Stop Wasting Time in the Kitchen:
10 Mistakes You’re Making
10 Mistakes you are probably making - let's fix them!
Ever feel like cooking takes way longer than it should?
You start with a simple recipe, and somehow you’re still in the kitchen 45 minutes later wondering what happened. It’s not you—and it’s not the recipe either.
It’s a handful of small habits that quietly slow everything down.
The good news? Once you fix them, cooking becomes faster, easier, and honestly… way more enjoyable. These are the 10 kitchen mistakes I see all the time—and the simple fixes that will instantly speed things up.
1. Not Reading the Recipe First
You miss steps → everything takes longer.
Quick Fix:
- Read it once before starting
- Check timing + prep
This is especially key for one-pan meals like my One Pan Artichoke Chicken with Feta Orzo—everything flows better when you know what’s coming.
2. Skipping Prep
Chopping while cooking = chaos.
Quick Fix:
- Chop + measure first
- Keep it simple
Think quick recipes like my quinoa salad—prep = speed
3. Overcrowding the Pan
Too much food = no browning.
Quick Fix:
- Give food space
- Cook in batches if needed
Key for crispy potatoes
4. Using the Wrong Heat
High heat isn’t always faster.
Quick Fix:
- Start with medium
- Adjust as needed
"If you’re looking for easy recipes that actually work with your schedule, I’ve got plenty of those too."
5. Not Preheating
Starting cold slows everything.
Quick Fix:
- Preheat oven fully
- Heat pan before cooking
Flavor starts with heat—especially in dishes like One Pan Chicken Cacciatore.
6. Using Dull Knives
Slow chopping = wasted time.
Quick Fix:
- Keep knives sharp
- Use one good chef’s knife
7. Over-Stirring
You’re interrupting the cooking.
Quick Fix:
- Let food sit
- Flip once when ready
Works for salmon + proteins
Here are more helpful posts!
8. Wrong Tools
Small pan = slower cooking.
Quick Fix:
- Use larger pans
- Use the right tool for the job
9. Not Multitasking
You’re waiting instead of cooking.
Quick Fix:
- Prep while things cook
- Start multiple steps at once
This is key for meal prep recipes like Ham & Cheese Egg Bites—everything works together.
10. Doing Everything From Scratch
Unnecessary steps = more time.
Quick Fix:
- Use pre-cooked ingredients
- Take smart shortcuts
Perfect for fast pasta salads + meal prep
The Bottom Line
Cooking doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or time-consuming.
A few small shifts—like prepping ahead, using the right heat, or just giving your food space—can completely change how your time in the kitchen feels.
Start with one or two of these tips tonight, and you’ll notice the difference immediately.
And if you’re looking for easy recipes that actually work with your schedule, I’ve got plenty of those too.
Have you seen these recipes yet?
Hi, I'm Kat.
Welcome to my Kitchen Counter. I’m excited to share with you a new series called “Make my kitchen work for you” along with a collection of blog posts about a variety of topics – building a gluten free pantry, staples to always have on hand and gift guides for the Chef in your life. Take a look around. I’d love to hear from you – do you like these posts?
