15+ Homemade Recipes for Delicious Meals and Treats

Homemade recipes let you create delicious meals in your own kitchen. Cooking at home not only saves money, but also lets you control the ingredients and flavors in each dish. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting out, making homemade recipes can be fun and fulfilling.

With countless options available, you can easily find recipes that suit your taste and dietary needs. You can experiment with different ingredients and techniques, making each meal unique. Embracing homemade cooking can lead to healthier eating habits and a deeper appreciation for the food you enjoy.

1) Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

Classic spaghetti and meatballs is a comforting dish that’s easy to make at home. The combination of flavorful meatballs and delicious spaghetti in rich marinara sauce makes for a satisfying meal.

Start by making your meatballs. Mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices. Then, form them into balls and brown in a pan.

Next, cook your spaghetti according to the package directions. While that’s happening, simmer your homemade marinara sauce until it’s thick and tasty. Finally, combine everything and serve hot.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
• 8 ounces (225 g) spaghetti
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs.
4. Brown the meatballs in a pan.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
6. Heat marinara sauce in a separate pot.
7. Combine spaghetti, meatballs, and sauce before serving.

2) Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Buffalo chicken lasagna is a spicy twist on traditional lasagna. It combines layers of lasagna noodles with creamy buffalo chicken filling, making it a perfect comfort food. The flavors are bold and satisfying.

To make this dish, you’ll need ingredients like cooked shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese. The creamy layers will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
• 3/4 cup buffalo sauce
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 8 ounces blue cheese crumbles
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cream cheese.
3. In another bowl, combine ricotta cheese, blue cheese, egg, and parsley.
4. Spread some chicken mixture on the bottom of a baking dish.
5. Layer lasagna noodles, then add the ricotta mixture.
6. Repeat layers, ending with sauce on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly. Enjoy!

3) Cheesy Zucchini Boats

Cheesy zucchini boats are a fun and easy dish you can make at home. They are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and are packed with flavor.

Start by cutting zucchinis in half lengthwise. Then, scoop out some of the inside to create a little boat. After that, fill them with a cheesy mixture.

You can use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or feta, mixed with other ingredients like herbs and spices. Finally, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until they are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Ingredients

• 2 zucchinis
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or your choice)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1/4 cup herbs (basil or parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half and scoop out the insides.
3. Mix cheese, tomatoes, and herbs in a bowl.
4. Fill the zucchini halves with the mixture.
5. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.

4) Homemade Brownies

Homemade brownies are a tasty treat that you can easily make. The rich chocolate flavor and fudgy texture will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious batch in no time.

You will need butter, sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, flour, and vanilla extract. These brownies are great for dessert or just a snack.

Ingredients

• ½ cup (115 g) butter
• 1 cup (200 g) white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup (40 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt the butter in a bowl.
3. Stir in the sugar, then add the eggs and vanilla.
4. Mix in the cocoa powder and flour until combined.
5. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Enjoy!

5) Instant Ramen Stir-fry

Instant ramen stir-fry is a quick and tasty meal you can whip up in no time. It combines the chewy texture of ramen noodles with fresh veggies and your choice of protein.

To start, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, but don’t add the seasoning yet. Once they are ready, drain and set aside.

In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Then, add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. Stir-fry until they’re tender.

Next, add the cooked ramen noodles and any protein you like, such as chicken, beef, or tofu. Mix everything well and add soy sauce for flavor.

Cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through. Enjoy your delicious and simple instant ramen stir-fry!

Ingredients

• 1 pack of instant ramen noodles
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 1 cup protein (chicken, beef, or tofu)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the instant ramen noodles according to package directions.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender.
4. Add cooked ramen and protein to the pan.
5. Stir in soy sauce and mix well.
6. Heat through and serve.

6) Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy and tasty dish. It combines ground meat with veggies, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This comforting meal is great for sharing with family or friends.

To make a classic Shepherd’s Pie, you can use ground beef or lamb. Cook the meat with onions, carrots, and peas for a delicious filling. Next, spread a layer of mashed potatoes on top and bake until golden brown.

This dish is filling and can be prepared ahead of time. Just reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a pan and cook onions until soft.
3. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
4. Stir in carrots and peas, then pour in beef broth.
5. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish.
7. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing them out.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Enjoy!

7) Homemade Cole Slaw

Homemade cole slaw is a fresh and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for barbecues or gatherings. It’s easy to make and tastes so much better than store-bought.

To start, you will need green cabbage and carrots. Shredding them yourself gives the best texture.

You’ll mix these veggies with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and salt. This dressing adds a nice tang to balance the sweetness.

For a little twist, you can add ingredients like green onions or even apples for extra flavor.

Enjoy this tasty cole slaw with your favorite meals.

Ingredients

• 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Shred the cabbage and carrots into a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots.
4. Toss everything together until well coated.
5. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

8) Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a classic dish that is perfect for picnics and gatherings. It is easy to make and full of flavor. The creamy dressing pairs well with the crunchy veggies.

To start, cook 3 cups of elbow macaroni in salted water until it’s al dente. Drain and cool the pasta in a large bowl.

Next, chop vegetables like celery, red onion, and bell pepper. Add these to the cooled macaroni.

For the dressing, mix 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this over the pasta mix and stir well.

Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors blend.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain.
2. Cool pasta and place in a large bowl.
3. Add chopped celery, red onion, and bell pepper.
4. Mix mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
5. Pour dressing over pasta and veggies; stir to combine.
6. Chill for at least one hour before serving.

9) Chicken Casserole

Chicken casserole is a comforting dish that’s easy to make. You can have it ready in no time with just a few ingredients. It’s great for dinner and perfect for leftovers.

Start by mixing cooked chicken with creamy soup. You can add sour cream or cottage cheese for a richer flavor. Top it off with cheese and crunchy crackers for a nice finish.

Bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden. This dish is sure to warm your heart and fill your stomach.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1 cup crushed crackers

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese and crushed crackers on top.
5. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly. Enjoy!

10) Veggie Omelette

A veggie omelette is a great way to enjoy a healthy breakfast. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and cheese. This dish is quick to make and full of flavor.

Start with fresh ingredients like onions, bell peppers, and spinach. You can also add mushrooms for extra taste. Whisk some eggs and season them with salt and pepper.

To cook, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and let them cook until the edges set. Add your veggies and cheese, then fold the omelette in half and serve hot.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 cup spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Whisk the eggs in a bowl with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 180°C).
3. Add the eggs to the skillet.
4. Cook until they start to set.
5. Add veggies and cheese.
6. Fold the omelette and cook a minute longer.
7. Serve immediately.

11) Homemade Pasta Sauce

Making your own pasta sauce is simple and rewarding. You can control the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until they are soft. This adds a great base flavor to your sauce.

Next, add crushed tomatoes and your favorite seasonings. Common choices include basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt.

Let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together beautifully.

Feel free to add in some cooked meat or vegetables for extra heartiness. Enjoy it with your favorite pasta!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and seasonings.
4. Allow the sauce to simmer for 20-30 minutes.
5. Mix in cooked meat or vegetables if desired. Enjoy!

12) Scrambled Eggs with Veggies

Scrambled eggs with veggies make a tasty and healthy meal. You can enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The best part is you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Start by whisking your eggs in a bowl. Adding a splash of milk can make them fluffier. Then, choose your favorite veggies like spinach, bell peppers, and onions.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C). Add a little oil or butter, then toss in the chopped veggies. Sauté until they soften before pouring in the eggs.

Stir gently until the eggs are cooked but still creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Ingredients

• 4 eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ cup diced veggies (spinach, bell peppers, onions)
• 1 tablespoon oil or butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Whisk eggs and milk together in a bowl.
2. Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add veggies and sauté until soft.
4. Pour eggs over veggies and stir gently.
5. Cook until eggs are set, then season and serve.

13) Rice and Beans Bowl

A rice and beans bowl is a simple and nutritious meal. It is perfect for anyone looking for a quick dinner. This dish combines fluffy rice with protein-rich beans.

You can customize it with various toppings. Try adding salsa, avocado, or fresh veggies. This way, you get a meal that is not only filling but also bursting with flavor.

It’s also budget-friendly and healthy. You can make it in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 can black beans (15 oz)
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 avocado
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Lime juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. While the rice cooks, heat the beans in a saucepan.
3. Once the rice is ready, combine it with the beans.
4. Top with salsa, avocado, and cilantro.
5. Drizzle with lime juice before serving. Enjoy!

14) Beef Stew

Beef stew is a warm and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. It’s made by cooking tender beef with vegetables in a flavorful broth. This recipe can be made in one pot, making clean-up easy.

Start with beef stew meat, cut into chunks. You also need carrots, potatoes, onions, and broth for the base. The spices add depth to the flavor.

To make your beef stew, first, brown the meat in a pot. Then, add the chopped vegetables and broth. Let everything simmer until the beef is tender.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium heat (350°F / 180°C).
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in the carrots and potatoes.
4. Pour in the beef broth and season with salt and pepper.
5. Let it simmer for about 2 hours until the beef is tender.

15) Chicken Wraps

Chicken wraps are a quick and delicious meal. You can make them using grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and your favorite sauce. They are perfect for lunch or dinner.

To start, you need a tortilla, chicken, lettuce, cheese, and dressings like ranch or buffalo sauce. You can customize them based on your taste.

Start by layering the ingredients on the tortilla. Fold it over and roll it up tightly. It takes just about 15 minutes to assemble a tasty wrap.

Ingredients

• Tortillas
• Grilled chicken
• Lettuce
• Shredded cheese
• Dressing of your choice

Cooking Instructions

1. Grill the chicken until it reaches 165°F/75°C.
2. Lay the tortilla flat and add lettuce.
3. Place slices of chicken on top.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese and drizzle dressing.
5. Fold in the sides and roll the tortilla up. Enjoy!