I’ve seen this quick and easy keto snack idea circulating on Pinterest for a while and finally tried it myself. It’s one of the simplest low‑carb snacks you can make: thin slices of cheese baked until they become crisp, golden, and crunchy—just like a cheese cracker. This easy keto snack is perfect for on the … Read more

We’re still living through a pandemic, and every one of us has a role to play in slowing the spread of COVID-19. I’m sharing my personal experience and practical tips on how you can help. This post is sponsored by The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. How to Help Stop the Spread of … Read more

Spiced Brown Rice with Beans and Vegetables This hearty, one-pot brown rice and beans dish combines aromatic spices, vegetables and pantry staples to create a satisfying vegetarian meal. It’s easy to prepare, full of color and fiber, and makes great leftovers for lunches or a quick dinner. The recipe uses simple techniques: sauté aromatics, toast … Read more

This Instant Pot Low Carb Cube Steak and Gravy delivers tender beef and a rich mushroom gravy in a weeknight-friendly time frame. At about 6 grams net carbs per serving, it’s a satisfying low-carb option that cooks quickly in a pressure cooker. Using a few convenient shortcuts keeps the recipe simple without sacrificing flavor—serve it … Read more

Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Mushrooms are an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines all the best flavors of a cheeseburger into a single bite. I’m excited to share this recipe and a few recent updates from my life. Tonight I’m hosting a DIY Charcuterie Workshop for about 20 people. In the past I’ve done several cooking demonstrations, … Read more

Some time ago a reader asked for a tour of my kitchen, requesting lots of photos. I intended to reply sooner, but found that writing an engaging piece about one’s own kitchen is harder than it sounds. After a few failed attempts, I decided to write plainly about what this space means to me and … Read more

These Coconut Lime Sugar Cookies pack a bright citrus punch thanks to a quick kitchen shortcut. Sparkling with sugar and studded with coconut flakes, these cookies are a welcome sign of spring. Subscribe to receive Melanie Makes recipes directly to your inbox. This year I’m in the mood to share a few St. Patrick’s Day–inspired … Read more

Bonefish Grill’s Sunday brunch in Tustin pleasantly surprised us. Known primarily for its grilled fish dinners and seafood entrees, this location also offers a solid brunch menu with a variety of savory and sweet options. We visited on a Sunday and enjoyed a relaxed meal without a wait, attentive service, and several standout dishes centered … Read more

Pull out your slow cooker and get ready to make an easy, healthy breakfast. These crockpot steel cut oats combine simple ingredients for a hearty Maple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oatmeal that’s filling, comforting, and simple to prepare. I used to joke that oatmeal would be the thing that made me millions. In the first year … Read more

Craving a homemade pizza with a golden, crispy crust and a soft, chewy center? This Cast Iron Skillet Pizza method delivers a pizzeria-quality result at home. The technique works whether you start with homemade pizza dough or store-bought dough and makes two 12-inch pizzas when using the full recipe below. Cooking pizza in a cast … Read more