28 keeper recipes that’ll turn cooking into your new hobby

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Cooking doesn’t have to be a chore, and these recipes will show you that it can actually be something you enjoy. Whether it’s the simple steps or the rewarding feeling afterward, you might even start to love the process (yes, even chopping onions). Who knows, these recipes might just make cooking your favorite part of the day.

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken makes weeknight cooking feel less stressful. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have crispy chicken thighs cooked with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a creamy sauce that feels comfortable on a plate. It’s a great option for when you want a meal that’s filling without being too fussy. Pair it with some garlic bread or pasta, and you’re set.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

A dish of seasoned shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage slices, and potato chunks garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil keeps things simple but delicious. In under an hour, you’ll have a full meal of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, all roasted together in one pan. It’s seasoned with Old Bay for a kick of flavor, but the prep and cleanup couldn’t be easier. It is a great recipe for those nights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is perfect for nights when you want something quick but comforting. In just 30 minutes, chicken thighs are cooked in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce without being too heavy. Everything comes together in one pan, so cleanup is minimal. It’s a great recipe for busy evenings when you want a simple meal that feels like you put in some effort. Serve it with rice or veggies, and you have a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Baked Ravioli is the answer when you want something comforting but easy. With frozen cheese ravioli, marinara sauce, and a generous layer of cheese, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in an hour. It’s a great option for busy nights when you need a little break from the usual routine. If you’re thinking of making cooking a new hobby, this recipe will get you started — it’s simple, delicious, and doesn’t take much effort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is a great way to make cooking feel easy and fun. You’ll cook shrimp, spinach, tomatoes, and coconut milk in one pan, ready in 25 minutes. The flavors are fresh and light but still delicious. Serve it with rice or crusty bread to make it even more filling. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to get more comfortable cooking — it’s fast, simple, and tastes great.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

A hand holding a spoon serves a portion of fried rice mixed with beef, cabbage, and garnished with chopped herbs from a beige bowl.
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls streamline the classic dish into a one-pot meal, ready in just 1 hour. Start by browning ground beef and onions, then toss in cabbage, rice, and seasonings. Let it all simmer together for an easy, comforting dinner with minimal cleanup. Leftovers store well in the fridge or freezer, making this a great recipe to have on hand for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry in a skillet garnished with herbs.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This one-pan Sausage Curry is a perfect weeknight meal when you want something comforting but easy. Sausages and veggies cook together in a creamy curry sauce that’s rich and filling without being too heavy. It’s ready in 45 minutes and can be served with rice or naan for a complete meal. If you’re looking for a way to mix up your usual dinners, this is a great recipe to have on hand. It’s quick, flavorful, and might make cooking feel like something you enjoy doing more often.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake is an easy dish to make but feels comforting and special. Chicken thighs, spinach, and a creamy cheese sauce are all baked together, with everything ready in just 30 minutes. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are easy to follow, making it a great recipe for those who want easy cooking. You’ll feel like you’ve made something impressive without wasting too much time, and that’s the kind of confidence boost every new cook could use.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Reuben Bowls

A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Reuben Bowls take all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich and turn them into a low-carb meal that’s quick to make. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have corned beef, cabbage, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, all topped with Thousand Island dressing. It’s a great recipe for meal-prepping lunches or making a simple dinner when you don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking. If you’re looking for an easy way to enjoy your favorite flavors without stress, this recipe will make cooking feel less stressful.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled chicken pieces with a glossy glaze, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate.
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Grilled Hot Honey Chicken is sweet, spicy, and ready in about 45 minutes. The hot honey sauce is easy to make, and you can prepare it beforehand. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, even if you’re reheating leftovers. It’s a great recipe for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts, and it might even make you feel more confident about grilling. Whether you cook for yourself or others, this dish will make you want to fire up the grill more often.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Curry Salmon with Coconut Milk and Bok Choy

Curry salmon with coconut milk and bok choy in a bowl with a fork.
Curry Salmon with Coconut Milk and Bok Choy. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Curry Salmon with Coconut Milk and Bok Choy is a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The curry powder, coconut milk, and ginger bring big Asian flavors, while the salmon and bok choy keep it light and healthy. It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup quick and easy. It’s fast, flavorful, and doesn’t require much effort, which you need after a long day. Plus, it freezes well, so you can make it ahead for those nights when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Curry Salmon with Coconut Milk and Bok Choy

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is perfect for nights when you want something filling but don’t have much time. It’s ready in 30 minutes, made in one pot, and full of savory flavors from the sausage, cream cheese, and tomatoes. This soup will do the trick if you’re looking for a quick meal that still feels homemade. It’s simple to make, and you don’t need any fancy ingredients, which makes it a great recipe for anyone new to cooking. Plus, it’s hearty enough to enjoy alone or with some bread for extra comfort.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a great way to make veggies exciting again. With just a few simple ingredients — frozen veggies, cheese sauce, and bacon — you can have a great dish in 30 minutes. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday side. This recipe is a perfect start if you’re new to cooking and want something easy to pull together. It’s straightforward and delicious, showing that homemade meals can be simple and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Lemon Garlic Scallops

Scallops with parsley and garlic in a skillet.
Lemon Garlic Scallops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Lemon Garlic Scallops are perfect for something special but easy to make. The lemon and garlic bring out the scallops’ natural sweetness, and the whole dish is done in less than 30 minutes. It’s a great choice for busy nights or when you want to treat yourself. If you’re new to cooking, this recipe is a great way to boost your confidence in the kitchen. It’s simple, quick, and looks impressive without much effort — perfect for those who want to make cooking a fun new hobby.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs are flavorful and come together in 30 minutes. It’s made with ground turkey, coconut milk, and curry paste, and they bring a great depth of flavor without taking much time. This recipe is great for busy weeknights and a great choice if you’re trying to find joy in cooking again. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything’s done in one pan.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a great go-to when you need something fast but packed with flavor. The mustard sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken, spinach, and bacon, and it’s all done in 30 minutes. Cleanup is quick and easy, with everything cooked in one pan, making it perfect for busy nights. Whether you’re new to cooking or need a quick weeknight meal, this dish delivers without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet of creamy sun dried tomato chicken with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is a great option when you want something special without much effort. The creamy sauce made from heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes comes together quickly in one pan. It only takes about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal. This recipe is a great way to make cooking feel good again, especially if you’re looking for something easy to master but still feels rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Keto Zuppa Toscana delivers all the vibes of a classic Olive Garden soup in a low-carb version that’s ready in about an hour. The switch from potatoes to radishes keeps it lighter but still delicious, making it a perfect meal for anyone aiming to cut carbs without losing flavor. It’s easy to make, and the hearty sausage and creamy broth make it comforting enough for any time of year. If you’re trying to keep things simple while sticking to your diet, this soup is a great way to keep cooking stress-free and still delicious.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a pan.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts is a quick and flavorful meal ready in 30 minutes. The creamy sauce with tangy artichokes and a bit of lemon gives the dish a fresh balance without being too heavy. If you’re in a pinch and need a meal that feels a bit special, this recipe could help you enjoy cooking without feeling overwhelmed.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a gold spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a hearty, earthy soup you can make in less than an hour. Made in just one pot, it’s a simple choice for busy nights or lazy weekends. Start by cooking the mushroom, then allow it to simmer with the creamy and rich broth. It also has sour cream, which adds a little tang that pairs well with the mushrooms. If you want to make cooking more fun and less stressful, this soup is a great addition to your weekly lineup. Plus, fewer dishes mean more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a great weeknight meal in just 30 minutes. The creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce coats the chicken perfectly, giving it rich flavor without being too complicated. It’s versatile enough to serve over pasta, rice, or even veggies, depending on what you have on hand. This recipe is a great reminder that quick meals can still be full of flavor, and it’s the kind of dish that could make cooking a little more fun, even on your busiest days.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole simplifies the classic stuffed pepper recipe by skipping the stuffing and turning it into a one-pot meal. It’s great for busy weeknights, taking about 45 minutes to make. You get all the familiar flavors without the extra steps. It’s filling and family-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about cooking multiple dishes. This casserole is a great choice that could help you feel easier in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a flavorful, one-pot meal that takes everything you love about chicken pot pie and turns it into a creamy, comforting soup. It’s ready in an hour and full of chicken, veggies, and a rich broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Pair it with some bread or a light salad, and you have a family-friendly dinner with minimal cleanup. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s simple to make but still feels like comfort food, this soup could be a great way to make cooking more fun and less of a hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup makes cooking feel simple and comforting. Sweet potatoes and red peppers blend into a creamy, rich soup topped with sour cream and parsley for a little freshness. You can have it ready in about an hour, which is great when you want something filling but don’t have all day to spend in the kitchen. Perfect for a weeknight or weekend meal, this soup is an easy way to make cooking feel relaxing rather than stressful.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon gives you the best of everything — roasted veggies, crispy bacon, and a hint of freshness from spinach and red onion. Topping it with sour cream adds a nice touch that brings it all together. It’s ready in under an hour, which makes it great for busy nights when you still want a hearty meal. Whether serving it as a side or enjoying it on its own, this recipe shows how easy it can be to make something special without much time or stress.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tortellini Soup is one of those recipes that makes dinner easier and fun. It’s packed with chicken, tortellini, and veggies in a light broth, all coming together in 40 minutes. It’s filling enough for a full meal without needing anything else. Perfect for weeknights when time is tight, this recipe takes the stress out of cooking and reminds you that it doesn’t have to be complicated to make something great.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a lifesaver when you need something quick but want a home-cooked meal. Fried and tossed in a simple garlic butter sauce, the chicken turns tender and flavorful in just 20 minutes. Pair it with veggies or a salad, and you’ll have a full meal in no time. This recipe is quick, easy, and could be the recipe that turns cooking into something you enjoy doing after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This White Bean Soup makes weeknight dinners manageable without giving up on flavor or nutrition. It’s loaded with fiber from the beans and veggies and comes together in just 40 minutes. It’s a great option for something healthy but filling enough to keep you going. Plus, since it’s a one-pot meal, cleanup is a breeze. This recipe is a kind reminder that healthy eating doesn’t have to be difficult and is perfect for anyone looking to make cooking a little easier.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

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