Main Dishes

Main dishes can mean any dish that satisfies as a primary course. Of course, that can apply to any meal of the day, but I have organized all of the “main” courses a few ways. 

How I organize main dishes

Under “main dishes”, there are beef, chicken, pork, fish, and poultry dishes, as well as veggie mains too. But I also have ethnic and regional categories, like Mexican, Italian, Asian, and German. 

Next, main dishes also include types of dishes, like casseroles, soups, and pasta courses. Then there are categories for serving times like breakfast and brunch. The “round-ups” category refers to multi-recipe collections, like top ten recipes or bacon recipes for example. 

Finally, main dishes also feature cooking methods like grilling and smoker recipes, and crock pot recipes. 

Are the entree and main course the same?

The answer to this is yes and no. In America, entree now refers to the main course. It is understood to be the main dish served after appetizers (if any) are served. 

However, in France, the term “entree” refers to a course following hors d'oeuvres ( the appetizer course) that is more like what Americans would typically think of as sides. 

For all practical intents and purposes though, go with entrees to mean the main course. 

Is there an overlap of categories?

Yes. You will find some dishes listed in two categories, chicken piccata, for example, is both under “chicken” and “Italian”, it's hard for them not to overlap some little bit, because I just have a ton of main dishes to choose from!