Hello Campers! Love is in the air at Volunteer Park Campground, and February is the perfect time to embrace sweet moments and warm connections. With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, why not plan a cozy getaway or a memorable camping trip with your favorite people? Whether it’s a romantic retreat or a fun-filled escape, we’ve got everything you need to make it special!
Ground Hog’s Day:
▢½ pound ground beef
▢½ pound sweet Italian sausage
▢1 yellow onion
▢3 cloves garlic
▢4 Tablespoons tomato paste
▢1 teaspoon dried oregano
▢1 teaspoon dried Basil
▢1 teaspoon sugar
▢1 teaspoon hot sauce, optional but recommended
▢½ teaspoon salt
▢¼ teaspoon Pepper
▢1 pinch red pepper flakes
▢5 cups chicken broth
▢14.5 oz. crushed tomatoes
▢14.5 oz. diced tomatoes, undrained
▢1 bay leaf
▢6 lasagna noodles
- In a 4-quart soup pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef and sausage.
- Add the onions halfway through cooking and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease, then stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Mix in 4 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, and hot sauce, along with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, undrained diced tomatoes, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Pro Tip: If you have a Parmesan cheese rind, add it to the soup while it simmers for extra depth of flavor.
- Let the soup gently bubble while bringing a separate pot of salted water to a boil for the lasagna noodles. Before adding the noodles, taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed—it will become more concentrated as it simmers.
- Break the lasagna noodles in half and cook according to package instructions. Drain and cut them into smaller strips, then transfer them to the soup.
- Alternatively, add noodles directly to serving bowls instead of the soup pot. If planning for leftovers or freezing, it’s best to cook fresh noodles for each serving to maintain texture.
Spring is just around the corner, which means it’s time to shake off the winter chill and get your RV or camper road-ready for the season ahead! Here are a few key steps to ensure a smooth start to your spring adventures:
✅ Inspect for Winter Wear & Tear – Check for leaks, cracks, or rodent damage, especially around seals, vents, and wiring.
✅ Give It a Deep Clean – Dust, vacuum, and wipe down all surfaces inside. Wash the exterior and check for any damage to the roof or siding.
✅ Test Your Systems – Hook up your battery, check your propane connections, and run your appliances to make sure everything is functioning properly.
✅ Flush & Sanitize the Water System – If you winterized your RV, now’s the time to flush out antifreeze and sanitize your freshwater tank.
✅ Check Tires & Brakes – Look for cracks, low tread, or underinflation. Don’t forget to test the brakes and wheel bearings!
✅ Restock Essentials – Refill your first-aid kit, restock kitchen and bathroom supplies, and make sure you have all necessary tools and gear for the road.
Once everything is in tip-top shape, you’re ready to hit the road and enjoy the great outdoors. And if you’re looking for the perfect spring getaway, Volunteer Park and Campground is ready to welcome you for a relaxing stay! Book your spot today!
We can’t wait to welcome you this season at Volunteer Park & Campground! Whether you’re enjoying the cozy warmth of a campfire, cooking up some comfort food, or exploring the beautiful sights of Knoxville, we hope your February is filled with adventure and great memories. And as spring draws near, get ready for more outdoor fun! Happy Camping!
Recent Comments