I’m always inspired by those who break from the norm and create a creative journey of their own—like Tieghan Gerard, creator of Half-Baked Harvest. I first met Tieghan in 2017, and over the years, he has created a brand and business that truly reflects his passion. From his converted barn in the mountains of Colorado, Tieghan creates the kind of recipes that feel like a warm hug—sweet, comforting, and impossibly delicious. She wears many hats, playing the role of recipe developer, stylist, photographer, and storyteller, sharing new recipes almost every day. This hands-on approach has earned her a devoted audience of millions who turn to Half-Baked Harvest and her best-selling cookbooks for everyday dinners.
Just before the launch of her fourth cookbook, Quick & Cozy, Tieghan came to Austin, where we hosted a dinner party in my backyard. The evening was magical—friends gathered around a candlelit table, sharing dishes from her upcoming book that felt joyous and light.
In the matter of the holidays of Camille styles EDITshared my heartfelt conversation with Tieghan about his journey—from building his career to dealing with social media drama. Be sure to check out the full piece if you haven’t already, and read on for all of Tieghan’s tips for hosting a comfortable vacation.
At home in Colorado
First things first: what informs your diet?
Simplicity is key—but make it beautiful and fun.
What does a typical working day look like for you?
It depends. When I travel, I do interviews, take pictures, and greet each other. I’m multitasking, taking phone calls while doing hair and makeup at the event. It’s good, it’s fun, it’s busy. It’s a completely different side of the business.
When I was home, my day wasn’t much different. I am in the kitchen and the sun is setting. I cook, explore, photograph and videotape. I am very focused on creating content, so I try not to book calls during this time so I can stay focused on creating. At night, I do emails, write blog posts, and edit photos.
What is your must-have cooking tool and why?
This is kind of funny, but cookie scoop is really good. I use it for many things—rolling meatballs, cookies, muffin batter and cake batter.
Everyone needs a good cast iron skillet. It’s easier to clean and better for you.
Tell us a few things you’ll always find in your fridge?
Goat milk, different cheeses, jalapenos, avocados, and lots of fresh produce.
Your go-to weeknight meal to eat at home?
I’m a crispy taco girl. Like, I love a taco, beef, a simple crispy taco, nothing fancy with cheddar cheese. Good, guys. It’s very good.
How Tieghan Hosted a Party
What are your three favorite table products?
- Candles. Each table is made better with candles – it creates such a comforting atmosphere. If you are making tall candles, use just a few, and if you are making short candles, use lots.
- A beautiful centerpiece bowl. Fill it with seasonal produce, like pomegranates and persimmons in the fall, or gather acorns outside, whatever you can get your hands on.
- Something to eat. I like to use food as decoration—I usually set the table lightly, but I like to set a nice cheese board or serve a platter with food to make it feel fuller.
Apple Vanilla Chai Hot Toddy
Baked Honeyed Brie
Garlic Mushroom Chicken Skillet
Winter Salad with Maple Candied Walnuts
Lemon Pesto Orzo
Classic Tiramisu
What does a good circle look like to you?
The fire is roaring and soft music is playing in the background. There are candles lit everywhere, there are flowers, and the smell of really good food slowly cooking in the oven. You are truly rested and comforted—and you must have candles.
Great dinner party playlists include:
Cool and soothing music. Classical is good. My grandmother used to play Frank Sinatra, and I love to turn on his music at Christmas.
Your signature dishes for parties?
There are many great recipes to collect in my new cookbook, Fast & Comfortable. This brisket recipe is amazing when assembled and would be perfect for a Christmas Eve dinner. Also, meatballs on the cover. If you don’t eat red meat, you can substitute ground chicken—I’ve provided those changes in the book, so people can easily adapt the recipes to their needs or taste buds. Everything in the book is very easy, comfortable, and quick.
What is your team’s no-stress rule to live by?
Set the table for dinner the night before. Create a menu that you can make ahead—a crock pot or slow cooker recipe is best. Keep it simple.
Dreaming of dinner guests?
Victoria Beckham – currently I love her designs. And of course, you might as well invite David, right? I also want to meet their son in Brooklyn-he just launched a new brand of hot sauce that is very interesting. So I guess I’m inviting the whole Beckham family!
Fill in the blanks:
A complete diet should: feel comforted by everyone.
It’s not a dinner party without: candles.
Every cook should know that: make a cheeseboard.