Are you a beginner chef looking to add some new skills to your kitchen repertoire? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 easy and delicious recipes that are perfect for those just starting out. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes will help you build confidence in the kitchen and impress your friends and family.
Whether you’re a college student looking to cook up some quick and easy meals between classes, or a busy professional seeking to meal prep on the weekends, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of recipes includes a mix of quick and simple dishes that can be whipped up in no time, as well as more complex dishes that require a bit more finesse.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting some of our favorite beginner-friendly recipes, including Classic Spaghetti Carbonara, Homemade Margherita Pizza, and Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara
A rich and creamy Italian dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. This classic recipe features spaghetti tossed with bacon, eggs, parmesan cheese, and black pepper for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, cook the pancetta or bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the bowl with the egg mixture. Toss well to combine.
5. Add the cooked pancetta or bacon to the pasta mixture and toss again.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Margherita Pizza
Experience the simplicity and flavor of Italy’s iconic pizza with this homemade recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously authentic Margherita pizza in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Top with mozzarella cheese and chopped basil leaves.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Savor the flavors of Italy with this quick and delicious recipe, featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Serve with pasta or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
7. If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits.
8. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
9. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with garlic butter sauce until well coated.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Perfect Fluffy Pancakes
Perfect Fluffy Pancakes Recipe
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy pancakes, light and airy on the inside and golden brown on the outside. This simple recipe yields a batch of delicious pancakes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with cooking spray if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on size and number of pancakes)
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Creamy Mushroom Risotto Recipe
A rich and creamy risotto dish packed with sautéed mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the risotto and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, allowing each portion to absorb before adding more. Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Remove from heat; add Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Beef Stir-Fry
Get ready for a quick and flavorful meal with this simple beef stir-fry recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper strips
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Lemon Herb Chicken
Roasted Lemon Herb Chicken: A Bright and Zesty Twist on Classic Chicken Dishes
This recipe combines the bold flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs with the tender juiciness of roasted chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a large baking dish and brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Pad Thai
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and flavorful Vegetable Pad Thai recipe, featuring a mix of colorful vegetables and rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts, etc.)
– 2 cups cooked rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
4. Stir in cooked rice noodles, tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped peanuts or cashews if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these classic cookies that are quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a tray of chewy, chocolatey goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Caesar Salad
This iconic salad is a timeless favorite, made with crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and savory croutons. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce leaves.
2. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle the croutons and Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on preparation time)
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
A classic comfort food, homemade chicken noodle soup is a simple and satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir in the cooked noodles into the soup pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this classic recipe that combines the perfect blend of creamy cheese, al dente pasta, and crispy breadcrumbs. This baked macaroni and cheese is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
6. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and stir until coated.
8. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese and the pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these roasted potatoes are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Guacamole and Chips
A classic combination that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser! This recipe yields a creamy, flavorful guacamole paired with crispy tortilla chips for the perfect snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the chopped onion, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the avocado.
3. Use a fork to mash the ingredients together until you reach your desired consistency (chunky or smooth).
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a serving platter or individual plates.
5. Serve the fresh guacamole alongside the chips.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
One-Pot Beef Chili
Warm up with this comforting, easy-to-make beef chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering. This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful spices, and nutritious vegetables in one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, shredded cheese, and crushed tortilla chips for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is easy to make and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and top each bell pepper with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Bread with Walnuts
This classic banana bread recipe gets a delicious boost from the addition of toasted walnuts, adding texture and flavor to this already moist and aromatic treat. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm and gooey grilled cheese sandwich paired with a bowl of creamy tomato soup. This classic comfort food combination is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Tomato Soup (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Place one or two slices of cheese on top of the bread in the skillet.
4. Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
7. Serve with a bowl of warm tomato soup for dipping.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Summary
Get cooking with confidence! This collection of 18 easy recipes is perfect for beginner chefs. From classic Spaghetti Carbonara to homemade Margherita Pizza, and from creamy Mushroom Risotto to simple Beef Stir-Fry, these dishes are sure to impress. Other highlights include roasted Lemon Herb Chicken, vegetable-packed Pad Thai, and indulgent Baked Mac and Cheese. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats like Fresh Guacamole and Chips or savory meals like Stuffed Bell Peppers, there’s something for everyone in this beginner-friendly recipe roundup.