If I'm just making myself dinner I mostly go with what I know, I don't measure a thing and mix and match the flavors I like. It turns out pretty well.
If it's about baking then yes: I follow the recipe and only alter it if it suits the recipe and my ingredients better. Croissants for example need butter to turn out the way they do. My usual recipe calls for a set amount, but I decrease the amount if I have the butter I prefer using instead of the cheap margarine I buy.
As for cooking: Only when in the mood to try new foods, having the time, money and energy to try out a recipe.
My budget it fairly limited so I rarely try new things when I have things that work and I know how to make cheap, filling and healthier batch foods like stews, soups turned stews, gratins etc. My priority is not living on instant noodles the last week before next payday, it's having cheap and balanced meals as often as possible.