When it comes to cooking, we’ve all been there – staring blankly at a fridge full of ingredients, wondering what to make for dinner. Whether you’re a busy professional, a new cook, or simply looking for a way to get out of the kitchen quickly, finding a reliable and delicious recipe can be a lifesaver. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 quick and easy dinner recipes that are perfect for beginners and those with limited time.
From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to international-inspired dishes like quesadillas and stir-fries, these recipes offer a range of flavors and cooking methods to suit every taste. And the best part? They’re all incredibly simple to make and require minimal ingredients – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
One-Pot Garlic Butter Pasta
A creamy, flavorful pasta dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
5-Ingredient Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken
Brighten up your dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic baked chicken recipe that’s quick to prepare and packed with citrusy goodness. With only 5 ingredients, you can’t go wrong!
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning evenly.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top of each breast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe is a winner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs (e.g., paprika, thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place sausage on one half of the pan, leaving some space between each link.
4. Arrange vegetables in a single layer around the sausage.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the veggies and season with salt, pepper, and your desired herbs or spices.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and veggies are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
10-Minute Creamy Avocado Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this 10-minute recipe that combines the creaminess of avocado with the richness of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add diced avocado to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until avocado is slightly softened.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add to the skillet with avocado mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and toss again to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Transform your pork shoulder into tender, fall-apart goodness with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a crowd or a lazy weekend, this BBQ pulled pork is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Get a quick and delicious meal on the table with this simple beef and broccoli stir fry recipe. This classic combination is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
3. In same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Quesadilla with Black Beans
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this deliciously simple recipe that combines the flavors of melted cheese, savory black beans, and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked black beans and 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the bean-cheese mixture.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted, flipping halfway through.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve hot with additional cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the delicate taste of salmon. This baked Parmesan crusted salmon is a quick and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each salmon fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated salmon on prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and sprinkle with garlic.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Mexican Quinoa
This One-Pan Mexican Quinoa recipe is a delicious and convenient meal that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the bold flavors of Mexico. With just one pan to clean, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, avocado, or sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the quinoa, water or broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Fluff with a fork and serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
15-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this 15-minute shrimp recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the honey-garlic mixture.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled chicken, tangy feta cheese, and fresh vegetables for a delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, olives, feta cheese, and grilled chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil and vinegar over the salad. Toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy Vegetarian Tacos with Avocado
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional tacos, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. With the creamy richness of avocado and the bold flavors of roasted vegetables, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup diced zucchini
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco (or vegan alternative), avocado slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning roasted vegetables onto tortillas, followed by black beans and avocado slices (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
This classic Italian dish gets a modern twist with this quick and easy recipe using the Instant Pot. With tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and al dente fettuccine, this comforting meal is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chicken, cook until browned (about 3-4 minutes), then remove from pot.
3. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the fettuccine pasta and stir to coat with sauce.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, close lid, and set valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press “Manual” mode and cook at high pressure for 8 minutes.
7. Let pressure release naturally (NR) for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This simple yet flavorful pasta dish originates from the Campania region of Italy, where garlic and olive oil are staples. With just a few ingredients and no cream or tomato sauce in sight, this recipe is perfect for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic mixture.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lazy Day Mac and Cheese
Take a break from cooking with this comforting, creamy macaroni and cheese recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add milk and stir until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Elevate your weeknight dinner with these flavorful and tender steak bites, infused with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and add the garlic butter mixture. Toss to coat the steak evenly.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Quick Mushroom Fried Rice
Get a flavorful meal on the table quickly with this simple recipe that combines sautéed mushrooms, rice, and vegetables. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend brunches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start browning, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Push mushroom mixture to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the other side and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with mushrooms. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until rice is heated through and starting to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oven-Baked Chicken Fajitas
Elevate the flavors of traditional fajitas with this easy and convenient oven-baked recipe. Moist chicken, tender peppers, and crispy tortillas come together for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet fajita seasoning
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
3. Sprinkle fajita seasoning over the top and mix until the ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the mixture in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas with chicken, peppers, onions, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
This classic comfort food combination is perfect for a cozy night in. Fresh tomatoes and basil are blended with chicken broth and cream, served alongside a crispy grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly.
3. Stir in heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top with cheese and another bread slice, butter-side up.
5. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes per side. Serve soup alongside grilled cheese sandwiches.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Egg Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe combines cooked rice, scrambled eggs, frozen peas and carrots, and a hint of soy sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the scrambled eggs and cook until set, breaking them up with a spatula as they cook.
3. Add the frozen peas and carrots and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until thawed and heated through.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the egg and vegetable mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Discover quick and easy dinner recipes perfect for beginners and busy nights! This collection features 20 mouthwatering dishes that can be prepared in no time. From one-pot pasta to slow cooker pulled pork, there’s something for everyone. Try One-Pot Garlic Butter Pasta, 5-Ingredient Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken, or Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies. Or go the easy route with 10-Minute Creamy Avocado Pasta or Lazy Day Mac and Cheese. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a new culinary adventure, these recipes are sure to satisfy your hunger.
