31 beginner recipes for the disaster-prone cooks

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Are kitchen mishaps and culinary chaos your daily companions? Well, you’re not alone, and there’s no shame in admitting that the stove might as well be an alien spaceship. In this collection of beginner recipes, you’ll prove to yourself that even if you’ve set off the smoke alarm one too many times, you can still whip up delicious and satisfying meals without breaking a sweat.

Cooking can be an intimidating endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be. In this collections every dish is designed to be easy, forgiving, and, most importantly, scrumptious. So, put on your apron, dust off that spatula, and join us on this culinary rollercoaster where the mantra is simple: “Screw it, let’s eat!”

A baking dish full of chicken enchiladas is surrounded by cut limes, a halved avocado, and a green linen.
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Tex-Mex cuisine with this beginner recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Tender chicken and spicy enchilada sauce effortlessly combine to create a flavorful filling. Let the slow cooker do the work for you, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Top it off with cheese and sour cream for an extra layer of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

A skillet with chicken piccata and sauce with a lemon wedge on it.
Easy Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Easy Chicken Piccata

Elevate your culinary skills with this beginner recipe for Easy Chicken Piccata. This zesty, lemony chicken dish is perfect for any night of the week. The straightforward preparation and delightful aroma will make you feel like a kitchen pro, and the tangy caper sauce adds a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken breasts.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Piccata

Mediterranean Grain Bowl

Embark on a Mediterranean flavor journey with this beginner recipe for a nourishing and flavorful Grain Bowl. Packed with grains, fresh veggies, olives, and a flavorful dressing, this bowl is a healthy and satisfying choice for lunch or dinner. Customize it with your favorite Mediterranean ingredients for a personalized touch.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grain Bowl

Roasted chicken apple sausage, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts and shallots on a sheet tray.
Harvest Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Harvest Sheet Pan Dinner

Embrace the changing seasons with this beginner recipe for a hearty and colorful Harvest Sheet Pan Dinner. It’s brimming with autumn flavors and easy to make. The dish features a delightful mix of roasted vegetables, tender meat, and seasonal herbs, showcasing the beauty of fall on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Sheet Pan Dinner

Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken

Enjoy the creamy and savory goodness of Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken with this beginner recipe, perfect for busy days. The slow cooker works its magic on tender chicken breasts, which are then smothered in a creamy ranch and cheese sauce. It’s a comforting and hassle-free meal the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken

Closeup overhead shot of 3 crispy chicken thighs in a black cast iron skillet.
Cast Iron Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Experience chicken perfection with this beginner recipe for Cast Iron Chicken Thighs. Achieve perfectly seared and tender results as the cast iron skillet ensures a crispy skin and juicy interior. A blend of seasonings adds flavor to this dish, making it a winner for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger

Warm your soul with a comforting bowl of Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger, an easy-to-follow beginner recipe. The soothing blend of tender chicken, fresh cabbage, and aromatic ginger creates a nourishing soup that’s perfect for when you need a little extra comfort. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger

A bowl of slow cooker salsa chicken, mexican rice, black beans and limes.
Easy Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Easy Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Need something easy and delicious but really don’t have the time to cook? This 2-ingredient slow cooker salsa chicken is just the thing! Tender chicken is simmered in your favorite salsa, then shredded to add to anything from bowls to wraps to salads!

Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Cozy up to a bowl of Creamy Italian Sausage Soup, a beginner recipe that combines rich flavors and creamy goodness in every spoonful. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings and is made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. The comforting aroma and creamy texture make it a family favorite, especially when served with crusty bread for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Healthier Sloppy Joes

Indulge in classic comfort food with a nutritious twist using this beginner recipe for Healthier Sloppy Joes. These flavorful sandwiches are made with lean ground meat and a tangy homemade sauce. Serve them on whole-grain buns for a satisfying meal that’s better for you.
Get the Recipe: Healthier Sloppy Joes

Breaded italian chicken cutlets on a black plate with sliced lemon.
Italian Chicken Cutlets. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Italian Chicken Cutlets

Transport your taste buds to Italy with these crispy Italian Chicken Cutlets, a beginner recipe that’s simple yet satisfying. The golden-brown, breaded chicken cutlets are full of flavor and pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or your favorite pasta dish. A classic Italian favorite made easy.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken Cutlets

Easy Cheesy Hamburger Pasta

Create a delightful family dinner with this beginner recipe for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Pasta, a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to make. The combination of pasta, ground beef, and a creamy cheese sauce is sure to put smiles on everyone’s faces. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Hamburger Pasta

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Make a nutritious and delicious meal in a snap with this beginner recipe for 25 Minute Black Bean Burger. These veggie-packed burgers are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and protein. Top them with your favorite condiments and enjoy a satisfying meatless option.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Creamy Garlic Chicken

Delight your taste buds with this creamy and aromatic dish made easy with this beginner recipe for Creamy Garlic Chicken. The velvety sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken breasts, creating a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

A bowl of chicken pastina soup sits on a rustic wooden cutting board with lemons and dill in the background.
Chicken Pastina Soup. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Chicken Pastina Soup

Warm up your day with a comforting bowl of Chicken Pastina Soup, an easy-to-follow beginner recipe. This Italian-inspired soup features tender chicken and tiny pastina pasta in a flavorful broth. It’s a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for chasing away the chill on a cold day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pastina Soup

Tuna Pesto Pasta

Whip up a quick and delightful Tuna Pesto Pasta with this beginner recipe, combining the richness of pesto sauce with the convenience of canned tuna. This dish is not only easy to make but also a great way to enjoy a satisfying meal in no time. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Pesto Pasta

plate of bloody mary shrimp on peach tiles with a baguette.
Bloody Mary Shrimp. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Bloody Mary Shrimp

Try your hand at a tangy and spicy dish with this beginner recipe for Bloody Mary Shrimp, a fun twist on a classic cocktail. The zesty flavors of Bloody Mary mix and succulent shrimp create a delightful appetizer or main course that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Serve it with a chilled drink to complete the experience.
Get the Recipe: Bloody Mary Shrimp

Egg and Cucumber Sandwiches

Egg and Cucumber Sandwiches are the ultimate beginner dinner idea, offering a refreshing twist to your usual sandwich fare. Perfect for a light, budget-friendly dinner or a quick lunch, these sandwiches combine creamy egg salad with crisp cucumber slices for a delightful meal any beginner can ace!
Get the Recipe: Egg and Cucumber Sandwiches

Closeup shot of turkey burger sliders on a white tray.
Turkey Burger Sliders. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Turkey Burger Sliders

Satisfy your burger cravings with a healthier twist using this beginner recipe for Turkey Burger Sliders, perfect for a quick meal. These mini-sized burgers are not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy turkey’s lean protein. Top them with your favorite condiments and veggies for a flavorful bite-sized treat.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Burger Sliders

Closeup overhead shot of roasted salmon, asparagus, fingerling potatoes, and cherry tomatoes on a blue sheet tray.
Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies

In just one pan, this beginner recipe for Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies offers a delicious and wholesome dinner with minimal cleanup. The oven-roasted flavors of salmon and a variety of colorful vegetables create a balanced and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy evenings. Plus, the simplicity of cooking everything together makes this a go-to option for hassle-free cooking.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies

Herb-Crusted Chicken

Elevate your chicken dinner with this beginner recipe for Herb-Crusted Chicken, a flavorful and elegant dish. The blend of aromatic herbs and crispy breadcrumbs creates a delightful crust on tender chicken breasts. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s simple to make at home.
Get the Recipe: Herb-Crusted Chicken

Salmon Quinoa Salad in a white bowl surrounded by parsley, cherry tomatoes, and a cut lemon.
Salmon Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Salmon Quinoa Salad

Elevate your lunch or dinner routine with this beginner recipe for Salmon Quinoa Salad, a satisfying and healthy meal option. The combination of flaky salmon, protein-packed quinoa, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced and flavorful dish that you can enjoy guilt-free. Drizzle it with your favorite dressing for a burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Quinoa Salad

Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

Dive into a bowl of comfort with this beginner recipe for Instant Pot Tortellini Soup, a warm and hearty meal ready in no time. The Instant Pot makes cooking this soup a breeze, and the tender tortellini swimming in a flavorful broth is pure comfort in every spoonful. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

Slow cooker bbq chicken legs in the crock pot after cooking.
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

For a mouthwatering BBQ experience, try this beginner recipe for Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs, which delivers tender and flavorful results. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with smoky barbecue goodness. It’s a finger-licking good meal that’s perfect for a relaxed dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Create a hearty and satisfying meal in a fraction of the time with this beginner recipe for Instant Pot Chicken Stew. The Instant Pot infuses rich flavors into the tender chicken and vegetables, making it the perfect comfort food for a busy day. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stew

A closeup of hearty marinara sauce in a wooden spoon over a pot of finished marinara sauce.
Hearty Marinara Sauce. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Hearty Marinara Sauce

Prepare a homemade Hearty Marinara Sauce with this beginner recipe, adding a touch of Italian flavor to your pasta dishes. Simmered to perfection, this sauce is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. Use it as a base for pasta, as a pizza sauce, or as a dipping sauce for your favorite snacks.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Marinara Sauce

Sausage and peppers sandwiches on a white platter.
Sausage and Peppers. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Sausage and Peppers

Experience the delicious harmony of sausages and colorful bell peppers with this beginner recipe for Sausage and Peppers. It’s a dish that brings people together, and the aroma of sizzling sausages and peppers will have your kitchen smelling divine. Serve it over pasta, in a sandwich, or on its own for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Peppers

Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken

Bring the flavors of southern France to your table with this beginner recipe for Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken, a fragrant and delicious dish. The blend of aromatic herbs and seasonings creates a flavorful crust on roasted chicken, making it a standout meal for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken

Ground beef stir fry in a skillet.
Ground Beef Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ground Beef Stir Fry

Create a quick and savory meal with this beginner recipe for Ground Beef Stir Fry, a versatile and flavorful dish. The combination of ground beef and colorful vegetables is stir-fried to perfection, and a tasty sauce brings it all together. It’s a fuss-free dinner option that’s packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry

Air Fryer Ham Steak

This beginner recipe for Air Fryer Ham Steak allows you to achieve crispy perfection in no time, making it an ideal meal for busy days. The air fryer method ensures that your ham steak comes out tender on the inside and delightfully crispy on the outside. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that you can enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ham Steak

A spoonful of soup is shown in the foreground over a bowl of Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup.
Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup

Warm up your day with this beginner recipe for Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup, a comforting and wholesome option. The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, so you can enjoy a flavorful and hearty soup without the long wait. Pair it with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup

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