The goal of most moms: to make a tasty, easy dinner that everyone in the family enjoys.

The reality of most moms: chaos that might result in a dinner that half the family will eat.

Sadly, instead of trying meals that our family might really enjoy (and facilitating an attitude where meals are important), we opt for what is easy - dinner in a box. I'm not saying dinner in a box is a bad thing, BUT I don't want you to settle for that when you have the desire to do more. Most of the time, making dinner at home is just as easy as the convenience meals, and they taste waaaay better and are so much better for you. Plus, you get the bonus of having more steps then "dump and stir" where you spouse and kids can get in on the fun. Because cooking is fun. Quit rolling your eyes at me! It's true!

I've taught this recipe to a group of 10-15 year olds and a group of high school girls. It was a huge hit, and they have made it for their families numerous times. If your sixth grader can cook this, you can, too. And it's been kid approved. Bonus points.

Hearty Beef and Noodles

• 1 lb. ground beef (or pork, chicken, or turkey)
• 3-4 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 medium red or white onion, diced
• 1/2 bag of egg noodles
• 2 cups of chicken stock
• 1/3 cup of heavy cream (or half and half or evaporated milk if you're worried about the fat)
• 2 tbsp. of fresh herbs (best combo is rosemary and sage)
• salt and black pepper

1. Bring a pot of water to boil, and cook the egg noodles (along with a couple good pinches of salt) for as long as the package calls for while you work on the other stuff. Depending on the size of the noodle (thin, wide, extra wide), the cooking time will be different.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the hamburger. Be sure to season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the carrots and onions, more salt and pepper, stir, and cook 5-7 minutes until the veggies are soft.
4. Add the chicken stock, and bring to a boil. Let it thicken up a little.
5. Add the cream, bring to a boil, and let it thicken more.
6. Add the herbs, salt, lots of black pepper, and the cooked and drained noodles.
7. Stir it all together, taste to make sure it's seasoned well, and spoon the creamy goodness into a few bowls. Soo good and perfect on a fall night.

Reminder: kids have made this on their own. You have no excuse, so take time in the kitchen as an opportunity to stretch yourself and enjoy something you didn't think you could.