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Everyday Cooking

Everyday Cooking

These are the basics, the simple meals, the make ahead recipes. Everyday cooking for every one.

These are the recipes you sometimes forget even are available. Like, making homemade cleansers and beauty products. Or, convenience items like croutons or coffee creamer. While so easy to buy, they are also easy to make.

Also check out our "make ahead" section for recipe-saving ingredient substitutes.



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Enter a word or two in the box to find recipes within the everyday cooking section. You can search the title, ingredients, or entire recipe by selecting the appropriate option.

Recipes  /   everyday cooking
recipe for weight watchers diet cola chicken

Weight Watchers Diet Cola Chicken

Cutting down on sugar and fat doesn't mean you have to miss out on BBQ. Lean chicken is cooked in a smoky BBQ sauce making it perfect on buns, in tortillas, or on its...

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for homemade dishwasher detergent

Homemade Dishwasher Detergent

The cost of store-bought dishwasher detergents can really add up, especially if you need a large quantity to keep your dishes clean and sparkling.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for instant cappuccino mix

Instant Cappuccino Mix

Want a quick coffee fix without having to stand in line or making an entire pot of coffee? Keep this instant cappuccino mix on hand for a quick hot drink (or iced!)


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for sloppy joe freezer mix

Sloppy Joe Freezer Mix

What is easier than sloppy joes? Sloppy joes made ahead of time. Freeze the saucy ground beef mixture, and when ready to cook just heat, and eat.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for soda can chicken

Soda Can Chicken

A twist on the famous beer can chicken. In this version, a whole chicken, rubbed in spices, cooks right on top of a half-full soda can and comes out perfectly moist.

Method:   outdoor grill
Time:   2-5 hours

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recipe for bisquick glazed cinnamon rolls

Bisquick Glazed Cinnamon Rolls

If you like sweet biscuits, you'll love these Bisquick cinnamon rolls with a sweet, powdered sugar glaze.

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for homemade ricotta cheese

Homemade Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese is one of the easier cheeses to make from scratch. All it requires are 2 ingredients and a little patience.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for mascarpone substitute

Mascarpone Substitute

Italian mascarpone cheese adds a richness to desserts and savory dishes alike, but it's not always on hand or easy to find in a pinch. Good news - you can mix ricotta and cream...


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for bow-wow-wow dog treats

Bow-Wow-Wow Dog Treats

Your dog will love you (even more) when you make these tasty peanut butter cookies for him! Made with honey, peanut butter, flour, egg, oil, baking soda, and oats.

Method:   microwave, oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for secret ingredient chocolate fudge cake

Secret Ingredient Chocolate Fudge Cake

This version of cola cake is different because it uses brown sugar instead of white sugar in the cake which makes the cake a little more moist.

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for shepherd's cheddar pie

Shepherd's Cheddar Pie

It's amazing how quickly a shepherd's pie can come together with a few choice shortcuts.

Method:   oven, stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for cheese sausage balls

Cheese Sausage Balls

These scrumptious sausage bites could not be easier. Sausage, cheese, and baking mix all kneaded together and baked - perfect for dipping in all sorts of your favorite sauces as an...

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for make your own hummingbird nectar

Make Your Own Hummingbird Nectar

This hummingbird nectar is easy and inexpensive to make. You'll end up with a sweet, syrupy nectar that will attract these beautiful birds to your yard or garden.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for broccoli casserole

Broccoli Casserole

Classic family-style casserole. A can of mushroom soup cuts down on the ingredients and time involved so you can spend less time with the casserole and more time with the family...

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for 7-up lemon pound cake

7-Up Lemon Pound Cake

Made with lemon extract, butter, flour, sugar, eggs, 7-Up

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for jello play dough

Jello Play Dough

Looking for a rainy day craft project with the kids? Try making this homemade playdough made from flavored gelatin powder, flour, salt, cream of tartar, oil, and water.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for make your own baby powder

Make Your Own Baby Powder

Make your own gentle baby powder with ingredients you control instead of one loaded with harsh chemicals.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for microwave croutons

Microwave Croutons

Microwave croutons might just be the kitchen hack you've been waiting for. Your salads will thank you.

Method:   microwave
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for au jus (brown stock)

Au Jus (Brown Stock)

This rich brown stock can be used as a soup base, or in any recipe calling for beef broth or stock.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for homemade mouthwash

Homemade Mouthwash

Apple cider vinegar and water are all you need for this all-natural mouthwash. Takes a couple tries to get used to it, but it's very effective.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for gluten-free baking mix

Gluten-Free Baking Mix

This baking mix is perfect for people who are gluten-intolerant or have celiac disease (or who are just avoiding gluten).


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for sugar-free vanilla coffee creamer

Sugar-Free Vanilla Coffee Creamer

You can still make a sweet, creamy cup of Joe without the added sugar. This pre-mixed blend with a touch of vanilla is a great option to have on hand.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for coca-cola burgers

Coca-Cola Burgers

Cola and French dressing are used both in the burger patties and as a tangy spread on the grilled buns. The sweet and tangy flavor brings your burgers to a new level.

Method:   outdoor grill
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for slow cooker coca cola braised ham

Slow Cooker Coca Cola Braised Ham

Out-of-this-world ham with just the right touch of sweetness from slowly cooking in the coca cola sauce.

Method:   stovetop, crock pot
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for callus remover

Callus Remover

Save that spa money! A pumice stone and a simple solution of baking soda and sea salt are all you need for a naturally effective method of callous removal.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for homemade sour cream

Homemade Sour Cream

This recipe takes a couple of days to "sour" so it won't work for a sour cream emergency but it's a great way to make your own sour cream to have on hand (it will last 3...


Time:   over 5 hours


recipe for toaster oven or air fryer chunky croutons

Toaster Oven or Air Fryer Chunky Croutons

Why are you still out there buying croutons? Bread brushed with oil and dusted with smoked paprika bakes into crunchy, salad-improving croutons faster than you...

Method:   air fryer, roaster oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for diy wood floor cleaner

DIY Wood Floor Cleaner

Wood floors are a beautiful addition to any home, but they can be difficult to clean. This natural wood floor cleaner is perfect for keeping your floors clean and polished...


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for creamy potato soup mix

Creamy Potato Soup Mix

Made with seasoned salt, ground turmeric, instant mashed potato flakes, powdered milk, chicken bouillon granules, dried minced onion, dried parsley, white pepper, dried thyme


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for bisquick chocolate chip cookies

Bisquick Chocolate Chip Cookies

Made with semisweet chocolate chips, butter or margarine, brown sugar, egg, baking mix, nuts

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for cinnamon wassail

Cinnamon Wassail

You can't go wrong with hot apple cider on a cold night, but this mulled wassail made with whole cloves and cinnamon takes it to a new level.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for easy and quick homemade whipped cream

Easy And Quick Homemade Whipped Cream

Want sweetened whipped cream with an extra special touch? (hint: it's vanilla!) Try this recipe for a delicious dessert topping that can be made in minutes.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for concord grape jelly

Concord Grape Jelly

Made with concord grapes, water, sugar, pectin

Method:   stovetop
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for cheesy garlic croutons

Cheesy Garlic Croutons

These crisp croutons are perfect for topping a salad or bowl of soup. They are made by tossing French bread cubes with melted butter, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese before...

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for egg substitute

Egg Substitute

This make-ahead egg substitute is reduced calorie and protein packed. It even has a yellow eggy color from a little turmeric added to the mix.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for yogurt pancakes

Yogurt Pancakes

Adding yogurt to the batter is a brilliant way to get moist pancakes every time. Top them off with fresh, matching fruit and you're in fruity flapjack heaven.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for homemade hand lotion

Homemade Hand Lotion

This homemade hand lotion recipe is perfect for those with sensitive skin. The lotion is unscented, but you can add your favorite essential oil to give it a pleasant scent.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for mint ice cubes

Mint Ice Cubes

These minty ice cubes are perfect in iced tea or cocktails. They add a little color to the drink and release a light fresh mint flavor as they melt.


Time:   2-5 hours


recipe for homemade windshield-washer fluid

Homemade Windshield-Washer Fluid

Need to throw together a little wiper fluid in a pinch? Isopropyl alcohol and dish soap are all you need for a cheap, effective solution.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for car washing soap

Car Washing Soap

The best part about this soap is that it's gentle enough for even the most delicate paint job, but tough enough to handle the toughest grime. So go ahead and give it a try - your car...


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for pedialyte-type drink

Pedialyte-Type Drink

When little ones are under the weather, sometimes all they need is a little Pedialyte-type drink. This magic elixir can help them feel better in no time!


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for homemade confectioner's (powdered) sugar

Homemade Confectioner's (Powdered) Sugar

Need powdered sugar but don't have any? Make your own with just two ingredients.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for basic homemade croutons

Basic Homemade Croutons

This recipe is a win-win. Use up your day old bread; get a crunchy salad topping to boot. Bread and butter is all you need for these crispy broiled croutons.

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for beefy taco seasoning mix

Beefy Taco Seasoning Mix

This is a great substitute for the packaged taco seasoning you buy at the store. This version has extra "beefy" flavor. Use anytime you need a little Mexican flavor...


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for heloise's flavored coffee mixes

Heloise's Flavored Coffee Mixes

Looking for a fun and easy way to spice up your morning cup of joe? Try one of these flavored coffee mixes. You can mix and match the flavors to create your own custom...


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for slow cooker coca-cola barbecued chicken

Slow Cooker Coca-Cola Barbecued Chicken

This sweet and tangy cola sauced chicken can be slow cooked in a crock pot or oven-baked.

Method:   crock pot
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for red pepper jelly

Red Pepper Jelly

Made with red food coloring, liquid fruit pectin, red bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, white vinegar, sugar

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for homemade honey-peanut butter

Homemade Honey-Peanut Butter

Homemade peanut butter is so much better than store-bought varieties. Fresher taste, less unnecessary additives, and the bonus satisfaction of making something from...


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for dr. pepper texas chocolate cake

Dr. Pepper Texas Chocolate Cake

Made with baking soda, Dr. Pepper, chocolate chips, eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, shortening, butter

Method:   oven, stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for overnight strawberry preserves

Overnight Strawberry Preserves

Letting the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice flavors meld overnight not only improves the flavor but it makes the canning process less exhausting.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   over 5 hours


recipe for basic cooked jerusalem artichoke

Basic Cooked Jerusalem Artichoke

Also known as a sunchoke, this vegetable is a member of the sunflower family (and not related to the other kind of artichokes). It is nutty, sweet, and crunchy. They...

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for blender peanut butter

Blender Peanut Butter

Making your own peanut butter is so easy, so much tastier than store bought, and limitless in customization options.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for pepperoni

Pepperoni

Made with garlic powder, anise seeds, ground beef, salt, liquid smoke, black pepper, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, red pepper flakes

Method:   oven
Time:   over 5 hours


recipe for zesty slow cooker dr. pepper ribs

Zesty Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper Ribs

Wouldn't you like to be a pepper too? Ribs cooked low and slow in the crockpot with Dr. Pepper are the tenderest and tastiest you'll ever try.

Method:   crock pot
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for basic roux

Basic Roux

Roux is a key ingredient in many classic French dishes and sauces like etouffee and bechamel. Roux is simply equal parts flour and fat that are cooked together.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for jewelry cleaner

Jewelry Cleaner

Sometimes a good cleaning makes a ring or necklace feel like a whole new piece. Ammonia, water, and dish soap are all you need for a home remedy to restore the shine.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for chocolate mint coffee creamer

Chocolate Mint Coffee Creamer

A gourmet powdered coffee creamer like this mint chocolate blend is a brilliant thing to have on hand. Not only is it great for everyday use, but it's easy to bring on the...


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for for the birds scrap pie

For the Birds Scrap Pie

Use up some leftovers and feed the birds at the same time. The feed can be put in a feeder or sprinkled on the ground.

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours




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