18 Delicious Simple Recipes for Beginners

Diving into the kitchen for the first time can feel like stepping into a whole new world, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating! Our roundup of 18 Delicious Simple Recipes for Beginners is your golden ticket to whipping up quick, tasty meals with ease. Whether you’re craving cozy comfort food or fresh, seasonal bites, we’ve got something to make your cooking journey both fun and flavorful. Let’s get cooking!

Easy Homemade Pancakes

Start your morning with these fluffy, golden pancakes that promise to turn any breakfast into a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, sift together the 1 1/2 cups flour, 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar.
2. Make a well in the center and pour in the 1 1/4 cups milk, egg, and 3 tablespoons melted butter; mix until smooth.
3. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake.
5. Cook until bubbles form and the edges are dry, about 2 to 3 minutes. Flip and cook until browned on the other side, another 2 to 3 minutes.

These pancakes rise to perfection thanks to the precise balance of baking powder and sugar, creating a light texture with just the right amount of sweetness.

Tip: For extra fluffy pancakes, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking.

Quick and Simple Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Craving a comforting bowl of pasta but short on time? This Quick and Simple Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is your weeknight savior, ready in just about 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until garlic is golden but not browned.
3. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the oil. If needed, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce.
4. Remove from heat. Stir in salt, parsley, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.

The magic of this dish lies in the simplicity of its ingredients transforming into a deeply flavorful meal, with the spicy kick of red pepper flakes balancing the richness of olive oil and Parmesan.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the garlic slices lightly before adding them to the oil.

Basic Omelette with Cheese

Whipping up a Basic Omelette with Cheese is your ticket to a quick, satisfying meal any time of day. It’s fluffy, cheesy, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with salt and black pepper until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the butter, swirling to coat the pan.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, tilting to spread evenly. Let it cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds until the edges start to set.
4. Using a spatula, gently push the cooked edges toward the center, letting the uncooked eggs flow to the edges. Repeat until the omelette is mostly set but still slightly runny on top, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over one half of the omelette. Fold the other half over the cheese and cook for another 30 seconds to melt the cheese.
6. Slide the omelette onto a plate and serve immediately.

The magic of this omelette lies in its simplicity and the perfect melt of cheddar cheese, creating a creamy center that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy eggs.

Tip: For an extra fluffy omelette, add a splash of milk or water to the eggs before whisking.

Simple Garlic Butter Shrimp

Nothing beats the simplicity and flavor of garlic butter shrimp, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy appetizer, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
2. Add the 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
4. Stir in the 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, tossing to coat the shrimp evenly.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with the 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the garlic butter sauce, which is so good you’ll want to drizzle it over everything. Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Easy No-Knead Bread

Who knew that making artisan-quality bread at home could be so simple? This Easy No-Knead Bread requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and a perfect crusty exterior.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp active dry yeast.
2. Add 1 1/2 cups warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 12-18 hours.
3. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Place a 6-8 quart heavy covered pot (like a Dutch oven) in the oven as it heats.
4. Once the oven is preheated, carefully remove the pot. Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and shape it into a ball. Place the dough into the pot, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove the lid and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

The magic of this bread lies in its slow fermentation, which develops a depth of flavor and an irresistibly chewy texture. Perfect for tearing and sharing!

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, leave the bread in the turned-off oven with the door slightly ajar for 10 minutes after baking.

Quick Chocolate Mug Cake

Craving something sweet but short on time? This Quick Chocolate Mug Cake is your go-to for a decadent, single-serving dessert that’s ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/8 teaspoon salt until well combined.
2. Add 3 tablespoons milk, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is smooth.
3. If using, sprinkle 1 tablespoon chocolate chips on top of the batter.
4. Microwave on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds. The cake is done when it has risen and the top looks set.
5. Let it cool for a minute before digging in. The magic of this mug cake lies in its fudgy center and the convenience of making it right in your mug—no oven required!

Tip: For an extra indulgent treat, top your mug cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Simple Avocado Toast

Avocado toast is the ultimate quick and satisfying meal, perfect for breakfast or a light lunch. Here’s how to make it with a little extra flair.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of whole grain bread
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 eggs (optional)

Instructions

1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden and crisp.
2. While the bread is toasting, cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Add 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Mash with a fork until smooth but slightly chunky.
3. Spread the avocado mixture evenly over the toasted bread.
4. If using eggs, fry them to your liking in a pan with a little olive oil. Place one egg on top of each avocado toast.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional red pepper flakes if desired.

The creamy avocado paired with the crunch of toast and the optional runny egg creates a delightful contrast in textures that’s hard to resist.

Tip: For an extra kick, drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.

Easy Tomato Basil Soup

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of tomato basil soup, especially when it’s this easy to make. Perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe brings out the best in simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream until well combined.

The secret to this soup’s rich flavor? A splash of heavy cream at the end adds a luxurious texture that balances the tomatoes’ acidity beautifully.

Tip: For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with additional basil leaves before serving.

Basic Grilled Cheese Sandwich

There’s nothing quite like the crispy, buttery goodness of a classic grilled cheese sandwich. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s both simple to make and endlessly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of white bread
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter on one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bread.
4. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

The secret to the perfect grilled cheese lies in the slow melting of the cheese, creating a gooey center with a crisp, golden exterior.

Tip: For an extra crispy sandwich, cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking to steam the bread slightly before finishing it off uncovered for that perfect crunch.

Simple Roasted Chicken Thighs

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the crispy skin and juicy meat of perfectly roasted chicken thighs. This simple recipe lets the natural flavors shine with just the right amount of seasoning.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
3. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp paprika.
4. Rub 1 tbsp olive oil all over the chicken thighs, then evenly sprinkle the seasoning mix on both sides.
5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The magic of this recipe lies in the contrast between the crispy, seasoned skin and the tender, flavorful meat underneath. It’s a foolproof method that delivers impressive results every time.

Tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in those delicious juices.

Easy Stir-Fried Vegetables

Whip up this vibrant and crunchy stir-fry in just 15 minutes for a quick, healthy side that steals the show with its colorful veggies and savory sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (mixed colors)
• 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrot. Stir-fry for 5 minutes, until veggies are crisp-tender.
3. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and stir-fry for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Pour in 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil, then sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes and salt to taste. Toss everything together for another minute until well combined and heated through.

The magic of this stir-fry lies in the quick cooking that keeps the veggies brightly colored and full of crunch, while the sesame oil and red pepper flakes add a depth of flavor that’s irresistibly good.

Tip: For an extra protein boost, toss in some tofu or chicken with the veggies at the start of cooking.

Quick and Easy Scrambled Eggs

Start your morning off right with these fluffy, perfectly seasoned scrambled eggs that come together in just minutes.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and add the butter, letting it melt completely.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet. Let it sit undisturbed for about 20 seconds, then gently stir with a spatula, folding the eggs from the edges towards the center.
4. Continue stirring occasionally, allowing the eggs to form soft curds, for about 3-4 minutes until they’re just set but still slightly moist.
5. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.

The secret to these scrambled eggs is the low and slow cooking method, which ensures they’re creamy and tender every time.

Tip: For extra creamy eggs, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese with the butter.

Simple Pasta with Tomato Sauce

Nothing beats the comfort of a classic Simple Pasta with Tomato Sauce, especially when it’s this easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp sugar. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of sweetness from the sugar and the freshness of the basil, creating a sauce that’s vibrant and full of flavor.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Easy Banana Bread

There’s nothing like the comforting aroma of banana bread baking in the oven. This easy recipe is perfect for using up those overripe bananas and delivers a moist, flavorful loaf every time.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the 3 mashed bananas with 1/3 cup melted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 egg until well combined.
3. Stir in 1 cup sugar until the mixture is smooth.
4. In another bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, being careful not to overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

The secret to this banana bread’s irresistible texture? The perfect balance of moisture from the bananas and a tender crumb from the careful mixing of ingredients.

Tip: For an extra treat, sprinkle some chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top before baking.

Basic Caesar Salad

Nothing beats the classic Caesar Salad for a quick, satisfying meal. It’s crisp, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect side or main dish.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 anchovy fillet, minced (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, egg yolk, and minced anchovy fillet until well combined.
2. Add the chopped romaine lettuce to the bowl and toss until the leaves are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and croutons over the salad and toss lightly to combine.
4. Serve immediately, ensuring each plate gets a generous amount of cheese and croutons.

The secret to this Caesar Salad’s depth of flavor lies in the anchovy-infused dressing, which adds a savory umami kick without overpowering the dish.

Tip: For an extra crispy texture, toast the croutons in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.

Simple Beef Tacos

These Simple Beef Tacos are a weeknight hero, combining juicy beef with vibrant toppings for a meal that’s as fun to assemble as it is to eat.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup water
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in water and simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Divide beef mixture among tortillas. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.

The secret to these tacos is the simmering step, which locks in the spices and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture while cooking.

Easy Homemade Pizza Dough

Nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling a bubbly, golden pizza out of the oven, especially when it’s made from scratch with this foolproof dough recipe.

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 envelope (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 envelope instant yeast, and 2 teaspoons salt.
2. Make a well in the center and pour in 1 1/2 cups warm water and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil, place the dough inside, and cover with a damp towel. Let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a 12-inch circle or your desired thickness.
6. Preheat your oven to 475°F with a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet inside. Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the toppings are bubbly.

This dough’s secret? The perfect balance of olive oil and yeast creates a crust that’s crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, just like your favorite pizzeria.

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.

Quick and Simple Fruit Smoothie

Start your morning with this Quick and Simple Fruit Smoothie, a vibrant blend that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, ready in just minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen mixed berries
• 1 ripe banana, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine 1 cup frozen mixed berries, the sliced banana, 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt, 1/2 cup almond milk, 1 tbsp honey, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high speed for about 1 minute, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more almond milk and blend again.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

This smoothie stands out with its perfect balance of sweetness from the honey and a tangy kick from the mixed berries, making it a refreshing start to any day.

Tip: For an extra nutrient boost, add a handful of spinach or kale; you’ll barely taste it, but you’ll get all the benefits!

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 delicious, simple recipes inspires your next kitchen adventure! Perfect for beginners, each dish is a stepping stone to becoming a more confident cook. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for easy access. Happy cooking, and here’s to many tasty meals ahead!