Are you tired of relying on takeout and store-bought treats? Look no further! We’ve got a collection of 20 mouthwatering homemade recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic comfort foods to international inspirations, these dishes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for the weekend, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite homemade recipes, each with its own unique twist and flavor profile. From hearty stews and savory pasta dishes to sweet treats and indulgent desserts, there’s something for everyone. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to cook up a storm! In this article, we’ll be featuring recipes such as Homemade Chicken Pot Pie, Classic Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese, and many more.
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
This classic comfort food recipe is a twist on the traditional pot pie, featuring tender chicken, flaky crust, and a rich, creamy filling. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Roll out the pie crust and fill with the chicken mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese
A traditional Italian staple that never goes out of style, this homemade spaghetti bolognese is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich meat sauce and al dente pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lb spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the minced beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine the cooked spaghetti and bolognese sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta
A classic Italian dish, this homemade pesto pasta recipe is a simple yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic Italian-inspired meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until well combined.
4. Add reserved pasta water to pesto and process until desired consistency is reached.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with pesto sauce, adding more pasta water if needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these soft and chewy homemade chocolate chip cookies, made with simple ingredients and a touch of love.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Beef and Vegetable Stew
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade beef and vegetable stew, perfect for a cozy evening or a busy weeknight meal. This recipe is easy to make and packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and aromatic flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the beef over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
3. Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs (if desired).
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Homemade Buttermilk Pancakes
Savor the taste of homemade pancakes with this simple recipe that yields fluffy, flavorful pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk (or make your own by mixing 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for 5 minutes)
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Add melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs to the dry mixture. Whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes, depending on the number of pancakes made.
Homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Experience the classic flavors of Italy with this simple and delicious recipe for garlic butter shrimp scampi. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a romantic evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fettuccine or other pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this rich and creamy homemade macaroni and cheese recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan 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.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Banana Bread
This classic recipe yields a moist and delicious banana bread that’s perfect for snacking, serving with a cup of coffee, or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Homemade Margherita Pizza
Bring a taste of Italy into your home with this simple recipe for classic margherita pizza. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a deliciously authentic Italian-style pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
6. Top the dough with crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil leaves (if using).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this simple recipe that combines tender beef, crunchy tacos, and a fresh homemade salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh Salsa (recipe below)
Fresh Salsa Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by your favorite toppings.
6. Serve with fresh salsa, made by combining all the ingredients in a bowl and stirring to combine.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve Hot!
Homemade Blueberry Muffins
Moist and flavorful, these homemade blueberry muffins are perfect for breakfast or a snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
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, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
This timeless recipe is a staple for any occasion, providing a warm and soothing remedy for when you’re feeling under the weather or just need a comforting meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this homemade chicken noodle soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add noodles and cook according to package instructions.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Start your day off right with these soft, gooey cinnamon rolls slathered in a tangy cream cheese frosting. This classic treat is easy to make and perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (see note)
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add warm water and stir until dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over dough.
6. Roll up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
Bake at 375°F for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spread over warm cinnamon rolls.
Homemade Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
A quick and flavorful vegetarian stir-fry recipe that combines the nutty taste of tofu with a variety of colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the bell pepper and mixed vegetables to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic to create a mouthwatering roasted chicken. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Apple Pie with Flaky Crust
Experience the warmth and comfort of a homemade apple pie with this simple recipe. With a flaky crust and tender apples, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
For the filling:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture. Gradually add water until dough forms.
3. Roll out crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and dot with butter.
4. Roll out remaining crust to fit top of pie. Crimp edges to seal.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Beef Burger with Secret Sauce
Elevate your burger game with this mouthwatering recipe featuring a juicy beef patty and a tangy, savory secret sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Secret Sauce (recipe below)
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, and any other toppings you desire
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form 4 equal-sized patties.
4. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast buns on grill or in toaster.
6. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, and Secret Sauce.
Secret Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (5-6 minutes per side for burgers)
Homemade Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful recipe, featuring tender spinach and ricotta-filled shells smothered in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Discover the joy of making your own creamy vanilla bean ice cream from scratch! This classic recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and some patience, but the reward is well worth it.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling (around 170°F).
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes with the vanilla bean.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the vanilla bean.
5. Cover the container and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chilling time included)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 delicious homemade recipes, perfect for every occasion! From comfort food classics like chicken pot pie and beef stew, to sweet treats like chocolate chip cookies and banana bread, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making a fresh basil pesto pasta or garlic butter shrimp scampi, or go all out with a show-stopping apple pie or cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
