10 Best Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

The 'Complete Cooking for Two Cookbook, 10th Anniversary Gift Edition' offers a comprehensive collection with over 700 recipes tailored for two people. The cuisine type is diverse, ranging from simple everyday meals to more elaborate dishes, making it suitable for varied tastes. The skill level is approachable, catering to both beginners and more experienced cooks. This makes it versatile for couples who may have different cooking abilities or want to improve their skills together.

Dietary preferences are addressed to some extent, with options for vegetarians and those looking for healthier choices, though it might not cover all specialized diets extensively. Recipe variety is a strong point, ensuring readers won't run out of new dishes to try. Ingredient accessibility is considered, with most recipes using common ingredients that can be found in local supermarkets, although some might require a bit of searching for specific items.

Visual appeal is satisfactory, with clear and engaging food photography that can inspire users to try the recipes. The author's expertise shines through, as America's Test Kitchen is well-regarded for its meticulous recipe testing and reliability. However, the weight and dimensions of the book might make it cumbersome for some users to handle, and the hardcover format may not be as convenient for quick kitchen reference. This cookbook is a solid choice for couples who enjoy cooking and want a reliable resource with a wide range of recipes.

The 'Go-To Dinners: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook' by Ina Garten, known as the Barefoot Contessa, is a popular choice among home cooks. The author brings her extensive culinary expertise to the table, ensuring that the recipes are both reliable and delicious. The cookbook focuses on a variety of dinner recipes, making it suitable for those who frequently prepare evening meals at home.

The recipes cater to a range of skill levels, from beginners to more experienced cooks, providing clear instructions and tips to help users achieve great results. The book covers multiple cuisine types, primarily focusing on American and comfort food, with some international influences sprinkled throughout. This variety can keep meals interesting and cater to different tastes and preferences.

One of the strengths of this cookbook is its visual appeal. The high-quality photographs are not only beautiful but also serve as a helpful guide for presentation and plating. Additionally, the ingredient lists are generally accessible, with most items available at local grocery stores. Despite its size and weight, which might make it a bit cumbersome to handle in the kitchen, its hardcover format ensures durability. 'Go-To Dinners: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook' is an excellent resource for home cooks looking to expand their dinner repertoire with reliable and visually appealing recipes.

The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook, authored by Ina Garten, is a beloved classic in the cooking world. This cookbook focuses on American cuisine with a twist of gourmet flair, making it versatile for family meals and special occasions. It's suitable for cooks with a moderate skill level, while beginners may find some recipes challenging without basic kitchen skills. The recipes cater to a broad audience with no strict dietary preferences, making it less ideal for those strictly following vegan, gluten-free, or other specific diets.

It offers a diverse range of recipes from appetizers to desserts, ensuring a full culinary experience. Ingredients are generally accessible, with many recipes using common grocery store items, although some may require specialty ingredients. The visual appeal is strong with beautiful photographs that illustrate the recipes clearly, enhancing the cooking experience.

Ina Garten's expertise as a renowned cook and author adds significant value, providing reliable and well-tested recipes. The book is a hardcover with 256 pages, making it a durable addition to your kitchen library. This cookbook is a great choice for home cooks looking to expand their repertoire with gourmet-inspired, yet practical dishes.