As family gatherings go, nothing beats a hearty meal shared with loved ones. For many Mormons, food plays a central role in these celebrations – and for good reason! There’s something special about gathering around the table to share a delicious meal, isn’t there? Whether you’re planning a funeral potluck or just want some inspiration for your next family dinner, we’ve got you covered with 18 mouthwatering Mormon recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From comfort foods like Pioneer Stew and Honey Wheat Bread, to sweet treats like Apple Crisp and Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, we’re sharing our favorite recipes to make your next gathering a hit.
Read on for our top picks, including Funeral Potatoes, Green Jell-O Salad, Dutch Oven Chicken, and many more!
Funeral Potatoes
A comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, Funeral Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying casserole that’s sure to be a hit. This recipe is a classic take on the traditional dish, with a simple and straightforward preparation process.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package frozen hash browns, thawed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine hash browns, cheddar cheese, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined, taking care not to overmix.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Jell-O Salad
This refreshing salad is a staple at many gatherings, combining the sweetness of Green Jell-O with the tanginess of fruit and whipped cream. With its vibrant green color and creamy texture, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened Green Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Green Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until completely dissolved.
3. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
4. Whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold whipped cream into the cooled Jell-O mixture.
6. Stir in pineapple, strawberries, and nuts (if using).
7. Chill in refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours or overnight
Honey Wheat Bread
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf with a hint of sweetness from pure honey, perfect for sandwiches or toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by whisking in warm water. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
3. Add honey and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Navajo Tacos
Navajo Tacos, also known as “Frybread Tacos,” are a beloved Native American dish that combines the comforting taste of frybread with the excitement of traditional taco fillings. This recipe is a simple and delicious adaptation of this popular treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup water
– Taco filling ingredients (ground beef, shredded chicken, or refried beans)
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any other taco toppings you like
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add oil and water to form a thick dough.
3. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Fry in hot oil (350°F) for 30 seconds on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and fill with your favorite taco fixings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Dutch Oven Chicken
Moist and flavorful chicken dish cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, potatoes)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil and sauté chopped onion until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
7. Cover Dutch oven with lid and transfer to preheated oven at 325°F (165°C).
8. Cook for 30-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Root Beer
Savor the classic taste of homemade root beer with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic brewing, you’ll be enjoying your own unique flavor in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon wintergreen extract
– 1/2 teaspoon sassafras root bark (or substitute with 1/4 teaspoon of sarsaparilla extract)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Carbonated water, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the water and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
2. Add granulated sugar, ginger, cloves, wintergreen extract, and sassafras root bark (or sarsaparilla extract). Stir well to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher or jug. Discard solids.
5. Add baking soda and stir until dissolved.
6. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
7. Just before serving, add carbonated water to taste.
Cooking Time: None
Pioneer Stew
This classic recipe is a staple of American comfort food, perfect for a cold winter’s night or a quick weeknight dinner. With its rich broth, tender beef, and vegetables, Pioneer Stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, potatoes, peas and carrots, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and thyme. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Lion House Rolls
These classic Lion House rolls are a staple of Utah’s cultural heritage. Soft, fluffy, and lightly sweetened, they’re perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing with warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add yeast mixture to dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead dough on floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into rolls.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
This classic recipe combines tender meatballs with a tangy sweet and sour sauce, perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course. With its balanced flavor and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a separate pan, combine sweet and sour sauce and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Ham with Pineapple Glaze
Transform your ham into a show-stopping centerpiece with this easy-to-make glaze featuring sweet pineapple and tangy brown sugar. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions!
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh pineapple wedges and cherry halves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan or large baking dish, scoring the surface in a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Brush the pineapple glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover every surface.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and cherry halves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Chocolate Zucchini Cake
This recipe combines the best of both worlds – the natural sweetness of zucchini and the richness of chocolate. The result is a deliciously moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium-sized)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cocoa powder and whisk until well combined.
4. Beat in butter and eggs until smooth.
5. Stir in zucchini, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips (if using).
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cornbread with Honey Butter
Classic Cornbread with Honey Butter Recipe
Warm up your taste buds with this sweet and savory combination of moist cornbread paired with a rich honey butter spread. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey Butter (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
1. Mix softened butter with 2 tablespoons of honey until smooth.
2. Spread on warm cornbread and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Potato Casserole with Cheese
Transform your dinner routine with this comforting potato casserole packed with melted cheese and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, milk, and softened butter. Mix until potatoes are well coated.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Arrange half of the potato mixture in the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese mixture.
6. Repeat layers: add remaining potato mixture, then top with remaining cheese mixture.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Apple Crisp
A sweet and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This apple crisp recipe is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with oat mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Granola
Satisfy your snack cravings with a deliciously crunchy homemade granola that’s perfect for munching on the go or adding to your favorite yogurt or oatmeal. This easy recipe yields a flavorful and textured snack that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans)
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and sunflower seeds.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the granola is lightly toasted and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Warm up with the perfect blend of fall flavors in these soft-baked cookies, featuring roasted pumpkin and dark chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree and eggs.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and flour mixture until just combined.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
White Chili
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful white chili recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced green chilies
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the diced green chilies, chicken broth, heavy cream, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramel Popcorn Balls
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these chewy caramel popcorn balls, perfect for a snack or party treat. This easy-to-make recipe combines the classic combination of salty popcorn and sweet caramel.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 cups popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour caramel mixture over popcorn and stir until coated.
5. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet. Let cool and harden completely (about 30-40 minutes).
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour, including cooling time.
Summary
Get ready to fill your table with delicious eats at your next family gathering! This collection of 18 hearty Mormon recipes has got you covered. From classic comfort foods like Funeral Potatoes and Pioneer Stew, to sweet treats like Chocolate Zucchini Cake and Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making homemade granola or Dutch Oven Chicken, or impress with show-stopping dishes like Navajo Tacos and Baked Ham with Pineapple Glaze. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need some inspiration for a cozy night in, these recipes are sure to please.