Learn How to Cook Easy Recipes: Start Here

Start Here: Easy Dinner Paths

Pick what kind of night you’re having, then grab a proven Platter Talk recipe that fits.

Bowl of Spanish rice and beans with a lime and wooden spoon on the side.30 Minute MealsCrispy-potatoes-with-duck-fatAir Fryer RecipesChicken thigh with green beans ane potatoes on a serving plate.Slow Cooker RecipesBowl of baked pasta shells with chicken casserole in the background.Casserole recipesChicken and Biscuits Pot PIe in a black cast-iron skillet.Budget MealsChickn leg quarter on a hot grill.Grill and Smoker Recipes

Why Platter Talk Works for Real Life Cooking

We’re home cooks who like good food and clear directions. Here’s what you can expect when you cook with us:

  • Easy recipes, Midwest comfort + weeknight practical cooking: Approachable dinners that feel simple and satisfying.
  • Browse by time, budget, appliance, leftovers: Air fryer, slow cooker, and casserole recipes for the whole family.
  • Recently updated classics + brand-new recipes: We keep improving old favorites and new recipes all the time.
  • Free weekly recipe email + favorites feature: To keep you updated and allow you to save your favorite recipes.

Fast Dinner Recipes

15-30 minute meals from Platter Talk.

Cozy Casseroles

Family-style is Platter Talk-style: Tasty comfort food recipes that are easy to serve.

Air Fryer Favorites

Crispy results without the fuss.

Slow Cooker = Easy Mode

Set it, walk away, come back to dinner.

Comfort Food Classics

Hearty, familiar Platter Talk meals, and worth repeating.

Easy Sides to Finish the Plate

Fast add-ons that make dinner feel complete.

Latest Recipes and More

Recently Updated Recipes

Meet the Platter Talk Guys

Dan & Scott split their time between Wisconsin and Southwest Florida and are dads to six boys. Good food runs through their veins, and they love showing others how to cook easy recipes.

Learn More About Us

Top Recipes

Easy Comfort Food

Warm Soup Recipes

Sweet Endings

The most popular homemade desserts from Platter Talk.

Cooking Basics You Can Trust

These quick notes are here to help you cook with confidence. For official guidance, we’ve linked the primary sources.

Safe minimum internal temperatures

Use a food thermometer and aim for these minimums:

  • Poultry (chicken/turkey): 165°F
  • Ground meats (beef/pork): 160°F
  • Steaks/roasts/chops: 145°F + rest time
  • Fish: 145°F
Thawing foods safely

The safest methods are: thaw in the refrigerator, in cold water (changing water regularly), or in the microwave if you cook immediately after.

Leftovers and the “2-hour rule”

Refrigerate perishable foods promptly. In general, don’t leave cooked foods sitting at room temperature for long stretches; refrigerate sooner rather than later.

A simple cross-contamination checklist

Keep raw meat/seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods, wash hands often, and use separate cutting boards (or wash/sanitize between tasks).

Sources: USDA safe temperature chart · USDA thawing guidance · CDC food safety basics

Quick Answers

Here’s the fastest way to get to the right recipe without overthinking dinner.

What counts as an “easy” recipe on Platter Talk?

Easy usually means familiar ingredients, clear steps, and no fussy techniques. If you want the fastest wins, start with our 30-minute meals or air fryer recipes.

I need dinner tonight—where should I start?

If time is tight, go straight to 30-minute meals. If you want hands-off cooking, jump to slow cooker meals.

What’s best for feeding a family?

For easy serving and leftovers, start with casserole recipes. They’re built for big portions and repeat meals.

What if I’m trying to keep it budget-friendly?

Head to budget meals and look for recipes that use pantry staples, ground meats, pasta/rice, and simple veggies.

I want something “set it and forget it.”

That’s exactly what the slow cooker meals hub is for, just prep it, walk away, and come back to dinner.

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