When it comes to kitchen hacks, there are some tricks that even the most experienced home cooks might not know. From methods to keep your herbs fresher for longer to shortcut techniques for perfect pie crusts, these tips and tricks can revolutionize the way you handle meal prep. They’re like little nuggets of wisdom you wish your mom had passed down but probably didn’t because they’re brand new discoveries. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone who just wants to make cooking less stressful, these 17 ideas are about making everyday meals easier and more efficient. Who knew that something as simple as a rubber band or an ice cube tray could save so much time?
Classic Shrimp Scampi
Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity of Classic Shrimp Scampi. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a light, garlicky sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. The flavors blend together seamlessly, creating a meal that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. It’s a great way to bring a touch of Italian cuisine to your dinner table. Your family and friends will be impressed by this restaurant-quality dish you can make at home.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Scampi
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Experience the comfort of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, a dish that transforms a classic into an easy-to-serve format. This casserole combines tender chicken, ham, and melty cheese in a creamy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich and fulfilling meal. It’s a great way to enjoy the taste of chicken cordon bleu without the fuss of individual servings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Greek Green Beans
Discover the Mediterranean charm of Greek Green Beans. This side dish brings a fresh twist to your usual vegetable options. The beans are cooked to perfection and enhanced with a blend of herbs and spices. It’s a healthy addition to any meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. This dish proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special when combined thoughtfully.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Indulge in the comfort of Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, flavorful gravy that’s sure to impress. The oven-baking method ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time. The creamy onion gravy adds a luxurious touch to the dish, making it feel like a special occasion meal. It’s a great option for those looking to level up their weeknight dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Enjoy a Southern classic reimagined with Shrimp and Grits Casserole. This dish takes the beloved combination of shrimp and grits and transforms it into a convenient casserole format. The creamy grits and plump shrimp create a perfect texture contrast. It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. This casserole is an excellent way to bring a taste of the South to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup
Warm up with a bowl of Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup. This hearty soup recreates the flavors of a beloved restaurant favorite. The creamy texture and rich potato flavor make it a comforting choice for any meal. It’s a great option for those chilly evenings when you need something to warm you from the inside out. This soup proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients can create the most heartwarming meals.
Get the Recipe: Copycat La Madeleine Country Potato Soup
Baked Spanish Rice
Add some flair to your dinner with Baked Spanish Rice. This dish brings the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine to your table with minimal effort. The rice is infused with spices and vegetables, creating a colorful and flavorful side dish. It’s a great way to add variety to your usual rice preparations. This baked version ensures perfectly cooked rice every time, making it a foolproof addition to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos
Bring the fast-food favorite home with Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. These tacos recreate the flavors of a popular menu item in your own kitchen. The combination of seasoned chicken and fresh toppings creates a balanced and fulfilling meal. It’s a great option for a quick dinner or casual get-together with friends. These tacos prove that homemade can be just as good as takeout.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos
Shrimp & Corn Chowder
Warm up with a bowl of Shrimp & Corn Chowder. This creamy soup combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of shrimp for a truly comforting meal. The chowder’s thick texture makes it filling enough to be a main course. It’s a great way to enjoy seafood in a new format. This chowder is sure to become a go-to recipe for those cooler evenings.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp & Corn Chowder
Greek Meatballs
Experience the flavors of Greece with Greek Meatballs. These meatballs are packed with herbs and spices that transport your palate to the Mediterranean. They’re versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or main course. The meatballs pair well with a variety of sides, making them a flexible option for any meal. This dish is a great way to introduce Greek flavors to your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatballs
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Enjoy a childhood favorite in a new form with Sloppy Joe Casserole. This dish takes all the flavors of a classic sloppy joe and turns them into a convenient casserole. The combination of meat, sauce, and typically a bread or pasta base creates a complete meal in one dish. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and easy. This casserole is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Authentic Hungarian Goulash
Transport yourself to Eastern Europe with Authentic Hungarian Goulash. This hearty stew is filled with tender meat and vegetables in a rich, paprika-spiced sauce. The long, slow cooking process ensures deep flavor development and incredibly tender meat. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for colder days. This goulash is a great way to experience traditional Hungarian cuisine at home.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash
Beef Bourguignon
Impress your guests with Beef Bourguignon, a classic French dish. This rich stew features tender beef cooked in red wine with vegetables and herbs. The long cooking process results in incredibly flavorful and tender meat. It’s a great option for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of elegance to your meal. This dish proves that sometimes the best meals are worth the wait.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Treat your family to Million Dollar Spaghetti, a dish that tastes as rich as it sounds. This pasta bake combines the flavors of spaghetti and lasagna in one convenient dish. The layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese create a comforting and fulfilling meal. It’s a great option for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for busy weeknights. This dish proves that sometimes combining two favorites can create something even better.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Vintage Chicken Divan
Revisit a classic with Vintage Chicken Divan. This retro dish combines tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a comforting and fulfilling meal. It’s a great way to get vegetables into a main dish that everyone will enjoy. This vintage recipe proves that some dishes truly stand the test of time.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan
