Not all cookbooks are created equally. Some inspire generations, and others just confuse, mislead, or horrify. With bizarre recipes no one should attempt, health claims with no science behind them, or just plain terrible taste, these books earned a spot on our shelf of shame.
Maybe the people who made them assumed no one would actually read them, because let’s be honest, cookbooks often live more on coffee tables than in kitchens.
From blenders gone rogue to celebrities playing chef, and from honest mistakes to full-on frauds. This is not about minor kitchen crimes, it’s about culinary catastrophes hidden between pages.
Here are 15 of the worst cookbooks ever published (and yes, someone actually tried making the recipes).
1
The Astronaut's Cookbook
Zero gravity, zero flavor. And astronauts didn't eat any of it.
2
Save Florida, Eat an Iguana: The Iguana Cookbook
A weird regional gimmick.
3
The SPAM Cookbook
There's no limit to what you can do with canned meat (but don't do it).
4
World of Warcraft: The Official Cookbook
This was heavily criticized for odd presentation and full of bizarre fantasy-food.
5
The Pyromaniac’s Cookbook
Loaded with fire-themed recipes that didn't end up working.
6
A Feast of Thorns and Roses
Inspired by fantasy cookbooks in general don't work. But this one was more fan service than food.
7
Diet cookbooks
Heavily criticized for its questionable recipes and tone.
8
Celebrity-themed cookbooks
When stars hit the kitchen, the recipes aren't always going to hit.
9
Overly advanced classics
Like Mastering the Art of French Cooking, criticized for being impractical and having recipes with asbestos.
10
Star Trek Cookbook
Another fantasy one, full of impractical recipes and a weird cover.
11
The Joy Of Microwaving
Turning culinary ambition into reheated reality.
12
Overly nostalgic vintage editions
This Betty Crooker book had gelatin tuna salad and other atrocious recipes for modern readers.
13
Ten Talents
Criticized by dietitians for offering poor nutritional advice.
14
BlendTech Lifestyles Recipe Book
Blend it and regret it.
15
The Whole Pantry
Health advice by someone who faked having cancer.