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Keep It Simple, Y'all: Easy Dinners from Your Barefoot Neighbor: A Cookbook
Are you a beginner in the kitchen or someone with a jam-packed schedule? Do you crave delicious, home-cooked meals but think you don’t have the time or skills to prepare them?
Welcome to Keep It Simple Y’all, a cookbook designed just for you! Whether you’re new to cooking or simply looking for efficient, tasty meal solutions, this book is packed with recipes that will fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle. From comforting slow cooker creations to hassle-free one-pot wonders, sheet pan dinners, and shortcut rotisserie chicken dishes, every recipe is crafted to be straightforward, quick, and utterly satisfying.
Imagine coming home to a savory, slow-cooked stew that’s been simmering all day or whipping up a flavorful sheet-pan dinner with minimal cleanup. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple, readily available ingredients, you’ll find yourself creating wholesome, delicious meals in no time. Each dish is a testament to the fact that cooking can be both effortless and enjoyable, even for the busiest of us.
We, “Nilya PressTM,” are the ones doing the spiral binding and not the author, publisher, or rights holder. Please be aware of this when you purchase this spiral-bound book from the "Nilya Store!" on Amazon.com. We expertly applied a spiral binding for you after purchasing this book, which was originally paper bound and owned by the rights holder! A wonderful spiral-bound book that is easier to handle and opens flat will soon be in your hands, making it simpler to color, sketch, follow a recipe, go over, or take notes for study. If you have any inquiries concerning the spiral binding, please use the Amazon email system to get in touch with us through our "Nilya Store!" storefront. Regards! "Nilya PressTM"
Welcome to Keep It Simple Y’all, a cookbook designed just for you! Whether you’re new to cooking or simply looking for efficient, tasty meal solutions, this book is packed with recipes that will fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle. From comforting slow cooker creations to hassle-free one-pot wonders, sheet pan dinners, and shortcut rotisserie chicken dishes, every recipe is crafted to be straightforward, quick, and utterly satisfying.
Imagine coming home to a savory, slow-cooked stew that’s been simmering all day or whipping up a flavorful sheet-pan dinner with minimal cleanup. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple, readily available ingredients, you’ll find yourself creating wholesome, delicious meals in no time. Each dish is a testament to the fact that cooking can be both effortless and enjoyable, even for the busiest of us.
We, “Nilya PressTM,” are the ones doing the spiral binding and not the author, publisher, or rights holder. Please be aware of this when you purchase this spiral-bound book from the "Nilya Store!" on Amazon.com. We expertly applied a spiral binding for you after purchasing this book, which was originally paper bound and owned by the rights holder! A wonderful spiral-bound book that is easier to handle and opens flat will soon be in your hands, making it simpler to color, sketch, follow a recipe, go over, or take notes for study. If you have any inquiries concerning the spiral binding, please use the Amazon email system to get in touch with us through our "Nilya Store!" storefront. Regards! "Nilya PressTM"
144 pages, Hardcover
First published November 19, 2024
843 people are currently reading
1642 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 29, 2024
Also one of my favorite Tik Tockers, Matthew Bounds showcases recipes that are for every skill level. He doesn't make assumptions about what you might already know, and he isn't snobby about premade ingredients. He doesn't care how dinner gets on your table, and recognizes it's a victory just that it's done, for many of us. His authenticity is refreshing and his recipes delicious!
September 10, 2025
Wow, just wow y'all! This guy, that I first saw in videos, does some real good things in the kitchen.
I went through this book 2 times, reading each recipe and deciding which ones I wanted to try. I can tell you that from what I have sampled that the recipe was not only simple as promised, but delicious as well.
I think what makes this book even more enjoyable to read, but also cook from, is that I hear his voice in my head, almost guiding me along.
I will definitely be looking into his other cookbooks!
I went through this book 2 times, reading each recipe and deciding which ones I wanted to try. I can tell you that from what I have sampled that the recipe was not only simple as promised, but delicious as well.
I think what makes this book even more enjoyable to read, but also cook from, is that I hear his voice in my head, almost guiding me along.
I will definitely be looking into his other cookbooks!
November 21, 2024
Genuinely simple recipes, many of which I think my picky a$s kids will eat 😆
March 17, 2026
Matthew Bounds aka Your Barefoot Neighbor gives us his second book, about putting dinner on the table, and keeping it pretty simple.
He favors one-pot, one-sheet-pan, crockpot meals, which look delicious in his reels.
The recipes are good and while some dishes may have names you're more familiar with (i.e. marry me chicken, or restaurant staples like certain Asian cuisines), Matthew always puts his own twist on them. He also gives credit where credit is due.
The recipes mostly revolve around chicken and pantry/quick fix ingredients. Yes, you do have to do some leg-work in prep if you want to be as fresh as possible (grating your own cheese, chopping your own veggies), but Matthew's recipes are also always incredibly flexible, open to interpretation, and VERY very rarely require you to use ingredients MOST people generally might have in their kitchen.
Like Rachel Ray and other budget-conscious culinary hosts, Matthew tends to favor chicken breasts (I respect him for that) in his meals, but he does always seem to give you a meal (and app and soup and casserole and a dessert) that will appeal to different appetites.
This cookbook is one of the only ones I've seen that features a photo of the completed dish. This book holds over 50 recipes, including at least 5 more of his top recipes from his previous book.
Now, if you cook often and you want inspiration, keep this one on hand. He might surprise you.
If you don't cook often or have a regular stock of recipes, follow his channel online for recipes. This is a pantry staple book for anybody, whether starting out, experienced cook, budget-conscience cook, or just wanting to fix yourself a plate of this, Matthew has you covered.
He favors one-pot, one-sheet-pan, crockpot meals, which look delicious in his reels.
The recipes are good and while some dishes may have names you're more familiar with (i.e. marry me chicken, or restaurant staples like certain Asian cuisines), Matthew always puts his own twist on them. He also gives credit where credit is due.
The recipes mostly revolve around chicken and pantry/quick fix ingredients. Yes, you do have to do some leg-work in prep if you want to be as fresh as possible (grating your own cheese, chopping your own veggies), but Matthew's recipes are also always incredibly flexible, open to interpretation, and VERY very rarely require you to use ingredients MOST people generally might have in their kitchen.
Like Rachel Ray and other budget-conscious culinary hosts, Matthew tends to favor chicken breasts (I respect him for that) in his meals, but he does always seem to give you a meal (and app and soup and casserole and a dessert) that will appeal to different appetites.
This cookbook is one of the only ones I've seen that features a photo of the completed dish. This book holds over 50 recipes, including at least 5 more of his top recipes from his previous book.
Now, if you cook often and you want inspiration, keep this one on hand. He might surprise you.
If you don't cook often or have a regular stock of recipes, follow his channel online for recipes. This is a pantry staple book for anybody, whether starting out, experienced cook, budget-conscience cook, or just wanting to fix yourself a plate of this, Matthew has you covered.
August 3, 2024
Great recipes with simple ingredients!
February 10, 2026
So far I’ve made the creamy lemon shrimp orzo and the pork (chicken) and mushroom Marsala. Both were hits but the shrimp is going to be a new family favorite. 30 min, under $20 in ingredients… and husband and kids loved it. 🩷
March 29, 2025
If you’re a Brooklyn-worthy foodie, this book is not for you. There won’t be broccoli rabe, za’atar, Gochujang Sauce or pomegranate molasses in this cookbook. If you’re looking for “clean” recipes, Paleo, keto, vegan, Whole 30 — anything like that — again, this book is not for you. There will be canned cream of mushroom soup, frozen peas, Lipton’s onion-soup mix, Hidden Valley Ranch dry packets, cornbread stuffing mix and — horror of horrors! — an entire chapter on casseroles.
Now that they’ve all gone away, I’ll address the rest of us. If you’re the typical worker who is tired of frozen TV dinners and can’t even think about affording food delivery, Matthew Bounds has come to the rescue with recipes to make when you’re very busy or tired. He’s packed 60 recipes into this cookbook that cooks can make with items most of us have at hand: pasta, rice, ground beef, chicken (a whole chapter on using rotisserie chicken!), pork chops, canned biscuits and those dreaded packets. I, for one, welcome our new casserole overlord with five processed stars!
Before the lectures begin on processed foods, a homemade casserole — even with cream of celery soup and/or onion-soup mix — beats out frozen pizza or a Subway sandwich for flavor and nutrition. Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good on days you’re just exhausted.
Now that they’ve all gone away, I’ll address the rest of us. If you’re the typical worker who is tired of frozen TV dinners and can’t even think about affording food delivery, Matthew Bounds has come to the rescue with recipes to make when you’re very busy or tired. He’s packed 60 recipes into this cookbook that cooks can make with items most of us have at hand: pasta, rice, ground beef, chicken (a whole chapter on using rotisserie chicken!), pork chops, canned biscuits and those dreaded packets. I, for one, welcome our new casserole overlord with five processed stars!
Before the lectures begin on processed foods, a homemade casserole — even with cream of celery soup and/or onion-soup mix — beats out frozen pizza or a Subway sandwich for flavor and nutrition. Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good on days you’re just exhausted.
February 5, 2026
I love this cookbook, it is my go to for quick/simple weeknight meals.
May 3, 2025
Fairly straightforward recipes, easy instructions.
July 23, 2024
If you're a fan of Southern cuisine or simply adore wholesome, flavorful dishes that bring comfort and joy to the table, "Keep it Simple Y'all" by Your Barefoot Neighbor is an essential addition to your cookbook collection. This delightful compilation of recipes embodies the spirit of Southern cooking—unpretentious, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
The author, known affectionately as Your Barefoot Neighbor, brings a refreshing approach to cooking with an emphasis on simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Each recipe is thoughtfully crafted to be accessible to home cooks of all skill levels, encouraging you to dive into the joys of preparing delicious meals without unnecessary fuss.
What sets this cookbook apart is its authenticity. Your Barefoot Neighbor shares not only recipes but also videos on different social media platforms where even a novice (such as myself) can learn to make new and delicious dishes. The layout of the book is clean and user-friendly, with each recipe presented in a straightforward manner accompanied by beautiful photography that will make your mouth water. You'll find yourself not just cooking but also learning and appreciating the rich heritage behind Southern cooking.
Overall, "Keep it Simple Y'all" by Your Barefoot Neighbor is a gem of a cookbook that deserves a spot on your kitchen shelf. With its down-to-earth charm and mouthwatering dishes, this book is a testament to the timeless appeal of simple, delicious food done right. Grab a copy and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the warmth and flavor of Southern cooking—just as Your Barefoot Neighbor intended and come fix you a plate!
The author, known affectionately as Your Barefoot Neighbor, brings a refreshing approach to cooking with an emphasis on simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Each recipe is thoughtfully crafted to be accessible to home cooks of all skill levels, encouraging you to dive into the joys of preparing delicious meals without unnecessary fuss.
What sets this cookbook apart is its authenticity. Your Barefoot Neighbor shares not only recipes but also videos on different social media platforms where even a novice (such as myself) can learn to make new and delicious dishes. The layout of the book is clean and user-friendly, with each recipe presented in a straightforward manner accompanied by beautiful photography that will make your mouth water. You'll find yourself not just cooking but also learning and appreciating the rich heritage behind Southern cooking.
Overall, "Keep it Simple Y'all" by Your Barefoot Neighbor is a gem of a cookbook that deserves a spot on your kitchen shelf. With its down-to-earth charm and mouthwatering dishes, this book is a testament to the timeless appeal of simple, delicious food done right. Grab a copy and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the warmth and flavor of Southern cooking—just as Your Barefoot Neighbor intended and come fix you a plate!
September 6, 2025
Matthew Bounds’ Keep It Simple, Y’all is the perfect cookbook for anyone craving delicious, fuss-free meals that don’t demand hours in the kitchen. With 60 approachable recipes, from comforting slow cooker favorites like Beef and Mushroom Stroganoff to easy sheet pan dinners and clever one-pot pastas, this collection feels both practical and inspiring. Bounds’ warm, down-to-earth style shines through every page, making even beginner cooks feel confident, while his flexible tips encourage creativity and customization with whatever’s in your pantry. It’s not just a cookbook, it’s an invitation to slow down, eat well, and enjoy the process of cooking without stress. No wonder it’s a bestseller, it’s the kind of book you’ll keep reaching for week after week.
February 19, 2025
One of my favorite #FoodTok creators, so down to earth & who you see is who you get. His recipes are so easy to follow & time saving, as most are one pot meals which I LOVE! I've made a couple of these meals myself & every single one was so delicious. The goat cheese meatball & gnocchi soup - 10\10! Only tweak I made to it was I browned the gnocchi in a hot pan with butter for 5 mins to help them retain their shape & bring out a subtle toasty flavor. Check out this & his other cookbook, you won't be disappointed!
July 16, 2024
I love his recipes from tiktok and purchased this book so I could easily see them without searching online. I wasn't sure about a paperback cookbook but it's thee perfect size to open and lie flat-is while I'm cooking. I'm far from a good cook but his recipes really are simple and easy to follow. I also appreciate that I'm not buying a bunch of strange ingredients and seasonings that I will only use for one recipe and then they will languish in a cupboard until I throw them out.
February 8, 2025
So many great recipes that are tasty and simple. No major techniques needed just basic cooking skills. I love how each recipe has the photo right beside it. All of the ingredients are easily found in a regular home pantry and on the off chance it isn't something you always have on hand it won't be difficult to find at the average grocery store. I follow Matthew on TikTok which led me to discover his book. I recommend Keep It Simple, Y'all for beginner chefs and the more advanced.
November 11, 2025
Perfect for people with minimal cooking skills
I only knew how to make a handful of things before I got this cookbook. I'm now infinitely more comfortable in the kitchen having made 4 or 5 recipes so far. Everything is super easy to find at the store, the instructions in the cookbook are awesome and Matthew's social media platforms have really awesome recipes too. I really like how something difficult like "spinach artichoke lasagna rolls" are extremely easy to make
I only knew how to make a handful of things before I got this cookbook. I'm now infinitely more comfortable in the kitchen having made 4 or 5 recipes so far. Everything is super easy to find at the store, the instructions in the cookbook are awesome and Matthew's social media platforms have really awesome recipes too. I really like how something difficult like "spinach artichoke lasagna rolls" are extremely easy to make
January 7, 2025
Love it! The Salisbury Steak was so yummy! Plus, I love all of the little side notes or how he doesn't make them with fancy ingredients, so it makes it easy! I have a couple of other cookbooks that ingredients are really hard to find or expensive to get. So thank you for making the recipes for everyday people to be able to make them!
March 26, 2025
I don't think this was worth what I paid for it. He's just some random dude who posted what he cooked online.
Recipes are divided into categories: Low & Slow (slow cooker meals), Sheet pan dinners, One-pot meals, Rotisserie Realness and Come for you a Plate. The last chapter are the most popular recipes from his last cookbook.
144 pages. Photos of every recipe.
Recipes are divided into categories: Low & Slow (slow cooker meals), Sheet pan dinners, One-pot meals, Rotisserie Realness and Come for you a Plate. The last chapter are the most popular recipes from his last cookbook.
144 pages. Photos of every recipe.
May 30, 2025
I really love this guy on TikTok and have made several of his recipes previously. I have now made a few more from this book. They are simple, quick and most importantly delicious. Written for the novice cook, the recipes are explained well. Plus this guy and his TikTok followers have raised a ridiculous amount of money for kids in foster care and food pantries.
August 14, 2025
Listen... this man really out here proving supper doesn't have to be a three-act tragedy!!
The recipes are so easy even your grandma would stop side-eyeing you for bringing store-bought potato salad to family gatherings!
The book should come with a warning label: May cause you to suddenly feel like a professional chef while barefoot in your own kitchen.
The recipes are so easy even your grandma would stop side-eyeing you for bringing store-bought potato salad to family gatherings!
The book should come with a warning label: May cause you to suddenly feel like a professional chef while barefoot in your own kitchen.
September 1, 2025
Great cookbook. Super easy and fun
What I really like about this cookbook is that the directions are simple, the ingredients are easy to find, and the backstories are amusing. The recipes are not fussy. This would be a great book for a beginner cook, but super useful for someone more experienced. Love it!
What I really like about this cookbook is that the directions are simple, the ingredients are easy to find, and the backstories are amusing. The recipes are not fussy. This would be a great book for a beginner cook, but super useful for someone more experienced. Love it!
September 26, 2025
Easy recipes that are things that you will actually cook. Not a ton of weird ingredients. I first saw Matthew Bounds on Facebook Reels and was drawn to his simple cooking methods. He doesn’t assume anyone’s level of expertise or experience in the kitchen and writes simple to follow recipes. His videos are great, too and can be found to follow along with the cookbook.
March 14, 2026
Saw this guy on TikTok a while back and started using his recipes. I bought his first cookbook and it was amazing, so I bought this one! I’m eagerly awaiting the release of his newest cookbook because this man DOES NOT MISS!! Very simple and delicious recipes to make dinner time yummy and exciting! Cannot say enough good things about this man and his recipes!
December 3, 2024
Nice collection of quick, easy meals to prepare. I think I need to get myself a copy of this cookbook in the future, I’ve tried a few of them from Your Barefoot Neighbor’s TikTok and they’ve been stellar.
December 6, 2024
LOVE Matthew and I'm using this to teach my kids how to make easy, good meals (for when their gourmet-inspired dad is no longer around to cook for them in college and beyond). Great book, great chef... and you should absolutely follow him on all of the social media channels as well!
May 24, 2025
4.5⭐️ so many easy and quick recipes with ingredients that are not complicated. Husband, 11 year old, and myself all have no issues with the recipes. So far almost all the recipes have been a success in our home.
August 8, 2025
I love following Matthew online and I’m excited to try a few of these recipes for weekly lunch meals. With my son moving out and working a ton, I think these will offer easy options for him too. I’m a huge fan of the accessibility of the recipes!
February 23, 2026
Caught onto this book because of social media. Recipes are not as detailed as I would like (specifically for quantities of certain ingredients). Some recipes were decent, some truly were lacking seasoning or something. Just bland.
March 4, 2026
I borrowed this from my local library. The recipes appear to be simple with basic ingredients. I think my picky family will eat several of the meals. I ended up buying the cookbook because of the number of recipes I want to try.
March 24, 2026
I would like to refer to this cookbook as my "Sunday Meal Ideas". The recipes are simple, but most are over 30 minutes. I feel like the meals are well-balanced and I look forward to trying a few new recipes out from this book!
July 24, 2024
Great cookbook!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews