27 homemade meals to replace the prepared foods in your diet

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Ever get tired of the same old store-bought meals and want to spice up your diet? Well, good news! There are 27 awesome homemade meals waiting to jazz up your plate and will satisfy your cravings. Say goodbye to the usual suspects in your grocery cart and say hello to delicious homemade goodness. Think hearty dishes, vibrant stir-fries, and delicious baked meals – all simple to whip up in your own kitchen. So, get that apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a delicious moment at home that will have you savoring every bite!

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

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

Enjoy the perfect blend of sweetness and savory goodness with these air-fried honey garlic chicken thighs. The crispy exterior and juicy insides make for a mouthwatering combination that’ll have you ditching the pre-packaged options. Simple to make and bursting with flavor, this homemade dish is a delicious twist on the classic chicken.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Shrimp Scampi on a bed of rice in a black oval dish.
Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrade your dinner with the zesty kick of garlic shrimp scampi. Quick and easy, this dish is a flavor-packed alternative to mundane prepared foods. The succulent shrimp, combined with a garlic-infused sauce, creates a delicious meal that proves homemade is always better. Say farewell to the freezer aisle and embrace the simplicity of crafting this tasty shrimp scampi in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transport your senses to the Mediterranean with this simple yet flavorful cod dish. Say goodbye to the routine of store-bought meals and welcome the light and fresh essence of Mediterranean cod. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this homemade meal offers a delicious escape from the ordinary, making it a delicious addition to your weekly menu.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

A platter of pork carnitas board on a wooden table.
Slow Cooker Carnitas Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Break away from the ordinary with a slow cooker carnitas board that’s perfect for sharing. Skip the ready-made options and opt for this homemade feast, featuring succulent slow-cooked carnitas paired with various toppings. This flavorful and communal meal is a great way to replace packaged convenience with the joy of creating a delicious spread for your loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

Smoked Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs on a cutting board with tomatoes.
Smoked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoky, juicy, and packed with flavor – these smoked chicken thighs are a game-changer for anyone tired of the same old pre-packaged choices. The process of smoking adds a depth of taste that’s hard to find in store-bought meals. Ditch the routine and embrace the simplicity of crafting these delicious smoked chicken thighs in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Thighs

Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry on a counter.
Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Trade in the boredom for the delicious with homemade turkey pot pies featuring flaky puff pastry. These comforting pot pies offer a hearty alternative to the usual store-bought options. Loaded with savory goodness, this dish is a tasty reminder that homemade is not only easy but also a flavorful upgrade for your dinner table. Say farewell to the freezer section and savor the joy of indulging in these turkey pot pies straight from your oven.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a simple and delicious pasta dish? Look no further than this homemade sausage and broccoli rabe pasta. Say goodbye to the monotony of store-bought meals and embrace the easy elegance of this flavorful combination. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious pasta that beats the blandness of pre-packaged options any day.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

A closeup shot of two tacos filled with smoked pork belly and vegetables.
Smoked Pork Belly Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your taco night with the smoky goodness of homemade smoked pork belly tacos. The rich, smoky flavor combined with the simplicity of crafting them at home makes these tacos a must-try for anyone looking to break free from the routine of packaged meals.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

Chicken & Corn Chowder

Two bowls of soup on a table.
Chicken & Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm up your evenings with a comforting bowl of homemade chicken and corn chowder. Say goodbye to the blandness of pre-packaged soups and savor the rich flavors of this hearty chowder. With simple ingredients and a homemade touch, this dish provides a cozy alternative to the usual store-bought options. So, trade in convenience for flavor and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness that will keep you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Chicken & Corn Chowder

Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Two large bowls of tortellini with meatballs on a counter.
Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrade your pasta game with the simplicity of Blackstone tortellini and meatballs. Tired of the same old store-bought pasta dishes? Dive into the world of homemade goodness with this flavorful combination. The ease of preparation and delicious outcome make this a go-to alternative for those looking to replace packaged convenience with a touch of homemade delight.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak

A top-down shot of Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak on a cutting board with veggies.
Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your steak game with the mouthwatering flavor of grilled ribeye cap steak. Say goodbye to mundane store-bought cuts and welcome the simplicity of grilling up this delicious steak at home. The juicy tenderness and robust taste make this a standout choice for those looking to replace packaged meals with a homemade twist. So, fire up the grill and enjoy a steak that’s sure to satisfy your cravings without the fuss of store-bought options.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ribeye Cap Steak

Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

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

Break away from the ordinary with garlic-braised beef short ribs that promise a flavor explosion. Tired of the same old pre-packaged options? Embrace the simplicity of braising these succulent short ribs at home. The rich, savory taste and fall-off-the-bone tenderness make this dish a standout alternative to the usual store-bought fare. So, trade in the routine for a burst of homemade flavor that will have you savoring every bite.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Braised Beef Short Ribs

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your quesadilla game with the bold flavors of chicken al pastor. Say adios to mundane store-bought options and welcome the excitement of crafting these flavorful quesadillas at home. The fusion of smoky chicken and vibrant spices creates a delicious alternative to pre-packaged convenience. So, ditch the ordinary, grab your ingredients, and indulge in the joy of homemade quesadillas that will keep you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Smoked Meatballs

Smoked meatballs in a dish with grilled bread.
Smoked Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a smoky twist to your meatball game with these homemade smoked meatballs. Tired of the same old frozen options? Say goodbye to the freezer aisle and embrace the simplicity of crafting these flavorful meatballs at home. The smoky infusion takes this classic dish to a whole new level, making it a delicious alternative for those looking to replace packaged convenience with the satisfaction of homemade goodness. So, roll up those meatballs and enjoy a smoky flavor that will have you savoring each bite without the need for store-bought alternatives.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs

Dutch oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A tender shreds of pork cooked to perfection in your very own Dutch oven. These Carnitas bring a burst of savory delight that easily outshines any pre-packaged alternative. Say farewell to the usual store-bought suspects in your cart and welcome the homemade goodness that’ll have you do a happy dance.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ready for a flavor explosion? Enter Pork Belly Burnt Ends – a divine mix of crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness. It’s time to bid adieu to those typical store-bought snacks; these homemade wonders are a taste revelation that’ll make you rethink reaching for processed options. Your cravings deserve something extraordinary, and these Burnt Ends deliver just that.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a taste of Italy without the fuss? Look no further than this straightforward Italian Chicken dish. Forget about uninspiring ready-made meals; this homemade recipe is your ticket to a flavorful dinner that’ll transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Say arrivederci to bland dinners, and welcome the joy of homemade meals replacing the usual prepared foods in your daily lineup.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

Smoked Tomahawk Steak

A sliced Tomahawk Steak on a cream color plate.
Smoked Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Level up your dinner with the Smoked Tomahawk Steak. The smoky aroma and rich flavors of this homemade masterpiece easily outshine any pre-packaged steaks you’ve been settling for. It’s time to say goodbye to convenience-store dinners and embrace the joy of crafting your own delicious and worthwhile meals at home.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomahawk Steak

Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Seafood Stuffed Salmon on a circular white plate.
Seafood Stuffed Salmon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Experience the deliciousness of homemade Seafood Stuffed Salmon. Bursting with flavor, it’s a seafood lover’s dream come true. Say farewell to the frozen fish dinners you’ve been tolerating, and embrace the simplicity and freshness of crafting your own meals. Homemade goodness is the key to a healthier and more pleasing diet, replacing those prepared foods with a touch of magic.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Seeking comfort in simplicity? Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are the answer. A delicious, cheesy delight awaits, leaving any frozen stuffed pasta options behind. Say goodbye to bland and hello to a quick, homemade feast that’s sure to become a regular in your weekly lineup. These shells are here to prove that homemade meals can easily replace the mundane, prepared foods you’ve grown tired of.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

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

Convenience meets flavor in Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops. Toss everything in, let it simmer, and voilà – a delicious homemade meal without the hassle. Wave goodbye to those bland microwave dinners; this recipe is your shortcut to effortless and flavorful dining. Let your slow cooker be the hero, replacing the usual prepared foods with a simple yet hearty homemade alternative.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Lobster Chowder

A bowl of lobster chowder with bread on the side.
Lobster Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a taste of the coast? Lobster Chowder to the rescue. Creamy, rich, and brimming with seafood goodness, it easily outshines any canned soup you might have considered. Upgrade your cooking experience with this simple yet indulgent homemade chowder, bidding farewell to uninspiring, store-bought options and embracing the joy of homemade meals in your daily menu.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Chowder

Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Chicken Marsala Meatballs in a black dish.
Chicken Marsala Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Give yourself an Italian twist with Chicken Marsala Meatballs. These homemade delights pack a flavorful punch, surpassing any frozen meatballs you might have settled for. It’s a quick, easy way to elevate your meatball game and say goodbye to the mundane, pre-packaged options that lack that homemade touch. Ready to transform your dinners with the simplicity and joy of homemade meals?
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked sliced ham on a cutting board.
Smoked Carver Ham. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a ham that steals the spotlight? Smoked Carver Ham is the answer. Move over, store-bought ham; this smoky, flavorful delight will have you hooked. Say hello to a homemade ham experience that’s bound to become a favorite, leaving those packaged options in the dust. Ready to savor the difference of homemade meals replacing the usual prepared foods in your daily lineup?
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd's Pie in a cast iron dish.
Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turn leftovers into a savory delight with Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie. This clever homemade solution transforms ordinary remnants into a cozy, flavorful dinner. Say goodbye to uninspired meals and hello to a homemade Shepherd’s Pie that’s both comforting and a smart way to avoid the usual pre-packaged options. Let this dish be your go-to for reducing waste and savoring the joy of homemade meals.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Roast Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

A stack of chicken and pineapple on a vertical skewer on a cutting board.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your dinner routine with Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Forget the lackluster pre-marinated options; this homemade dish brings the bold flavors of Al Pastor to your table. It’s a simple, smoky sensation that kicks store-bought chicken to the curb, making room for real, homemade goodness. Ready to savor the difference and make a delicious change by replacing the usual prepared foods with this flavorful homemade option?
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

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

Tired of ordinary frozen pizza? Ham & Asparagus Pizza is a game-changer. This homemade masterpiece is a flavor-packed alternative, making those cardboard-like store-bought pizzas a distant memory. Step into the world of fresh, simple ingredients with a pizza that truly satisfies. Make the switch to homemade meals and discover the joy of replacing the usual prepared foods with something that excites you.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

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