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If you’ve ever browsed an Arkansas craft fair or stepped into a small-town boutique, chances are you’ve seen a display of What’s Cookin’ meal mixes, neat, clear bags filled with hearty soups, skillet dinners, cobblers, dips and more. Each one promises an easy, homemade meal with that made-from-scratch flavor. But behind every bag is more than just a simple dinner solution; it’s a story about community, care and purpose, beginning in Nashville. (Arkansas, that is!)
If you are looking for a place to shop for these and other unique Arkansas gifts, don’t miss your local holiday markets across the state!
A Place of Purpose: The Howard County Children’s Center
Located in the heart of Nashville, the Howard County Children’s Center (HCCC) has been a symbol of hope and support since 1971. What began in a small church annex with only a dozen children has expanded into a comprehensive facility providing education, therapy, job training, and residential care for children and adults with developmental disabilities.
Founded by Mrs. Backus, a local mother seeking a safe, nurturing space for her child with disabilities, the center now serves dozens of clients daily. Its programs range from early childhood day care to adult skill-building and employment opportunities, offering structure, confidence, and connection for those who might otherwise be excluded from the workforce.
For many Howard County residents, the Children’s Center is more than a nonprofit; it’s a lifeline. Families across Southwest Arkansas benefit from having a trusted, local resource nearby and for adults with disabilities, the work experience offers much more than a paycheck. It’s a chance to belong, contribute and be recognized.
What’s Cookin’: From Home Kitchen to Heartfelt Mission
Stephanie Harrison first discovered What’s Cookin’ through her passion for local products and good food. The company, founded in 2007 by a Nashville couple, quickly gained popularity at regional craft fairs. Their ready-to-make soups and skillet meals are designed to help busy families enjoy homemade comfort foods without the hassle of cooking.
After changing hands multiple times, the business came into Stephanie’s care in 2023. A longtime customer and proud Arkansan, she brought not only business sense but also heart. Her decision to buy What’s Cookin’ was deeply personal, inspired by her aunt, who grew up in the Mineral Springs School District and has Down syndrome. At 70 years old, she didn’t always have access to the same school opportunities, and Stephanie sees what’s happening at the HCCC as an encouragement for families.
Stephanie saw firsthand how community support and access to meaningful work transformed her aunt’s life. “She flourished under the opportunities she was given,” Stephanie says. “That’s what made me say ‘yes’ to keeping What’s Cookin’ going and growing.”
Today, each What’s Cookin’ mix is hand-blended through a paid partnership with the Howard County Children’s Center. Clients at the center carefully measure, pour and package each blend, turning every scoop of seasoning and every label into an act of pride and purpose. “They work hard, they laugh and they take pride in their work,” Stephanie shares. “It’s more than just a product; it’s their accomplishment.”
Favorite Mixes to Try
What’s Cookin’ products have become a go-to choice for quick dinners, family nights and thoughtful gifts. With over 30 recipes rotating seasonally, there’s a flavor to suit every occasion. Here are a few favorites customers love:
- Cheeseburger Cheeseburger Soup – A hearty, savory blend with rich cheese and ground beef flavor; one of the brand’s all-time bestsellers.
- Chicken Mushroom & Rice Soup – Comfort in a bowl, this mix pairs perfectly with a cold Arkansas evening.
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup – Creamy, filling, and perfect with a sprinkle of cheese and bacon on top.
- Gumbo – Packed with Cajun seasoning and southern soul, it’s a little Louisiana flavor straight from Nashville, Arkansas.
- Beef stroganoff – A go-to family favorite that’s both budget-friendly and comforting.
- Chocolate Cobbler – The must-try dessert mix that transforms into a warm, gooey treat with just a few pantry staples.
Each mix is assembled and sealed by hand at the center’s facility. The clients can produce over 300 bags in just a few hours, carefully following a process that allows everyone to contribute based on their strengths. “It’s like Santa’s workshop this time of year,” Stephanie laughs. “We’re Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and they’re our elves. They love it.”
Whenever they stop by to pick up a completed order, Stephanie and “Mr. What’s Cookin’” get a tour of their clients’ recent accomplishments.
Offering Responsibility and Reward
For adults with disabilities, steady work means more than just earning money; it’s about feeling like you belong. Through What’s Cookin’, HCCC clients gain structure, teamwork, and the satisfaction of creating something others will enjoy.
“They get paid every Tuesday, go to the bank, handle their own banking, and then head to the store to make weekly purchases,” Stephanie says. “It gives them responsibility, pride, and a reason to talk about their work.” One young man was so proud, she recalls that when visiting Branson, he insisted on taking a photo in front of a store that sells What’s Cookin’ products and telling the owner about his work.
That sense of ownership extends into the community. Stephanie often runs into the workers at the grocery store or local events, where they proudly share what they’ve packaged that week. “They’re proud of their product,” she says. “They’ll tell you exactly what soup or dip they made.”
Where to Find What’s Cookin’ Mixes
You can find What’s Cookin’ mixes in many small shops across Arkansas and nearby states, as well as online. They’re especially popular during the holidays — great as teacher gifts, hostess gifts or stocking stuffers.
Stores like Painted Tree Boutiques and The Shops at Brick City often carry a wide variety of mixes and some restaurants, including one in Colorado, even serve What’s Cookin’ chicken salad straight from the mix on their regular menu. The company also collaborates with the College of the Ozarks to sell co-branded products in their campus store.
If you own a boutique or gift shop and would like to stock What’s Cookin’ mixes, reach out directly to owner Stephanie Harrison at whatscookinwholesale@yahoo.com.
Every purchase helps create meaningful jobs for adults with disabilities, and each bag sold supports the center’s mission of providing local opportunities. So, next time you’re shopping for a gift or preparing for a cozy dinner, look for the familiar What’s Cookin’ label. You’ll enjoy a simple, delicious meal while helping keep a remarkable Arkansas story alive.
What’s Cookin’ Meal Mixes
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