Barefoot Contessa Season 22 Episode 6 Cooking for Jeffrey: Back to School Surprise

In this episode of Barefoot Contessa, titled "Cooking for Jeffrey: Back to School Surprise," Ina Garten prepares a special surprise for her husband, Jeffrey, who is returning from a business trip. The surprise revolves around a menu that reflects Jeffrey's love of classic comfort foods while also embracing the season of fall.

Ina starts by showing viewers how to make a creamy tomato bisque, which she serves with grilled cheese croutons. She emphasizes the importance of using high-quality canned tomatoes, as they are the foundation of the soup. She also offers tips for making perfect grilled cheese sandwiches, including using onion bread and adding a touch of Dijon mustard.

Next, Ina turns her attention to one of Jeffrey's favorite meals - meatloaf. She shares her recipe for individual-sized meatloaves, made with ground turkey, sausage, and a variety of seasonings. Ina emphasizes the importance of using a meat thermometer to ensure the meat is fully cooked, and she tops the mini meatloaves with a tangy glaze before baking.

To round out the meal, Ina makes a roasted vegetable side dish. She chooses carrots, parsnips, and butternut squash, which she tosses with olive oil and fresh thyme before roasting in the oven. She also shares her technique for making perfectly crispy roasted potatoes, which are lightly seasoned with herbs and garlic.

Throughout the episode, Ina shares personal anecdotes about her marriage to Jeffrey and the role that cooking has played in their relationship. She also offers tips for making cooking a pleasurable experience, including the importance of having a well-stocked pantry and taking time to savor the preparation process.

The episode concludes with Jeffrey returning home to find a beautifully set table and a delicious meal waiting for him. Ina and Jeffrey share a warm embrace, and Ina jokes that she hopes he will enjoy the surprise she has prepared for him.

Overall, "Cooking for Jeffrey: Back to School Surprise" offers a glimpse into the loving and playful relationship between Ina and Jeffrey, while also providing viewers with practical tips for creating a comforting and delicious fall meal.