

• Lime: Zest and juice add bright acidity to balance the nutty peanut flavor.

• Peanut Sauce: Can be store-bought or my easy homemade version; adds richness, creaminess, and a hint of spice.

• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors together.

• Optional Garnish — Cilantro: Adds freshness and a pop of green for visual appeal.

Substitutions & Variations

Simple Ingredient Swaps

• Kohlrabi: Substitute with jicama, cucumber, or carrots for similar crunch.

• Red Cabbage: Use Napa cabbage, green cabbage, or even a bagged slaw mix.

• Peanut Sauce: Try almond butter or cashew butter sauce as a nutty alternative.

Variations

• Crunchy Thai-Style Slaw: Add thinly sliced bell peppers and a sprinkle of toasted peanuts for extra texture and flavor.

• Protein Boost Slaw: Toss in cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or edamame to turn it into a full meal.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Toss Just Before Serving: Keeps the kohlrabi and cabbage crisp.

• Prep Ahead: Slice the vegetables and make the peanut sauce ahead of time. Add lime and toss only when ready to serve.

• Adjust Spice: Add sriracha or chili sauce to the peanut dressing for more heat.

• Storage: Best eaten immediately, but will keep in the fridge for a day in an airtight container.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

 

This 5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad comes together in just 30 minutes! With the help of a simple Caesar salad kit, tender pasta, and savory salami, it’s an easy, satisfying weeknight meal that tastes like a deli favorite — without the extra work.

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

I’m bringing you another 5-Ingredient Meal! My last post — 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado — was such a time-saver for busy weeknights that I couldn’t wait to share another easy recipe in the series.

This 5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad might just be even easier. It starts with a simple Caesar salad kit and turns into something that tastes like you put in way more effort than you actually did. A handful of ingredients — tender mini farfalle, sliced salami, a few pepperoncini, and some red onion — give it a hearty, deli-style twist that’s ready in just about 30 minutes.

It’s the kind of dinner that checks every box: quick, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re too tired to cook after work or just need something you can toss together without thinking too hard, this pasta salad is a total win for busy nights.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

You’ll only need five simple ingredients for this Caesar-inspired pasta salad — most of which you probably already have on hand. It’s the perfect mix of convenience and flavor.

• Mini Farfalle Pasta – These little bowties hold the creamy Caesar dressing beautifully, giving every bite a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Any short pasta shape will work in a pinch — think rotini or penne.

• Caesar Salad Kit – The ultimate shortcut! It includes the greens, dressing, croutons, and Parmesan — everything you need to build a classic Caesar base with almost no prep.

• Sliced Salami – Adds savory, salty richness that makes this salad feel hearty and satisfying. Use a good-quality Italian salami for the best flavor.

• Pepperoncini Peppers – Bright, tangy, and just a touch spicy, these bring a pop of contrast that cuts through the creamy dressing.

• Red Onion – Thinly sliced for a mild bite and beautiful color — it ties everything together and gives the salad a little extra crunch.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to mix things up? This recipe is incredibly adaptable — here are a few ways to change the flavor profile or use what you already have.

Substitutions - Simple Swaps

• Pasta: Any small shape will do — rotini, penne, or even elbow macaroni.

• Protein: Swap the salami for grilled chicken, diced turkey, pepperoni, or even chickpeas for a lighter, meat-free version.

• Cheese: Add a sprinkle of fresh shaved Parmesan or even a touch of feta for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations

1: Chicken Caesar Twist

Add grilled chicken (or rotisserie chicken) in place of the salami and toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness. It’s fresh, filling, and meal-prep friendly.

2: Italian Deli Style

Use an Italian-style salad kit instead of Caesar and add a handful of olives or roasted red peppers. The flavors are bolder and perfect for a picnic or make-ahead lunch.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Chill the pasta – Rinse your cooked pasta in cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and keep it from getting too soft.

• Toss just before serving – Mixing the dressing and toppings right before serving keeps the greens crisp and the textures balanced.

• Make it ahead – You can prep the pasta, chop the onion, and slice the salami earlier in the day. Wait to add the dressing and toppings until ready to eat for the best texture.

• Garnish Twist – Take the croutons from the salad kit and crush them up and mix them with the Parmesan cheese from the kit.  Sprinkle that on top of your pasta salad before serving.

• Upgrade the kit – Salad kits are an amazing shortcut, but don’t be afraid to enhance them — a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇