KRISTIE SCHLEY

Grand Prize Winner

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE THESE DELICIOUS SANDWICHES?

I used to live in South Florida, and Cuban sandwiches were a staple—you could even find them in the convenience stores next to the hot dogs. So they’ve always been a favorite of mine.

WHAT OTHER DISHES DO YOU MAKE IN YOUR SLOW COOKER?

I’m almost embarrassed to say that I own many slow cookers in different shapes and sizes and use them all the time. Our favorite dishes are lasagna, cheesy chicken potatoes and definitely tacos.

HAVE YOU ENTERED AND WON A COOKING CONTEST BEFORE?

I have entered a few cooking contests and have won just a couple of times. This particular contest was right in my wheelhouse because it involves the slow cooker and one of the few dishes that my family loves that aren’t too elaborate or spicy.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE DISHES TO COOK IN THE FALL?

Any kind of potato. Mashed, scalloped, baked or fried, my family loves them all. They’re always hearty, stick-to-yourribs dishes that remind me of the holidays.

ANY SPECIAL SLOW COOKER TIPS TO SHARE?

I freeze my meals in liners inside the slow cooker stone. When I’m ready to cook, I just drop the liner into my slow cooker and it already fits. I don’t even have to worry about defrosting!