Presenting the Winners from Our Countertop Convenience Contest
Updated: Mar. 05, 2024
These home cooks are plugged into kitchen appliances. From pressure cookers to panini presses, the dishes they created are easy to meal-prep and convenient to eat. We can't get enough of these breakfasts, lunches, dinners and desserts.
Grand Prize: Pressure-Cooker Bo Ssam Sandwiches
Pressure-Cooker Recipe
Here’s an hour-and-a-half version of the legendary eight-plus-hour bo ssam lettuce wraps. The Korean-inspired barbecue sauce provides a savory backdrop for the bright, fresh flavors of cilantro and pickles. Don’t skip the broiling step! That’s where the pork fat and sugar transform the soft shreds into wonderful crispy bits. —Kelly Burnham, Palmdale, California
1st Place: Buffalo Chicken Crunch Wraps
Panini Press Recipe
My daughter-in-law loves Buffalo chicken, so I came up with this easy-to-make crunch wrap using all the same flavors and grilled it in a panini press. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a hot, crunchy pocket of spicy, cheesy chicken ready for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. The wraps are fantastic served with extra blue cheese dressing or sour cream for dipping. We also enjoy them served with fresh veggies, like shredded lettuce or sliced cucumbers. —Theresa Ravencraft, Marysville, Ohio
2nd Place: Pressure-Cooker Shrimp Risotto
Pressure-Cooker Recipe
Shrimp and risotto are two of my favorite dishes. But risotto takes time and attention when cooked on the stovetop. So I wanted to try making it in my pressure cooker since it’s such a timesaver. I think the flavor and texture of this speedy version is similar to the traditional method. —Donna-Marie Ryan, Topsfield, MA
3rd Place: Coconut-Almond Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream
Ice Cream Maker Recipe
This ice cream tastes like Almond Joy candy bars. Using a toaster oven and countertop ice cream maker couldn’t make this recipe any easier. —Linda Kirkpatrick, Westminster, Maryland
Runner-Up: Bakewell Pie Tarts
Air-Fryer Recipe
With my busy family of five, I’m always burning things in the oven because I get pulled into other tasks. But the air fryer, with its time-controlled powers, has been a godsend. Now when the inevitable family emergency pops up, I don’t have to worry about setting off the smoke alarm! My British heritage means I grew up on tea and Bakewell tarts. This easy rendition uses similar components of the iconic tart, but it’s easier for bustling families to make. You can use any type of jam you want! —Kristin Bowers, Gilbert, Arizona
Runner-Up: Louisiana Meat Pies
Air-Fryer Recipe
I always found the food of Louisiana so full of flavor. These meat pies are my version of the region’s cuisine. I promise you won’t just have one! —Kristyne McDougle Walter, Lorain, Ohio
Runner-Up: Low-Carb Cheesy Cheeseburgers
Waffle-Maker Recipe
I have turned my life around with a low-carb keto diet. This recipe is a wonderful new way to make burgers with all the same favorite flavors that I’m used to. Since the meat and toppings can be changed, the possibilities are endless and I never get tired of making these burgers. —Fay Moreland, Wichita Falls, Texas
Runner-Up: Pressure-Cooker Beef and Farro Stew
Pressure-Cooker Recipe
This pressure-cooked beef stew is loaded with tender beef and lots of veggies. It is comforting and filling, and is sure to become a family favorite. —Kaylen Friederich, Reno, Nevada
Runner-Up: Slow-Cooked Apple Cinnamon French Toast
Slow-Cooker Recipe
My husband works nights. I often put this casserole together when I’m making dinner and refrigerate it. I’ll put the crock into the cooker around midnight and set the timer, so his breakfast is ready when he gets home. Leftovers reheat well in the microwave. —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky
Runner-Up: Slow-Cooker Spanakopita Frittata Sandwiches
Slow-Cooker Recipe
Years ago my husband and I took a cruise through the Greek islands for our 10th anniversary. Delicious and nutritious foods like this were served on our ship all day, every day. I enjoyed re-creating the flavors in this brunch sandwich. —Laura Wilhelm, West Hollywood, California
Runner-Up: Spicy Fresh Tomato and Eggplant Sauce
Pressure-Cooker Recipe
My garden is overflowing with fresh tomatoes and eggplant toward the end of summer, so I was thinking of ways that those ingredients were used in the old country. A hearty gravy (what it’s called in Sicily) for pasta is just the ticket. You can add meat or sprinkle it with Parmesan if you’d like, but it is good on its own. It also freezes well. —Teri Schloessmann, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Air-Fryer Lemon Oreos
Air-Fryer Recipe
I love to get fried Oreos at the county fair every summer. Since this version cooks up quickly in the air fryer, I can enjoy my favorite summer treat all year round! Lemon zest and lemon yogurt add a burst of flavor to the batter, and a dusting of powdered sugar makes for a pretty presentation. —Jennifer Gilbert, Brighton, Michigan
Originally Published: March 05, 2024
