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Kate Merker

Chief Food Director

Kate Merker (she/her) is the Chief Food Director of the Hearst Lifestyle Group, overseeing the team that produces food content for several Hearst titles, including Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Prevention, Woman’s Day and Country Living. She has clocked nearly 20 years of experience in food media and before that, worked at some of New York City’s finest restaurants. 

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Latest from Kate Merker

roasted root vegetables on a sheet tray

Test Kitchen Pros Swear by This One Step for Perfectly Roasted Vegetables

It’s not about adding more oil or opting for higher heat—it’s about starting on a hot pan.

hands reaching into platter of nachos with chana masala and melted cheese

Chana Masala Nachos

The ultimate crowd-pleaser.

1 hr 10 mins
two bowls of soup with beans

The One Pantry Staple That Instantly Makes Soup More Satisfying (and Adds Protein)

Here’s how to turn soup into a full-on, protein- and fiber-rich meal.

cranberry citrus roasted salmon

Cranberry-Citrus Roasted Salmon

A holiday main that's light, bright, and gorgeous!

1 hr 25 mins
orange cinnamon fritters. snacks. sweets and confections.

Orange-Cinnamon Fritters

Fried dough tossed in a spiced sugar coating? Yes please.

50 mins
skillet latke. dinnertime meals.

Skillet Latke

All the crispy edges—no need to fry batch after batch.

45 mins
red velvet cake

Red Velvet Cake

One quick step unlocks bakery-level results.

3 hrs
high angle view of food in plate on table,united states,usa

Our Staff's Favorite Thanksgiving Side Comes Straight From a Box

We asked which dish makes Thanksgiving feel complete—and the answer may surprise you.

easons you shouldnt put your smoker away this fall

5 Reasons You Shouldn't Put Your Pellet Grill Away This Winter

Pellet grills are great for hands-off cooking.

pecan pie brownies on a platter

The Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Dessert I Rely On Every Year—and No One Knows It Starts With a Boxed Mix

This gluten-free, shockingly easy brownie mash-up tastes completely homemade—and you can make it ahead.

how to spatchcock a chicken like a pro

How to Spatchcock a Chicken Like a Pro — It’s Easier Than You Think

These step-by-step instructions make it a breeze.

1 hr
a whole golden roasted thanksgiving turkey on a white platter

Butter, Brine, or Both? Here’s Exactly How to Season Your Thanksgiving Turkey

The Test Kitchen’s ultimate guide to turkey seasoning—simple steps for juicier meat, crispier skin, and unforgettable flavor.

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