Amy Boyd began her post-collegiate career in the food service industry as the catering director at La Paz in Crestline Village. She developed such a passion for food, events and catering that when she tried to change industries to utilize her college degree, she actually only lasted for a few years. Since then, she has run the service industry gamut from selling wine to being a catering director to being an event planner for some great restaurants and venues such as Rogue Tavern and The Tutwiler Hotel. Her current endeavor, Queen Mommy Casseroles, began during the COVID-19 pandemic as she cooked meals for families in need of healthy options during a time where many businesses were closed. Here, Amy provides an insider’s scoop into her business both a “foodie” and entrepreneur.

Where did your passion for cooking originate, and to whom do you draw your inspiration?

My mom taught me how to cook. Ever since I can remember, she has always been cooking and trying new recipes, and I’m pretty sure it rubbed off on me. When I moved out for college and throughout my adulthood, I have always loved cooking and entertaining for my friends and family. It just happened to become my career. For my 40th birthday, my mom gave me a book of recipes that she had been preparing for me my entire life, and the best part was the handwritten recipes from my grandmother. Although I don’t write my own recipes down, I actually use it to make hers.

What is your favorite, wintertime recipe you’ve ever created, and what aspects of the flavor profiles make this meal your favorite?

I think of my Moroccan chicken stew. My husband and I have actually been preparing this dish for about 20 years now. It’s hearty, healthy and full of the most delicious, aromatic spices that are what make it so special. It’s hot and a little spicy; yet, it is ever so comforting.

With Thanksgiving on the horizon, what foods will you be serving?

We always serve the traditional Thanksgiving dishes such as turkey and dressing, but my specialty is always my homemade sweet potato soufflé. Queen Mommy Casseroles’ followers definitely know about it!

What memory have you made while cooking has influenced your outlook on life?

It’s the friendships I’ve made in the Homewood community. I now have friends for life literally from just preparing meals for them and their families! It’s been a true blessing for me.

What three ingredients could you never live without?

This is really hard! Garlic powder is the spice of life. I literally put it in all of my savory dishes. Cheese makes everything better. Whether it’s for a casserole topping or just to eat alone, I definitely could not live without cheese. Pasta–this one does not need an explanation in my opinion, and Orzo is definitely my favorite! My Orzo salads are apparently becoming legendary in this neck of the woods. I guess if I only had these three ingredients, I could probably whip up a mean mac and cheese Orzo that would sustain me for life.

Follow Amy Boyd on Instagram @queenmommycasseroles for recipes.