23 flavorful dishes that are quicker than takeout

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In our busy lives, finding time to cook can be a challenge. But who says quick meals can’t be bursting with flavor? We’ve got 23 dishes that are quicker than takeout and still deliver that mouthwatering taste you crave. So why settle for average takeout when you can whip up a delicious meal in minutes?

A white plate with Montreal smoked meat hash on it.
Montreal Smoked Meat Hash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Two pulled pork eggs benedict on a plate with sauce.
Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Start your day off right with Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict, a quick and satisfying breakfast dish that’s bursting with flavor. Imagine tender pulled pork, poached eggs, and creamy hollandaise sauce atop crispy English muffins – each bite is a taste sensation that’ll have you licking your plate clean. Say goodbye to boring breakfasts and hello to homemade deliciousness in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

An  winter vanilla thyme vanilla paloma mocktailwith a sprig of thyme.
Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Shake up your evening routine with a Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma, a cocktail that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful. Infused with the warmth of vanilla and thyme, this drink offers a cozy twist on traditional libations, and it’s quicker to make than waiting for takeout delivery. With each sip, you’ll feel like you’re indulging in a fancy cocktail lounge experience, all from the comfort of your own home.
Get the Recipe: Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Take your taste buds on a trip to the streets of Mexico with Mexican Street Corn Salad, a vibrant dish that’s quicker and more flavorful than your average takeout order. Skip the wait and whip up this easy salad for a taste of street food right in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transport yourself to the shores of the Mediterranean with Mediterranean Cod, a dish that’s quicker and more flavorful than any takeout seafood option. Say goodbye to long delivery waits and hello to homemade deliciousness in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Turkey & Apple Panini

Turkey & Apple Panini stacked on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Panini. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Forget boring sandwiches; it’s time to upgrade to Turkey & Apple Panini, a lunchtime favorite that’s quicker and more flavorful than takeout. Picture tender turkey, crisp apples, and gooey cheese pressed between slices of bread and grilled to perfection – each bite is a symphony of flavors that’ll have you wondering why you ever settled for store-bought sandwiches. Say hello to lunchtime perfection in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Arroz Verde

Arroz Verde rice in a black pan with tomatoes and herbs.
Arroz Verde. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Close your eyes and think the vibrant hues of Arroz Verde, each grain of rice infused with the fresh flavors of cilantro and green chilies. This isn’t your average rice dish; it’s a burst of Mexican-inspired goodness that’s quicker and more flavorful than your go-to takeout order. Skip the wait and savor every bite of this homemade comfort food that brings a touch of fiesta to your table in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde

Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

An image of Tex-Mex Caesar Salad on a square plate.
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Give your Caesar salad a Tex-Mex twist with Tex-Mex Caesar Salad, a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.= Say goodbye to boring salads and hello to homemade deliciousness in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Shrimp Scampi on a bed of rice in a black oval dish.
Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A plate piled high with plump shrimp bathed in a garlic-infused butter sauce – that’s what you get with Garlic Shrimp Scampi, a dish that’s quicker and more flavorful than any takeout option. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, and you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Montreal Smoked Meat Hash

A white plate with Montreal smoked meat hash on it.
Montreal Smoked Meat Hash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Picture this: a sizzling skillet filled with the savory goodness of Montreal smoked meat hash, crispy potatoes, and onions all mingling together. It’s not just any breakfast; it’s a flavorful wake-up call that beats waiting for takeout any day.
Get the Recipe: Montreal Smoked Meat Hash

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Tinga Tostada on a plate.
Chicken Tinga Tostadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your dinner routine with Chicken Tinga Tostadas, a dish that’s quicker and more flavorful than any takeout option. Picture tender shredded chicken simmered in a smoky chipotle tomato sauce, piled high on crispy tortillas – each bite is a fiesta of flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

A plate of Prosciutto & Parmesan Puff Pastry pinwheels.
Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress your guests with Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels, a quick and elegant appetizer that’s bursting with flavor. Imagine flaky pastries filled with creamy cheese, savory prosciutto, and aromatic herbs – each bite is a taste sensation that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black bowl with forks nearby.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a refreshing twist on classic pasta salad with Salmon Pasta Salad, a quick and satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor. Picture tender salmon, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing – each bite is a taste sensation that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Say goodbye to boring salads and hello to homemade deliciousness in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Chocolate Caramel Cookies.
Chocolate Caramel Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge your sweet tooth with Chocolate Caramel Cookies, a quick and easy treat that’s bursting with flavor. Imagine rich cocoa dough studded with gooey caramel pieces – each bite is pure bliss. Say hello to cookie perfection without the wait for takeout.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Guacamole Snack Board

A top-down shot of a guacamole snack board.
Guacamole Snack Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Create the ultimate snack experience with Guacamole Snack Board, a quick and flavorful alternative to traditional takeout starters. Imagine creamy avocado dip alongside an array of tasty dippers – each bite is a party for your taste buds. Skip the store-bought snacks and opt for homemade deliciousness that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Snack Board

Fried Tomatillos

Fried Tomatillos in a black cast iron pan.
Fried Tomatillos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a zesty kick to your meal with Fried Tomatillos, a quick and flavorful alternative to traditional takeout appetizers. Imagine tangy green tomatoes coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust – each bite is a burst of flavor that’ll have you reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Toss together a vibrant Pesto Orzo Salad, a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. Picture tender pasta coated in fragrant basil pesto, tossed with juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella – each bite is a taste sensation that’ll have you reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a delicious twist on classic pizza with Ham & Asparagus Pizza, a quick and flavorful alternative to takeout. Imagine savory ham, tender asparagus spears, and gooey cheese atop a crispy crust – each bite is a taste sensation that’ll have you reaching for another slice.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Ribs with bourbon BBQ sauce on a white plate.
Bourbon BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrade your barbecue game with homemade Bourbon BBQ Sauce, a quick and flavorful alternative to store-bought options. Imagine the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors – each bite is a taste sensation that’ll have you licking your fingers. Say goodbye to bland sauces and hello to homemade deliciousness that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

A plate of asparagus with mascarpone and lemon.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone, a quick and elegant recipe that’s bursting with flavor. Tender asparagus drizzled with creamy mascarpone cheese and a hint of lemon zest – each bite is a taste sensation that’ll have you coming back for more. Say goodbye to boring sides and hello to homemade deliciousness in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Shrimp Scampi Pizza

A pizza with shrimp and cheese on top.
Shrimp Scampi Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Can’t decide between shrimp scampi and pizza? Why not have both with Shrimp Scampi Pizza – a quick and flavorful alternative to traditional takeout. Picture a crispy crust topped with garlicky shrimp, lemon zest, and fresh parsley – each bite is a taste sensation that’ll have you reaching for another slice in no time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza

Chimichurri Sauce

Sliced Grilled Hanger Steak with Chimichurri on a white plate.
Chimichurri Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a burst of flavor to your meals with Chimichurri Sauce, a quick and versatile condiment that’s perfect for any dish. Imagine fresh herbs, garlic, and tangy vinegar – each bite is a taste sensation that’ll have you drizzling it over everything. Say goodbye to bland sauces and hello to homemade deliciousness that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Chimichurri Sauce

Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Three pork chops with tomato and green onion on a white plate.
Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who needs takeout when you can whip up succulent pork chops topped with tangy tomato and green onion relish in no time? With each bite, you’ll savor the juicy goodness and wonder why you ever considered calling for takeout when you can create such a delicious meal at home in a fraction of the time.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving comfort food? Look no further than Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta, a dish that’s as quick to make as it is satisfying. With savory Italian sausage, tender broccoli rabe, and perfectly cooked pasta, this meal beats takeout any day of the week. Skip the delivery wait and enjoy a homemade dinner that’s bursting with flavor and ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

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