17 simple meals to make when you’re craving takeout

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Craving takeout but don’t want to deal with delivery drivers? Try these 17 simple meals that’ll hit the spot without breaking the bank. They’re quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t feel like going out. With these easy recipes, you’ll be saying goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade goodness in no time!

Chicken egg foo young on top of rice on a white plate.
Chicken Egg Foo Young. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Camarones a la Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a meal that’s as fiery as your spirit, Camarones a la Diabla delivers big time. Shrimp smothered in a devilishly spicy sauce—how can that not be a dinner winner? It’s perfect for when you want a bit of zing in your meal. So, light up your evening with this sizzling dish and watch the compliments roll in.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Turn your dinner into a Tuscan retreat with Creamy Tuscan Chicken. This dish is all about bringing the flavors of Italy right into your home. With just the right mix of creaminess and zing, it’ll make your regular chicken dinner feel like a feast in the Italian countryside. Why wait for a special occasion? Make tonight special with Tuscan vibes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Shrimp stuffed into soft corn tortillas with lime wedges on the side.
Camarones al Mojo de Ajo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ready for a garlic explosion that will rock your world? Camarones al Mojo de Ajo is the dish for garlic enthusiasts. Loaded with the good stuff and paired with juicy shrimp, it’s a match made in foodie heaven. Break out this dish when you’re ready to impress and leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bring a touch of Korean flair to your dining table with Beef Bulgogi Bowls. This dish packs a punch with its marinated beef and vibrant veggies, all sitting pretty on a bed of rice. It’s a delicious, filling meal that screams ‘homemade gourmet’ – all from the comfort of your kitchen. Go ahead, let every bite take you on a mini holiday to Korea.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

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

On those chilly nights when only something comforting will do, Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is like a warm hug on a plate. Tender chicken drowning in a creamy, cheesy spinach sauce—it doesn’t get more comforting than that. Gather the family, dish this up, and watch it disappear; it’s that good!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Singapore Noodles

Rice noodles with meat and veggies on a white plate.
Singapore Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, that’s what you get when you bring Singapore Noodles into your kitchen. This dish is a carnival of colors and flavors, twirling around your plate. Forget about hunting for your passport; your palates are hitching a ride to Singapore tonight. And the best part? You can brag to your friends about your awesome noodle skills.
Get the Recipe: Singapore Noodles

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Feeling brave tonight? Szechuan Shrimp is ready to challenge you with its bold, fiery flavors. This dish is not just shrimp; it’s a flavor explosion that will have you reaching for the water and coming back for more. Spice up your dinner routine and show off a bit with this fiery favorite.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Mochiko Chicken

A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.
Mochiko Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ever wanted a taste of Hawaii without the hefty plane ticket? Mochiko Chicken is your cuisine teleporter! Those little crispy bites are a total game-changer – sweet, tangy, and just impossible to stop munching. Next time you gather around for a movie night, let this dish be the star.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Fish tacos on a small baking sheet with limes.
Air Fryer Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Who says you can’t have lighter tacos that are still packed with flavor? Air Fryer Fish Tacos are here to prove everyone wrong. With crispy fish wrapped in a warm tortilla, each bite is a little piece of heaven. Plus, they’re easy to make—a total win-win for taco night at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Salmon and Asparagus Quiche

Salmon and asparagus quiche on a metal plate with parchment paper.
Salmon and Asparagus Quiche. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Fancy a bit of brunch sophistication? Salmon and Asparagus Quiche has got you covered with its flaky crust and creamy filling. It’s not just food; it’s an experience – one that says, ‘Hey, I can be fancy too!’ Whether it’s brunch or dinner, let this dish turn your meal into a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Salmon and Asparagus Quiche

Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Overhead shot of a bowl of noodles with vegetables and thai peanut sauce.
Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

In the mood for something creamy and nutty? Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles are here to satisfy! Wrap your fork around some seriously comforting noodles that are sure to keep you coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s easy enough to make that you can banish those takeout menus from your fridge for good.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Sauce Noodles

Avocado Toast with Grated Egg

Avocado toast on a wooden cutting board.
Avocado Toast with Grated Egg. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Kickstart your morning with a boost from Avocado Toast with Grated Egg. This dish is your new best friend for those mornings when you need a quick, nutritious lift. Layered with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of grated egg, it’s healthy, satisfying, and customizable—what more could you ask for at breakfast?
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast with Grated Egg

Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles

Stir-fried noodles with shrimp and beef in a pan with chopsticks.
Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Let’s take a flavor trip to the bustling streets of Fujian with Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles. This dish is a hearty mix, loaded with all the good stuff, making your dinner both pleasing and adventurous. It’s a perfect choice when you’re in the mood to try something different without leaving your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fried Hokkien Noodles

Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Low angle shot of chicken shawarma on a white platter with harissa paste and tomatoes and cucumbers in the background.
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Have you met the magic maker of the kitchen world, the Instant Pot? Let it introduce you to Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma. This dish is bursting with Middle Eastern spices, wrapped up fast and flavorful. It’s meal prep at its finest, turning your dinner routine into a vibrant feast. Serve it up with pita and watch it vanish before your eyes.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Thai Fried Rice

Overhead shot of Thai fried rice in a white bowl with a skillet of fried rice on the side.
Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Who needs a flight to Bangkok when you can whip up some Thai Fried Rice right in your kitchen? This dish is a flavor fiesta, ready to liven up any mealtime. It’s quick, it’s delicious, and hey, it makes for fewer dishes to wash—now, who wouldn’t love that? Perfect for those nights when “quick and delicious” is the motto.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened fish tacos in taco holders.
Blackened Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Taco Tuesday just got a major upgrade with Blackened Fish Tacos. Spice-rubbed fish nestled in soft tortillas, topped with a dash of creamy sauce—these tacos are not just food, they’re a mood. Grab your apron and turn your kitchen into the coolest taco spot in town. Trust me, you and your family will be saying ‘Olé!’ as you dig in.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos

Chicken Egg Foo Young

Chicken egg foo young on top of rice on a white plate.
Chicken Egg Foo Young. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

If you’re racing against the clock but your stomach is growling, Chicken Egg Foo Young is here to save your dinner plans. It’s your takeout favorite, but you get the bragging rights because you made it yourself! Seriously, who can resist a tangy omelet packed with goodies? Next time you’re thinking quick and delicious, you know what to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Foo Young

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