19 Scratch Made Dishes So You Can Toss The Junk

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19 Scratch Made Dishes So You Can Toss The Junk

Ever feel like you’re stuck in a rut with your meals? Here’s a fresh idea: 17 homemade dishes that are all about simple, wholesome ingredients. No more processed stuff, just real food that’s packed with flavor. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to eat better without spending hours in the kitchen. So, let’s get back to basics and enjoy eating again – it’s all about good ingredients, simple cooking, and great taste.

Steak & Potato Soup in a black bowl.
Steak & Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

There’s something about homemade Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy that just feels right. Making it from scratch means you control the flavors and the quality. The chicken comes out juicy and tender, and the gravy? It’s rich and full of flavor, nothing like the store-bought kind.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Au Gratin Potato Stacks are a total crowd-pleaser and making them from scratch is surprisingly simple. Layering them with cheese and spices, then baking until crispy, elevates this dish to a new level. It’s a fantastic way to ditch those frozen potato sides. Plus, nothing beats the aroma of homemade au gratin potatoes in the oven.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The Mediterranean Chicken Bake is one of those dishes that’s both healthy and flavorful, especially when made from scratch. You get the freshness of the Mediterranean with every bite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, but feels special enough for guests. Say goodbye to those bland, pre-made chicken dishes.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup

A closeup of a bowl of Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup.
Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

On a chilly day, nothing beats a bowl of homemade Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup. Making it from scratch means you get all the natural flavors and nutrients without any additives. The combination of cauliflower and sweet potato creates a creamy, comforting soup. It’s a delicious way to ditch the canned soups.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever tried making Old Fashioned Ham Salad at home? It’s surprisingly easy and tastes so much better than store-bought. Perfect for sandwiches or as a side, this homemade salad brings a nostalgic taste without any of the junk. It’s a simple, satisfying way to enjoy a classic.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs in a bowl.
Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs are a game-changer, especially when you make them from scratch. They’re healthier, less greasy, and packed with flavor. Serve them as appetizers or part of a main dish – they’re versatile and delicious. Once you try these, those frozen meatballs just won’t cut it anymore.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Making Mexican Street Corn Salad from scratch is a total win for any barbecue or casual meal. It’s fresh, zesty, and bursting with flavor – something you can’t get from a pre-made salad. The vibrant colors and fresh taste make it a perfect side dish. Trust me, you’ll forget about those store-bought salads in no time.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Two Chicken Gnocchi Soup copycat soup recipes on a table.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

There’s something comforting about homemade Chicken Gnocchi Soup, especially on a cool evening. Making it from scratch lets you enjoy the creamy, hearty flavors without any artificial additives. It’s a family favorite that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Ditch the canned soup; this homemade version is a hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Turkey & Apple Panini

Turkey & Apple Panini stacked on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Panini. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Have you ever made a Turkey & Apple Panini from scratch? It’s a delightful mix of sweet and savory and so easy to whip up. Perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner, it’s a satisfying meal that’ll make you forget about fast food. Homemade paninis like this just taste better.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash on a platter with gravy.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Paprikash is a classic dish that’s even more delicious when made from scratch. The homemade paprika sauce adds a depth of flavor you just can’t get from a jar. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for spice lovers. Once you go homemade with this dish, there’s no turning back.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Seafood Chowder

Seafood chowder with a sprig of dill, a delicious stew recipe.
Seafood Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Homemade Seafood Chowder is a luxury you can actually make at home. It’s a creamy, savory experience with a variety of seafood – something you just can’t replicate with canned chowder. Great for special occasions or just a weekend treat. This scratch-made chowder will spoil you for anything else.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Chowder

Steak & Potato Soup

Steak & Potato Soup in a black bowl.
Steak & Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Steak & Potato Soup made from scratch is hearty and satisfying. It’s the perfect comfort food for meat and potato lovers. The flavors are rich and robust, something you won’t find in a packet. Homemade soup like this is a sure way to warm up and ditch the processed versions.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Tinga is all about the smoky, spicy sauce, and making it from scratch is surprisingly easy. It’s versatile, flavorful, and perfect for a homemade Mexican night. Use it in tacos, burritos, or just by itself. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to pre-made sauces.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Mediterranean Cod

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

Mediterranean Cod is a simple, light, and flavorful dish, especially when made from scratch. The fresh, clean flavors are a testament to homemade cooking. It’s a quick and nutritious meal that beats any frozen fish dish. Scratch-made Mediterranean Cod is a testament to simple, fresh ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Turtle Brownies

A piece of Turtle Brownie with ice cream on a plate.
Turtle Brownies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Homemade Turtle Brownies are a sweet treat for those who love to bake from scratch. Combining chocolate, caramel, and nuts, they’re a decadent dessert. These brownies are rich, gooey, and far superior to any boxed mix. Once you go homemade with these, you’ll never look back.
Get the Recipe: Turtle Brownies

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Fried Rice is a classic, and it’s even better when made from scratch. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and make a quick, tasty meal. No additives, just fresh ingredients and flavors. Ditch the takeout; this homemade version is so much better.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash in two white bowls.
Authentic Hungarian Goulash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking to impress with a hearty meal, try making Authentic Hungarian Goulash from scratch. It’s a satisfying dish with robust flavors that you just can’t find in a packet. Cooking it slowly allows all the spices to mingle perfectly. This homemade goulash will make you forget about those instant versions.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Hungarian Goulash

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