In a world full of competition and fine taste, producing the most sophisticated food around is oftentimes the goal. However, many people are not attracted to such food at all. Most average people, in fact, prefer home cooked meals and home cooking recipes. Home cooked meals are appealing and enjoyed by all because they are familiar, and because their tastes and flavors are often associated with a childhood memory or tradition. Everyone has a favorite home cooking recipe-what is yours?

Momma's Beef Macaroni

Macaroni and cheese is one of the most classic home cooked dishes, and it is a favorite throughout the United States. To make a delicious macaroni and cheese, begin by assembling the following ingredients: 8 oz. macaroni, 1 lb. ground beef, cup oil, 1 tbs. salt, 1 cup chopped onion, one 8 oz. Can of mushroom pieces, 1 cup chopped green pepper, 1 can creamed corn, 1 clove minced garlic, 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce, tsp. pepper, 2 tsp. chili powder and 1 tall can pitted olives.

Begin by browning the ground beef. Mix in the garlic, chopped onions and green peppers before adding the corn, tomatoes, chili powder, pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Cook slowly, turning down the heat, until all the vegetables are brown and soft. Mix in the macaroni noodles and then add the olives. Mix and add the mushroom pieces. If needed, moisten the mixture with water. Pour into a 2- quart casserole dish and bake for 1-1/3 hours in a covered dish. Make sure the oven is set to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the cover for the last half hour of cooking for a browned top.

Manly Meatloaf

Yet another favorite home cooking recipe is meatloaf, and there are many good recipes for this dish. Part of home cooking any recipe is giving it a special touch and making it unique to your kitchen. The following recipe for meatloaf does just that.

The chef will need 2 large eggs, 1 drained can of diced tomatoes with sweet onions, one 8 oz can of tomato sauce, 1 pound of lean ground beef, 1 cup plain dry brain crumbs, 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar and no-stick cooking spray.

First, mix the eggs, breadcrumbs, beef and diced tomatoes in a bowl. Next, line a baking sheet with foil and coat with the no-stick cooking spray. Take the meat mixture and form it into a loaf. In a separate bowl, mix the tomato sauce and sugar and set aside.

Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes, then remove and pour the tomato mixture over the top. Bake the meatloaf for an additional 25-30 minutes at 350 degrees and then serve. Add roasted potatoes and carrots by cutting the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and placing them around the meatloaf before baking. These is a great feel-good, one pan meal the whole family will love

Fine Flavors

Home cooking recipes might not be gourmet, and typically do not incorporate healthy home cooking habits. However, home cooking recipes are typically characterized by flavor, not health or sophistication. But they're enjoyable all the same.