10 Cookbooks FIRST Editors Depend on for Meal Inspiration

Eat What You Watch: A Cookbook for Movie Lovers by Andrew Rae

Where to buy: $17 (Originally $25), Amazon

"I love cookbooks that show just how fun cooking can be and Eat What You Watch is particularly great because every recipe is based off of an iconic food scene from some of the biggest movies around (think the prison pasta scene from Goodfellas or the pastrami sandwich from When Harry Met Sally). The recipes are easy to follow, super fun to make, and insanely delicious. I'm a huge fan of Andrew Rea's YouTube series Binging with Babish, so when he put out his own cookbook, I knew I had to add it to my collection."  — Sarah Vazquez, Assistant Editor. 

BUY NOW

Chocolate-Covered Katie by Katie Higgins

Where to buy: $12.59 (Originally $20), Amazon

"Not your typical 'healthy' cookbook, this collection of recipes truly prioritizes both nutritiousness and deliciousness. All these dessert recipes are vegan with tons of health benefits, but you'd never guess it just by looking at them — or tasting them! Courtesy of Katie Higgins from the dessert blog Chocolate-Covered Katie, this cookbook will truly transform the way you think about treating yourself." — Jaclyn Anglis, Web Editor 

BUY NOW

The 4-Hour Chef by Timothy Ferris

Where to buy: $21.87 (Originally $32), Amazon

"4-Hour is touted as the cookbook for people who don't buy cookbooks. As much as I love to cook, I'm also very busy. 4-Hour Chef gives practical cooking and recipe tips that I can use every day to improve my cooking skills." – Christopher Lee, Engineering Manager

BUY NOW

Superfood Kitchen by Julie Morris

Where to buy: $16.20, Amazon

"When the 'superfood' explosion started a couple years ago, I came across this wonderful book from Julie Morris and haven't put it down since. Since a lot of superfoods seem unfamiliar, figuring out how to cook with them without a guideline can be pretty tricky. Julie not only shares a bunch of delicious ways to incorporate these nutrient-rich foods into your diet, she goes in depth explaining their health benefits. One part superfood dictionary, one part recipe guide, this is one cookbook I think everyone should own." — Sarah Vazquez, Assistant Ediitor

BUY NOW

Dinner: Changing the Game by Melissa Clark

Where to buy: $17.14 (Originally $35), Amazon

"I turn to this cookbook when I've run out of ideas. We tend to have the same handful of meals over and over again which can get boring. So if I want a fresh take on dinner, I open up Dinner. There's nothing that's so unfamiliar as to be intimidating, but plenty of meals that I never think to make myself." - Lili Zarghami, Editorial Director

BUY NOW

Off the Shelf by Donna Hay

Where to buy: Starting at $5.44, Amazon

"I can't help but share another one. This cookbook was released in 2001 and I remember picking it up off the bookstore shelf because of the beautiful photos. The premise is that these are recipes you can make with the items that are already in your pantry. Not always true for me, but I still like the inspiration." — Lili Zarghami, Editorial Director 

BUY NOW

Pasta by Erica De Mane

Where to buy: $15.62, Amazon

"Everyone has a cookbook that they remember as the one in their mother's kitchen. For me, it was Pasta by Erica De Mane. Filled with dozens of delicious pasta recipes, I knew when I saw this book open on the counter that dinner was going to be especially delectable that night. To this day, I reference this book when wanting to treat myself to a pasta night. Also, if you're looking for the best Bolognese recipe around, you'll find it in here." — Sarah Vazquez, Assistant Editor

BUY NOW

Dining In: Highly Cookable Recipes by Alison Roman

Where to buy: $17.47 (Originally $30), Amazon

"I first discovered Alison Roman when her recipe for Salted Butter and Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Cookies went viral — and yes, they were worth the hype — but her cookbook, Dining In, proves to be much more than a fleeting trend. The recipes (think: yummy veggie stews, fresh salads, grilled meats) are unique but totally approachable — much like Alison herself. Her writing is super warm and witty, so it feels like you’re cooking with a funny friend." — Megan Cahn, Senior Editor

BUY NOW

Cravings and Cravings: Hungry for More by Chrissy Teigan

Cravings: $16.79 (Originally $29.99), Amazon

Cravings: Hungry for More: $16.46 (Originally $29.99), Amazon

"I'm an unashamed sucker for pretty much anything Chrissy Teigen wants to sell me. These creative recipes range from super rich and indulgent to fresh, light, and undeniably scrumptious. My roommate and I were big fans of the everything bagel casserole she included in the second book!" — Jess Catcher, Web Editor

BUY NOW

See more of our best product recommendations.

More from FIRST

10 Best Superfood Cookbooks for Delicious, Nutritious Meals

5 Intermittent Fasting Cookbooks That'll Keep You Full Long After You Feast

The Best Keto Cookbooks to Keep You Full and Happy on Your Diet