11 Recipes You’re Overcomplicating for No Reason

This article was written with AI assistance.

Cooking doesn’t have to be a challenge, yet some people make dishes more complicated than they really are. Next time you’re in the kitchen, step back and simplify. These dishes don’t need extra steps to taste incredible, so stop overthinking them.

Cooking scrambled eggs.Photo byLisa MarcAurele

Photo credit: Lisa MarcAurele

Scrambled Eggs

You don’t need fancy ingredients or methods to make fluffy scrambled eggs. A dash of salt, some butter, and low heat will do the job perfectly. Skip the cream or extra steps!

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This classic pasta dish combines garlic, olive oil, and spaghetti. Keep it simple! If desired, toss with a bit of red pepper and parmesan, and you’re set. There is no need for extra sauces or complex additions.

Grilled Cheese

You don't need gourmet bread or five different cheeses. Use your favorite bread, some butter, and one or two types of cheese. Grilling slowly on low heat gives that perfect crispy, melty bite.

Mashed Red PotatoesPhoto byLittle Bit Recipes

Mashed Potatoes

All you need are boiled potatoes, a little butter, and some milk or cream. There's no need for fancy techniques. A simple mash seasoned with salt and pepper is always a hit.

Guacamole

All you really need is ripe avocados, lime juice, salt, and maybe some diced onion or cilantro. There’s no need to add a dozen ingredients. Let the avocados shine.

Pancakes

Pancakes are easy! Just whisk together flour, baking powder, milk, melted butter, and eggs. There's no need for a fancy mix or tons of toppings. Drizzle with syrup, and you're good to go.

Tofu Stir FryPhoto byLittle Bit Recipe

Stir-Fry

Keep stir-fries simple with just a few vegetables, a protein, and a quick sauce of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Skip the long marinating times and complicated sauces.

Salad Dressing

Homemade dressing doesn’t need to be complex. A basic vinaigrette is just oil, vinegar, and mustard. Forget those long ingredient lists and stick to a simple mix for a fresh, vibrant salad.

Smoothies

If you're craving a smoothie, stick to a basic blend of fruit, a liquid (like milk or juice), and a handful of greens. Avoid overloading with superfoods or too many ingredients.

Roasted Cabbage SteaksPhoto byLittle Bit Recipes

Roasted Vegetables

A drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper is all it takes to perfect roast veggies. There is no need to add elaborate seasonings or fancy cooking techniques. Just sit back and let the oven do the work.

Tacos

You don’t need to load tacos with every topping under the sun. Stick to a tasty protein, fresh veggies, and a simple sauce or salsa. The flavor is in the balance, not excess.