Are you tired of cooking the same old dishes for every occasion? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious good food recipes that are perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a family get-together, or just want to impress your significant other, these mouth-watering meals are sure to please.
From classic comfort foods like creamy garlic parmesan pasta and baked mac and cheese with crispy topping, to international flavors like spicy Thai basil beef and grilled lemon herb shrimp skewers, we’ve got you covered. And don’t even get us started on the sweet treats – decadent chocolate lava cake and fresh mango avocado salsa are just a few of our favorite indulgences.
In this article, we’ll be diving into each of these 20 recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and techniques to help you create a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to cook up a storm!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan with a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, creamy sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and spicy recipe, featuring juicy chicken thighs smothered in a sticky glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and toss to coat.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef Bourguignon
Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of France with this timeless classic recipe that combines tender beef, mushrooms, and red wine.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or similar)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot; set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.
3. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Homemade Margherita Pizza
A classic Italian favorite, this homemade Margherita pizza recipe is a simple yet flavorful twist on the traditional Neapolitan-style pizza. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously cheesy and savory pie in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and basil leaves.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and moist salmon dish, infused with the richness of garlic butter and the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, parsley, and dill.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A Deliciously Easy Meal
Bring the flavors of a backyard barbecue to your kitchen with this simple recipe for slow cooker pulled pork sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in barbecue sauce.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and place onto hamburger buns.
5. Serve immediately, topped with coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Vegetable Stir Fry with Sesame Sauce
Get ready to savor the flavors of Asia with this quick and easy vegetable stir fry recipe, elevated by a creamy sesame sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, mushrooms)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and ginger; cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, tahini, and water to make the sesame sauce.
4. Pour the sesame sauce over the vegetable mixture; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake
Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe
A rich and gooey chocolate cake that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. This classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together melted chocolate, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Pour batter into 4 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set, but centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool in ramekins for 1 minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fresh Mango Avocado Salsa
A sweet and savory twist on traditional salsa, this recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado with the vibrant flavor of fresh mango.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None – this salsa is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this creamy, cheesy recipe featuring a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Stir over medium heat until cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Lemon Herb Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your seafood game with these succulent shrimp skewers, infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of herbs. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread 2-3 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each one.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add egg noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until they’re tender.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies and protein in a flash!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add the broccoli and garlic; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the cooked beef to the pan and add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Savor the taste of a classic breakfast treat with these light and fluffy pancakes, perfectly sweetened with a drizzle of pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– Pure maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until just combined.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with a drizzle of pure maple syrup (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for 12-15 pancakes.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Elevate your mashed potato game with the deep flavor of roasted garlic. This recipe combines the comfort of classic mashed potatoes with the rich, nutty taste of caramelized garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While the potatoes cook, toss the garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is golden brown and caramelized.
4. Drain the cooked potatoes and add them to a mixing bowl. Add the softened butter, heavy cream or whole milk, roasted garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Thai Basil Beef
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the richness of beef, this Spicy Thai Basil Beef recipe is a must-try. With a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory notes, it’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add beef; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add coconut milk, fish sauce, sugar, and basil; stir to combine.
6. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until beef is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with sliced chilies (if using); serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise
Start your day off right with this iconic breakfast dish that combines the richness of eggs, ham, and hollandaise sauce on toasted English muffins.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs, poached
– 4 slices of Canadian bacon or ham
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 1 cup of hollandaise sauce (see recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Hollandaise Sauce Recipe:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a simmer and add the eggs.
2. Poach the eggs for 3-4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
3. Toast the English muffins and top each with a slice of Canadian bacon or ham.
4. Place a poached egg on top of the meat.
5. Drizzle hollandaise sauce over the egg and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
Elevate your summer salads with this sweet and savory combination of grilled peaches, creamy burrata cheese, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the peach slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and tender.
4. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces and place on a serving plate.
5. Top the burrata with grilled peaches, drizzle with balsamic glaze and honey.
6. Sprinkle with chopped basil leaves if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Beef Tacos with Fresh Fixings
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos! This recipe combines tender beef, crispy tortillas, and fresh toppings for a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1/2 medium bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Sliced avocado
– Sour cream
– Chopped cilantro
– Queso fresco or shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas and topping with your favorite fixings.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Rich and Creamy Tiramisu
Experience the classic Italian dessert, elevated with rich flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine coffee and sugar; stir until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a serving dish. Top with half the mascarpone mixture, followed by half the whipped cream.
5. Repeat layers, ending with whipped cream on top.
6. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (assembly only)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these 20 mouth-watering recipes for every occasion! From classic comfort food like creamy pasta and homemade pizza, to international flavors like Thai basil beef and spicy honey glazed chicken, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in decadent desserts like chocolate lava cake and tiramisu, or start the day off right with fluffy pancakes and fresh fruit. Whatever your taste buds desire, this collection of recipes has got you covered.
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