Long days don’t leave much energy for complicated cooking. Standing over the stove for hours isn’t an option when hunger strikes fast.
Good food doesn’t need fancy ingredients or endless prep to be delicious. These 15 recipes keep things simple so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying every bite.
1. Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Pressure cook pork shoulder with spices to create tender, flavorful shredded meat. Add smoky barbecue sauce for bold, rich flavor and extra juiciness.
Serve on toasted buns with a tangy coleslaw topping. Pair with baked beans or roasted corn for a classic barbecue spread.
Full recipe: click here.
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp
Sauté shrimp in a hot pan with melted butter and garlic. Toss with red pepper flakes for heat and fresh parsley for color.
Serve over rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up sauce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice for extra brightness and balance of flavors.
Full recipe: click here.
3. One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken
Cook chicken thighs in a skillet with olive oil and herbs. Add lemon slices, garlic, and butter for extra depth and fragrance.
Let everything caramelize until golden brown and perfectly juicy inside. Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad for balance.
Full recipe: click here.
4. 15-Minute Garlic Butter Salmon
Sear salmon fillets in a hot pan until crisp on edges. Add garlic, butter, and a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness.
Baste the fillets while cooking to keep them moist and flavorful. Serve with steamed greens or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Full recipe: click here.
5. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Toss chicken wings in seasoning and air fry until golden brown. Flip halfway through cooking for even crispness and perfect texture.
Toss in buffalo sauce, honey garlic, or barbecue glaze before serving. Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping enjoyment.
Full recipe: click here.
6. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Sauté thinly sliced beef in a wok with garlic and soy sauce. Add steamed broccoli and toss with a savory, slightly sweet brown sauce.
Serve over hot rice or noodles for a satisfying, quick meal. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra crunch and flavor.
Full recipe: click here.
7. Loaded Breakfast Burritos
Scramble eggs with cheese, cooked bacon, or crumbled sausage for filling. Wrap everything in a warm tortilla with salsa, avocado, and beans.
Toast the burrito in a pan until golden brown and sealed. Serve with sour cream or hot sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Full recipe: click here.
8. 20-Minute Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Cook spaghetti until al dente and toss with sautéed garlic and oil. Add red pepper flakes for heat and parsley for freshness.
Finish with grated Parmesan and a splash of pasta water for sauce. Serve immediately with crusty bread and a simple green salad.
Full recipe: click here.
9. Skillet Quesadillas
Layer cheese, chicken, or beans inside a flour tortilla before cooking. Cook on a skillet until crispy outside and melted inside.
Flip carefully for even browning and cook until golden on both sides. Serve with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for dipping.
Full recipe: click here.
10. Greek Chicken Pita Wraps
Marinate chicken with lemon, garlic, and Greek spices before grilling. Stuff warm pita bread with chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce.
Wrap tightly to keep everything together and easy to eat. Serve with a side of fries or a light Greek salad.
Full recipe: click here.
11. Sheet Pan Sausage and Vegetables
Roast sausages with chopped bell peppers, onions, and zucchini on one pan. Drizzle with olive oil, garlic, and seasonings for a bold flavor.
Bake until everything is golden brown and slightly caramelized. Serve over rice or quinoa for a balanced, filling dinner.
Full recipe: click here.
12. Baked Mac and Cheese
Make a creamy cheese sauce using butter, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix with cooked macaroni and top with breadcrumbs for crunch.
Bake until golden brown and bubbling hot on top. Serve as a main dish or a side with grilled meat.
Full recipe: click here.
13. BBQ Chicken Flatbread
Spread barbecue sauce over flatbread and top with cooked shredded chicken. Add sliced red onions, mozzarella, and fresh cilantro for extra layers.
Bake until crispy with melted cheese and slightly charred edges. Slice into pieces and serve warm with extra sauce on the side.
Full recipe: click here.
14. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes until soft and mash with butter, milk, and garlic. Mix until creamy and smooth with no lumps or chunks remaining.
Add Parmesan cheese or herbs for extra flavor and depth. Serve with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables.
Full recipe: click here.
15. Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
Cook chicken in a skillet with a thick, homemade teriyaki sauce. Serve over steamed rice with sliced cucumbers and shredded carrots.
Drizzle extra sauce on top for a glossy, flavorful finish. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a fresh touch.
Full recipe: click here.
Final Thoughts
Cooking can be quick, simple, and still full of flavor. A few good ingredients and easy steps make a big difference.
Having reliable recipes on hand makes mealtime stress-free and enjoyable. Great meals don’t need hours in the kitchen or complicated techniques.
Featured image credit to ©damn_delicious.
