Title: 20 Quick & Easy Family Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds!
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, only to have your family members leave their plates unfinished? Do you want to cook up a storm without sacrificing quality time with your loved ones? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with this collection of 20 quick and easy family recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort foods to international twists, these dishes are perfect for busy households where everyone’s schedules seem to be in constant flux.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world, exploring recipes that can be whipped up in no time, using minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. Say goodbye to mealtime stress and hello to happy bellies! So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and discover the secret to effortless cooking with these mouthwatering family-friendly recipes!
One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
A creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious twist on classic pasta dishes! This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta recipe combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of a warm bowl of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, sour cream, and diced bell peppers for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and cooked pasta. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add milk and stir until combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of honey and garlic with tender chicken, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch. With minimal prep work and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a delicious and aromatic dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, chicken broth, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this sheet pan recipe combines juicy sausage with colorful vegetables for a flavorful and healthy meal. With minimal cleanup and prep time, you can enjoy a satisfying supper in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange sausage, bell peppers, zucchinis, and red onion in a single layer on the prepared pan.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your desired seasonings.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious sheet pan meal!
Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: A Quick and Delicious Meal Option
5-Ingredient BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready for a deliciously easy meal with this 5-ingredient recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Slow-cooked pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and soft buns come together in a mouthwatering combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with brown sugar, smoked paprika, and salt.
3. Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven and add BBQ sauce.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with any remaining BBQ sauce.
6. Split the hamburger buns and spoon the pulled pork mixture onto the buns.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Satisfy your cravings with this rich and creamy pasta dish, bursting with the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of nutmeg. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this crispy and flavorful baked chicken dish, featuring a crunchy parmesan crust and a hint of Italian seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and oregano.
3. Dip each chicken breast in olive oil, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with your favorite pasta, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and effortless salmon recipe. Pan-seared to perfection, this dish combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic, all in one convenient pan.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine. Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side up (if they have skin).
5. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick and Easy Homemade Pizza
In just a few minutes, you can create a delicious homemade pizza that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This recipe is easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pre-made pizza crust and place it on a baking sheet.
3. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add your desired toppings.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas
These quesadillas pack a punch with tender ground beef, melted cheese, and a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef, onion, and taco seasoning until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. In a separate pan, melt 1 tablespoon of cheese per tortilla (2 tablespoons total) in the center of each tortilla.
4. Place 1/4 cup of cooked ground beef mixture on one half of the tortilla, then fold the other half over to enclose.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted, flipping once.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
30-Minute Chicken Alfredo
Get ready to satisfy your pasta cravings with this speedy recipe! This 30-minute wonder combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and linguine for a comforting meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked chicken back into the sauce and toss to coat.
6. Combine cooked linguine with the chicken Alfredo mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Easy Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a delicious and convenient breakfast burrito filled with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 eggs
– 4 slices of bacon
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 tortillas (flour or whole wheat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, chopped onions, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the scrambled eggs and cook until set.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and shredded cheese.
6. Add any desired toppings and wrap to seal.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
This recipe is a twist on the classic spaghetti bolognese, cooked to perfection in just one pot. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying and comforting meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the spaghetti. Stir gently to coat the pasta in the sauce.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the spaghetti is al dente.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker beef stew is easy to prepare, packed with tender chunks of beef and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck or round, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the beef cubes, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and effortless meal with this sheet pan chicken fajita recipe. Sliced chicken, bell peppers, onions, and spices come together in a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken, bell peppers, onions, and garlic; toss to coat.
4. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper; add the chicken mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top; spread evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
7. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
8. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken and vegetable mixture onto tortillas.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Homemade Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this simple recipe that yields a creamy, cheesy macaroni dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a warm, satisfying bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese (and Parmesan). Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
5-Ingredient Teriyaki Chicken
Get ready for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish with this 5-Ingredient Teriyaki Chicken recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, and ginger.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s ready in just 15 minutes. With only one pan to clean, it’s also incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine and lemon juice, add to the pan and simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick and Easy Pancakes
Quick and Easy Pancakes
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy pancakes that can be whipped up in no time! This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need something quick, easy, and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
5. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve with honey, maple syrup, butter, or fresh fruit for a delicious breakfast treat!
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sliders
These tender and flavorful chicken sliders are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party snack. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy juicy chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and soft buns in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8-10 slider buns
– Optional: chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, and/or diced onions for topping
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the chicken in a slow cooker and add BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and 1/4 cup water.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Split the slider buns and fill with shredded chicken.
6. Top with your desired toppings, if using.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to delight your family with these 20 quick and easy recipes! From comforting pasta dishes like One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, to savory chicken and beef recipes like Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry. You’ll also find delicious options for a busy morning, such as Easy Breakfast Burritos and Quick and Easy Pancakes. And don’t forget about the sweet treats, like 5-Ingredient Teriyaki Chicken and One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp. These recipes are perfect for busy families who want to enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss.
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