Looking to elevate your cooking game? Look no further! Epicurious has got you covered with a collection of 20 mouth-watering and flavorful recipes that will take your meals to the next level. From classic comfort foods to international twists, these dishes are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Start your culinary journey with our Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry, packed with bold flavors and textures. Or, indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Whatever your taste buds crave, you’ll find it here – from hearty beef dishes like Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon to light and refreshing soups like Roasted Butternut Squash Soup.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these epicurious recipes are sure to inspire and delight. So go ahead, get cooking, and taste the difference that only comes from using the freshest ingredients and expert techniques.
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a warm meal. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and fish sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in Thai basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish, featuring a creamy garlic sauce, melted parmesan cheese, and al dente noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon
This rich and flavorful stew is a staple of French cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s night. With tender beef, mushrooms, and vegetables slow-cooked in red wine, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp tomato paste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Add red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add beef broth, tomato paste, carrots, celery, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
6. Return the browned beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cover and transfer to the oven. Cook at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, made by roasting butternut squash to bring out its natural sweetness. This recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. Scoop out roasted squash flesh and blend with onion, garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon
This refreshing summer recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and herbs with the tender texture of grilled salmon, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, and garlic.
3. Place salmon fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over the salmon during the last minute of cooking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Homemade Mushroom Risotto
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and creamy homemade mushroom risotto recipe, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g. cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
5. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding more.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and tangy balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. In a small saucepan, heat balsamic glaze over medium-low heat.
6. After the sprouts have roasted for 15 minutes, brush them with the warm balsamic glaze.
7. Return to oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until glazed and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup
This iconic soup is a staple of French cuisine, with its rich flavors and caramelized onions. With this recipe, you’ll create a warm and comforting bowl that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Preheat your broiler.
5. Ladle the soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with a toasted baguette slice and grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Recipe
Elevate your seafood game with this simple and flavorful pan-seared scallop recipe, featuring a bright and citrusy lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the scallops to the skillet, searing for 2-3 minutes per side or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Reduce heat to medium-low.
5. In the same skillet, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, stirring until melted and smooth.
7. Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon some of the lemon butter sauce over them. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chocolate Lava Cake with Raspberry Sauce
Rich, gooey chocolate cake filled with a velvety raspberry sauce is the perfect indulgence for any dessert lover. This recipe combines the best of both worlds in one impressive and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted chocolate, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; whisk until just combined.
5. Pour into 4 (6-ounce) ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool in ramekins for 1 minute, then invert onto plates.
8. Serve with warm raspberry sauce (simmer raspberries with 2 tablespoons sugar and 2 tablespoons water over low heat).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
A classic lamb dish elevated by a fragrant herb crust, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 rack of lamb (6-8 bones), Frenched
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the lamb rack on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the lamb.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes for a 1-pound rack of lamb.
Avocado and Shrimp Ceviche
This vibrant and flavorful ceviche combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, bright citrus flavors, and a hint of spice, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings or light lunches.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– Optional: tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the avocado.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve chilled, with tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (not including marinating time)
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
Transform sweet caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese into a harmonious union, perfectly balanced in this savory tart.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Spread caramelized onions leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Fold edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush pastry with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Spicy Miso Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Japanese miso soup with the comfort of a warm, spicy noodle bowl. A soft-boiled egg adds creaminess and texture to this satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 soft-boiled eggs, sliced
– Green onions and bean sprouts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, chicken broth, miso paste, gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
5. Assemble bowls by placing cooked noodles in the bottom, followed by the hot soup, sliced eggs, and garnishes (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes with the rich flavor of roasted garlic! This recipe combines tender Yukon gold potatoes with caramelized garlic for a decadent side dish that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender when pierced.
3. Meanwhile, toss garlic cloves with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and spread on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until caramelized and soft.
4. Remove potatoes from oven and mash with roasted garlic, milk, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the warmth of grilled peaches with the creaminess of burrata cheese, all on a bed of fresh greens. Perfect for a light and refreshing summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill peach slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
3. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, grilled peaches, and burrata cheese.
5. Sprinkle chopped fresh mint on top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked short ribs smothered in a velvety red wine sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add diced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve with red wine sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Fresh Strawberry Basil Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the brightness of basil, perfect for warm weather or as a unique dessert option. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this delightful treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries, sugar, and water until smooth.
2. Add the basil leaves and blend until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any seeds or pulp.
4. Stir in the lemon juice.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on the ice cream maker)
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and pesto with tender chicken breasts, creating a delicious and visually appealing dish.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sun-dried tomatoes and pesto.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the tomato-pesto mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Top each breast with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
7. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dark Chocolate Espresso Truffles
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and coffee craving at the same time. With a velvety dark chocolate coating and a boost of espresso, these truffles are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup instant espresso powder
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip heavy cream and butter until stiff peaks form.
2. Add confectioners’ sugar, espresso powder, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream mixture. Mix until combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Dip each truffle ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely.
6. Place coated truffles on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including chilling time)
Summary
Elevate your cooking game with these 20 mouthwatering recipes from Epicurious! From classic French Onion Soup to decadent Dark Chocolate Espresso Truffles, these gourmet dishes are sure to impress. Explore international flavors with Spicy Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry and Miso Ramen, or indulge in comforting classics like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta and Braised Short Ribs. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, there’s something for everyone in this collection of flavorful recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
