Cookbook Recommendations

15 Best Cookbooks for Single Guys for Delicious Meals

Preparing meals can seem overwhelming, particularly for single men juggling hectic schedules and minimal cooking knowledge. Yet, with proper guidance and tools, whipping up delectable dishes can transform into a fulfilling and enjoyable endeavor. Mastering a few simple recipes from user-friendly cookbooks can greatly enhance any man’s life, especially those flying solo. Below, discover the top 15 cookbooks for single guys that will broaden your palate and culinary expertise at home. Don’t worry these new recipes will be worth the effort and no matter your experience any home cook will be able to treat your taste buds to delicious meals. From one-pan wonders to gourmet delights, these cookbooks offer simple night-in staples and easy meal recipes that are a perfect home-cooked meal for any occasion, whether it’s a solo night in or a third date pizza extravaganza.

Cookbooks for Cooking Skills and Techniques

Gaining confidence in the kitchen may feel daunting, but it’s entirely achievable. The key? Keep cooking and embrace learning new skills. The cookbooks listed below provide an excellent starting point for your culinary journey or a chance to refine basic cooking skills for more flavorful meals. Packed with valuable cooking tips, they’re sure to enhance the outcome of your dishes and boost your kitchen confidence.

How-to Cookbook for Kids 

by Nancy Polanco

A perfect first cookbook for any new home cook. It may seem weird to get a cookbook made for kids but when you are just starting to cook you want to learn the techniques easily and simply. This cookbook breaks down the process into step-by-step instructions that will help you make delicious meals the first time, like Sticky Honey Barbecue Wings with Ranch and Perfectly Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes. Click here to read my full review of How-to Cookbook for Kids.

Order your copy of How-to Cookbook for Kids today.* 

Southern Inspired

by Jernard A. Wells

Recreate delicious southern dishes in your kitchen no matter your skill level with this great cookbook. Delicious recipes include Georgia Peach Hot Chicken Sandwich and Spicy Sizzling Skirt Steak. 

Order your copy of Southern Inspired today.*

Cookbooks for Quick and Easy Recipes for Busy Lifestyles

Getting into the habit and rhythm of cooking for yourself doesn’t have to take up all of your time. I understand that time is of the essence, so I’ve chosen these cookbooks that prioritize minimal preparation and cooking time. With easy-to-follow recipes and ingredients readily available in your local grocery store, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your comfort food meals. You can make some pretty amazing meals in a short time using the cookbooks below. 

The Well Plated Cookbook 

by Erin Clarke

One of my favorite cookbooks that offers so many different simple recipes and even offers flexible recipes that suggest other options to tailor the meals to your tastes, plus they are healthy recipes. Make sure to try out the Autumn Sheet Pan Sausages with Apples and Harvest Vegetables, and the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes (there are 5 ways to make this fit your preferences).  Click here to read my full review of The Well Plated Cookbook.

Order your copy of The Well Plated Cookbook today.*

Photo of the cover of The John Wayne Complete Cookbook
The John Wayne Complete Cookbook

by Ethan Wayne, recipes from The Wayne Family

Leave it to The Duke to have some of the best everyday recipes for a hearty meal. Trust me if you pick up a copy of this cookbook be prepared to want to make these man-centric recipes, especially the perfect burger recipes including the Cowboy Burgers and South of the Border Burgers. P.S. This cookbook can be a little hard to find so check eBay first.  Click here to read my full review of The John Wayne Complete Cookbook.

Cookbooks for Meal Prepping

One way for you to make cooking easier is to batch-cook your meals. Meal prepping can be a game changer for a single guy. Don’t stress about how long it will take to meal prep there are a ton of options on how you can do it and the recipes in these cookbooks help you navigate meal prepping even when you have a lack of time. Plus, these cookbooks tend to have healthy meals that are still delicious and filling. 

Meal Prep Magic 

by Catherine McCord 

Learn how to set up your kitchen and meal-prepping for success with this cookbook. Enjoy easy meals including Stuffed Peppers and Italian Braised Beef. 

Order your copy of Meal Prep Magic today.*

The Ultimate Meal Prep Cookbook

by America’s Test Kitchen

Cut out the guesswork of meal prepping with this cookbook – it provides weekly plans and shopping lists, plus it has a list of pantry staples. The recipes also help you prevent a ton of food waste by using ingredients in multiple ways. Some recipes inside this cookbook are Foil-Baked Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Radishes and Steak Tacos. Click here to read my full review of The Ultimate Meal Prep Cookbook. 

Order your copy of The Ultimate Meal Prep Cookbook today.*

Cookbooks for Fishing, Grilling & Smoking

Are you an outdoors guy? Do you prefer to do most of your cooking outside? If you answered yes, I’ve got the best cookbooks for making your meal on the grill or smoker. These useful cookbooks are a must-have in your kitchen and don’t worry the recipes are super easy to follow. 

Hook, Line, and Supper 

by Hank Shaw

Make the most of your fresh catch whether it’s from the lakes or the sea with this cookbook. Try your hand at Cornmeal-Crusted Speckled Trout or Crab Cakes. Click here to read my full review of Hook, Line, and Supper.

Order your copy of Hook, Line, and Supper today.*

Rodney Scott’s World of BBQ

by Rodney Scott & Lois Eric Elie

One of my favorite cookbooks for grilling. It teaches you the basics while providing insanely tasty meals that you won’t believe you made. The Rib Rub is so easy to make and the Rodney’s Spare Ribs are so good. As someone who doesn’t grill a ton, this is a perfect beginner cookbook to learn more about grilling. Click here to read my full review of Rodney Scott’s World of BBQ.

Order your copy of Rodney Scott’s World Of BBQ today.*

Cookbooks for The Film Lover

Passionate about movies? If you’re a film enthusiast like me, you won’t want to miss out on these fantastic movie-themed cookbooks. Featuring clever recipe names and mouthwatering dishes, they’re a delightful fusion of cinema and cuisine that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Dive into the world of cinematic flavors and discover a whole new dimension of deliciousness!

The Princess Bride: The Official Cookbook

by Jenn Fujikawa

“My name in Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.” That may be one of the most famous movie lines in film history. This cookbook is filled with food and drinks inspired by the movie including savory and sweet dishes. The recipes include Storming the Castle (a mixed drink), Mawidge Meatwoaf (meatloaf), and MLT- “Mutton,” Lettuce, and Tomato Sandwich. Click here to read my full review of The Princess Bride: The Official Cookbook.

Order your copy of The Princess Bride: The Official Cookbook today.*

Cooking With Deadpool 

by Marc Sumerak and Elena P. Craig 

Deadpool is my favorite comic book character, I love his sense of humor. This cookbook provides a lot of laughs and great meals such as Dessert Chimi and Stabby Meat Sticks. Click here to read my full review of Cooking With Deadpool.

Order your copy of Cooking With Deadpool today.*

Cookbook for Hosting Parties

Looking to become the ultimate host at your bachelor pad? Then you have to check out these cookbooks for the perfect recipes to show off your kitchen know-how to your friends and family. 

Game-Day: 100 Recipes for Homegating Like A Pro 

by Eddie Jackson

Host game day in your home with this cookbook – whether you are watching football, basketball, or another sport – you and your friends will love these delicious dishes. Recipes include Chipotle Rib Nachos and Spicy Korean Wings all perfect for watching the game. Click here to read my full review of Game-Day Eats: 100 Recipes for Homegating Like A Pro.

Order your copy of Game-Day Eats: 100 Recipes for Homegating Like A Pro today.*

Shaken Drinking with James Bond and Ian Fleming

by Edmund Weil, Bobby Hiddleston & Mia Johansson

When you think of James Bond you immediately think of a martini (or at least I do) but you also think of all the characters he has shared a drink with over the years. Bring a little spy craft to your party with drinks such as Dry Martini, Moneypenny, and Trigger Finger inspired by James Bond. Click here to read my full review of Shaken Drinking with James Bond and Ian Fleming.

Order your copy of Shaken Drinking with James Bond and Ian Fleming today.*

Come On Over: 111 Fantastic Recipes for the Family That Cooks, Eats, and Laughs Together

by Jeff Mauro

Inviting people shouldn’t have to be so overwhelming that you don’t want to do it. This cookbook solves that dilemma by offering great recipes with cooking shortcuts to cut down on cooking time. Recipes include Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese, the best recipe in my opinion, and Crispy Carnitas for a Crowd that are easy to execute and will be a hit with your guests. Click here to read my full review of Come On Over: 111 Fantastic Recipes for the Family That Cooks, Eats, and Laughs Together.

Order your copy of Come On Over: 111 Fantastic Recipes for the Family That Cooks, Eats, and Laughs Together today.*

Cookbooks for Culinary Adventures for Exploring New Flavors

Seeking culinary adventures? Dive into these cookbooks brimming with awe-inspiring dishes that transport your taste buds to distant lands. While some recipes may call for special ingredients, the majority are easily sourced from your local grocery store, ensuring an exciting gastronomic journey right from your kitchen.

101 Asian Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die

by Jet Tila

Asian food can sometimes seem difficult to make but this cookbook breaks down the recipes so a home chef of any level can make a swoon-worthy dish. From General Tso’s Chicken to Street Vendor Pork Satay and Beef Pho recipes you will be able to make your favorites at home any day of the week. Click here to read my full review of 101 Asian Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die.

Order your copy of 101 Asian Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die today.*

The Kitchen Without Borders

by The Eat Offbeat Chefs 

A fantastic cookbook offering recipes from all over the world. The recipes come from the chefs at Eat Offbeat in NYC. Two of the delicious dishes I made were Carne Mechada and Manchurian Cauliflower. Click here to read my full review of The Kitchen Without Borders.

Order your copy of The Kitchen Without Borders today.*

Remember, the key to culinary success lies in experimentation. Don’t hesitate to try new recipes, as you never know when you’ll discover your next favorite dish. Even if your first attempt doesn’t yield perfection, don’t be discouraged—every chef, regardless of experience, faces setbacks in the kitchen. A helpful tip is to thoroughly read the recipe multiple times before you begin cooking, ensuring a smoother process and better results. 

As you keep cooking the recipes from these cookbooks you will find your solo recipe repertoire of dishes that you love. Once you have that list of tasty meals it makes it so much easier to decide what to make for dinner and even gives you ideas of techniques and dishes you may want to explore more with new cookbooks. 

These handpicked cookbooks above offer a wealth of resources for single guys eager to hone their cooking skills and explore new flavors. Whether you’re utilizing a slow cooker, a single skillet, or an oven, these recipes cater to kitchens of all sizes, promising delicious home-cooked meals with every attempt. Embrace the journey of culinary exploration offered by these 15 Best Cookbooks for Single Guys and elevate your cooking experience to new heights. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, these cookbooks provide the perfect blend of guidance and inspiration, making cooking an enjoyable and rewarding endeavor for all. 

Don’t forget to let me know what you make from the cookbooks above! 

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