Are you a beginner in the kitchen looking for some delicious and easy-to-make recipes to try out? Look no further! This collection of 20 mouth-watering homemade food recipes is perfect for anyone who wants to start cooking but doesn’t know where to begin. From classic comfort foods like chicken noodle soup and mac and cheese, to international flavors like beef tacos and stir-fry with rice, there’s something here for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite homemade recipes that are perfect for beginners. These dishes are easy to make, use simple ingredients, and require minimal cooking skills. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick meals or a parent trying to get your kids to eat healthier, these recipes are sure to please.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the world of homemade cooking with our first 10 recipes…
Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
A comforting and classic soup that’s perfect for any occasion, this homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is a staple of many households.
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
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 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, carrots, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the egg noodles and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until they’re al dente.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza
A classic Italian pizza that requires only a few simple ingredients and no yeast-based dough. This recipe yields a delicious, cheesy pie with fresh tomato flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add olive oil and warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm) on a floured surface.
4. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
5. Arrange mozzarella slices evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Top with tomato slices and sprinkle with salt.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Remove from oven and top with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fluffy Homemade Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy homemade pancakes drizzled with pure Canadian maple syrup. This simple recipe yields a batch of tender, golden brown cakes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
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 or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food that’s sure to satisfy your cravings! This recipe yields a creamy, cheesy pasta dish with a golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and creamy cheese sauce. Mix well to coat pasta evenly.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Homemade Beef Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this flavorful recipe that combines tender beef, crispy tortillas, and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla and topping with cheese and your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Homemade Guacamole with Tortilla Chips
Enjoy the creamy richness of freshly made guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips in this simple and delicious recipe.
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
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
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 mostly smooth.
3. Add the chopped red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and garlic to the mashed avocado. Stir until well combined.
4. Stir in the chopped cilantro leaves.
5. Serve immediately with tortilla chips, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to make, ready in just a few minutes.
Homemade Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice
A classic and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option. This recipe combines the flavors of your favorite vegetables, cooked to perfection in a savory sauce, served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g. peas, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook until thawed and heated through.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the vegetable stir-fry over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Decadent Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies
Decadent Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Treat your taste buds to the ultimate chocolate chip cookie experience with this simple and indulgent recipe.
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. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract (if using).
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: 24-30 cookies
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this indulgent yet effortless recipe that combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and perfectly cooked noodles. Get ready for a flavorful ride!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Combine reserved pasta water with garlic butter mixture. Add cooked spaghetti and toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional). Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using).
6. Serve immediately, savoring the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savory Homemade Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
This classic comfort food recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. While the meatloaf is cooking, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter.
5. Serve meatloaf hot with mashed potatoes and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser, with a creamy spinach and cheese filling wrapped in tender pasta shells. Serve hot and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-cheese mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Homemade Banana Bread
Sweet Homemade Banana Bread Recipe
Treat your family and friends to a moist and delicious homemade banana bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, 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 mixture and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Enjoy your sweet homemade banana bread!
Homemade Beef and Vegetable Stew
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting homemade beef and vegetable stew recipe. Made with tender chunks of beef, a variety of colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef cubes over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Crispy Homemade Fried Chicken
Get ready to savor the perfect blend of crunch and flavor with this easy-to-make homemade fried chicken recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with remaining pieces.
6. Remove fried chicken from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
Enjoy your crispy homemade fried chicken!
Homemade Blueberry Muffins with Crumb Topping
Start your day off right with these moist and flavorful homemade blueberry muffins, topped with a crunchy crumb mixture. Perfect for breakfast or a snack on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– Crumb Topping:
+ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
+ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
+ 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, milk, eggs, and blueberries. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Prepare Crumb Topping by combining flour, sugar, and cold butter in a small bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
6. Sprinkle Crumb Topping over muffins.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Homemade Caesar Salad with Croutons
A classic salad gets a fresh twist with this simple recipe that yields a delicious and crunchy Caesar salad with homemade croutons.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (for croutons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
4. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons of water.
6. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
7. Top with homemade croutons and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Homemade Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this bright and citrusy recipe, perfectly balancing the bold flavors of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the surface of the bird.
5. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste with pan juices every 20 minutes to keep the chicken moist and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Warm Homemade Apple Pie with Cinnamon
As the seasons change and the weather grows cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm slice of homemade apple pie to brighten up your day. This classic recipe is infused with the warmth and comfort of cinnamon, making it perfect for snuggling up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and dot with butter pieces.
4. Brush egg wash over the edges of the pie crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Mushroom and Swiss Burger
Elevate your burger game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines sautéed mushrooms, melted Swiss cheese, and savory beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, garlic, and butter until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add flour and cook for an additional minute.
4. Form beef patties and season with salt and pepper. Grill patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble burgers by placing a patty on each bun, topping with sautéed mushrooms and shredded Swiss cheese.
6. Serve immediately and add optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Refreshing Homemade Iced Tea with Lemon
Start your day or refresh after a long one with this simple and flavorful homemade iced tea infused with the zesty goodness of lemon. This recipe is perfect for hot summer days when a cool drink is just what you need.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 black tea bags (such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the tea bags and let them steep for 3-5 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
3. Remove the tea bags and add the lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
4. If desired, add sugar to taste.
5. Pour the tea into glasses filled with ice cubes.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including steeping time)
Summary
Discover the joy of cooking with these 20 delicious homemade food recipes perfect for beginners! From classic comfort foods like chicken noodle soup and mac and cheese to international flavors like beef tacos and garlic butter shrimp pasta, there’s something for everyone. Plus, sweet treats like banana bread and blueberry muffins will satisfy your cravings. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. Whether you’re a novice chef or just looking for some inspiration, this collection of homemade food recipes has got you covered!
Leave a Reply