Mastering the Classics: 18 Essential Recipes Every Home Cook Should Know
When it comes to cooking, there are some dishes that never go out of style. These timeless classics have been pleasing palates for generations and continue to be a staple in many kitchens around the world. From hearty beef stews to creamy pasta dishes, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 essential classic recipes that every home cook should master.
From comforting favorites like Beef Bourguignon and Chicken à la King, to elegant desserts like Tiramisu and Crème Brûlée, these iconic dishes are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, mastering these classic recipes will give you the confidence to tackle any meal.
Beef Bourguignon
A classic French dish that’s hearty and flavorful, Beef Bourguignon is a rich beef stew cooked with vegetables, mushrooms, and red wine.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or short ribs, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return beef to the pot; bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Chicken à la King
Classic Chicken à la King Recipe
This rich and creamy chicken dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over onion mixture; cook for 1 minute. Gradually stir in heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coq au Vin
Coq au Vin is a timeless French dish that combines the tender flavors of chicken, mushrooms, and red wine. This recipe yields a rich, satisfying meal perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Heat butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken, then set aside.
3. Add onion and mushrooms; cook until softened (5 minutes). Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
4. Pour in wine, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread and your choice of sides (e.g., boiled potatoes, sautéed spinach).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic Beef Wellington
A timeless French-inspired dish, Beef Wellington is a show-stopper that’s sure to impress. This recipe yields a tender beef filet wrapped in puff pastry and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef filet mignon
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 puff pastry, thawed (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef filet with flour, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mushroom duxelles evenly over the beef filet.
4. Place the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and roll out to a large rectangle.
5. Place the beef filet in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Brush the edges of the pastry with water and fold the pastry over the beef, pressing gently to seal.
7. Place Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian dish that combines succulent shrimp with garlic, butter, and parsley, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp to the pan, in a single layer if possible. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove from heat, stir in parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
French Onion Soup
A classic French dish that’s both flavorful and comforting, French Onion Soup is a staple of fine dining and casual gatherings alike. This recipe yields a rich, caramelized onion broth served with toasted bread and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, cubed
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add salt, wine (if using), and beef broth to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted bread and sprinkle Gruyère cheese.
6. Place bowls under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Eggs Benedict
A classic breakfast dish that combines poached eggs, toasted English muffins, and ham in a rich Hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs, poached
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 4 slices of Canadian bacon or ham
– 1 cup of Hollandaise sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the English muffins and top each with a slice of Canadian bacon.
2. Poach the eggs by cracking them into simmering water, then cook for 3-4 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
3. To assemble the dish, place a toasted English muffin half on a plate, top with a slice of Canadian bacon, a poached egg, and spoon some Hollandaise sauce over the egg.
4. Repeat the layers one more time to finish the dish.
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup lemon juice
– 1 egg yolk
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a double boiler and whisk until smooth. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Parmesan
A crowd-pleasing Italian-American favorite, Chicken Parmesan is a simple and satisfying dish that combines crispy breaded chicken breasts with melted mozzarella cheese and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the chicken by seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
4. Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the chicken is cooking, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat.
7. Assemble the dish by placing each chicken breast on a plate and topping with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lasagna Bolognese
Classic Lasagna Bolognese Recipe
This iconic Italian dish is a staple of comfort food, featuring layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients:
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 16 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 egg, beaten
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. To assemble lasagna, spread a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
8. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
9. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
10. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
11. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Beef Stroganoff
A classic Russian dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, Beef Stroganoff is a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 cup cooked egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes; remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add beef back into skillet; stir to combine with sauce.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over beef mixture; stir to coat.
8. Serve hot over cooked egg noodles and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clam Chowder
Get ready to warm up with this classic clam chowder recipe, inspired by the flavors of New England. This creamy and savory dish is perfect for a chilly day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, flour, and thyme; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Pie
A traditional favorite, this apple pie recipe combines tender apples with a flaky crust and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until coarse crumbs form.
4. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
5. Divide dough in half and roll out each portion to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
6. In a separate bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
7. Place one rolled-out pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture.
8. Roll out remaining dough to fit top of pie. Crimp edges to seal.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Caesar Salad
Classic Caesar Salad Recipe
A timeless favorite, this Caesar salad recipe is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a rich and tangy dressing that’s sure to become your new go-to.
Ingredients:
• 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing (see below)
• 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing.
2. Toss until the lettuce is evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Sprinkle the croutons and Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss again to combine.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Homemade Caesar Dressing (optional):
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
Combine the ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Ratatouille
A classic Provençal dish from France, Ratatouille is a hearty vegetable stew that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields a flavorful and aromatic medley of eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 3 large garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. Cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Margherita Pizza
This iconic Italian pizza is a staple of Neapolitan cuisine, featuring the perfect balance of creamy mozzarella, sweet tomato sauce, and fresh basil. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
– 2 cups (475ml) San Marzano tomato sauce
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6mm).
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tiramisu
Tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert, is a rich and creamy treat that combines the flavors of coffee, chocolate, and mascarpone cheese. This simple recipe yields a deliciously smooth and decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 8 oz whipped cream
– 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong coffee and let it cool.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a large bowl, combine mascarpone cheese and whipped cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a serving dish. Top with half the mascarpone mixture, then sprinkle with cocoa powder and sugar.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of mascarpone on top.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving. Garnish with chopped chocolate or shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Carbonara Pasta
A classic Italian dish that’s quick and easy to make, carbonara pasta is a rich and creamy treat that combines eggs, bacon or pancetta, and Parmesan cheese with spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon or pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon or pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the bowl in small increments and continue to toss until the spaghetti is well coated and creamy.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon or pancetta.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creme Brûlée
Rich, creamy custard base topped with a caramelized sugar crust – what’s not to love about crème brûlée? This classic French dessert is surprisingly easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120 g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
9. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each ramekin.
10. Caramelize sugar by using a kitchen torch or placing under broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Summary
Mastering classic recipes is a must for every home cook. From French-inspired dishes like Beef Bourguignon and Coq au Vin, to Italian favorites like Lasagna Bolognese and Margherita Pizza, these timeless recipes will elevate your cooking skills. This collection of 18 essential recipes includes comfort foods like Chicken Parmesan and Shrimp Scampi, as well as elegant desserts like Tiramisu and Creme Brûlée. With these tried-and-true formulas, you’ll be able to impress family and friends with your culinary prowess.
