Kitchens can be closer to design rooms than a whirlwind of activity when dinner is chaotic or time is limited. If food television has you punching up takeout apps, don’t fret it’s not just you. The good news is that neither a master craft nor an hour spent preparing delicious, homemade food is needed. With simple ingredients, simple methods, and a touch of flair, anyone can cook irresistible dishes equivalent to restaurant quality. These recipes are designed so that your evenings are hassle free, with your kitchen acting as the hub of delicious, from scratch fare.
The 14 recipes presented here are the ideal solution for beginners or those who want to enjoy savory, easy dinners without the fuss. From one pot miracles to TikTok famous sensations, every recipe keeps prep and cleanup to a minimum while serving life changing, comforting flavors. Whether saving money, surprising yourself with your cooking ability, or freeing yourself from delivery dependence, these recipes will revolutionize your weeknights. Jump into these friendly, crowd pleasing dinners and see how simple it is to have homemade dinners that taste like a victory. Cut into one of these comforting, satisfying meals and look forward to a weeknight champion.
1. Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake
The casserole wraps you in comfort with less work than other recipes, so it’s a winner with novice cooks. Tender chicken is enhanced by the flavor of a creamy sauce and crunchy stuffing topping, so it will be like returning home. It’s one of those dishes that’s a belly hug, perfect for cold evenings or whenever you need a kitchen win. Simplicity of preparation carries with it complexity of taste, and it’s a comforting dinner any night.
- Fast prep: Combine chicken, canned soup, and prepared stuffing for fast prep.
- Flavor hack: Onion soup mix adds strong flavor without extra chopping.
- Fresh zest: Parsley sprigs bring an explosion of color and energy to the dish.
This bake is impossible to ruin with just a few ingredients that you likely have in your cupboard. It demonstrates that anyone can be a winner without needing to be a kitchen expert. The comforting warmth of the flavors makes it a classic on raging nights. Beginners will be pros with this one. It’s the perfect blend of ease, taste, and comforting goodness.
One-Dish Chicken and Stuffing Bake
Equipment
- 1 3-quart Shallow Baking Dish
- 1 Medium Mixing Bowl For stuffing preparation
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl For sauce preparation
- 1 Instant-Read Thermometer Crucial for ensuring chicken doneness
- 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
Main
- 1 ¼ cups boiling water
- 4 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 4 cups Pepperidge Farm® Herb Seasoned Stuffing
- 6 skinless boneless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon paprika or to taste
- 1 10.5 ounce can Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup or Campbell’s® Condensed 98% Fat Free Cream of Mushroom Soup
- â…“ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Stir together boiling water and butter in a medium bowl until butter is melted. Add stuffing; mix gently until combined. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Spoon stuffing along the center of a 3-quart shallow baking dish. Arrange chicken around stuffing and sprinkle with paprika. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Mix together condensed soup, milk, and parsley in a small bowl; pour over chicken. Cover the dish. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Bake in the preheated oven until chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 30 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
Notes
2. Sausage and Peppers One Pot Rice Cooker
Turn your rice cooker into a dinner hero using this easy, comforting recipe. Sausage, peppers, and rice come together in a delicious dish that cooks about halfway on its own, allowing you to relax and kick back. It’s the perfect dish for a crazy evening when you want something comforting but are short on time to dawdle over the stovetop. The ingredients all get together to provide you with a satisfying meal that is comforting but by no means bland, just what you need for any weeknight.
- Set and forget: Add ingredients to rice cooker and let it do its thing.
- Easy cleanup: Single pot = less washing up after supper.
- Rich flavors: Sausage and peppers bring rich, full flavor to the rice.
This dump and go recipe produces restaurant quality results with ease. A weeknight lifesaver when time is scarce but a home cooked craving exists. Cleanup is minimal so that more time can be spent relaxing. The richly flavored taste fulfills every hunger with ease. A go to for busy home cooks who want ease and flavor.
This One-Pot Sausage and Peppers Rice Cooker Meal Makes Dinner Too Easy
Equipment
- 1 Rice Cooker Essential for this one-pot method.
- 1 Chef’s knife For chopping vegetables and slicing sausage.
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurate ingredient portions.
- 1 Stirring Spoon or Spatula For mixing ingredients and fluffing rice.
Ingredients
Main
- 3/4 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes from 1 [ 14.5-oz.] can
- 2 medium garlic cloves finely chopped (about 2 tsp.)
- 2 tsp. Creole seasoning such as Tony Chachere’s
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper optional
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper from 1 small 7 oz. pepper
- 1/3 cup chopped white onion from 1 small 6 oz. white onion
- 6 oz. andouille sausage sliced into 1/4-inch-thick coins (about 1 1/4 cups)
- Sliced scallions
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and prepare them: finely chop the garlic, chop the green bell pepper and white onion, slice the andouille sausage into 1/4-inch coins, and slice scallions for garnish.
- In the bowl of your rice cooker, combine the uncooked long-grain white rice, chicken broth, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, finely chopped garlic, Creole seasoning, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
- Stir the mixture gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the liquid and rice.
- Evenly layer the chopped green bell pepper, chopped white onion, and sliced andouille sausage over the rice mixture in the rice cooker bowl. Do not stir further.
- Close the lid of the rice cooker securely and set it to the standard “white rice” or
Notes
3. Easy Creamy Chicken Ramen
Turn instant ramen into a healthy, cozy meal with this easy recipe. A rich sauce transforms lifeless noodles into something decadent, perfect for cold nights when you crave warmth with minimal effort. It’s a genius short cut for beginners, requiring only a handful of ingredients to create a dish with the taste of excess. Instant noodles are turned into comfort food by this recipe.
- Pantry make over: Simple additions make ordinary ramen gourmet bliss.
- Rich texture: Creamy broth envelops every noodle in bliss.
- Easy prep: Ready in under 20 minutes, just right for hectic days.
This ramen transforms ordinary ingredients into an evening to remember. Quick, ideal for hectic nights or spur of the moment craves. The rich texture is a hug. Low fuss meal packed with deep, rich flavor. Ideal for fast dinners without compromising flavor.
Easy Creamy Chicken Ramen
Equipment
- 1 Heavy Skillet
- 1 Measuring Spoons
- 1 Measuring Cups
- 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula For stirring and combining ingredients
- 1 Serving Bowl For plating the finished ramen
Ingredients
Main
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup whipping cream
- 1 3 ounce package ramen noodles (without flavor packet)
- 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup chopped cooked chicken
- 1 pinch everything bagel seasoning optional
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add chicken broth, cream, and ramen noodles. Cook, stirring occasionally, until noodles soften, about 3 minutes.
- Add soy sauce and chopped cooked chicken. Allow to get hot.
- Serve garnished with everything bagel seasoning if desired.
Notes
—overcooking will result in a mushy texture. The recipe intentionally omits the ramen flavor packet, relying on the quality of your chicken broth, fresh garlic, and soy sauce for depth of flavor; consider a low-sodium broth to control seasoning. If using fresh garlic, mince it finely to ensure even distribution. Pre-cooked, shredded chicken (like rotisserie) is ideal for this quick preparation. While optional, the everything bagel seasoning offers a delightful textural crunch and aromatic burst; alternatively, a sprinkle of chopped scallions or a drizzle of chili oil could elevate the finish. Always taste and adjust soy sauce before serving.
4. Soy Honey Glazed Salmon and Asparagus
Easy to cook fish with restaurant grade results in 10 minutes. Broiler glazes salmon and asparagus with a sticky sweet savory glaze, making finicky meal prep easy. Ideal for beginners who want to impress with big, healthy flavor. Convenience and speed make it a go to crazy weeknight solution.
- Broiler magic in a record setting: Caramelizes glaze and cooks quickly.
- Balanced flavor: Honey and soy blend to make sweet salt flavor.
- Nutritious plate: Salmon and asparagus bring color and nutrition.
Tasty, easy meal that guarantees beginners in cooking fish. Each bite explodes with flavor from rich glaze. Perfect for beginners who require healthy, dramatic dinner. Easy to prepare, it’s convenience without compromising quality. Stunning dish so easy to prepare.
Soy Honey-Glazed Salmon and Asparagus
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan with Steamer Insert Essential for perfectly steamed asparagus.
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl For whisking the glaze ingredients.
- 1 Whisk Ensures a smooth, uniform glaze.
- 1 Baking Sheet For broiling the salmon and asparagus.
- 1 Silicone Basting Brush For oiling the foil and applying the glaze evenly.
Ingredients
Main
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus trimmed, or as desired
- 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or as needed
- 1 8 ounce salmon fillet
- sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water to just below the bottom of the steamer. Bring water to a boil. Add asparagus, cover, and steam until slightly tender, 2 to 4 minutes.
- Meanwhile, whisk together soy sauce and honey in a small bowl until glaze is smooth.
- Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source; preheat the oven broiler. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and brush with olive oil.
- Place salmon fillet and steamed asparagus on the prepared baking sheet; season with salt and pepper.
- Cook under the preheated broiler for 5 minutes. Drizzle 2/3 of the glaze over salmon and asparagus. Continue broiling until fish flakes easily with a fork, 3 to 5 minutes. Drizzle remaining glaze over salmon.
Notes
5. Shrimp Scampi with Pasta
This Italian staple brings sophistication to your table with the least effort. Delicate sautéed shrimp in a buttery, garlicky sauce smother your preferred pasta, creating a dish that looks sophisticated but is ultra easy to make. It’s great for having friends over or for a Tuesday night indulgence. The crunch of the flavors and quick cooking time make it a favorite at any time.
- Snappy shrimp tip: Poach 2–3 minutes to keep shrimp juicy and tender.
- Dazzling sauce: Lemon, butter, and garlic take the senses by storm with zing.
- Easy wow factor: Wows guests without much skill required.
Prepared in under 30 minutes, this scampi is a crowd pleaser. The strong, tangy flavors easily fill any evening’s dinner. Perfect for stress free entertaining or an evening dinner for two at home. Gourmet quality without the inconvenience of complicated preparation. Quick solution standby for making memorable meals.
Shrimp Scampi with Pasta
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For cooking pasta
- 1 Large Skillet Heavy-bottomed preferred for even heat
- 1 Colander For draining pasta
- 1 Wooden Spoon For stirring and deglazing
- 1 Chef’s knife For dicing and mincing
Ingredients
Main
- 1 16 ounce package linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 shallots finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes Optional
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 pinch kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon juiced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil or to taste
Instructions
- Gather ingredients.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook linguine in boiling water until nearly tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain.
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter with 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook and stir shallots, garlic, and red pepper flakes in the hot butter and oil until shallots are translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Season shrimp with kosher salt and black pepper; add to the skillet and cook until pink, stirring occasionally, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove shrimp from skillet and keep warm.
- Pour white wine and lemon juice into skillet and bring to a boil while scraping the browned bits of food off of the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon.
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter in skillet, stir 2 tablespoons olive oil into butter mixture, and bring to a simmer. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Toss linguine, shrimp, and parsley in the butter mixture until coated; season with salt and black pepper. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil to serve.
- Serve hot and enjoy! DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS
Notes
6. Vegan Chickpea Sweet Potato Curry
This. one pot curry. beats takeout with its rich, heady taste. Sweet potatoes and chickpeas make for a satisfying, veg based meal that’s simple to get imaginative with. It’s great to throw together with whatever veg you have, so it’s a virtuous option for mad nights. The fresh taste and minimal prep make it a weeknight winner.
- Veggie freedom: Swap with cauliflower, kale, or whatever veg you have.
- Minimal dishes: One pot is simple to tidy up from after a long day.
- Healthy and filling: Chickpeas and sweet potatoes are very filling.
Easy for beginners, this vibrant curry is packed with international flavours. Great for introducing new flavours at home with the least amount of fuss. Quick clean up gives you some well earned time. Healthy, filling meal any night. Sustainable cooking has never tasted so fine.
Vegan Sweet Potato Chickpea Curry
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet or Dutch Oven For sautéing and simmering
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Set of Measuring Spoons
- 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula For stirring
Ingredients
Main
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger root
- 1 15 ounce can chickpeas, drained
- 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 1 14 ounce can coconut milk
- 1 sweet potato cubed
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon red chile flakes
- 1 cup baby spinach
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onion, garlic, and ginger in hot oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add chickpeas, tomatoes, coconut milk, and sweet potato. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Season with garam masala, cumin, turmeric, salt, and chile flakes. Add spinach right before serving.
Notes
7. Quick Beef Stir Fry
When minutes matter, this skillet stir fry delivers a healthy, tasty meal in minutes. Rapidly cooking beef and crunchy vegetables at high heat deliver a flexible dish that adapts to whatever’s in your fridge. A weeknight lifesaver for anyone craving homemade without delay. Expediency and flexibility make it a busy cook’s best bet.
- Rapid Cooking: High heat assures tender crisp results in an instant.
- Endless variety: Use your favorite vegetables or sauces like teriyaki or chili.
- Nutrient dense: Combines protein and veg for a nutritious meal.
Takeout substituted with a healthier, homestyle meal. Fast, convenient, and packed with fresh flavor. Perfect for busy evenings when time is of the essence. Add your favorite vegetables for endless variety. Nutritious meal in minutes.
Quick Beef Stir-Fry
Equipment
- 1 Wok or Large Skillet Essential for high-heat stir-frying.
- 1 Chef’s knife For precise slicing of beef and vegetables.
- 1 Cutting Board For safe and efficient ingredient preparation.
- 1 Spatula or Stirring Spoon For constantly moving ingredients in the wok.
- 1 Measuring Spoons For accurate oil and seasoning measurements.
Ingredients
Main
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound beef sirloin cut into 2-inch strips
- 1 ½ cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper cut into matchsticks
- 2 carrots thinly sliced
- 1 green onion chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds toasted
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat; add beef and stir-fry until browned, 3 to 4 minutes. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Move beef to the side of the wok and add broccoli, bell pepper, carrots, green onion, and garlic to the center of the wok; stir-fry vegetables for 2 minutes.
- Stir beef into vegetables and season with soy sauce and sesame seeds. Continue to cook and stir until vegetables are tender, about 2 more minutes. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Serve hot and enjoy! DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS
Notes
8. Best Taco Casserole
It brings together tacos, enchiladas, and nachos and has them all as party staples. With ground beef, cheese, and tortillas, seasoned and stacked on top of one another, it bakes to bubbling goodness with little preparation time. Perfect for a quick party or whenever you crave strong Tex Mex flavors without stress. The vibrant, homestyle flavors are sure to be a hit.
- Layered convenience: Layer foods and let the oven do the work.
- Flavor kick: Taco seasoning gives a quick kick of zest and spice.
- Fresh additions: Sour cream and salsa give a poppy, tangy finish.
Decadent, filling meal that gratifyingly feeds Tex Mex appetites. Casserole is maintenance free, payoff big. Perfect for parties or evenings at home. Deep flavors seduce any crowd into submission. Fast prep time makes it a weeknight winner.
Best Taco Casserole
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet
- 1 9×13 inch Baking Dish
- 1 Spatula Heat-resistant for cooking and stirring
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Chef’s knife
Ingredients
Main
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cups salsa
- 1 16 ounce can chili beans, drained
- 3 cups tortilla chips crushed
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 2 ounce can sliced black olives, drained
- ½ cup chopped green onion
- ½ cup chopped fresh tomato
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9×13-baking dish with cooking spray.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 8 to 10 minutes. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Stir in salsa, reduce heat, and simmer until liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Stir in beans; cook until heated through. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Spread crushed tortilla chips over the bottom of the baking dish; spoon beef mixture on top. Spread sour cream over beef, then sprinkle olives, green onion, and tomatoes on top. Cover with Cheddar cheese. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Bake in the preheated oven until hot and bubbly, about 30 minutes. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Serve and enjoy! Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Beef: Start with a pound of lean ground beef. For a lighter option, you can use ground turkey.Â
- Salsa: Use store-bought salsa or make your own at home.Â
- Canned goods: You’ll need a can of chili beans and canned black olives. Â
- Chips: Crushed tortilla chips add welcome crunch and saltiness.Â
- Sour cream: A layer of sour cream lends cool richness and tangy flavor.Â
- Fresh produce: From the produce section, you’ll need green onions and a fresh tomato.Â
- Cheese: Shredded Cheddar cheese is the perfect finishing touch.
- Cook the beef.Â
- Stir in the salsa, then stir in the beans after the liquid is absorbed.Â
- Layer the casserole according to the detailed recipe below.Â
- Bake until hot and bubbly.Â
Notes
9. Spicy Asian Ramen Noodles
Make instant ramen into hot, salty, sweet no cook sauce. It’s 15 minute food that is bursting with flavor and crunchy happiness on the plate, and the best evidence yet that speedy food is not dull. It’s the ultimate ever hack for novice cooks who need to make pantry ingredients into something extraordinary. The creamy sauce is bliss to chew on.
- Instant sauce: Chili garlic, peanut butter, and soy blended together in minutes.
- Crunchy garnish: Peanuts and green onions add crunch and freshness.
- Fast flavor: Taste enhancement with speedy prep time.
Bright and completely hassle free, this ramen redo is ideal for a zip boost to your weeknight dinner with little effort. Tasty and speedy weeknight dinner. Spicy sauce livens up each bite and keeps it in the spotlight. Great for pantry cooking with big impact.
Spicy Asian Ramen Noodles
Equipment
- 1 Medium Pot For boiling noodles
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl For preparing the sauce
- 1 Whisk To combine sauce ingredients
- 1 Colander For draining cooked noodles
- 1 Chef’s knife For preparing garnishes and ginger
Ingredients
Main
- 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons chili-garlic sauce or more to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 2 3 ounce packages ramen noodles
- 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts
- 2 medium green onions thinly sliced diagonally
Instructions
- Whisk soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, and ginger together in a small bowl. Add peanut butter, whisking until well combined, and set aside.
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a pot. Discard the flavor packet and add ramen noodles to the boiling water. Cook until noodles are tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Drain noodles, reserving some of the noodle water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.
- Pour sauce over ramen noodles, tossing until well coated. If sauce is too thick, thin out with a small amount of the reserved noodle water until you reach your desired consistency. Your hot noodles will soak up the sauce. Garnish with peanuts and green onion, and serve.
Notes
10. Spinach Tomato Tortellini
This recipe elevates pasta night to gourmet heights with rich tomato sauce and cheese tortellini. Ready in 20 minutes, it’s gourmet quality but using humble ingredients, so perfect for crazy nights. Rich tortellini and rich sauce are a crowd pleasing, comforting duo. It’s an excellent mix of indulgence and simplicity.
- Rich base: Homemade tortellini cuts preparation time in half.
- Creamy sauce: Cream and Parmesan transform tomatoes and spinach into luxury.
- Impressive results: Wows dinner guests with little effort being required.
Decadent pasta dish that’s quick to prepare for any occasion. Ideal for entertaining without the bother of complicated recipes. Irresistible and heavenly rich, creamy sauce. Prepared in a flash for hectic evenings. Crowd pleasing classic that’s special each time.
Leftover Turkey Spinach Tortellini Soup
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Ladle for serving
- 1 Measuring Spoons Set
Ingredients
Main
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon basil
- 8 cups organic free-range chicken broth
- 1 cup mini cheese tortellini
- 2 cups cooked turkey chopped
- 1 1/2 pounds organic baby spinach
- 1 cup organic grape tomatoes halved
- freshly cracked black pepper
- freshly shaved Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced celery and onions; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and basil; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the organic free-range chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add mini cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped cooked turkey.
- Add the organic baby spinach and halved organic grape tomatoes.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Season generously with freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese.
Notes
11. One Pan Baked Feta Pasta
This TikTok staple couldn’t be simpler. Caramelize garlic, tomatoes, and feta into a deep sauce, then combine with pasta for a colorful, crispy dinner. A single pan recipe that crowns plates at one but serves up restaurant level flavor, the ease and boldness render it a weeknight champion.
- Oven convenience: Ingredients reduce into sauce as you relax.
- Few dishes: One pan means cleanup is simple.
- Viral fame: Simple ingredients result in a mouth dropping, scrumptious outcome.
A show stopping dinner with no effort. Easy cleanup makes it perfect for wild nights. The rich, tangy sauce is a flavor dream come true. A viral hit as wonderful as everyone claims it is. Perfect for wow worthy weeknight meals.
One-Pan Oven Mac and Cheese
Equipment
- 1 Oven-Safe Baking Dish Preferably 9×13 inch or similar capacity
- 1 Box Grater For fresh grating of cheeses
- 1 Measuring Cups For liquids and pasta
- 1 Large Mixing Spoon or Spatula For combining and stirring ingredients
- 1 Aluminum Foil For covering the baking dish
Ingredients
Main
- 0.5 8 ounce package Fontina cheese
- 0.5 8 ounce package sharp Cheddar cheese
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 1.5 cups half-and-half
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 0.25 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese
- 0.25 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grate the Fontina and sharp Cheddar cheeses, if they are not already shredded.
- In a large, oven-safe baking dish (approximately 9×13 inch), combine the uncooked macaroni, half-and-half, milk, grated Fontina, and grated sharp Cheddar.
- Season the mixture generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Stir all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the macaroni is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam, which is crucial for cooking the pasta.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Carefully remove the foil, stir the mac and cheese to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, then sprinkle with the shredded white Cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the mac and cheese stand for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly, enhancing its creamy consistency.
Notes
12. Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This crispy, golden chicken breast is the perfect go to for any night. Garlic Parmesan crust delivers bold flavor, and baking keeps it simple enough for a novice. Serve with no frills or add some frills for a celebratory evening. It’s the in kitchen favorite due to its simplicity and versatility.
- Golden crust: Aromatic, crunchy exterior from Parmesan and garlic.
- Flexible uses: May be served with vegetables, atop marinara sauce, or cut up into salads.
- Easy to bake: Makes juicy outcomes without hassle.
A good recipe that is versatile and filled with wonderful flavor. This chicken will be worth the price of any diet plan. The dense, meaty crust is a winner every time. Yummy for novice cooks searching for kitchen know how. A starting point for hundreds of inventive meals.
Crunchy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Equipment
- 2 Baking Sheets Heavy large size recommended
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl For buttermilk soak
- 1 Medium Mixing Bowl For vinaigrette
- 1 Pie Dish or Shallow Dish For breading
- 1 Whisk For vinaigrette
Ingredients
Main
- 4 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders about 18
- 3 large garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/4 cups freshly grated Parmesan
- 3/4 cup Italian-style seasoned bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F.
- Brush 1 tablespoon of oil over each of 2 heavy large lined baking sheets. Place the buttermilk in a large bowl. Add the chicken tenders and stir to coat. Let stand at least 15 minutes and up to 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mash the garlic with the salt in a medium bowl. Whisk in the vinegar and then the remaining 1/2 cup of oil. Season the vinaigrette, to taste, with pepper. Transfer the vinaigrette to a small serving bowl.
- Stir the Parmesan and bread crumbs in a pie dish. Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk and dredge them in the bread crumb mixture to coat completely, pressing to adhere. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheets, spacing evenly. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over the chicken tenders and bake until they are cooked through and golden brown, about 12 minutes.
- Transfer the chicken tenders to a platter and serve the vinaigrette alongside for dipping.
Notes
13. Chicken Pesto Pizza
Shelley: Dump finicky dough with this quick pizza from a pre made crust. Chicken, pesto, and optional toppings are the solution for making a comfort food your own in minutes. It’s the perfect for busy weeknights when pizza cravings hit but don’t want the delivery or bother. The strong flavors are a weeknight champion.
- Numerous crusts in storage: Any pre made crust is a time and labor saver.
- Flexibility of toppings: Utilize vegetables, cheeses, or meat based on your preference.
- Rapid comfort: Flash moment for comfort nights.
Gourmet flavor without the hassle. Ideal for speedy weeknights or spontaneous get togethers. Custom designed to suit your taste to suit your appetite for boundless variety. Quick, comforting food that never fails. Ideal for pizza enthusiasts who prefer it simple.
Chicken Pesto Pizza
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet Or pizza stone, for even baking
- 1 Spoon or Spatula For spreading pesto
- 1 Measuring Cup For pesto
- 1 Pizza Cutter For serving
- 1 Cutting Board and Knife For any final prep of chicken or artichokes
Ingredients
Main
- ½ cup pesto basil sauce
- 1 12 inch pre-baked pizza crust
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast strips
- 1 6 ounce jar artichoke hearts, drained
- ½ cup shredded fontina cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
- Spread pesto sauce over the pizza crust. Arrange chicken pieces and artichoke hearts over the sauce, and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, until cheese is melted and lightly browned at the edges.
Notes
14. Pork Fried Rice
Turn leftovers into a vibrant, takeout quality dinner using this simple fried rice. Cold rice, pork, and whatever veg you have all mixed up in a hot pan is the key to a speedy, satisfying meal. A green solution to turning fridge leftovers into something tasty. Convenience and taste are why it’s a weeknight winner.
- Leftover magic: Cold rice and pork become a new meal.
- Flexible ingredients: Use any vegetables or add ginger for extra zing.
- Fast results: Soy sauce and garlic pack big flavor with a quick fix.
This fried rice makes leftovers fun and tasty. Quick, sustainable, and adaptable to what’s in your fridge. A restaurant quality meal in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal effort. A simple way for anyone to reduce waste and have a great meal.
Pork Fried Rice
Equipment
- 1 Large Non-Stick Skillet
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Cutting Board
Ingredients
Main
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 6 ounce boneless pork loin chop, cut into small pieces
- 1 green onion chopped
- ¼ cup chopped carrot
- ¼ cup chopped broccoli
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 cup cold cooked rice
- ¼ cup frozen peas
- 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
- â…› teaspoon garlic powder
- â…› teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Melt butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add pork, green onion, carrot, and broccoli; cook and stir until pork is cooked through, 7 to 10 minutes. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Transfer pork mixture to a bowl and return skillet to medium heat. Stir egg into the skillet and scramble until completely set. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Add pork mixture back into the skillet; stir in rice, peas, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
- Cook and stir until heated through, 7 to 10 minutes. Serve and enjoy! Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
Notes
These 14 recipes provide you with the convenience and confidence to dominate weeknight suppers. From thoroughly tried, homey, and snuggly classics to pure genius hacks, they prepare in no time, are simple to make, and packed with flavor, so anyone can effortlessly whip up delicious, stress free meals at home.
