Stop wasting your precious time in the kitchen with complicated recipes. These 17 meals are quick to make, freeing up your time so you can enjoy your food without all the fuss. Whether you’re a beginner or just short on time, these recipes will show you that a good meal doesn’t need hours of prep. More eating, less cooking—that’s the real dream.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Most people love a good comfort food and this casserole is a great example. Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is quick to put together, and gives you more time to enjoy the meal with family. Packed with flavors, the sauce ties everything together perfectly. It’s something kids and adults alike enjoy. Perfect for when you’re pressed for time, but want a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup
Searching for a cozy meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is what you need. It brings a blend of textures in each spoonful. Perfect for a lunch or light dinner, this soup doesn’t need much time to whip up. You’ll have a warm, filling dish that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup
Korean Galbi Ribs
If you want the flavors of an authentic restaurant at home, Korean Galbi Ribs will do the trick. This dish brings together tenderness and rich flavors in a short time. Getting the ribs to the table faster means you’ll be enjoying your meal relaxing rather than cooking the entire time. Ideal for busy nights, these ribs are sure to impress. Plus, leftovers the next day are just as good.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Craving some Italian without the take-out wait time? Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka is right up your alley. It’s a straightforward dish that feels special. Great for when you want something a bit fancy without tons of prep time. Before you know it, you’ll be seated enjoying a robust and creamy pasta that feels like a restaurant meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Chicken Piccata
Sometimes simple is best, and Chicken Piccata fits the bill perfectly. With its bright and tangy sauce, you won’t have to spend your whole evening in the kitchen. Easy to prepare, it’s a great dish when you’re short on time. Pairs well with many sides, adding to its convenience. Enjoy more moments at the table chatting and less by the stove.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata
Beefy John Wayne Casserole
This is a hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights. Beefy John Wayne Casserole combines layers of flavors in each bite. No need to spend hours cooking. It’s the kind of dish that everyone can gather around and enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to prep in advance for even quicker meal times. Cook it up, serve it hot, and spend the rest of your evening enjoying good company.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole
Chinese Chicken Salad
Need a fresh and quick meal option? Chinese Chicken Salad is your go-to. It’s a mix of flavors and textures that’s prepared in no time. You’ll appreciate the balance of hearty and refreshing elements. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. This salad makes you feel like you’ve done something special without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad
Roast Pork with Apples
For those who enjoy a balanced meal, Roast Pork with Apples is worth exploring. The flavors meld effortlessly. You’ll have more downtime and fewer kitchen moments. This is excellent for either a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. A good balance of tasty and sweet without extensive cooking.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples
Creamy Low Carb Chicken Marsala
Trying to keep it low-carb and still tasty? Creamy Keto Chicken Marsala is what you need. It’s quick to make and feels like a gourmet meal. You don’t have to skimp on flavor just because you’re short on time. This dish proves you can have the best of both worlds. Enjoy it for dinner without the long prep.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Keto Chicken Marsala
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes
If variety is what you aim for in your meals, Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes offer a quick and delicious option. They’re easy to whip up and bring a unique flavor. Perfect for when you’re tired of the same old dinner routine. Less time cooking means more time to relax and taste your meal. These can be a fun twist on your usual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Everybody wants something flavorful that’s quick to prepare. Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef hits the mark. A versatile dish that can be used in various ways. Great for those nights when time isn’t on your side. In minutes, you’re ready to eat and enjoy rather than stirring over the stove.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef
Leftover Steak Quesadilla
Got leftover steak and need a fast meal? Leftover Steak Quesadilla is just the solution. Transform those leftovers into something exciting in no time. You won’t believe how quick it is to assemble. An ideal dish for busy evenings and it’s sure to be a hit. Melty cheese and crispy edges make it an easy favorite.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
Hassle-free and flavorful, Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is a winner. It’s easy to prepare and heads straight to the oven. This leaves you with more time doing what you love rather than cooking. Pairs well with various sides. It delivers a full meal without the extra clean-up. More eating, less cooking, means more family time.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Want something set-it-and-forget-it? Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are perfect. Pop everything into the slow cooker in the morning and go about your day. By dinner, you’ve got a warm meal ready to enjoy. These meatballs are convenient and delicious, cutting down on dinner prep time. After a stress-free prep, come home to a ready-made meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Wild Rice Salad
Wild Rice Salad fits the bill. It’s a mix of hearty and light elements. Quick to toss together, it balances flavors nicely. Great for lunch or a side, and doesn’t require you to spend too much time in the kitchen. The combination of textures and flavors keeps it interesting. Spend your time enjoying the meal, not making it.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
If you enjoy sandwiches but want something more filling, Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is where it’s at. More substance than a typical sandwich, but just as easy to prepare. Perfect for lunch or a fast dinner. Combine ingredients quickly and enjoy. Ideal for those busy days when you still want something satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter
Everyone loves a good steak, and Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter brings that satisfaction with ease. Easy preparation means less time over the grill and more time enjoying the meal. Adds a new twist to your regular steak nights without being complicated. Perfect for casual dinners or entertaining without a lot of work. More time to relax and fewer minutes cooking.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter
