We finally have a bit of a break in the heat wave, but not enough to break out the gumbo pot. Although I think my first cool weather cook will be red beans and rice; it's been too long since I've had a bite.

For the recipes this week, I've got weekend gatherings for football games on my mind. First up is an easy appetizer that can be assembled in advance then grilled at the last minute so the bacon is crisp and sizzling and the cheese is melty. Next up, that guilty pleasure called Frito Pie. Keep the chili in a crock pot, have all the condiments on hand, and have guests assemble as desired. And finally, excellent pork carnitas that can be used to make sandwiches, fold into warm tortillas for tacos, or, as pictured, as nachos with all the trimmings.

Enjoy the recipes, stay cool, safe, and healthy, and, as always, let me know what's on your mind. 

Best regards,

Susan Ford, Publisher and Editorial Director

Louisiana Kitchen & Culture

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Cheesy Bacon Shrimp

This is an easy appetizer that can be prepared in advance up to the point of grilling. Partially cooking the bacon before wrapping the shrimp ensures that it'll get crisp and the shrimp won't over-cook.

Frito Pie

This is a great dish to have on hand for Game Day. Keep the chili warm in a crock pot, and have guests assemble bowls as they get hungry.

Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

This is delicious, particularly when used to build a platter of nachos as pictured. Bonus: Pork is probably the most affordable cut of meat at the meat counter these days. Leftover pork will freeze beautifully.