Hustle in the kitchen: 17 quick recipes for busy days

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When life gets busy, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where these 17 quick recipes come to the rescue. So, if your days are running at full speed, these recipes ensure mealtime is a breeze. You’ll have dinner on the table in no time, with meals that taste like you spent all day cooking—when really, you were just mastering the art of kitchen speed!

A white bowl with Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin in it.
Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Chicken casserole with baked cheese inside a white dish.
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Imagine coming home to a warm, inviting dish that takes minimal effort to prepare. Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole is just that—a quick, comforting option that’s perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but crave something hearty. This dish is ideal for both family dinners and when you need a fulfilling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Low Carb Chocolate Roulade

Low Carb Chocolate Roulade on a dark plates with roses around.
Low Carb Chocolate Roulade. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

For those who love a sweet treat without the carb count, Low Carb Chocolate Roulade is a dream come true. It’s quick to whip up and even quicker to disappear from the plate. This dessert offers a rich, decadent flavor that makes it hard to believe it’s low in carbs. It’s perfect for a sophisticated finish to any meal, especially when time is tight.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Chocolate Roulade

Blueberry Oatmeal Smoothie

A glass of blueberry oatmeal smoothie on a counter.
Blueberry Oatmeal Smoothie. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Start your morning with a quick blend that’s both nutritious and delicious. Blueberry Oatmeal Smoothie is a fantastic breakfast for anyone on the go. It’s packed with flavors that wake you up and keep you going through your busy morning. This smoothie is a great way to get a wholesome start to your day with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Oatmeal Smoothie

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels

Puff pastry pinwheels on a round wooden cutting board.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels offer a spicy twist to your snack time, combining convenience with bold flavors. They’re quick to assemble and even quicker to be devoured, making them perfect for last-minute guests or a speedy snack for your evening unwind. This snack is sure to be a hit at any gathering, adding a fiery kick to your serving tray.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels

Cucumber Kimchi

Cucumber kimchi on a white plate with a pair of chopsticks lifting a slice of cucumber.
Cucumber Kimchi. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a fresh take on a traditional side, Cucumber Kimchi is an excellent choice. It’s quick to prepare, refreshing, and full of flavor, making it a great addition to any meal needing a little extra kick. This dish is ideal for those looking to add a quick, flavorful boost to their meals without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Kimchi

Blackened Mahi Mahi

Blackened mahi mahi over white rice.
Blackened Mahi Mahi. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

When you need a fast yet flavorful dinner, Blackened Mahi Mahi fits the bill perfectly. This dish is simple to make and packs a punch of flavor, making it a favorite for those busy weeknights. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a meal that’s both quick to prepare and delicious. It’s a reliable go-to for a busy day’s meal solution.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Mahi Mahi

7 Layer Salad

A salad bowl filled with vegetables and peas.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to make, 7 Layer Salad is your answer. It’s a vibrant and colorful addition to any meal, perfect for gatherings where time is of the essence but you still want to impress. This salad layers simple yet delicious elements, making it a standout dish that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

Closeup of fingerling potatoes roasted in air fryer coated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and thyme dressing.
Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes are a quick and easy side dish that complements any main course beautifully. They cook up in no time in the air fryer, offering a crispy outside with a tender inside. This dish is perfect for those nights when you need a side that doesn’t require much effort. It’s a straightforward way to add a touch of gourmet to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

Beef & Broccoli

Square plate with ground beef and broccoli along with chopsticks.
Beef & Broccoli. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

When time is tight but you need a dish that’s both quick and nourishing, Beef & Broccoli is the way to go. It’s a classic dish known for its speedy preparation and robust flavors. Perfect for a no-fuss dinner, it provides a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This dish ensures you can still enjoy a delicious and balanced meal, even on your busiest days.
Get the Recipe: Beef & Broccoli

Easy Dairy-Free Waffles

Easy waffle recipe with no milk stack on blue plate.
Easy Dairy-Free Waffles. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Who says quick mornings can’t be special? Easy Dairy-Free Waffles are here to prove that a fast breakfast can still feel indulgent. These waffles come together in a snap, perfect for those who want to enjoy a little morning luxury without the usual fuss. They’re just the thing to brighten up any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Easy Dairy-Free Waffles

Arroz Verde

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

Arroz Verde is a vibrant and simple side dish that adds a splash of color to any meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal companion on those busy evenings when time is of the essence. This dish is a foolproof way to bring a little extra flair to your dinner table without any extra stress. Serve it alongside your favorite protein.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde

Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Breadsticks

A wooden cutting board with pepperoni breadsticks and dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Breadsticks. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

When you need a snack that doubles as a crowd-pleaser, Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Breadsticks are your go-to. They’re quick to make and even quicker to disappear. Ideal for game nights or as a fun side dish, these breadsticks deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Just pop them in the air fryer and you’re all set.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Breadsticks

Cabbage and Sausage Alfredo

A picture of cabbage sausage white plate wooden fork.
Cabbage and Sausage Alfredo. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

On a chilly evening, Cabbage and Sausage Alfredo is a comforting dish that comes together quickly. It’s hearty and fulfilling, making it a perfect choice for a last-minute dinner. This dish combines flavors in a way that feels both familiar and surprisingly fresh. It’s a straightforward meal that’s big on taste and short on prep time.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage Alfredo

Fresh Squeezed Lemonade

Fresh squeezed lemonade with straw in mason jar.
Fresh Squeezed Lemonade. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Nothing beats the simplicity and refreshing taste of Fresh Squeezed Lemonade on a warm day. This classic drink is a breeze to whip up, offering a burst of sunshine in a glass. It’s perfect for cooling down or for sipping during a busy afternoon. Just a few quick steps, and you have the ideal beverage for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Squeezed Lemonade

Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Cinnamon pancakes topped with cooked diced apples.
Apple Cinnamon Pancakes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Start your morning with the comforting aroma of Apple Cinnamon Pancakes. This recipe is a quick way to make any breakfast feel special without too much effort. They’re ideal for a satisfying start to a busy day, providing a warm and inviting flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whip up a batch and watch them disappear!
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

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

Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri offers a flavorful escape from the usual quick meals. This dish is both fast and impressive, perfect for when you want to dine well but time is tight. The chimichurri sauce adds a bright, herby punch that complements the steaks beautifully. It’s a restaurant-quality meal without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin

A white bowl with Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin in it.
Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

This dish brings a hint of sweetness to your dinner routine, ensuring a flavorful meal that’s both quick and delicious. Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin is a tantalizing main course that’s ready in no time. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something a little different but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Stovetop Pineapple Pork Tenderloin

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