Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, trying to whip up a meal that will please everyone at the table? Do you wish you had more time to focus on other things, like work or hobbies, rather than cooking up a storm?
We totally get it. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 18 easy 6-ingredient recipes for busy weeknights. With just six ingredients (or fewer!) per dish, these meals are perfect for when you’re short on time but still want to serve up something delicious and satisfying.
From seafood to chicken, soup to casserole, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to fit your tastes and dietary needs. And the best part? Each one is incredibly easy to make, so you can focus on other things while dinner cooks away in the background. So go ahead, take a look at our top picks below, and get cooking!
6-Ingredient Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Ready in just 15 minutes, this 6-ingredient recipe is a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With the combination of succulent shrimp, garlic butter sauce, and al dente pasta, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and shrimp in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
6-Ingredient Honey Mustard Chicken
This recipe combines the rich flavors of honey and mustard with the simplicity of chicken breasts, creating a sweet and tangy dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and thyme until well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
6-Ingredient Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil. This 6-ingredient recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cups fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
6-Ingredient Lemon Garlic Roasted Salmon
Brighten up your meal with this vibrant and flavorful roasted salmon recipe, featuring a zesty lemon-garlic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
– Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
– Adjust cooking time based on salmon thickness and desired doneness.
– Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.
6-Ingredient Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, crunchy broccoli, and fluffy rice. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner solution that’s quick to prepare and serves a crowd.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, and paprika.
3. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter and milk until smooth.
4. Add shredded cheese to the wet mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the cheesy sauce over the rice-broccoli mixture and stir until coated evenly.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
6-Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
A delicious and refreshing treat that combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the sweetness of banana, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the vanilla yogurt and milk, blending until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie.
6. Blend again to crush the ice.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes.
6-Ingredient Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the nutritious goodness of spinach. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan 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 mixture.
4. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
6-Ingredient One-Pot Beef and Broccoli
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need a nutritious and flavorful meal in no time. This 6-ingredient one-pot wonder combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 can (14 oz) beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add broccoli to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Pour in beef broth, water, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
6-Ingredient Avocado Tuna Salad
This 6-Ingredient Avocado Tuna Salad recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the savory flavor of tuna, creating a delicious and healthy snack or lunch option. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 (6 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine diced avocado, flaked tuna, and chopped red onion.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
5. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
6-Ingredient Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Transform ordinary zucchinis into crispy, cheesy fries with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
• 2 large zucchinis
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice zucchinis into fry shapes, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each zucchini fry into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired!
6-Ingredient Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouth-watering slow cooker recipe that requires minimal effort and yields maximum flavor. This 6-ingredient pulled pork is perfect for a stress-free dinner or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sliced onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Spread this mixture evenly over the pork.
3. Pour the BBQ sauce over the top of the pork.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into tender, juicy strands.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, buns, or cornbread.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
6-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the hassle of baking a full batch of cookies. With just six ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and indulgent snack in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup creamy butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine peanut butter and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Fold in chocolate chips and salt.
5. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form into bite-sized balls.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are no-bake, so you can enjoy them straight from the fridge.
6-Ingredient Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the classic Italian flavors of caprese salad with the earthy taste of portobello mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the tomato-mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle with balsamic glaze.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
6-Ingredient Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
Transform cauliflower into a delicious and healthy rice alternative with this simple recipe. The combination of cilantro, lime juice, and garlic creates a bright and citrusy flavor profile that’s perfect for pairing with your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
6. Stir in the cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
6-Ingredient Greek Yogurt Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of these moist and delicious pancakes made with the power of Greek yogurt!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, flour, sugar, and egg until smooth.
2. Add the salt and baking powder; whisk until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 pancakes
6-Ingredient Spicy Black Bean Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these 6-ingredient quesadillas that combine the flavors of black beans, peppers, and cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, red bell pepper, and jalapeño.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with about 1/4 cup of the bean mixture.
4. Top with 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
6-Ingredient Coconut Curry Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the spiciness of curry powder, all wrapped up in a hearty lentil package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 cup shredded fresh coconut or 1/2 cup coconut milk
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Add diced tomatoes, coconut oil, curry powder, and shredded coconut (or coconut milk). Stir well.
3. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
6-Ingredient No-Bake Energy Balls
Boost your energy levels with these no-bake, easy-to-make bites that require only a few ingredients and no cooking time at all! Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the chocolate chips, chia seeds, and salt.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy balls are ready in just a few minutes of mixing and shaping.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious no-bake energy balls!
Summary
Get ready for a culinary rescue! This collection of 18 easy 6-ingredient recipes is perfect for busy weeknights. From creamy pasta to savory soups, and from sweet treats to quick meals, these recipes will satisfy your cravings without breaking a sweat. With ingredients like garlic butter, honey mustard, peanut butter, and more, you’ll be cooking up a storm in no time!