Ep 5. Best 16-Minute Meals: Italian

In season 30 episode 5 of The Pioneer Woman, titled "Best 16-Minute Meals: Italian," host Ree Drummond shares some of her favorite Italian-inspired dishes that can be made in just 16 minutes.

First up is a simple but delicious Pasta with Pancetta and Leeks. Ree starts by cooking pancetta in a hot pan until it's crispy, then adds sliced leeks and garlic and cooks until they're tender. She adds chicken broth and heavy cream to make a simple sauce and tosses the cooked pasta with the mixture. The dish is finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

Next, Ree makes a Creamy Tomato Soup with Parmesan Croutons. She starts by sautéing diced onions and garlic in a pot, then adds canned tomatoes and chicken broth and lets the mixture simmer for a few minutes. She purees the mixture until smooth and adds heavy cream for richness. Ree then makes Parmesan croutons by tossing cubed bread with melted butter, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese and baking until crispy. The croutons are served on top of the soup, which is garnished with more Parmesan cheese.

For a hearty main dish, Ree makes Italian Sloppy Joes. She starts by browning ground beef and Italian sausage in a hot pan, then adds diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the mixture. Ree stirs in a can of tomato soup and a can of diced tomatoes, along with Italian seasoning and Worcestershire sauce for flavor. The mixture simmers for a few minutes until it's thick and flavorful. Ree serves the Italian Sloppy Joes on brioche buns with shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Finally, Ree makes a simple but flavorful Italian Salad. She starts by tossing mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and sliced red onion. Ree makes a simple vinaigrette by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and Italian seasoning. The dressing is drizzled over the salad and the dish is finished with shaved Parmesan cheese.

Throughout the episode, Ree shares tips and tricks for making these delicious Italian-inspired meals quickly and easily. She also shares personal stories and anecdotes about her life on the ranch and her family. Viewers are sure to be inspired to try these tasty and simple recipes in their own kitchens.