Skillet Recipes
A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Recipes Using Skillet
(512)
Baked Herb-Crusted Cod with Cauliflower Rice and Avocado Mango Salsa
Flaky white cod fillets baked with a crispy herb and almond flour crust, served over light cauliflower rice and topped with fresh avocado-mango salsa.
Pecan-Crusted Rack of Venison with Cranberry-Port Sauce and Roasted Root Vegetables
Premium rack of venison coated with a sophisticated pecan and herb crust, served with a rich cranberry-port reduction sauce and accompanied by roasted winter root vegetables.
Maple Pecan-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Wild Rice
Fresh Atlantic salmon glazed with a maple-pecan reduction that creates a caramelized crust, served with roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in bacon and finished with toasted pecans, alongside nutty wild rice pilaf.
Pistachio and Goat Cheese Risotto with Roasted Butternut Squash and Crispy Sage
Creamy risotto infused with toasted pistachios and tangy goat cheese, topped with caramelized roasted butternut squash and crispy sage leaves.
Honey Walnut Glazed Duck Breast with Pomegranate Quinoa and Roasted Fennel
A delightful combination of seared duck breast with a sweet honey walnut glaze, served alongside nutty quinoa studded with pomegranate seeds and roasted fennel.
Ghee-Roasted Eggplant Stuffed with Spiced Lentils
A flavorful dish featuring eggplant roasted in ghee, filled with spiced lentils, and topped with vibrant pomegranate seeds.
Ghee-Spiced Lamb Curry with Coconut Milk
A rich and aromatic lamb curry made with ghee and coconut milk, served with ghee naan and fragrant basmati rice.
Thai-Inspired Crispy Pork Belly Tacos
Tacos filled with crispy pork belly, mango salsa, peanut crema, and crushed peanuts wrapped in blue corn tortillas.
Bacon and Blue Cheese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Balsamic Glaze
Large portobello mushroom caps filled with crispy bacon crumbles, tangy blue cheese, fresh herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked until golden and drizzled with sweet balsamic reduction.
Chicken Vindaloo Naan Pizza
Crispy naan bread topped with spicy chicken vindaloo, caramelized onions, melted mozzarella, and dollops of sweet mango chutney for an Indo-Italian fusion that perfectly balances heat, sweetness, and comfort.
Greek-Style Stuffed Tomatoes (Gemista)
Large beefsteak tomatoes hollowed out and stuffed with aromatic rice mixed with fresh herbs, toasted pine nuts, golden raisins, and Mediterranean spices, then baked until tender.
Roasted Tomato and Goat Cheese Galette with Caramelized Onions and Fresh Thyme
A rustic free-form tart featuring slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, sweet caramelized onions, fresh thyme, all wrapped in a flaky pastry crust with cornmeal for extra crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I cook in a skillet?
Skillets are workhorses in the kitchen, perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to impressive weekend meals. They excel at searing meats like steak, chicken, and pork chops, creating a delicious crust. You can also use them to sauté vegetables for stir-fries, frittatas, or as a side dish. For breakfast, skillets are fantastic for cooking eggs (scrambled, fried, or omelets), pancakes, and even baking a skillet cookie or cornbread. Think beyond stovetop cooking too! Many skillet recipes, like a Dutch baby pancake or a deep-dish pizza, start on the stovetop and finish in the oven. Skillets are also ideal for one-pan meals like paella or skillet lasagna. Don't be afraid to experiment; their versatility is truly remarkable. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed depending on your specific skillet and recipe.
What can I make in a skillet?
Skillets are workhorses in the kitchen, perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to impressive weekend feasts. Think beyond just frying eggs! You can sear steaks to crispy perfection, sauté vegetables for a stir-fry, or bake a delicious skillet cookie. They're also fantastic for one-pan meals like skillet lasagna or jambalaya, minimizing cleanup. Consider a frittata for a brunch dish or a simple roasted chicken for dinner. Even desserts are skillet-friendly; try a deep-dish pizza or a fruit crumble. The possibilities are truly endless – let your culinary creativity run wild!
How do I use a skillet properly for searing meat?
Searing meat in a skillet is all about achieving that perfect brown crust. First, ensure your meat is patted completely dry with paper towels; moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Then, preheat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot. Add a high-smoke-point oil, such as canola or avocado oil, and let it heat up before adding the meat. Don't overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and steam the meat instead of searing it. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side without moving the meat, allowing a crust to form. If it sticks, it's not ready! Once seared, you can finish cooking the meat in the skillet or transfer it to the oven for a more even cook. For example, a thick-cut steak might benefit from being finished in the oven after being seared on the stovetop. Deglaze the pan with wine or broth after removing the meat to make a flavorful pan sauce.
Is a skillet worth it? What are the benefits of using one?
Absolutely! A good skillet is an essential piece of cookware for any home cook. One of the biggest benefits is its versatility – you can use it for searing, frying, sautéing, baking, and even braising. The flat bottom provides even heat distribution, crucial for consistent cooking. Skillets are also relatively easy to clean, especially non-stick versions. They're durable and can last for years with proper care. Whether you're whipping up a quick breakfast scramble, searing a salmon fillet, or baking a comforting cornbread, a skillet will be your go-to pan. A good skillet is definitely an investment that pays off in delicious meals and ease of cooking.
Is a skillet worth it for a beginner cook?
Absolutely! A good skillet is one of the most essential pieces of cookware for any home cook, especially beginners. Its versatility makes it a great investment. You can use it for so many things, from simple tasks like frying eggs to more complex recipes like chicken stir-fry or one-pan pasta dishes. It's also relatively easy to clean, especially if you opt for a non-stick skillet. A skillet can also help you develop essential cooking skills like searing, sautéing, and browning. Start with easy skillet recipes like scrambled eggs, grilled cheese, or simple vegetable stir-fries to build confidence. As you become more comfortable, you can tackle more challenging recipes like frittatas or pan-seared salmon. A skillet will definitely become a go-to tool in your kitchen.
How do I use a skillet properly for searing?
Searing in a skillet is all about achieving that perfect crust on your food. First, make sure your skillet is screaming hot – preheat it over medium-high to high heat until a drop of water sizzles and evaporates almost instantly. Pat your meat (steak, chicken, pork chops) dry with paper towels; this is crucial for browning. Add a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or canola to the skillet. Carefully place the meat in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let it sear undisturbed for several minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Resist the urge to move it around! Then, flip and sear the other side. For thicker cuts, you can finish cooking in the oven after searing. Remember to use tongs to turn the meat instead of a fork to avoid piercing it and losing juices.
What are some easy skillet recipes for weeknight dinners?
Skillets are perfect for quick and easy weeknight dinners. One-pan pasta dishes are a great option; simply cook your pasta, vegetables, and sauce all in the same skillet. Chicken stir-fries with pre-cut veggies and a flavorful sauce come together in minutes. Quesadillas are another quick and customizable option. For something heartier, try a skillet shepherd's pie with ground beef or lamb topped with mashed potatoes. Skillet fajitas with sliced bell peppers, onions, and your choice of protein are also a crowd-pleaser. Many websites have sections dedicated to '30-minute skillet meals' for more inspiration. Don't forget the classics, like a quick skillet pizza or a simple chicken and vegetable sauté. The key is to choose recipes with minimal ingredients and quick cooking times.
What are some skillet tips for beginners?
If you're new to using a skillet, don't worry, it's easy to learn! Start by understanding your stovetop's heat settings. Medium heat is usually best for sautéing vegetables, while medium-high to high is ideal for searing meat. Always preheat your skillet before adding oil or food. Don't overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent proper browning. Use the right amount of oil – not too little, or your food will stick; not too much, or it will become greasy. Invest in a good-quality spatula to easily flip and move food around. And most importantly, practice! The more you use your skillet, the more comfortable and confident you'll become. Try starting with simple recipes like scrambled eggs or a basic vegetable stir-fry, then move on to more complex dishes like skillet chicken or pasta.
What type of foods work best in a skillet?
Foods that benefit from searing, sautéing, or browning tend to work exceptionally well in a skillet. Think about proteins like steak, chicken breasts, pork chops, and salmon fillets. Vegetables like onions, peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini also cook beautifully in a skillet, developing a nice caramelization. Skillets are also great for egg-based dishes like omelets, frittatas, and quiches. Furthermore, dishes where you want to achieve a crispy texture, such as fried potatoes or a golden-brown crust on a pizza, are ideal for skillet cooking. Even foods like cornbread, cookies, and cakes can be successfully baked in a skillet, offering a unique presentation. The key is to consider the cooking method and the desired outcome. If you're aiming for a nicely browned, slightly crispy exterior, a skillet is often the perfect choice.
Can you cook fish in a skillet? What's the best way?
Absolutely! Skillets are excellent for cooking fish, especially delicate fillets like salmon, cod, or tilapia. The key is to use the right technique to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Start with a clean, dry skillet (non-stick is ideal). Pat the fish dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Preheat the skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon or two of oil (again, a high-smoke-point oil is best). Season the fish with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Place the fish skin-side down (if it has skin) in the hot skillet. Cook for several minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Gently flip the fish and cook for another few minutes until it's cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as fish can dry out quickly. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds a bright finishing touch.
How long should I cook chicken breasts in a skillet, and at what temperature?
Cooking chicken breasts in a skillet depends on their thickness. Generally, for a boneless, skinless chicken breast that's about 1 inch thick, you'll want to cook it over medium heat for approximately 5-7 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the breast. Before cooking, pat the chicken dry and season it generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. You can also add a little oil to the skillet to prevent sticking. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent proper browning. If your chicken breasts are thicker, you may need to reduce the heat slightly and cook them for a longer period, or finish them in the oven after searing them in the skillet to ensure they cook through without burning on the outside.
What temperature should I use for cooking chicken in a skillet?
The ideal temperature for cooking chicken in a skillet depends on whether you're searing, sautéing, or pan-frying. For searing chicken breasts or thighs to achieve a crispy skin, use medium-high to high heat. This allows the outside to brown quickly without overcooking the inside. If you're sautéing diced chicken for a stir-fry or pasta dish, medium heat is best to cook the chicken evenly without burning it. For pan-frying breaded chicken cutlets, medium heat is also recommended to ensure the breading doesn't burn before the chicken is cooked through. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady temperature and prevent the chicken from burning or undercooking. Remember, a little patience and attention to detail will result in perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.