This isn't a good answer but I don't have a single spot. I usually think "huh, I'd like to make X" then try and find what I believe to be the most traditional/classic recipe that I can via search engine. From there I'll make it (possibly with a few modifications) and it usually takes a few tries at most to get something that's at least a 7/10. I'm also in the somewhat unique position of being a single dude that's looking tasty food in bulk with good macros which are goals that are sometimes at odds with each other - recipe sites usually don't target all three.
One thing you might try is signing up for a meal kit service using their introductory offers. You can go a month or two doing this while never paying full price via the discounts and it's a good way to try a bunch of different dishes. Save the recipe cards for the stuff you like then contrast them with other internet recipes or ask an LLM for ideas. Once you've done this enough you'll build up an informal database of things you like to make and a framework for how to do it without having to resort to step-by-step instructions.
Thanks for the suggestions! I’m fairly comfortable cooking so this sounds great. I’m also looking to prep meals with good macros, which seem to be pretty hard to find unless it’s something simple like chicken on rice. Some people on instagram have really nice looking high-protein meals, but I’m not sure how well these would prep or if the listed macros or even right. I’ll try out the meal kit service- i never thought of it as a way to just try out a lot of different types of food! Super good idea
One thing you might try is signing up for a meal kit service using their introductory offers. You can go a month or two doing this while never paying full price via the discounts and it's a good way to try a bunch of different dishes. Save the recipe cards for the stuff you like then contrast them with other internet recipes or ask an LLM for ideas. Once you've done this enough you'll build up an informal database of things you like to make and a framework for how to do it without having to resort to step-by-step instructions.