5 Easy Recipes Every Beginner Cook Should Master

Starting out in the kitchen can feel overwhelming, but mastering a few simple recipes will build your confidence and skills. Here are five easy dishes that every beginner cook should know how to make. These recipes are straightforward, require minimal ingredients, and many can be adapted for an air fryer.

Ingredients

• For Scrambled Eggs:
  • 2 large eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• For Air Fryer Chicken Breast:
  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, pepper, and your favorite seasoning
• For Pasta with Tomato Sauce:
  • 1 cup pasta (any kind)
  • 1 cup store-bought tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
• For Roasted Vegetables (air fryer optional):
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For Grilled Cheese Sandwich:
  • 2 slices of bread
  • 2 slices of cheese
  • Butter for spreading

Steps

1. Scrambled Eggs: Crack eggs into a bowl, add salt and pepper, and whisk. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat, pour in eggs, and stir gently until cooked through but still soft.
2. Air Fryer Chicken Breast: Rub chicken breast with olive oil and seasonings. Place in air fryer basket at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through.
3. Pasta with Tomato Sauce: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and return to pot. Stir in olive oil and tomato sauce, warming gently. Add salt if needed.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet or air fryer basket. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or air fry for 15 minutes, shaking basket halfway.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice butter side down in a heated pan, top with cheese and second slice butter side up. Cook until golden brown on both sides and cheese melts.

Tips or Variations

• Scrambled eggs can be customized with cheese, herbs, or diced vegetables for extra flavor.
• For chicken, try different seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs to change the flavor profile.
• Use fresh tomatoes and garlic to make your own pasta sauce if you want a homemade touch.
• Feel free to mix any vegetables you like when roasting—broccoli, cauliflower, or potatoes work well.
• Try adding tomato slices or cooked bacon to your grilled cheese for a tasty twist.
• Most of these recipes can be adjusted in cooking time depending on your appliance model; always check for doneness.