Instagram Reels continue to be a powerful tool for content creators, allowing you to reach a broad audience and showcase your culinary skills. In this article, we will explore the 100 best cooking reel ideas and provide you with tips on how to optimize your content for maximum engagement.

Which Recipes Get the Most Views on Instagram Reels?

When choosing recipes for your Instagram reels, it’s essential to focus on trending topics and popular interests. Here are some recipe categories that consistently attract high viewership:

• Quick and Easy Meals: Recipes like 15-minute dinners or 5-ingredient dishes are popular because they make cooking accessible and simple.
• Comfort Food Classics: Dishes such as mac and cheese, fried chicken, and brownies evoke nostalgia and comfort, making them viewer favorites.
• Healthy Recipe Alternatives: As more people become health-conscious, low-carb, vegan, and gluten-free recipes are in high demand.
• Unique Twists on Traditional Dishes: Adding a creative spin to classic recipes, like sushi tacos or ramen burgers, can draw attention.
• Global Cuisine Recipes: Showcasing exotic dishes from around the world appeals to audiences interested in diverse culinary experiences.

How to find trending and popular recipes for Instagram?

Finding trending recipes for Instagram involves a combination of research, staying updated with food trends, and understanding what resonates with your audience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you discover trending recipes:

1. Follow Food Influencers and Chefs

• Track Popular Accounts: Follow top food influencers, chefs, and food bloggers on Instagram. They often share or create content around trending recipes.
• Engage with Their Content: Pay attention to which posts receive the most engagement (likes, comments, shares) as these can indicate trending recipes.

2. Use Instagram’s Explore Page

• Explore Tab: Regularly check Instagram’s Explore page, which curates content based on what’s currently popular across the platform.
• Search Hashtags: Look for popular food-related hashtags like #foodie, #foodstagram, #recipeoftheday, or specific ones like #veganrecipes, #ketorecipes to see what’s trending.

3. Monitor Hashtags and Keywords

• Trending Hashtags: Use tools like RiteTag or Hashtagify to find trending hashtags related to recipes.
• Search Specific Keywords: Use Instagram’s search function to look up specific food terms and see which posts are getting the most traction.

4. Check TikTok for Cross-Platform Trends

• Viral TikTok Recipes: Many food trends start on TikTok and make their way to Instagram. Search TikTok for viral recipes, and then bring those ideas to your Instagram content.
• Use TikTok Hashtags: Look up food-related hashtags on TikTok like #TikTokFood, #FoodHack, or #Recipe and apply them to your Instagram strategy.

5. Use Recipe Trend Tools

• Pinterest Trends: Pinterest is a goldmine for trending recipes. Their Trends tool lets you see what recipes are popular at the moment.
• Google Trends: Use Google Trends to see which recipes are gaining popularity in search queries. It can give you insights into what people are currently interested in.

6. Keep Up with Seasonal and Holiday Trends

• Seasonal Recipes: Stay ahead by planning content around upcoming seasons (like pumpkin recipes in fall) or holidays (like Christmas cookies or Valentine’s desserts).
• Holiday-Specific Dishes: Search for trending recipes linked to specific holidays, as these often become very popular on Instagram.

7. Analyze Your Content

• Review Past Performance: Look at your own Instagram insights to identify which types of recipes have performed well in the past.
• Audience Feedback: Pay attention to comments and DMs for direct feedback from your followers on what recipes they want to see.

8. Follow Food Publications and Blogs

• Stay Updated: Follow major food publications like Bon Appétit, Delish, or Food Network. They often feature trending recipes and new food trends.
• Subscribe to Newsletters: Get newsletters from food blogs that regularly share trending recipes.

9. Participate in Food Challenges

• Trending Challenges: Join in on food-related challenges that are trending on Instagram or TikTok, as these can drive a lot of engagement and help you tap into popular recipes.
• Create Your Challenge: If you see a trend, create your version of it and encourage your followers to participate, making it more likely to trend.

10. Utilize Instagram Analytics Tools

• Third-Party Tools: Use analytics tools like Later, Iconosquare, or Hootsuite to track engagement on specific posts and hashtags, helping you identify which recipes are trending.

By combining these strategies, you can effectively find and create content around trending recipes on Instagram, keeping your feed fresh and engaging for your audience.

Best Cooking Reel Ideas for Instagram in 2024

Breakfast Ideas

1. 15-Minute Weeknight Dinners
2. Quick Breakfast Burritos
3. Lazy Sunday Brunch Ideas
4. Overnight Oats with a Twist
5. Fluffy Pancakes with Creative Fillings
6. Savory Breakfast Bowls
7. Breakfast Tacos
8. Stuffed French Toast
9. Creative Pancake Art
10. Quick and Easy Frittatas
11. Mini Quiches
12. Smoothie Bowl Creations
13. Protein-Packed Smoothies
14. Matcha-Inspired Desserts
15. Wholesome Grain Bowls

Main Course Ideas

1. One-Pot Pasta Recipes
2. 5-Ingredient Meals
3. Vegan Mac and Cheese
4. Low-Carb Pizza Crusts
5. Sheet Pan Dinners
6. Air Fryer Snack Ideas
7. Instant Pot Dinner Hacks
8. Plant-Based Protein Recipes
9. Global Street Food Inspirations
10. Homemade Ramen
11. Sushi Tacos
12. Zoodle (Zucchini Noodle) Recipes
13. Spiralized Veggie Noodles
14. Deconstructed Sushi Bowls
15. Comfort Food Classics with a Twist
16. Savory Crepes
17. Sushi Cones
18. Sourdough Pizza
19. Stuffed Bell Peppers
20. Vegetarian Tacos
21. Gourmet Grilled Cheese Variations
22. Fancy Toast Toppings
23. Street-Style Tacos
24. Simple Stir-Fries
25. Gourmet Burger Creations
26. Grilled Sandwiches
27. Nut-Free Snack Ideas
28. Vegan Mac and Cheese
29. Tacos with Creative Fillings

Appetizers and Snacks

1. Creative Salad Jars
2. Quick Pickling Vegetables
3. Air Fryer Snack Ideas
4. Flavored Hummus Variations
5. DIY Flavored Popcorn
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
7. Infused Water Recipes
8. Sushi Rolls
9. Exotic Fruit Salads
10. Elegant Cheese Boards
11. Miniature Versions of Classic Dishes
12. Homemade Nut Butter
13. Rainbow Smoothies
14. Nut-Free Snack Ideas
15. Stuffed Avocados
16. Spicy Hot Sauce Creations
17. Bento Box Lunch Ideas
18. Savory Hand Pies
19. Elegant Crostini Ideas
20. Decadent Milkshakes

Desserts

1. No-Bake Desserts
2. Vegan Desserts
3. Decadent Chocolate Lava Cakes
4. Chocolaty Indulgent Desserts
5. Ice Cream Sandwiches
6. Baked Doughnuts
7. Frozen Yogurt Bark
8. Sweet and Savory Scones
9. DIY Coffee Syrups
10. Decadent Milkshakes
11. Chocolate-Covered Treats
12. Mug Cakes in Minutes
13. Easy Homemade Pasta
14. Sourdough Bread Baking
15. One-Bowl Brownies
16. Superfood-Packed Energy Balls
17. Quick and Easy Frittatas
18. Elegant Crostini Ideas
19. Nut-Free Snack Ideas
20. Creative Pancake Art
21. Fluffy Pancakes with Creative Fillings
22. Healthy Smoothie Bowl Creations
23. Creative Salad Jars
24. Savory Breakfast Bowls
25. Protein-Packed Smoothies
26. Wholesome Grain Bowls
27. Deconstructed Sushi Bowls
28. Sushi Rolls
29. Sushi Tacos
30. Zoodle (Zucchini Noodle) Recipes

Baking and Bread

1. Gluten-Free Baking
2. Homemade Bagels
3. Artisan Grilled Pizzas
4. Sourdough Bread Baking
5. One-Bowl Brownies
6. Fluffy Pancakes with Creative Fillings
7. Baked Doughnuts
8. Chocolate-Covered Treats
9. Savory Crepes
10. Sourdough Pizza
11. Sweet and Savory Scones
12. Frozen Yogurt Bark
13. DIY Coffee Syrups
14. Decadent Milkshakes
15. Quick and Easy Frittatas
16. Nut-Free Snack Ideas
17. Savory Breakfast Bowls

Drinks and Smoothies

1. Protein-Packed Smoothies
2. Tropical Smoothie Recipes
3. Rainbow Smoothies
4. Infused Water Recipes
5. DIY Coffee Syrups
6. Gourmet Hot Chocolate
7. Decadent Milkshakes
8. Healthy Smoothie Bowl Creations

Sides and Condiments

1. Garlic Bread Variations
2. Quick Pickling Vegetables
3. Creative Salad Jars
4. Flavored Hummus Variations
5. Homemade Nut Butter
6. DIY Salad Dressings
7. Superfood-Packed Energy Balls
8. Infused Water Recipes
9. Sushi Rolls
10. Elegant Cheese Boards
11. Sushi Tacos
12. Zoodle (Zucchini Noodle) Recipes
13. Spiralized Veggie Noodles
14. Creative Salad Jars
15. Sushi Cones
16. Stuffed Avocados
17. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
18. Rainbow Smoothies
19. Nut-Free Snack Ideas

How Long Should an Ideal Instagram Reel Be?

The best length for an Instagram reel is between 15 to 30 seconds. This timeframe is long enough to capture attention and deliver your message without losing viewer interest. Aim to make your reel engaging from the first second to the last.

How to Leverage the Instagram Algorithm for Reels

Understanding how the Instagram algorithm works can significantly boost your reel’s reach:

• Focus on Engagement: High engagement through likes, comments, shares, and saves increases your reel’s chances of being promoted by the algorithm.
• Maximize Watch Time: Reels that are watched from start to finish, or multiple times, signal high engagement to Instagram.
• Use Trending Sounds and Hashtags: Incorporating popular sounds and relevant hashtags can help your reel reach a larger audience.
• Consistency is Key: Regularly posting reels improves your chances of being favored by the algorithm.

Best Camera Settings and Angles for Instagram Reels

High video quality is crucial for successful reels, but you don’t need expensive equipment. Here are some tips for better video production:

• Utilize Natural Lighting: Natural light enhances the appearance of your food, making it more appealing to viewers.
• Optimize Camera Angles: Overhead shots are great for ingredient displays, while close-ups are perfect for capturing texture and detail.
• Stabilize Your Camera: Use a tripod or stabilizer to avoid shaky footage, ensuring your reel looks professional.

Do You Need an Expensive Camera for Instagram Reels?

No, you don’t need an expensive camera to create high-quality Instagram Reels. Many successful content creators use their smartphones, which often have advanced camera capabilities that are more than sufficient for creating engaging Reels. Here’s why an expensive camera isn’t necessary:

1. Smartphones Have Advanced Camera Technology

• High-Resolution Cameras: Most modern smartphones come with cameras capable of shooting in high resolution (1080p or 4K), which is more than enough for Instagram Reels.
• Built-In Editing Tools: Smartphones often include built-in editing apps that allow you to quickly edit videos, add filters, and make adjustments before posting.

2. Good Lighting Matters More

• Natural Lighting: Using natural light can significantly improve the quality of your videos, making them look more professional even if filmed on a smartphone.
• Affordable Lighting Kits: If you need additional lighting, affordable ring lights or softboxes can be purchased to enhance your videos without the need for an expensive camera.

3. Steady Shots and Angles

• Tripods and Stabilizers: You can use a tripod or a smartphone stabilizer to keep your shots steady, which helps in achieving a professional look without the need for a high-end camera.
• Creative Angles: Focusing on interesting camera angles and compositions can make your Reels stand out, regardless of the camera you use.

4. Editing Can Make a Huge Difference

• Mobile Editing Apps: Apps like InShot, Adobe Premiere Rush, or CapCut allow you to edit your Reels on your smartphone with advanced features like transitions, effects, and music synchronization.
• Post-Production: Even if your footage is shot on a smartphone, effective editing can enhance the quality and appeal of your content.

5. Focus on Content Quality

• Engaging Content: The content of your Reels—the recipe, the presentation, and the storytelling—matters more than the camera used. If your content is engaging and visually appealing, it will perform well regardless of the equipment.
• Audience Connection: Building a connection with your audience through relatable and authentic content is often more important than the technical quality of the video.

6. Successful Examples

• Popular Creators: Many successful Instagram creators and influencers use their smartphones exclusively for filming. Their success comes from creative ideas, good lighting, and effective storytelling rather than the camera they use.
• Viral Content: Often, Reels that go viral are those with unique or creative content, not necessarily those shot with the most expensive equipment.

How to Start an Instagram Reel to Keep Viewers Hooked

The opening seconds of your reel are crucial for retaining viewer interest. Here’s how to make a strong start:

• Start with a Hook: Begin with an engaging question or a surprising fact, like “Did you know you can make pizza in a mug?”
• Show the Finished Dish First: Capture viewers’ attention with a shot of the completed recipe before showing the steps.
• Use Quick Cuts: Fast-paced editing keeps the reel dynamic and engaging right from the start.

Should You Explain What You’re Doing in Your Reels?

Voiceovers can be useful for explaining steps and offering tips, but they aren’t always necessary. Many successful reels rely on text overlays, subtitles, or clear visual cues to guide viewers. Silent reels with strong visuals and concise text can be just as effective, especially when paired with trending music.

How to Create Successful Instagram Reels Without Speaking

Yes, you can create engaging reels without speaking. Use text, gestures, and visuals to communicate your message, making your content accessible to a broader audience. Since many viewers watch reels without sound, ensure that your content is understandable without audio. Adding text overlays or captions can effectively convey your message.

Bonus Tips for Creating Viral Cooking Reels on Instagram

• Experiment with Trends: Incorporate trending challenges or popular ingredients to keep your content relevant and engaging.
• Engage with Your Audience: Encourage interaction by asking questions in captions or prompting viewers to share their favorite dishes.
• Be Consistent: Regular posting helps you build an audience and increases the likelihood of your content being seen.
• Collaborate with Other Creators: Partnering with influencers or chefs can introduce your content to new audiences.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to create viral cooking reels on Instagram in 2024. Remember to enjoy the process and let your passion for cooking shine through. Happy creating!

Image credit: SHVETS production