Halloween is coming, and the weather is cooperating. It's gray and gloomy outside, although luckily there is no sign of a blizzard (that happened in Minnesota in 1991). So cozy comfort foods are in order.
My mother always fed us before trick or treating, reasoning that we would be too full to eat all the goodies (that didn't work). But whether you feed your kids before or after the great event, a hot and nourishing meal is a necessity. And since you'll be decorating the house and scouring the yard for any loose items that should be secured, you'll need easy recipes that are ready when you are.
So enjoy these recipes and the weekend, and get ready for Halloween!
Friday Night Supper
- Wild Rice Meatloaf
I like to serve meatloaf on Halloween; it's warm and filling. The flavors and textures of this rich meatloaf are just spectacular. - Creamy Potato Bake
For a real meat and potatoes dinner, this recipe can't be beat. It will fill up your hungry ghosts and goblins so they're warm and toasty when they start to trick or treat. - Spinach Salad
I love the taste and texture of fresh baby spinach. It tastes so rich and has the most wonderful tender and gentle texture. - Spicy Apple Glazed Carrots
A hint of apple adds wonderful sweetness to tender baby carrots. - candy for dessert!
Saturday Breakfast
- Make Ahead Waffle and Pancake Batter
After dinner is cleared away, whip up this batter and refrigerate overnight. Then Saturday morning you'll have hot waffles or pancakes ready in minutes. - maple syrup, powdered sugar, and jam
- orange juice, milk, coffee
- Baked Apples
Baked apples are a nice breakfast food.
Saturday Lunch
- Grilled Tuna Melts
Make this sandwich filling and store it in the fridge. Then when you're ready to eat, hot and crisp sandwiches with a delicious and melting filling are ready in minutes. - Spidey Family
These cute little spiders start with sandwich cookies. They're fun to make and eat! - carrot and celery sticks
- milk and fizzy water
Saturday Dinner
- Black Bean Lasagna
A meatless lasagna is a nice change of pace. This one can be made ahead of time, stored covered in the refrigerator. If you choose to make it ahead, bake it for 10-15 minutes longer than directed in the recipe. - Mixed Greens and Pea Salad
This fresh salad is one of my favorites. Make the salad dressing ahead of time and toss the salad when you're ready to eat. - crusty french bread and butter
- Crockpot Pumpkin Pie Pudding
Make a creamy and delicious pumpkin dessert in your crockpot. This one is topped with crispy sugared pie crust cutouts. It's fabulous!
Sunday Brunch
- Stuffed French Toast Bake
This creamy make ahead casserole is so wonderful. You can use plain cream cheese and add a spoonful or two of your favorite fruit jam instead of the pineapple cream cheese if you'd like. - orange juice, milk, coffee
- bacon
Sunday Dinner
- Slow Cooker Pork Roast with Vegetables
This delicious one dish meal is the perfect recipe to end your weekend. It cooks happily by itself while you're running errands, and is a hearty and healthy meal. - Apricot Bavarian
A cool and tender molded salad is a great complement to a hot entree. It must be made ahead of time, so make it the night before. It's the perfect complement to the rich main dish. - Pecan Caramel Tart
If you love pecans, you have to try this tart! Tons of pecan halves are swathed in melted caramel, then piled in a pie shell and drizzled with melted chocolate. Yum.
