When you’re too tired to cook, but takeout just won’t cut it (or fit in your budget), these 11 easy recipes save the day. Each one keeps things simple without skimping on flavor, so you can have a good dinner on the table without spending all your energy. Perfect for those nights when you want a tasty meal fast, these recipes make cooking feel a lot less like work.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Canned Chicken Salad
Looking for a no-cook meal that’s ready in minutes? This canned chicken salad mixes up fast and gives a refreshing, versatile option for busy nights. It’s delicious on its own, served over greens, or paired with bread for a dinner that’s both effortless and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Salad
Creamy Pea Pasta
Want a creamy, comforting meal without the long wait? This creamy pea pasta comes together in a flash, with a velvety sauce and fresh peas adding rich flavor. It’s a meatless choice that feels indulgent while staying quick and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Craving something fresh and full of flavor but low on prep? This Kung Pao chicken salad delivers a mix of zesty sauce, crunchy veggies, and tender chicken, making it a fast meal that feels special. It’s a refreshing, satisfying dinner that’s simple to make on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Poached Orange Salmon
Need a flavorful dinner that’s ready fast? Poached orange salmon delivers bright citrus notes and tender, flaky fish without a lot of hassle. It’s a healthy, simple recipe that’s big on taste and takes minimal effort to get on the table.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon
Caprese Panini
Craving Italian flavors without spending hours cooking? This Caprese panini combines melty cheese and fresh basil for a quick, satisfying meal. Perfect for a busy night, this sandwich delivers a classic taste with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini
Cacio e Pepe
Looking for a pasta dish that’s big on flavor and short on time? Cacio e Pepe uses just a few ingredients but makes a bold, tasty meal in only 15 minutes. It’s the perfect go-to when you need something simple and satisfying in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Tomato Soup
Want a quick, comforting meal that feels homemade? This Instant Pot tomato soup is rich and smooth, ready in just minutes for a warm dinner option. It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t cut corners on taste, making it perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Soup
Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Need a family-friendly meal that’s easy to pull together? This tuna and tomato pasta takes about 25 minutes to make, making it a great choice when you’re short on time. It’s simple, tasty, and quick enough that kids can even help with the cooking.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Ground Turkey Pancakes
Ever tried a savory twist on pancakes? These ground turkey pancakes are a quick, protein-packed dinner that’s both hearty and unique. They’re an easy and fun way to make dinner interesting without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Pancakes
Asian-Inspired Turkey Burgers
Craving a burger with a twist but don’t have much time? These Asian-inspired turkey burgers cook up fast and bring bold flavor to the table. Perfect for nights when you want something different and tasty without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Asian-Inspired Turkey Burgers
Simple Marinara Sauce
Need a quick, versatile sauce to make dinner special? This simple marinara is ready in minutes, adding a rich tomato flavor to pasta or acting as a perfect dipping sauce. It’s an easy way to get great flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Simple Marinara Sauce