I’m a double-up kind of girl … are you? Especially when it comes to entertaining and cooking for my family.

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Since I’m already putting work and time into my cooking, I like to double the recipe and get as many meals as I can from my efforts. And my family thanks me and it helps for entertaining on the fly when guests unexpectedly stop by!

I told my family, “Get ready for something really good for dinner tonight. We’re trying another Rachael Ray recipe!” My journey with the FreshOver project has been fantastic as I’ve tried many recipes on family and friends. I’ve had fun and they’ve benefited. :) My family’s favorite recipe was Rachael Ray’s Braised Pork Tacos, because we got so many meals from it “and we’re a “taco family.”

The table was set.

I cooked the meal in no time.

And I tucked one little pan’s worth of food away in a Ziploc VersaGlass Container, which is glass, has a sealable lid, and makes “fresh-overing” your meal easy, because all you do is refrigerate or freeze. When you’re ready to eat this meal again, just thaw, cook and serve all in the same container—saving time and cleanup! (Ziploc VersaGlass Containers are oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit without a lid, when used in accordance with the instructions).

I’ve also discovered that these new glass dishes are excellent for taking a meal to a loved one or a neighbor in need. It’s little work to cook extra and freeze, and then pull the container out the day of delivering the meal.

Today, I’m not only sharing a yummy FreshOver recipe, but I’m hosting a giveaway, thanks to Ziploc Brand and Rachael Ray. I also want to tell you about the sweepstakes hosted by Ziploc, which YOU CAN ENTER at Ziploc’s Facebook Page:

Ziploc Brand is hosting The Great American FreshOver Sweepstakes from March 5, 2012 through May 5, 2012. Fans can enter on the Ziploc Brand Facebook page by “liking” the page and offering a FreshOver food idea, in the form of a recipe or tip in text. During the sweepstakes, fans will be rewarded with access to exclusive Rachael Ray videos and tips, weekly prize drawings, coupons and one lucky grand prize winner will win a trip for two to experience the ultimate culinary experience in America’s food capital – New York City. Grand prize winners will stay in New York City for three nights and four days, can eat at the most sought after “fresh” restaurants and swap recipes with Rachael Ray. No purchase or payment of any kind is necessary to participate.

GIVEAWAY INFO::
The giveaway will comprise of 12 various Ziploc® Brand Products, Rachael Ray’s Look+Cook cookbook and cooking utensils. Approximate Retail Value of prize is $120.00 USD and will be given to one (1) selected winner.

ANSWER TO WIN:
You can enter the giveaway by sharing one comment about the best meal you’ve enjoyed in NYC when you’ve been there?

Did it contain fresh ingredients? Why you think NYC is a great place to visit?

OFFICAL RULES:
No purchase or payment post of any kind is necessary to enter or win. A purchase or, payment will not increase your chances of winning. Read all of the rules, HERE.

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Recipe: Rachael Ray’s Broccoli & Cauliflower Gratin Mac n’ Cheese {ReluctantEntertainer.com}

Summary: Recipe prepared and photo taken for: The Great American FreshOverâ„¢ Project Recipe Guide

Ingredients

  • Salt
  • 1 small head or bundle broccoli, trimmed into florets
  • 1 small head cauliflower or half a large head, trimmed and cut into florets
  • 1 pound whole-wheat macaroni or penne or other short cut pasta
  • 2 cups sour cream or reduced-fat sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped chives
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and grated or crushed into paste
  • A few drops hot sauce
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 1/2 cups grated extra-sharp Cheddar

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over medium heat. Salt the water and add the broccoli and cauliflower florets. Boil the vegetables for 5 minutes, then remove them with a strainer and drain. Add the pasta to the water, following package directions, but undercook by about 2 minutes and drain.
  2. Meanwhile, combine the sour cream in a large bowl along with the mustard, chives, garlic, hot sauce and salt and pepper, to taste. Add the pasta and cauliflower and 2/3 of the cheese. Stir to combine, then transfer it to a casserole or baking dish and cover with the remaining cheese. Cool and chill for a make-ahead meal.
  3. To heat and eat, put the casserole on baking sheet and bake it in the middle of a preheated 375 degree F oven until deeply golden and bubbly, about 40 to 45 minutes.
  4. TIP: Make a double batch of this Mac ‘n Cheese and refrigerate or freeze in the rectangle Ziploc VersaGlass Container.

Preparation time: 15 minute(s)

Cooking time: 45 minute(s)

Number of servings (yield): 4


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*I have partnered with Ziploc® and am being compensated for my posts. However, my opinions of the product are my own.