21 Cooking Fails for Optimistic Home Chefs Learning to Trust the Process (June 17th, 2026)

Cata Holmes • Writer

Jun 18, 2026 2:30 PM EDT

Have your cooking ambitions ever been a little bigger than your culinary abilities?

Hey… I'm not making fun of you with that question. If you're not a good cook, don't worry about it. I can totally get that frustration when you're trying something new. You have all the ingredients, and you feel super confident, only to end up with a big mess and food delivery at your door. But, at least you tried! And practice makes the master, so don't hesitate and try again next time. In case this resonates with you, or maybe you just like food in general, then you'll love these cooking fails memes I selected. They are just too accurate and can explain that feeling perfectly.

I'll always admire the people who know how to cook and, with two simple things, can put together a delicious meal in front of you in a matter of minutes. Shout out to them! I promise I won't brag about this, but… my best friend is a chef! Yes, a professional cook who has the most insane talent when it comes to food. Thanks to her, I've not only indulged in delicious dishes, but she has also made me try new recipes from different cultures that blew my mind.

I think I'm are rambling too much, and I totally understand if you didn't read the rest. I know, I know… you're here for the memes. Anyways, scroll down and enjoy some therapeutic memes for when cooking is just not working out.

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via drinkauric
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via 9gag
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via adhd_memetherapy
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via 9gag
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via 9gag
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via 9gag
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via BoredPanda
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via BoredPanda
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via BoredPanda
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via BoredPanda
Every good cook out there has to have one cooking disaster in their memory. A situation so embarrassing for them to admit nowadays, when they are probably doing this for a living. But they can't deny there must be one thing they failed at. I'm sure my friend must have one… although she never told me. I'll ask her and get back to you with the update.
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via memezar
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via queridirthe
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via acousticboiii
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via Aye Billz
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via pkitassss
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via therealdiymistress2
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via recipes_by_ingredients
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via midwestern_ope
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via s.i.s_properties
I hope you are more motivated to try cooking again after these memes. Remember: you're not alone in this. Cooking can seem easy and fun, but sometimes it's complicated. So, gather all your stuff again and go to the kitchen for your second try. I'm sure you'll do better this time.