17 Recipes You Can Count On Every Single Time

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Looking for recipes that deliver perfection every single time? This go-to collection of 17 tried-and-tested dishes promises consistent results without the guesswork. Whether you’re craving creamy penne alla vodka, savory beef and broccoli stir fry, or indulgent fudgy chocolate chip brownies, these foolproof recipes are here to make your kitchen adventures stress-free and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike, these dishes prove that tried and true can also mean utterly delicious. Roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking with confidence!

Penne Alla Vodka

This Penne Alla Vodka recipe is a creamy, tomato-based pasta dish that’s better than takeout! The vodka enhances the flavors, while the penne pasta ensures every bite is coated in the rich sauce. It’s quick, easy, and sure to be a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Chicken with Sherry Mushrooms Sauce

A close up of a plate of Chicken, Mushrooms, and Sauce on a white plate — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Chicken with Sherry Mushroom Sauce recipe features juicy chicken thighs and pancetta smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce. This dish is packed with flavor from onions, garlic, and herbs creating a dinner that everyone will love. Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Sherry Mushrooms Sauce

Weeknight Paella

A dish of yellow rice topped with sausage and shrimp — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Weeknight Paella recipe brings the flavors of Spain to your table with minimal effort. Shrimp and chorizo combine with rice and aromatic spices in one pot for a simple, satisfying, and flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Paella

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

a plate of beef and broccoli with a brown sauce — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry recipe features tender marinated steak strips and fresh broccoli, all coated in a savory stir-fry sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal, offering a delicious alternative to takeout. Enjoy this family-friendly dish that’s sure to be a hit!
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Fudgy Chocolate Chip Brownies

Three Chocolate Chip Brownies stacked on top of each other — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

These Fudgy Chocolate Chip Brownies are dense, gooey, and decadent. This recipe is foolproof and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Chocolate Chip Brownies

Red Velvet Bundt Cake

This Red Velvet Bundt Cake is a stunning and easy-to-make change from the traditional layer cake. The combination of cocoa powder and cream cheese icing makes this cake incredibly moist and flavorful. Perfect for any occasion, especially the holidays!
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Bundt Cake

Chicken Stroganoff

This Chicken Stroganoff recipe is a quick and easy comfort food classic that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Tender chicken is smothered in a rich sour cream sauce, perfect for a weeknight meal. Serve over noodles or rice for a satisfying family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stroganoff

Lemon Fish Piccata

This Lemon Fish Piccata recipe delivers a scrumptious and quick supper, ready in just 30 minutes! With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this Italian-American dish is perfect for a family-friendly weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Fish Piccata

Classic Chicken Parmesan

This classic Chicken Parmesan recipe features golden, crispy chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy Italian favorite that’s perfect for a family-friendly dinner or even a special holiday meal. Serve it with pasta or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken Parmesan

Steak Stir Fry

This Steak Stir Fry recipe is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender steak and crisp vegetables in a savory sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s even better than takeout!
Get the Recipe: Steak Stir Fry

One Pot Sausage and Rice

A delightful rice dish featuring sliced sausage, red and yellow bell peppers, chopped green onions, and tomatoes mixed into the rice. — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This One Pot Sausage and Rice recipe is a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights! It’s made with andouille sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and a blend of spices, all cooked together in one pot with rice and chicken stock. This recipe is easy to make and clean up, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Sausage and Rice

Braised Purple Cabbage

a close up image of braised cabbage scattered with crispy bacon. — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Braised Purple Cabbage recipe combines tender cabbage, sweet apple, and savory bacon in a flavorful braising liquid. It’s the perfect side dish for holidays or any meal! This recipe is also a one-pot recipe, making it easy to clean up afterwards.
Get the Recipe: Braised Purple Cabbage

Creamy Mustard Chicken

Mustard Chicken transforms a creamy chicken dish in a pan, with tender pieces of chicken breast smothered in a rich, herb-flecked mustard sauce. A silver spoon rests invitingly in the sauce, ready to serve. — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Ready in just 35 minutes, this Creamy Mustard Chicken recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. The flavorful dijon mustard sauce, made with white wine and creme fraiche, elevates simple chicken breasts to a gourmet level. Serve over pasta or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mustard Chicken

Homemade Yellow Cake

a slice of yellow cake with chocolate frosting — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This homemade yellow cake recipe is perfect for any occasion! It’s incredibly moist, tender, and fluffy, making it a crowd-pleaser for birthdays, parties, or even a simple after-school treat. With easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be baking up a delicious cake in no time.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Yellow Cake

Chicken With Black Bean Sauce

Craving Chinese takeout but short on time? This Chicken With Black Bean Sauce recipe is ready in just 20 minutes! Enjoy tender chicken and a flavorful black bean sauce made from scratch, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken With Black Bean Sauce

Tomato Pesto Soup

This Tomato Pesto Soup recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, perfect whether served warm or chilled. The addition of cheesy croutons elevates this simple soup, making it a comforting and flavorful meal that’s great for lunch or a light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Pesto Soup

Red Lentil Soup

Warm up with a bowl of this flavorful Red Lentil Soup! Made with simple ingredients like lentils, carrots, and celery, this soup is seasoned with cumin, lemon, and cilantro for a comforting and delicious meal. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup