Fathers, we salute you! It's that time of year again, time to take a moment and let dad know that you appreciate all he does. And as I figure it, what better way to do dad a solid than by paying homage to that manliest of meal makers.... meat!

For some added perspective, I turned to a young family friend who is hands-down one of the most enthusiastic meat eaters in my life. "Meat is only the greatest product ever to be ingested by man," he said wryly. "It is what manicures, pedicures, and bubble baths are to women. Would you care for extra bacon with your breakfast? Do you want extra ham on your sandwich? Can I get you the 8 oz steak, rather than the 6 oz? The answer to all of these: absolutely."

With that response, I knew I was on the right track... meat is definitely on our menu this Father's Day!

It's an absolute, rock solid fact that you'll always win with Ashley Muller's recipe for Bold Tastin' Grilled Steak. (After all, when in doubt go bold, right?) With a beautifully rich marinade comprised of 9 common herbs and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, this steak packs a big flavor punch with just a smidge of effort. "This was a favorite when I was growing up!" exclaims Ashley. “We rarely got to have meat but when we did, we sure loved the bold flavors this marinade brought out!!"

For the ultimate comforting menu counterpart, toss together Ellen Curry's Cheesy Mashed Potato Bake. This creamy, dreamy casserole brings all the great flavor - and memories - of traditional potato pancakes to a one-pot recipe. Combine mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs and your favorite cheeses, and you're on your way. "I did this instead of making individual potato cakes and frying them," says Ellen, who utilizes leftover mashed potatoes as an easy shortcut. This has fast become a favorite in our house, each satisfying bite perfectly complementing the grilled steak. Simple as simple can be, but oh-so tasty!

What goes well with meat and potatoes? How about dad's favorite cocktail?! "In his younger years, my dad William was a bartender and he created it," explains Sacramento's Kathleen Ralston. She has carried on the tradition of her dad's sweetly refreshing creation. Made from brandy and triple sec, this creamy drink is the perfect punctuation to a warm day. "It never had a name," she says, "but he said it was similar to a side car [so we named it after him.] It's pretty darned good!"

And for dessert it's got to be Linda Isaacs' Guinness Chocolate Cake. Combining the best of beer and chocolate, moms and dads the world over are falling for this uber rich bundt cake. Like so many of our favorite cakes, Linda's utilizes sour cream as its secret weapon. The result is an extra moist slice of love on a plate. A must try!

The happiest of wishes and dishes go out to all you fathers. Now how about that 8-ounce? You deserve it.