The Pioneer Woman Cooks―The Essential Recipes: 120 Greatest Hits, New Twists, and Perfected Classics

by Ree Drummond

The ninth blockbuster cookbook by #1 New York Times bestselling author Ree Drummond, featuring tested, perfected versions of her all-time favorite, most crowd-pleasing, and timelessly popular recipes—the classics that families turn to every day and year after year.

Bestselling author, Food Network personality, businesswoman, and mother of five Ree Drummond has her fair share of dog-eared and oil-splattered recipes in constant rotation. She’s learned a lot since she first started sharing recipes with the world almost twenty years ago, and now when she’s in the kitchen, her main focus is finding ways to make her all-time favorite dishes even more delicious versions of themselves—and to ensure each method is absolutely foolproof. This is a book of everybody’s tried-and-true Ree favorites, but re-examined, re-worked, and made even more perfect than the original, so that Ree's millions of fans (and their families) can share in the delicious results!

Ree focuses on her can’t-live-without dishes—those classic favorites that families turn to, week in and week out, no matter the era or generation—and including many dishes that are destined to be classics for years to come. Whether you’re just starting out as a home cook or you’re already a seasoned pro at feeding a family, you’ll love this one stop shop for all the recipes Ree and her family have loved most for the past twenty-five years, made even better this time around. Because if a recipe is worthy of repeating, it’s worthy of perfecting.

The Pioneer Woman The Essential Recipes serves up dishes for every occasion,

Even more perfect pancakes, for truly memorable breakfasts Macaroni and cheese, for an indulgent dinner or versatile sideMeatloaf, mastered by Ree for a comforting supperSplendid, simple pot roast, the perfect Sunday dinnerChicken pot pie, for a taste of nostalgiaSublime scalloped potatoes with ham—rich, hearty, and so deliciousClassic pies and cookies for every occasionAlongside these re-tested and revamped classics, you’ll find variations to suit the pickiest palate and offer options for every occasion, like French Dip, Whiskey Carrots, and Chocolate Sheet Cake. And detailed instructions for Roast Chicken, French Fries, and Hard-Boiled Eggs Once and for All will give you the go-to methods you’ll turn to time and again.

To take away the guesswork, Ree presents all her recipes with step-by-step photos, her signature style from day one. There are also useful tips and tricks for home cooks who are looking to streamline their meal-prep efforts and revolutionize the time they spend in the kitchen, including Ree’s failsafe tips for getting ahead.

With all your very favorite tried-and-true recipes in one spot, figuring out your next meal has never been so easy. If there’s ever been a cookbook Ree considers her recipe bible . . . this is the one!

Genres: Cookbooks, Cooking, Nonfiction, Food, Reference

400 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2025

About the author

Ree Drummond began blogging in 2006 and has built an award-winning website, where she shares recipes, showcases her photography, and documents her hilarious transition from city life to ranch wife. She is the author of the #1 New York Times bestselling cookbook The Pioneer Woman Cooks . Ree lives on a working cattle ranch near Pawhuska, Oklahoma, with her husband, Ladd; their four kids; their beloved basset hound; and lots of other animals.

Reviews

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.

There are so many amazing recipes included in this cookbook, things that truly are essentials for those who cook at all. What I really like about this cookbook is that there isn't just one photo of each recipe, but multiple, showing what each step should look like. Very useful for newer cooks or those recipes you have never tried before. I really wish every recipe book would do this.

Definitely would recommend this!

[Pattie Tierney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ree Drummond, the queen of rustic ranch cooking, has been dishing out her signature recipes for years through her blog, TV show, and a shelf's worth of cookbooks. Her latest, The Pioneer Woman Cooks: The Essential Recipes, is billed as her definitive collection, a curated roundup of 120 "tried and true" favorites that span the spectrum of everyday meals. If you're a fan, this feels like a warm, flour-dusted hug from an old friend. If you're new to Ree's world, it's a solid entry point into her no-fuss, flavor-packed style. But as with much of her work, it's not without its quirks.

Drummond organizes her essentials into intuitive chapters: Breakfasty Food (think hearty skillets and stacks of pancakes), Lunchy Food (quick sandwiches and salads), Pizza, Casseroles, Beef, Chicken, Pork, Seafood, Potatoes & Sides, and Desserts & Drinks. These are the recipes that built her empire, think cheesy chicken enchiladas, slow-cooker pot roast, or her infamous chocolate sheet cake. She's tweaked a few for the better (streamlined steps, updated tips), and many include variations to keep things fresh. Yields, prep times, and substitution notes make it beginner-friendly, while her signature storytelling—tales of family dinners or kitchen mishaps—adds that personal touch.

What stands out is the visual feast. Every single recipe gets a mouthwatering full-color hero shot of the finished dish, which is a treat in a genre where skimpy photography is all too common. Fans will devour this; it's like flipping through Ree's Instagram feed, but with substance.

For seasoned cooks, much of this will feel like home turf—classic American fare that's indulgent and approachable. Nothing here demands Michelin-level skills; even the more involved casseroles come with clear yields and timelines. I can already picture myself whipping up her beef stroganoff on a chilly weeknight or her berry trifle for a summer barbecue. The recipes aren't health-focused (butter and cream are stars, as they should be in Ree's playbook), but that's part of the appeal—it's food that tastes like nostalgia, the kind that fueled childhood memories without apology.

The step-by-step instructions shine for novices, breaking down techniques with precision. And those personal anecdotes? They're gold, turning a cookbook into a fireside chat. If you've grown up on similar hearty eats, you'll nod along and reach for your apron.

Here's where I part ways with the hype: the exhaustive step-by-step photography. Every whisk, chop, and stir gets its own snapshot—three images just for mixing dry ingredients? There were 17 photos for lemon poppyseed muffins alone. Seventeen! Yes, it’s a nod to her blog's origins, which catapulted her to fame with that hyper-detailed, tutorial-like vibe, but in book form, it borders on patronizing. Most home cooks don't need a visual aid for sautéing onions; we get it. This photo overload eats up real estate, meaning fewer recipes could have squeezed in. A trim of 50% of those interim shots would have made room for more variety without sacrificing the essentials.

It's a deliberate choice, sure—Ree's brand is all about hand-holding for the kitchen-curious. Her devotees will lap it up as the thoughtful touch it is. But for those of us who skim recipes like pros, it slows the pace and bloats the pages.

I received an advanced digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Grace grace_loves_books13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

An INCREDIBLE collection of recipes! As a long time Ree Drummond fan and a big cookbook fan, this book is top notch!! While narrowly focused cookbooks can be fun, I find immense value in this broad cookbook full of the Pioneer Woman’s “essential recipes”. Perfect for families.

While other cookbooks sometimes fail at providing just one picture per recipe, this gem is chock full of pictures, including for each step of each recipe!!

I love the personal pictures and tidbits Ree shares throughout. I’m especially always a sucker for her basset hound pictures!!

I highly recommend this cookbook for all and want a physical copy for my shelf!

Many thanks to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley!

[Bookaholic__Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore Ree Drummond. She is one of my all time favorite TV chefs. I think she just has an overall great vibe and her food is always delicious!

I love how this book is an evolution of many of her classic tried and true family loved and approved dishes! I've made a few of these very same recipes in the past and I know I'll be making those and many more into future dinners in my home .

I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Cynthia Netherton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a colorful cookbook! As per usual with Ree Drummond cookbooks, each recipe has step-by-step photos. And there are plenty of family photos sprinkled throughout the cookbook. The "Essential" is correct as the recipes contained here are family favorites in all catagories: chili, roasts, pankcakes, condiments, desserts, etc. The recipes call for ingredients most average cooks have on hand. There are a few items I don't usually keep in stock, but they aren't hard to find or too expensive. The recipes are well written and the instructions are clear. I did find a time or two while reading through the cookbook that additional ingedients are listed in the instructions - which weren't listed in the recipe itself. So be sure to read through the recipe once before starting.

This is one fabulous cookbook with delicious recipes anyone can prepare. But it fell just short of 5 stars. The recipes didn't have nutritional information with them and a good portion of the recipes serve 8 - 10 people. WOW! I know Ree Drummond cooks for a big family, but with my family of two I would have to reduce the recipes in half. I really don't feel like doing math before I start cooking.

I wouldn't complain if someone gifted me this cookbook, but not one I'll purchase myself.

Happy Cooking!

[Elaine · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of The Pioneer Woman Cooks - The Essential Recipes.

I've been watching Ree Drummond on The Food Network on and off for years.

I like her but am not a fan of her cooking.

At the same time I respect her straightforward recipes.

They're not fancy schmany or bougie or pretending to be something they're not.

They're homey and simple, just like her cooking.

That's why they're essential recipes; they're classic, popular, and no fuss no muss.

Yes, some recipes are really basic.

Steamed broccoli with cheese sauce, anyone?

I love the photos that accompanied the step by step instructions but most of all, I love the family photos she shares with her readers.

As always, I was excited to see the chapter on desserts but it could have been longer. 😄

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Netgalley ARC- Watching the Pioneer Woman was my dirty little secret. It always made me feel like I was in her house and a member of her family. Plus the food, while simple and non-fussy looks so damn delicious. This is a collection of the greatest hits. I felt like I came home to the farm and got to eat my mom's cooking again (except in real life my mom only had one good recipe). The photos are a nice companion to the easy-to-read and follow recipes. Each is written just like her show, conversational and well-worn, tome honored. No complaints here, this is a keeper.

[Alice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable if tou like The Pioneer Woman, which I do- i wish there would be a few more out of comfort zone recipes but I get it it have tried a few and they were good will definitely buy for Christmas gifts for my family who enjoys her recipes and books

Thank you net galley for the arc in exchange for an honest review

[Delynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have read and liked any of Ree Drummond's cookbooks before, then you will enjoy this one. She gives some of the same recipes from other cookbooks but these are new and improved. She includes photos of the step by step process for each recipe which is why I like her cookbooks so much. She also gives reasons why she chose each recipe for the book with stories of her family. Another great, yummy cookbook.

[what.jill.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Pioneer Woman! I always get compliments when I use her recipes. I have several of her cookbooks, but I think this might be her best yet. I love her step by step instructions that include pictures. Gorgeous cookbook that would make a wonderful Christmas gift!

[Mai H.]

📱 Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow Cookbooks

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of her best recipes throughout the years and some more. Excellent cookbook covering delicious, homemade recipes. I believe this is her best cookbook yet.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got a quarter of the way through and sent it back to the library. I need to own this one, so I've asked someone to buy it for me for Christmas.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great collection of greatest hits, but I was a little disappointed that there are very few genuinely new recipes included. Still handy to have all of these in one place though.

[Tariq Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for the eARC

I can hear her voice as I’m reading. The pictures are gorgeous and delicious. I love seeing updates on her family and the lives we have come to love over the years. Her witty humor comes through her words, it was like watching her tv show. The recipes are simple and easy to follow and nicely laid out. I can’t wait to get a copy of this in my hands.

The only thing I had an issue with is the way in which the pages were laid out but I suspect this was an early layout so the final production would be different.

[Jennifer T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been a Pioneer Woman fan since a coworker brought her apple dumplings to work around 2008. I have many of her cookbooks, dinner ware sets, kitchen items, etc. so needless to say I was thrilled to be approved for her newest cookbook on NetGalley. If you’re looking for a great gift for someone moving out for the first time, a housewarming gift, someone wanting to learn how to cook, then this is the cookbook to give them. Every recipe has clear instructions and photos of every step. And most importantly when cooking a Pioneer Woman recipe, you know the end result will be fabulously delicious and the whole family will love it.

Now while this is an excellent collection of recipes, if you’re a longtime fan like me you already have many of them so that’s why I’m giving this 4 stars and not 5. Plus I think it’s missing 3 of her best recipes in my opinion: perfect iced coffee, sigrid’s carrot cake, and the aforementioned apple dumpling recipe.

The cinnamon roll recipe? Really is the best cinnamon roll I’ve ever eaten.

**Thanks to the author and the publisher for the e-arc I received via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.**

[Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are cookbooks, and then there’s The Pioneer Woman Cooks—The Essential Recipes. This isn’t just a collection of recipes. This is a curated exhibit of emotional support food with a side of ranch gossip and about 47,000 process photos. Ree Drummond really said, “You want comfort food? I’ll give you comfort food, plus photos of every blessed step, plus a mini family memoir, plus a pitcher of margaritas, you sad little biscuit. Let’s go.”

From page one, she hits us with origin story realness. Blogging at 4 a.m. about cow manure and toddlers? Icon behavior. That intro reads like a Nora Ephron monologue if Nora had four kids, 120 cattle, and a spiral-bound notebook full of perfected beef stews. Ree reflects on the chaos of raising babies and beef simultaneously, then pivots like a pro into the emotional gut-punch. The recipes she still makes. The ones her now-grown kids beg for when they come home. The ones that define birthdays, snow days, and “I just need to feel something” Tuesdays. This isn’t just food. It’s edible therapy.

And the table of contents? Banger after banger after banger. We’ve got "Blender Hollandaise Sauce," "The Grilled Cheese Sandwich of Your Dreams," "Crispy Oven-Roasted Potatoes," "Perfectly Puckery Lemon Bars," "Chuck’s Sloppy Joes," and "Pitcher of Margaritas." What is this lineup? A brunch menu curated by a carb-loving angel? Yes.

Let me scream briefly about the Pizza Section. "The Best Pizza Dough in the World!" Okay, Ree, let’s calm down, but also, she’s not wrong. "I'm a Fun-gi Mushroom Pizza" might be the dumbest pun I've ever seen, and I devoured it like an unhinged raccoon. And you bet your ass there's a recipe for candied jalapeños in there, because Ree said, “Let’s add emotional spice to your food-induced spiral.”

Then we slam face-first into "The Creamiest, Dreamiest Mashed Potatoes" and I honestly blacked out for a minute. This cookbook doesn’t just walk you through the steps. It babysits you. Like, it sits you down, tucks a napkin into your shirt, and whispers, “You can’t mess this up, sweetie, I’ve included fourteen photos of boiling water.” It’s a little excessive, sure, but if you’ve ever had a panic attack over gravy consistency, this book is your weighted blanket.

She also includes "Homemade Mayonnaise," and I need you to understand. If you’re casually making mayo from scratch on a Tuesday, that’s not cooking. That’s a power move. That’s sending a message. That’s “I’ve watched people cry on Chopped and I liked it.”

The Beef section reads like a love letter to your inner Midwestern grandma. "The Most Perfect Pot Roast," "Meatloaf, Mastered," "French Dip," "Short Rib Beef Stew." You could throw a dart at this list and hit a dish that’ll emotionally seduce anyone within smell radius. And I swear, "Marlboro Man Sandwich" sounds like something you’d eat in a dive bar right before falling in love with a mysterious stranger in flannel.

And let’s talk Desserts and Drinks. Not only do you get "Chocolate Sheet Cake," "My Pecan Pie," "Chuck’s Heavenly Fudge," and "Crazy-Good Chocolate Chip Cookies," but she closes with "Pitcher of Margaritas." She ends the cookbook with a drink. That’s how you know she’s a seasoned professional. She feeds you from brunch to breakdown.

Also did I almost cry at the picture of her holding her grandbaby in a floral dreamscape looking like a woman who’s conquered four kids, a cattle empire, and an entire publishing industry armed with butter and soft lighting? I'll never tell. But I did bow down.

Is it a little much at times? Sure. The photo-to-instruction ratio sometimes feels like Ree thinks we’ve never seen an egg before. Like, I don’t need four pictures of how to scoop mayonnaise into a bowl, but do I love that it’s there just in case I have a culinary panic spiral mid-recipe? Also yes.

But here’s the truth. This book is a damn treasure chest. It’s approachable, nostalgic, unapologetically buttery, and deeply personal. Ree said, “These are the recipes my family keeps coming home for,” and you feel that. In your bones. In your arteries. In the third serving of "Million-Dollar Spaghetti."

4.5 stars, with a half-point deduction for excessive hand-holding, but honestly? I’m still gonna make every single thing in here while crying over photos and whispering, “Ree gets me.”

Huge thanks to William Morrow and NetGalley for the ARC. Y’all knew I was going to get emotionally compromised over mashed potatoes and still handed me this book like, “Good luck, champ.” Rude. And correct.

[Firetruckmama · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a temporary eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.

“The Pioneer Woman Cooks - The Essential Recipes” is by Res Drummond. This is her ninth cookbook and, honestly, the title says it all. If you’ve been following Ms. Drummond via her blog - or her cooking show or magazine - you know what to expect from her cooking - solid “stick to your ribs” (as my Dad would’ve said) food. It’s mostly American fare - so if that’s food you like, this cookbook is full of tasty, filling, and rather good food. Many of these recipes have been in her previous cookbooks, a number of which I already own, or can be found on her blog. While I do find having her recipes in one handy book (opposed to searching online and printing them again and again because I always lose the printouts), I can understand why some people don’t like that - but that’s a digression. A quick note - I haven’t been to Ms. Drummond’s site for about five years, so I don’t know if the new-to-me recipes have been posted on her blog previously. What I liked about this book - there are some new to me recipes. If you’ve always wanted to make your own “basics” such as mayo, cream of chicken soup, stocks - she’s got them in this book. There are also some recipes from her Mercantile restaurant that sound rather interesting. I actually hauled out Ms. Drummond’s first cookbook and compared some of her classics to this book. There are differences - more salt, some cream, maybe buttermilk instead of milk, some recipe direction rearrangement - so if you already make her classic cinnamon rolls (which I still need to make one day), you have slightly different directions - and, obviously, new step-by-step photos. While I know that Ms. Drummond lives on a working ranch, she does comment a bit about how she and her husband are now empty nesters … but some of the recipes make 10-12 (or even 18-22) servings. Either they are feeding their ranch hands a lot (maybe!) or they’ve got a lot of leftovers in their fridge. Yes, one can divide the recipes into smaller amounts, but I found the “just us two” followed by large sized meals to be a bit odd. The other thing is that Ms. Drummond “made” step-by-step photos her thing thanks to her blog. For beginner cooks, I can see how the individual photos are helpful - but three photos showing diced onions, carrots, and celery is really a lot of real estate in a book, especially when one does know what dicing looks like. Something I would’ve really liked was a QR code “to see this live” or a video - maybe for some of the basics (dicing or some of the “basics” recipes mentioned above). It takes up less real estate in the book and might remove a row of photos, making more room for additional recipes. If you like the format of Ms. Drummond’s previous cookbooks - there are photos of the ranch and her family with her humor sprinkled between the covers. I would say, overall, that if you have Ms. Drummond’s other cookbooks, give this one a look through before purchasing it - but if you want a collection of some of her classics in one place, this might be a cookbook for you to purchase. I think the online price is a fair one. I do wish that my eARC copy was a permanent one, not a temporary one - as I’ll have to write down a few of the recipes.

[Danielle Bricker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was skeptical when I saw that the new Pioneer Woman cookbook was a 'greatest hits' style collection... it honestly seemed like a money grab for the impending holiday season. Let's just throw out an easy sell instead of coming up with something new.

Ree's introduction brought me around to a more open-minded view -- with decades of experience and now restaurant ownership under her belt, it was time to punch up some of her most loved classics.

What fully won me over was testing a few recipes over a glorious stretch of staycation time. It's been a hot minute since I was so excited and proud of what was coming out of my kitchen!

My first must-try was the blueberry scones, one of her restaurant recipes that uses a novel pseudo-lamination method. These are definitely the best scones I've ever made and might even be the best anything I've ever made. They're amazing.

I've also now finally been indoctrinated into the bread baker's camp. My first sandwich loaf was super easy and came out perfectly thanks to this recipe!

Other successful trials included a big pot of homestyle chicken and noodles (updated to make the noodles from scratch instead of leaning on a specific freezer brand), an egg salad (using a new-ish process for hard boiled eggs that practically peel themselves), and a nice full pan of lasagna (so good my husband did the dishes without being asked).

The only thing I've tried that didn't work out was her homemade mayonnaise. I was intrigued by the seemingly simple immersion blender process, but maybe it really does have to be in a very specific size jar because it did not come together for me at all.

Over the next week or so I'll also try out breakfast burritos, chili and cornbread, white chicken enchiladas, and peanut butter cookies. I had intended to give the pizza chapter a pass since pizza dough and I have not gotten along recently, but after so much baking success, I think this will be the process that works for me. And with a few classic pies and a chapter of very simple side dishes, I feel well poised for Thanksgiving this year.

If you already have a Pioneer Woman cookbook or two on your shelf, you probably don't need to make a beeline for this one. But if you're considering your first, Essential Recipes would be a fantastic place to start and I would definitely recommend it over her very early cookbooks.

Thank you to the publisher William Morrow Cookbooks for my advance review copy, provided in exchange for an honest review. This book publishes today! October 28, 2025

[Susan Hamann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of beautiful photos, not only of the recipes, but of Ree’s family and farm. There are 120 recipes, but the book is about 400 pages long, with all the gorgeous and helpful photos.

The chapters are:
Breakfasty Food
Lunchy Food
Pizza
Casseroles
Beef
Chicken
Pork
Seafood
Potatoes & Sides
Desserts & Drinks

Yummy recipes for breakfast standards and some specialties, like Berry Butter. I especially like the photo of each step. Do you want some guidance on what pancake batter should look like? Recipes may tell you that the batter should be somewhat lumpy, buy just how lumpy? Look at the photo. If you’re having a crowd for breakfast, you may want to consider making Breakfast Burritos – the recipe makes 18-20 delicious burritos. Do you think cinnamon rolls or scones are too difficult to attempt? Step by step photos take the mystery and fear away.

Lunch and Pizza chapters are full of delightful, easy, but impressive meals that you’d be happy to be served at a restaurant. But you can make them at home! There are lots of recipes to make the basic ingredients that you might otherwise have bought from the grocery store, like pesto, pizza sauce, marinara sauce, chicken stock – and so many more.

Each chapter has recipes for food that you already love. This book is chock full of good old American Stick-to-your Ribs meals. If that’s your thing – and I think it is for so many of us, this book is a great resource. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner cook or you’ve been in the kitchen for years, this book has recipes that you’ll want to try. No weird ingredients, or words you can't pronounce.

[Haley · Rating 5 out of 5]

It says it in the title y'all: these are the ESSENTIAL recipes. Think the basics. Think about how you've been trying to master your spaghetti recipe for the past 10 years but something is till missing. That is what this cookbook addresses. Ree Drummond acknowledges how some of her go-to recipes over the years have evolved just as her own life as evolved. You're not going to stumble upon some new inventive recipe, but you are going to finally perfect your meatloaf recipe.

Other than perfecting your go-to meals Ree also walks you through how to make some basic ingredients. I for one agree with her opinions about it being best to make your own 'Buttermilk' seeing as very few of us ever need the whole half gallon. She does acknowledge that she realizes that this is not for everyone, but hey if you have the time one day and the ingredients I say go for it. I for one am wanting to try her 'Sandwich Bread' recipe because my last attempt on my own was lackluster in flavor. But I quickly turned that bland loaf into Ree's 'Crispy-Chewy Croutons'. Overall most of these homemade ingredients are simple recipes that I think any cook can accomplish. The most complicated we get is making your own 'Beef Stock' and that's really only because you have to finally talk to a butcher to get some beef bones.

If I can make one recommendation for where to start try Ree's tomato soup. I cooked it myself and was thoroughly impressed with the 'Sherried Tomato Soup'. This recipe was delicious and cheap to make! As we enter into soup season this one is being moved to the top of the list. Please try it for yourself!!!

Thank you NetGalley for the free eARC.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The minute I received cookbook, I eagerly leafed through each delicious sounding recipe. While countless recipes are available online, there’s something special about having the physical book in hand – flipping through the pages drawing inspiration from the photographs. But I must admit, this ebook was just as user-friendly and visually appealing, and I wouldn’t hesitate to go this route too!
This cookbook feels like a heartfelt tribute to the simple comfort foods that define everyday family dinners. Ree has included the beloved meals that I grew up with, adding her own simple twists that elevate each one. Favorites like Tomato Soup, Spaghetti, Meatloaf, Beef Stew, Roasted Chicken, Homemade Chicken Nuggets (with her own special hack that I can’t wait to try!) invoke such warm memories! Additionally, the book offers surprisingly easy homemade recipes for staples like Mayonnaise, Buttermilk, Ranch, Egg Salad, Marinara – who knew how simple it is to prepare these at home! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been unable to make a recipe because I didn’t have Buttermilk on hand, not realizing I could whip some up in an hour!
Ree’s personal touch shines through with stories behind each recipe, sharing glimpses of her family life that anyone will enjoy whether or not they’re familiar with her show. This cookbook is a heartwarming celebration of food, family and the joy of home cooking.
Available October 28, 2025 this would make a fabulous gift for cooks, new and experienced alike.

[Sheila The Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ree Drummond’s The Pioneer Woman Cooks: The Essential Recipes brings together 120 of her most beloved dishes, reworked and perfected for today’s home cook. With step-by-step photos, tips, and can’t-miss classics from comfort food favorites to sweet treats, this cookbook is designed to be a trusted go-to for every kitchen.

I’ve been a fan of Ree since her early blogging days, when she first stood out by blending recipes with her authentic voice and signature humor. All these years later, this cookbook proves she’s still giving her fans exactly what they love: approachable, delicious recipes wrapped in her warmth and personality. I immediately tested two recipes—her cinnamon rolls and crispy oven-roasted potatoes—and both turned out beautifully. The instructions were clear, the flavors were spot-on, and the photos along the way made it feel like Ree was right in my kitchen cheering me on.

I also loved the personal touches sprinkled throughout, especially the glimpses of her growing family and sweet grandbaby, which made the book feel even more special. If Ree is cooking it, I want to try it, because her recipes never disappoint. This collection feels like both a love letter to her fans and a recipe bible that will be treasured for years to come.

Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the gift of this cookbook in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Lauren Chase · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good cookbook from Ree Drummond! Whenever I want a sure-fire, go to recipe for classics like meatloaf, mac & cheese, fried chicken or pot roast Pioneer Woman has got my back. In this cookbook she has collected her most requested, most used, most loved recipes. I have definitely used some of these from her blog and other cookbooks and its nice to have them gathered together in one place.

I really appreciate Ree's brand consistency, even as her recognition/fame and family have grown and evolved. She always comes off as relatable, kind, and a little silly which I appreciate. Her recipes are never intimidating or full of gourmet or expensive ingredients so they feel super accessible, even for a new cook. I especially like that all of her cookbooks include photos along with the written instructions for each step of the cooking process. It definitely makes cooking feel less intimidating. Besides I always say a cookbook needs good, color pictures of food so I know what I'm making! 😅

This cookbook will definitely be a nice edition to my Pioneer Woman cookbook collection. Would recommend to new home cooks and anyone already familiar with Pioneer Woman.

Digital ARC from NetGalley

[Tam Sesto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loaded with recipes and stunning pictures as well as family pics and tidbits.

I like to make a recipe from the cookbook I’m reviewing so from this cookbook I went with I’m a Fun-gi Mushroom Pizza. The instructions and pictures were clear and easy to understand. The flavor was phenomenal, but then again, I love mushrooms. In all honesty, I fell in love with this cookbook just from learning there was a pizza section :)

The book is divided into the following sections for recipes and I’ve listed a sample of one of the recipes.
Breakfast Food - Cowboy Breakfast Burritos
Lunchy Food - Chicken Salad
Pizza - Pizza Ree A
Casseroles - White Chicken Enchiladas
Beef - Prime Rib au Jus
Chicken - Chicken Nuggets
Pork - Fried Pork Chops
Seafood - Lobster Mac and Cheese
Potatoes and Sides - Whiskey Glazed Carrots
Desserts and Drinks - I Love This Apple Pie

Each recipe has a brief history about the recipe, servings, ingredients, instructions with pictures for every step of the recipe. I found that helpful and was very excited by the fact that she did that. This book is a necessity for any Pioneer Woman fan.

My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.

[Brady Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishing team for the opportunity to read and review this title a bit early.

This is exactly the cookbook that all home cooks need. When you are trying to put real food on the table to please a variety of tastes and preferences, this cookbook is what you need!

I am a lonnngggg time fan of Pioneer Woman- like followed her back in the day of “just” having a blog. I sat down and watched the first episode of her food network show premier on my birthday. This cookbook is so reminiscent of those times!

These are the recipes everyone needs. Practical, fun, and delicious!

As with all of her cookbooks, Ree Drummond and the team did a phenomenal job breaking down each recipe into actionable steps, complete with photos for each step along the way.

And just like her others, this cookbook reads like a novel. It is so fun to see real life pictures of the whole Drummond crew, animals included.

I will definitely be recommending this one to my friends and followers. This is the perfect cookbook for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike.

[Meeoak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, ya'll. Ree Drummond's new cookbook is T.Swift Eras Tour level EPIC. As someone who has been following Ree since her early blogging days, I was delighted to have an opportunity to review an advanced copy. This is the best one yet, and I can't wait to see it on the shelves on October 28. Consistent with her other cookbooks, this one has beautiful pictures of every recipe, easy to follow instructions, and accessible ingredients for every home cook. One thing that shined throughout is Ree's love for her family, which now includes extended family members (sons in law and grand babies). All of my favorites and go-to Pioneer Woman recipes were included - biscuits, chicken salad, lasagna, and perfect pot roast. There is also an entire chapter dedicated to my favorite - PIZZA. YUM!! Go ahead and pre-order copies for yourself and everyone on your holiday shopping list. Thank you to #NetGalley and William Morrow for the opportunity to review an ARC. All views expressed are my own.

[Emily Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though I received a digital ARC of this title, I have placed a pre-order for a physical hardcopy for my personal library. This is outstanding, and I simply must have a copy in both digital and physical form. Here's the situation: I'm not a good cook. My parents didn't cook, and I've been working to teach myself. This is the kind of cookbook that both a newbie and a professional can appreciate. For the newbie like me there are pictures of each step so that I can follow along. A professional will likely want to know what recipes make the Pioneer Woman so famous. Which are her best? These ones, apparently. Like most cookbooks, it is organized by meal of the day and each recipe has both a picture of the finished dish and a picture of each cooking step (especially helpful for things like pancakes to answer my questions like "How brown should they be when I flip?") I'm excited to start cooking!

[Doreen Prentiss Gabriellini · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Pioneer Woman Cooks: The Essential Recipes by Ree Drummond is a compilation of her most loved recipes. I believe that this book was not only made for her fans but also to attract a new cooks to her fold. The book has one hundred and twenty recipes that she has perfected over time. These are her most tried and true, go to recipes which she guarantees excellent results.
The ingredients in most of these recipes are common for any cook. There are step by step photos that make everything simple to do and easy to follow. This book also has many stories about her family and life on their ranch. This particular book is like a rerun of some of her other books. I guess the advantage would be that most of the favorites are together in one volume. As with all her dishes, they are the epitome of comfort food with no health conscious or adventurous recipes in sight.
For those fans of The Pioneer Woman this will be a welcome addition to their already existing library.

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Pioneer Woman Cooks – The Essential Recipes is a wonderful collection of 120 recipes that are practical, delicious, and not complicated, making it applicable to home chefs of all levels of expertise. Ree Drummond brings her warm, no-nonsense approach to this collection. Despite publishing multiple cookbooks and sharing thousands of recipes over the years, these are her guaranteed, go-to recipes she is prone to make in her own home. That, to me, means tried, true, and trusted. I LOVE the pictures of the final product, and an added bonus are the images of the step-by-step directions. You can find something for everyone that pulls from breakfast, lunch, pizza, casseroles, beef, chicken, pork, seafood, potatoes and sides, and desserts and drinks. If you wanted one cookbook from The Pioneer Woman, this is the one to have.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own.