15+ Recipes from Scratch to Delight Your Taste Buds

Cooking from scratch offers a unique way to enjoy flavorful and wholesome meals. By making recipes from scratch, you can control ingredients and create dishes that suit your taste and dietary needs. This guide will explore various approaches to simple, delicious dishes that you can easily prepare at home.

When you focus on recipes from scratch, you open up a world of creative possibilities in your kitchen. You’ll discover new flavors and techniques while enjoying the satisfaction of making meals by hand. Embrace the joy of cooking and bring your family together around the table with dishes made from love and fresh ingredients.

1) Buttermilk Pancakes

Making buttermilk pancakes from scratch is fun and easy. In just about 15 minutes, you can have a stack of fluffy pancakes ready to enjoy. These pancakes are perfect for breakfast or a special weekend treat.

For your ingredients, you will need:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk the egg, then add buttermilk and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
5. Pour ¼ cup batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden. Enjoy!

2) Classic French Toast

Classic French toast is a simple and delicious breakfast. You can make it using just a few ingredients you likely have at home. It’s perfect for a cozy morning.

Start with thick slices of bread. You’ll need eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. These combine to create a tasty batter.

To cook, heat up a skillet over medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C). Dip each slice of bread into the mixture, coating both sides. Then, place them in the skillet until they turn golden brown.

Serve with syrup, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra flavor!

Ingredients

• 4 slices of thick bread
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
3. Dip each slice of bread in the mixture, coating both sides.
4. Melt butter in the skillet, then add the bread slices.
5. Cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

3) Homemade Pizza Dough

Making homemade pizza dough is both fun and easy. You only need a few ingredients to create a delicious base for your favorite toppings.

Start with all-purpose flour, yeast, water, olive oil, salt, and sugar. Mix them together, and you’ll have a simple and tasty dough.

Once mixed, knead the dough briefly until it’s smooth. Let it rest for about 30 minutes. This helps the dough become soft and easy to roll out.

You can now shape it into a pizza crust. Bake it in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 12–15 minutes. Enjoy your pizza!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix until combined.
3. Knead for a few minutes until smooth.
4. Let rise for 30 minutes.
5. Shape into a pizza crust and bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12–15 minutes.

4) Rustic Sourdough Bread

Making rustic sourdough bread at home is a rewarding experience. It has a nice crust and a soft, chewy inside. You can enjoy it fresh with butter or use it for your favorite sandwiches.

To start, gather your ingredients. You will need a ripe sourdough starter, water, instant yeast, and salt.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (227g) ripe sourdough starter
• 1 ½ cups (340g) lukewarm water
• 1 to 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 ½ teaspoons (15g) table salt
• Additional flour for dusting

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter with water.
2. Add the yeast and salt, stirring until combined.
3. Gradually add flour until a dough forms.
4. Let the dough rise for several hours until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a floured surface.
6. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until golden brown.

5) Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is a comforting dish you can make from scratch. It combines tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all wrapped in a flaky pie crust. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken or turkey.

To start, you’ll want to gather your ingredients. Make sure to use fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and celery for the best flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup finely diced carrot
• 1/2 cup finely diced celery
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken or turkey
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until tender.
4. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking until smooth.
6. Add cooked chicken and peas. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Pour filling into a pie crust. Cover with another crust, seal edges, and cut slits.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

6) Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy macaroni and cheese is a comforting dish that you can make from scratch. It’s cheesy, rich, and easy to enjoy at any meal.

Start by cooking your pasta until it’s al dente. Drain it and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

In a saucepan, melt butter, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Then mix in your favorite cheeses until melted and smooth.

Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is covered. You can bake it for a crusty top if you like or serve it right away for a creamy texture.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheese (like cheddar)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in flour until smooth.
4. Slowly add milk while stirring to thicken.
5. Mix in cheese until melted.
6. Combine cheese sauce with pasta.
7. Serve warm or bake at 350°F (175°C) for a crusty top.

7) Garlic Roasted Chicken

Garlic roasted chicken is a simple yet delicious dish you can make from scratch. The combination of garlic and herbs creates a flavorful meal that your whole family will enjoy.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). You can use a whole chicken or just pieces, depending on your preference.

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Rub crushed garlic all over the chicken for added flavor.

Place the chicken in a roasting pan and let it bake until it reaches a golden brown color and the juices run clear. This usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours for a whole chicken.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Rub minced garlic and olive oil on the chicken.
4. Place in a roasting pan.
5. Roast for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until cooked through.

8) Hearty Beef Stew

Hearty beef stew is a warming meal perfect for chilly days. You can make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. The tender chunks of beef pair well with vegetables, creating a filling dish.

For flavors, you can add herbs like thyme and bay leaves. A rich broth makes the stew comforting and delicious. Don’t forget to serve it with crusty bread!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (approximately 900 g) beef stew meat
• 5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium onions, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 cups (720 ml) beef broth
• 2 Tbsp oil
• 2 Tbsp flour
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp thyme

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Brown the beef on all sides.
3. Add onions and cook until soft.
4. Stir in flour, salt, and pepper.
5. Add beef broth, potatoes, carrots, and herbs.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
7. Simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours (about 130-150°C).

9) Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that’s simple and delicious. You can make it quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. It features spaghetti, pancetta or bacon, cheese, and eggs.

To start, cook your spaghetti in a pot of boiling salted water. While the pasta cooks, fry pancetta until crispy in a skillet.

Once the pasta is ready, reserve some water. Then, drain the spaghetti and mix it with the pancetta.

Combine the hot pasta with beaten eggs and cheese. The heat will create a creamy sauce.

Enjoy your Spaghetti Carbonara with extra cheese on top if you like!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 4 ounces pancetta or bacon
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, cook pancetta or bacon until crispy.
3. Beat eggs in a bowl and mix in grated cheese.
4. Reserve some pasta water, then drain spaghetti.
5. Combine hot spaghetti with pancetta and egg mixture.
6. Add reserved water if needed for creaminess.
7. Serve with extra cheese if desired.

10) Savory Quiche Lorraine

Quiche Lorraine is a classic French dish that you can make from scratch. It’s rich and delicious, featuring a flaky crust filled with creamy custard, bacon, and cheese. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.

To start, make or buy a pie crust. Then, cook some bacon until it’s crispy.

Combine eggs, milk, cream, and cheese in a bowl. Stir in the cooked bacon.

Pour this mixture into the pie crust and bake in the oven until it’s set. This usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Let it cool a bit before slicing and serving.

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust
• 6 slices of bacon
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon until crispy and chop it.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cheese and bacon to the mixture.
5. Place the pie crust in a pie dish.
6. Pour the egg mixture into the crust.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.
8. Let cool before slicing and serving.

11) Fresh Basil Pesto

Fresh basil pesto is a delicious and easy sauce you can make from scratch. It’s great with pasta, sandwiches, or even as a dip.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.

To make the pesto, first, toast the pine nuts in a pan until golden. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes on medium heat.

Next, combine the basil, garlic, and toasted pine nuts in a food processor. Add olive oil slowly while the processor runs.

Finally, mix in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice until smooth.

Enjoy your homemade pesto on pasta or spread it on bread!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 3 cloves garlic
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• ½ cup olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Toast the pine nuts in a pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes.
2. In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, and toasted pine nuts.
3. Slowly add olive oil while blending until smooth.
4. Mix in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning if needed.

12) Vegetable Lasagna

Vegetable lasagna is a delicious and healthy meal you can make from scratch. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Start by gathering your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach work well. Layer them with ricotta and mozzarella cheeses for a creamy texture.

You can also add a simple homemade tomato sauce to enhance the flavors.

Baking the lasagna at 375°F (190°C) will bring everything together. It takes about 30-40 minutes to cook. Let it cool for a bit before serving. Enjoy your warm, vegetable-packed dish!

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 cups spinach
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a baking dish, spread some marinara sauce.
4. Layer noodles, vegetables, ricotta, and mozzarella.
5. Repeat layers and top with sauce and cheese.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes.
7. Let cool before slicing and serving.

13) Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon Pound Cake is a delightful treat that’s soft and moist. The bright lemon flavor makes it perfect for any occasion. You’ll love the sweet, tangy glaze drizzled on top.

Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need basic pantry items, plus fresh lemons for that zesty taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well.
4. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl.
5. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture alternately with the milk.
6. Stir in the lemon zest, juice, and vanilla.
7. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Allow it to cool before serving. Enjoy your homemade Lemon Pound Cake!

14) Blueberry Muffins

Blueberry muffins are a tasty treat that everyone loves. They are easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack. You can enjoy them warm, fresh from the oven.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, vegetable oil, egg, and, of course, blueberries. Fresh or frozen berries work great.

Now, let’s get baking!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup blueberries

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine oil, egg, and milk.
4. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients.
5. Gently add blueberries.
6. Spoon the batter into muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

15) Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Making apple cinnamon oatmeal from scratch is a warm and delicious way to start your day. You’ll love the combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon as they blend together.

To get started, gather your ingredients. Fresh apples add a nice texture, while oats provide heartiness. It’s simple and quick to prepare on the stovetop.

You can adjust the sweetness by adding brown sugar or maple syrup. Enjoy it plain or top it with nuts for some crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup old fashioned oats
• 2 cups water
• 1 apple, diced
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
• Optional: nuts for topping

Cooking Instructions

1. Bring the water to a boil in a pot.
2. Add oats and diced apple.
3. Stir in cinnamon and sweetener.
4. Cook for about 5 minutes on medium heat.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!