Learn to cook in 2024: 31 beginner recipes to get started

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Are you ready to get cooking in 2024? Whether you’re a complete beginner in the kitchen or looking to expand your cooking skills, our collection of 31 beginner-friendly recipes is here to guide you. From simple and comforting soups to hearty one-pan dinners, these recipes are designed to make your cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free.

In this collection, we’ve curated a variety of recipes that cover different cuisines, flavors, and cooking techniques. Each recipe comes with easy-to-follow instructions and minimal ingredients, ensuring that you can confidently step into the kitchen and create delicious meals. Say goodbye to takeout and embrace the joy of preparing your own homemade dishes. Let’s make 2024 the year you become a kitchen maestro – no fancy skills required, just a willingness to learn and enjoy the art of cooking. Get ready to discover the pleasure of creating tasty meals from scratch!

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

Delight in the simplicity of making your own Hearty Marinara Sauce – an ideal starting point for beginners to craft a flavorful sauce for pasta or dipping without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Marinara Sauce

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

Beginners, rejoice! Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas simplify the Tex-Mex experience, offering a stress-free way to enjoy the bold flavors of enchiladas without the hassle. Let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting as you savor the delicious rewards.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

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

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs provide a straightforward introduction to the wonders of cooking with cast iron. A crispy, golden exterior and tender interior make this recipe a warm embrace for beginners, showcasing the magic of simple ingredients and a trusty pan.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Dinner

Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Dinner is a fuss-free, one-pan wonder designed for the kitchen novice. Packed with flavors and minimal cleanup, it’s a beginner’s invitation to the joy of uncomplicated yet delicious home-cooked meals.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage Dinner

Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger

For those taking their first steps in the kitchen, the Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger is a gentle introduction to the world of homemade soups. Its simplicity and the hint of ginger create a nurturing bowl for beginners to confidently dive into the joys of cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger

A plate with Italian chicken cutlets, mashed potatoes and lemons.
Italian Chicken Cutlets. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Italian Chicken Cutlets

Embark on your cooking journey with Italian Chicken Cutlets – a beginner-friendly recipe that brings the crispy comfort of breaded chicken to your kitchen. No complicated techniques, just a straightforward approach to achieving golden perfection.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken Cutlets

Bloody Mary Shrimp

Dive into the world of seafood with Bloody Mary Shrimp, a beginner-friendly dish that blends the zing of a classic cocktail with the succulence of shrimp. No mixology required – just a simple, flavorful way to elevate your shrimp game.
Get the Recipe: Bloody Mary Shrimp

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

Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken

Say hello to easy comfort with Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken – a beginner’s ticket to a creamy, flavorful dish without the kitchen chaos. Let your slow cooker do the work, and relish the warm, cheesy embrace of this stress-free recipe.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Chicken

Guacamole

This easy 4-ingredients guacamole recipe is made with creamy avocado, bright lime juice, and pico de gallo for an appetizer that’s super simple to make and so delicious!
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

For those venturing into Chinese-inspired cuisine, Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a beginner-friendly gateway. Experience the savory magic of tender beef and crisp broccoli with minimal effort – a warm invitation to the world of slow-cooked delights.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

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

Ground Beef Stir Fry

Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick, beginner-friendly introduction to the art of stir-frying. Skip the takeout and savor the simplicity of this dish, showcasing the ease of transforming ground beef and veggies into a flavorful, homemade stir fry.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry

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

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs provide a beginner-friendly path to savory, tender perfection. Let the slow cooker infuse your chicken with BBQ goodness, delivering a warm and satisfying dish without the complexity.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Mediterranean Grain Bowl

Elevate your beginner’s kitchen experience with a Mediterranean Grain Bowl – a wholesome, customizable dish that celebrates simplicity and vibrant flavors. Assemble a bowl of nourishing goodness without the need for complex techniques – a warm welcome to the world of grain bowls.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grain Bowl

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

Tortellini Soup

Dive into the world of Instant Pot magic with Tortellini Soup – a beginner’s introduction to the wonders of pressure cooking. Experience the joy of a hearty soup without the lengthy wait – a warm, flavorful embrace for those exploring the versatility of the Instant Pot.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Air Fryer Ham Steak

For beginners embracing the air fryer, Air Fryer Ham Steak is a simple yet delicious introduction. Enjoy the savory goodness of ham with a crispy exterior – a warm, inviting way to explore the possibilities of air frying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ham Steak

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

Black Bean Burger

In just 25 minutes, whip up a Black Bean Burger that’s a perfect starting point for beginners exploring plant-based delights. Skip the lengthy prep and savor the warm, satisfying embrace of a homemade burger that’s both quick and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Burger

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Need a quick, flavorful dinner but don’t have any time to cook? Slow cooker salsa chicken is the thing for you. This tender chicken simmered in your favorite salsa is a delicious addition to tacos, wraps, bowls, salads, and more!
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Roasted herbes de provence chicken with thyme and lemon slices on a white plate.
Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken

With Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken, beginners can savor the satisfaction of a beautifully seasoned dish without the fuss. An uncomplicated yet flavorful recipe, this roasted chicken is a warm welcome for those starting their culinary exploration.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Herbes de Provence Chicken

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

Caprese Chicken Bake

Caprese Chicken Bake is a warm and cheesy invitation for beginners to embrace the simplicity of Italian-inspired flavors. With just a few ingredients, experience the joy of a delicious, oven-baked masterpiece without the need for complex skills.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Chicken Bake

Navy Bean Soup

Discover the ease of cooking with the Instant Pot through Navy Bean Soup – a beginner’s entry into the world of hearty, comforting soups. Let the pressure cooker do the work as you savor the warm, flavorful embrace of this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Get the Recipe: Navy Bean Soup

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

For beginners seeking a nutritious and delicious meal, Salmon Quinoa Salad is a simple and satisfying choice. Embrace the ease of crafting a hearty, wholesome salad that celebrates the combination of flaky salmon and nutritious quinoa.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Quinoa Salad

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

Harvest Sheet Pan Dinner welcomes beginners to the world of easy, seasonal cooking. With a medley of roasted vegetables and your favorite protein, enjoy the simplicity of a one-pan meal that captures the warmth of the harvest season.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Sheet Pan Dinner

Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies

Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies make for a beginner-friendly, no-fuss dinner option. Discover the joy of a well-balanced meal with minimal cleanup – a warm and nutritious introduction to the simplicity of sheet pan cooking.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Veggies

Blackened Chicken Thighs

Blackened Chicken Thighs provide a flavorful kick for beginners exploring the world of spice. With a simple seasoning blend, this dish offers a warm and spicy embrace without the need for complex techniques.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Thighs

Blackened chicken tenders in a white dish.
Blackened Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Blackened Chicken Tenders

Embrace the flavors of a fast-food favorite at home with Blackened Chicken Tenders – a beginner-friendly approach to recreating the iconic Popeye’s taste. Skip the drive-thru and savor the warm, crispy delight of homemade blackened chicken tenders.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Tenders

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

For the beginner in the kitchen, this Chicken Pastina Soup offers a comforting introduction to homemade goodness. Simple and nourishing, it’s a warm bowl of easy triumph for those just starting their culinary journey.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pastina Soup

Tuna Pesto Pasta

Tuna Pesto Pasta is a quick and easy pasta dish perfect for beginners craving a burst of Mediterranean flavors. With the simplicity of canned tuna and vibrant pesto, savor the warmth of a delicious homemade pasta without the need for intricate techniques.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Pesto Pasta

Tortellini & Meatballs

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Tortellini & Meatballs – a beginner-friendly recipe that combines the rich flavors of pasta and savory meatballs. With minimal effort, experience the warmth of a hearty Italian-inspired dish without the need for advanced culinary skills.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini & Meatballs

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

Turkey Burger Sliders

Turkey Burger Sliders are a perfect choice for beginners looking to enjoy the savory goodness of sliders with a lighter twist. With simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation, experience the joy of crafting your own delicious sliders at home.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Burger Sliders

Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Instant Pot Chicken Stew is a beginner’s ticket to a hearty and flavorful meal in no time. Let the pressure cooker do the work as you savor the warm, comforting embrace of this simple yet satisfying stew.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Healthy Tuna salad without mayo sits on a bed of iceberg lettuce surrounded by two forks, dill, and a green linen.
Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Tuna Salad

This flavorful, healthy tuna salad recipe leaves out the traditional mayonnaise and instead uses dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil. You can make this tuna salad creamy with Greek yogurt, or keep it dairy free!
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad

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