Homemade Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup

 A rich, homemade version of classic condensed soup—simple ingredients, no shortcuts, and full of real flavor.

This recipe comes from my mother’s recipe file, where making things from scratch was simply the way she cooked.

She rarely bought canned soups. Instead, she preferred to make her own so she knew exactly what went into them. It wasn’t complicated—it was just practical, and it tasted better.

This homemade cream of chicken soup is her way of replacing the canned version. It’s rich, creamy, and works perfectly in any recipe that calls for condensed soup.

Once you try this, it’s hard to go back to the can.

Ingredients: 

4 Tbsp butter
1/2 c. flour 
2 c. chicken broth
1 chicken bouillon cube or 1 tsp chicken bouillon powder (optional)
1 c. whole milk 
1/3 tsp. celery salt
1/3 tsp. onion powder
1/3 tsp. garlic powder
1/3 tsp. salt
1/3 tsp. pepper
1/2–1 cup finely diced cooked chicken (optional)

Directions: 

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for 3–5 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Do not brown. Remove from heat.

Gradually pour in 1/3 of the chicken broth, whisking constantly, so there are no lumps of flour.  Repeat with the next third of chicken broth.

Add the remaining chicken broth, chicken bouillon, milk, celery salt, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
 
Return the saucepan to the stove, over medium heat. This will thicken the soup.  

Whisk constantly until the mixture thickens to a condensed soup consistency.

Do not fully boil—remove from heat once thick.

Stir in finely diced cooked chicken if desired.

Tips for Best Success:

• Whisk constantly to prevent lumps
• Add liquid gradually—this is key for a smooth texture
• Keep heat moderate—high heat can cause scorching
• Warm milk helps prevent curdling and lumps

Variations & Substitutions:

• Use half-and-half for a richer soup
• Skip chicken for a smoother base (better for casseroles)
• Add a pinch of thyme or parsley for extra flavor
• Use low-sodium broth to control salt

Serving Suggestions:

• Use in casseroles, pot pies, or baked pasta dishes
• Stir into rice or noodles for a quick creamy side
• Thin slightly with broth for a simple soup

How to Store:

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
• Freezer: Up to 2 months
• To use: Thin with a little milk or broth if needed

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much does this equal in canned soup?
This recipe equals about 2 cans of condensed soup.

Can I use this in any recipe that calls for canned soup?
Yes—use it as a direct substitute.

Why is my soup too thick?
It’s meant to be condensed. Add a splash of milk or broth to thin.

Can I leave out the bouillon?
Yes, but it does add deeper flavor. 

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Bake (No Canned Soup)

A cozy, from-scratch comfort food classic made the way it used to be—simple, hearty, and full of real ingredients.

This recipe comes straight from my mother’s recipe box—the kind of meal she would make when there was leftover chicken that needed to be used up and a full day ahead of her.

She preferred cooking from scratch whenever she could, keeping things simple and practical. Meals like this weren’t fancy, but they were dependable, filling, and made with ingredients she trusted.

This creamy chicken macaroni bake is my version of how she would have made it—rich, comforting, and made without canned soups. Just a homemade sauce, tender chicken, and a warm, golden topping. 

Ingredients:

2 c. uncooked elbow macaroni
2 Tbs. butter
1 c. sliced fresh mushrooms (optional)
1 onion, minced
4 Tbs. butter
1/4 c. flour
2 c. chicken broth
1 to 1 1/4 c. milk
1 1/2 c.shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp. tarragon leaves
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. onion powder
salt and pepper to taste
2 c. diced, cooked chicken or turkey
1 c. frozen peas, thawed
1/4 c. buttered bread crumbs

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

In a cast iron Dutch oven, melt 2 Tbsp butter over medium heat.

Add mushrooms and onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until tender (do not brown). Remove from the pot and set aside.

In the same Dutch oven, melt 4 Tbsp butter over medium-low heat.

Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.

Slowly whisk in chicken broth, stirring constantly.
Add milk and continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 3–5 minutes.

Stir in cheddar cheese, tarragon, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until melted and creamy.

Add the cooked onion, mushrooms, chicken, peas, and macaroni. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Cover and bake for 30 minutes.

Stir, then sprinkle buttered bread crumbs over the top.

Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the topping is golden.

Tips for Best Success:

• Shred your own cheese for a smoother sauce (pre-shredded can be grainy)
• Keep heat moderate when making the sauce to prevent scorching
• Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue baking in the oven
• If the mixture looks thick before baking, add a splash of milk

Variations & Substitutions:

• Swap peas for broccoli or mixed vegetables
• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
• Replace cheddar with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack
• Add a pinch of Dijon mustard for deeper flavor
• Use turkey instead of chicken (great for leftovers)

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a simple green salad
• Add buttermilk biscuits or crusty bread
• Pair with steamed green beans or carrots
• Great as a complete one-dish meal for busy evenings

How to Store:

• Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days
• Freezer: Up to 2 months (best without topping)
• Reheating: Warm in oven or microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze it after baking?
Yes, though the texture is best if frozen before baking.

Why is my sauce too thick?
Pasta absorbs liquid as it bakes. Add a little milk before or after baking to loosen it.

Can I skip the mushrooms?
Absolutely—they’re optional, and the recipe will still be delicious. 

Buttery Garlic Rice

A simple, comforting side dish from my grandmother’s kitchen—full of rich butter and bold garlic flavor.

This recipe came from my grandmother, and it’s one I’ve always remembered—not just for the flavor, but for the garlic she grew herself. It was huge compared to anything from the store, and it gave this dish such a deep, rich flavor.

She would serve this buttery garlic rice as a simple side dish, or sometimes add chicken to make it a full meal. It’s one of those recipes that doesn’t need much—just a few ingredients, cooked the right way, and it turns out comforting and delicious every time.

Ingredients:

6 tablespoons butter
8–12 garlic cloves, minced (or 2 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic)
1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions: 

In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.

Add the rice and stir frequently until it turns a light golden color, about 2–3 minutes.

Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Once boiling, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Tips for Best Success:

• Toasting the rice adds extra flavor—don’t skip this step
• Add garlic after the rice browns slightly to prevent burning
• Keep heat low while simmering to avoid scorching
• Let the rice rest before fluffing for the best texture
• Use good-quality broth for deeper flavor

Variations & Substitutions:

• Add chicken: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken for a full meal
• Use garlic powder: Substitute 1–1 1/2 teaspoons if needed
• Extra buttery: Add 1–2 tablespoons butter at the end
• Herb twist: Add parsley or thyme for freshness
• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side with roasted chicken or beef
• Use as a base for a simple chicken and rice bowl
• Pair with grilled vegetables
• Add a fried egg on top for a quick meal
• Serve alongside soups or stews

How to Store:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
• To reheat:  Add a splash of broth or water and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but increase the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

Why is my rice mushy?
Too much liquid or overcooking can cause this. Stick to the measurements and timing.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well with a little added liquid.

Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Yes, 2 1/2 teaspoons works well as a substitute.

What type of rice works best?
Long grain white rice gives the best texture for this recipe.

Old-Fashioned Fry Bread (Soft, Fluffy & Perfect for Tacos)

A treasured recipe from my mother’s recipe box—golden, pillowy fry bread that’s just as good for savory tacos as it is with butter and honey.

This fry bread recipe comes straight from my mother’s recipe box, shared years ago by a close family friend. It’s one of those simple, dependable recipes that always turns out just right.

The dough fries up light and fluffy on the inside with a golden, slightly crisp exterior. It’s incredibly versatile—perfect for taco night or served warm with butter, honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Recipes like this are the kind you hold onto. They’re not fancy, but they’re the ones everyone remembers.

Ingredients:

1 2/3 cups milk
4 Tbs. butter
1 Tbs. sugar
1 package (2 1/4 tsp.) fast-rise yeast
1 egg, beaten
4 to 4 1/2 c. flour
Oil for frying

Directions:

Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Set aside.

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the milk and butter. Heat slowly, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. When small bubbles form around the edges and the temperature reaches 180°F, remove from heat.  Allow the mixture to cool to 110°F.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and yeast. Pour in the cooled milk mixture and stir until dissolved. Let sit in a warm place for 8–10 minutes, until foamy.

Add the beaten egg and 1 cup of flour. Stir well with a wooden spoon for 1–2 minutes.

Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes too stiff to stir.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a tea towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness and cut into squares. You can make them any size you like. For larger fry bread (perfect for tacos), you’ll get about 6 pieces. If you prefer smaller ones, cut the dough into about 10 squares.

Place on the prepared baking sheet, cover, and let rise again in a warm place for 20–30 minutes.

In a heavy skillet (cast iron works well), heat oil to 350°F.

Carefully add one piece of dough at a time to the hot oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown. Turn and cook the other side.

Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with remaining dough.

Tips for Best Success:

• Let the milk cool properly before adding yeast—too hot will kill it
• Don’t rush the rise time; it creates that soft, fluffy texture
• Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F for even cooking
• Avoid overcrowding the pan—fry one or two at a time
• Roll evenly, so all pieces cook at the same rate

Variations & Substitutions:

• No egg: You can omit the egg for a slightly simpler dough
• Sweet version: Add an extra tablespoon of sugar
• Whole wheat: Substitute up to 1 cup of flour with whole wheat flour
• Smaller pieces: Cut into strips or rounds instead of squares
• Quick topping twist: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar right after frying

Serving Suggestions:

• Use as a base for tacos or Navajo-style fry bread
• Serve warm with butter and honey
• Top with powdered sugar for a simple treat
• Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a dessert-style version
• Pair with soups or stews as a side

How to Store:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days (reheat before serving)
• Freezer: Freeze in layers with parchment between pieces for up to 2 months
• To reheat: Warm in a skillet or oven at 300°F until heated through

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

Why didn’t my dough rise?
Most likely the milk was too hot, or the yeast was inactive. Make sure the liquid is around 110°F.

Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, and you can skip the proofing step if desired, though it’s still helpful for consistency.

What oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil like vegetable oil or canola oil.

Can I bake this instead of frying?
This recipe is designed for frying. Baking will result in a very different texture. 

Old-Fashioned Creamy Hamburger Potato Soup

This old-fashioned hamburger potato soup is rich, creamy, and comforting—made with ground beef, potatoes, and cheese for an easy family dinner. 

This creamy potato and hamburger soup is one of those simple meals that proves you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something truly satisfying.

My mom always believed that meals didn’t have to be fancy—especially when you’re watching your pennies. What mattered most was that it tasted good and gave you more time to spend with your family.

This soup is hearty, creamy, and filling, made with everyday ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and a handful of vegetables. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up and makes everyone feel at home.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 c. beef broth
4 c. of peeled & diced Russet potatoes
1 1/2 c. frozen vegetable mix
2 tsp. dried basil
1 1/2 tsp. parsley flakes
3/4 c. milk
1 1/2 Tbs. cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces cheddar, pepper jack or your favorite cheese cubed

Directions:  

In a large cast iron Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease if needed.

Stir in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Add the potatoes, beef broth, frozen vegetables, basil, and parsley. Stir to combine.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender (about 15–20 minutes).

In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the milk until smooth.

Gradually stir the milk mixture into the soup. Cook, stirring constantly, until the soup thickens.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Stir in the cubed cheese. Cover and let sit for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.

Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Tips for Best Success:

• Dice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate
• Drain excess grease from beef for a cleaner flavor
• Stir frequently after adding cornstarch to prevent lumps
• Add cheese slowly and stir gently to keep the soup smooth
• If soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk

Variations & Substitutions:

• Lighter Version: Use ground turkey instead of beef
• No Frozen Veg Mix: Use fresh carrots, corn, or peas
• Extra Creamy: Replace part of the milk with half-and-half
• Different Cheese: Try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Velveeta-style cheese for extra smoothness
• Add Bacon: Stir in cooked bacon for extra flavor
• Spicy Version: Use pepper jack and add a pinch of red pepper flakes

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with crusty bread or biscuits
• Pair with a simple green salad
• Add crackers for dipping
• Top with extra shredded cheese or fresh parsley

How to Store:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed
• Freezing: Can be frozen, but texture may change slightly due to potatoes and dairy

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and the flavors deepen even more after a day in the fridge.

Why is my soup too thick?
Add more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes—Yukon gold works well and gives a slightly creamier texture.

Can I skip the cornstarch?
Yes, but the soup will be thinner.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is classic, but any good melting cheese works well. 

Old-Fashioned Coconut Pecan Praline Cookies

These no-bake coconut pecan praline cookies are sweet, chewy, and full of rich caramel flavor—an easy heirloom dessert recipe.

These no-bake coconut praline cookies are one of those special treats that feel more like candy than cookies. They come from my mother’s recipe file, and I always think of my aunt when I make them—she would have these ready whenever we came to visit.

Even though I don’t usually prefer nuts in cookies or fudge, this recipe has always been the exception. The combination of toasted coconut, pecans, and that rich, buttery praline mixture is just too good to pass up.

They’re simple to make, don’t require an oven, and set up into sweet little clusters that are perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.

Ingredients: 

2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. evaporated milk
1/2 c. light corn syrup
1/2 c. (1 stick) salted butter 
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 c. unsweetened flaked coconut
2 c. chopped pecans
1 tsp. flaked sea salt

Directions:

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

 In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, and butter. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stop stirring and allow it to cook until it reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage). This usually takes about 3–5 minutes.

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Add the coconut and chopped pecans. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture thickens slightly and begins to cool, about 4–5 minutes.

Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.

Lightly sprinkle each cookie with flaked sea salt.

Allow the cookies to cool completely until set.

Tips for Best Success:

• Use a candy thermometer for accuracy—temperature is key
• Do not stir while boiling, or the texture may become grainy
• Work quickly once the mixture thickens—it sets fast
• If cookies don’t set, the mixture likely didn’t reach temperature
• If too thick, you can add a tiny splash of milk and gently rewarm

Variations & Substitutions:

• No Nuts: Omit pecans (texture will be softer and more candy-like)
• Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the tops after setting
• Toasted Coconut: Lightly toast for deeper flavor
• Different Nuts: Try walnuts instead of pecans
• Extra Salted Caramel Flavor: Add a pinch of salt to the mixture itself

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a sweet treat with coffee or tea
• Add to holiday cookie trays
• Package for gifting
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert

How to Store:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Refrigerator: Keeps up to 1–2 weeks (firmer texture)
• Freezing: Freeze in layers for up to 2 months

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why didn’t my cookies set?
The mixture likely didn’t reach 235°F. Temperature is key for proper texture.

Why are my cookies grainy?
Stirring during the boiling stage can cause sugar crystallization.

Can I make these without a thermometer?
Yes—use the soft-ball test (a drop in cold water forms a soft ball).

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but work quickly when dropping cookies—they set fast.

Are these cookies or candy?
They’re really a bit of both—soft praline candy in cookie form. 

Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

A comforting pork chop scalloped potato casserole made with tender pork chops, creamy sauce, and layers of potatoes—an easy heirloom family recipe. From my mother's recipe box.

This pork chop scalloped potato casserole is one of those hearty, comforting meals that always brought everyone to the table. It’s a simple recipe from my mother’s recipe box, made with everyday ingredients and baked slowly until everything is tender and full of flavor.

The pork chops rest right on top of layers of creamy potatoes, soaking up all that rich, homemade sauce as it bakes. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with warmth and makes you look forward to dinnertime.

Recipes like this don’t need anything fancy—they’re built on simple steps and good ingredients, just the way home cooking should be.

Ingredients:

4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 Tbs. flour
1 1/2 c. milk (or 2 c. for extra creamy potatoes)
1 c. chicken broth
2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp. paprika
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.

In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Sear the pork chops for 3–5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Cook, stirring, until the onion is softened and translucent.

Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to get the flavorful bits into the sauce.  Remove from heat.  

Lightly butter a casserole dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom.

Pour half of the sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the cheese.

Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.

Sprinkle paprika evenly over the top.

Place the seared pork chops on top of the potato layers.

Cover and bake for 1 hour.

Remove the cover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (or higher for more tenderness).

Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Best Success:

• Slice potatoes thin and evenly (a mandoline helps) for even cooking
• Don’t skip searing—it adds a lot of flavor
• Stir the sauce constantly to avoid lumps
• If potatoes aren’t tender, cover and bake a bit longer
• Let it rest before serving so the sauce sets properly

Variations & Substitutions:

• No Cheese Version: Omit cheese for a more traditional scalloped potato style
• Extra Creamy: Replace part of the milk with heavy cream
• Add Vegetables: Layer in mushrooms or thinly sliced carrots
• Boneless Pork Chops: Can be used, but reduce cooking time slightly
• Different Cheese: Try Colby Jack or Gruyère for a richer flavor
• Herb Addition: Add thyme or rosemary to the sauce

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with green beans or buttered peas
• Add a simple side salad for balance
• Pair with warm dinner rolls or biscuits
• A side of applesauce complements the pork nicely

How to Store:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days
• Reheat: Warm in the oven (covered) or microwave until heated through
• Freezing: Can be frozen, though potatoes may soften slightly upon thawing

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready (add a few extra minutes).

Why are my potatoes still firm?
They may be sliced too thick. Continue baking covered until tender.

Do I have to sear the pork chops first?
You can skip it, but searing adds much better flavor.

Can I use russet or Yukon gold potatoes?
Yes—both work well. Yukon golds will be slightly creamier.

Is the pork safe at 145°F?
Yes, that’s the recommended safe temperature. Cooking higher will make it more tender.