Creating mouth-watering dishes from scratch can be an intimidating experience, especially for those who have never stepped foot in a kitchen before. If you’re one of them, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve curated 30 beginner-friendly recipes that are almost impossible to mess up, ensuring that even the most novice cook can whip up something delicious.
From classic comfort foods like fluffy pancakes and crispy toast to international favorites such as spaghetti Bolognese and homemade pizza, our carefully selected recipes will guide you through each step of the cooking process. So what are you waiting for? Take a deep breath, preheat that oven or fire up the skillet, and let the culinary journey begin.
Rice
Eager to take your rice cooking skills to the next level? With just a few simple techniques and tools, you can master the art of cooking perfect rice every time. Whether you’re in the mood for a stovetop-cooked meal, a grilled side dish, or a quick and easy rice cooker recipe, this versatile guide has got you covered.
Naan Pizza
Navigating the complexities of homemade dough can be a daunting task for many. Fortunately, this recipe eliminates that hurdle, offering an uncomplicated solution. The convenience of using store-bought ingredients is one of its greatest benefits. By doing so, the focus shifts from labor-intensive preparation to effortless assembly and baking. Simply grab some naan (flatbread), spread it with a layer of marinara sauce, top it off with shredded cheese, and let your oven do the rest.
Nachos
Delighting many with its crunchy texture and savory flavors, nachos have become a staple in Mexican cuisine and beyond. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also incredibly quick, taking minimal effort to prepare. The fundamental ingredients are straightforward: store-bought tortilla chips and melted cheese. However, for those familiar with sautéing, adding cooked ground beef or pork can elevate the dish to a whole new level, bringing an extra depth of flavor and richness.
Avocado Toast
Nothing beats the simplicity of a well-crafted avocado recipe. Not only does this dish come together quickly, but its flavors are also remarkably versatile. To start, you’ll need to mash an avocado and generously spread it onto your toast. While this is a great base, you can take it to the next level by adding some crispy bacon and a poached egg for added depth and richness.
Guacamole
Blending a few simple ingredients together is all it takes to create a delicious and creamy guacamole. Start by slicing an avocado in half, removing the pit, and scooping out the flesh into a bowl. Mash it up until you reach your desired consistency. Next, mix in some chopped cilantro, diced jalapenos, and thinly sliced red onion. Squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with salt to bring out the flavors.
With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a tasty dip that’s perfect for snacking or entertaining. Keep in mind that avocados tend to turn brown quickly, so it’s best not to make a huge batch unless you’re hosting a large gathering. If you do happen to run out, don’t worry – making more is just as easy as the first time around!
Tacos
Crafting the perfect tacos requires a delicate balance of flavors and textures. The combination of tangy salsa, crunchy lettuce, and creamy avocado creates a harmonious union that will leave you craving more. To assemble your tacos, start by filling taco shells with sliced avocado, beans, and shredded cabbage. Don’t forget to add some protein to the mix, such as chopped chicken or ground beef, if desired. Finally, top them off with shredded cheese and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Spaghetti
Honestly, making spaghetti is not as intimidating as it may seem, even for a culinary novice. The great thing about this recipe is that it requires only basic ingredients that are probably already stocked in your pantry, including pasta, olive oil, garlic, salt, ground black pepper, and dried chili flakes. The aroma of sizzling garlic and butter infused into the olive oil will be an olfactory experience you won’t soon forget!
Simply add the seasonings and toss them with the pasta, and a satisfying dinner is ready to be devoured.
Macaroni and Cheese
Vegetarian Quesadilla
Often considered a staple in Mexican cuisine, quesadillas are a must-try dish that every home cook should have under their belt. This vegetarian version is particularly appealing, with its filling of choice being either chicken, fish, or cheese, all wrapped up inside a whole wheat tortilla. The simplicity of this dish belies its rich flavor and texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for sure. To prepare, simply pop it in the oven for 20 minutes and voila!
Your delicious quesadillas are ready to be devoured.
Buttered Noodles
Elevating the humble buttered noodle to new heights, it’s no wonder why this classic comfort food remains a staple in many households. The simplicity of combining just three basic ingredients – butter, garlic, and pasta – is both its beauty and its magic. Adding a pinch of salt and pepper brings out the flavors, while finishing with a sprinkle of cheese takes it to a whole new level.
Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or just need a pick-me-up on a busy weeknight, this delectable dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Pancakes
Making a delicious breakfast for your family is always a great way to start the day. To whip up some fluffy pancakes, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients including flour, baking soda, buttermilk, butter, sugar, and salt. Once you have all of these items in hand, simply combine them in a bowl and mix until smooth. Then, cook the batter on a griddle or frying pan until bubbles appear on the surface.
Finish off your pancakes by slathering them with butter, drizzling with maple syrup, and serving hot. I guarantee that this tasty breakfast will make your kids – and you! – feel loved and appreciated.
Pumpkin Pasta
Generally speaking, pumpkin pasta might raise some eyebrows at first glance. However, one bite is all it takes to fall in love with its unique flavor combination. This deceptively simple recipe turns out incredibly well, making it surprisingly difficult to believe that you didn’t order it from a restaurant!
Spinach Salad
Fresh from the garden, spinach leaves blend perfectly with crunchy apples and salty feta cheese in a harmonious union of flavors. The tangy vinaigrette brings everything together, creating a salad that’s far from boring. Whether you choose to stick to the recipe or get creative by adding your favorite ingredients, salads offer the ultimate flexibility.
With practice, it becomes surprisingly easy to combine flavors and textures that work well together, allowing for endless experimentation and customization.
Apple Sandwich
Beneath its unassuming exterior lies a surprise that will change your perception of what makes a great snack. Believe us when we say that this recipe has the power to convert even the most skeptical of eaters. The combination of fresh apple slices, creamy almond butter, and crunchy granola is nothing short of perfection. But the best part? This delightful sandwich is not only delicious but also remarkably guilt-free!
Oatmeal
Taking instant oats off the menu is a great decision, as they can’t compete with rolled oats in terms of nutritional value and taste. Fortunately, cooking rolled oats is relatively easy. To get started, note that you’ll need to maintain a 1:2 ratio between oats and milk – this simple trick will help you prepare a perfect bowl every time. And the best part?
You can elevate your oatmeal game by topping it with a variety of fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or bananas, making breakfast a delightful experience.
French Fries
When it comes to French fries, there’s a fine line between achieving that perfect crunch on the outside and maintaining a fluffy interior. What sets this recipe apart from others is its unique seasoning blend.
Peanut Butter Toast
Undoubtedly, this next recipe stands out as one of the simplest yet most flavorful on our list. The combination of ingredients may seem straightforward, but it’s a masterclass in balancing sweet and savory flavors. Start by toasting your bread until it’s crispy and golden brown. Then, spread a generous layer of creamy peanut butter over its surface – it’s the perfect base for what’s about to come. To add some extra excitement, top with sliced bananas, fresh blueberries, and dark chocolate chips.
The textures and flavors meld together beautifully, creating a treat that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Sweet Potato Fries
Fix yourself a tasty side dish or a crunchy snack by slicing up some sweet potatoes and coating them in olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the oven do its magic, taking care of the rest of the cooking process for you. Feel completely guilt-free to indulge in these delicious sweet potato bites, munching on them as much as you like without worrying about the calorie count.
Mashed Potatoes
Ponder this for a moment: what makes the perfect bowl of mashed potatoes so irresistible? The truth is, many people can’t get enough of that smooth and creamy texture. In fact, I’m guilty of indulging in a spoonful (or two) for breakfast, lunch, or dinner – it’s just that good! So, what’s the magic behind these silky spuds? One key ingredient stands out from the rest: HOT milk. Give it a try and see why everyone’s raving about this game-changing twist on a classic side dish.
Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Nourished by its rich ingredients, this salad is a game-changer. A medley of chicken, almonds, and grapes might seem like an unusual combination, but when smothered in a creamy mayo-whipped dressing, it transcends culinary expectations.
Frozen Fruit Smoothie
Love the versatility of smoothies is one of their most appealing qualities – they can be made with a wide range of fruits that may have been lingering in your pantry for too long. Consider combining ingredients like mango, strawberry, banana, orange, blueberry, raspberry, or melon to create a delicious and unique flavor profile.
Adding Greek yogurt or milk gives the smoothie a creamy texture, while pulsing it in the blender is all that’s required to finish the job – and before you know it, your smoothie is ready to enjoy!
Grilled Cheese
Creating the perfect grilled cheese sandwich is relatively simple, requiring just two fundamental components: toasted bread and melted cheese. Whether you opt for a rich cheddar, a mild provolone, or even the creamy brie, rest assured that your grilled cheese will still be delicious. Ultimately, there’s no such thing as a truly bad grilled cheese sandwich, making it an ideal option for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Parfaits
Kickstart your day with a touch of elegance. Enjoying a colorful parfait for breakfast is an easy way to add some sophistication to your morning routine. Layers of fresh fruit, crunchy granola, and creamy yogurt in a glass create a visually appealing treat that’s almost too beautiful to eat.
Waffles
Remarkably, waffles have a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Their crispy exterior gives way to a soft and fluffy interior, making them irresistible. When it comes to whipping up a batch, relying on the convenience of Bisquick mix is not only easy but also incredibly accessible. This simple recipe requires minimal effort, making it ideal for beginners who want to indulge in waffles daily without any fuss.
No-Bake Cookies
Many bakers are often surprised when they hear that some cookies can be made without using traditional ingredients like flour. This recipe is a great example of that. It requires just seven simple ingredients: cocoa powder, sugar, quick oats, butter, milk, vanilla extract, and peanut butter. One thing you might notice about this list is the complete absence of flour – which means no baking in the oven required!
In fact, all you need to do is combine these ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious cookie dough ready to be enjoyed.
Easy Apple Crisp
Perfectly sweet and crunchy, this dessert is sure to delight even the most discerning palate, regardless of their feelings towards apples. Coated in a mixture of cinnamon and brown sugar, and topped with a generous helping of cinnamon-infused oats, these apples are then baked to a golden brown perfection that will leave you craving more.
Served warm, topped with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and drizzled with a rich caramel sauce, one serving is simply not enough, as the combination of textures and flavors is nothing short of magical.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie
Not only does this peanut butter pie cater to the sweet tooth of every dessert enthusiast, but its decadent filling also boasts an unbeatable combination of creamy textures and rich flavors. The union of peanut butter, cream cheese, and whipped cream creates a heavenly sensation that’s sure to transport you to a state of bliss. Paired with a crumbly, buttery crust, this pie is the epitome of indulgence, promising a truly unforgettable dessert experience.
Microwave Fantasy Fudge
Taking it to the next level of indulgence, fantasy fudge offers an unbeatable combination of rich, creamy textures and deep, velvety flavors. Beyond its decadent chocolate content, this treat boasts a delightful nutty element courtesy of its generous walnut inclusions. As each morsel melts in your mouth, the smooth, fudgy center is perfectly juxtaposed by the satisfying crunch of the walnuts, creating an irresistible sensation that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
30 Beginner Recipe Collection
Instructions
Mastering meal prep is easier than you think, and with these simple steps, you can create a delicious dish in no time. To get started, simply choose a recipe that suits your taste buds, and then make sure to have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Finally, allocate 30 minutes or less to prepare a beginner-friendly dish that’s both tasty and easy to make.
