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Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Freelance Writer

Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner is a writer and recipe developer based in New York City. She regularly contributes to The New York Times, Forbes, Food & Wine, Real Simple, Martha Stewart Living, and more publications. She holds a BA in Creative Writing from Columbia University.
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Latest from Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Extra Lean Ground Beef

Cooking Frozen Ground Beef? Make Sure You Do This

Forgetting to defrost your dinner protein isn’t a nonstarter, but there are ways to make sure you cook it right.

A bowl of white bean soup in a rich tomato-based broth is topped with fresh herbs and served on a red-and-white checkered tablecloth.

Most People Skip This Step When Cooking Beans—But Shouldn't

Experts explain how to improve texture, cut cook time, and make dinner a whole lot easier.

Two green baskets filled with fresh strawberries on a pink surface.

When Did Strawberries Get So Complicated?

From pineberries to Omakase berries, here’s which ones actually taste best.

bowl of sweetpotato ragout served with rice

This Is the Best Way to Cook Your Rice If You Want More Protein

Cooking it in broth instead of water is a simple way to turn a basic side into something more satisfying.

A hearty bean-based soup highlights how to use leftover bean liquid in everyday cooking instead of throwing it away. This often-discarded ingredient adds flavor, richness and body to dishes, making it a simple way to reduce waste while enhancing recipes.

The Surprising Pantry Ingredient You’re Not Using Enough

Often discarded, bean liquid can make soups richer, sauces silkier, and even desserts fluffier.

Crispy bacon cooks in a cast-iron skillet, leaving behind flavorful bacon grease—a kitchen staple many home cooks save and reuse. Experts say properly strained and stored bacon fat can enhance dishes like eggs, vegetables and roasted meats with a rich, smoky flavor.

How to Save Bacon Fat—and the Best Ways to Cook With It

Fat is flavor, and you can have it for free

close up of a kids hand picking a cashew nut from a bowl with pink background

This Is the Only Costco Bulk Item I Always Buy

Most bulk buys aren’t worth the space—but this one earns it.

Tostadas with shredded chicken, guacamole, and jalapeños

How to Make Leftovers Better With One $3 Pantry Staple

This simple, crunchy upgrade makes leftovers taste like a brand-new meal.

Plate of grilled chicken with a smartphone displaying a similar dish on Instagram.

Why Some Viral Recipes Fail—and How to Avoid Them

Everything looks delicious, but you can’t taste through a screen

Jar containing bread crumbs with a checkered lid.

How to Make Flavorful Croutons With Just 2 Ingredients

Upgrade any salad and cut down on food waste.

Flatbread topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, eggs, and basil.

How to Make the Best Matzo Pizza During Passover

It’s a classic for a reason, but there’s always a way to upgrade matzo pizza

Soy buttered noodles

This One (Free!) Ingredient Is the Secret to Better Buttered Noodles

A soy sauce packet transforms this simple dish—no extra effort required.

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