When it comes to cooking, there’s nothing quite like a tried-and-true classic recipe. These dishes have stood the test of time for a reason – they’re comforting, delicious, and often evoke memories of home and family gatherings. From rich beef stews to creamy pasta bakes, these 18 timeless classics are must-knows for any home cook looking to master the art of cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes will provide a solid foundation for your culinary skills.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of classic cooking and highlight some of the most iconic dishes that every home cook should know how to make. From French-inspired elegance to comforting American classics, we’ll take you on a journey through the best of the best when it comes to timeless recipes.
Beef Bourguignon
A classic French stew that’s both hearty and flavorful, Beef Bourguignon is a perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 thyme sprig
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme sprig. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cover.
6. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Chicken Cordon Bleu
This classic French dish combines chicken breast, ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced ham
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 cups grated Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter each chicken breast.
3. Place a slice of ham on top of the butter, followed by a sprinkle of Swiss cheese.
4. Roll each breast tightly and secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Place the rolled chicken breasts seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle heavy cream over the chicken, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coq au Vin
Coq au Vin Recipe
A classic French dish that combines chicken, mushrooms, onions, and red wine, Coq au Vin is a hearty meal perfect for special occasions or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Côtes du Rhône)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the chicken in butter over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add more butter if needed, then sauté the onions and mushrooms until softened, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, tomato paste, and red wine to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, add chicken broth, and cover. Simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with thyme sprigs and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Eggs Benedict
A classic breakfast dish that’s both elegant and delicious, Eggs Benedict consists of poached eggs on toasted English muffins topped with ham or Canadian bacon, spinach, and hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 teaspoons white vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 4 slices of ham or Canadian bacon
– Fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the water for poaching eggs.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter and whisk in cream, mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Toast English muffins.
4. Poach eggs (about 5 minutes).
5. Assemble by placing ham or Canadian bacon on toasted muffin, topping with poached egg, and spooning hollandaise sauce over the top.
6. Garnish with spinach leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
French Onion Soup
A classic French soup that’s both simple and satisfying, this recipe combines caramelized onions with rich beef broth and topped with melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. If using wine, add it to the saucepan and cook until reduced by half.
3. Add broth, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slice and grated cheese.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A simple yet satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
• 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
• 1-2 slices of cheese (such as cheddar, American, or mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Place one or two slices of cheese on top of the bread.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Homemade Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this classic homemade macaroni and cheese recipe. A creamy, cheesy sauce coats al dente pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lasagna Bolognese
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this beloved lasagna recipe, featuring a hearty meat ragù and layers of tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of red wine
– 2 cups of beef broth
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 250g lasagna sheets
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the lasagna sheets according to package instructions.
3. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Add red wine and beef broth; simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
7. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat sauce on the bottom layer, followed by cooked pasta, then repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of meat sauce.
8. Top with egg wash and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
New York Cheesecake
Classic New York Cheesecake Recipe
A timeless favorite, this classic cheesecake recipe yields a rich and creamy dessert with a velvety smooth texture and a golden brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar; stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add vanilla extract and granulated sugar; beat until well combined.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely in pan before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Osso Buco
Osso Buco, a classic Italian dish, is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. This recipe yields tender veal shanks smothered in a rich tomato-based sauce, flavored with aromatic vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season veal shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown veal shanks, then set aside.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add wine, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return veal shanks to pot, cover with lid, and transfer to oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until veal is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Pasta Carbonara
This beloved pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, with a rich and creamy sauce made from eggs, parmesan cheese, and guanciale (Italian bacon). With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this mouthwatering carbonara at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 oz guanciale or pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 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 guanciale over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss with the egg mixture until well coated.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the bowl in small increments to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Stir in the cooked guanciale and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ratatouille
Savor the flavors of Provence with this classic French vegetable stew, perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, diced
– 2 large zucchinis, diced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups tomatoes (canned or fresh), crushed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, eggplant, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding
Classic British Comfort Food: Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding
Roast beef and Yorkshire pudding are a match made in heaven, perfect for a hearty Sunday lunch or special occasion. This recipe combines the tenderloin of the roast beef with a light and airy Yorkshire pudding.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 kg beef tenderloin
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 150ml beef stock
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Season the roast beef with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Roast the beef in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per kg, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. While the beef is cooking, mix flour, eggs, and milk to make the Yorkshire pudding batter.
5. Place a 12-cup muffin tin in the oven and let it heat up for 2 minutes.
6. Remove the tin from the oven and pour the batter into each cup.
7. Return the tin to the oven and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the puddings are puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with garlic, lemon, and parsley for a flavorful and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to low, add lemon juice, white wine (if using), and parsley to the skillet. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet, toss to coat with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spaghetti and Meatballs
Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
This timeless Italian-American dish combines tender spaghetti with homemade meatballs and a rich tomato sauce. It’s an easy, satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into 12-15 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are baking, cook spaghetti in boiling water until al dente.
7. Heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
8. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
9. Combine cooked spaghetti and meatball sauce. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tiramisu
A classic Italian dessert made with ladyfingers soaked in coffee and liqueur, layered with whipped mascarpone cheese and cocoa powder.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the brewed coffee and cocoa powder. Stir until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish. Top with half the mascarpone mixture, then repeat the layers.
5. Dust the top with confectioners’ sugar.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Traditional Beef Wellington
A classic dish that exudes elegance and sophistication, Beef Wellington is a show-stopping main course for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) filet mignon
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the filet mignon with flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the filet on a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving a 1-inch border around the meat.
4. Spoon the mushroom duxelles over the filet, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Roll out the puff pastry to a large rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Place the filet in the center of the pastry, brushing the edges with the beaten egg.
7. Fold the pastry over the filet, pressing the edges to seal.
8. Brush the top of the Wellington with the remaining egg and place on a baking sheet.
9. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Nicoise Salad
This classic French-inspired salad is a flavorful and healthy combination of canned tuna, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup of Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Mastering classic recipes is a must for any home cook. In this article, we’ll explore 18 timeless dishes that every home cook should know how to make. From comforting favorites like Beef Bourguignon and Homemade Mac and Cheese to elegant desserts like Tiramisu and New York Cheesecake, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, this collection of classic recipes is the perfect place to start building your culinary skills.
