When choosing bananas for banana bread, use ripe bananas that have an even yellow colored peel with tiny brown spots.  This should ensure the best flavor andn a tender texture.

To check muffins to see if they are done, insert a wooden toothpick into the center.  The muffins are done when the toothpicks come out clean.

2 cups of cut up cooked chicken
1 tsp sugar
1/2 cup Thick N Chunky salsa
1 can (19 oz) mild enchilada sauce
1 can (11 oz) whole kernel corn
2 cups coarsely broken tortilla chips
1 cup shredded Cheddar Jack blend

Heat over 350 degrees. In a bowl, mix chicken, sugar, salsa, enchilada sauce, and corn.

Place tortilla chips in an ungreased baking dish. Top with chicken mixture. Sprinkle with cheese.

Bake 35 - 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

To make it easier to crack walnuts in the shell, let the walnuts sit in a bowl of very hot water for about 15 minutes.

Oat bran is very high in fiber which makes it a healthful addition to many baked goods.  It can be found in bother supermarkets and health food stores.

This easy to make recipe is better than Hamburger Helper.  However, it is only okay.  I am still trying to figure out what needs to be changed to make it excellent.  If you have any ideas, let me know!

1 lb ground beef
2 1/3 uncooked rotini pasta
1 tsp chili powder
2 1/4 cup water
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cups shredded taco flavored cheese

Brown ground beef and drain. Stir in uncooked pasta, chili powder, water, and tomatoes. Heat to boiling. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for around 10 - 12 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Remove from heat and let stand uncovered for 5 minutes. Stir in cheese until melted and sprinkle with additional chili powder.

During the first 15 minutes of baking a quick bread, avoid opening the oven or the bread may collapse.

Never use an electric mixer when making muffins.  It beats the batter too vigorously which will cause the muffins to be tough and have pointed, peaked tops.

Use a wire whisk instead of a spoon to combine dry ingredients.  It makes it much easier to thoroughly mix.

If you want an easy to cook recipe that allows you to give your family a bit from all the food groups, this is it. It is the perfect bite size for little toddlers too!

1 lb ground beef
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
1 jar (12 oz) beef gravy
1/2 tsp salt
1 bag frozen potatoes O’Brien with peppers and onions, thawed
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 12×8 inch (2 qt) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Brown ground beef and drain. Stir in mixed vegetables, gravy, and salt. Cook until vegetables are thawed and mixture is thoroughly heated.

In the baking dish, layer 3 cups of the potatoes and 1 cup of the cheese. Spoon the ground beef mixture over the cheese. Top with the remaining potatoes.

Cover with foil and bake 55 - 60 minutes or until bubbly. Remove foil and sprinkle remaining cheese. Bake uncovered 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with paprika before serving.