Day 1: Just a thought in My Mind

Last night, there I stood in the kitchen, trying to figure out what I was going to cook for the kids and the man when it hit me. Who needs recipes anyway? Then I started thinking about the countless hours spent browsing Pinterest, and the countless recipes I've pinned.....all doing me no good as I stand in the kitchen searching the cabinets and the fridge. Ground beef I defrosted...CHECK. Ricotta that expires tomorrow....CHECK. Your first thought is probably the same as mine...LASAGNA. Lasagna Noodle....NEGATIVE. Hmm...Do I make spaghetti and toss the ricotta, or do I keep pondering? Then I hear a wise little voice say "Mommy I want Rabbioli". ::thinks about it::: Frozen cheese ravioli......CHECK! That's it! I'll make a lasagna with frozen ravioli instead of lasagna noodles! The little guy is brilliant I tell ya. Off I go with all of the ingredients. "Who needs a recipe anyway?" I think to myself. Ok. Brown the ground beef with some garlic powder and onion powder. Add in a packet of Zesty Spaghetti sauce mix, Italian Seasoning, and a can of tomatoe puree. Hey this is easier than I thought! Mix together ricotta, garlic powder, onion powder, cream cheese, a few wedges of laughing cow cheese, parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, and some garlic salt. Pull out the pan, turn on the oven.... wait. I need something to go on the bottom so that the ravioli doesnt stick to the pan. (Man walks in and asks what I'm making and replies "ohhh...kay").. I've got it...1 small can of tomato paste, italian seasonings, garlic, onion powder, and water. Dilute it down and pour it in the pan....CHECK. Layer frozen ravioli....CHECK. Slather that yummy Ricotta goodness.....CHECK. Another layer of ravioli.....half check. I kinda ran out toward the end, so I spaced them. I thought I had 2 bags, but I only had one. Meat/Tomato mixture......CHECK. Italian Cheese and Cheddar Cheese on top....SUPER CHECK (If you know me, you know I love cheese). Into the oven it goes. 15 "Mommy is dinner ready?" 's later, the cheese is golden brown on top and the house is filled with that Italian garlicky smell.

The Verdict: It's a huge hit! Everyone loved it. I'll definitely be adding it into rotation.

If you dont like my ingredients, you can always use your own. throw in whatever you want..onions, peppers, mushrooms. I like things simple....and easy.