We’ve all had those nights where dinner sneaks up, and you haven’t planned dinner or gone shopping lately. Instead of stressing about what to make, turn to your pantry. With a few simple ingredients you probably already have, you can throw together a meal that’s quick and tasty. Here are 13 pantry meals that are perfect for those last-minute dinners when you need something fast.
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
This easy meal brings together tender chicken, crisp veggies, and savory seasonings for a dish that’s both flavorful and quick to prepare. It’s one of those pantry meals that makes dinnertime simple without sacrificing taste. Ready in no time, it’s a perfect go-to option when you need something fast.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Tomato Basil Bisque
This soup combines tangy tomatoes with fragrant basil, creating a comforting meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a classic pantry meal that transforms everyday ingredients into a delicious dinner. Perfect for when you want something warm and filling without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Bisque
Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Canned tuna and tomatoes come together in this easy, satisfying pasta dish. It’s one of those pantry meals that can be ready in about 25 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings. With minimal prep and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s a quick and filling dinner that anyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta
Chicken Fried Rice
Leftover chicken gets a tasty makeover in this fried rice dish using pantry staples. It’s a quick and flavorful meal that’s easy to customize with whatever vegetables or seasonings you have on hand. Perfect for turning leftovers into a satisfying dinner without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice
Creamy Pea Pasta
This creamy pasta dish makes use of pantry staples like peas and pasta for a quick, meatless meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make. It’s one of those pantry meals that’s comforting without being complicated. With rich, smooth flavors, it’s an easy dinner you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta
Spicy Tuna Rolls
Canned tuna takes on a new twist in these spicy rolls, offering a flavorful take on sushi made from pantry ingredients. The combination of heat and texture makes this a unique pantry meal that’s sure to hit the spot. It’s a fun, creative way to enjoy a meal without needing anything fancy.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rolls
Cacio e Pepe
This simple pasta dish uses pantry basics like pasta, cheese, and pepper to create a rich, comforting meal. With a quick 15-minute cooking time, it’s one of those pantry meals that delivers big flavor with little effort. It’s an easy, tasty dinner option when you’re looking for something satisfying fast.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Ground beef, rice, and melted cheese come together in this hearty casserole made from common pantry items. It’s a one-pot meal that’s filling and flavorful, perfect for a family dinner. With minimal prep, it’s a comforting dish that turns basic ingredients into a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Pizza Dough
This homemade pizza dough recipe uses pantry staples and makes it easy to create personalized pizzas with your favorite toppings. It’s a flexible recipe that can be customized with what you have on hand, making it a great pantry meal. Turn a few simple ingredients into a delicious homemade pizza.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Dough
Canned Chicken Salad
Canned chicken gets turned into a flavorful, savory salad in this easy recipe using pantry staples. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack when you need something fast and satisfying. With minimal prep, it’s a convenient meal that’s both simple and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Salad
Pizza Pot Pies
These mini pot pies combine all the best parts of pizza and comfort food into one easy meal. They’re made with pantry staples and leftover chicken, offering a creative and fun way to use what you’ve got on hand. Perfect for a cozy dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pot Pies
Tomato Lime Chicken
This simple recipe uses pantry staples like canned tomatoes and spices to create a flavorful chicken dish. It’s versatile and can be used in tacos, salads, or bowls, making it a great pantry meal. With easy-to-find ingredients, it’s a quick and delicious option when you want dinner on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Lime Chicken
Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Using rotisserie chicken and pantry staples, these enchiladas are a cheesy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights. They’re quick to make and packed with flavor, offering a comforting dinner without much work. This easy recipe turns simple ingredients into a stress-free, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Semi-homemade Chicken Enchiladas