27 easy recipes because your to-do list isn’t getting shorter

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Easy recipes are like that friend who always shows up on time — exactly what you need when your to-do list is plotting against you. When there are only so many hours a day, dinner shouldn’t feel like a full-blown project. These are the kinds of recipes that keep things simple without making you feel like you’re cutting corners.

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When time’s tight and you need something quick, Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a great go-to. Toss sausage with fresh veggies like zucchini, broccoli, and bell peppers, and bake everything together in a single pan. Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is as simple as it gets. It’s a way to pack your dinner with flavor and nutrition while avoiding extra dishes. This dish fits perfectly into a busy schedule and lets you focus on the rest of your day.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Reuben Bowls

A bowl of coleslaw with creamy dressing, garnished with green onions, served in a ceramic bowl with a fork.
Reuben Bowls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Reuben Bowls brings the classic sandwich flavors into a simple, mess-free meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes. It’s made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and coleslaw. Whether it’s dinner for one or a quick family meal, this bowl keeps things straightforward and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Bowls

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole makes dinner manageable on those nights when you just can’t deal with anything complicated. Combining noodles, canned tuna, peas, and breadcrumbs, this dish comes together in under an hour using pantry staples. Make a hearty meal without an extra grocery run or much effort. When juggling too much, it fills the gap between wanting something comforting and having the time to cook.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Close-up of a creamy pasta salad sprinkled with paprika and garnished with chopped herbs in a white bowl.
Tuna Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuna Macaroni Salad is a lifesaver when the day’s been hectic, and the last thing you want is to cook. Made with elbow macaroni, canned tuna, mayo, and mustard, it’s ready in 40 minutes. This dish is great for warmer days or any time you’re short on energy and need something light but filling. Prep ahead or throw together on the spot; it’s a no-pressure way to quickly get dinner on the table.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Macaroni Salad

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are great for nights when time is tight, but you still want something hearty. Bite-sized pieces of chicken are seared to perfection and tossed in a buttery garlic sauce that’s simple and flavorful. In just about 20 minutes, you’ll have a meal that goes well with a side of veggies or salad. It’s a stress-free way to get dinner on the table and a great option when your day has been full.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a quick way to pack in some veggies without making dinner feel like a chore. Broccoli and cauliflower are mixed with cheese and bacon and baked until it’s all melted. This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy nights when you’re looking for balance without much effort. It’s comforting, simple, and works well as a side or even the star of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When your schedule is packed, this casserole is a lifesaver. Ready in about 45 minutes, it combines shredded chicken, corn, and crispy tater tots layered with melted cheese and green onions. It’s filling, comforting, and easy to pull together with minimal effort. Everything you need is in one pan — protein, veggies, and a little crunch — so you can skip the sides. This casserole is a meal the whole family will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Baked Ravioli

A baked cheese dish with a spoon, garnished with herbs in a white ceramic dish.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Ravioli is your answer to those packed days when cooking feels impossible. Frozen ravioli, marinara sauce, and loads of cheese come together in a single dish you just layer and bake. In about an hour, you’ll have a hearty, cheesy meal that feels homemade without much effort. The minimal prep means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled chicken pieces with a glossy glaze, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate.
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Grilled Hot Honey Chicken recipe keeps things simple while delivering bold flavor. Marinated in a sweet and spicy honey glaze, it’s ready in just 45 minutes. It’s perfect for nights when your to-do list won’t quit, but you still want something that feels thoughtful. Pair it with grilled veggies or a salad for an easy, well-rounded meal. It’s quick and keeps dinner stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Big Mac Salad

A person holding serving spoons in a bowl of Big Mac salad.
Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For days when you need a quick dinner that feels fresh but still comforting, this Big Mac Salad has you covered. Ground beef, cheddar, pickles, onions, and a tangy sauce combine with crisp lettuce to give you burger flavors without the extra heaviness. It’s ready in no time and filling enough to keep you going. This salad is an easy way to make sure dinner fits into your hectic schedule.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When your day has been nonstop, this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole makes dinner easy and stress-free. Ground beef, rice, bell peppers, and cheese come together in a single pan and baked to perfection. In about 45 minutes, you get all the flavors of stuffed peppers without the extra work. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for those hectic nights.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A fresh Caesar salad with chicken, croutons, tomatoes, and dressing, served in a large white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is your answer to a busy evening. With pre-cooked chicken, pasta, and Caesar dressing, you can have a fresh, filling meal ready in just 25 minutes. Add some extra veggies to customize it, or prep it ahead of time for a ready-to-go lunch the next day. Whether it’s a last-minute meal or part of your weekly meal prep, this salad makes life simpler and balanced.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Spinach Chicken Bake keeps things simple when life feels overwhelming. With just chicken, spinach, and cream cheese, it comes together in 30 minutes for a hearty meal without being complicated. It’s for nights when you don’t have the energy for a lot of prep but still want something that feels thoughtful. With minimal ingredients and steps, this dish keeps things manageable and low-stress.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Two shake and bake pork chops on a plate.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you’re short on time but still want dinner on the table, these Shake and Bake Pork Chops are a great solution. Coat them with mayo and seasoned breadcrumbs, bake them, and they’re ready in just 25 minutes. Serve with a side of veggies or a salad for a quick, balanced meal. This recipe is for those evenings when everything feels like too much, but you still need a solid dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice

Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice is a great way to handle dinner without stress when life gets busy. Ready in about 30 minutes, it combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheese into a comforting meal that’s easy to pull together. It’s filling and has a balance of protein and veggies to keep you going. This dish keeps dinner simple and helps you focus on what matters most. Cleanup is also quick, giving you a little more breathing room.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cabbage and Sausage recipe is here for you when your day feels packed. It’s quick, easy, and done in one pan. The sausage brings bold flavor, while the cabbage adds freshness and texture. Whether you serve it on its own or alongside rice or potatoes, it’s a delicious meal that doesn’t add to your workload. Cleanup is minimal, too. It’s a budget-friendly dinner option made to support your busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Italian Sausage Soup is an option for busy nights when cooking feels like a chore. Ready in about 30 minutes, it combines sausage, tomatoes, onions, and broth in one pot for a hearty and comforting meal. This soup makes dinnertime a little less stressful with easy cleanup and simple ingredients. Whether you enjoy it with bread or on its own, it’s a meal that helps you recharge without taking up too much of your evening.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A crock pot of taco soup.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Crock Pot Taco Soup is your answer to hectic days when you need dinner to take care of itself. Toss ground beef, onions, cream cheese, and spices into the slow cooker, and by dinnertime, you’ve got a flavorful, hearty meal waiting for you. It’s for nights when the last thing you want to do is spend time in the kitchen. Serve it with tortilla chips, or enjoy it as is.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is a quick, no-cook option for when you’re juggling a long to-do list. It’s made with chicken, bacon, jalapeños, and cream cheese for bold flavors in a simple dish that comes together fast. It’s fresh and filling without being heavy and great for busy lunches or dinners. You can serve it with lettuce wraps and crackers, or enjoy it as is. This salad saves you time and effort, even on your busiest days.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

White Bean Soup

A bowl of white bean soup with carrots and croutons.
White Bean Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

White Bean Soup is a kind choice for nights when cooking feels like too much. It’s made with beans, carrots, celery, and a light broth, all simmered together. Dinner is served in about 40 minutes. Everything cooks in one pot, which makes cleanup quick and easy. Whether served with bread or enjoyed on its own, this soup is simple and manageable after a long day.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is perfect for nights when you need dinner to come together quickly. In just 30 minutes, ground beef, mushrooms, cauliflower rice, and cheddar create a hearty one-pan meal that’s filling without being complicated. Cleanup is simple, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time unwinding. Whether you eat it as is or pair it with a salad, this dish fits seamlessly into your busy evening.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a great way to bring some calm to a hectic evening. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish combines tender chicken and garlic with a creamy sauce that feels comforting and easy. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and pairs nicely with veggies or bread. It’s what you need for a quick dinner that still feels like a proper meal and gives you a little time to breathe.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tortellini Soup is perfect for nights when your day has been nonstop, but you still want a homemade meal. With tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a light yet filling broth, this soup is ready in 40 minutes and feels like it’s been simmering for hours. It’s a great one-pot meal that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor or comfort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fajita Baked Chicken is a great option when your day has been full, and you need something easy for dinner. Juicy chicken, sweet peppers, and gooey mozzarella are baked together in one pan, making prep and cleanup simple. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a reliable choice when juggling too much but still want a meal that feels like effort was made. Pair with rice or tortillas for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Broccoli Casserole is a great pick for busy nights when you need something hearty and simple. This dish combines tender broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce and a crunchy topping, all baked to perfection in under an hour. It works well as a standalone meal or a side dish, making it helpful when you need flexibility. Perfect for when you’re short on time but want something that feels like real comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow cooker split pea soup in a slow cooker with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a lifesaver on days when you have too much going on. Add peas, ham, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a hearty soup ready to serve. The ham adds great flavor, and the peas create a thick, filling texture. Perfect for when you need a hands-off meal that’s waiting for you after a long day. Serve with bread for an easy side.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Canned Chicken Patties are perfect for nights when you’re short on energy but still want something homemade. Ready in 20 minutes, these patties combine canned chicken, eggs, Parmesan, and almond flour for a simple, crispy meal. They’re light yet filling and pair well with a salad or veggies. A great choice for busy days when you need dinner to come together quickly without turning to takeout.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

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