Can’t cook? 27 no-fuss recipes even the worst cooks can make

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Let’s face it – not everyone feels at home in the kitchen. For some of us, cooking can seem like a complicated chore rather than a fun activity. But guess what? You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to create delightful dishes. In fact, we’ve got you covered with 27 simple, fuss-free recipes designed especially for those who’d rather not spend hours sweating over the stove.

Whether you’ve had epic kitchen fails or just prefer quick and easy meals, these recipes are here to change your cooking game. They’re proof that with a little guidance and some straightforward ingredients, anyone can become a master of their kitchen. So, let’s roll up those sleeves and get started, shall we?

Chinese gochujang chicken in a skillet on a table with black kitchen towel wrapped around the handle.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and broccoli stir fry served with white rice on a white plate.
Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Thinly sliced shaved beef is the way to a lightning-fast stir-fry. You’re looking at a meal that can rival your favorite takeout, but with less guilt and more flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Garlic Chicken Bite Skillet

Garlic chicken bites with peppers and mushrooms in a skillet.
Garlic Chicken Bite Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Imagine tender chicken bites with aromatic garlic, sautéed with crisp veggies, all in one pan. Perfect for those evenings when even takeout feels like too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Bite Skillet

Sheet Pan Sausage & Vegetables

Chicken sausage and vegetables on a baking sheet.
Sheet Pan Sausage & Vegetables. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Toss some sausage and colorful vegetables on a sheet pan and let the oven do its magic. A fuss-free, mouth-watering meal that minimizes effort and maximizes taste.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Sausage & Vegetables

Greek Shrimp Skillet

Shrimp skillet dinner with kalamata olives, tomatoes and feta.
Greek Shrimp Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Transport your taste buds to Greece with this shrimp skillet. With hints of tangy feta, fresh oregano, and a burst of lemon, it’s an easy 30-minute escape from the usual.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Skillet

Sheet Pan Roasted Peri Peri Chicken

Spatchcock chicken with peri peri seasoning on a baking sheet with green beans and sweet potatoes.
Sheet Pan Roasted Peri Peri Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A bold peri peri spice blend takes this chicken from ordinary to extraordinary. With a simple spatchcock trick, you get evenly cooked chicken, all on one pan in 35 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Peri Peri Chicken

Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ground beef and sweet potato skillet.
Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Who knew a simple combo of ground beef and sweet potato could be so satisfying? Infused with southwestern flair, it’s a one-pan wonder that also makes for tasty leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ground Beef Stir Fry

Ground beef stir fry in a skillet.
Ground Beef Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ditch the takeout menus. This beef stir fry, packed with vibrant veggies and a savory sauce, is a surefire winner. Quick, delicious, and healthier than your usual order.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry

Sheet Pan Pork Chop Dinner

Pork chops with purple cabbage and apples on a baking sheet.
Sheet Pan Pork Chop Dinner. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pork chops, red cabbage, potatoes, apples… all in one pan. A hearty, balanced meal that’s perfect for busy nights, with the added bonus of minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Pork Chop Dinner

Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Mexican ground beef skillet recipe with melted cheese.
Mexican Ground Beef Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Say hello to your new go-to when you’re craving Mexican. Taco seasoning infuses this dish with flavor, making every bite a fiesta. Table-ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Pork and Cabbage Stir Fry

Ground pork and purple cabbage stir fry in a white pan.
Pork and Cabbage Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Give a nod to Asian cuisine with this flavorful stir fry. Ground pork meets cabbage and mushrooms, all bathed in a sauce that’s light yet packed with taste.
Get the Recipe: Pork and Cabbage Stir Fry

Smoky Steak Potato & Pepper Skillet

Steak peppers and potato skillet with a metal serving spoon.
Smoky Steak Potato & Pepper Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This steak and potato skillet is hearty, smoky, and delicious. All your dinner favorites in one pan and on your table in just 40 minutes. Efficient cooking at its best.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Steak Potato & Pepper Skillet

Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Skillet

Thai basil cashew chicken in a cast iron skillet.
Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

The magic of Thai basil shines in this cashew chicken skillet. Paired with a savory-sweet sauce, it’s a one-pan wonder that might have you skipping the takeout.
Get the Recipe: Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Skillet

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Ground beef cabbage stir fry in a bowl with chopsticks.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Simple ingredients, stellar flavors. This beef and cabbage dish gives a nod to Asian cuisine, delivering texture, taste, and satisfaction in every bite. 30 minutes flat!
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Gochujang Chicken

Chinese gochujang chicken in a skillet on a table with black kitchen towel wrapped around the handle.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spicy, sticky, and superb. This gochujang chicken dish packs a flavorful punch, all ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect with rice and guaranteed to beat regular takeout.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Vegetable Bean Skillet

Cast iron skillet with beans and vegetables.
Vegetable Bean Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Who says meatless has to be bland? This skillet bursts with fresh veggies and beans, delivering a protein-packed, satisfying meal without the meat. Perfect for any day.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Bean Skillet

Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu & Vegetables

Sheet pan tofu and vegetables with BBQ sauce on a plate.
Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu & Vegetables. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A single sheet pan is all you need! Lay out your tofu and veggies, drench with BBQ, and bake. It’s a hassle-free meal with minimal cleanup – perfect for kitchen novices!
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu & Vegetables

Kung Pao Chickpeas

Kung pao chickpea dish in a bowl with rice and skillet off to the left.
Kung Pao Chickpeas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

No intricate cooking methods here. Simply toss chickpeas in a pot with the Kung Pao sauce, stir, and serve. Who knew recreating a takeout classic could be this easy?
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chickpeas

Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes

Roasted chicken thighs with sweet potatoes and pecans.
Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

One-pan magic right here. Toss chicken and sweet potatoes onto a pan, bake, and serve. The straightforward prep makes this a win for those new to the kitchen!
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes

Sweet & Sour Tofu

Sweet and sour tofu in a bowl with rice and chopsticks on the side.
Sweet & Sour Tofu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Freshly fried tofu meets an effortless sauce. The trick? Everything cooks quickly in one pan. Say goodbye to multi-step recipes and hello to simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Tofu

Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken

Maple mustard chicken breasts with brussels sprouts, squash and cranberries.
Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

No marination, no fuss! Slather chicken in maple mustard, add veggies to the pan, and bake. It’s a straightforward dinner solution with tons of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Maple Mustard Chicken

Sheet Pan Tofu

Sheet pan tofu with roasted cabbage and peppers with rice.
Sheet Pan Tofu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Unsure about tofu? This recipe makes it easy. Just season, add veggies, and bake on a single sheet. Even cooking beginners will nail this every time.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Tofu

Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas

Shrimp and steak fajitas with peppers and onions.
Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Combining steak and shrimp on one pan means less mess and less stress. Season, bake, and serve for a no-fail surf and turf delight.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas

Sheet Pan Turmeric Salmon

Turmeric salmon with cherry sauce and roasted broccoli rabe on a plate.
Sheet Pan Turmeric Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Easy and healthy in one! Just season the salmon with turmeric, add to your sheet pan with sides, and bake. The perfect recipe for those wary of cooking fish.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Turmeric Salmon

General Tso Shrimp

Homemade general tso shrimp with broccoli and rice in a bowl with chopsticks.
General Tso Shrimp. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ditch complicated takeout recipes. This one’s a breeze with a simple sauce and quick-cooking shrimp. You’ll get all the taste in half the time and with none of the fuss.
Get the Recipe: General Tso Shrimp

Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Bucatini cacio e pepe in a bowl with a gold fork and a pepper mill off to the side.
Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

With just five ingredients, this is simplicity at its best. The magic lies in the pasta water and cheese combo, making a creamy sauce that’s hard to mess up.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Shrimp Lo Mein

Shrimp lo mein in a skillet with chopped green onions in a white bowl on the side.
Shrimp Lo Mein. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Goodbye, complicated recipes! Grab some noodles, shrimp, and veggies. A few stirs in a pan, and this easy-to-master dish is ready faster than you can say “Lo Mein”.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Lo Mein

Chinese Chicken Zoodles

Zucchini noodles with shredded chicken in a stir fry sauce in cast iron skillet.
Chinese Chicken Zoodles. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

No expertise needed here. Spiralized zucchini, chicken, and a quick sauce make for a straightforward stir-fry. It’s a healthier take on takeout, minus the cooking drama.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Zoodles

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