Getting started with cooking can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to trying out new recipes. But what if we told you that you don’t need a culinary degree or a pantry full of exotic spices to create delicious dishes? With just two ingredients, you can whip up a variety of tasty treats that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic comfort foods to sweet indulgences, our list of 18 simple 2-ingredient recipes is perfect for beginners looking to expand their culinary repertoire. Say goodbye to complicated cookbooks and hello to easy-peasy meals that can be prepared in no time. Whether you’re a student living off-campus or just trying to get your daily dose of nutrition, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
Peanut Butter Cookies
A classic favorite, these peanut butter cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with nutty flavor. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they’re easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg until well mixed.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Banana Ice Cream
Transform ripe bananas into a creamy, dreamy ice cream without an ice cream maker! This recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the sweetness of summer.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel and slice the bananas into coins.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the banana slices, heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow it to chill and thicken.
5. Once chilled, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake treat.
Chocolate Fudge
A rich and creamy treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This classic recipe yields a batch of smooth, velvety fudge that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 16 ounces (450g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and salt. Pour into prepared dish and let set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
5. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Fresh fruit and syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the batter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
7. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Omelette
A simple and elegant breakfast or brunch option that can be customized with your favorite fillings. This classic omelette recipe yields a fluffy and flavorful dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional fillings: diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms), shredded cheese (Cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan), cooked meats (bacon, ham)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter in a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Tilt the pan to allow the uncooked egg to flow to the top.
5. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the edges of the omelette towards the center, allowing the uncooked egg to flow underneath.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the eggs are almost set.
7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and add your desired fillings.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Guacamole
Classic Guacamole Recipe
Get ready to experience the creamy, tangy goodness of authentic guacamole!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocados until mostly smooth.
3. Add the chopped red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and garlic to the mashed avocado.
4. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Serve: Scoop into tortilla chips or use as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Yogurt Popsicles
Beat the heat with these refreshing yogurt popsicles, perfect for kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 10-12 popsicle sticks
– Optional flavorings (e.g., vanilla extract, honey, or fruit purees)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, sugar, and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or add flavorings as desired.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top for expansion.
4. Insert popsicle sticks and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Once set, remove from molds and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4+ hours (depending on desired consistency)
Tips:
– For a creamier treat, use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt.
– Experiment with different flavorings to create unique popsicle flavors!
Mac and Cheese
Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
This comforting recipe yields a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a warm, satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
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 medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Bread
This simple recipe yields a deliciously soft and fluffy loaf of bread, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast
– 1 cup of warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by adding warm water and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Scrambled Eggs
Start your day off right with a fluffy and flavorful scrambled egg dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together until well beaten.
2. Heat the butter or non-stick cooking spray in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently scramble the eggs, breaking them up into small curds.
5. Continue cooking and scrambling the eggs for another 2-3 minutes, until they’re cooked through and fluffy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Chocolate Mousse
A classic French dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make, this chocolate mousse is a decadent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark or semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and sugar until frothy. Add the vanilla extract and continue whisking until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the egg mixture until well combined.
5. Melted chocolate should be at room temperature. Fold it gently into the egg-whipped cream mixture until a smooth, creamy consistency is achieved.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Servings: 6-8
Enjoy your rich and creamy chocolate mousse!
Pasta with Butter
A classic comfort food recipe that requires minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a rich and satisfying flavor profile. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
3. Once melted, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the butter mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hard-Boiled Eggs
A simple yet essential recipe for a staple snack or addition to many dishes. With just a few minutes of preparation and cooking time, you’ll have perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs every time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 eggs
– Water
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the eggs in a single layer at the bottom of a saucepan or pot.
2. Add enough cold water to cover the eggs by about an inch.
3. Add salt if desired, but it’s not necessary for cooking.
4. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes for large eggs or 6-8 minutes for small/medium eggs.
6. Remove the eggs from the water with a slotted spoon and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.
7. Let sit in the ice bath for at least 5 minutes before peeling.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (large eggs), 6-8 minutes (small/medium eggs)
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A Classic Comfort Food Recipe: Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Fruit Smoothie
Beat the heat with this quick and easy fruit smoothie recipe! Made with a blend of juicy fruits, creamy yogurt, and a hint of honey, this refreshing treat is perfect for a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen berries, sliced banana, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Rice Krispie Treats
Bring back childhood memories with these simple and delicious treats made with just a few ingredients. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of chewy, crunchy, and addictive Rice Krispie treats perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 12 tablespoons marshmallows
– Optional: food coloring, sprinkles, or other mix-ins
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until well coated.
4. If desired, add food coloring, sprinkles, or other mix-ins to the mixture.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool and set for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
Pumpkin Muffins
Pumpkin Muffins Recipe
Introduction: Warm up your fall mornings with a batch of moist and flavorful Pumpkin Muffins, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Elevate your dessert game with this classic combination of fresh strawberries and rich chocolate. This simple recipe yields a decadent treat perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 strawberries, hulled and washed
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (like Crisco or vegetable shortening)
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
3. Place the coated strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack set over a piece of parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on refrigerator time)
Summary
Discover the simplicity of cooking with just two ingredients! This article features 18 mouth-watering recipes that require minimal effort and maximum flavor. From sweet treats like Peanut Butter Cookies and Chocolate Fudge to savory dishes like Mac and Cheese and Grilled Cheese Sandwich, these easy-to-make recipes are perfect for beginners. Plus, indulge in indulgent desserts like Banana Ice Cream and Yogurt Popsicles or enjoy a refreshing Fruit Smoothie. With only two ingredients needed per recipe, cooking has never been easier! Get started with these simple yet satisfying dishes today!
