5 ingredients, zero fuss: these 17 recipes make cooking easy

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Sometimes, the best meals are the ones that keep things simple, and that’s exactly what these 5-ingredient recipes offer—easy dishes with big flavor and little hassle. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re just not in the mood for a long ingredient list, each recipe here is crafted to save you time without skimping on taste. From family dinners to quick snacks, you’ll find that cooking with minimal ingredients can be just as satisfying and rewarding as any gourmet meal.

Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.
Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sheet Pan Eggs with Bacon

Sheet pan with cooked eggs, spinach, tomatoes, broccoli, and bacon.
Sheet Pan Eggs with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These sheet pan eggs with bacon make breakfast simple, providing an easy way to serve a complete morning meal without hassle. With just five ingredients, this recipe delivers a hearty, no-fuss option. Ideal for family breakfasts or meal prepping, it cooks evenly in one pan and requires little cleanup. The savory flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with fluffy eggs, creating a warm, protein-rich start to the day. Perfect for busy mornings when you want something quick and homemade.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Eggs with Bacon

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand holding a tortilla chip dipped in creamy Buffalo chicken dip, garnished with slices of green onion.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This Buffalo chicken dip combines bold flavors with simplicity, making it an ideal appetizer or snack for any occasion. Using only five ingredients, it’s a fast and easy dish that still brings a rich, hearty flavor. Great for gatherings or weeknight cravings, this dip is both filling and satisfying. It’s perfect for those moments when you want something warm and flavorful without a lot of steps. Serve with chips or veggies for a crowd-pleasing, stress-free snack.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Sheet Pan Pancakes

A plate of square pancakes drizzled with syrup, next to strawberries and a cup of maple syrup on a white tablecloth.
Sheet Pan Pancakes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These sheet pan pancakes offer a quick, no-fuss way to enjoy breakfast without standing at the stove. With just five ingredients, this recipe delivers fluffy, golden pancakes ready to feed a crowd. It’s perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings when you need something fast but homemade. Minimal prep and cleanup make it an easy option that still feels special. A practical solution for anyone who loves pancakes but wants to save time.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Pancakes

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate.
Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These beef quesadillas come together quickly, offering a filling meal that doesn’t require much time or effort. With just five ingredients, you can create a warm, cheesy dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s a great choice for busy days when you need something satisfying but simple. The melted cheese and seasoned beef make this dish a crowd-pleaser without extra fuss. A straightforward meal that’s ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

A plate of salmon on a white plate with lemon slices on it.
Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This lemon butter sauce for salmon is both fresh and rich, adding flavor without extra ingredients. With just five items needed, it’s an ideal choice for busy nights when you want a homemade meal. The sauce complements salmon beautifully, bringing out its natural flavor. Ready in no time, it’s perfect for a quick and light dinner option. A simple yet flavorful choice for seafood lovers.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Stack of bacon wrapped onion rings.
Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bacon-wrapped onion rings combine smoky bacon with crispy onions in a simple, no-fuss recipe. With only five ingredients, they’re an easy snack or appetizer that’s ready quickly. Perfect for gatherings or family nights, these onion rings are a fun way to mix up traditional snacks. They’re an easy crowd-pleaser without any complex preparation. A unique, straightforward snack that brings bold flavors to the table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Ground Pork Burgers

Close-up of  grilled pork burger patties stacked on a white plate.
Ground Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground pork burgers make for a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Using just five ingredients, these burgers are an ideal choice for weeknights or casual meals. The ground pork adds a rich flavor and keeps the recipe simple without sacrificing taste. Perfect for when you want a filling dish with minimal effort, these burgers can be dressed up with your favorite toppings. Ready quickly, they’re a convenient, flavorful option for any night.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Burgers

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.
Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These baby back ribs are made simple in the air fryer, delivering tender, flavorful meat with minimal prep. With just five ingredients, this recipe brings the taste of slow-cooked ribs in a fraction of the time. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, the air fryer makes it easy to achieve a hearty meal with little cleanup. Enjoy tender ribs without the wait. A practical, flavorful choice when you’re craving BBQ without the time commitment.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Slow Cooker Rice

A spoonful of slow-cooked white rice held above a bowl, with a fresh green parsley leaf in the background.
Slow Cooker Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This slow cooker rice recipe is a straightforward way to prepare fluffy, perfectly cooked rice with ease. Using five ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to save time while ensuring great texture. This method frees up your stovetop, making it convenient for busy meal preparations. Whether as a side dish or part of a main meal, it’s a versatile and dependable recipe. Great for those who appreciate simple, no-fuss cooking.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rice

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Sliced and roasted cabbage wedges seasoned with herbs on a white plate, garnished with black pepper and fresh herbs.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These roasted cabbage steaks provide a simple yet hearty side dish with minimal ingredients. With just five items, it’s an easy recipe that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. The oven brings out a tender texture and slightly sweet flavor in the cabbage, creating a satisfying vegetable option. Ideal for busy nights, these cabbage steaks offer a practical, healthy choice. A quick side dish that’s both unique and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Easy Pickled Red Onions

A bowl of pickled red onions garnished with black peppercorns, placed on a white surface.
Easy Pickled Red Onions. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pickled red onions add a tangy, bright flavor to many dishes, with only five ingredients required. Perfect for adding to sandwiches, tacos, or salads, this recipe is as versatile as it is simple. Ready in minimal time, it’s a great way to elevate meals without a long list of ingredients. Easy to prepare, they bring a fresh, zesty taste that complements a wide range of flavors. A convenient, quick addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pickled Red Onions

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Broccoli salad with bacon bits on a white oval plate, accompanied by a wooden serving spoon on a linen napkin.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This broccoli salad combines crunchy broccoli with smoky bacon for a simple, flavorful dish. With only five ingredients, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days or gatherings. Perfect as a side or light meal, the mix of fresh and savory flavors is both satisfying and easy. Ready in minutes, this salad offers a great way to enjoy veggies without fuss. A quick, tasty side dish that’s perfect for a variety of occasions.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background.
Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These maple-glazed carrots come out tender and sweet in the air fryer, offering a warm side dish in little time. With only five ingredients, it’s a straightforward recipe that brings out the carrots’ natural sweetness. Ideal for weeknights or holiday meals, these carrots make a versatile side that’s easy to prepare. The air fryer makes cooking faster, leaving you with minimal cleanup. A practical, flavorful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Mini Frittata

A fork holding a bite of mini frittata with ham and broccoli, with the dish in the background.
Mini Frittata. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These mini frittatas provide a protein-packed meal or snack that’s quick and convenient. Using only five ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for breakfast on the go. The recipe allows for versatility with added flavors, making it suitable for various tastes. Ready in minutes, they’re ideal for busy mornings or a light lunch. A simple, nutritious choice for those who want a no-fuss meal.
Get the Recipe: Mini Frittata

Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Two halves of baked sweet potato topped with butter and garnished with herbs on a white plate, with a red checkered napkin on the side.
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer sweet potatoes offer a quick and easy side dish that’s warm and naturally sweet. With just five ingredients, they’re a great way to enjoy sweet potatoes without long prep. The air fryer method creates a tender interior with a lightly crispy exterior, perfect for pairing with main dishes. Ready in minutes, it’s a practical side that works for any meal. A simple recipe that adds variety to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage on white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon-wrapped cabbage is a unique, savory dish that brings flavor with minimal ingredients. Using only five items, this air fryer recipe is perfect for quick dinners or snacks. The bacon adds a smoky taste that enhances the cabbage’s mild flavor, creating a balanced and hearty dish. Easy to prepare, it’s a time-saving option for those craving something a bit different. A practical, flavorful choice for cabbage lovers.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

A plate of pork chops stuffed with mushrooms and cheese served with green beans.
Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These baked stuffed pork chops are a simple, hearty option with only five ingredients. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this recipe offers a flavorful, filling main dish without extensive prep. The stuffing adds depth, making this an impressive dish that doesn’t take much time to prepare. Perfect for when you want something comforting but easy. Ready quickly, it’s a practical meal for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

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