Easy peasy recipes for the cooking challenged: 13 dishes you can’t mess up (we promise)

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If you’re someone who feels a bit lost in the kitchen, don’t worry; you’re not alone. Cooking can seem tricky, but there are ways to make it much easier. That’s why there’s a list of super simple dishes just for folks who aren’t too sure about their cooking skills. These recipes are all about keeping things straightforward, using a few ingredients and easy steps. Check out these easy-peasy recipes for the cooking challenge—you’ve got 13 dishes you can’t mess up, we promise!

A hand holding a cut steak quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Pizza Pasta Salad

A platter of pizza pasta salad served on a white rectangular dish.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

When you can’t decide between pizza and pasta salad, why not have both? Pizza Pasta Salad combines all your favorite pizza toppings with pasta in a dish that’s perfect for gatherings. It’s as fun to make as it is to eat, and it’s a hit at any table. This recipe is a game-changer for picnics and potlucks. And the best part? It’s super easy to put together.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever heard of Beefy John Wayne Casserole? It’s like a hug in the form of food, combining ground beef, cheese, and a bunch of other comforting ingredients. This dish is your go-to when you need something hearty and satisfying. It’s surprisingly simple to put together, making it perfect for busy evenings. Plus, it’s named after John Wayne, so you know it has to be good.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp served on a white rectangular dish.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

If you’ve ever wished you could make your takeout favorites at home, Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is a great place to start. It’s a simple way to recreate a beloved dish without needing to go out. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes every bite a treat. Plus, making it at home means you can enjoy it anytime you want. It’s a treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings without all the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Got some turkey leftovers? Turkey à la King is here to save the day. This recipe is a clever way to give the leftover turkey a delicious makeover. It’s creamy, comforting, and can be ready in no time. Whether you’re looking to feed your family or impress unexpected guests, this dish has got you covered. It’s comfort food that’s simple, quick, and utterly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When life hands you lemons, make Chicken Piccata! This recipe transforms chicken into a tangy and irresistible meal. With a lovely lemon sauce, it’s a meal that feels fancy without all the hard work. It’s the kind of dinner that you can whip up on any weekday to wow your family. Not to mention, the cleanup is just as easy as the cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you pair pork with apples, something magical happens. Roast Pork with Apples is the kind of dish that makes an ordinary day feel special. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, and the results are always mouthwatering. This recipe is all about getting that perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of Mexican carne molida with lime wedges served on a wooden table with a striped cloth on the side.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving something with a bit of Mexican flair? Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef is as tasty as it is easy to make. This ground beef dish is the perfect base for tacos, nachos, or even just served over rice. It’s a simple recipe that packs a lot of flavors, making weeknight dinners something to look forward to. Fast, easy, and delicious – what more could you ask for?
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re all about minimal effort with maximum flavor, then Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is your kind of recipe. Just throw chicken, lemon, and rosemary on a sheet pan and let the oven do its magic. This dish is perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a meal that’s full of flavor. It’s a fuss-free way to get dinner on the table, leaving you more time to relax. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen is absolutely heavenly.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Love the indulgence of Olive Garden’s pasta dishes? Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo can be made in your kitchen with ease. This recipe brings together creamy Alfredo sauce and tender shrimp for a truly comforting meal. It’s a straightforward way to add a touch of Italian elegance to your weeknight dinners. And the best part is, it’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you ever dined out for it.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For those evenings when you’re feeling a bit fancy but still want to keep things easy, Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter is the way to go. The cowboy butter melts into the steak, taking it from good to great. It’s a simple trick that adds a ton of flavor with very little effort. Whether it’s date night or you’re just looking to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, who doesn’t love a good steak?
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A hand holding a fork over a bowl of Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka on a wooden table.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

If pasta in a rich, creamy sauce is your kind of meal, then Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka is perfect for you. It tastes like it came straight out of a restaurant kitchen, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Impress your guests or just treat yourself with this luxurious dish. The simplicity of this recipe means you get to enjoy gourmet flavors without all the effort. So why wait for a night out to indulge?
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding a cut steak quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Don’t let that leftover steak sit in the fridge; turn it into a mouthwatering Leftover Steak Quesadilla instead. It’s a genius way to repurpose leftovers, making them even better the second time around. With just a few extra ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in minutes. This recipe is perfect for an easy lunch or a quick dinner. Plus, it’s a tasty reminder that leftovers can be anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to whip up and incredibly satisfying, look no further. With orzo, shrimp, and a medley of Mediterranean flavors, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is a refreshing choice for any meal. It’s perfect for those warm days when you crave something light yet fulfilling. The mix of juicy shrimp and pasta makes every bite a treat. This recipe proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

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