If you're just starting out, I'd suggest getting a crockpot as the recipes tend to be on the simpler side. Many are just opening cans, cutting/chopping things up and putting it into the crockpot for x number of hours on low or high. I've done chili, ribs, paella, chicken wings, rice and lentils, sausages in a sauer kraut/beer reduction, and chicken breasts with a salsa/cream cheese sauce with corn and black beans in mine. Naturally, some of these meals are healthier than others, but all are tasty and easy to make.