Get creative * and * boost your productivity with these workspace organization hacks!
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Production Credits:
Lead Videographer: Michael Sullivan
Producer: Cassidy Miller
Art Director: Muriel Schneider
Get creative * and * boost your productivity with these workspace organization hacks!
This browser does not support the video element.
Production Credits:
Lead Videographer: Michael Sullivan
Producer: Cassidy Miller
Art Director: Muriel Schneider
Kirsten Blazek, founder of a design firm A1000XBetter in Los Angeles, describes her friend Jennifer as “the definition of a ride or die friend.” They’ve traveled the world together, celebrated many milestone moments, and both have a passion for design. Jennifer Parker-Stanton, her pal, is a realtor living in Los Angeles, but in a previous life was a costumer for film.
“She is a thrifter and nothing makes her happier than treasure hunting for vintage items,” says Kirsten. “She especially loves mid-century ceramics and both she and her husband have a special love of 1970’s inspired design.” That means lots of wood, texture, and curated collected vintage items from that era.
Jennifer Parker-Stanton
Jennifer’s office in their 1958 Mid Century Modern home was in need of a major upgrade. She enlisted Kirsten to help bring her vision to life by infusing A1000XBetter’s design magic.
California modern with a woodsy coastal vibe was the ask. “We wanted to stay true to the style of the house but inject a nod to elements that would be found in a wood-clad Big Sur-type home,” says Kirsten.
Michael P.H. Clifford
Kirsten’s team renovated three spaces that flowed into each other – an office, bathroom, and laundry room.
Storage was a “must have” for all three rooms, as was a bathtub, a generously sized shower, and a laundry room that wasn’t the size of a tiny closet.
Michael P.H. Clifford
Kirsten designed custom millwork for all three spaces to maximize the storage. They reworked the layout in the office space to swap an old built-in closet with a whole wall of storage behind the desk area.
“We also added storage and shelving on the adjacent wall and designed a custom desk that looked out to the pool area,” says Kirsten. This created an L-shaped area for Jennifer's workspace.
Michael P.H. Clifford
Kirsten used Jennifer’s collected vintage art collection that she thrifted throughout the years wisely throughout the space. “It was a great way to be able to incorporate some personality and mix some soulful vintage items with the new remodel."
Michael P.H. Clifford
The result? “The space is an earthy, organic, and moody space with a whimsical 70s-inspired design," she says of the overall design.
Jennifer Parker-Stanton
The former bathroom featured dated tile that didn't suit the mid-century modern home aesthetic. It had to go.
Michael P.H. Clifford
Kirsten opened up the bathroom to grant her bestie the wish of a bigger bathtub. She also incorporated rich green Heath Ceramics tile and terrazzo flooring into the bathroom, which creates a perfect juxtaposition against the warm walnut wood walls.
Michael P.H. Clifford
More storage in the bathroom includes cabinet towers on either side of the bathroom vanity.
Jennifer Parker-Stanton
The laundry room before is pretty sad aesthetically with barely enough room to move around.
Michael P.H. Clifford
Kirsten created a galley space that mimicked the rich tones and moody hues that makes the whole space feel unique and effortlessly cool. Zak and Fox wallpaper adds an element of nature and whimsy, from wall to ceiling.
Michael P.H. Clifford
In the laundry room, Kirsten used a stackable washer/ dryer to maximize the space and bring in a sink and full-sized utility cabinets.The aesthetic is effortless and breezy with a vintage-inspired feel, and we love it!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Lead image via Michael P.H. Clifford
I'm not trying to rush into a new year, but 2025 is looking incredibly promising based on the new books coming our way. At this point, I'm going to need more bookshelves to keep up with the influx of electrifying novels I keep adding to my growing TBR pile. So, here's the inside scoop on all the most-anticipated books for next year that you'll want to start thinking about — and even pre-order!
You know I love being your book bestie, so let's jump into these juicy titles and plots that have me buzzing with excitement!
Amazon
Amazon
Valerie Quinn's show is on the verge of being canceled because of her wild choices, and she's not ready for that to happen. In a hasty attempt to save it, she decides to put her band Glitter Bats back together. It's just the thing she thinks her public image needs. That and a certain bassist — Caleb Sloane.
Sadly, Valerie and Caleb aren't on speaking turns due to an icky breakup that didn't fare well for the latter. But, Caleb's always found it hard to resist Valerie's charm so he decides to give their reunion and faux relationship another chance. It seems like a good ideas, but they'll have to figure out to avoid all the pitfalls that led to their demise if they want things to work in their favor.
Amazon
Amazon
Nothing shakes up your life quite like the disappearance of your parents and the fact your ex is the only person you trust to help you find out what happened to them. Reaching out to Noah Turner isn't at the top of Olivia Porter's to-do list, but she doesn't have a choice because he was a special investigative agent for the National Park Service. Of course he was good at his job and terrible at maintaining a relationship — at least that's what Olivia seems to think.
When they're forced to be in each other's orbit again, old feelings start to come up as the race to find Olivia's parents gets underway. But, Noah and Olivia will have to decide if they trust each other to stop living in their heads so they can have give love a real chance.
Amazon
Nura Khan's following in her family's footsteps by continuing in the matchmaking business. She's super successful and has an amazing clientele due to how hard she works. Sadly, she's yet to put her skills to good use in her own romantic life. But, her childhood best friend decides to step in when she needs him the most. He's her childhood best friend who conjures up deep feelings in her even if he doesn't know it yet.
However, someone seems to have it out for her when a curated wedding crashes and burns among other odd occurrences. The more her work is sabotaged, the more Nura becomes convinced someone has it our for her. With the help of Azar and her team, she'll try to solve the mystery of who's toying with her before people get hurt.
Amazon
Aiden Valentine's become jaded by love even though he's hosting Baltimore's romance hotline, Heartstrings. He's tired of giving everyone else advice while his romantic life is all over the place, but he can't escape it after an interview with a young girl about her mom's dating life becomes popularized. That mom happens to be Lucie Stone.
In her eyes, she's doing a great job at work and has the support of her family. She never questioned things until her daughter called into Heartstrings and it makes her become open to love. Enter a collaboration with Aiden.
Though they're supposed to be helping Lucie's love life, there's a magnetic connection between them that's undeniable. Lucie knows this little "find romance" thing is meant for her, but she can't but wonder if it's closer than she or Aiden are willing to admit.
Amazon
Jane and Dan's 19-year-old marriage has reached a crossroads that's threatening to send them in different directions. Well, it's mostly Jane who's become disenchanted with her life. She feels lost in motherhood, her career, and believes she's not the only person Dan has been with. Still, the couple decide to head to the luxurious restaurant La Fin du Monde in celebration of their anniversary. It's just Dan isn't suspecting Jane wants to drop a bombshell on him.
However, her plans are slashed into pieces when a climate activist group takes over the dining area. It's not just that, it seems like they've taken pages from book she wrote. She thought it was a failure, but apparently someone has been drawing inspiration from it.
Jane and Dan must rely on each other since they're privy to how this hostage situation will unfold. Although it's not what she had in mind, maybe it could be the very thing to put the spark back into their marriage.
Amazon
Amazon
One night stands are meant to be a "hit it and quit it" sort of thing, but running into a former fling is inevitable sometimes. What makes things awkward is when you become stranded with the person you didn't think you'd see again after a fun rump. That's exactly what happens to Zeke and Lexi when their sexy time overshadows logic.
While on Zeke's father's houseboat, neither of them make sure it's connected to the dock so they drift out and realize it much too late. Surrounded by a large body of water and minimal resources, Zeke and Lexi go from a one night stand to a mini version of Gilligan's Island, except they're not exactly laughing at their predicament at first.
But, their long talks begin to develop into much more and it proves that disasters are the best way to see what someone is made of.
Amazon
Emily Henry's gearing up for the release of a new Spring 2025 read and it has all the makings of a juicy rom-com, according to People.
When two writers find themselves on Little Crescent Island for a chance of a lifetime, a hilarious chase ensues as they rush to be chosen to write the biography of the mysterious Margaret Ives. Whereas Hayden Anderson is a Pulitzer-prize winning success, Alice Scott has been looking to make her mark as a writer. Though Alice doesn't want to think of it this way, she's pulled into the competitive nature of receiving Margaret's blessing because Hayden isn't letting up.
The problem is that Margaret isn't sharing everything she knows and the NDA the two have signed are making it difficult to decide what's worth adding to her story or not. The closer Alice and Hayden get to the finish line, the more their competition pulls them closer together for a steamy tale that'll leave your jaw on the floor by the time you read the last page.
Amazon
She's a decent photographer who spends time making other people look good, but she wonders if this is how she'll spend the rest of her life. No sooner than she has that thought, something happens to Nan that makes Alice want to take them back to Barry's Bay.
As soon as they arrive, someone familiar comes roaring by on the lake — Charlie Florek — and she feels like a giddy teen all over again. Though they're both adults, Charlie has a way of making her feel carefree, but she's afraid to open her heart. Could the change she's been looking for live in Barry's Bay?
Amazon
Hendrix Barry is the single, carefree, and sexy 'auntie' out of her friends — not that she's complaining. From the outside looking in, it seems like she doesn't have room to worry about anything. I mean, she's literally #careergoals in the flesh! But aside from the glitz and glamour of her life, Hendrix has to learn how to deal with being a caregiver for a parent.The last thing she needs is to add a man to her busy schedule — or so she thinks.
Her world bursts into a beautiful explosion of color when she meets sexy tech mogul Maverick Bell. He's as charming as as he is business savvy and seems to know how to knock Hendrix off her carefully planted feet. But, Maverick is the last person she's supposed to be with. The problem is that she can't seem to stay away from him.
Can't Get Enough is the final book of the Skyland series so make sure you read Before I Let Go and This Could Be Us to get introduced to the friends at the heart of each moving book!
Amazon
Nadia and Cass Brenner have inherited Ocean House along with everything that comes with it. This means they've been set up for success by way of a successful yacht business that had elite clientele from America to Europe and are on their way to securing even more funding with the commission of an even bigger build for a wealthy billionaire. But just as they're on the brink of securing things, Cass' life is abruptly cut short.
The police wave it off as a suicide, but Nadia's intuition and sleuthing help her uncover the dangerous things Cass was involved in before her death. Unfortunately, she doesn't do a good job of evading the same world her sister was involved in and becomes embroiled in the dark web that eventually caught up with her sister.
Amazon
Dawn and Wyatt Decker are one of reality TV's beloved couples thanks to their show, The Perfect Home, but it seems like ego and fate have different plans for them. For starters, Dawn's never been keen to the idea of being a 'celebrity,' but Wyatt's always welcomed fame to the point he wants even more of it. One thing they agree on is the expansion of their family, but infertility issues have made it difficult for them to conceive due to Wyatt's medical issues.
However, his hunger to improve the situation turns sinister when he has an adverse reaction to fertility drugs. Though he and Dawn receive their miracle twins, Wyatt becomes a darker version of himself that Dawn can't recognize. When she decides to go on the run with their babies to protect them from her husband's new cruel nature, Wyatt convinces viewers and closed loved ones that Dawn is the one with the problem.
This mother will have to use her intellect and their past to put an end to the man she once knew. But it'll require her to trust allies in this fast-paced thriller.
Amazon
Before long, Wesley receives a prestigious invitation by director Vaughn Kline to take part in a new Shakespeare project in New Mexico and Margaret makes the decision to tag along. But, they both find salacious things in the desert which threaten their marriage and sanity.
Amazon
They decided to stop reaping the rewards of helping the world in their own twisted way to become a nuclear family and almost fooled themselves into thinking they'd put their pasts behind them. But Hazel can't stop thinking about the thrill of killing and it's really starting to bother her.
The slight problem is Fox is settling into the life they've built, especially where fatherhood is concerned. At the same time, he knows Hazel is struggling and completely understands her. There's no judgement from him until Hazel does the unthinkable and the police follow the breadcrumbs right to their front door.
Amazon
Mila del Angél may have been an aspiring writer at one point, but her passion is reignited when famous author J.R. Alastor picks her to host a writing treat in Maine. No one knows Alastor's identity, but that's all a part of the fun. What's even more thrilling is the fact Mila isn't exactly best friends with one of the other guests that'll be attending.
Between the two of them, Alastor and Mila have created a week full of fun for the thriller authors, but no one knows that the latter is willing to kill the guest she's not a fan of. Before she can act, someone else is found dead and it has nothing to do with Mila.
Whoever is doing the killing knows every single trick there is to murder someone and disappear into obscurity which makes Mila wonder why she was truly chosen to host a retreat.
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
Billie Hope's prayers are answered when she's given the chance to purchase a gorgeous Victorian home in Juliana, Georgia for $100. Anyone else wouldn't touch this offer with a 10-foot pole, but it's just the thing Billie's been waiting for. It'll give her a chance to leave bustling NYC behind and all of the pain that followed her family once she was forced to close her restaurant. And that's the other thing — the offer to buy the new home comes with the promise of a business grant to help her open a new eatery!
It doesn't take long for Billie, her husband Peter, and their young daughter Meredith to move to Juliana. They start to settle into their new life, oblivious to the tiny red flags that keep appearing. Over time, Billie begins having nightmares coupled with the hardships her marriage begins facing. Also, the town's elders continue to make their presence known in uncomfortable ways.
Despite the sugary sweet charm of the south, Billie begins wondering if she made a grave decision by moving her family to Juliana.
Amazon
Convinced the police aren't telling the truth about what happened, Jane and her friends try to start solving the case themselves. But, nothing is as clear as they'd hope it would be and they're convinced that someone may be waiting until the right moment to trap them.
Though she survived what happened in Delphine, Jane's never talked about it until now.
Amazon
Amazon
Written by veteran journalist Danielle Prescod, The Rules of Fortune follows the lives of the Carter Family. True to tradition, they gather for a moment of celebration in Martha's Vineyard and expect nothing out of the ordinary to happen. But when the patriarch dies, the media quickly swoops in with questions about the family's booming business. At the center of it all is Kennedy Carter.
She planned to debut a documentary she'd been working on prior to her father's death, but her plans shift when she begins wondering about who her father was. She's never cared for the niceties of coming from a wealthy family or the ruthless nature it takes to have the things they've been afforded.
The more she digs into her father's past, the more she realizes how little she knew about her family's empire and will be faced with a moral task that will follow her for the rest of her life.
Amazon
She stopped feeling sure of herself and began to push everyone away as she grappled with everything from anxiety to shame. It didn't help that one of doctors traumatized her either. And when she gave birth? She didn't feel the flood of emotions other mothers did and it was confusing because she couldn't understand what was wrong with her.
Amazon
Lila Kennedy's suffering in the wake of having an unhappy marriage, daughters who won't listen, and more. She doesn't even know what's going on with her career anymore and feels like everything is in limbo.
Life seems to think she needs more hiccups when her dad decides to enter her life again. The wound he left when he decided to pursue a life in Hollywood over three decades ago is reopened, leaving Lila on the brink of exploding. Instead of doing that, her father's presence begins to crack the wall around her heart and teach everyone the most important lessons about having a family you love.
Amazon
Annie is looking forward to the end of her nine-month pregnancy and is almost at the finish line when a detrimental earthquake shocks her town in Portland, Oregon. Having been at IKEA when it struck, she's left without a means to contact anyone which forces her to try to walk through destruction.She comes across others who are in need of help and even experiences the care of people she's never met before. The more Annie walks, the more she begins unpacking thinks about her marriage and her thoughts surrounding motherhood in a way that makes her want to approach life differently.
Amazon
In between Tobey and Klaus' story lies that of the latter's granddaughter. Diane "Di" Stiegl began to make a career for herself as an artist in NYC during the 80s who manages to use art to paint a tale of the American presidency and pop culture at the time. Somehow this garners her the things her grandfather tried to hold onto.
Amazon
Claire and Aaron Litvak's horrible divorce seems to be the least of their concern when their young daughter Lindsey is involved in a terrible car accident. They rush to her side at the hospital and wait with bated breath to see if their daughter will survive or not. Somehow this begins to not only unravel what caused Claire and Aaron to get divorced, but the former couple will begin to look at why Lindsey stopped talking to them. The only person who knows everything about Lindsey is her sister Grace.
Deciding to stay in Shanghai, Claire and Aaron struggle to adjust. Over time, they deal with the fact Lindsey's life may end along with the idea that she may have been hiding much bigger secrets.
Amazon
Ryan and Lillian Bright are in love with each other as well as the fact their young infant Georgette has been born. Everything seems great aside from the fact Lillian and Ryan are hiding things from each other. One has a secret son while the other grapples with a terrible alcohol addiction that manifests in huge ways as Georgette grows.
Things eventually reach a boiling point, leaving Georgette feeling jaded by the parents she thought she knew. It's around this time her half-brother begins searching for the his true family that pulls Georgette back. Somehow, they'll have to ask themselves if family is worth forgiving or not.
Amazon
This caused her to question why she'd allow herself to become a people-pleaser and she sought to delegate her tasks to others. Fed up with the way no one seemed to want to help, she decided that maybe she wasn't the only one with a problem.
Amazon
Amazon
You may know him as the successful rapper Big Sean, but Sean Anderson proves there's more to him than meets the eye in Go Higher: Five Practices for Purpose, Success, and Inner Peace. Despite his success, he's still experienced highs and lows like everyone else, even going as far to name his anxiety and depression.
He introduces readers to key moments that shaped his life — from signing with Kanye West to learning how to cultivate healthy relationships with others. Along the way, Sean has learned how to self-reflect and do the work to become a better person which is why he decided to write Go Higher: Five Practices for Purpose, Success, and Inner Peace.
Outlined as accepting, strategizing, trying, trusting, and manifesting, these five practices will help you work out your day to day life in a way that feels practical.
Amazon
Amazon
Olga Khazan couldn't figure out why she was unhappy despite having a beautiful relationship and the career she'd always wanted. She's always known she's been an overachiever, but she started to fear that it was getting in the way of her enjoying the fruits of her labor. Thus began an experiment that lasted 365 days.
She wanted to know if it's possible to completely change your personality so she dived into the five traits that make it up — extroversion, conscientiousness, agreeableness, openness, and neuroticism. Based on the research she looked at, Olga realized that consistency plays a role in shaping or changing our personalities — except she had to do a ton of faking to even remotely see a change.
What she found is everything she's willing to share in Me, But Better, but it doesn't end the way you think it does.
Amazon
Amazon
Grace L. Williams dives into that and more in Give Her Credit, shining a light on how women like B. LaRae Orullian, Carol Green, Judi Foster, and more changed the way the world looked at women's finances. They dared to break barriers in Denver so that marginalized communities would have the resources to do the unthinkable — kind of like how we've been doing ever since.
Amazon
Book dealer Rebecca Romney has always loved reading Jane Austen's work because she appreciates how the author has always centered women, but she always wondered about other writers who dared to do the unthinkable during a time where women weren't taken as seriously.
Though she knew Jane Austen had to have been influenced by them, Romney wanted to know more about them. To her surprise, it was hard to find information on the other great literary minds of during that time that weren't men. So, Romney decided to write Jane Austen's Bookshelf to uncover where these women went by highlighting names like Ann Radcliffe, Elizabeth Inchbald, and Maria Edgeworth.
By the time you finish reading this insightful novel, you may feel compelled to do a bit of research yourself!
Amazon
Rachel Richardson's new poetry collection examines a question we've all asked ourselves: "Can children be raised in a world plagued with climate control issues?" As a mother who's grieving the loss of a dear friend, Richardson lyrically documents the Californian fires via poems filled with despair and other heavy emotions. She also finds a way to connect the world's burning to the injustices and changes women's bodies experience in a lifetime.
Smother is beautifully written and invites us to find ways to answer tough questions while sitting with emotions we'd rather run from.
Visit out Amazone Storefront to read our top fall 2024 book picks before pre-ordering these 2025 finds!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Small kitchens are a minimalist's dream design challenge, mostly because they don't require a major overhaul to look functional and stylish. It's all about making sure you use only the essentials, finding multi-purpose appliances, smart storage, and even taking design cues from larger kitchens. Small kitchens, in fact, are on trend in a sort of cottagecore, European aesthetic. Whatever your style though, there are plenty of small changes you can do to make your small kitchen look spacious. Now let's get cooking.
Let's start with the idea that you just moved in by doing an inventory of your kitchen haul. Pull out the things that you don't use daily and find another place for them (maybe a closet or garage). Declutter and organize: Keep quality items, reduce plastic as much as you can, and find your inner minimalist by keeping the kitchen clutter-free by only storing essential items. Then decide where you could use organizers, dividers, and bins to keep drawers and cabinets tidy.
Counter space is essential in a small kitchen, so shed any non-essentials sitting on top of it. Can you move a microwave you barely use to a small island? Your juicer into a cabinet? Choose smaller or multi-functional appliances to save on counter space, and install cutting boards that can slide over the sink or stove. Foldable or extendable counters that can be tucked away and used only when needed are another great idea for small yet functional spaces.
Think high when designing a small kitchen. Maximize vertical storage if you have tall cabinets. Use hooks or racks for pots, pans, and utensils to free up cabinet space. And add shelves for frequently used items to create an airy feel and make the most of wall space.
Light colors for walls, cabinets, and counters can make the space feel larger and bring more light in. Reflective surfaces like glossy cabinets, glass tiles, or stainless steel can enhance light too.
A small kitchen can really benefit from lighting high and low, especially if you're not graced with a lot of natural light. Look for a fun (but small) pendant, install under-cabinet lighting to brighten up your cooking stations, add wall sconces to add extra charm.
Beyond decluttering and organize, use a consistent style for containers, cookware and organizers to create a cohesive look and feel.
Label containers and shelves to keep everything organized and easy to find. Use clear containers too so you don't inadvertently double up on items. Now enjoy your clean and happy space!
Shop our Amazon storefront for more deals on kitchen and home decor!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Main image via ArtHouse Studio and cottonbro studio
Outer Banks season 4 part 1 gave us everything we had hoped for: action, adventure, and plenty of JJ and Kiara couple goodness. And a return to the OBX allows this senior season to recapture the first season's magic. “There’s all this action and adventure, but it’s really about the bond between the friends,” co-creator Shannon Burke tells Tudum.
After premiering on October 10, the series is still holding the number one spot on the Netflix Top 10. And the good news is we're only halfway through the season! The less-than-great news? We have to wait a little longer before we can watch the second five episodes. Here's everything you need to know about Outer Banks season 4 part 2.
Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix
Yes, Outer Banks season 4 is dropping on Netflix in two parts. While this isn't the same effect as watching episodes weekly, it still provides time for fans to talk about their theories, and even rewatch the first part before the second premieres!
Netflix
Outer Banks season 4 part 2 will premiere on Netflix November 7. Part 1 is available to stream now.
Netflix
Part 2 will have five episodes, meaning season 4 will have 10 episodes total. Here are the Outer Banks season 4 part 2 episode titles!
Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix
The cast of Outer Banks includes Chase Stokes as John B., Madelyn Cline as Sarah, Madison Bailey as Kiara, Jonathan Daviss as Pope, Rudy Pankow as JJ, Carlacia Grant as Cleo, Drew Starkey as Rafe, and Austin North as Topper. We'll also see Fiona Palomo will star as Sofia, J. Anthony Crane as Chandler Groff, Pollyanna McIntosh as Dalia, Brianna Brown as Hollis Robinson, Rigo Sanchez as Lightner, Mia Challis as Ruthie, and Cullen Moss as Shoupe.
Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix
Outer Banks season 4 part 1 ends with Pope and Sarah trapped in a crypt, Cleo and John B. recovering from a fight with Lightener, and JJ reeling from the revelation his birth father is a Kook. So, needless to say, part 2 is starting off with a bang.
Jonathan Daviss promises we'll see “explosions, craziness, Pogue activity" when part 2 drops next month. "A lot going on the cliffhanger, a lot of revelations happening, those things will be continued to be explored," he tells The Hollywood Reporter.
“I think it’s an identity crisis in Part Two," Rudy Pankow says of JJ's discovery. “Like, who am I? Where do I stand? What kind of person am I now? Are my friends gonna judge me? And who do I look up to now? I think that’s how it’s going to play out.”
But Madison Bailey is certain that Kiara will be there for JJ no matter what. “They are two people who are so independent that that’s why they work together and just being themselves and giving the space for the other person to be themselves," she says. "So, as long as there’s never a hold-up on that, then I think they’ll be alright.”
Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix
Fans have been making JJ x Kiara edits to Taylor Swift songs since the show premiered in 2020, and Madison Bailey just revealed the ultimate Jiara song comes from Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poets Department: “‘But Daddy I Love Him,’ that’s literally Kiara,” she tells Elite Daily. “I think Kiara’s just trying to keep up, honestly. She knows her boy is crazy. And does she stand by him? Yes.”
Meanwhile one relationship that has yet to be healed (if it ever will be) is Rafe and Sarah. After their father's death at the end of season 3, Madelyn Cline is convinced Rafe blames Sarah. “I think she feels a lot of guilt," Cline admits to The Hollywood Reporter. "It’s all very heavy and way too heavy for just a single conversation. It’s something that has to happen over time.”
“I think [Rafe's] accepting some responsibility," Drew Starkey adds. "I think he realizes how alone he is, and he wants to mend bridges and build connections again. So yeah, I don’t think he’s ever been able to fully express [himself], and he’s still struggling to express that in a certain way.”
Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix
JJ's biological father is Chandler Groff, who married Wes Genrette's daughter Larissa. That means JJ has been a Kook this whole time — and he's related to Frances Genrette, the man responsible for Blackbeard's death.
Getty Images for Netflix
Outer Banks hasn't been renewed for season 5, but Netflix did just announce the cast is going on a Pogue tour to seven cities. They'll stop in Brazil, Seattle, Washington, Houston, Texas, Chicago, Illinois, Miami, Florida, and Toronto, Canada before stopping in Santa Monica, California for the second immersive Poguelandia event. The cast revealed the show had been renewed for season 4 during last year's event, and we can't wait to see what surprises they have in store this time around!
Stay tuned for the latest Outer Banks season 4 part 2 updates. Stream part 1 on Netflix now.
These beginner Instant Pot recipes are about to save you from your ferocious hunger (and those hefty takeout bills) on busy weeknights. Not only are they great for those evenings when you'd rather be hanging with the fam than spending endless hours in the kitchen, but they'll also come in handy for all of that school year meal planning.
If you own an Instant Pot, you know just how valuable the modern pressure cooker is. It saves you time, money, and tons of effort when preparing everyday dishes. The device can be a bit daunting, though, when figuring out what recipes to make and how to make them. That's where these beginner Instant Pot recipes come in! From quick rice and quinoa, to full-on meals like coq au vin, the 72 recipes below are easy – and have ultra-quick cooking times – all thanks to the Instant Pot.
Brit + Co
You can make all kinds of delicious recipes like rice, soup, and meats like chicken and salmon. In our opinion, the best thing to make in an Instant Pot is something that would take you a long time to make otherwise!
Brit + Co
You don't want to cook fried food because an Instant Pot won't keep the outside crispy the way that an air fryer will. You also want to avoid desserts like cookies because the moisture won't give you the same delicious results that an oven will.
Brit + Co
For your first time using the an Instant Pot, make a super simple, cheap dinner that won't cost you if you make a mistake. We'd recommend a simple chili, chicken noodle soup, or a simple pasta you've made before. That way, you can familiarize yourself with the Instant Pot without worrying too much about the outcome.
Brit + Co
The Instant Pot is great for when you're short on time, whereas a slow cooker might require more attention since you typically cook food all day long in it. Each appliance is relatively easy to use, but if you want to whip up something quick, the Instant Pot might be better than a slow cooker.
Because of the different settings, the results will vary a bit from a slow cooker, but as long as you figure out the recipes that work for you, an Instant Pot can be a great addition to your kitchen.
Brit + Co
Frittatas may be your norm for brunch, but they also make for an easy fridge clean-out dinner. Easy, quick, and tasty? Who wouldn't want to make this beginner Instant Pot recipe? (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
This beginner-friendly soup is nutritious, thanks to eight different vegetables. It receives richness from sweet Italian sausage and lots of cannellini beans. Plus, it’s blissfully Tuscan thanks to juicy San Marzano tomatoes, lemon, and fresh parsley. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Spicy butter chicken makes for a romantic weeknight at-home date night. Serve with plenty of basmati rice for scooping up the addictive sauce, and enough slices of naan to literally wipe your plate clean. (via Brit + Co)
All you need to make rice in your Instant Pot is water, salt, and, well – rice. The most important part of this whole process as far as we're concerned is the fluffing, because getting that fluffy consistency is vital for any and every rice recipe. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
The keys to fluffy, flavorful quinoa: rinse off the pseudo-grain’s bitter coating with water first, then sauté it in the Instant Pot until toasted. After you've done those steps, you can cook it with broth on the gadget’s rice setting and voilà. An easy and delicious meal. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Your favorite veg, eggs, and cream go into individual ramekins, get pressure-cooked, and come out ever-so-slightly soft so you can spread the whole thing over toast. This is seriously one of the best breakfasts ever, and your brunches will never be the same! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
From a frozen state, fish only takes 5 minutes to pressure-cook in the Instant Pot. Yes, you read that right. From there, it’s just about adding the sauce and serving with rice for a complete meal. This is one of our favorite beginner Instant Pot recipes for the health nuts out there. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
We thought meatballs couldn't get much better, but stuff them with cheese, and suddenly they're a whole new meal that we can't get enough of. We love to eat them on top of zoodles, but any kind of noodles will do. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
You'll want to go ahead and bookmark this beginner Instant Pot recipe because chances are, after you make this stew for the first time, you’ll go back again and again. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
This foolproof recipe relies on quinoa to naturally thicken the chili. Not only will it help with the consistency, but it will also leave you feeling fuller. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
All you need is water, salt, and pepper to make this 10-minute chicken breast, which is easy to shred for salads, soups, and more. For extra moisture and flavor, we suggest brining the chicken in salt water overnight and sprinkling in a touch of brown sugar and peppercorns. (via Brit + Co)
While you need the better part of an hour for the normal butternut squash method, this new and improved version only takes 12 minutes. We don't know about you, but we'll be fixing this Instant Pot recipe all the time for a side dish from here on out! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Salmon, sweet potatoes, and broccoli can be steamed up all together in three minutes via the wonders of the Instant Pot. We'll never say no to a dinner this quick *and* this delicious. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
The classic American-Chinese staple is made even quicker when seared and pressure-cooked in the Instant Pot. Add a little bit of sriracha for an unmatched sweet and spicy flavor. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Gussy up this Instant Pot potato soup with all your fave fixings. This is great for any time of day and can include all your favorite loaded baked potato toppings. We always go with bacon, cheese, and chives. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Why make hard-boiled eggs in the Instant Pot? Because of the change in pressure, they’re a lot easier to peel than their traditionally-boiled counterparts, so you can spend more time eating your eggs and less time wrangling with tough shells. From there, chop them up into an egg salad or over toast for a simple dinner. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Our version of Pinterest’s most-pinned beginner Instant Pot recipe cooks tender chuck roast in nutty ghee, which we serve on buttered pretzel rolls with mild cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and leftover juices for dipping. We won't blame you if you're drooling right now. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Pressure-cooker carnitas means you can decide you want tacos at 6 p.m. and sit down with a plate of Instant Pot pork goodness by 6:35 p.m. This flexible recipe has a flavorful base of pork shoulder, aromatic veggies, adobo sauce, and beer, but you can also get creative by adding your own combination of herbs and seasonings. (via Brit + Co)
Culinary Hill
When you're dealing with something that sounds as complicated as pot roast, turning it into an Instant Pot recipe can make things a whole lot easier. We're big fans of this one for its hearty flavors. (via Culinary Hill)
Feel Good Foodie
Spaghetti squash is a nice alternative to pasta if you're trying to incorporate more low-carb recipes into your diet. Plus you aren't dealing with all the extra additives of a typical noodle. The actual cooking only takes around 20 minutes so it makes for a great quick dinner. (via Feel Good Foodie)
Food Network
A complete salmon dinner in under 30 minutes? Yes, please. This amazing crock pot recipe is so simple and includes all sides in one pot. Forget about multiple pots and pans, and enjoy this delectable dish that includes only four simple steps. (via Food Network)
Half Baked Harvest
This famously day-long cooking project gets boiled down to just 30 minutes when you follow this beginner Instant Pot recipe for cold nights. (via Half Baked Harvest)
A Spicy Perspective
Our favorite part of this recipe is the sweet-meets-salty flavor from the soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar. It really can't be beat. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Cozy Cravings
This recipe uses your favorite barbecue sauce, which means that you're almost guaranteed to love it. Serve it with tender Hawaiian rolls or some homemade pretzels. (via Cozy Cravings)
Half Baked Harvest
With some sweet corn, smoky chipotle peppers, cheddar, bacon, and a few other ingredients, you can have a bowl of corn chowder in less than one hour. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Cilantro Parsley
Instant Pot recipes don't have to be savory if you don't want them to be. Granny smith apples, brown sugar, and oats come together the way that you would expect, but the secret to making this delicious recipe is adding caramel syrup as well. (via Cilantro Parsley)
Forks & Foliage
You can eat these yummy greens on their own, or serve them up as a side to another dish for a whole new meal. Whichever method you pick, make sure you don't forget about the caramelized onions. Yum! (via Forks & Foliage)
Feel Good Foodie
Greek yogurt is one of our favorite breakfast foods, and it's also the key to getting your mashed potatoes extra smooth. The great thing about the Instant Pot is that while it's cooking, you can be preparing your other food, or cleaning up the dishes to save yourself time later. (via Feel Good Foodie)
Pinch Of Yum
This vegan chili is full of nuts, grains, and lots of yummy pumpkin. Thanks to the use of canned pumpkin, it doesn't have to be October to make this beginner Instant Pot recipe. (via Pinch Of Yum)
Feel Good Foodie
Need a filling breakfast? Look no further than this Instant Pot oatmeal! Use your favorite milk and coconut oil to make it creamy, and top with all your favorite berries, cinnamon sugar, or go for a banana + peanut butter + chocolate chip combo. Yum! (via Feel Good Foodie)
Hello Little Home
This beginner Instant Pot recipe takes the hard labor and constant attention that traditional risotto requires. Good news is, it's still elegantly tasty for when you want to step dinner up a bit. (via Hello Little Home)
Earthly Provisions
This Instant Pot stew recipe has winter written all over it. The easily-adaptable ingredients, a mix of meat and veggies, will supply you with a full, satisfied belly every time.(via Earthly Provisions)
Averie Cooks
Making refried beans in the Instant Pot means they're not really fried at all, but this recipe still results in the same mushy texture you'd expect from the dish. Dress 'em up with cheese, avocado, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime for extra zest. (via Averie Cooks)
Half Baked Harvest
Perfect for St. Patrick's Day, but really anytime of year, this 20-minute Instant Pot mac and cheese uses Irish cheddar and mixes in Brussels sprouts for extra tetxure. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Steamy Kitchen
Authentic-tasting ramen can be hard to come by. The secret to making it yourself is homemade chicken broth, which the Instant Pot makes possible in under an hour. Sprinkle a few sheets of dried seaweed right on top, and you've got a bowl of the real deal. (via Steamy Kitchen)
Savory Tooth
You’ll never think of chicken as boring once you’ve tasted this Filipino adobo, which is redolent with garlic, vinegar, and pepper. Serve with some raw veggies to add some different temperatures and textures. (via Savory Tooth)
365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking
Dinner gets boring really quickly when you’re serving the same side dishes day after day. With just four ingredients and less than five minutes, you could have these veggies on the table, ready to accompany any main dish. Since all you have to do is throw everything in the pot, this is a beginner Instant Pot recipe for the books. (via 365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking)
Clean Cuisine
This one's for the lazy gals. If your pasta craving has grown too strong for words, make sure to prep this Instant Pot stroganoff ahead-of-time for easy savory snacking. (via Clean Cuisine)
Savory Tooth
Eating healthy is a cinch with a pressure cooker. There are no time excuses, plus you have the advantage of using minimal to zero oil when cooking your protein, like this in this chili-lime salmon. (via Savory Tooth)
A Spicy Perspective
Orzo is great because it tastes exactly like pasta, but it's way easier to eat than pasta. And not only does this recipe taste good, but it looks good, too. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Vikalinka
For a sweeter rice to pair with Indian or Thai dishes, this coconut rice steps in with the perfect flavor. (via Vikalinka)
Wondermom Wannabe
Put that sauté function on your Instant Pot to good use with this Thai-inspired rice bowl. Counteract the soft-cooked texture with crunchy peanuts and raw carrots to serve. We're obsessed. (via Wondermom Wannabe)
Kirbie's Cravings
If this Thai-American dish is a household favorite for delivery nights, then this beginner Instant Pot recipe will be invaluable. It'll be good to your taste buds and your wallet! (via Kirbie’s Cravings)
Savory Tooth
Your beef chuck roast will never come out tough or dry when you make it in the Instant Pot. Thank us later. (via Savory Tooth)
Averie Cooks
Chili + mac and cheese are two of our absolute favorite things, so this combo dish is a no-brainer. Especially since it's quick, too. (via Averie Cooks)
365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking
You don’t have to look much further for your perfect home-cooked meal. These restaurant-worthy Thai noodles are everything you’ve ever dreamed of, and they’ll be ready in just 15 minutes. (via 365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking)
365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking
Say goodbye to powdery boxed macaroni and cheese and take the guesswork out of making it at home with this simple Instant Pot version. They're still just as creamy as your go-to stovetop version. (via 365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking)
Savory Tooth
Thankfully, side dishes like these bacon-y Brussels sprouts aren’t immune to the power of the Instant Pot. Thank goodness! (via Savory Tooth)
No. 2 Pencil
This time- and money-saving one-pot chicken Alfredo uses only the Instant Pot so dirty dishes can be kept to a minimum. That way, it cuts your prep time and your cleanup time. (via No. 2 Pencil)
Wondermom Wannabe
Now that you have an Instant Pot, you’ll finally be able to make chili with the press of a button. The best part? It takes only 10 minutes but still tastes phenomenal. (via Wondermom Wannabe)
The Girl On Bloor
With the Instant Pot, all you need to do is throw handfuls of all the ingredients in, and wait for the magic to happen. This pad thai meal has *all* the magic, trust us. (via The Girl On Bloor)
365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking
Keep your homemade Italian seasoning on hand, and you can make this authentic dish whenever your heart desires. Serve the finished chicken on tortellini with a creamy sauce, diced tomatoes, and basil. (via 365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking)
Sweet Peas and Saffron
This ultra-creamy sweet potato recipe only gets betters when you top it with pecan streusel. We'll take two please. (via Sweet Peas and Saffron)
The First Mess
Every spoonful of this tender chana masala is packed with spicy flavor, all the more reason to try this recipe out. (via The First Mess)
The Roasted Root
Use the slow-cooker setting on your Instant Pot for succulent, beer-braised pork shoulder. Doesn’t it look dang good in the center of that burrito bowl? Top with avocados, black beans, and pico de gallo for a complex flavor + texture + temperature combo. (via The Roasted Root)
Savory Tooth
A healthy dose of dried herbs and garlic powder help brighten up this chicken dish. It takes just 40 minutes to get it from the Instant Pot to your table. (via Savory Tooth)
365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking
In less than 15 minutes, you'll be able to sauté and pressure-cook your way to luscious tomato sauce. You'll never go back to the store-bought stuff again. (via 365 Days of Slow + Pressure Cooking)
The Edgy Veg
When you're a tad under the weather, this beginner Instant Pot recipe comes to the rescue. It gets fully cooked in just 15 minutes! (via The Edgy Veg)
Vikalinka
When simmered in the Instant Pot, cuts of beef become super tender. You'll fall in love with this recipe as the meat falls off the fork! (via Vikalinka)
The Real Food Dietitians
Make this Instant Pot bone broth to add to cozy soups and stews, or dip it on its own to reap the nutritional benefits. (via The Real Food Dietitians)
Half Baked Harvest
Italian chicken sausage, potatoes, and kale are simmered in a lemony pesto broth that gets a squeeze of lemon and a touch of Parmesan and cream at the end. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Girl and The Kitchen
Sorry, Grandma, this stuffed cabbage is just as good as yours, but way easier. Bring it to all your family gatherings from here on out! (via Girl and The Kitchen)
Kirbie's Cravings
The Instant Pot is basically a takeout food-lover’s best friend. Enjoy cooking everything from perfectly tender noodles to veggies and cut your spending down. (via Kirbie’s Cravings)
Sidewalk Shoes
When all else fails, lettuce wraps are a great last-minute dinner that you can use to clean out your fridge. They also make for a great alternative to bread if you're on a low-carb or gluten-free diet. These happen to be full of nutrients and get a surprise texture from wheat berries. (via Sidewalk Shoes)
The Seasoned Mom
At once light and hearty, chicken tortilla soup is the meal you’ll crave when you want some comfort food that won’t make you need a nap afterward. (via The Seasoned Mom)
Vegetarian Gastronomy
This cauliflower and potatoes soup tastes creamy but has none of the dairy of the usual recipe. Delicious lentils give this robust recipe plenty of texture and protein and a little bit of lemon juice makes the flavors really pop. (via Vegetarian Gastronomy)
Whole And Heavenly Oven
Your next Italian night is on us. This Instant Pot makes pasta easy-breezy! (via Whole And Heavenly Oven)
Half Baked Harvest
Beer-braised pork is shredded and broiled in this easy carnitas recipe. Stuff into warm tortillas and top with peach salsa for 30-minute tacos. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Well Plated
Serve this comforting curry with rice for an easy and absolutely delicious dinner, no matter which night of the week it is. (via Well Plated)
Two Peas and Their Pod
This dairy-free recipe is the definition of healthy, comfort food. It tastes amazing and won't cause any flare-ups for anyone who has dietary restrictions. (via Two Peas and Their Pod)
Wholesomelicious
Add some peppers and onions to make this Greek chicken better than ever. You can cook them all together in the Instant Pot, or add them to the plate raw. Either way, you're in for a treat. (via Wholesomelicious)
Which instant pot recipes will you be making this week? Let us know in the comments and follow us on Pinterest for more food content.
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Lead image via Two Peas & Their Pod.
This post has been updated.