Looking for a solution to the age-old problem of what to cook for dinner, Monday through Friday? You’re not alone! We’ve all been there – tired, stressed, and unsure of what to whip up in the kitchen. That’s why we’ve curated a list of 18 quick and easy recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s. From one-pot pasta dishes to sheet pan fajitas, and from protein-packed stir-fries to satisfying salads, these recipes are designed to be fast, flavorful, and foolproof.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of quick and easy cooking, showcasing 18 mouthwatering recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious and doable dishes.
One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying meal with this simple one-pot pasta recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Bring the pasta, olive oil, garlic, and chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
In this easy and flavorful recipe, chicken breast, bell peppers, onions, and fajita seasoning come together on a single sheet pan for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp fajita seasoning
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil and fajita seasoning. Add chicken, bell peppers, and onions; toss to coat.
4. Spread mixture onto the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken and vegetable mixture onto tortillas; add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
15-Minute Beef Stir Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful beef stir fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep. This recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that can be on the table in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon
A flavorful and moist salmon dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of butter for a deliciously easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this flavorful Vegetable Fried Rice recipe! This dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for another minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe
Transform tender pork into a mouthwatering pulled pork masterpiece with this easy and flavorful slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pork shoulder, sliced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Place the pork mixture into the preheated slow cooker.
4. Pour in the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is coated evenly.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. When done, use two forks to shred the pork into tender strings.
7. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Caprese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this Italian-inspired dish, featuring fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella, basil, and salt.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and create a horizontal incision in each breast to form a pocket.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the mozzarella-basil mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with pepper.
6. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “MEAT/STEW” button or “MANUAL” mode and cook at high pressure for 30 minutes + 10 minute natural release.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Serve Hot: Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Avocado Toast with Poached Egg
A simple yet satisfying breakfast or brunch option that combines creamy avocado with a runny poached egg.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (toasted)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large egg
– Water for poaching the egg
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Bring a pot of water to a simmer and crack in the egg.
4. Poach the egg for 3-5 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
5. Remove the egg from the water with a slotted spoon and place on top of the avocado toast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Wrap
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and tangy Greek yogurt for a flavorful wrap that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and honey until smooth.
2. Add diced chicken, red bell pepper, cucumber, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Lay the tortilla flat and spoon the chicken mixture onto one half of the wrap.
4. Fold the other half over the filling to create a neat package.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes, assembly time: 5 minutes)
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian dish is a staple of Roman cuisine, made with just a few simple ingredients and a rich, savory flavor profile. With its bold garlic and chili pepper flavors, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2-3 dried red chili flakes (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant.
4. If using chili flakes, add them to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic mixture. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean Quesadillas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe that combines tender black beans, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 2 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the black beans and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
6. Spoon the black bean mixture on top of the cheese.
7. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
9. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
10. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Shrimp and Broccoli
Get ready to savor the sweet and savory flavors of this Asian-inspired dish! This quick and easy recipe combines succulent shrimp with crisp broccoli, all wrapped up in a sticky teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and 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, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the broccoli and garlic; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the teriyaki sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions (if using).
9. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Pasta
A creamy and savory pasta dish that combines the flavors of Italy with the sweetness of eggplant. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until eggplant is tender and cheese is melted.
7. Combine cooked pasta, eggplant mixture, and chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Panini
A classic combination of juicy turkey, melted cheese, and crispy bread makes this panini a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole wheat bread
– 2 oz sliced turkey breast
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 lettuce leaf
– 1 tomato slice
– Mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one side of each bread slice with the cream cheese.
3. Layer the turkey, cheddar cheese, lettuce, and tomato on one bread slice.
4. Place the other bread slice, cream cheese-side down, on top of the filling.
5. Cook in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a flavorful and aromatic shrimp scampi that combines the brightness of lemon, pungency of garlic, and richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 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; then add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp in a single layer, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice evenly over the shrimp.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat, garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy a variety of colorful vegetables and protein-rich tofu, all stir-fried together in one pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed broccoli florets and carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and broccoli-carrot mixture; stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting, creamy casserole that combines the flavors of broccoli, cheese, and rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked broccoli to the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to kickstart your week with these 18 quick and easy recipes! From one-pot pasta dishes like Garlic Parmesan Pasta, to sheet pan meals like Chicken Fajitas, and slow cooker favorites like BBQ Pulled Pork, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find healthy options like Vegetable Fried Rice, Avocado Toast with Poached Egg, and Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Wrap. Plus, indulgent treats like Caprese Stuffed Chicken, Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, and Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. Whether you’re a busy professional or a busy parent, these recipes will become your new go-to’s for delicious meals.
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