Cooking doesn't need to be intimidating or feel like you’re auditioning for a cooking competition. With a little help from some of the world's most iconic chefs (and one legendary internet personality), you can whip up dishes that are simple yet impressive. These recipes don’t require years of experience or any Michelin stars, just a bit of enthusiasm, and maybe an apron.

Below is a collection of easy, approachable recipes crafted by culinary legends, complete with links so you can get cooking right away.

1. Uncle Roger’s Egg Fried Rice

No one has made fried rice as iconic as Uncle Roger, the internet-famous persona of comedian Nigel Ng. His version of egg fried rice is straightforward, loaded with flavor, and comes with a delightful mix of humor. You’re not just making a meal; you’re creating something Uncle Roger would (hopefully) approve of.

Why It’s a Great Choice

It’s fast, uses pantry basics, and is endlessly customizable. Whether you have tofu, shrimp, veggies, or just eggs lying around, you can whip this up after a busy day without much effort.

Pro Tip: The secret is in the rice. Always use day-old rice for that perfect, non-clumpy texture. Fresh rice is too moist and risks turning your fried rice into mush.

2. Ina Garten’s Roasted Vegetables

Ina Garten is famous for her cozy, approachable recipes, and her roasted vegetables are the epitome of simplicity and flavor. By selecting fresh produce like sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini, and roasting them to golden perfection, you’ll elevate the humble veggie into something irresistible.

Why It’s a Great Choice

You don’t need fancy kitchen skills to chop veggies, drizzle oil, and sprinkle salt and pepper. The oven takes care of the rest, caramelizing the edges and intensifying the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Pro Tip: Spread the vegetables out so they roast evenly. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming, and no one likes soggy veggies.

3. Nigella Lawson’s Lemon Linguine

Nigella Lawson breathes life into simple pasta with her elegant lemon linguine. The recipe requires just linguine, lemons, cream, and Parmesan cheese, making it a go-to for anyone searching for a quick yet indulgent dinner.

Why It’s a Great Choice

It’s light but creamy, tangy but rich. This dish has a perfect balance of flavors and can be ready in about 15 minutes. After a long day, this is exactly the kind of meal that feels extravagant but takes minimal effort.

Pro Tip: Use fresh lemons and grate the zest finely for maximum flavor. Fresh ingredients make all the difference.

4. Gordon Ramsay’s Shakshuka

While Gordon Ramsay is known for his intense persona, his shakshuka recipe is surprisingly approachable. This simple dish features poached eggs simmered in a vibrant tomato and bell pepper sauce, spiced with paprika and cumin.

Why It’s a Great Choice

One pan. That’s all you need. It’s beginner-friendly, flavorful, and a great way to clean out your fridge by tossing in any leftover vegetables. Serve it with crusty bread, and you’ve got a complete meal.

Pro Tip: Watch your eggs carefully to avoid overcooking. You want soft, runny yolks to mix into the sauce.

5. Rachael Ray’s 30-Minute Chili

Rachael Ray has mastered the art of no-fuss cooking, and her 30-minute chili is proof that quick meals don’t have to skimp on flavor. This one-pot wonder combines ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices to deliver comfort food at its best.

Why It’s a Great Choice

Minimal prep, hearty results. This is a dish you can customize endlessly, based on what you like or what you have on hand.

Pro Tip: Top it off with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced avocado to level up your chili and add some creamy contrast to the bold, spicy flavors.

6. Yotam Ottolenghi’s Baked Feta with Cherry Tomatoes

Yotam Ottolenghi’s baked feta with cherry tomatoes is almost laughably easy but tastes like something you’d find at a high-end Mediterranean bistro. With just feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and fresh herbs, this dish earns a spot on your table any day of the week.

Why It’s a Great Choice

It couldn’t be simpler. It’s a dish you can prep in five minutes, then toss in the oven while you relax. Serve it with bread or crackers for scooping, and it doubles as an appetizer or light meal.

Pro Tip: Toss in a handful of sliced olives or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add depth and heat.

7. Jacques Pépin’s French Omelette

Jacques Pépin is a legend, and his French omelette recipe proves that the simplest dishes can be the most refined. This creamy, custardy omelette is soft and mildly flavored, made with just eggs, butter, and a pinch of salt.

Why It’s a Great Choice

It’s all about the technique. This dish allows beginner cooks to focus on mastering the basics while still feeling like they’ve created a masterpiece.

Pro Tip: Use a nonstick pan and low heat to achieve the perfect texture without burning. The gentler, the better.

8. Mary Berry’s Victoria Sponge Cake

Mary Berry’s Victoria sponge cake is a classic, British dessert that even first-time bakers can pull off with ease. The light, airy cake is layered with jam and cream for an understated yet delicious result.

Why It’s a Great Choice

This recipe teaches you the building blocks of baking while still being straightforward. If you can measure flour and crack an egg, you’re well on your way to baking success.

Pro Tip: Weigh all your ingredients for consistency. Mary Berry is adamant about precision, and she’s Mary Berry for a reason.

9. Wolfgang Puck’s Thin Crust Pizza

If pizza night feels too routine, bring a bit of Wolfgang Puck to your kitchen. His thin-crust pizza recipe is simple, allowing you to play with toppings while perfecting crispy, golden crusts.

Why It’s a Great Choice

Homemade pizza is endlessly fun. Kids can join in and customize their own toppings, or you can have some grown-up fun with creative combos like figs and prosciutto.

Pro Tip: Preheat your oven properly and, if you have one, use a pizza stone for that irresistible crispy texture.