17 easy meals that don’t require a culinary degree (or even pants)

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Cooking doesn’t have to be a big deal or require a fancy setup. Sometimes, you just want to whip up something quick and easy without digging through a complicated recipe or dressing up. That’s where simple meals come in handy, especially when you’re not in the mood to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s all about making life easier and keeping things laid-back in your cooking routine. For those times, 17 easy meals don’t require a culinary degree—or even pants!

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamy Low-Carb Chicken Marsala

A plate of chicken marsala with chopped green onions.
Creamy Low-Carb Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For those following a low-carb lifestyle, missing out on rich, comforting dishes is a thing of the past. Creamy Low-Carb Chicken Marsala proves that you can have your creamy sauce and eat it too, without the carb overload. It’s a satisfying, flavorful dish that won’t mess with your macros. So go ahead, indulge in a little bit of creamy goodness tonight. This recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Low-Carb Chicken Marsala

Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

A plate of Thai pork & Green beans with rice, topped with a fried egg, served with chopsticks on the side.
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Let’s turn up the heat with a dish that’s bursting with flavors from Thailand. Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle brings the streets of Bangkok to your backyard. It’s all about that charred, smoky goodness paired with the fresh crunch of green beans. Fire up your griddle and get ready for a lively meal that’s as fun to cook as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

In the mood for something light, refreshing, and full of diverse textures? Chinese Chicken Salad is your go-to. It’s a fantastic way to turn simple ingredients into a salad that’s anything but boring. With its blend of flavors and satisfying crunch, it’s a surefire way to brighten up any meal. This salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or a nutritious family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

There’s something about grilling that just screams summer and good vibes. Throwing some steaks on the grill and slathering them with Cowboy Butter just takes things to a whole new level of awesome. It’s all about those moments when the scent of grilling meat wafts through the air, getting everyone excited about the meal to come. This way of making steaks is not just about feeding hunger; it’s an entire experience wrapped up in the smoky flavors of the grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re in the mood for something with a bit of tang and a whole lot of flavor, Chicken Piccata is the way to go. This dish is a total crowd-pleaser, thanks to its beautifully balanced flavors that marry the tanginess of lemons with the briny pop of capers. It’s remarkably simple to whip up, even on a busy weeknight, making it a go-to recipe for many. Not only does it taste great on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a side of your choice, from pasta to a crisp salad.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Everyone loves a good, hearty meal, and the Beefy John Wayne Casserole brings that in spades. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for when you need something to warm you up and fill you up. This casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners or potlucks. What really sets it apart is its layers of flavors and textures that come together in perfect harmony.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a clever way to use up leftover turkey? Turkey à la King has got you covered. This creamy, comforting dish is a breeze to prepare and can transform your leftovers into something truly special. It’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even toast, depending on what you’re in the mood for. Not only will it satiate your hunger, but it’ll also bring a cozy vibe to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re craving something that feels like pure comfort, there’s nothing quite like throwing everything onto a single sheet and letting the oven do all the work. Midway through, the familiar and aromatic blend of lemon and rosemary fills the air, signaling that Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is almost ready to be devoured. It’s the kind of dinner that requires minimal cleanup but delivers maximum taste, making your evening routine a bit more relaxed.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of Mexican carne molida with lime wedges served on a wooden table with a striped cloth on the side.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those days when you’re craving something with a bit of a kick and overflowing with flavor, there’s always a go-to that never disappoints. Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef takes the stage as a versatile superstar in your culinary lineup. It’s seriously simple to whip up and can transform into the backbone of countless meals, from tacos to casseroles. The real magic happens when the spices meld together, creating that authentic taste we all love.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re in the mood for something truly comforting, why not give Roast Pork with Apples a try? This dish is a wonderful combination of savory and slightly sweet, making each bite a real treat. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner with family or any day you want something a bit special without too much effort. The aroma itself is enough to make your mouth water, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere in your home. What’s more, it’s pretty straightforward to prepare, ensuring that you get to enjoy more time at the table with loved ones, savoring every moment and every bite.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Pizza Pasta Salad

A platter of pizza pasta salad served on a white rectangular dish.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Imagine a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, one that kids and adults alike will look forward to. Pizza Pasta Salad merges two favorites into one incredibly easy-to-make meal that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for those lazy days when you want something quick yet utterly satisfying. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic or needing a substantial side that steals the spotlight, this salad has got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp served on a white rectangular dish.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Sometimes, you just need a little bit of indulgence, and recreating favorite restaurant dishes at home can be the perfect treat. Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp brings the flavors of a beloved fast-food chain right to your kitchen. The beauty of making it yourself is the joy of sitting down to a dish that’s both sweet and savory, made exactly to your liking. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you that homemade doesn’t have to mean pure simplicity; it can be decadently delicious too.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A hand holding a fork over a bowl of Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka on a wooden table.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Ever wonder how to make that irresistible rigatoni from Il Fornaio? Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka is your ticket to achieving that same rich, satisfying taste at home. It’s the kind of meal that makes a regular evening feel like a special occasion. Gather around the table and watch this dish disappear in no time; it’s that good. Whether it’s date night or family dinner, this pasta is sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s creamy, dreamy seafood pasta, you’re in luck. With Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo, you can recreate that restaurant magic right at your own dinner table. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something a little fancy but don’t want to leave the house. This dish has got all the comfort and flavor you’re craving. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a special meal tonight?
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding a cut steak quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Don’t let those steak leftovers go to waste. Transform them into something extraordinary with a Leftover Steak Quesadilla. It’s an easy, cheesy way to give yesterday’s steak a delicious makeover. You’ll be amazed at how a simple quesadilla can turn into a crave-worthy meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for something that’s both refreshing and satisfying, look no further than this Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. It’s a no-fuss meal that can be enjoyed either warm or chilled, making it perfect for any season. With every bite, you’ll get the feel of a seaside Mediterranean eatery right in your own home. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a light lunch but substantial enough to serve as the main course at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Croquettes on a white plate with tomatoes and broccoli.
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Ready to jazz up your meal routine with something new? Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes are here to break the monotony. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and just plain fun to eat. This dish is a great way to bring the family together for a hands-on dinner experience. Plus, it’s a neat way to try a popular meal kit recipe without the subscription.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

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