5 Minute Fudge

2 cups granulated sugar

2/3 cup evaporated milk

½ cup butter

12 large marshmallows (fresh, cut into 4^th’s)

Pinch of salt

1 cup (6-oz.) semisweet chocolate chips (I used milk chocolate)

1 cup chopped pecans

1 tsp. vanilla

Before you start, line an 8 or 9-inch pan with foil, leave an overhang on 2 sides for “handles” to lift out. Lightly grease foil. Halve the chocolate chips and pecans measured out in measuring cups.

Combine the first 5 ingredients in a large heavy saucepan. Over medium heat, cook, stirring constantly (I use a large wooden spoon), until mixture comes to a rolling boil.

Boil for 5 minutes (I set my timer), stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

Add the chocolate chips to the marshmallow mixture, stirring constantly, until the chocolate chips melt. Add pecans and vanilla, stirring well. Spread evenly in the buttered pan. Cool until set. Then lift out and cut into small squares, it’s very rich!!

Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole

A wonderful breakfast after opening presents. Serve with a big bowl of fresh cut-up fruit.

1 lb. roll Jimmy Dean regular pork sausage

½ cup finely chopped onions

6 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup Bisquick

2 cups whole milk

1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar Cheese (4-oz.)

¼ tsp. oregano

1 tsp. salt

¼ tsp. black pepper

Additional shredded cheese for top (just a little)

Crumble the sausage in a medium size frying pan and brown, along with the chopped onions. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, Bisquick, milk, cheese, and seasonings. Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and sprinkle a little cheese on top, for looks. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Serves 8

Note: If you really want to go “all-out”, add Hot Buttered Grits and Sour Cream Biscuits  (archives: Jan. 2011)