Finding delicious and quick dinner recipes that cater to just one person can be a challenge. However, with the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create mouth-watering meals that satisfy your cravings in no time. In this article, we’ll explore 20 tasty dinner recipes perfect for one person. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, these recipes are designed to be quick, easy, and indulgent. Whether you’re a busy professional or a student on-the-go, these meals will provide the inspiration and motivation you need to cook up a storm in your kitchen.
Whether it’s a garlic butter steak with asparagus or a creamy mushroom pasta, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of 20 quick dinner recipes for one person below, and get ready to elevate your cooking game!
Garlic Butter Steak with Asparagus
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring tender steak smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce and served alongside crispy asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
3. In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Place the steak in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness. Transfer to oven and finish cooking, about 5-7 minutes total.
5. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with lemon zest, salt, and remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
6. Serve steak with garlic butter spooned over top and asparagus on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pasta
A rich and comforting pasta dish loaded with sautéed mushrooms and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy mushroom sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe
Summary: A refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the subtle flavor of herbs for a dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad! Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil come together to create a delightful surprise in the center of a ripe avocado.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Arrange a halved tomato on each avocado half.
3. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the tomato.
4. Sprinkle with chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or drizzle with olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 5 minutes.
One-Pan Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry
In this easy recipe, succulent shrimp and crisp broccoli come together in a flavorful and nutritious one-pan dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the broccoli and garlic. Cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Spinach Quesadilla
Elevate your lunch game with this creamy and flavorful quesadilla, packed with spinach, cheese, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole wheat tortilla
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped spinach, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
3. Place the tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese mixture (cheddar and Monterey Jack) on half of the tortilla.
4. Add the spinach-garlic mixture on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese starts to melt.
7. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 minutes per quesadilla.
Teriyaki Salmon with Rice
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this simple yet delicious Teriyaki Salmon with Rice recipe. This classic combination is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the top of each salmon fillet with teriyaki sauce, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the salmon and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions (if using).
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with a side of cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening in, paired with the crunch of grilled cheese sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread
– Butter, for grilling
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, and basil. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Meanwhile, grill the bread slices with butter until golden brown.
7. Serve the soup hot with the grilled cheese sandwiches on the side.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Bell Pepper Skillet
A hearty and flavorful skillet meal that combines tender beef with sweet bell peppers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine.
6. Return the beef strips to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and seasonings.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the beef is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Zucchini Noodles
A refreshing summer twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of basil pesto with the natural sweetness of zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes or until slightly tender.
5. Stir in the pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the noodle mixture to a serving dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and savory baked parmesan crusted chicken recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Tips:
– For an extra crispy crust, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
– Serve with your favorite pasta dish or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl
A flavorful and spicy twist on a classic tuna rice bowl, this dish combines the simplicity of canned tuna with the boldness of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru).
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in flaked tuna, gochugaru, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is heated through.
6. Serve over cooked Japanese short-grain rice.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables
A classic Chinese dish, Egg Fried Rice with Vegetables is a simple and flavorful meal that can be prepared in no time. This recipe combines cooked rice, scrambled eggs, and a variety of colorful vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until they are translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan.
5. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side of the pan and scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
7. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetables and eggs for about 2-3 minutes or until everything is well combined.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavors of garlic and butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt; add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and place on a plate.
5. Reduce heat to medium and stir in lemon juice.
6. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve with: Linguine, crusty bread, or as an appetizer with a green salad.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potato
Satisfy your cravings with this unique twist on traditional BBQ chicken and sweet potatoes. The combination of tender chicken, caramelized sweet potato, and tangy BBQ sauce is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, mix chicken breast with brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread BBQ sauce evenly on the baked sweet potatoes.
5. Place the chicken mixture on top of the sweet potato, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy goodness of chickpeas with the bright, zesty flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Avocado and Egg Toast
Start your day with a creamy, protein-packed breakfast that’s both delicious and nutritious. This Avocado and Egg Toast recipe is a simple yet satisfying way to fuel up for the morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped cilantro, or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until scrambled to your liking.
3. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toasted bread.
4. Place the cooked eggs on top of the avocado.
5. Add any desired toppings (red pepper flakes, chopped cilantro, or crumbled feta cheese).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Lemon Garlic Orzo
Brighten up a weeknight dinner with this sunny one-pot wonder. A flavorful and aromatic orzo dish infused with the zest of lemon and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 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 garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the orzo pasta and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Cheese Burrito
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious burrito recipe, packed with black beans, cheese, and fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-inch flour tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked black beans; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Spoon the bean mixture onto one half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top with shredded cheese and fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chop
Elevate your pork chops with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, and mustard.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
5. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress with these quick and delicious dinner recipes perfect for one person! From Garlic Butter Steak with Asparagus to Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl, this collection of 20 mouthwatering dishes is sure to satisfy your cravings. With a range of options from classic comfort food to international flavors, you’ll find something to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special treat, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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