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This Breakfast Lasagna is the Perfect Brunch Recipe

November 28th, 2017February 11th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

This Breakfast Lasagna layers hash browns, bacon, sausage, eggs and cheese into breakfast perfection. Enjoy this delicious breakfast with family soon! This post is written by me on behalf of Tyson Foods, Inc.. All opinions are entirely my own.

This Breakfast Lasagna is the Perfect Brunch Recipe

We love Sundays in our house, we gather with our neighbors and actually sit down without our phones and chat about the week. Life can get so busy, it’s nice to be able to sit back and enjoy each other. I am the one in charge of making breakfast on Sundays, and I love it. I want to sit down with everyone and not slave in the kitchen, so I always make recipes that are sure to please, but easy to make. And I recently created the perfect brunch recipe, Breakfast Lasagna. It is layered-deliciousness!

There are all sorts of versions of Breakfast Lasagna out there, but what makes this one special is the ingredients. Crisp Wright® Brand Bacon, hot Jimmy Dean® Refrigerated Breakfast Sausage, hash browns, eggs, and don’t forget the ooey-gooey cheese. This Breakfast Lasagna is the perfect meal for our Sundays with friends…and for the holidays.

The reason for the season is to spread joy and love to those we care about and those around us. And one of the easiest ways to spread joy is with food 🙂 Some of the best memories are made in the kitchen and around the kitchen table, wouldn’t you agree?

Mornings are made for relaxing, and during this busy season with numerous parties to go to and mouths to feed, remember that there are many moments and many meals to share beyond the big dinner. Start your day off with friends and family with this Breakfast Lasagna, then let the hustle and bustle begin. Everything is better on a full belly anyway.

Now, here is my Breakfast Lasagna Recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it this holiday season and beyond. Maybe you will start your own Sunday morning breakfast tradition with friends 😉

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5 from 1 vote

Breakfast Lasagna Brunch Recipe

This Breakfast Lasagna is layers hashbrowns, bacon, sausage, eggs and cheese into breakfast perfection. Enjoy this delicious breakfast with family soon!

Prep Time15

Cook Time45

Total Time1

Course: Breakfast/Brunch

Servings:

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

1 package Wright® Brand Bacon
1 package Hot Jimmy Dean® Refrigerated Breakfast Sausage
9 eggs
1 lb frozen seasoned hash browns - approx. 3/4 bag
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese & pepper jack - I used a 50/50 mixture

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Spray a 9x9 baking pan and set aside.
Cook Wright® Brand Bacon and set aside.
Cook the breakfast sausage and set aside.
Scramble the eggs, remove from heat when they are still a bit runny and set aside.
Place one layer hash browns, breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, cheese and bacon - using half of each. *You will do 2 layers of the bacon, rotate the layers.
Place another layer of each: hash browns, breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon into the prepared baking pan. *You will do 2 layers of the bacon, rotate the layers.
Cove and bake until hash browns are done, approximately 45 minutes.
Remove and ENJOY with family and friends.

I hope you enjoy this Breakfast Lasagna Brunch Recipe as much as we all do!

Wright® Brand Bacon products inspired me to try something new for the brunch table, it can also help transform the functional dishes hosts make, bring or pass on as a gift. Wouldn’t you just love it if someone knocked on your door and handed you a pan of this Breakfast Lasagna?

Why we love Wright® Brand Bacon:

Wright Brand is masterfully crafted for a richer bacon experience
Thick-sliced
Hand-selected & Hand-trimmed
Naturally smoked with wood chips
Best cuts of premium meat
High-quality

But, the number one reason I always buy Wright® Brand Bacon is that my dad has always told me it’s the best. And my dad is never wrong 😉 Wright® Brand Bacon products are perfect for all cooking occasions and all holiday season long. So, the next time you are at Publix, grab the Wright® Brand Bacon and everything else you need to make your day extra special. Because the best memories always start in the kitchen.

Find a Publix near you

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I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

5 Simple Hostess Gift Ideas

November 25th, 2017December 2nd, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

The holidays are coming, and so are all the party invitations! Don’t show up empty handed, be sure to check out these 5 simple hostess gift ideas. While this post is sponsored, all opinions are my own.

5 Simple Hostess Gift Ideas

Tis the season for busy schedules! The holidays are here and between shopping and cooking, we also are spending time with family and friends. I know we all love a good party, but as you are rushing out the door to you next festive gathering, don’t forget a hostess gift! It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but all hostesses appreciate the simple gesture. So, I wanted to share 5 simple hostess gift ideas with you, and I definitely recommend stocking up on them through the year so that you have them ready to go at the last minute.

Simple Hostess Gift Ideas:

Wine – Everyone appreciates a good bottle of wine, even if they don’t drink it, they can serve it. Chardonnay, Cabernet, and Pinot Nior are all good choices for cooler weather months.
Chocolate – Not just any chocolate, the good stuff. Godiva is always a great option. Again, if they don’t eat it, they can serve it.
French loaf of bread with jelly or jam – Make it extra special with a homemade jam.
Festive Hand/Dish Towels
Soaps – Shea Butter bar soaps, festive hand soaps.

As you are out and about this holiday season, be sure to get your holiday shopping deals and these hostess gifts at Westfield! I will be at the Citrus Park Center, which one will you be at?

Westfield Shopping Center Locations:

Westfield Brandon
Westfield Citrus Park
Westfield Countryside

Be sure to download the Westfield Mobile app (available for android and apple devices) to navigate the centers, find discount offers, dining options and more holiday fun!

What are some of your hostess gift ideas? Will I see you this holiday season at Westfield?

Make sure to check out Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more fun things to do in Florida, recipes, and more.

Words Commonly Used To Describe Wine

November 20th, 2017September 9th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Learning about wine? Headed out to go wine tasting? Here are some Words Commonly Used To Describe Wine that should become familiar with.

Commonly Used Words To Describe Wine

The entire worldwide wine industry has been shaped both by advances in winemaking technology and viticulture. It has also been shaped profoundly by the reports of wine writers, who are known to have their personal preferences. Scores and descriptions by The Wine Spectator or The Wine Advocate have so moved markets that many winemakers change course to accommodate those professional tastes that garner the high scores.

So, when you are wine tasting and looking at purchasing a nice bottle of wine, I thought I would share some commonly used words to describe wine. This way you can get familiar with them, and use them now and again when tasting wine.

Here are a few words that you would use if you weren’t the biggest fan of a particular wine:

Acetic
Alcoholic
Astringent
Bitter
Chalky
Cooked
Dusty
Faded
Flat
Gassy
Kelpy
Old
Overripe
Resinous
Rough
Senile
Soft
Sour
Thin
Vegetal

Those are words that are used to describe the flaws. It’s not often that we see wine writers describing wines as senile, rough, cooked, rough, or faded. But it can happen, especially with wines that weren’t aged properly.

Here are a few of the words that wine drinkers will use to describe wine:

Aromatic
Acidic
Beautiful
Bold
Buttery
Crisp
Clean
Citrusy
Complex
Delicious
Dry
Elegant
Exciting
Easy drinking
Earthy
Fresh
Fruity
Fruit Forward
Full
Fun-to-Drink
Herbal
Historic
Intense
Interesting
Lively
Mouth-Filling
Oaky
Pretty
Rich
Ripe
Round
Sensuous
Silky
Smooth
Solid
Sweet
Vanilla-y

The term elegant is used frequently to describe wines leaning towards dryness, complexity, and low alcohol. This, in contrast to the rich.

What are some of the words that you have used to describe wine?

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Ham and Egg Crescent Rolls – Easy Breakfast Idea

November 15th, 2017May 10th, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

These Ham and Egg Crescent Rolls are the perfect easy breakfast recipe. In about 20 minutes you can have these Ham and Egg Crescent Rolls on the breakfast table. Enjoy!

Ham and Egg Crescent Rolls

Easy Breakfast Idea

During the week, breakfast is pretty simple in our house, we are talking cereal, toaster strudels or pop-tarts. So, when the weekend comes I like to something a little less…well, as my kids put it… “boring.” These Ham and Egg Crescent Rolls are super easy to make, and we all love them. What isn’t there to love about ham, eggs, cheese and crescent rolls??

If you have someone that doesn’t like ham or cheese, these breakfast crescent rolls are completely customizable. Leave out the cheese, add in bacon or sausage, or just do eggs! Fill up the crescents rolls with whatever your family would enjoy. We had leftover ham from the night before, so that’s what I used and it was delish.

To make these Ham and Egg Crescent Rolls all you need in a few eggs, one package of crescent rolls, shredded cheese, and ham.

In a medium pan, you saute the ham pieces then add in the eggs, once they are softly scrambled set them aside and get ready to fill your crescent rolls. Once your crescent rolls are filled, bake them at 375 degrees for about 12 – 14 minutes, or until the crescents rolls are golden brown.

Then enjoy!

Looking for more ways to use leftover ham?

Got leftover ham from a family gathering or holiday feast? Don’t let it go to waste! Here are some delicious ways to repurpose leftover ham:

Ham and Cheese Quiche: Whip up a hearty quiche by incorporating diced ham, cheese, and vegetables into a savory custard mixture. Pour into a pie crust and bake until golden and set for a satisfying meal any time of day.
Ham and Potato Soup: Simmer leftover ham with potatoes, onions, carrots, and broth for a comforting and nourishing soup. Add herbs and seasonings to taste, and enjoy a cozy bowl of homemade goodness.
Ham and Veggie Stir-Fry: Turn leftover ham into a flavorful stir-fry by sautéing it with mixed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and snap peas. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ham and Cheese Panini: Layer sliced ham and cheese between slices of bread or baguette, and grill until crispy and golden. Serve with mustard or aioli for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
Ham and Egg Breakfast Burritos: Roll up scrambled eggs, diced ham, cheese, and salsa in a tortilla for a protein-packed breakfast on the go. Wrap in foil for an easy grab-and-go meal option.
Classic Ham and Cheese Sandwich: Pile it on and enjoy! Be sure to add your favorite condiments.

Feel free to customize the seasoning of your egg mixture to suit your preferences. You can add a dash of salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the filling!

Now, here is my Ham and Egg Crescent Rolls recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

4 from 1 vote

Ham and Egg Crescent Rolls – Easy Breakfast Recipe

Looking for an easy breakfast recipe? Look no further than these Ham and Egg Crescents Rolls. Have them on the table in about 20 minutes!

Prep Time7

Cook Time13

Total Time20

Course: Breakfast

Keyword: breakfast, easy recipes, eggs, ham

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

1 package of refrigerated crescent rolls
4 eggs
1/4 cup diced ham
Shredded cheddar cheese – if desired

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees
Open the crescent rolls on a non-stick cookie sheet.
In a medium pan, saute the ham and add in the eggs.
Cook eggs until they are softly scrambled.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on the rolls if desired (feel free to add cheese to some and not others).
Scoop the egg mixture onto the wider part of the crescent rolls.
Once all the crescent rolls are filled, wrap the thinner part of the crescent roll around, fold up the ends if desired.
Bake rolls for 12 – 14 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy!

I hope you and your family enjoy these Ham and Egg Crescent Rolls as much as we do!

What is one of your family’s favorite easy breakfast recipes?

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15 Simple Ways To Cut Fat In Cooking Over The Holidays

November 13th, 2017December 2nd, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Cutting the extra fat and calories in your cooking is easier than you think. Check out these 15 Simple Ways To Cut Fat In Cooking Over The Holidays. This post was sponsored by the National 4-H Council as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

15 Simple Ways To Cut Fat In Cooking Over The Holidays

The holidays are just about here and I know we are all thinking about what will be on the menu. And at the same time, we are dreading the calories and pounds that seem to come over the holidays. While we all love eating our traditional holiday foods, there are ways to still enjoy them and we can cut some of the extra fat and calories. I promise, no one will walk away from the dinner table saying that they missed the extra fat 😉

Now, here are 15 Simple Ways To Cut Fat In Cooking Over The Holidays:

When preparing your pans, use nonstick cooking spray instead of butter or oil. If you need to use something besides cooking spray use olive oil, avoid the solid fats.
Cut off the visible fat from meat, and don’t eat it 😉 I know some folks love the fatty parts…and the skin. Try to avoid both.
Don’t deep-fry the turkey. Baking it is a much healthier option.
Don’t use heavy cream or whole milk. You can use fat-free chicken broth or fat-free milk in your mashed potatoes (if you want to get crazy, add in some cauliflower!).
Use the fat-free chicken stock and use that in your gravies and stews too.
Grab the healthier version of soups when using them for your casseroles (green bean casserole anyone?).
Consider steaming or roasting your vegetables instead drowning them in butter. I never knew my kids would eat broccoli or cauliflower until I started roasting it.
Add in some extra vegetables into some of your dishes, like pot pies or in your stuffing. We put all sorts of diced vegetables (and sometimes an apple) in our stuffing.
Use fat-free milk and low-fat cream cheese in creamy soups and casseroles instead of heavy cream.
Use low-fat cream cheese in your cheesecakes and appetizers.
Put some fruit and vegetables out with all those appetizers.
Use reduced fat cheeses and reduce the amount you use. No one needs extra cheesy! When I find a recipe online that calls for cheese, I almost always cut the amount used in half and no one complains.
Substitute reduced fat sour cream or greek yogurt instead of the full-fat version of sour cream.
Use applesauce, plain nonfat yogurt or greek yogurt to replace some of the sugar and fats in baking.
Time for breakfast and brunch? Choose chicken or turkey sausages and Canadian bacon or turkey bacon over the pork and beef options. Just amp up the seasonings a little if you are worried about flavor. I usually add in some red pepper flakes 🙂

Our kids love helping us in the kitchen, every day, but especially over the holidays. There is just something extra special about creating a meal together as a family, because you are also creating memories. And if you are teaching your children how to cook healthier in the kitchen, you are also creating healthy life-long habits. While I love showing my children how to lead a healthier lifestyle, did you know that nearly 16 million children live in households that are food insecure, meaning they don’t have consistent access to food throughout the year. Those households don’t have the opportunity to consistently teach their children how to choose healthier meal options.
(you can browse current: Publix ad, Meijer Ad and Target Ad.)

Thankfully, there are programs like the 4-H Food Smart Families program that targets families eligible for or receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and/or WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) benefits and teaches them how to plan, shop and prepare healthy meals on a budget.

What is the 4-H Food Smart Families program?

The Food Smart Families program empowers youth and their families by equipping them with the knowledge to make healthy living part of their everyday lives through nutrition education, cooking skills and food budgeting skills to bring more affordable, nutritious foods into their households.

Since 2011, UnitedHealthcare and 4-H have partnered together to deliver healthy living programs to more than 340,000 youth and their families in 14 states, and their goal is to eventually expand it across the entire 4-H Extension network that exists in every county across the country.

Learn more about 4-H Food Smart Families

Do you enjoy cooking with your kids? Will you look for ways to cut the fat in your cooking this holiday season and beyond?

Be sure to follow 4-H on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for more tips on healthy living and more.

While you are at it, to find Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google + for more helpful tips and healthy recipes! And be sure to follow me on Instagram.

An Overview Of Wine Grapes and The Regions Where They Grow

November 4th, 2017September 1st, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

There are thousands of different types of wines out there to choose from. Let this Overview Of Wine Grapes and The Regions Where They Grow guide you on the varietals and regions.

An Overview Of Wine Grapes and The Regions Where They Grow

Grapes of all sizes and colors are harvested around the globe for the sole purpose of making wine. Most countries have cultivated their own signature grapes. According to wine expert Steve de Long there are approximately 10,000 distinct wine varieties.

Even with such massive competition, certain grapes stand out for making the world’s best known or best-loved wines. The list below is a sampling of wines that are unique in color, flavor, and taste. Even the same grape creates different flavored wines depending upon the soil content and climate, including the amount of sun and rain usual to the region.

Red Wines

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are some of the giants in the winemaking world. They produce big, robust wines that can age without spoiling. In southern France, a serendipitous crossing occurred between a Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc. Ever since that time, back in the seventeenth century, Cabernet Sauvignon has been captivating the hearts and palates of wine lovers everywhere. Besides France, vintners have had success growing this grape in both California and Chile. Some people say it tastes like blackcurrants, vanilla, and coffee; others think oak, mint, cedar, or chocolate. A rich, gamey brown edged Cab is sometimes referred to as a Barnyard Cabernet.

Pinot Noir

Sophistication, not strength, is the Pinot Noir’s claim to fame. This elegant grape whispers its extraordinary flavors but is sensuous, silky, and slyly scrumptious. Another wine that is known to have a variety of flavors depending upon its age, it can display a youngberry and cherry flavor until it matures. Once matured, the wine becomes leathery, earthy, and pleasantly gamy—Pinot Noir’s grown in France, California, Oregon, and New Zealand.

Zinfandel

A native of California, Zinfandel is the epitome of the state: big, lovable, spicy, whimsical, and very easy to enjoy. The Zinfandel grape originally came from Croatia, yet this wine is often called America’s sweetheart. This is not a pink wine, that wine is White Zinfandel and is often too sweet for most palates. This wine is blood red and tough enough to complete with prime rib and horseradish sauce.

Merlot

Merlot was royally mocked in the 2004 movie Sideways for being weak and light, yet many wine enthusiasts say it is a regal, gentle and lush. Also described as mellow and smooth, Merlot can taste like chocolate, plums, peppers or spices. Merlot grapes are found around the world. France, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, California, Washington, and British Columbia are some of the countries that make Merlot wines.

Syrah or Shiraz

If you are in Australia, call this grape Shiraz. Otherwise, it is known as Syrah. Full-bodied and deep in flavor, Syrah has eclectic flavors that range from leather to pepper, smoke to blackberry, and from mint to chocolate. For character and layers of flavor, this grape does not disappoint. Adaptable to cool temperatures, these grapes grow well in northern California and France.

White Wines

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is an outstanding French wine that is also being made in California, Chile, Italy, and New Zealand. This wine has more potential flavors than most as its flavor is often layered with many pungent, sweet, and metallic notes. It can be grassy or floral; have hints of currant or berries. It can surprise the palate with its zest and diverse undertones such as peas, asparagus, and green beans or mango, grapefruit, and passion fruit. These grapes flourish in parts of France, California, Chile, Italy, and other regions.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay flavors range from light, floral, and tart to deep, woody, and creamy with tones of melon, hazelnut, butter, pineapple, and citrus. Chardonnay grapes thrive in France, Australia, South Africa, South America, New Zealand, and the United States, a great white for people who love reds.

Riesling

German winemakers use this variety to make wines that go from desert dry to dessert sweet. Australia is perfecting their Rieslings with a lime undertone while Germany’s Rieslings vary in flavor from region to region. You either love this wine, or you hate it.

Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio

In France, this popular grape is known as Pinot Gris; In Italy, this grape is called Pinot Grigio. The Italian version is a crisp, dry, and very drinkable wine while the French and American wines are heavier, spicier and contain more complex favors, including plum and smoke.

This guide is simply an introduction to a few of the popular types of wines, wine grapes and the regions where the grapes come from. I created the guide to help you get a basic understanding of the wines.
(you can browse current: Publix ad, Meijer Ad and Target Ad.)

Learn more about wine pairing, wine regions and specific types of wines here on the blog.

Be sure to check out Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more wine tips, cocktails, healthy recipes, and fun things to do.

How To Make Homemade Breakfast Sausage

November 1st, 2017August 29th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #LEMLoveToProcess #CollectiveBias

How To Make Homemade Breakfast Sausage

There is nothing more delicious than food grown, caught, hunted, or prepared by your own hands! As you all know our family loves to cook and share the recipes with you so that you can enjoy these little joys of life right in your own kitchen. Growing up in Michigan my family has always loved to grow their own crops, fish on one of the many lakes, hunt out on the acres of open land, and then enjoy the benefits of fresh food from nature right on to the table in your kitchen.

My husband has hunted alligator, quail, deer, and we enjoy fishing often. The one thing he always says afterwards is how peaceful his day was enjoying nature as he walked through the woods, waded in the water while fishing, or sat quietly in a deer blind. I love being able to take his hard day of work out in nature and turning it into something delicious and healthy!

There are so many benefits to preparing your own food and meats at home. First and most important is the health and quality aspect. When you buy prepared meats from the store, we have no idea what type of preservatives or other ingredients are in them. When you do it yourself, you know exactly what you are eating and can choose what to put into your recipe. Another great benefit, especially when you are raising a family, is the cost. The cost of fish or meat can range greatly according to the time of year, where you live, and what kind of sale the grocery store has to offer. When you hunt or fish, the only “cost” is your time. What better way to spend your time than enjoying nature? Our favorite benefit of preparing our own food at home is that it is a great way to spend time with the family! Of course creating recipes and making food at home takes time, but everyone can contribute and we have fun doing it.

Today I am going to share with you how easy it is to process your own meats into something you can eat for breakfast every morning!

Ready to make homemade breakfast sausage too? Hover over the photo to click through to LEMProducts.com and the products to get you started!

Using the LEM Big Bite® Grinder – 0.5 HP, we made some awesome maple breakfast sausage patties with Backwoods Sausage Seasoning. The LEM Big Bite® Grinder is so easy to use you will be whipping up homemade sausages, burgers, and grinding meat all of the time!

The LEM Big Bite® Grinder comes with all stainless steel accessories including:

1 Meat Pan/Hopper
1 Stuffing Plate, 1 Course Plate
1 Fine Plate
1 Knife
3 Stuffing Tubes to make sausages/hot dogs
1 Meat Stomper

Compared to other meat grinders we have used in the past, the LEM Big Bite® Grinder was so much more efficient. It was very quiet, very fast, and never clogged. Due to the Big Bite Technology the augur that grinds the meat is spaced out and pushes the meat through faster and effortlessly. We grounded up 5 pounds of meat in less than one minute!

The only thing you need to do to get started once your grinder is assembled is to decide how coarse you would like the ground meat. Select the plate you would like to use, attach it, and the screw on the collar and you are good to go. Considering all of the stainless steel parts and accessories that the LEM Big Bite® Grinder comes with, clean up was a breeze. You can either wash by hand or toss all of the parts right into the dishwasher.

What you will need to make your own homemade breakfast sausage:

LEM Big Bite® Grinder
5lbs Meat of Choice (pork, venison, beef, or combination)
Sharp Knife
1 packet of LEM Sausage Seasonings, we used the Backwoods Maple Sausage Seasoning

How to make Homemade Breakfast Sausage:

Step 1: Trim meat and cut meat into strips

Step 2: Load the meat on to the Meat Pan/Hopper on the LEM Big Bite® Grinder

Step 3: Feed the grinder with the meat

Step 4: Season meat with the Backwoods Sausage Seasoning according to package.

Step 5: Shape meat into patties

Step 6: Freeze or cook from fresh!

We made about 30 breakfast patties.

Learn more about the Big Bite® Grinder

Print Recipe

5 from 3 votes

How To Make Homemade Breakfast Sausage

Make your own homemade breakfast sausage using the LEM grinder and LEM sausage seasoning. We used the Maple Backwoods Sausage Seasoning.

Prep Time25

Total Time25

Course: Breakfast

Keyword: homemade, lem sausage seasonings, sausage

Servings:

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

5 lbs Meat of Choice pork, venison, beef, or combination
1 packet of LEM Backwoods Sausage Seasoning we used Maple Breakfast Fresh Sausage Seasoning

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Trim meat and cut meat into strips
Load the meat on to the Meat Pan/Hopper on the LEM Big Bite® Grinder
Feed the grinder with the meat
Season meat according to package instructions
Shape meat into patties - we just used our hands
Freeze or cook from fresh
Enjoy!

Notes

When cooking your sausages be sure that they are cooked thoroughly before enjoying.

Are you ready to start meat processing at home too? Visit LEMProducts.com and check out the extensive line of LEM meat processing products such as: The Big Bite® Grinder, Sausage Stuffer, Dehydrator, or Vacuum Sealer.

Why choose LEM™ Products?

Simply because they are the best. We actually own the Sausage Stuffer as well, and we love it. LEM is a family owned company, passionate about bringing innovation to game processing. They believe in this grinder so much that they extended the warranty to 5 years.

Be sure to check out LEM Products on Instagram, Pinterest, Youtube, and on Facebook to stay up to date with everything you need in your kitchen to make it homemade.

Looking for some more homemade deliciousness? These Pickled Peppers and this Cherry Habanero Jelly would be amazing on homemade sausage, in freshly made burgers and more!

How To Pickle Hot Peppers

How To Make Cherry Habanero Jelly

Find Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google + and check out all my delicious recipes.

How To Make An Apple Cider Mule Cocktail

October 30th, 2017September 16th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Grab the ginger beer and create this delicious twist on the classic Moscow Mule. Enjoy this Apple Cider Mule Cocktail this fall season and beyond.

Apple Cider Moscow Mule Cocktail

You all know that I love a good Mule. I had made a couple versions here on the blog, Sun Kissed Moscow Mule and the Winey Moscow Mule, but this is version is perfect for fall and winter. To be honest, I will probably be having it in the summer too 😉 I love “lighter” cocktails, I hate feeling full after having a drink…unless it’s one of my smoothies. So, when I was thinking of ways to create a seasonally inspired cocktail, I decided the mule was the way to go.

I added in apple for the crispness, and cinnamon because…well, don’t just cinnamon and apple make a delicious combination?! The ginger beer in my Apple Cider Moscow Mule lightens the cocktail up a bit, and even though the weather is a bit cooler now, don’t worry, the apple bourbon still warms ya up 😉

I know apple cider is only available for a limited time down here in Florida, so if you want to make this outside of the “Apple Cider Season” I recommend giving apple juice a try.

Now, here is my Apple Cider Mule Cocktail Recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you an make it again and again.

Print Recipe

5 from 1 vote

How To Make An Apple Cider Mule

Looking for a crisp twist on the traditional Moscow Mule? Well, this Apple Cider Mule is it. Learn How To Make An Apple Cider Mule and sip back.

Prep Time2

Total Time2

Course: Cocktail

Keyword: alcohol, cocktails, drinks, fall, moscow mule

Servings:

Calories: 176kcal

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

Ice
2 oz. Apple Bourbon - I used Jim Beam Apple
2 oz. Apple Cider chilled
2 oz. Ginger Beer chilled
Apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish

US Customary - Metric

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Add ingredients as listed above into your favorite cocktail glass - copper mug/mason jar
Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks if desired
Sip and enjoy!

Nutrition

I hope you enjoy this Apple Cider Mule as much as I do!

What is one of your favorite cocktail recipes?

Find Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram be sure to check out all my delicious recipes.

Looking for more cocktail recipes?

PEARfectly Healthy Protein Smoothie

October 26th, 2017September 1st, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Looking for a healthy protein smoothie to start your day or for post work-out? Try this Healthy Protein Pear Smoothie. While this post is sponsored, all opinions and the smoothie recipe are my own.

PEARfectly Healthy Protein Smoothie

Do you know what I love most smoothies? You can put just about anything them. The combinations are basically endless with all the beautiful fruits and vegetables out there. Now, I’m not promising that every combination you try you are gonna love. In fact, you may throw one or two down the drain. The great thing about you being here and being a part of my blog, is that I have over 50 smoothies that I have tried and love right here at your fingers tips!

In fact, I have another one for you today. You will notice that my smoothies are a pretty even mix of fruits and vegetables, while fruit is sweet and delicious, it also sugary. I want my smoothies to not only be delicious, but healthy. When I start my day with a healthy smoothie, I feel better. I know that I am giving my body what it needs. You will also notice that I put cinnamon (helps metabolism), turmeric (helps with inflammation), chia seeds (because they are nutritional powerhouses), and protein powder in most of my smoothies, I will happily take the extra health benefits every chance I can.

Today’s smoothie recipe has pear in it, and this is actually the first time I have put pear in a smoothie! I usually buy it and put it on my pizza or in salads, but from now on, I will be using them more in my smoothies! I loved the crisp, freshness that the pear added to my smoothie.

Now, here is my Healthy Protein Pear Smoothie recipe. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

5 from 2 votes

PEARfectly Healthy Protein Smoothie

Smoothies are one of the easiest ways to get in your fruits and vegetables. Plus, smoothies are delicious! Try this PEARfectly Healthy Protein Smoothie.

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Smoothie

Keyword: pears, protein shake, protein smoothie, smoothie

Servings:

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

1/2 banana
1/2 pear
10 raspberries
1 carrot or 5 baby carrots
5 slices cucumber
1/2 celery stalk
handful greens
4 ice cubes
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon tumeric
1 teaspoon chia seeds
1 scoop favorite protein powder
4 - 6 oz liquid - water/coconut water/almondmilk/milk

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Place all ingredients as listed above into your favorite blending device
Blend until smooth
Enjoy!

I hope you like this Healthy Pear Protein Smoothie as much as I do!

When prepping your fruits and vegetables for your smoothie, be sure they are clean! Even if you are using organic produce, you have no idea how many times they were handled and by who. And when you wash your produce, make sure you are using an all-natural product like Veggie Wash. Veggie Wash safely and effectively removes wax, soil, and agricultural chemicals found on standard and organic produce. It cuts through wax and chemicals to leave fruits and vegetables truly, safely clean. What’s more, Veggie Wash uses ingredients from citrus, corn, and coconut, to remove harmful surfaces. Get rid of the dirt and preservatives and keep the nutrients!

Learn more about Veggie Wash online, ad be sure to follow along on Twitter and Facebook to stay social.

Be sure to check out all the delicious smoothie recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

What is one of your favorite smoothie recipes?

Looking for more healthy smoothie recipes?

Avocado Pineapple Banana Protein Smoothie

Blackberry Beet Smoothie

Strawberry Banana Carrot Greens Smoothie

Strawberry Apple Green Smoothie

Affordable Health Insurance For Children

October 25th, 2017February 12th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

There is affordable health insurance for children in the state of Florida, thanks to Florida KidCare. Learn how your child or children could get low-cost or no-cost health insurance. While this post is sponsored, all opinions and my passion for helping Florida children get the health insurance they need are my own.

Affordable Health Insurance For Children

Are you a parent? It’s amazing isn’t it? You actually created a human out of love, a little person that will love YOU unconditionally for the rest of your life. A person that will love you with no make-up on, a person that will not judge you, a person that will forgive you when you forget to make breakfast, a person that can make you smile by simply looking at you. You wonder how you could possibly be so lucky to have them in your life, in fact, you can’t even imagine what your life was like before you had them. Your children complete you. My children complete me.

And with that amazing love, comes amazing responsibility. You are now responsible for another human being! WOW! Being a parent is the most rewarding job in the whole world, but it also means that we have a lot to do to make sure that they are healthy, safe and ready to take on the world.

The first steps to keeping your child healthy is caring for them, feeding them right, making sure they get enough sleep, and of course taking them to the doctors for well visits and when they are sick. Both of my kids had to have shots and check-ups before they started school this year. While neither were sick, the school wouldn’t let them in on the first day without their check-ups. A healthy child doesn’t miss many school days, and if they aren’t missing school days, they are learning as much as they can. They are on their way to reaching their full academic potential, and that helps them for the rest of their lives.

When I paid that bill, I remember it said that my insurance company was charged almost $400. For EACH CHILD. My kids are worth every penny of course, but what if I didn’t have health insurance? What if my husband’s job didn’t offer health insurance? What if I couldn’t afford health insurance? $800 is a lot of money.

Due to all those “what ifs” that parents experience there are 283,000 Florida children currently living without health insurance. 257,000 children is a staggering number isn’t it? Thank goodness there is Florida KidCare. According to Florida KidCare, 147,000 of those children are eligible for low-cost or completely free health and dental insurance with Florida KidCare. They just may not know it.

Is there affordable health insurance for children? Can children in Florida receive health insurance at an affordable rate?

The answer is YES.

The answer is Florida KidCare.

What is Florida KidCare?

Florida KidCare is the state’s comprehensive, low-cost health and dental insurance for kids from birth through the end of age 18.

How do you know if you are eligible for Florida KidCare?

Your child is eligible for Florida KidCare even if one or both parents are working.

Can Florida KidCare help find child health insurance if you don’t qualifyfor subsidized coverage?

Full-pay options are available to families that do not qualify for free or subsidized health insurance.

When is open enrollment for Florida KidCare?

Enrollment is year-round, so the time to apply is always now.

Can you keep your doctor with Florida KidCare?

You may be able to keep your doctor with Florida KidCare!

Do a lot of families use Florida KidCare? Is it something you can trust?

YES. Approximately 2.5 million Florida children rely on Florida KidCare for the head to toe coverage they need.

Learn more about Florida KidCare

Are you ready to apply for Florida KidCare? The process is easy and with school back in session and flu season quickly approaching, now is a great time to get started on finding affordable health insurance for your children.

Apply for Florida KidCare – you can also give them a call at 1-888-540-KIDS (5437) and TTY 1-800-955-8771

If you are a Florida resident, or know someone that is, please take moment and share this post. You could be the one that makes a difference in a child’s life.

Follow Florida KidCare on Facebook and Twitter to learn more.

While you are at it, be sure to check out Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more fun things to do in Florida, recipes, and more.