10 Best Beginner Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook is a comprehensive collection of 500 recipes that cater to those looking to explore Mediterranean cuisine. The recipes are designed with varying complexity, making it suitable for both novice and experienced cooks. The inclusion of step-by-step instructions helps beginners to confidently navigate through the recipes, ensuring clear guidance at each stage of cooking.

The cookbook emphasizes ingredient accessibility, making use of commonly available items, which is a plus for those who may not have access to specialty stores. It also introduces a range of cooking techniques, allowing users to expand their culinary skills. The visual appeal of the book is notable, with vibrant images that complement the recipes and enhance the cooking experience.

The expertise of America's Test Kitchen, known for their rigorous testing and reliable recipes, adds a layer of trust and credibility to the cookbook. However, the book's substantial size and weight might be a bit cumbersome for some users. Additionally, while the variety of recipes is a strength, it could also be overwhelming for those who prefer more focused or smaller collections. Despite these minor drawbacks, 'The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook' stands out as a valuable resource for anyone interested in Mediterranean cooking, especially beginners looking to build their culinary confidence.

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs is designed for young cooks, specifically those in grades 4 to 8, and features over 100 recipes. The cookbook excels in providing step-by-step instructions, which are clear and easy to follow, making it suitable for beginners. The recipes vary in complexity, which can help young chefs gradually build their skills. Most ingredients used in the recipes are accessible and can be found in a standard grocery store, making it convenient for young cooks and their parents.

The cooking techniques introduced in the book are fundamental, offering a good learning experience for children who are just starting out in the kitchen. The visual appeal of the cookbook is noteworthy, with plenty of colorful images that make the recipes enticing and easier to understand. The book is authored by America's Test Kitchen, known for their expertise in creating reliable and tested recipes, ensuring the instructions are trustworthy.

However, the book's weight and size might be slightly cumbersome for younger kids to handle. Additionally, while the Lexile measure indicates it's appropriate for reading ages 8 and up, some younger kids may still require adult assistance. In summary, this cookbook is a strong choice for young chefs due to its accessible ingredients, clear instructions, and educational cooking techniques, though it could benefit from being more child-friendly in terms of physical handling and reading level for the youngest users.

From Crook to Cook by Snoop Dogg offers a unique blend of soul food recipes with a celebrity twist, making it an intriguing option for beginner cooks. The cookbook stands out with its approachable recipe complexity, ensuring that novice chefs are not overwhelmed. Each recipe includes step-by-step instructions that are clear and easy to follow, helping users navigate the cooking process without confusion. The ingredients used in the recipes are generally accessible, allowing beginners to find what they need without much hassle.

Snoop Dogg's expertise in the kitchen might not be traditional, but his passion for food shines through, adding a personal and engaging touch to the book. The cooking techniques introduced are straightforward, which is beneficial for those just starting their culinary journey. Visually, the cookbook is appealing, featuring bright, colorful photographs that guide and inspire readers.

Some may find the celebrity aspect to be a bit gimmicky, and those seeking intensive culinary knowledge may need to look elsewhere. However, for beginners who want an enjoyable and easy-to-follow introduction to cooking, this cookbook does a good job. Its hardcover format and reasonable size make it a durable kitchen companion.