The Beginner’s Table

About Me

Hi, I’m Tess! I’m a homebody at heart who finds joy in the simple pleasures of life—cooking, baking, and spending time surrounded by flowers and my garden. I love exploring new recipes and learning how to create new things, whether it’s in the kitchen or my backyard. My blog is all about sharing my journey as I try new recipes and techniques, making the mistakes so you don’t have to. Welcome to my corner of the world—I’m so glad you’re here!

Kitchen Classics

Step-by-Step Mexican-Inspired Shredded Beef Recipe for Beginners | Easy and Delicious from Real Food Whole Life

I’ve made this recipe a few times now and have definitely ventured away from the original instructions. The first time I tried it, I felt a bit intimidated—after all, I’d never cooked a chuck roast before, let alone in my crock pot! But after giving it a few tries and making it my own, I’ve […]

Oven Delights

Making Ambitious Kitchen’s Best Cinnamon Rolls: Here’s How It Went

In my family, Christmas morning isn’t just about presents under the tree; it’s also about gathering around the table for a cozy, delicious breakfast. Every year, we enjoy our favorite traditions, but I wanted to try something new this time—a recipe that could become a permanent part of our holiday spread. Enter Ambitious Kitchen’s Best […]

Oven Delights

Making Natasha’s Kitchen Easy Cinnamon Muffins: My Experience and Results

Looking for the perfect baked good for a holiday brunch? I needed something special for my in-laws’ Christmas gathering and found Natasha’s Kitchen Easy Cinnamon Muffins. With their warm cinnamon flavor, they seemed perfect for the occasion, so I gave them a try—here’s how they turned out! Ingredients & Kitchen Time Prep Time: 15 minutes […]

Kitchen Classics

Easy Three Cheese Spinach Lasagna Recipe: A Delicious Comfort Food Classic

Lasagna is the ultimate comforting dish, the kind of meal that any parent or grandparent would make to remind you of home. For me, this recipe brings back so many memories of childhood. It was the first dish I made the first time I hosted and cooked for others—an experience that made me feel like […]

Kitchen Classics

Betty’s Mom’s Cheese Potatoes: Simple, Cheesy, Delicious

Today, we’re making Betty’s Mom’s Cheese Potatoes. Ironically, my mom isn’t named Betty, but this recipe comes from a newspaper clipping tucked into Grandma’s cherished spiral-bound recipe book. While it’s not a recipe Grandma originally created, there’s something undeniably comforting about a classic, old-fashioned cheesy potato dish.