A Jersey Girl’s Clam Chowder That Kicks A**

Let’s be honest—some clam chowders are thin, watery, and kind of sad. But not this one. This Jersey Girl’s Clam Chowder is rich, creamy, bacon-loaded, and unapologetically bold—just like me. Born and raised in the Northeast, moved down the Shore, and now cooking in the Low Country, I’ve had a lot of chowder in my time. And after years…

Pasta e Fagioli — A Jersey Girl’s Soul-Warming Favorite ✨

By Jacqueline Horuzy-Maffucci • JacqFromJersey.com Growing up in North Jersey in an Italian-American household, pasta e fagioli wasn’t just a dish — it was a whole identity. It was cheap, filling, cozy, and on the table at least once a week. And let me be honest with you: as a kid, I hated beans. Absolutely…

🔥 Shrimp Beeps – Bringing Belmont Tavern to the Lowcountry

When you’re living in the Lowcountry and you start craving some good old Jersey Italian, you’ve got two options: get on a plane… or make it yourself. So that’s exactly what I did. I was missing the Belmont Tavern in Belleville, New Jersey — that classic, no-frills spot where the Shrimp Beeps are legendary. Big,…

Jacq’s Lowcountry Chicken Bog

Chicken bog? What you talking about, Willis? Since moving to the Lowcountry, I’ve completely embraced the culture and the cuisine. While I love adding my Jersey twist to things, there are some dishes that are so rooted in tradition that they’re perfect just the way they are. Lowcountry Chicken Bog is one of those. For…

Creamy Cabbage & Orzo Stew + A Pizza Appy

Fall is in the air—or at least it should be! Even though it was 88° here in South Carolina, I couldn’t resist making a cozy, hearty bowl of Creamy Cabbage & Orzo Stew. This recipe is inspired by Must Love Garlic’s Creamy Cabbage & Orzo Stew 🌿. I made a few little tweaks to fit…

Chicken & Eggplant Milanese with Warm Shiitake Mushroom Salad

The ultimate weekend comfort dish that’s worth every minute If you’re looking for a show-stopping meal that combines crispy breaded chicken, tender eggplant, savory mushrooms, creamy ricotta, and a touch of fresh greens, my Chicken & Eggplant Milanese with Warm Shiitake Mushroom Salad is a winner. Yes — it takes a bit of time to…

Pasta al Pomodoro… with a Kick

By Jacq from Jersey | Comfort Food with a Spicy Twist There’s nothing like a bowl of pasta al Pomodoro — simple, honest, and full of flavor. But you know me… I always like to turn up the heat just a bit. This version has all the love and comfort of the traditional dish, but…

Peppers and Eggs: The Breakfast of My Childhood Dreams

There’s something magical about food that takes you back—back to a specific kitchen, a familiar voice, or even just a time when things were simpler. For me, one of those dishes is Peppers and Eggs. Growing up in an Italian-American family, this humble but soul-satisfying meal was a staple. My mother would make it for…