Are you a beginner in the kitchen, looking for simple and delicious recipes to get started? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 effortless two-ingredient recipes that are perfect for anyone just starting out. From sweet treats like peanut butter cookies and banana ice cream, to savory dishes like mac and cheese and scrambled eggs, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And the best part? Each one only requires two ingredients! No more scrolling through recipe websites or searching high and low for exotic spices – with these recipes, you’ll be whipping up delicious meals in no time.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
A classic favorite, these soft-baked peanut butter cookies are a staple for any occasion. With the richness of peanut butter and the sweetness of sugar, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and butter until smooth.
3. Gradually add sugar and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
9. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Banana Ice Cream
Enjoy a sweet and refreshing dessert with this simple recipe that combines ripe bananas and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Churning time: 20-30 minutes
– Freezing time: at least 2 hours or overnight
Chocolate Fudge
Transform simple ingredients into a decadent treat with this easy-to-make chocolate fudge recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 12 ounces (340g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the fudge reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in butter and vanilla extract until combined. Pour into prepared dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before cutting and serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pancakes
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy pancakes! This simple recipe yields a delicious breakfast treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Scrambled Eggs
Start your day off right with a fluffy and flavorful scrambled eggs dish. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and a little bit of cooking expertise.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped herbs (e.g., parsley, chives) for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently scramble the eggs, breaking them up into small curds.
5. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, until the eggs are fully scrambled and there’s no more liquid egg visible.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Guacamole
This classic Mexican dip is a staple for any gathering, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy and flavorful guacamole to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocado halves until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Add the lime juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, garlic, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (prep time)
Yogurt Popsicles
Cool Down with Yogurt Popsicles
Are you looking for a refreshing treat that’s perfect for hot summer days? Look no further! This easy recipe makes delicious yogurt popsicles that are healthy and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed berry juice (such as raspberry, blueberry, and blackberry)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 10-12 ice pop molds
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, mixed berry juice, and honey until well combined.
2. Pour the mixture into each ice pop mold, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
3. Insert popsicle sticks into each mold.
4. Place the molds in the freezer and freeze for at least 4-5 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours or overnight
Note: You can also use a blender to mix the ingredients before pouring them into the molds if you prefer a smoother texture.
Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the milk and stir until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Omelette
A simple yet satisfying breakfast or snack that can be customized with your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
– Optional fillings (e.g. shredded cheese, diced ham, chopped bell peppers, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter or oil in a small non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the edges of the omelette towards the center, allowing uncooked egg to flow to the edges.
5. Once the eggs are almost set, add your desired fillings to one half of the omelette.
6. Use the spatula to fold the other half of the omelette over the fillings.
7. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to a minute, until the cheese is melted (if using) and the omelette is cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 2-3 minutes total
Chocolate Mousse
This rich and creamy dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. With only a few ingredients, you can create a show-stopping treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Fold in the whipped cream until no white streaks remain.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert.
Flatbread
Create a simple yet flavorful flatbread with this easy recipe. Perfect for accompanying soups, stews, or using as a base for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring with a fork until the dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush both sides of the flatbread with olive oil.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
8. Cook the flatbread for 30-45 seconds per side, until golden brown and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per flatbread
Whipped Cream
Elevate your desserts with this simple whipped cream recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be able to create a light and fluffy topping that’s perfect for cakes, pies, or hot chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
3. Continue beating until stiff peaks form, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 2-3 minutes
– Total time: 5-7 minutes
Lemonade
A classic summer drink that’s perfect for hot days and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
– Sliced lemons or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, fill glasses with ice and pour the lemonade over the ice.
5. Stir gently and garnish with sliced lemons or mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix and chill.
Pasta Alfredo
Pasta Alfredo Recipe
Rich and creamy, this classic Italian dish is a staple of comfort food. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 6 tbsp (84g) butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Remove sauce from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine cooked pasta and Alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Pasta Alfredo!
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Eggs are a staple in many cuisines, and hard-boiling them is a simple way to prepare them for snacking or using in recipes. This method results in perfectly cooked eggs with a creamy yolk and firm white.
Ingredients:
– 6-12 eggs
– Water
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the eggs in a single layer at the bottom of a saucepan or pot.
2. Add enough cold water to cover the eggs by about an inch.
3. If desired, add 1-2 tablespoons of salt to the water.
4. Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer (medium-low) and let cook for 12-15 minutes for large eggs or 6-8 minutes for small/medium eggs.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath or a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process.
Cooking Time:
– Large eggs: 12-15 minutes
– Small/medium eggs: 6-8 minutes
Peanut Butter Fudge
Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Cheese Crisps
Add a deliciously crunchy twist to your snack game with these easy-to-make Cheese Crisps!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (or other hard cheese)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together the grated cheese, flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the melted butter to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each crisp.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fruit Sorbet
A refreshing and light dessert perfect for hot summer days, this fruit sorbet recipe is a great way to enjoy your favorite fruits in a new and exciting way.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the mixed berries until smooth.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the berry puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus freezing time)
Summary
Discover the joy of cooking with these 18 effortless 2-ingredient recipes perfect for beginners! From sweet treats like Peanut Butter Cookies and Banana Ice Cream to savory dishes like Scrambled Eggs and Mac and Cheese, these simple recipes will have you whipping up delicious meals in no time. And don’t forget the desserts – Chocolate Fudge, Whipped Cream, and Fruit Sorbet are just a few of the tasty options on this list. Whether you’re a culinary newbie or just looking for quick and easy meal ideas, these 2-ingredient wonders won’t disappoint.
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