soI Have 7 Dinner Guests Tonight!

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread revolves around a participant preparing for a dinner with seven guests and seeking input on meal ideas. Various cooking methods and recipes are shared, reflecting personal experiences and preferences in meal preparation.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses excitement about hosting dinner guests but feels uncertain about what to prepare for a larger group.
  • Another participant shares a simple crock pot roast recipe, suggesting it as an option for the dinner.
  • Several participants suggest various meal ideas, including 30-minute chicken, homemade spaghetti sauce, and a Mexican theme with tacos and enchiladas.
  • One participant mentions using the Deep Covered Baker for cooking roasts and provides tips on preparation.
  • Another participant shares their experience of making chicken taco filling in a crockpot with enchilada sauce.
  • One participant describes their dinner outcome, which included chicken enchiladas and tacos, and notes that guests enjoyed the meal.
  • Several participants discuss the use of microwaving chicken, with differing opinions on its effectiveness.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best cooking methods for chicken, with some participants preferring traditional methods over microwaving. There is no clear consensus on a single meal idea, as multiple suggestions are offered.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a range of personal cooking experiences and preferences among participants, highlighting the diversity of meal preparation approaches in a home setting.

Who May Find This Useful

Participants in the consultant community looking for meal ideas and cooking tips for hosting larger gatherings may find this thread informative.

speedychef
speedychef
Messages
1,035
So Bry's fam is in town and he invited them over for dinner, which is SO fine with me, I LOVE to have dinner guests, but I HAVE NO IDEA what to make for a crowd, it's usually dinner for 2 or 4 or else Thanksgiving (indefinite!) Every idea I put up, he isn't thrilled with, but he's not helping! I LOVE roast beef and haven't had it in FOREVER (he despises roasts :eek: ) so I'm thinking I might do that, but I :hanging my head in shame: have never cooked a roast! So I was thinking roast beef & Mashed potatoes & maybe broccoli casserole? Any suggestions? I'd go PC, but I can't make a decision to save my life!
 
I have a simple crock pot roast recipe.

1 4 lb chuck roast
1 envelope dry soup mix
1 cup water

Cook on low 8-10 hours. So you better put it in NOW!!!

You can add veggies & potatoes to the crock if you want, or just make them on the side.
 
Why not the 30 minute chicken and a trifle for dessert? Might as well wow them with PC and possibly get a booking!
 
homemade spaghetti sauce simmering all day, salad (served in SA dots bowl if you have it) and bread with dipping oil
maybe a tomato, fresh mozzarella and basil salad for an appetizer
 
Teresa Lynn said:
homemade spaghetti sauce simmering all day, salad (served in SA dots bowl if you have it) and bread with dipping oil
maybe a tomato, fresh mozzarella and basil salad for an appetizer
Click to expand...

Add some toasted pita bread and you can make the Mini Caprese Sandwiches for an appitizer.
 
Roasts cook really well in the Deep Covered Baker. Just make sure you test the temperature to see if it's done! And get the right kind of roast... you want one that's an oven roast, not a pot roast. Unless, of course, you DO want a pot roast, in which case you should start it off by searing it in the large stockpot, covering it with liquid (water, red wine, juice, cola, whatever) throwing in some onions or onion soup mix, then finishing it off in the oven on about 325-350 for a couple hours. Pot roast is easier to do, because you can't really overcook it unless you REALLY try. :D
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
You guys are awesome! I ended up going with a Mexican theme. I'm going to have chips and salsa and I'm going to do beef tacos and chicken enchiladas. So here's the new question. I was going to make 30 minute chicken for the enchiladas, but they had no fryers at the store! So I bought boneless skinless breasts/thighs...can I still nuke em in the DCB?
 
Yep! They'll work fine. They will probably take less than 30 minutes, since they're smaller pieces, so check the internal temp after about 20 minutes.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
Just throw em in there, then? Maybe a little SW seasoning...maybe not...I'm going to bring some of it for my aloha pizza tomorrow...
 
You got it, just throw 'em in the bottom of the baker. Season as desired.
 
speedychef said:
You guys are awesome! I ended up going with a Mexican theme. I'm going to have chips and salsa and I'm going to do beef tacos and chicken enchiladas. So here's the new question. I was going to make 30 minute chicken for the enchiladas, but they had no fryers at the store! So I bought boneless skinless breasts/thighs...can I still nuke em in the DCB?
Click to expand...

You know they have the pre-seasoned chicken in the freezer section. That's the route I would go. I know I wouldn't get any Martha Stewart points, but it helps save stress and time. But since you now have purchased the other meat...It doesn't take that long to brong boneless skinless chicken in a skillet. That is what I would do, but I am a crazy person because I think I am the only person on here that doesn't nuke meat. I just cannot cook in the microwave.
 
I never cook meat in the microwave either.

You could boil it, saute it, or bake it.
 
When I want chicken taco filling, I put boneless, skinless breasts in the crockpot; add a can of enchilada sauce and about a cup of picante sauce and let it cook for about 4 hrs. on hi. Then I shred the chicken with 2 forks while it's still in the CP, and let it cook about 30 more minutes. Easy and tastes YUMMY!

Jules
 
So how was dinner tonight Kim? What did you end up doing?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #15
I ended up making chicken enchiladas with chicken that I nuked in the dcb for 20 minutes, but I think a little less would have sufficed. And tacos and refried beans (made em myself...right from the can!) And dessert was ice cream sandwiches!! I don't use that ice cream sandwich maker NEARLY enough! They acted like it was gourmet! It cracked me up. Bryan about had a fit when he found out I was nuking the chicken but I didn't care because he wasn't eating them anyhow! And everyone said they were GOOD! SO THERE! Thbbt!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #16
Oh yeah and I served everything in SA! And there was salsa and (PC) guac. Then I was going to make fantastic foccacia for an appetizer but I never got around to it, but I had the dough made...when everyone left, a friend called to come play cards and have a few drinks, so I made it and brought it over there! Booking! YAY!
 
Sounds great! Hey, I nuke whenever I can!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some quick and easy recipes I can prepare for 7 dinner guests?

Consider making a one-pot meal like a hearty pasta dish or a casserole that can be prepared in advance. You can also opt for a buffet-style dinner with a variety of appetizers, salads, and a main dish, allowing guests to serve themselves. Dishes like tacos, sliders, or a charcuterie board can be fun and interactive.

How can I efficiently set the table for 7 guests?

To set the table efficiently, use a simple layout with plates, utensils, and glasses for each guest. Consider using disposable or reusable dinnerware to save time on cleanup. You can also create a centerpiece that doesn’t take up too much space, allowing for easy conversation across the table.

What drinks should I serve to complement the dinner?

Offer a selection of drinks to cater to different preferences. A signature cocktail, a couple of wine options (red and white), and non-alcoholic beverages like sparkling water or iced tea can be great choices. Make sure to have enough ice and garnishes ready for cocktails.

How can I keep the dinner conversation flowing?

To encourage conversation, consider preparing some icebreaker questions or topics in advance. You can also arrange seating to mix guests who may not know each other well. Engaging everyone in a fun activity, like sharing their favorite cooking tips or stories, can also help keep the conversation lively.

What should I do if I run out of food during the dinner?

If you find yourself running low on food, don’t panic! You can quickly prepare simple snacks like chips and dip or a salad to fill in. Alternatively, you could ask guests to share their favorite dish or dessert, which can turn into a fun and collaborative experience. Always have a backup plan, like ordering pizza or takeout, just in case.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

What's for Dinner on Thanksgiving Eve?
  • pamperedbybarbara
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
4
Views
1K
Staci
How Long and What Seasonings for a Roast
  • kcjodih
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
12
Views
3K
Kitchen Diva
What Should I Cook for a Multi-Generational Family Dinner?
  • kcjodih
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
18
Views
2K
CookingwithMary
What's for Dinner..monday,Nov.23
  • pamperedbybarbara
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
7
Views
1K
leslieprichett
What's for Dinner...thursday, July 22
  • pamperedbybarbara
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
6
Views
2K
deanna_g
What's in My Freezer: How to Cook and Enjoy a Variety of Meat Cuts
  • crystalscookingnow
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
8
Views
1K
mrssyvo
What's for Dinner Tonight? Need Ideas for Leftover Chicken
  • chefann
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
19
Views
2K
Kitchen Diva
How to Make Bbq Beef Sandwich in Dcb/Microwave??
  • esavvymom
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
15
Views
3K
ChefPaulaB
What's for Dinner...wednesday, May 19
  • pamperedbybarbara
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
2
Views
1K
Admin Greg
Side Dish for Dh to Take to Office Holiday Party
  • etteluap70PC
    • Recipes and Tips
Replies
5
Views
3K
angel7581
Back
Top