If You Only Make 20 Recipes This Year, Make These

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There are good recipes, and then there are really good recipes—the kind you think about days later, the kind that earn you that rare, unsolicited “Wow, this is amazing” at the dinner table. This lineup is packed with exactly those kinds of dishes. We’re talking Crockpot Cajun Chicken that practically cooks itself, Simple Fresh Zucchini Pasta Sauce that’ll make you forget about jarred anything, and Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice that feels way fancier than it is. There’s Chocolate Cheesecake you’ll consider hiding in the back of the fridge (no judgment), Sausage and Potato Casserole that’s pure comfort on a plate, and Lemon Bread that might just ruin every store-bought version for you forever. And don’t even get us started on Cookie Butter Cups—they’re dangerously good. These are the recipes everybody needs to try at least once… though odds are, you’ll come back for seconds (and thirds).

Hamburger Recipe

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Hamburger shown on homemade bun with lettuce, cheddar, tomatoes and pickles.
Photo credit: Cooking Classy

Craving a classic American burger? This recipe provides foolproof methods for cooking juicy hamburgers, whether you prefer stovetop, grill, or oven. Get ready to customize your perfect burger with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Recipe

Simple Fresh Zucchini Pasta Sauce

fettuccine in a skillet with fresh zucchini pasta sauce
Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

This 30-minute zucchini pasta recipe is the perfect way to use up fresh garden zucchini this summer! The zucchini melts into a tasty butter sauce that is simply divine. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious vegetarian meal!
Get the Recipe: Simple Fresh Zucchini Pasta Sauce

Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice

Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Photo credit: Gimme Some Oven

This flavorful Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is a quick and easy meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The recipe features a delicious combination of ginger, lime, and sriracha, and it can be easily adapted with beef or chicken instead of pork. Top it off with peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor!
Get the Recipe: Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice

Crockpot Cajun Chicken

Crockpot Cajun Chicken over rice in a bowl, garnished with fresh herbs, ready to be enjoyed.
Photo credit: Chelsea’s Messy Apron

This Crockpot Cajun Chicken recipe is a flavor explosion! Tender chicken and veggies simmer in a rich, spiced broth, making for a comforting and healthy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Serve over rice for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Cajun Chicken

Kale Avocado Salad

Fresh kale avocado salad, garnished and ready to eat, featuring lush greens, creamy avocado slices, and added toppings.
Photo credit: Chelsea’s Messy Apron

This Kale Avocado Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors! Fresh kale is combined with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and crunchy sunflower seeds, all tossed in a vibrant avocado lemon dressing. It’s a healthy and satisfying salad that’s perfect as a side or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Kale Avocado Salad

Sausage and Potato Casserole

Sausage and potato casserole cooked in a baking dish with a wooden spoon.
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

This cheesy Sausage and Potatoes Casserole is the ultimate breakfast comfort food. It combines classic flavors in a simple casserole that’s perfect for holiday mornings or any weekend brunch. Enjoy this easy and satisfying dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Potato Casserole

Baked Chicken Tenders

hand holding a baked lemon chicken tender dipped in homemade ranch dip
Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

These baked chicken tenders are quick to make and full of flavor! A savory-sweet honey glaze and tasty ranch dipping sauce will make this recipe a family favorite. Serve as a main or appetizer!
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Tenders

The ultimate BEST EVER Cookie Butter Crunch Cups! Only 6 ingredients and 10 minutes prep! Read the rave reviews!! via chelseasmessyapron.com
Photo credit: Chelsea’s Messy Apron

These Cookie Butter Cups are a delightful no-bake dessert that requires only 6 ingredients! With a creamy cookie butter filling and a crisp chocolate shell, they’re easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Plus, the recipe includes tips to ensure your treats turn out perfectly every time!
Get the Recipe: Cookie Butter Cups

Lemon Bread

Overhead image of a slice of Lemon Bread on a plate
Photo credit: Chelsea’s Messy Apron

This Lemon Bread recipe is a must-try! It boasts a supremely moist texture, bright citrus flavor, and a delightful pound-cake-like density. Plus, it’s a Starbucks copycat, so you can enjoy your favorite treat at home.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bread

Shrimp Nachos

Overhead shot of Shrimp Nachos sitting in a black skillet next to a container of sour cream.
Photo credit: Grandbaby Cakes

Spice up your snack game with these Blackened Shrimp Nachos! Featuring spicy, cheesy, and crunchy flavors, these nachos are loaded with flavorful seafood, perfect for game day or a fun Cinco de Mayo appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Nachos

Chile Verde (Green Chili)

overhead view of a serving of Chile verde (green chili) in a white bowl with white rice, cilantro, and a fork.
Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

This Chile Verde recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make green chili stew with pork. Simmered with tomatillos, jalapeños, and poblano peppers, this spicy and tasty dish is perfect for a healthy and hearty meal. Top with cilantro, cotija cheese, and a lime wedge for the perfect finish.
Get the Recipe: Chile Verde (Green Chili)

Crockpot Chicken Quinoa Soup

A bowl of hearty crockpot chicken quinoa soup, with chicken, quinoa, vegetables, and herbs.
Photo credit: Chelsea’s Messy Apron

This Crockpot Chicken Quinoa Soup is a healthy and hearty meal, perfect for a cozy night in! Packed with protein from chicken and quinoa, plus plenty of vegetables and Italian herbs, this soup is both nutritious and delicious. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it simmer to perfection.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chicken Quinoa Soup

Tortellini Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes

Tortellini Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes
Photo credit: Gimme Some Oven

This Tortellini Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s packed with flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, toasted pine nuts, and arugula, and it can be made ahead of time. This pasta salad is also gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes

Chocolate Cheesecake

Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe Oreo Crust
Photo credit: Baking a Moment

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate fantasy with this creamy and rich chocolate cheesecake recipe! With a decadent filling and chocolate sandwich cookie crust, this dessert is sure to satisfy even the most intense cravings. Perfect for any occasion, from holidays to everyday indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cheesecake

Pistachio Cake

A three-layer cake with light frosting and a slice missing reveals a greenish interior. The cake is adorned with berries and small flowers on top and sides, set against a white background.
Photo credit: Sally’s Baking Recipes

Looking for a delicious and festive cake? This pistachio cake by Sally’s Baking Recipes is soft, fluffy, and bursting with real pistachio flavor. Paired with a silky cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for any spring celebration.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Cake

Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
Photo credit: Cooking Classy

These pork chops are pan-seared to perfection, then topped with a butter sauté of apples and onions. What really brings this dish together is the spiced apple cider pan sauce that will have you craving it all year long. A quick and easy meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight!
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

Lemon Cupcakes with Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting

lemon cupcakes with blackberry cream cheese frosting topped with blackberries on a white serving plate
Photo credit: Sally’s Baking Recipes

These lemon cupcakes are light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, perfect for spring or summer gatherings. The blackberry cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the lemon. You’ll love how easy they are to make!
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting

Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp Zoodles

close-up of grilled chili lime shrimp zoodles
Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

These Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp Zoodles are a quick and easy low-carb meal perfect for summer. Zucchini noodles are topped with flavorful grilled shrimp marinated in chili, lime, and honey for a light and refreshing dish. Ready in minutes, it’s a healthy and delicious way to enjoy seafood!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chili Lime Shrimp Zoodles

Creamy Yogurt Cucumber Salad Recipe

Creamy Yogurt Cucumber Salad Recipe | foodiecrush.com #tzatzikisauce #healthy #garlic
Photo credit: Foodie Crush

This creamy yogurt cucumber salad is the perfect light and refreshing dish for a hot summer day. Made with Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, lemon, and mint, it’s a healthy and flavorful side that comes together in minutes. Enjoy the crunchy cucumbers coated in a tangy and herbaceous dressing.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Yogurt Cucumber Salad Recipe

Tomato & Zucchini Frittata

tomato and zucchini frittata
Photo credit: Love and Lemons

Looking for a quick and healthy meal? This Tomato & Zucchini Frittata is packed with fresh flavors and is perfect for brunch or a light dinner. Plus, it’s gluten- and dairy-free, making it a great option for various dietary needs!
Get the Recipe: Tomato & Zucchini Frittata

About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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