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Can You Call Yourself a Cook if You’ve Never Made These 15 Dishes Before?

So, you’re thinking about stepping up your cooking game? Awesome! We’ve got 15 dishes that are perfect for anyone looking to expand their kitchen skills. These recipes cover everything from classics to exciting new flavors, so there’s something for everyone to try.

Ever wanted to make homemade spaghetti or cook chicken like a pro? Well, now’s your chance! These dishes aren’t just about feeding your belly; they’re about having fun and getting creative in the kitchen. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, there’s always something new to learn in the kitchen. With a little practice and enthusiasm, you’ll be whipping up these recipes like a pro in no time. What are you waiting for? Let’s start cooking up some deliciousness!

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Paprikash

If you haven’t cooked Chicken Paprikash yet, you’re missing out on a classic. It’s a staple in Eastern European cuisine, rich in flavor and comforting to the core. This dish teaches you the art of slow cooking, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that every cook should try at least once.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Mediterranean Cod

Cooking Mediterranean Cod is like taking a trip to the seaside without leaving your kitchen. It’s all about fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques that let the flavors shine. This dish is a must-try for anyone looking to explore Mediterranean cuisine. Don’t skip this recipe if you want to wander into a world of fresh tastes.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

A plate of chicken thighs.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Have you tried making Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs yet? They’re a fantastic way to get a delicious meal on the table quickly. The air fryer gives you a crispy, juicy chicken every time, and the honey garlic sauce is just the right mix of sweet and savory. This dish is a modern twist on classic flavors, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

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Pork Belly Burnt Ends

If you’re up for a cooking challenge, give these burnt ends a try. Pork Belly Burnt Ends are a treat you shouldn’t miss. They’re a perfect project for any cook looking to show off their BBQ skills. The process might be slow, but the result is worth every minute – tender, flavorful, and downright delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

This bake is all about combining simple ingredients for a delicious result. Mediterranean Chicken Bake is a dish that will bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for when you want something a bit different. It’s easy enough for beginners but fulfilling for seasoned cooks too.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

These tacos are perfect for a casual get-together or a special meal. Smoked Pork Belly Tacos are a fusion of flavors that are too good to pass up. They’re a brilliant way to showcase your skills with a smoker and your flair for combining ingredients. Each taco is a mini masterpiece, packed with taste and texture.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

Braised Beef Short Ribs with gravy and mashed potatoes.
Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

If you’re looking to impress with your culinary skills, this is the recipe to do it with. Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs are a dish that will test your patience but reward you with incredible flavors. It’s a deep dive into the art of braising, where slow cooking turns tough cuts into tender treats. Make sure to give these short ribs a spot on your cooking bucket list.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Baked Spanish Rice

Don’t forget about this recipe when you’re planning your next meal. Baked Spanish Rice is more than just a side dish; it’s an essential recipe for any cook. It teaches you how to infuse flavor into every grain, creating a side that’s as delicious as it is versatile. This rice is the perfect companion to a variety of main dishes, making it a go-to recipe.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Trying out Ham & Asparagus Pizza is a great way to shake up your pizza routine. It’s not your everyday pizza, and that’s what makes it exciting. The flavors work together in a way that’s both surprising and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just switching up your weeknight meals, this pizza fits the bill.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

If you haven’t made Authentic Hungarian Goulash yet, you’re missing out. It’s a hearty dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for a comforting meal. When you serve this, it’s like you’re bringing a bit of Hungary to your dinner table. It’s a great way to practice your stew-making skills.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops on a baby blue serving dish.
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

When you want something flavorful without a lot of fuss, these pork chops are the answer. Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops are a game-changer if you’re into tender, flavorful meat. They’re super easy to make and the slow cooker does most of the work. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

When you try making Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze, you’re in for a treat. The smoking process adds so much flavor, and the glaze brings a nice kick. It’s a bit of a project, but the result is so worth it. This dish is perfect for when you want to show off a bit at your next barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Million Dollar Spaghetti

If you want to make something a bit special, this spaghetti is a great choice. Million Dollar Spaghetti is one of those dishes that feels like a treat. It’s loaded with flavors and textures that make it stand out from your average pasta dish. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for when you’re looking to enjoy a treat for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Smoked Cauliflower

This recipe is a great choice when you want to impress with your grilling or smoking skills. Smoked Cauliflower is a standout dish that’ll change how you think about veggies. It’s perfect for a side dish or a vegetarian main. So, next time you’re firing up the smoker, consider giving this cauliflower a try.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower

Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Pasta Shells in a black cast iron dish.
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for when you want something a little different. Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto is a dish that brings a lot to the table. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it’s a nice change from more traditional stuffed shell recipes. It’s also a great way to show off your pasta skills.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

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