Are you ready to experience the rich flavors and romance of French cuisine without the fuss? Look no further! As a beginner, it can be intimidating to dive into the world of French cooking, but fear not – we’re here to guide you through it. With these 20 deliciously easy French recipes, you’ll be whipping up classic dishes like onion soup, coq au vin, and quiche Lorraine in no time.
French cuisine is renowned for its complexity and sophistication, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it without a culinary degree. These simple yet flavorful recipes are perfect for those new to cooking or looking for a quick and easy meal solution. From hearty stews and soups to decadent desserts and sandwiches, we’ve got you covered.
Classic French Onion Soup
A rich and savory soup that’s a staple of French cuisine, this classic recipe is sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil and sauté the onions until they’re softened and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has reduced slightly.
3. Preheat your broiler.
4. To assemble the soup, place a baguette slice in the bottom of an oven-proof bowl. Ladle the hot soup over the bread, followed by a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese.
5. Place the bowls under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Coq au Vin
This classic French dish gets a simplified twist with this easy-to-make recipe. Chicken cooked in red wine, mushrooms, and bacon is a comforting and flavorful meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into 8 pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the onion, mushrooms, red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, garlic, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Simple Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a classic Provençal French dish that’s perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. This simple recipe brings together the rich flavors of roasted vegetables, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 5 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the eggplant slices with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the eggplant on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes or until slightly charred.
5. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer the ratatouille over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick Croque Monsieur
This creamy, cheesy sandwich is a twist on the traditional Croque Monsieur recipe, streamlined to get you eating quickly and satisfyingly. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 ham slices (about 2 ounces each)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of ham, then sprinkle with Gruyère and cheddar cheese.
5. Place another bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and grill for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Effortless Quiche Lorraine
Simplify your brunch game with this effortless quiche recipe that combines the classic flavors of Lorraine. A perfect blend of creamy eggs, rich bacon, and melted cheese will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Gruyère cheese, bacon, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is puffed and the edges are golden brown.
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Basic Beef Bourguignon
Savor the rich flavors of this iconic French dish, featuring tender beef, mushrooms, and a velvety red wine broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or shank, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or similar)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 thyme sprig
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot. Simmer, covered, for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Speedy Tarte Tatin
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create a delicious French classic in no time! With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a sweet and caramelized tarte tatin in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Gala), peeled and halved
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apples and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Sprinkle the sugar and vanilla extract over the apples and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
5. Place the pastry over the apple mixture and tuck the edges under the skillet to prevent burning.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Apple Cake
This moist and flavorful French apple cake is a perfect treat for any occasion. With the sweetness of apples, the crunch of almonds, and the warmth of cinnamon, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (100g) sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Fold in the sliced apples and almonds.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Chocolate Soufflé
A classic dessert that’s sure to impress, this easy chocolate soufflé is a rich and decadent treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be serving up a show-stopping dessert in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) melted unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour in melted butter and whisk until combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared soufflé dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Salade Niçoise
A classic French salad that combines the flavors of tuna, eggs, and olives with a light vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in olive oil (drained)
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, eggs, olives, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and vinegar.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quick Provençal Chicken
Experience the sunshine of Provence with this effortless recipe that combines juicy chicken, fragrant herbs, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Lentil Salad
This classic French salad is a hearty and flavorful mix of tender lentils, fresh greens, and tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and place them in a medium saucepan with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, parsley, tarragon, goat cheese (if using), and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the lentil mixture and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Easy Crème Brûlée
A classic dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make, this Easy Crème Brûlée recipe yields a rich and creamy custard base topped with a caramelized sugar crust. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, heavy cream, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any air bubbles.
6. Pour the custard into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still slightly jiggly.
9. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin and caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Basic Pain Perdu (French Toast)
Basic Pain Perdu (French Toast) Recipe
Pain perdu, also known as French toast, is a classic breakfast or brunch dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe yields a deliciously sweet and eggy treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices onto the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with melted butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and your choice of toppings (such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Speedy Duck Confit
Speedy Duck Confit Recipe
Transform ordinary duck legs into a rich, fall-apart confit with this streamlined recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
- Ingredients:
- 4 duck legs (about 1 1/2 pounds)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine duck legs, honey, brown sugar, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
- Cover the pot and bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2 1/2 hours, or until meat is tender and falls apart easily.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time:
About 2 1/2 hours from start to finish.
French Baguette Sandwich
Elevate your lunch game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the freshness of a baguette with the richness of cheese, ham, and butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of ham (such as prosciutto or serrano)
– 2 slices of Brie or Camembert cheese
– Fresh lettuce leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 3-4 equal pieces.
3. Butter each slice of bread lightly on one side.
4. Top each piece with a slice of ham, followed by a slice of cheese.
5. Add some fresh lettuce leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including baking time)
Easy Gougères (Cheese Puffs)
Easy Gougères (Cheese Puffs) Recipe
Gougères are French-inspired cheese puffs that can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. This easy recipe yields crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside puffs, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 large eggs
- Butter for greasing the baking sheet
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and paprika.
- In a separate bowl, combine warmed milk, beaten eggs, and grated cheese. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Potato Dauphinoise
Experience the rich flavors of French cuisine with this simple yet decadent potato dish. Creamy Potato Dauphinoise is a comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine the sliced potatoes and enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer.
4. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then pour the creamy mixture evenly over the potatoes.
5. Top with the remaining potato slices and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme leaves (if using).
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quick Cassoulet
This simplified recipe for cassoulet, a traditional French dish from the Languedoc region, combines rich flavors and textures in under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup canned white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern)
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in white beans, chicken broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Remove foil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Strawberry Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this classic French tart, showcasing sweet strawberries atop a buttery pastry crust and crumbly frangipane filling. This elegant treat is perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup frangipane (almond paste)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread frangipane evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Arrange strawberries on top of frangipane, leaving some space between each slice.
5. Fold the pastry edges up and press gently to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over the crust and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of French cooking with these 20 simple and delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From classic soups like French Onion to decadent desserts like Chocolate Soufflé, this collection has something for everyone. Learn how to make Coq au Vin, Ratatouille, and Quiche Lorraine with ease, or try your hand at Tarte Tatin and Crème Brûlée. With a range of recipes from appetizers to main courses, you’ll be cooking like a French chef in no time. Perfect for those new to French cuisine or just looking for some inspiration, this article has got you covered!
