Who Needs a Chef? 19 Gourmet Meals You Can Make at Home

Wanted to impress your friends or family with a fancy homemade meal? Well, now you can with our collection of 19 gourmet dishes designed for home cooks like you. No need to be a culinary expert – we’ve got easy-to-follow recipes that’ll have you cooking like a pro in no time. So why wait? Dive into the world of gourmet cooking right in your own kitchen!

A bowl of Southern ham salad and croissants on a wooden table.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A plate of chicken thighs.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside – these air fryer chicken thighs are coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze for irresistible flavor. Quick and easy to make, they’re a perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Pickled Yellow Beans

Pickled yellow beans in a jar on a wooden table.
Pickled Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a tangy twist to your side dishes with these pickled yellow beans, offering a burst of flavor and crunch in every bite. Perfect for snacking, salads, or as a zesty accompaniment to your favorite main courses.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Yellow Beans

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transport your taste buds to the shores of the Mediterranean with this flavorful cod dish, featuring flaky fish infused with aromatic herbs, tangy lemon, and briny olives. Light yet satisfying, it’s a delicious option for seafood lovers craving a taste of the coast.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Beef Bourguignon

Beef bourguignon in a white bowl with thyme.
Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge in the classic French dish of tender beef simmered in a rich red wine sauce, infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Served over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery noodles, it’s a luxurious and comforting meal fit for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm up with a bowl of this classic Italian soup, brimming with tender pasta, hearty beans, and savory vegetables in a flavorful tomato broth. Satisfying and comforting, it’s a wholesome option for chilly evenings or lazy weekends at home.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Experience the flavors of Cuba in this unique casserole featuring layers of ham, roast pork, cheese, and pickles. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Smoked Cauliflower

Smoked cauliflower in a skillet on a wooden table.
Smoked Cauliflower. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Up your veggie game with this savory dish, smoked to perfection for a rich, smoky flavor. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone craving a hearty main course or flavorful side dish.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simplify dinner with this easy-to-make sheet pan chicken dish, infused with zesty lemon and fragrant rosemary. Perfectly roasted to juicy perfection, it’s a flavorful and hassle-free option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform leftover turkey into a comforting meal with tender pieces smothered in a creamy sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying and fuss-free dinner option, perfect for those craving classic comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Southern Ham Salad

A bowl of Southern ham salad and croissants on a wooden table.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a taste of the South with this refreshing salad featuring savory ham, crisp veggies, and a tangy dressing. Ideal for a light lunch or dinner, offering a satisfying mix of flavors and textures in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fire up the smoker for these juicy chicken legs, smoked to perfection and glazed with a sweet and spicy red pepper sauce. Finger-licking good and packed with flavor, they’re a crowd-pleasing option for backyard barbecues or casual gatherings with friends.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Dutch oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with these tender and flavorful carnitas, slow-cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven. Whether served in tacos, burritos, or bowls, they’re a versatile and delicious option for a crowd-pleasing dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops on a baby blue serving dish.
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let your slow cooker do the work with these tender Swiss pork chops, simmered in a flavorful sauce until melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Effortless and delicious, they’re a convenient option for busy days when you want a hearty and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this vibrant salad featuring tender orzo pasta, succulent shrimp, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Light yet satisfying, it’s a refreshing option for summer picnics or weekday lunches.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Shake up pizza night with this gourmet twist featuring savory ham, crisp asparagus, and gooey melted cheese atop a golden crust. Bursting with flavor and freshness, it’s a deliciously satisfying option for homemade pizza enthusiasts.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Two bowls of soup on the counter.
Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrade your soup game with this smoky tomato soup, enriched with creamy mascarpone cheese for a luxurious finish. Perfect for cozy nights in, it’s a comforting and flavorful option that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Soup with Mascarpone

Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Seafood Stuffed Salmon on a circular white plate.
Seafood Stuffed Salmon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress your guests with this elegant seafood dish featuring succulent salmon fillets stuffed with a flavorful mixture of shrimp, crab, and herbs. Baked to perfection, it’s a show-stopping centerpiece for special occasions or intimate dinners at home.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dive into comfort with these giant stuffed shells filled to the brim with creamy ricotta cheese and smothered in marinara sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, they’re a hearty and indulgent dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Two bowls of Turkey Pot Pie Soup with crackers and spoons.
Turkey Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cozy up with a bowl of this comforting soup, filled with tender pieces of turkey, hearty vegetables, and a creamy broth. A twist on the classic pot pie, it’s a deliciously satisfying option for chilly evenings or lazy Sundays spent indoors.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie Soup

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