15+ Fun Recipes to Try with Family and Friends

Cooking can be a delightful way to spend your time, especially when you try new and fun recipes. Whether you’re looking for simple dishes to make during a quiet weekend or playful meals to enjoy with family and friends, there’s something enjoyable for everyone. Cooking doesn’t have to be a chore; instead, it can become a creative outlet that sparks joy and satisfaction.

Exploring different recipes can also boost your culinary skills while providing a chance to try flavors you may not have considered before. Be ready to experiment and have fun in the kitchen as you whip up dishes that excite your taste buds and bring smiles to the table.

1) Filipino Chicken Adobo

Filipino Chicken Adobo is a delicious dish that’s easy to make. It combines savory, salty, and tangy flavors that come from soy sauce and vinegar. You will love how simple it is to prepare.

To start, you’ll need chicken pieces, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. This dish is usually cooked until the chicken is tender and packed with flavor. Serve it over warm rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup rice wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
• 8 pieces of chicken (legs or thighs)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a pot, add the marinated chicken with bay leaves.
4. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes on medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
5. Serve hot over rice. Enjoy!

2) Personal Pizzas

Personal pizzas are a fun and tasty way to enjoy pizza just the way you like it. You can customize each one with your favorite toppings. This makes them perfect for kids and adults alike.

To start, you will need dough that is soft and chewy. You can buy premade dough or make your own.

For toppings, use classic ingredients like cheese and pepperoni, or get creative with veggies and even fruits. You can be as simple or adventurous as you like!

Ingredients

• Pizza dough
• Tomato sauce
• Shredded cheese
• Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, vegetables, etc.)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough into small circles.
3. Spread a layer of tomato sauce on each dough circle.
4. Add shredded cheese and your favorite toppings.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Enjoy!

3) Classic Roast Chicken

A classic roast chicken is perfect for any occasion. It’s simple, flavorful, and makes your kitchen smell amazing. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

For a juicy roast, start with a whole chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Roast it in the oven until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

To make it even better, consider adding vegetables like carrots and potatoes to the roasting pan. They soak up the chicken juices and taste wonderful.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs or 1.8-2.3 kg)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary)
• 4 carrots, chopped
• 4 potatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
3. Rub the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan with carrots and potatoes.
5. Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

4) Pizza Pockets in a Waffle Maker

Making pizza pockets in a waffle maker is both fun and easy. You can use simple ingredients and create a delicious snack in no time.

Start by preparing your dough. You can use biscuit dough, which works great. Simply flatten it out and fill it with your favorite pizza toppings.

Add some sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni for a classic flavor. Then, put the filled dough in the waffle maker. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade pizza pockets hot and fresh!

Ingredients

• Biscuit dough
• Pizza sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni slices

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the waffle maker to 375°F (190°C).
2. Flatten biscuit dough and add pizza sauce, cheese, and pepperoni.
3. Fold the dough and place it in the waffle maker.
4. Cook for 5 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove and enjoy!

5) Kid-friendly Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a fun and easy meal for kids. You can fill them with cheese, chicken, or veggies based on what your kids like. They are quick to prepare and perfect for lunch or dinner.

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C). Take a tortilla and add cheese and any other fillings you want. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

These are great to serve with salsa, avocado, or sour cream for dipping. Encourage your kids to help make their own quesadillas. It’s a fun way to get them involved in cooking!

Ingredients:

• Flour or corn tortillas
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• Optional: cooked chicken, beans, veggies

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat (350°F or 175°C).
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet.
3. Add cheese and other fillings on one half.
4. Fold the tortilla and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Serve warm with dips.

6) 10-Minute Stir-fry

A 10-minute stir-fry is a quick and tasty way to prepare dinner. You can use whatever vegetables and protein you have on hand. It’s a flexible recipe, making it perfect for busy nights.

Start by heating oil in a pan over medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). Next, add your choice of sliced meat or tofu. Cook for a few minutes until browned.

Then, toss in your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas work well. Stir everything for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp. Season with soy sauce or your favorite stir-fry sauce.

Pair this dish with rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious and quick dinner!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 chicken breast, sliced (or tofu)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• Soy sauce to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
2. Add sliced chicken or tofu and cook until browned.
3. Add bell pepper and broccoli; stir for 5 minutes.
4. Season with soy sauce.
5. Serve with rice or noodles.

7) Hearty Sandwiches

Hearty sandwiches are perfect for a filling meal. You can pack them with meats, cheeses, and fresh veggies. They are quick and easy to make on busy days.

Try a classic grilled cheese made with gooey cheese and crispy bread. If you’re feeling adventurous, make a Philly cheesesteak loaded with beef, peppers, and onions.

For a vegetarian option, fill a sandwich with roasted veggies and hummus. Another tasty idea is a BBQ pulled pork sandwich, which is full of flavor and very satisfying.

These sandwiches can be served with a side of chips or a salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creations!

Ingredients

• Bread (your choice)
• Cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
• Deli meats (like ham or turkey)
• Fresh veggies (lettuce, tomatoes, etc.)
• Spreads (mustard, mayo, or hummus)

Cooking Instructions

1. Choose your bread and spread.
2. Layer meats and cheeses on the bread.
3. Add veggies as desired.
4. Grill or toast the sandwich if preferred.
5. Cut and serve with sides.

8) Giant Nutella Cookie Pizza

Making a Giant Nutella Cookie Pizza is fun and delicious. This dessert is perfect for sharing with friends and family. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare.

Start by mixing together Nutella and cookie dough. Once you have a soft dough, spread it out on a baking sheet to form a large pizza shape. The warm cookie becomes a great base for toppings.

After baking, slather more Nutella on top and add your favorite toppings. Chocolate chips, sprinkles, or nuts work well. It’s a treat everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Nutella
• 1 ½ cups flour
• 1 egg
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Chocolate chips or other toppings

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the egg and Nutella.
3. Gradually add flour and baking powder.
4. Spread the dough onto a baking sheet in a pizza shape.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
6. Once cooled, add more Nutella and your favorite toppings.

9) S’mores Cake Jars

S’mores Cake Jars are a fun twist on the classic campfire treat. These cute desserts are easy to make and perfect for parties or family gatherings.

Start with a buttery graham cracker crust. Layer it with rich chocolate cake and fluffy marshmallow topping. Toast the marshmallows for that perfect golden look.

To enjoy, simply dig in with a spoon. These jars are portable and make for a fun snack anytime.

Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup marshmallow fluff
• 1/4 cup mini marshmallows

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of jars.
3. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions.
4. Pour the batter over the crust in jars.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
6. Top with marshmallow fluff and mini marshmallows.
7. Toast the mini marshmallows with a kitchen torch or under a broiler.

10) Pumpkin Pinata Smash Cake

The Pumpkin Piñata Smash Cake is a fun and festive dessert for any occasion. It looks like a pumpkin but has a delightful surprise inside. When you cut it open, candy spills out!

Start by making two bundt cakes to form the pumpkin shape. You can use a box mix or your favorite recipe.

Once the cakes are baked and cooled, stack them together. Fill the center with your choice of candy—like chocolate or gummy treats.

Top it off with an ice cream cone to create a pumpkin stem. You can decorate it with orange icing to make it look perfect for Halloween or fall celebrations.

Ingredients

• 2 bundt cake mixes (or your preferred recipe)
• Candy (chocolate, gummies, etc.)
• Orange icing
• 1 ice cream cone

Cooking Instructions

1. Bake two bundt cakes according to the package or recipe instructions.
2. Allow cakes to cool completely.
3. Stack the cakes and hollow out the center.
4. Fill the hollow part with candy.
5. Place the top cake on and cover with orange icing.
6. Add the ice cream cone for the stem.

11) Breakfast Burrito Bowls

Breakfast burrito bowls are a tasty way to start your day. They are easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. You can mix in proteins, veggies, and sauces for a flavorful meal.

You might use scrambled eggs, taco-seasoned potatoes, or crispy bacon. Feel free to add black beans or avocado for extra nutrition. A creamy sauce can enhance the flavor and make it even better.

These bowls can be prepared in about 25 minutes. Plus, they are perfect for meal prep. You can make a few at once and enjoy them all week long.

Ingredients

• Scrambled eggs
• Taco-seasoned potatoes
• Bacon or sausage
• Black beans
• Avocado
• Cheese (optional)
• Salsa or creamy sauce

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the taco-seasoned potatoes in a skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C) until crispy.
2. In another pan, scramble the eggs until fully cooked.
3. Prepare bacon or sausage in a separate skillet.
4. Assemble the bowl by combining your ingredients.
5. Top with avocado and sauce. Enjoy!

12) Customizable Tacos

Customizable tacos are a fun way to enjoy dinner. You can create them with your favorite ingredients, making each taco unique. Start with soft or crunchy shells for a tasty base.

Choose proteins like seasoned beef, grilled chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option. Next, add toppings such as lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Don’t forget extras like guacamole or sour cream!

You can also include different veggies, like peppers or onions, to add flavor and crunch. The best part? You can set up a taco bar and let everyone build their own tacos.

Ingredients

• Taco shells (soft or crunchy)
• Protein (beef, chicken, or beans)
• Toppings (lettuce, cheese, salsa)
• Extras (guacamole, sour cream, veggies)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the protein until fully done.
2. Prepare your taco shells.
3. Set out all toppings and extras.
4. Assemble tacos as desired.
5. Enjoy your tasty creations!

13) Grilled Cheese with a Twist

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food. You can easily add a fun twist to make them even more delicious. Consider using different cheeses or adding special ingredients.

One idea is to mix shredded cheddar cheese with sour cream and onion. Spread it between slices of your favorite bread for extra flavor. You can also try adding fresh basil and tomato for a fresh taste.

If you’re feeling adventurous, make a grilled cheese pizza by adding pizza sauce and pepperoni. Another option is spinach-artichoke grilled cheese, which blends creamy artichoke and cheese.

These twists will surely impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• Sliced bread
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Onion
• Fresh basil
• Tomato
• Pizza sauce
• Pepperoni
• Spinach
• Artichoke

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat a skillet to medium heat (about 350°F or 180°C).
2. Prepare your fillings in a bowl.
3. Spread the mixture on one slice of bread.
4. Top with another slice and cook until golden brown.
5. Flip and repeat until cheese is melted.

14) Sweet and Spicy Meatballs

Sweet and spicy meatballs are a great addition to any meal or party. They are easy to make and packed with flavor. You can whip them up using just a few ingredients.

For a simple version, try using frozen meatballs mixed with brown sugar, buffalo sauce, and butter. This combination is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

You can also make them from scratch with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices. A two-ingredient sauce can add a unique kick.

These meatballs are versatile and can be served as appetizers or with rice for a main dish.

Ingredients

• Frozen meatballs
• Brown sugar
• Buffalo sauce
• Butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, buffalo sauce, and butter.
3. Mix in the frozen meatballs until well-coated.
4. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

15) Ham and Egg Breakfast Pizza

Ham and egg breakfast pizza is a tasty and fun way to start your day. It’s easy to make and perfect for the whole family. You can use a store-bought pizza crust for a quick option.

This recipe combines delicious ham, eggs, and your favorite cheese. The warm, melted cheese on top is always a crowd-pleaser. You can even add veggies if you like!

Ingredients

• 1 pizza crust (refrigerated or homemade)
• 1 cup diced ham
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust on a baking sheet.
3. Spread a thin layer of sauce if desired.
4. Sprinkle the diced ham evenly over the crust.
5. Crack the eggs on top of the ham.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Add the shredded cheese over everything.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the eggs are cooked and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
10. Enjoy!