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When Wednesday rolls around, it’s the perfect time to mix comfort with simplicity in your dinner plans. Here are three American classic recipes that are easy to whip up and sure to delight your family. These dishes not only fill the belly but also warm the heart, perfectly complementing any home decor with their homely charm.

1. BBQ Chicken & Cornbread Pie

This dish is a fun twist on traditional BBQ chicken, combining it with a cornbread base for a hearty, all-in-one meal that's full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1 box cornbread mix (prepare as directed on the box)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce.
2. Spread the chicken mixture in the bottom of a greased baking dish. Top with corn and bell peppers.
3. Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions, then spoon the batter over the chicken and vegetables, spreading gently to cover.
4. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cornbread is cooked through and golden.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Pair this dish with a simple green salad and some iced tea for a truly Southern dining experience that’s both easy and impressive.

2. Classic Meatloaf with Glazed Carrots

A timeless American favorite, this meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and served with a side of sweet glazed carrots.

Ingredients:

• For the Meatloaf:
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp mustard
• For the Glazed Carrots:
  • 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. For the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
3. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread this glaze over the meatloaf.
4. Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F).
5. For the Glazed Carrots: While the meatloaf is baking, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add carrots, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until carrots are tender and glazed, about 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve the meatloaf sliced, with the glazed carrots on the side.

This meal is perfect for a cozy night in, bringing a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your mid-week.

3. Baked Ziti with Spinach and Italian Sausage

This comforting pasta bake is easy, cheesy, and full of flavor — a guaranteed hit for any pasta lover.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti or penne pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Add onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, tomato and sausage sauce, ricotta cheese, and spinach.
5. Pour half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve this hearty pasta dish with a crisp Caesar salad and some garlic bread for a satisfying, family-friendly meal.