Need a meal but short on time? These 11 fast meals prove you can cook something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re in a rush or just don’t feel like taking all day to cook, these meals come together quickly and easily. No need to sacrifice flavor when time is tight.
Tuna and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Creamy Pea Pasta
This creamy pea pasta is quick and easy to make, delivering a satisfying meal in no time. It’s a great meatless option for busy nights when flavor and speed matter. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the fresh peas, making it a dish everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Simple Marinara Sauce
This homemade marinara sauce is both fast and versatile, turning any meal into something special. Ready in just a few minutes, it adds rich tomato flavor to pasta or can be used as a dipping sauce. It’s a simple way to make a quick meal that tastes great.
Get the Recipe: Simple Marinara Sauce
Tomato Basil Bisque
Tomato basil bisque is a rich, creamy soup that comes together quickly in about 30 minutes. This easy recipe offers a warm, satisfying meal that doesn’t take long to prepare. It’s the perfect option for those nights when a quick but comforting dinner is needed.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Bisque
Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e pepe is a fast and simple pasta dish that can be ready in just 15 minutes. With only a few ingredients, it packs a flavorful punch without the wait. It’s an easy and delicious choice for busy nights when you need a satisfying meal quickly.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Kung Pao Chicken Salad
This Kung Pao chicken salad is quick to make and full of bold, zesty flavors. It’s a fast meal that combines crunchy veggies with savory chicken, making it a refreshing dinner choice. It’s a satisfying option for those nights when time is tight, but taste is important.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs
Sweet potato turkey meatballs are both healthy and easy to make, offering a flavorful meal in no time. These quick-to-make meatballs are packed with nutrition, making them a great choice for busy evenings. They are simple to prepare and perfect for a stress-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Turkey Meatballs
Canned Chicken Salad
Canned chicken salad is a no-cook meal that comes together in minutes, making it perfect when time is short. It’s refreshing, versatile, and can be eaten as-is or paired with bread or greens for a full meal. This easy recipe takes almost no time and still satisfies.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Salad
Tomato Soup
Tomato soup made in the Instant Pot is quick and easy, with rich flavor ready in just minutes. It’s a smooth and comforting option for a fast dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste. This simple recipe is perfect for those nights when dinner needs to be both fast and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Soup
Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Tuna and tomato pasta is a quick meal that can be whipped up in about 25 minutes, perfect for busy nights. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. The recipe is quick enough for kids to help with, making it a fun option for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Poached Orange Salmon
Poached orange salmon is a healthy, fast meal that cooks up quickly, bringing bright flavors to your dinner table. This simple dish requires minimal effort but delivers a satisfying and tasty result. It’s a great choice when looking for something flavorful but easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon
Ground Turkey Pancakes
Ground turkey pancakes are a fun, savory twist on traditional pancakes, making them a quick and hearty meal. These protein-packed pancakes come together fast and offer a satisfying dinner that’s different and delicious. They’re an easy way to make dinner fun without taking too much time.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Pancakes