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 New Cooking School Cookbook: Fundamentals is designed as a thorough guide for home cooks looking to build a solid foundation in cooking. Published by America's Test Kitchen, a trusted name known for tested and reliable recipes, this book covers a broad range of basic cooking techniques and recipes, making it ideal for beginners or those wanting to improve their skills. The emphasis is on fundamental skills rather than specific global cuisines, which makes it great for anyone wanting to master versatile cooking techniques.

The book’s large size and weight reflect its extensive content—680 pages—indicating a wide recipe variety and detailed instructions. It offers clear explanations and step-by-step guidance suitable for those with limited experience. Ingredient accessibility is generally good with America's Test Kitchen, as they tend to focus on common ingredients found in most grocery stores. While it does not explicitly highlight dietary preferences, its broad approach makes it adaptable for various needs, though specialized diets might require additional resources.

Visual appeal is strong, with quality images and illustrations that help readers follow steps easily, enhancing the learning experience. Thanks to the publisher’s expertise, the book provides trustworthy and tested recipes that prioritize success in the kitchen. The comprehensive nature and size might feel overwhelming to some, and those seeking quick, niche cuisine-focused recipes or strict dietary plans may prefer other specialized cookbooks. Nevertheless, it serves as a fundamental cooking resource for anyone wanting to confidently improve their cooking from the ground up.

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.