Okay, so I touched on this topic the other day, when I shared that I use Stagg Chili in a pinch when time gets away from us and I want dinner to still fill the bill.
And look like I made an effort.
I have a list of items I consider staples that have that instant yum factor and that look like I slaved over a hot stove or oven for a while.
Besides the Stagg Chili (all you need to add are the toppings of cheese, onions and sour cream and you're good to go.) a close second for Autumn is chowder, or soups. All the deli counters in the Grocery stores have chowders and soups, and the ones in the pint and quart tubs are good for about two months after purchase. (How great is that?!) Boxed soups,like Campbell's or Trader Joe's own brand(Tomato, Butternut Squash, Pumpkin come to mind.) are perfect served in a hollowed out bread bowl or, served piping hot out of the ol' microwave adn topped with sweet little star shaped crutons you make yourself from the heels of leftover bread.
One more favorite speedy-and-fabulous item is Krusteaz Brand Crumb Cake. I love to keep these on hand to serve up for company. (See the sticker on the box? They were $1.94 at Walmart and by buying two, you got $1.50 off...that's about 80% off the second one. I bought four and will save the extra coupons for the next time I buy them.)
Anyway.
Not only is this super cheap, super easy, and super yummy, it makes your home smell like heaven while it's baking. I surprised my Rock n' Roll Buddy yesterday when I woke up early and made one for breakfast.
Mmmm Perfect with a big glass of cold milk while watching the football pre-game show.