Are you tired of the same old dishes and wanting to take your cooking skills to the next level? Look no further! As a home chef, you’re probably always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to add to your repertoire. That’s why we’ve curated this list of 20 Flavorful Serious Eats Best Recipes that are sure to impress.
From classic comfort foods like creamy mac and cheese and decadent chocolate soufflé, to international inspirations such as Sichuan dan dan noodles and authentic chicken tikka masala, these recipes will take you on a culinary journey around the world. And with a range of cooking techniques and ingredient combinations, there’s something for every skill level and taste.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these mouth-watering dishes and provide you with the secrets to making them shine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, get ready to elevate your cooking game with these Serious Eats Best Recipes.
Perfect Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter
Perfect Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter: Elevate your steak game with this simple yet impressive recipe that yields a tender and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 steaks (depending on size), preferably ribeye or strip loin, at room temperature
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Season the steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of oil to the preheated skillet. Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the steaks from the skillet and top each with a pat of garlic butter (about 1 tablespoon).
6. Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time:
– Rare: 2-3 minutes per side
– Medium-rare: 3-4 minutes per side
– Medium: 4-5 minutes per side
Crispy Roast Chicken with Lemon and Herbs
Elevate your roast chicken game with this zesty and aromatic recipe, featuring a crispy skin and juicy meat infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ultimate Creamy Mac and Cheese
Get ready to satisfy your comfort food cravings with this rich and creamy macaroni and cheese recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This indulgent dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted 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. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
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
Foolproof New York-Style Pizza Dough
A classic New York-style pizza requires a crust that’s crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. This recipe yields a perfectly imperfect dough that’s sure to please even the most discerning pizza enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it’s sticky but not too sticky.
5. Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
6. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone or pizza stone inside.
7. Punch down the dough, shape into desired pizza form, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Beef Bourguignon
Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe
This hearty French stew is a rich and flavorful dish made with tender beef, mushrooms, onions, and vegetables cooked in red wine. With its deep, dark color and velvety texture, it’s a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, carrots, celery, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to pot; cover and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy buttermilk pancakes smothered in pure Canadian maple syrup.
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
– 2 large eggs
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time to the wet ingredients, whisking well after each addition.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sichuan Dan Dan Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this spicy and savory noodle dish, inspired by the classic street food from Chengdu. This recipe combines chewy noodles with a rich and numbing sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g dan dan noodles (or substitute with thin rice noodles)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, Sichuan peppercorns, chili bean paste, peanuts, garlic, and vegetable oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the sauce in a wok or large skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked noodles to the sauce and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, ensuring noodles are well coated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce
Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork with BBQ Sauce Recipe
Experience the tender and flavorful joy of slow-cooked pulled pork, elevated by a rich and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce and water.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the pork into tender strands.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Decadent Chocolate Soufflé
This rich and indulgent dessert is a showstopper at any dinner party, and the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 ounces (60g) high-quality dark chocolate, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
– 3 large egg whites
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with granulated sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted chocolate, salt, and milk until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and flour. Add the chocolate mixture and whisk until combined.
4. In a separate, clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold into the chocolate mixture.
5. Pour batter into prepared soufflé dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Fresh Pasta with Sage Butter
This classic Italian recipe combines the comfort of fresh pasta with the earthy sweetness of sage and butter. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and impressive dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet.
4. Cook pasta in boiling, salted water for 2-3 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage leaves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sage butter. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala
Experience the bold flavors of India with this classic recipe, a staple in many British-Indian households.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne (if using). Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. In a large skillet, heat ghee or oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a baking dish.
5. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Serve chicken with tomato sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Golden Crispy Fish and Chips
Golden Crispy Fish and Chips Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this mouthwatering fish and chips recipe, featuring golden-brown beer-battered fish served alongside crispy, fluffy chips (fries).
Ingredients:
– 4-6 fish fillets (cod or haddock work well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup cold beer
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chips
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and malt vinegar for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
3. Gradually add beer while whisking until smooth batter forms.
4. Dip fish fillets into the batter, coating evenly.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry battered fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, toss potato chips with salt to taste.
8. Bake chips in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
9. Serve fish and chips hot, garnished with lemon wedges and malt vinegar if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rich and Creamy Lobster Bisque
Rich and Creamy Lobster Bisque Recipe
This decadent lobster bisque recipe combines succulent chunks of lobster with aromatic vegetables and a rich, creamy broth, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. With its velvety texture and bold flavors, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (jumbo lump)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add clam juice, heavy cream, white wine, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in lobster meat and cook until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Summary: This simple recipe yields tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts infused with the rich flavor of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the sprouts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
7. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with cooked bacon, garlic (if using), and any pan juices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes
These tender and fluffy pancakes are a staple of Japanese breakfast cuisine, perfect for stacking with fresh fruits and whipped cream. This recipe yields a batch of 6-8 delicate soufflés that will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and sugar until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and whisk until just combined.
4. Fold in the melted butter until fully incorporated.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Beef Chili with Beans
A hearty and flavorful chili that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering. This recipe combines tender beef, smoky spices, and creamy beans for a deliciously comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Light and Airy Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this simple yet impressive light and airy chocolate mousse recipe, perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, creamy, and decadent treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.
3. In another mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold into the whipped cream.
4. Melted chocolate should still be slightly warm; fold it gently into the egg-whip mixture until well combined.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Garlicky Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this Garlicky Shrimp Scampi with Linguine is a great option for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz linguine pasta
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid 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 to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper.
6. Add reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet and toss with cooked linguine and shrimp mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup
Classic French Onion Soup Recipe
A quintessential French dish, French onion soup is a rich and flavorful soup made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with melted cheese and croutons. This recipe yields a deliciously simple yet elegant meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 slices of baguette, toasted and cubed
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add salt, white wine (if using), and beef broth to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each bowl with toasted croutons and grated Gruyère cheese.
5. Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Banana Bread with Walnuts
Transform your ordinary banana bread into an extraordinary treat by incorporating the deep, sweet flavor of caramelized bananas and the crunch of walnuts. This moist and flavorful loaf is perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Caramelize the bananas by cooking them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender (about 10 minutes).
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In another bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
5. Add the caramelized bananas to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
6. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
7. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
8. Pour into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 mouth-watering recipes from Serious Eats! From classic comfort food like creamy mac and cheese to international flavors like Sichuan dan dan noodles, there’s something for every palate. Indulge in decadent desserts like chocolate soufflé or caramelized banana bread, or try your hand at more complex dishes like beef bourguignon or authentic chicken tikka masala. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire and delight.
