1. Perfect Roast Chicken
This chicken is rumored to be the secret key to securing an engagement ring. Nicknamed “Engagement Chicken,” it’s a simple but memorable combination of lemon, garlic, thyme and a whole lot of butter.
2. Beatty’s Chocolate Cake
This rich, moist and velvety chocolate cake was named after a friend of Ina’s. Its decadent flavor is thanks to one signature ingredient: hot coffee in the batter. Topped with a chocolate buttercream, it makes for a perfect signature celebration cake (or a dessert to enjoy all to yourself).
3. Grown-Up Mac and Cheese
Ina transformed the boxed childhood favorite into a Barefoot Contessa culinary masterpiece. Using Gruyère, extra-sharp cheddar cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s an indulgent, comforting upgraded take on the classic dish.
4. Weeknight Bolognese
Bolognese is a dish you should have in your arsenal of recipes you can cook, but if you really want to take your bolognese up a notch, Ina’s recipe is the answer. With a splash of red wine and a little bit of heavy cream, this recipe tastes like it’s been simmering all day even though it can be whipped up in just under an hour.
5. Outrageous Garlic Bread
With the amount of garlic and butter it calls for, the name says it all. This garlic bread is a side dish that belongs on every dinner table and definitely served alongside Bolognese.
6. Lemon Yogurt Cake
Bright, citrusy and just the right amount of sweetness, this loaf cake is Ina’s simple elegance at its finest. A lemon syrup soaks into the cake while it is still warm, then is topped off with a tangy glaze. This is a great recipe for afternoon tea or as a dessert-like grab-and-go breakfast.
7. Outrageous Brownies
These are not your standard bake sale brownies. Loaded with chocolate (and then some more chocolate), Ina’s brownies are dense, fudgy and best shared with loved ones, unless you’d rather not, which is totally understandable.
8. Cosmopolitan
One of the best things about Ina is her generous pour. Her signature cosmo, made with vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice and fresh lime is certifiably Carrie Bradswa approved. It might not be dinner, but not Ina ranking is complete without it.