Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience when it comes to weeknight meals? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 quick and delicious recipes that can be whipped up in no time, perfect for busy households with little time to spare. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a stress-free dinner option or a parent seeking a meal solution that will keep everyone happy and full, we’ve got you covered. Our selection includes everything from hearty pasta dishes to speedy stir-fries, and even some sweet treats to satisfy your cravings.
So go ahead and take a look at our top 20 quick everyday recipes below – you won’t be disappointed!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rice
A classic comfort food dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters! This Garlic Butter Chicken with Rice recipe is a simple and flavorful meal that combines juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and creamy butter with fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with fluffy white rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
Cooking up a delicious spaghetti bolognese has never been easier! This one-pot wonder requires minimal prep and serves up a flavorful, satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the spaghetti; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Honey Mustard Salmon and Veggies
Elevate your dinner game with this effortless sheet pan recipe, featuring sweet and savory honey mustard salmon paired with a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and lemon zest.
3. Place the salmon fillets on one half of a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey mustard mixture evenly over the salmon.
4. Toss the chopped carrots, Brussels sprouts, and red bell peppers with salt and pepper to taste. Spread them out on the other half of the sheet pan.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
15-Minute Beef Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful beef stir-fry with this simple recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute, until the flavors are combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil and the creaminess of a rich sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfyingly short cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with tomato mixture. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with creamy tomato sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Breakfast Burritos
Easy Breakfast Burritos Recipe
Summary: Start your day with a delicious and filling breakfast burrito packed with scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and veggies.
Ingredients:
• 6 large eggs
• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 large tortillas (flour or whole wheat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs, sausage mixture, and shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe
Are you craving tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiches with minimal effort? Look no further! This recipe uses a slow cooker to cook the pork shoulder to perfection, then shreds it and serves it on a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, onion, garlic, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Shred the cooked pork with two forks and stir to combine with any remaining juices in the slow cooker.
4. Split hamburger buns and spoon shredded pork onto each bun.
5. Serve immediately, topped with coleslaw if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Vegetable Fried Rice
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of many Asian cuisines, and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. With its mix of savory vegetables, fluffy rice, and scrambled eggs, this vegetable fried rice recipe is a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan; scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
7. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
9. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs
This recipe combines creamy avocado, runny poached eggs, and crispy toast for a nutritious and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch, this dish is easy to make and packed with healthy fats and protein.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 4 slices of whole grain bread (toasted)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– 2 eggs
– Water for poaching
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and mash it in a bowl with a fork.
3. Poach the eggs by cracking them into simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the whites are set and yolks are still runny.
4. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toasted bread.
5. Place the poached eggs on top of the avocado.
6. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious broccoli and melty cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 6-8 crackers (such as Ritz or Saltines), crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, milk, melted butter, corn kernels, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle crushed crackers evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Pancakes
Start your day with a flavorful and fluffy breakfast treat that combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the warmth of pancakes. These moist and creamy pancakes are perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Flavorings such as vanilla extract or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, egg, milk, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
5. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skillet
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skillet Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful skillet dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until softened.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the lemon garlic sauce.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken. These easy-to-make bites are perfect for a quick dinner or party snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the BBQ mixture.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. In a large skillet, place a tortilla over medium heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
7. Add a few pieces of BBQ chicken to the cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
9. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and moist chicken dish packed with the tanginess of feta cheese and the earthy taste of spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day. This Instant Pot beef stew is easy to make and packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and brown the beef in small batches.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including natural release)
Homemade Margherita Pizza
Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this classic recipe for homemade Margherita pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 12 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 8-10 fresh basil leaves
– Salt, for seasoning
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a circle or rectangle.
6. Top the dough with mozzarella cheese and basil leaves. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Wrap
Satisfy your hunger with this easy-to-make turkey and cheese wrap, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 2 oz sliced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped lettuce
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Arrange the turkey, cheese, lettuce, and cucumber in the center of the tortilla.
3. Drizzle with mayonnaise.
4. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a tight cylinder.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This simple yet elegant salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Elevate the classic Caprese by drizzling it with a rich balsamic glaze for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top tomatoes with mozzarella cheese slices.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, followed by balsamic glaze (see note).
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served immediately after assembly.
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
A delicious and nutritious treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of banana, blended to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the banana and place it in a blender.
2. Add the peanut butter, yogurt, milk, and honey to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired consistency.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, ready in just a few minutes.
Overnight Oats with Berries
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast that’s ready when you are! This simple recipe for overnight oats with berries is perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container with a lid, combine oats, almond milk, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the mixed berries on top of the oat mixture.
3. Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. In the morning, give the oats a stir to redistribute the berries. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! The oats will soak in the refrigerator while you sleep.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy breakfast!
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious meal ideas to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 easy-to-make recipes that can be prepared in no time. From classic comfort food like cheesy broccoli casserole and creamy tomato basil pasta, to international-inspired dishes like sheet pan honey mustard salmon and veggies and BBQ chicken quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with a range of breakfast and brunch options, including easy breakfast burritos and Greek yogurt pancakes, you’ll never be stuck for ideas again.