Navigating the Costco LG Range Recall: Delicious Recipes to Cook While You Wait (and Alternatives!)

In February, a significant recall of LG ranges sold at Costco and other retailers left many home cooks scrambling. If you’re among those affected by the LG range recall, you’re likely wondering what to cook while you await a repair or replacement. This article provides delicious recipe ideas that don’t rely on a traditional oven, offering tasty solutions to keep your mealtimes exciting during this inconvenient period. We’ll also explore alternative cooking methods and address some frequently asked questions about the recall itself.

Understanding the Costco LG Range Recall

The LG range recall, announced in February, involved specific models of LG ranges due to potential overheating issues that posed a fire hazard. These ranges were primarily sold at Costco and other major appliance retailers. It’s crucial to check if your range’s model number is included in the recall list. You can do this by visiting the LG website or contacting LG directly. They will ask for your model and serial number, which are usually found on a sticker inside the oven door or on the back of the range.

If your range is affected, LG is offering free repairs or, in some cases, replacements. However, these processes can take time, leaving you without your primary cooking appliance. That’s where these alternative recipe ideas come in!

Embrace Alternative Cooking Methods

Before diving into specific recipes, let’s explore some alternative cooking methods you can use while your LG range is out of commission:

* **Slow Cooker/Crock-Pot:** The slow cooker is your best friend during a range recall! It’s perfect for hands-off cooking of soups, stews, chili, roasts, and even desserts.
* **Instant Pot:** This multi-cooker can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, and even make yogurt. It’s a versatile appliance that can replace many oven functions.
* **Air Fryer:** The air fryer provides crispy, oven-like results without the need for a full-sized oven. It’s excellent for fries, chicken wings, vegetables, and smaller baked goods.
* **Toaster Oven:** A toaster oven can handle many tasks that a regular oven does, especially for smaller portions. Perfect for toast, reheating pizza, or baking small batches of cookies.
* **Microwave Oven:** While not ideal for all types of cooking, the microwave can be used for reheating, steaming vegetables, and cooking quick meals.
* **Outdoor Grill:** If the weather permits, fire up the grill! Grilling is a fantastic way to cook meat, vegetables, and even pizza.
* **Portable Induction Cooktop:** These single-burner cooktops are a safe and efficient alternative to traditional stovetops, allowing you to boil, simmer, and fry with ease.

Delicious Recipes to Cook Without Your Range

Here are a variety of recipes tailored to different cooking appliances, ensuring you can still enjoy delicious and satisfying meals while waiting for your range repair or replacement.

Slow Cooker Recipes

* **Slow Cooker Pulled Pork:** This is a classic slow cooker recipe that’s incredibly versatile.

* **Ingredients:**
* 3-4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite)
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1 tbsp smoked paprika
* 1 tsp chili powder
* 1/2 tsp cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Hamburger buns or rolls
* Coleslaw (optional)
* **Instructions:**
1. Pat the pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned. This step is optional but adds great flavor.
3. Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Place the seared pork shoulder on top of the onion and garlic.
5. In a bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin.
6. Pour the sauce over the pork shoulder.
7. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
8. Remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
9. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
10. Serve on hamburger buns or rolls with coleslaw, if desired.

* **Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup:** A comforting and easy soup perfect for a chilly day.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1.5-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
* 8 cups chicken broth
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup egg noodles
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
* **Instructions:**
1. Place the chicken, chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and rosemary in the slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
5. Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on high for 20-30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

* **Slow Cooker Beef Stew:** A hearty and flavorful stew packed with vegetables.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1.5-2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups beef broth
* 1 cup red wine (optional)
* 1 tbsp tomato paste
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* 1 bay leaf
* 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1 cup frozen peas
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Instructions:**
1. Pat the beef stew meat dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef stew meat in batches until browned on all sides. This step is optional but adds great flavor.
3. Place the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Place the seared beef stew meat on top of the vegetables.
5. In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf.
6. Pour the sauce over the beef stew meat and vegetables.
7. Add the potatoes to the slow cooker.
8. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the beef and potatoes are tender.
9. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
10. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot.

Instant Pot Recipes

* **Instant Pot Chicken and Rice:** A one-pot wonder that’s both quick and easy.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup long-grain rice
* 2 cups chicken broth
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
* **Instructions:**
1. Turn the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Heat olive oil in the pot.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot.
6. Close the lid and seal the Instant Pot. Cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 5 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
8. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and let them heat through for a few minutes.
9. Serve hot.

* **Instant Pot Mac and Cheese:** A creamy and comforting classic made in minutes.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 lb elbow macaroni
* 4 cups water
* 1 tsp salt
* 4 tbsp butter
* 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
* **Instructions:**
1. Add the macaroni, water, and salt to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and seal the Instant Pot. Cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 4 minutes.
3. Quick release the pressure.
4. Stir in the butter, evaporated milk, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese (if using), pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
5. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Serve hot.

* **Instant Pot Chili:** A flavorful and hearty chili perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 tbsp chili powder
* 1 tsp cumin
* 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
* 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions for garnish (optional)
* **Instructions:**
1. Turn the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Heat olive oil in the pot.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Drain any excess grease.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Close the lid and seal the Instant Pot. Cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 25 minutes.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
9. Stir well and serve hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions, if desired.

Air Fryer Recipes

* **Air Fryer Chicken Wings:** Crispy and delicious chicken wings without the mess of deep frying.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 lbs chicken wings
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 tsp garlic powder
* 1 tsp paprika
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* Your favorite wing sauce (e.g., buffalo, BBQ, honey garlic)
* **Instructions:**
1. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
4. Place the chicken wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.
6. Toss the cooked wings with your favorite wing sauce.
7. Serve immediately.

* **Air Fryer French Fries:** Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* **Instructions:**
1. Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
2. Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.
6. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

* **Air Fryer Salmon:** A healthy and delicious way to cook salmon quickly.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 (4-6 oz) salmon fillets, skin on or off
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 tsp lemon juice
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 1/4 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
* **Instructions:**
1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture over the salmon fillets.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.
6. Cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired. Serve immediately.

Toaster Oven Recipes

* **Toaster Oven Pizza:** A quick and easy way to satisfy your pizza cravings.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 pre-made pizza crust or naan bread
* 1/4 cup pizza sauce
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* Your favorite pizza toppings (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, peppers)
* **Instructions:**
1. Preheat the toaster oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the pizza crust or naan bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add your favorite pizza toppings.
6. Bake in the toaster oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
7. Slice and serve immediately.

* **Toaster Oven Grilled Cheese:** A classic comfort food made in a toaster oven.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 slices of bread
* 1 tbsp butter, softened
* 2 slices of cheese (e.g., cheddar, American, provolone)
* **Instructions:**
1. Spread butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Place the cheese slices on top of the bread.
4. Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
5. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Bake in the toaster oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
7. Slice in half and serve immediately.

* **Toaster Oven Roasted Vegetables:** A healthy and delicious side dish.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1 cup cauliflower florets
* 1/2 cup chopped carrots
* 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 1/4 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* **Instructions:**
1. Preheat the toaster oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake in the toaster oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.
5. Serve immediately.

Microwave Oven Recipes

* **Microwave Mug Cake:** A single-serving cake that’s ready in minutes.

* **Ingredients:**
* 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
* 4 tbsp sugar
* 2 tbsp cocoa powder
* 1/4 tsp baking powder
* 3 tbsp milk
* 1 tbsp vegetable oil
* 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
* **Instructions:**
1. In a large mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
2. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
3. Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is cooked through.
4. Let cool slightly before serving.

* **Microwave Oatmeal:** A quick and healthy breakfast option.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1 cup water or milk
* Pinch of salt
* Your favorite toppings (e.g., fruit, nuts, honey, cinnamon)
* **Instructions:**
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the oats, water or milk, and salt.
2. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the oatmeal is cooked through and has reached your desired consistency.
3. Stir in your favorite toppings and serve immediately.

* **Microwave Steamed Vegetables:** A quick and easy way to cook vegetables.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 cup chopped vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, green beans)
* 1-2 tbsp water
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Instructions:**
1. Place the chopped vegetables in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add the water.
3. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (vented).
4. Microwave on high for 2-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Outdoor Grill Recipes

* **Grilled Chicken:** A flavorful and healthy option for the grill.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tbsp lemon juice
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tsp dried oregano
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* **Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve immediately.

* **Grilled Burgers:** A classic summer grilling staple.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1/2 onion, finely chopped
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* Hamburger buns
* Your favorite burger toppings (e.g., lettuce, tomato, cheese, ketchup, mustard)
* **Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Form the mixture into 4 patties.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Grill the burgers for 4-6 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your desired doneness.
5. Place the burgers on hamburger buns and top with your favorite toppings.
6. Serve immediately.

* **Grilled Vegetables:** A healthy and delicious side dish for the grill.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 zucchini, sliced
* 1 bell pepper, sliced
* 1 onion, sliced
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 1/4 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* **Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
3. Place the vegetables on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred, turning occasionally.
4. Serve immediately.

Portable Induction Cooktop Recipes

* **Pasta with Marinara Sauce:** A simple and satisfying meal.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 lb pasta (spaghetti, penne, etc.)
* 6 quarts water
* 1 tbsp salt
* 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
* Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
* **Instructions:**
1. Bring the water to a boil on the induction cooktop.
2. Add the salt and pasta.
3. Cook according to package directions until al dente.
4. While the pasta is cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a separate saucepan on the induction cooktop.
5. Drain the pasta and toss with the marinara sauce.
6. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

* **Scrambled Eggs:** A quick and easy breakfast.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 eggs
* 1 tbsp milk or cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tbsp butter
* **Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
2. Melt the butter in a skillet on the induction cooktop over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet.
4. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set to your desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately.

* **Soup:** A comforting and versatile option.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
* 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Cooked pasta (optional)
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
* **Instructions**
1. Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat on the induction cooktop.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes and Italian herbs.
5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, add cooked pasta during the last few minutes of cooking.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions About the LG Range Recall

* **How do I know if my LG range is part of the recall?**
* Check the LG website or contact LG directly with your model and serial number, which can be found inside the oven door or on the back of the range.

* **What should I do if my range is recalled?**
* Stop using the range immediately and contact LG to schedule a free repair or replacement.

* **How long will it take to get my range repaired or replaced?**
* The timeline can vary depending on the availability of parts and technicians in your area. LG will provide you with an estimated timeframe when you contact them.

* **Will LG provide a temporary cooking appliance while I wait?**
* LG may offer loaner appliances in some cases, but it’s best to confirm this directly with them.

* **What if I bought my LG range at Costco?**
* Costco may be able to provide some assistance or information regarding the recall process. Contact your local Costco or visit their website.

Conclusion

The LG range recall may be an inconvenience, but it doesn’t have to derail your cooking routine. By embracing alternative cooking methods and trying out these delicious recipes, you can continue to enjoy home-cooked meals while you wait for your range to be repaired or replaced. Remember to prioritize safety and follow LG’s instructions regarding the recall. Happy cooking!