33 beginner recipes, because you're not a chef (and that's okay!)

Are you tired of recipes that make you feel like you’ll never learn to cook? Here you’ll find 33 beginner-friendly recipes that celebrate simplicity and flavor, because, let’s face it, not all of us are chefs, and that’s okay!

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

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.

Dive into the world of Tex-Mex flavors with this beginner recipe where tender chicken and spicy enchilada sauce come together effortlessly. Let the slow cooker do all the work for you, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that the whole family will adore. Top it off with cheese and sour cream for an extra layer of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

Easy Chicken Piccata

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

With this beginner recipe, you’ll create a zesty, lemony chicken dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The simple 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

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

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

Perfectly seared and tender, this beginner recipe for Cast Iron Chicken Thighs is a delightful way to enjoy chicken. The cast iron skillet ensures crispy skin and a juicy interior, with simple seasoning to let the delicious chicken shine. This dish is a winner for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

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

Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies

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.

This beginner recipe 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

Sausage and Peppers

Experience the comfort of a classic Italian dish with this beginner recipe, where sausages and colorful bell peppers blend in a savory harmony. 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

Harvest Sheet Pan Dinner

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

With this beginner recipe, prepare a hearty and colorful Harvest Sheet Pan Dinner that’s brimming with autumn flavors and easy to make. Embrace the changing seasons with this dish, featuring a delightful mix of roasted vegetables, tender meat, and seasonal herbs. This sheet pan dinner not only tastes delicious but also showcases the beauty of fall on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Sheet Pan Dinner

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

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

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

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

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

Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger

A bowl of chicken and cabbage soup is shown on a rustic wooden cutting board with parsley and a red linen. — Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

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

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

Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

A bowl of tortellini soup sits on a rustic wooden cutting board with a yellow linen and a bunch of parsley. — Instant Pot Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

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

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

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

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

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

Mediterranean Grain Bowl

Two grain bowls are shown on a white marble counter with forks, a red linen, dill, and a lemon. — Mediterranean Grain Bowl. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken

A picutre of cheesy chicken with bacon and dried parsley. — Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Enjoy the creamy and savory goodness of Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken with this beginner recipe that’s 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

Tortellini & Meatballs

Tri color tortellini with meatballs in two serving bowls. — Tortellini & Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge in a delicious Italian-inspired meal with this beginner recipe for Tortellini & Meatballs, a combination of pasta and meatballs that’s simple yet satisfying. Tender tortellini and flavorful meatballs are simmered in a rich tomato sauce, creating a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini & Meatballs

Egg and Cucumber Sandwiches

An egg and cucumber sandwich with pepper jack cheese, spring mix, and dill sauce is shown on a white plate over a rustic wooden cutting board. — Egg and Cucumber Sandwiches. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

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

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

A bowl of chicken and spinach soup with a spoon. — Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sit down to the comforting flavors of this copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup. Warm, creamy, and oh-so-delicious, it’s a must-try for beginner cooks who are soup lovers!
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Caprese Magic Chicken Bake

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken inside cast iron. — Caprese Magic Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Elevate your culinary escapades with our Caprese Magic Chicken Bake, where succulent chicken breasts play host to the passionate embrace of tomatoes and mozzarella. This Italian-inspired symphony dances on your palate, celebrating the art of simplicity without the carb-heavy burden. It’s a golden-baked masterpiece that doesn’t take much effort to make.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Magic Chicken Bake

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Busy school days call for easy dinner solutions for beginners like this slow cooker beef and broccoli. Tender beef simmered in a savory sauce with crisp broccoli florets makes for a well-balanced and nutritious meal that even picky eaters won’t be able to resist.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Chicken Salsa Black Bean Casserole

Chicken black bean salsa casserole. — Chicken Salsa Black Bean Casserole. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

Clear out your pantry and fridge and turn those leftovers into this chicken salsa black bean casserole. Make it today, freeze it, and eat it on a night when you don’t have time to cook. It’s perfect for beginner cooks.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salsa Black Bean Casserole

Sauerkraut Chicken

Discover the mouthwatering combination of tangy sauerkraut and tender chicken with this irresistible beginner recipe. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this unique and flavorful sauerkraut chicken dish.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Chicken

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

A closeup side view is shown of an air fryer turkey burger on a light blue plate. — Air Fryer Turkey Burgers. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These easy air fryer turkey burgers have a juicy and moist, perfectly seasoned turkey patty, a crispy toasted bun, and all of your favorite toppings! This is a quick, easy, and flavorful recipe is perfect for beginners because the air fryer does almost all of the work for you!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

33 beginner recipes, because you’re not a chef (and that’s okay!)