I’m always inspired by people who break away from traditional paths and forge their own creative journeys, like Tieghan Gerard, author of Half-Baked Harvest. I first met Tieghan in 2017, and since then she has built a brand and business that truly reflects her passion. In a converted barn in the Colorado Mountains, Teagan crafts recipes that are like a warm hug that are homely, comforting, and incredibly delicious. She wears various hats as a recipe developer, stylist, photographer, and storyteller, and shares new recipes almost every day. This hands-on approach has earned her a loyal audience of millions who rely on Half-Baked Harvest and her best-selling cookbook for everyday dinner tips.
Just before the release of her fourth cookbook, Quick & Cozy, Teagan came to Austin and co-hosted a holiday dinner party in my backyard. That night was magical. Friends gathered around a candlelit table to share dishes from her upcoming book. It felt celebratory yet lighthearted.
In the Holiday issue of Camille Styles EDIT, we shared a heartfelt conversation with Tegan about her journey so far, from building a career to facing social media drama. If you haven’t read the full article yet, be sure to check it out and read all of Tieghan’s tips for a great holiday.
at home in colorado
First of all, what determines your approach to food?
It is important to be simple, but let’s make it beautiful and delicious.
What does a typical work day look like for you?
it depends. During the trip, we conduct interviews, photo shoots, and handshake events. I multitask by answering the phone while getting hair and makeup done for an event. It’s great, it’s exciting, it’s busy. It’s a completely different side of the business.
Being at home makes my day even more of the opposite. I’m in the kitchen from sunrise to sunset. I cook, test, take photos, and record videos. I’m very focused on creating content, so I try not to schedule calls during this time so I can focus on creating. At night, I email, write blog posts, and edit photos.
What is your must-have cookware and why?
It’s kind of funny, but Cookie Scoop is really great. I use it for a variety of purposes, including scooping meatballs, cookies, muffin batter, and cupcake batter.
Everyone also needs a good quality cast iron skillet. It’s easier to clean, which is better.
What are some things that are always in your fridge?
Goat milk, various cheeses, jalapenos, avocado, and lots of fresh produce.
What is your typical weeknight meal at home?
I’m a crispy taco girl. For example, I love tacos, beef, very simple, crispy tacos with cheddar cheese and nothing fancy. That was great, everyone. It’s really good.
How Taigan hosts a party
What are three products you love at your table?
candle. Candles enhance any table and create a very cozy environment. If you use tall taper candles, you can use just a few, and if you use low candles, you can use many. A cute bowl perfect for a centerpiece. In the fall, you can pack seasonal produce like pomegranates and persimmons, or collect acorns that are available outdoors. Groceries. I love using food as decoration. Usually the table setting is minimal, but I love to set it up with a beautiful cheese board or a platter of food to make it feel rich.
apple vanilla chai hot toddy
Baked honey brie
garlic mushroom chicken skillet
Maple candied walnut winter salad
lemon pesto ortho
classic tiramisu
What does a great gathering look like to you?
A fire roars and light music plays in the background. There are candles lit, flowers everywhere, and the smell of really delicious food slowly cooking in the oven. Just really relaxing and comforting, candles are a must.
A great playlist for a dinner party includes:
Very calm and relaxing music. Classical is wonderful. My grandmother always played Frank Sinatra. I love playing his music at Christmas.
Do you have a signature dish for gatherings?
My new cookbook, Quick & Cozy, is full of great recipes. This brisket recipe is perfect for gatherings and perfect for Christmas Eve dinner. Also, the meatballs on the cover. If you don’t eat red meat, you can replace it with ground chicken. I introduced those substitutions in the book so people can easily adjust the recipes to suit their own needs and tastes. Everything in this book is very simple, comfortable, and ready to use.
What are the rules for a stress-free party?
Set the dinner table the night before. Create a menu that you can make in advance. Clay pot or slow cooker recipes are best. Keep it simple.
Who is your dream dinner guest?
Victoria Beckham – Now I love her designs. Also, why not invite David? I’d also like to meet their son Brooklyn. He just launched a new hot sauce brand that’s really interesting. So, we’re going to invite the whole Beckham family!
Fill in the blanks:
The perfect meal should feel good to everyone.
It wouldn’t be a dinner party without candles.
Every cook should know how to make a cheese board.
