Say Goodbye to Stress With 13 Recipes That Just Work

Some recipes just work every time, and these 13 are exactly that. They’re simple to prepare, adaptable, and perfect for keeping stress levels low when you need it most. With options for all kinds of meals, you’ll never have to scramble to figure out what to cook. These dishes prove that cooking can be easy without sacrificing flavor or variety.

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce. — Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs. — Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spaghetti Casserole is like comfort in a dish. You get all the familiar pasta goodness with a hint of something special baked into every bite. What’s cool about it is how everything blends together so nicely. No fuss, just simple, home-cooked flavors in every serving. Give it a try next time you crave something warm and easy.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Close-up of a plate of pasta topped with a red tomato-based sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley. — Spicy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Have you ever tried Spicy Lasagna Soup? It’s got all the great elements of lasagna but with a little kick and in soup form. Perfect for when you want something hearty but not too heavy. Plus, it’s a fun twist on a classic that’s sure to keep things interesting at the dinner table. It’s the comfort of lasagna, dialed up a notch.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Baked Rice

A close-up of a bowl of oven-baked fried rice mixed with colorful vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, and scallions, with a spoon resting inside. — Baked Rice. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you need something reliable, Baked Rice fits the bill. It’s not your usual weeknight rice; it has this extra layer of flavor that’s just unbeatable. Each bite feels like home, and it pairs so well with anything. Great for those times when you want something simple yet fulfilling. You might actually look forward to leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

Shrimp Tacos

Close-up of a shrimp taco with avocado, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of sauce in a toasted tortilla. — Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Shrimp Tacos never disappoint and are perfect for shaking up your routine. They offer a nice balance of fresh and filling, with a bit of texture in every taco. And they’re super versatile, whether it’s a weeknight meal or a casual get-together. Perfect for those days when you need something different but not too fancy. Definitely a stress-free dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden. — Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ever wish you could get that restaurant vibe at home? Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara does just that. It captures all the creamy, rich flavors you love, without needing to leave your house. Perfect for that special night in, when you want to treat yourself a bit. Plus, it’s easier on the wallet than dining out. A win-win, really.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is your go-to when you want something hearty. Think of it as all your breakfast favorites baked into one dish. This is a real crowd-pleaser, making those lazy mornings a bit more special. You get that comfort food experience without any extra hassle. Perfect for weekends or any day you want something extra comforting.
Get the Recipe: Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs. — Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a simple yet tasty soup, Leek and Potato Soup is the way to go. It’s got that classic mix of ingredients that just feels like a hug in a bowl. Great for those times when you want something warm and uncomplicated. Plus, it’s a nice break from heavier recipes. Sometimes, less is more, and this soup proves it.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil. — Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Three Cheese Manicotti comes packed with so much to love. Imagine three different cheeses blending perfectly in each bite. It’s rich, comforting, and exactly what a pasta lover needs. Be prepared for it to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s hard to resist going back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing. — Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re missing fast food but want something lighter, Copycat Big Mac Salad is it. All the flavors you love, transformed into a healthier salad option. Gets that craving out of the way without the extra calories. Great for lunch or dinner when you want something quick and satisfying. You won’t miss the drive-thru as much.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Breakfast Burritos

Close-up of a burrito cut in half, showing fillings of scrambled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, and herbs wrapped in a tortilla. — Breakfast Burritos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Breakfast Burritos are the champions of morning meals. They’re packed with everything you need to start your day right. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re great on the go or at home. Ideal for those busy mornings when you need something filling and quick. These might become a morning staple.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Burritos

Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese. — Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes, you just want that wow factor, and Million Dollar Casserole delivers. It’s rich, creamy, and feels like luxury on a plate. Great for special occasions or just when you need a little pick-me-up. Each bite is packed with comfort and flavor, making it hard to resist. It’s worth every bit of effort you put in.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes. — Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For something classic and comforting, Beef Bourguignon is a go-to. It’s a hearty dish that uses simple ingredients to make a rich, soulful meal. Perfect for those days where you just want to unwind with something wholesome. The flavors meld together over time, making each bite better than the last. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Sushi Bake

Sushi Bake is a modern twist that’s super fun to eat. All the sushi flavors you love baked into a delicious, shareable dish. Great for parties or just when you want a different take on sushi. It simplifies everything you love about sushi while making it even more comforting. Definitely something you’ll want to make again.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake