Satisfy Your Queso Craving With This Crispy Jalapeño Spinach Queso Recipe

Lindsay Ostrom
Nov 08, 2017

Lindsay Ostrom here, stopping by from Pinch of Yum to share a seriously tasty recipe. Dippity doo dah — it’s spinach queso, friends! Spi-nach que-soooo! This dip is topped with cilantro and lots of French’s Crispy Jalapeños and CAN WE TALK ABOUT THESE FOR A SECOND. You know the crispy onions that are essential for your Thanksgiving green bean casserole? And you know how you then use your leftover crispy onions in your salads and on your burgers and in your tacos for kind of a long time after Thanksgiving and you’re like, these are actually really good on everything?

This is kind of like that, except now it’s game on, because this just became a jalapeño party.

I swear these crispy jalapeños were designed specifically for POY-style food. They belong on every bowl of pumpkin walnut chili, every carnitas taco, and every autumn glow salad that a person could ever make. Which also makes them a really good fit for Friendsgiving. Tell me if I’m wrong, but in my world, Friendsgiving is not just Thanksgiving with friends — it is Thanksgiving modernized. It’s not for the normal Thanksgiving recipes (hello, Grandma’s gelatin salad, which is a family requisite, and DON’T EVEN TOUCH IT), but it IS time for the gather-everyone-together recipes that have a little extra zip, kick, or heat to them. Extra. Next Level. That kind of thing.

For example, this spinach-y, queso-y dip with crispy fried jalapeños. It is begging you to have friends over and be together, thankful, and non-traditional. Friendsgiving has never looked better.

I mean, a little fiery crunch to go with my melted cheese? Twist my arm. I’m teaming up with French’s to give the lowdown on this delectable dip, AKA my new go-to entrée sidekick.

Ingredients:

For the spinach queso:

  • 2 jalapeños, ribs and seeds removed, minced
  • half an onion, minced
  • 2 Tablespoons butter
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 handfuls of fresh baby spinach
  • 2-3 Tablespoons flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 8 ounces shredded cheese (see notes below)

For the topping:

Instructions:

  1. Start your aromatics: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet. Add the jalapeños and onions and sauté for 5-10 minutes, until very soft and fragrant. Add the spinach and garlic and stir quickly until spinach is wilted.
  2. Make it creamy: Add flour and stir until everything is coated — about one minute. Add the milk slowly and whisk until a smooth mixture forms. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese.
  3. Topping and serving: Top with French’s Crispy Jalapeños, cilantro, and whatever else you want to make it fancy. Best served warm with tortilla chips for dipping! YUUUUUM.

And now, for some spinach queso making.

We start with the goods: jalapeños (fresh), onion, garlic, spinach, French’s Crispy Jalapeños (crispy, made from fresh – full circle).

Here is what the base of your queso is going to look like. The smells coming off of that picture are just… is this real life? Garlic, jalapeño, onion, butter, olive oil. What more could you even want? OH, OH, I KNOW! Melted cheese.

And then crispy jalapeños.

This dip was made to be shared. I first shared it with the team at the studio, which was normal for me, and then I shared a second “test batch” with just my husband, as in just the two of us and a full pan of hot queso, which was excessive and awesome of me.

But ideally, a normal person might bring this spinach queso to any of the following:

  • Friendsgiving
  • Actual Thanksgiving
  • Day after Thanksgiving
  • Girls’ Night
  • Guys’ Night
  • Yourself on the Couch, which is not sharing, but would still be very acceptable.

NOTES

  • Cheese: I used Chihuahua cheese — it required a special trip to a different grocery store, but I love this cheese for its smooth-melting texture in Mexican recipes. It is not going to be elastic and stretchy like Mozzarella, and in my opinion, that makes it a better choice here. Dipping is easier. Pepperjack, Monterey Jack, or any other smooth melting cheese should work too.
  • Thickness: If you want a thicker queso, use 3 Tablespoons flour. If you want a thinner queso, use just 2 Tablespoons. Adjust consistency by adding small amounts of milk once it all comes together.

Trying this recipe yourself? Share photos of the final product with us on Twitter by tagging #RealFlavorsHaveCrunch and @BritandCo!

Photography: Lindsay Ostrom / Pinch of Yum

Make These Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes As A Thanksgiving Appetizer (Or Side!)

Have you figured out your Thanksgiving menu yet? Whether you're serving up a turkey, vegan options, or all of the above, you probably want some super delicious sides and appetizers to complement your other Thanksgiving recipes! These bacon-wrapped sweet potatoes are so versatile, you can serve them before your meal, on the side, or even for breakfast on the morning of Thanksgiving Day. Delicious and Paleo-approved, they really have no downsides. Plus, bacon!

Get the recipe for bacon-wrapped sweet potatoes below!

Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes

Sarah Anderson

  • 3 medium sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
  • 20 slices of bacon
  • 1/4 teaspoon pink salt
  • Freshly ground pepper

Directions for Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes

Sarah Anderson

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Line a baking sheet with some parchment paper.
  3. Cut your sweet potatoes into thick-cut wedges or fry shapes.
  4. Wrap each sweet potato piece with a slice of bacon, slightly overlapping the bacon on itself as it goes around the sweet potato.
  5. Place the sweet potatoes in a single layer onto the baking sheet, leaving an inch or two in between each one. Do this in two batches, if needed. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top before baking.
  6. Bake the bacon-wrapped sweet potatoes for 35 minutes. The potatoes should be tender and the bacon should be crispy.
  7. Serve the wedges with your choice of ketchup, ranch, or aioli – or all of the above! Enjoy!

Want more Thanksgiving recipes and other meal ideas delivered right to your inbox? Sign up for our newsletter!

Recipe by Sarah Anderson.

This post has been updated.

thanksgiving recipesthanksgivingmeal planningfoodfall recipesrecipes

Michelle Yeoh Felt Like "A Failure" For Not Having Kids — And Then Won An Oscar

Oscar-winner, Michelle Yeoh just opened up to BBC Radio about her struggles with infertility amid her decades-long career. Fertility and motherhood are obviously complex, emotional topics — we've seen plenty of discourse play out in this space the last few months alone — so when Michelle described her inability to conceive as "a failure," our collective hearts broke for her.

Here's what the Wicked star had to say about why she felt like "a failure" — and the unexpected relationship that "blessed" her.

cdn.ex.co

On BBC Radio's Woman's Hourpodcast, Michelle shared her story of infertility — both how it hurt her, but also how she was able to come to terms with it over time. In discussing what she calls a "shattered mirror moment," Michelle explained that her lack of children wasn't for "lack of trying." She said that she loves children, babies, and even has six godchildren, but she simply wasn't able to bear a biological child.

"I believe that it's a woman's choice — it's your choice whether you want to have children, and shouldn't be imposed on you. Just because you're a woman, you should have a child — that should not be the case," she said. "But as a very personal thing, I wanted — I always wanted to have children."

She elaborated that in her first marriage with Sir Dickson Poon, it was a "very clear path about having children." When she couldn't conceive, she went to get fertility treatment "to aid in the process" — and she made it clear that the process was a very painful one for her. When describing her attempts at conception, she said, "And I think the worst moment to go through is every month you feel like such a failure."

"And then you go, why? And I think at some point you stop blaming yourself. I go, there are certain things in your body that doesn't function in a certain way. That's how it is," she continued. "You just have to let go and move on. And I think you come to a point where you have to stop blaming you."

While she may have practically moved on from her dream of carrying biological children — of that, she said, "I'm 62. Of course I'm not going to have a baby right now," — Michelle can't seem to help thinking of it still. She said, "Sometimes, honestly, I still think about it."

Getting to this place of peace and understanding for her fertility scenario came with a series of heartbreaks, though, as Michelle explained this likely ended her first marriage. Although she believed they loved each other, she knew in the next decade of the relationship, she ultimately couldn't give her ex-husband the family that he wanted. Now, she feels like it was "very brave" for the former couple "to admit" that they shouldn't "drag this out."

Thankfully, the end of her marriage didn't mar the love shared there — Michelle said she's actually godmother to Sir Dickson Poon's eldest child. And she even got remarried! Though her new husband, Jean Todt, proposed the very first month they were together, Michelle waited to marry until about 20 years later.

As mentioned before, Michelle is surrounded by plenty of beautiful children in her life — one of which is her granddaughter via her stepson, Nicholas Todt. In regards to that, Michelle noted, "Then you feel you're still very, very blessed because you do have a baby in your life.”

And as for having a little one in her life outside of children? Let's just say she has a golden boy of her own — and yes, I'm referring to the Oscar she won in 2023 for Everything Everywhere All at Once. Needless to say, Michelle is definitely not a failure. 🙌

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

celebritiesmotherhoodcelebritycelebrity news

Delight Your Thanksgiving Guests With This Bubbly Cranberry Cocktail

When it comes to Thanksgiving drinks, we're all about the festive flavors. This refreshing and delicious cranberry cocktail is one of our absolute favorites! Tieghan from Half Baked Harvest was kind enough to share this insanely yummy drink recipe with us. Take it away, Tieghan!

Get into the Thanksgiving spirit with these Spiced Cranberry Rosé Spritzers! Homemade spiced cranberry jam, woodsy rosemary, fruity rosé, sweet elderflower liquor, fresh citrus, and spicy ginger beer. Mix everything together to create a festive pitcher-style cocktail that's easy to create, refreshing, and delicious. Bonus: this drink can be made ahead of time for easy holiday entertaining, and the festive red color doubles as a gorgeous decor piece on any table!

Keep Reading For Our Delicious Bubbly Cranberry Cocktail

Half Baked Harvest

And just like that, I'm in full on holiday mode. Can't help it, this time of year makes me so happy! And with Thanksgiving less than two weeks away it's hard not to be excited. Anyone else feeling the same?

We've been having the coziest weather up here in the mountains. It's inspired me to create recipes that will to warm us up from the inside out. That's honestly one of the cheesiest things I'll say, but it's the truth. I know it's hard to imagine a drink warming you up, especially one that's served over ice, but the spices in this wine spritzer do just that.

Half Baked Harvest

The key to this fun drink is the cranberry jam-syrup. It's actually kind of a mix between a jam and syrup. It uses fresh fruit like a jam would, but it's consistency is much more syrup like. So, it's kind of a cross between the two. Whatever you'd like to call it, it's a delicious mix of sweet honey, fresh tart cranberries, rosemary, and warming cardamom. The honey balances out the tart cranberries, while the rosemary and cardamon add coziness and warmth. Perfect for a Thanksgiving spritzer!

To make the jam, just add all ingredients to a pot. Bring to a boil, boil a minute or two, and done. So simple.

Half Baked Harvest

Once the jam has cooled, add it to a pitcher along with a bottle of your favorite rosé, elderflower liquor (this is my favorite right now), cranberry or pomegranate juice, and a few dashes of orange bitters. Chill the mix, and then just before serving, add fresh citrus slices. I used blood oranges, but regular oranges or grapefruit would be great too. Top it all off with fizzy, spicy, ginger beer (another one of my favorites).

This cocktail is both refreshing and warming, perfect for a chilly November night, or a snow-filled Thanksgiving Day complete with cozy blankets, a roaring fire, and candles galore.

Ingredients for Spiced Cranberry Rosé Spritzers

Half Baked Harvest

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, plus more for serving
  • 1 tablespoon cardamon pods or 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) rosé wine
  • 4 ounces elderflower liquor
  • 1/3 cup cranberry or pomegranate juice
  • 2-3 dashes orange bitter
  • 2 blood oranges or regular oranges, sliced
  • 4-6 (12 ounce) ginger beers, to your taste

Directions for Spiced Cranberry Rosé Spritzers

Half Baked Harvest

  1. To make the cranberry syrup: In a medium pot, bring 1/2 cup water, the honey, cranberries, rosemary, and cardamon to a boil over high heat. Boil 5 minutes or until the cranberries begin to burst, then remove from the heat. Let cool. Remove the rosemary and cardamon pods. If desired, strain out the cranberries.
  2. In a large pitcher, combine the cranberry syrup, rosé, elderflower liquor, cranberry juice, and orange bitters. Chill until ready to serve, up to 2 days.
  3. Add the orange slices and ginger beer just before serving. Garnish each drink with a candied rosemary (recipe below), if desired.

For the candied rosemary garnish:

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Gently run rosemary sprigs under a little water to dampen and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Sprinkle the rosemary with granulated sugar on all sides, making sure the rosemary is thoroughly coated in sugar.
  4. Allow to dry on the baking sheet for 1 hour. The rosemary can be made 1 day in advance and stored at room temperature.

Want more recipes for Thanksgiving drinks like this one? Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter!

This post has been updated.

thanksgiving recipesfriendsgiving recipesrecipesdrink recipesdrinksthanksgivingcocktails

6 Gorgeous Home Color Trends That Aren't Just Neutrals

Color lovers are in for a treat this season as the best trending home decor hues lean heavily into moody jewel tones and nature-inspired hues. Espresso and burgundy and hints of gold – with a few earthy pastels in the mix – are brightening our neutral spaces and giving us a reason to love color again this season. Here are six moody, modern, and monochrome color trends to embrace this season and decorate your happy home.

Future Dusk

With warm colors dominating in recent years, dark moodier blues are creeping back in for us blue lovers. Trend forecaster WGSN's Color of the Year,Future Dusk, is moody with sense of mystery and escapism. It's like your dependable midnight blue, it manages to feel both familiar and futuristic, earthy and actually celestial, beautifully shown in this CB2 Cantar Blue Velvet Upholstered Queen Bed.

Shop Future Dusk Decor

Winton Dining Table

Lemieux et Cie

Roanne Renee Rug

Anthropologie

Liv Wood Lamp Base

CB2

Foley Faux Mohair Navy Dining Armchair

Golden Yellow

Lemieux Et Cie

Darker shades like deep gold are adding drama and sophistication to interiors. Whether you opt for subtle buttery yellows (also on trend) or go bold with gold, yellow tones can brighten and elevate your space. Find this rich hue on accent walls, furniture, or accessories.

Shop Yellow Home Decor

West Elm

Cotton Velvet Blackout Curtain

Lulu and Georgia

Painterly Stripe Linen Long Bolster Pillow

Anthropologie

Golden Flight Wall Art

Burgundy

Meredith Kleinman Design

Deep, rich reds are classic for the season and gracing our living spaces with stunning color. Use this color on kitchen cabinets (try Benjamin Moore Classic Burgundy) or your favorite furniture and decor.

Shop Burgundy Home Decor

Interior Define

Maxwell Fabric Sofa By Apartment Therapy

Ruggable

Renni Burgundy Rug

West Elm

Hastings Table Lamp

Lulu and Georgia

Carmine Velvet Pillow

Earthy Greens

Gavin Cater

Married couple and design duo behind the Los Angeles design firm Bungalowe, Karan and Sapna Aggarwal, recently renovated their home in the Highland Park neighborhood of LA with this earthy green zellige tile as the accent color in an otherwise neutral home. (Check out their gorgeous home for rustic decor inspiration). Moss, olive, and deep greens like this one are making their way into homes that want to bring in some striking color.

Shop Earthy Green Home Decor

Ruggable

Taylor Washable Wool Rug

Urban Outfitters

Bed Threads French Flax Linen Scalloped European Pillowcases

Birch Lane

Flower on Green by Studio M

Espresso And Mocha

Nils Timm

These yummy colors are on the rise as a modern neutral. Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn of celeb-loved L.A. design firm House of Rolison were tasked with reimagining this 1950s Beverly Hills home in the coveted neighborhood for a modern era and chose chocolate and dark woody accents throughout. UK-based Graham & Brown announced its Color of the Year 2025: Elderton, a neutral toned brown inspired by nature. These versatile hues add a sense of warmth and earthiness, perfect for creating cozy, inviting spaces.

Shop Espresso And Mocha Home Decor

Ferm Living

Mara Knotted Rug

Pottery Barn

Ozark Swivel Chair

Urban Outfitters

Sienna Checkered Stool

Earthy Pinks

Desenio

Earthy pinks like toffee, clay and mauve are softening up the rich jewel tone vibe in spaces like this Whimsical Wonderland Gallery Wall. Mixed with more saturated pinks it creates a stunning contrast for all your demure dreams.

Shop Earthy Pink Decor

Lulu and Georgia

Kimber Linen Pillow

Piglet in Bed

Warm Clay 100% Linen Sheets

CB2

Fitz Rose Velvet Swivel Chair

Revival

Annikeris Rug

Subscribe to our newsletter for more home decor inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

home decor trendshome decor inspirationinterior designcolor trendshome colorsearthy colorsblue decoryellow decorred decorgreen decorpink decorhome decor

40 Early Black Friday Deals You Can Start Shopping Now

While Black Friday is a great chance to save big on expensive purchases, that doesn't mean you have to *wait* until November 29th in order to start shopping. Case in point? We've rounded up 40 early Black Friday deals that you can grab ahead of time — and some of these are so good that you won't want to wait. From smart televisions to iPads, you're sure to find more than a few deals in here that are worthy of being added to your cart. Keep scrolling for more.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Fortifying Serum That Can Help Your Eyelashes Grow Thicker

Amazon

Lashes looking a little sparse? Then this serum is worth a look. Simply line your lids with it twice a day, and the bioactivated elastin renewal protein will help them grow thicker. A clinical trial found that 60% of users saw a noticeable difference in their lash length and thickness after 12 weeks — and one tube is enough to last you for up to two months.

See it on Amazon

A Soda Maker Machine That Can Help You Save *So* Much Money

Amazon

Stop wasting money on soda and use this machine to make your own at home. Using it is as easy as filling up the included bottle with water, twisting it into the machine, then pressing down on the top button to inject fizzy bubbles into the water. And while the Co2 canister is not included, this particular machine is compatible with any standard-sized canister (regardless of the brand).

See it on Amazon

The Ice Bath Tub That’s Suitable for Indoor As Well as Outdoor Use

Amazon

Anyone who enjoys a stimulating cold plunge can appreciate this ice bath tub. It's waterproof as well as tear-resistant, and features a pearl foam inner layer that helps keep the icy-cold water at your ideal temperature. One reviewer wrote, "The tub is incredibly easy to install, and I had it ready for use in no time. Its portability is a significant plus, allowing me to move it around as needed, whether indoors or outdoors."

See it on Amazon

A Nespresso Coffee Maker That Heats Up in Just 25 Seconds

Amazon

Unlike some coffee makers, this Nespresso machine only takes about 25 seconds to heat up, which means you won't be stuck waiting around for it to be ready to brew a delicious cup of coffee. The amount of coffee it brews is also adjustable up to four levels: 5 or 8 ounces, as well as single or double espresso. Plus, the 40-ounce water tank can be adjusted so that it fits into tight spaces if needed.

See it on Amazon

The Bose Headphones That Deliver up to 24 Hours of Playback

Amazon

Black Friday is a great time to save big on big-ticket electronics, and these Bose headphones are no exception. The battery lasts for up to 24 hours before it needs to be recharged, while large, over-the-ear cups work to block outside noise for crystal-clear sound quality. Choose from five colors: blue, diamond, black, sandstone, or white.

See it on Amazon

These Apple AirTags That Help You Keep Track of Misplaced Items

Amazon

Purses, pets, suitcases — these Apple AirTags can help you find all sorts of commonly misplaced items. Once synced with your iPhone, you'll be able to use the "Find My Friends" app to see the AirTag's location in real time. Or, if you know the AirTag is nearby, you can also use the app to have it let out a loud ring so that it's easy to find.

See it on Amazon

This Portable Campfire That Produces Hardly Any Smoke

Amazon

You don't need to collect wood if you want to enjoy a bonfire. Enter: this portable campfire. It's made from eco-friendly soy wax that produces hardly any smoke as it burns, and there's enough wax inside to keep it burning for up to 5 hours. Plus, the compact size makes it easy to pack inside your bag when camping.

See it on Amazon

An iPad Air With a Stunning Liquid Retina Display

Amazon

Whether you're watching videos or simply scrolling through Instagram, the liquid retina display on this iPad Air delivers deep, rich colors for a stunningly immersive viewing experience. The 12-megapixel camera is also great for recording video as well as snapping photos. And with 128 gigabytes of storage space, feel free to load it up with movies, games, or nearly any other type of media you can think of.

See it on Amazon

The Stainless Steel Splatter Screen That Helps Keep Your Counters Clean

Amazon

While frying food can be delicious, it can also be incredibly messy — unless you have this splatter screen. It keeps those hot oil pops inside your pot or pan, helping keep your counters clean so that there's less mess to wipe up once you've finished cooking. The best part? The stainless steel mesh won't rust over time.

See it on Amazon

A 2022 MacBook Air That Weighs Less Than 3 Pounds

Amazon

Got an outdated laptop that feels like it weighs a ton? Then this 2022 MacBook Air is a total steal come Black Friday. At less than 3 pounds in weight, carrying it around your home is no trouble at all — and 24 gigabytes of internal memory make it suitable for work, school, and every task in between. Plus, the battery lasts for up to 18 hours before you'll need to plug it into an outlet.

See it on Amazon

This Cordless Vacuum With Specialized Bristles That Latch Onto Pet Hair

Amazon

Unlike some vacuums, this one features specialized rubber bristles that lift stubborn patches of pet hair off your carpets, upholstery, and more. The cordless design makes it easy to maneuver around your home. But if that isn't enough? Many reviewers noted how they were able to use it for up to 20 continuous minutes when fully charged.

See it on Amazon

A Smart Television That Features QLED Quantum Dot Technology To Deliver Vivid Picture Quality

Amazon

Still putting up with that crummy television you bought years ago? Now's your chance to upgrade to this smart one. It features QLED quantum dot technology that significantly broadens the range of color you're able to see, delivering noticeably more vivid picture quality than some comparable sets. And at 55 inches in size, you truly can't beat the sub-$400 price tag.

See it on Amazon

The Roomy Travel Backpack That Meets the Carry-On Restrictions for Most Airlines

Amazon

Few things are as annoying as being told you have to check your backpack before boarding a flight. Luckily, this backpack meets the carry-on size restrictions for most airlines — but don't be fooled. It's still so roomy on the inside that you shouldn't have any trouble fitting clothes, tablets, and more. Choose from four colors: black, gray, green, or blue.

See it on Amazon

This Memory Foam Body Pillow That Contours With Your Curves for Added Comfort

Amazon

Not only does this body pillow contour along with your curves for added comfort, but the shredded memory foam filling also allows air to circulate throughout. The result? You're less likely to grow hot when snuggling with it — and since there's no need to remove the cover before washing, cleaning it when dirty is a total breeze.

See it on Amazon

A Cordless Water Flosser That Can Remove up to 99% of Plaque From Teeth

Amazon

There's a reason why many dentists recommend ditching the string floss in favor of a water flosser like this one. Not only can it remove up to 99% of plaque from teeth, but its water pressure is also adjustable up to two levels, making it suitable for sensitive mouths. Each order also includes three AA batteries so that you can start using it right out of the box.

See it on Amazon

The Swiveling Electric Razor That Delivers a Close, Gentle Shave

Amazon

Still using a crummy disposable razor? Now's your chance to upgrade to this electric one from Braun while it's on sale. The swiveling head pivots along with your face to deliver a close, gentle shave that won't leave skin feeling irritated. Plus, the battery delivers up to 60 minutes of use before it needs to be recharged.

See it on Amazon

This Smart Air Purifier That’s Compatible With Alexa

Amazon

Smoke, pet dander, pollen — the HEPA filter inside of this air purifier can remove all sorts of airborne contaminants from your home. It's suitable for rooms up to 1,200 square feet in size, making it suitable for living rooms, basements, and more. The best part? Once paired with Alexa, you can even control it using simple voice commands without having to get up from the couch. Or, if you don't have a smart home assistant, simply use the downloadable smartphone app to adjust its settings remotely.

See it on Amazon

A Colorful Suitcase With an Extra-Thick ABS Exterior

Amazon

Not only does this suitcase feature a durable hardshell exterior, but it's also scratch-resistant — so there's no need to worry about how it'll look after being jostled around the airport. It can also expand in order to provide up to 15% more packing space. But if that isn't enough? You also have the choice of four colors: orange, black, light blue, or navy.

See it on Amazon

The Mortar and Pestle Set Made From High-Quality Granite

Amazon

Whether you're grinding up spices, preparing guacamole, or serving up molcajete, this mortar and pestle set is a solid pick. It's made from high-quality granite stone that won't latch onto any residual flavors or odors — and each one can hold up to 2 cups' worth of ingredients.

See it on Amazon

This Little Green Vacuum That Powers Through Spills and Stains

Amazon

From pet accidents to spilled wine, this little green vacuum from BISSELL is designed to power through all sorts of messes. It works particularly well when cleaning furniture, as its compact size makes it easy to carry as well as maneuver around awkward cushions and bolsters. Plus, each order includes a bottle of cleanser so that you can start using it right out of the box.

See it on Amazon

The Smart Humidifier With a UV-Powered Pump That Helps Keep the Water Tank Clean

Amazon

Dry air can leave your throat feeling scratchy. Luckily, this smart humidifier is an easy fix. It runs at a super-quiet level so that you don't have to worry about it disturbing your sleep — and the UV-powered water pump works to reduce the risk of bacterial growth inside the water reservoir, helping ensure you're breathing the cleanest air possible. The best part? You can adjust its settings remotely using the downloadable Blueair app.

See it on Amazon

A Cleansing Face Wash That’s Fortified With Manuka Honey

Amazon

Manuka honey is only one of the nourishing ingredients you'll find inside of this face wash. Australian cehami extract works to soothe irritated skin, while a blend of hyaluronic acid and aloe vera help keep your complexion from feeling dry. And if you're worried about whether or not it'll irritate your sensitive skin? One reviewer wrote, "I have very sensitive skin and this doesn’t irritate it.It basically has no smell (which is something I’m always after and is hard to find!) and works great to remove my makeup and not make me feel too dry or oily."

See it on Amazon

This Amazon Fire TV Stick That Transforms Plain Televisions Into Smart Ones

Amazon

Don't want to shell out for a smart television? Not a problem when you have this Amazon fire TV stick. Simply plug it into one of the HDMI ports on your television, and you'll instantly be able to stream Netflix, Hulu, and more once connected to the internet. And unlike some streaming sticks, this one is compatible with 4K video quality.

See it on Amazon

The Smart Security Camera With Built-In Night Vision

Amazon

Having a professional security system installed in your home is rarely ever cheap, which is why we're fans of this smart camera. Built-in night vision lets you see what's happening inside your home once the sun has gone down — and two-way audio lets you talk to your pets while you're away. Plus, you can even set it up so that it sends your phone notifications whenever it senses motion inside your home.

See it on Amazon

A Bluetooth Mouse That’s Compatible With Nearly Any Operating System

Amazon

Regardless of whether you have a Windows, Linux, or Apple computer, this mouse is designed to work with virtually any operating system. It only needs one AAA battery (which comes included) in order to deliver up to 18 months of use. And unlike some mice, this one doesn't require you to download any additional software in order to get it up and running. Simply connect it to your computer via Bluetooth and it's ready to go.

See it on Amazon

These Steamer Pucks That Release Soothing Essential Oils While You Shower

Amazon

Anyone who appreciates a quality bath bomb can enjoy these steamer pucks. Toss one overtop of your bathtub drain before starting your shower, and it'll release soothing essential oils as you bathe. Each order includes six scents: lavender, chamomile, bergamot spring, citrus grove, eucalyptus mint, and jasmine.

See it on Amazon

This Stabilizer Rod That Helps You Record Shake-Free Video

Amazon

Ever notice how the videos you record with your phone can be a bit shaky? That's where this stabilizer rod comes in handy. It ensures that your videos come out looking buttery-smooth, regardless of whether your hands are shaky or the subject in your video is unsteady. Plus, the included tripod lets you record video without needing to hold it up manually.

See it on Amazon

The Smart Power Strip With Individually Controlled Outlets

Amazon

Consider this smart power strip a much-needed upgrade from the outdated one you've likely been using. The outlets can be controlled individually — so there's no need to power down the entire strip when you want to turn off one particular gadget. And since it's compatible with Alexa, you can even control it using convenient voice commands once synced.

See it on Amazon

A Robot Vacuum That Automatically Adjusts Its Settings When Moving From Hard Floors to Carpet

Amazon

Don't shell out for a pricy maid service. Instead, save some money and grab this robot vacuum. BoostIQ Technology allows it to automatically adjust its suction as it moves from hard floors to carpet, while a powerful battery on the inside keeps it running for up to 100 continuous minutes. The best part? The low profile allows it to easily fit under most pieces of furniture.

See it on Amazon

This Dashboard Camera That Mounts Discreetly Behind Your Rearview Mirror

Amazon

You'll be glad you installed this dashboard camera the next time someone scratches your car. Its 140-degree lens captures a wide swath of space in clear, 1080p video quality. Any videos you choose to save are also automatically uploaded to a secure online server for you to view later. Plus, the parking guard feature monitors activity around your car, alerting you if it detects an accident has occurred.

See it on Amazon

The Miniature Food Processor That Can Help You Save So Much Time Cooking Meals

Amazon

Slicing up ingredients can quickly become tedious. Luckily, this food chopper is on sale for Black Friday. Stainless steel blades on the inside easily cut through everything from fruit to ice cubes, and all parts (except for the motorized base) are safe to clean inside the dishwasher. Choose from four colors: white, gray, blue, or silver.

See it on Amazon

An Under Armour Gym Bag With a Separate Compartment for Shoes

Amazon

Not only does this gym bag from Under Armour feature a separate compartment for your shoes, but its tough, TPU-coated bottom works to keep everything inside of it safe from dirt while also giving it some added durability. Two mesh pockets on the side give you somewhere convenient to stash water bottles. And unlike some gym bags, this one is even water-resistant.

See it on Amazon

These Huggie Earrings Plated With Real 14-Karat Gold

Amazon

These huggie earrings are proof that you don't have to spend an arm and a leg in order to afford high-quality jewelry. They're plated with real 14-karat gold, and feature cubic zirconia gemstones that sparkle just like real diamonds. "The 14K gold-plated finish gives these earrings a luxurious appearance without the hefty price tag of solid gold jewelry," wrote one reviewer. "They have a high-quality look and feel, and I've received numerous compliments when wearing them."

See it on Amazon

A Bluetooth Speaker That Won’t Break if You Get It Wet

Amazon

Whether you're headed to the beach or in the mood to jam out to music while you shower, this Bluetooth speaker is a solid pick. Its waterproof design ensures that it'll continue working if you accidentally get it wet — and the battery lasts for up to 12 hours before it needs to be recharged. Choose from nine colors: red, blue, pink, and more.

See it on Amazon

This Expansive Cookware Set Made From Rust-Resistant Stainless Steel

Amazon

Still using those same crummy pots and pans you bought years ago? Now's your chance to upgrade to this Cuisinart set. Each piece is made from rust-resistant stainless steel that's completely free from any PFOAs. And since the handles are riveted, you can rest assured that they won't shake loose over time.

See it on Amazon

This Bose Soundbar That Delivers Big Sound in Small Spaces

Amazon

You don't have to set up a complicated surround sound system if you want to upgrade your television. Instead, opt for this soundbar from Bose. Two angled full-range drivers deliver a realistic audio experience. But if that isn't enough? It's also specially designed to focus on clarifying dialogue — so there's a good chance you won't have to strain in order to figure out what people are saying.

See it on Amazon

A Personal Water Filter That Lets You Sip Directly From Fresh Water Sources

Amazon

Streams, ponds, lakes — this personal water filter can be used to sip from all sorts of fresh water sources. It removes up to 99% of bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, as well as silt, sand, or anything else that's leaving your water looking cloudy. And since it takes up hardly any space, finding room for it in your camping gear should be no trouble at all.

See it on Amazon

The Reusable Hand Warmer That Delivers up to 12 Hours of Heat

Amazon

Ditch those disposable hand warmers and save some money by upgrading to this reusable version. It can deliver up to 12 hours' worth of heat before you'll need to refill it — and it's compatible with plain lighter fluid as well as specialized Zippo hard warmer fuel. Plus, the small size makes it easy to fit inside your pocket.

See it on Amazon

This Immersion Blender That Helps Cut Down on Mess

Amazon

Mixing up ingredients inside a standard blender means you'll have a lid and blending jar to clean. So if you're looking to cut down on mess? Consider upgrading to this immersion blender. It lets you blend items right inside your mixing bowl or pot, which means you'll have less to clean up once you've finished. And if you're worried about how powerful it is? One reviewer wrote that it "...has the power I need for mashing up soybeans for soy milk, quickly fluffing egg whites and blending sugar and eggs."

See it on Amazon

The Universal Phone Mount That Sticks to Your Dashboard Without Using Adhesive

Amazon

Phone mounts that hook onto the air vents on your dashboard can be shaky. Luckily, this one attaches to the top of your dashboard using a strong suction cup — no need for any messy adhesives. It's also universally compatible with nearly any smartphone, and features a built-in cord management system to help keep it looking tidy while you're driving.

See it on Amazon