If you’re looking for easy meals because you’re not exactly thrilled about the prospect of cooking, you’ve come to the right place. These 21 simple recipes are great for anyone who wants to spend less time in the kitchen and more time doing anything else. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or those moments when you just can’t be bothered with complicated steps and a long list of ingredients.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
For those who prefer to spend minimal time in the kitchen, the Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a dream. Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. You’ll end up with a comforting soup that’s ready to enjoy whenever you are, plus plenty of leftovers. This recipe is proof that great meals don’t require constant attention. Freeze any leftovers for a quick and easy meal on busy days.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Cabbage and Sausage
If you’re not exactly thrilled about cooking tonight, this cabbage and sausage skillet could be a game changer. You’re looking at chopping stuff, tossing it in a pan, and 25 minutes later, you’ve got dinner. Mix it up with different sausages if you’re feeling adventurous. Throw in a salad or serve it over rice, and you’ve nailed dinner with barely any effort. And if you end up making too much, it reheats well for lunch the next day, so nothing goes to waste.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
This Shake and Bake Pork Chops recipe couldn’t be easier to make. You’ll just coat the pork chops with mayo and shake them in a bag with breadcrumbs and seasoning. You’ll get flavorful, crispy pork chops without frying — all in 25 minutes. Perfect for a lazy dinner, this recipe is a family favorite that is extra easy to make and a great choice for beginner cooks or anyone who just wants to get a good meal on the table fast.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
These garlic butter chicken bites are a lifesaver on those “I can’t even” kind of nights. All you need is a few ingredients like chicken, butter, garlic, and 20 minutes. Whether you go for veggies or rice on the side, you’re set with a solid meal. Switch up the spices whenever you want something new. And hey, put out some toothpicks and dipping sauce, and suddenly it’s a laid-back dinner party. Leftovers? They’re great cold or warmed up, making them perfect for a quick snack or part of your lunch.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
This one-pan wonder might just change your mind when you hate cooking. Toss sausages and your favorite veggies on a pan, season, and let the oven do its thing. You end up with a great meal and the cleanup? A breeze. Add whatever veggies you love, maybe even throw in Brussels sprouts for a health kick. Serve it with some bread, and dinner is super straightforward. Plus, it’s just as good the next day, so feel free to double up and have your meal prep sorted for tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Bell peppers, ground meat, rice, and cheese come together and are baked for a no-nonsense, hearty meal. It’s perfect for when you want something good but don’t want to be stuck cooking all evening. A side of creamy cucumber salad can round it out nicely. Plus, one dollop of sour cream on top before serving? It brings everything together. This casserole keeps really well in the fridge, so you’ll have dinner all set for tomorrow, too.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
The Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole comes together fast using pantry staples like egg noodles, canned tuna, and cheddar cheese, making cooking a breeze. Just mix, bake, and enjoy. Plus, you’ll have leftovers for the next day. Pair it with a green salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal. It’s all about simplicity and giving you time to unwind. The casserole also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Crock Pot Taco Soup
Turn to the Crock Pot Taco Soup when you’re unsure what to make. With a quick 20-minute setup and simple ingredients like ground beef and cream cheese, it’s an effortlessly low-carb and gluten-free option. It’s the best choice for a laid-back meal that you can tweak to your taste. Finish it with some shredded cheese and sour cream for an extra touch. And for those who aren’t concerned with carb content, tossing in black beans or corn is a great option.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup
Chicken Tortellini Soup
If the thought of cooking tonight is making you groan, let this chicken tortellini soup be your hero. Everything goes into one pot, and it’s done in 40 minutes. It’s comforting, filling, and just what you need after a long day. Serve it with some bread or croutons, and you’ve got yourself a meal that proves cooking can be more chill than chore. Not to mention, it freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy a hassle-free dinner any time you’re not up for cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Creamy Garlic Chicken
If you want something fancy without the hassle, the Creamy Garlic Chicken is ready in just 30 minutes with one pan. With basic ingredients like chicken, garlic, cream, and Parmesan, you’ll have a dish that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day. Serve it over pasta or rice, and feel free to add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. Leftovers keep well in the fridge and taste just as great the next day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken
Spinach Chicken Bake
The Spinach Chicken Bake is the ultimate easy meal. It combines protein-rich chicken with spinach and cheese for a meal that’s ready in 30 minutes. It’s low in carbs and high in flavor, making it a great option for anyone watching their carb intake. You can easily add more variety by swapping spinach for kale or adding artichokes. Served with garlic bread, this recipe is always a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Dive into an easy dinner with the Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole, a creamy and cheesy dish that includes bacon and is ready in 30 minutes. It’s perfect for adding a bit of comfort to your meal while keeping things on the healthier side. This casserole is a top choice for a hearty meal without much work, giving you extra time to kick back. Serving it with a crisp green salad complements the creaminess splendidly. And if you’re looking to shake things up, try mixing in various veggies or adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
White Bean Soup
If you are not a fan of cooking, then let this White Bean Soup turn that around for you. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that you can whip up in just 40 minutes. Good for getting those veggies and fiber in without any extra hassle. Make things even easier by using store-bought pre-cut veggies. Feel free to throw in different vegetables for some variation or to use up what you have in the fridge. For a perfect finishing touch, serve it hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a slice of crusty bread on the side.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup
Fajita Baked Chicken
Get ready for the Fajita Baked Chicken, a dish that promises big flavor with minimal effort. In just 30 minutes, you can have seasoned chicken, cream cheese, and sweet peppers covered in melted mozzarella. It’s the stress-free solution for busy evenings that doesn’t skimp on taste. Feel free to switch up the veggies to keep things interesting. Serve with a side of rice or tortillas to turn this dish into a complete meal. If you’re in the mood for a change, beef strips or shrimp are excellent substitutes for the chicken.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken
Broccoli Casserole
The Broccoli Casserole is your fast track to a veggie-filled meal that’s ready in about 50 minutes. Combining broccoli, cheese, and simple pantry items, this dish is straightforward and doesn’t take much effort in the kitchen. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner that’s both nutritious and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Whip up some Fried Cabbage with Bacon for a savory, one-pan meal that comes together in roughly 25 minutes. It’s a great choice for those busy nights, a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. Enjoy it as is for an appetizing meal, or pair it with mashed potatoes for even more comfort. It’s an excellent way to get a delicious dinner on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Chicken Corn Soup
Whip up a pot of Chicken Corn Soup in under an hour for a comforting and creamy experience. It’s made with simple ingredients like chicken, corn, and assorted veggies, ensuring an easy cooking and cleanup process. Serving it with a piece of crusty bread transforms this into a filling meal best for cool nights. Feel free to add potatoes or switch up the vegetables to suit your taste. This soup is the definition of cozy comfort, straightforward and utterly filling. Perfect for anyone looking to minimize kitchen time while still enjoying a homemade meal that heartens the body.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup
Italian Sausage Soup
Looking for a quick, comforting meal that doesn’t take much effort? Try making Italian Sausage Soup. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and is packed with flavors that’ll make you feel cozy. You just need Italian sausage, cream cheese, tomatoes, and a little cream to create a rich, hearty soup. Toss in a slice of garlic bread, and you’re all set. Throw in some spinach or kale. If you’re looking to cut back on calories, go for turkey sausage instead. It’s a great choice for those nights when you don’t want to spend ages cooking or hunting for fancy ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Speed through making dinner with the Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal that combines cheddar, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms. It’s a great pick for those busy weeknights and goes perfectly with a simple side salad. Mix in your favorite spices or a dash of red wine to give it your own twist.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
This Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is your answer to a hearty, easy-to-make meal that’s ready in 30 minutes. This one-skillet dish is comforting and lets you switch up the veggies as you like. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a good meal but don’t want to deal with a big cleanup. It’s a great help for busy folks who need a quick dinner option and want to spend more time eating and less time washing dishes.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
Make the Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup in just about an hour. It’s a one-pot meal, so you won’t have a pile of dishes to clean. It’s a great choice for when you want something cozy. You can also change up the spices however you like. This soup is perfect for getting more veggies into your meals without a lot of work.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup