The Thompson Kitchen

Approachable, everyday recipes

Gretchen Blazer Thompson

Cocoa Krispy Treat Nests

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How can you not smile when you see these nests? We used to make all kinds of “themed” Rice Krispy treats when I was growing up and they’re still so nostalgic to me. Plus, Cocoa Krispy treats are one of my dad’s favorites so we were (and still are!) always finding excuses to make them.

This would be such a fun project to do with kids. I love making them now, but think they’ll be even more special when I can make them with Guy next Easter. But something tells me he’ll be more focused on eating than helping…

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Roasted Veggie Grilled Cheese

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Who doesn’t love grilled cheese? Add roasted veggies to make it a meal, even better!

You can roast whatever veggies you have on hand, but my favorite combination is zucchini, bell pepper, and onion. The combo is delicious and makes the sandwich feel heartier. Even better? You can roast the veggies ahead of time so the sandwich comes together in no time. Perfect for busy nights.

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Eating and Drinking Lately

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Happy Friday! I hope everyone is having a great week – it’s finally warmer and sunny in Columbus so we’ve been taking full advantage! I’ve been cooking and drinking some great things lately, many of which haven’t made the blog, so I thought I would share. I hope it inspires something delicious for you this weekend!

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Tomato goat cheese puff pastry tart

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My sister-in-law, Casey makes a version of this tart and I always love it! It’s what inspired me to make this. Plus, it’s the perfect appetizer because everyone loves it, it looks super impressive, but it’s secretly super simple to make.

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Cinnamon Sugar Sour Cream Coffee Cake

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Is there anything more comforting or nostalgic than cinnamon and sugar? My mom used to make a version of this coffee cake when I was growing up and the taste and smell take me back to my childhood. I love it!

The sour cream makes the cake incredibly moist and tender. Plus it helps keep the cake moist for a couple days, so it’s the perfect thing to make a head of time for a brunch or holiday. Or to eat warm out of the oven on a snowy Tuesday because, why not?!

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Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

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Have you made homemade pizza in a cast iron skillet before? If not you’re missing out! It produces the most delicious pizza with a crust that’s crispy on the bottom and sides. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!

The best part is how fun any easy they are to make. Either buy your favorite dough or if you’re feeling fancy, make your own. Then put on your favorite toppings. Perfect for a dinner party, an activity to do with your kids, or just a quiet date night in. Now open a bottle of wine (or champagne, our favorite drink with pizza!) and lets get cooking!

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Valentine’s Ideas

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Even though Valentine’s day will look different for most of us this year, there’s no reason we can’t make it fun and festive! Whether you’re celebrating with a significant other or family or a few close friends, I’ve got you covered with recipe and wine ideas!

To make it feel extra festive, why not buy a course, like an appetizer or dessert to support your favorite local restaurant and then make the rest. I also love the idea of ordering dinner from your favorite restaurant and making a fancy dessert!

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Beer Cheese

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With the big game this weekend, I thought it would be fun to share a favorite game time snack. This beer cheese is one of Rich’s and my favorites. It’s more flavorful than normal beer cheese thanks to two types of cheese, sautéed shallot, and a good beer. Plus, you can either eat it right away or keep it warm in a mini crock pot all day. The perfect appetizer or game time snack!

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Crispy Gnocchi with Roasted Butternut Squash and Caramelized Onions

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Have you ever pan fried gnocchi so they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside? It’s my favorite way to eat gnocchi! I’ve been making gnocchi this way for a years – I posted a recipe for crispy gnocchi with pesto, roasted tomatoes, and goat cheese back in 2017, which I still love.

I have to say, there’s something about the combination in this recipe that I love. Cozy yet sophisticated, this is a dish I would be happy to get out at a restaurant. So bring the restaurant to your kitchen tonight. Pour a glass of wine, turn on some of your favorite music, and make this for dinner!

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