A brand new cookbook inspired by America’s most beautiful places, sweet cornbread blueberry muffins, and clever weeknight cooking hacks. Melissa Knific is here with fresh kitchen inspiration you’ll want to try right away.

Melissa is a food editor and recipe developer with two decades of experience shaping some of the country’s most beloved food brands. In this episode, she shares quick, practical strategies to make weeknight cooking smoother and more enjoyable. From smart prep moves to simple flavor boosts, these are real-life hacks that work.

She walks us through her Blueberry Corn Muffins, a tender and lightly sweet recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, a lunchbox treat, or a simple dessert. And we chat about her upcoming National Geographic’s National Parks Cookbook, which she co-authored with Nina Elder, bringing the flavors of the parks to your own kitchen.

Also in this episode, I give a gentle early reminder that holiday planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you want a calmer Thanksgiving and holiday season, the key is to start planning for that calm now.

Melissa's upcoming cookbook (available for pre-order): National Geographic National Parks Cookbook: Dishes Inspired by America's Great Outdoors (#ad)
Melissa's website
Melissa's Blueberry Corn Muffins
Instagram: @melissaknific
Melissa is a Brand Ambassador for Challenge Butter Cubes. Get a coupon for the cubes here.

Christine's Links:
Cooking Challenge and Amazon $50 Gift Card Giveaway
Pasta e Fagioli for Two
Classic Pork and Beef Meatloaf
Panko Fried Chicken
Buttered Egg Noodles Recipe
Quick Pickles
Most Flavorful Turkey Brine Recipe
Roasted Turkey In Parts
Roasted Boneless Turkey Breast
Turkey Gravy

Email Me! [email protected]
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Join the ROTD Facebook Group, TikTok, or Instagram
Websites: CookTheStory.com and TheCookful.com
Christine's Newsletter
The All New Chicken Cookbook (#ad)