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33 Recipes To Help You Cook Outside Of Your Comfort Zone

Challenge yourself in the kitchen to cook something different and new to you. Having these easy to replicate recipes in your tool belt should take away all your trepidation over trying to cook something you might be less familiar with. Whether it be the ingredients, or the techniques. And you will impress your friends and family with these awesome and tasty dishes. So, whether you’re craving something smoky off the grill, a cozy bowl of stew, or a fresh, vibrant salad, this collection has a little bit of everything. Each dish brings bold ingredients and simple techniques together for satisfying results.

From quick weeknight meals to dishes perfect for entertaining, these recipes are designed to fit any occasion. Try a rich Guinness beef stew for a comforting dinner, whip up a batch of smoky birria nachos for a gathering, or go for something light like a Thai halibut curry. There’s something for every craving.

So, what are you in the mood for? Scroll through, find a dish that speaks to you, and get cooking!

Ginger Scallion Shrimp

Ginger Scallion Shrimp. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Quick and flavorful, this dish features tender shrimp coated in a fragrant ginger and scallion sauce. Perfect over rice or noodles for a light yet satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Scallion Shrimp

Thai Mushroom Wraps

Thai Mushroom Wraps. Photo credit: Life Currents.

A vegetarian take on Thai street food, these wraps are filled with sautéed mushrooms, shallots, and fresh herbs, then seasoned with soy sauce, lime, and ginger for bold, zesty flavor.
Get the Recipe: Thai Mushroom Wraps

Creamy Mushroom Pork Tenderloin Medallions

Creamy Mushroom Pork Tenderloin Medallions. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Juicy pork medallions seared and smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Serve over mashed potatoes or pasta for an easy yet elegant dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Pork Tenderloin Medallions

Smoked Birria Tamales

Smoked Birria Tamales. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

These tamales wrap tender, slow-cooked birria in soft masa with a smoky twist. A flavorful, make-ahead dish great for special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Birria Tamales

Air Fryer Ratatouille Gnocchi

Air Fryer Ratatouille Gnocchi . Photo credit: Life Currents.

Air-fried gnocchi with roasted vegetables in a flavorful, tomato-based sauce. A quick, veggie-packed meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ratatouille Gnocchi

Birria Nachos

Birria Nachos. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Crispy tortilla chips loaded with juicy, slow-cooked birria, melted cheese, and fresh toppings. A crowd-pleaser for game days or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Birria Nachos

Broiled Hanger Steak Tacos with Chimichurri

Broiled Hanger Steak Tacos with Chimichurri. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Juicy hanger steak quickly broiled for tender, flavorful tacos, topped with fresh chimichurri for a zesty kick. A simple, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Broiled Hanger Steak Tacos with Chimichurri

Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe

Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

A fragrant rice dish with fresh basil, tomatoes, and bold Thai-inspired flavors. A quick, colorful side or a light meal on its own.
Get the Recipe: Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe

Traeger Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Traeger Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Slow-smoked, caramelized pork belly bites coated in a sticky glaze. Smoky, tender, and packed with barbecue flavor.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Guinness Beef Stew Recipe

Guinness Beef Stew Recipe. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

A hearty stew with tender beef, vegetables, and rich Guinness Stout for deep, comforting flavor. Great for a cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Guinness Beef Stew Recipe

Beer Braised 48 Hour Sous Vide Short Ribs

Beer Braised 48 Hour Sous Vide Short Ribs. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Slow-cooked sous vide for two days, these short ribs come out melt-in-your-mouth tender with deep, beefy flavor.
Get the Recipe: Beer Braised 48 Hour Sous Vide Short Ribs

Blackstone Smashed Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Blackstone Smashed Chicken Parmesan Sandwich. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Crispy, golden chicken topped with marinara and melted cheese, all packed into a sandwich. A handheld favorite with classic Italian flavors.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Smashed Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Smoked Caprese Salad

Smoked Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A smoky twist on the classic tomato, mozzarella, and basil salad. The gentle smokiness enhances every bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Caprese Salad

Linguine with Clam Sauce

Linguine with Clam Sauce. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A simple yet elegant pasta tossed in a garlicky white wine clam sauce. A light but flavorful seafood dish.
Get the Recipe: Linguine with Clam Sauce

Albacore Poke Tower

Albacore Poke Tower. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A layered dish of sushi rice, marinated albacore, and fresh toppings. Visually stunning and packed with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Get the Recipe: Albacore Poke Tower

Osso Buco

Osso Buco. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

A rich Italian classic with slow-braised beef in a velvety sauce. Tender, flavorful, and perfect for a special meal.
Get the Recipe: Osso Buco

Brined Smoked and Fried Chicken

Brined Smoked and Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Juicy chicken infused with smoky flavor and finished with a crispy, golden crust. A flavorful take on classic fried chicken.
Get the Recipe: Brined Smoked and Fried Chicken

Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin

Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

This foolproof sous vide method guarantees tender, juicy pork every time. A simple technique with restaurant-quality results.
Get the Recipe: Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin

Grilled Ground Pork Burgers with Hatch Chiles

Grilled Ground Pork Burgers with Hatch Chiles. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Juicy pork burgers seasoned with Hatch chiles for a smoky, slightly spicy twist. A flavorful alternative to classic beef burgers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ground Pork Burgers with Hatch Chiles

Skillet Pierogi Casserole

Skillet Pierogi Casserole. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A one-pan dish with cheesy potato pierogi, smoky kielbasa, and a creamy cheddar sauce. Hearty, comforting, and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Pierogi Casserole

Grilled Scallops with Parmesan and Lemon

Grilled Scallops with Parmesan and Lemon. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Perfectly grilled scallops finished with a bright Parmesan-lemon topping. A simple yet impressive seafood dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Scallops with Parmesan and Lemon

Lemony Mustard Chickpea Salad

Lemony Mustard Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Stetted.

A fresh, zesty salad with chickpeas, crisp veggies, and a tangy lemon-mustard dressing. Quick, easy, and perfect for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Lemony Mustard Chickpea Salad

Grilled Bison Burger

Grilled Bison Burger. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A smoky, juicy bison burger topped with Colby Jack cheese. A delicious alternative to beef with bold flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bison Burger

Spicy Sous Vide Halibut Cheeks

Spicy Sous Vide Halibut Cheeks. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Tender halibut cheeks infused with a spicy marinade, then cooked sous vide for perfect texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Sous Vide Halibut Cheeks

Pineapple-Basil Chicken Skewers

Pineapple-Basil Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Stetted.

Grilled chicken skewers with a tropical pineapple and basil glaze. A great dish for cookouts and gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple-Basil Chicken Skewers

Thai Halibut Curry

Thai Halibut Curry. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A creamy coconut-based curry with tender halibut, fragrant Thai spices, and fresh herbs. A comforting, flavor-packed meal.
Get the Recipe: Thai Halibut Curry

Traeger Chicken Vermicelli Bowls

Traeger Chicken Vermicelli Bowls. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Smoky grilled chicken served over vermicelli noodles with crisp veggies and a savory dressing. A fresh and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Chicken Vermicelli Bowls

Chinese Five Spice Chicken: Family Favorite Recipe

Chinese Five Spice Chicken: Family Favorite Recipe. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Chicken thighs coated in a warm, fragrant five-spice blend and roasted until crispy. A simple, flavorful dish.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Five Spice Chicken: Family Favorite Recipe

Spicy Pork Shotgun Shells

Spicy Pork Shotgun Shells. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Pasta shells stuffed with spicy pork, wrapped in bacon, and smoked to perfection. A smoky, savory appetizer with a kick.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Pork Shotgun Shells

Grilled Greek Meatball Bowls

Grilled Greek Meatball Bowls. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Juicy, spiced meatballs served over rice and vegetables, topped with creamy tzatziki. A flavorful, well-balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Meatball Bowls

Shrimp Scampi Pizza

Shrimp Scampi Pizza. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Buttery shrimp and melty cheese on a crisp pizza crust. A gourmet twist that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza

Pistachio Crusted Lingcod

Pistachio Crusted Lingcod. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Delicate lingcod fillets coated in a crunchy pistachio crust. A nutty, savory take on seafood.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Crusted Lingcod

Cantonese Ground beef And Eggs (Under 30 Minutes)

Cantonese Ground beef And Eggs (Under 30 Minutes). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

A simple yet flavorful stir-fry of ground beef and eggs, ready in under 30 minutes. A comforting dish with classic Cantonese flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cantonese Ground beef And Eggs (Under 30 Minutes)