Why Spend Hours In The Kitchen When 29 Easy Recipes Exist

Long hours in the kitchen aren’t a requirement for a great meal. These 29 recipes keep things simple without sacrificing flavor, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying. Whether you need a quick dinner or something effortless for guests, these meals have you covered. Because the best recipes are the ones that don’t feel like work.

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Close-up of loaded Buffalo chicken nachos piled high with shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheese, green onions, hot sauce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re short on time but crave something delicious, try Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. With layers of crispy chips, tender chicken, and a drizzle of tangy sauce, this quick recipe hits all the right notes. It’s the perfect snack for game nights or just a casual evening at home.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Breakfast Burritos

Close-up of a burrito cut in half, showing fillings of scrambled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, and herbs wrapped in a tortilla.
Breakfast Burritos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a quick yet delicious start to your day, nothing beats Breakfast Burritos. Filled with hearty ingredients and easily customizable, they deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Ideal for busy mornings or even a grab-and-go lunch, they ensure you’re fueled and ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Burritos

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Close-up of a bowl of chicken tortilla soup with crispy tortilla strips, avocado pieces, corn, cheese, and herbs in a rich red broth.
Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for a quick, warming meal that’s full of flavor? Chicken Tortilla Soup is your answer. This quick yet hearty soup uses simple ingredients to create something comforting and delicious. It’s a great option for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal. You’ll have a bowl on the table in no time, leaving you more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup

Blackened Salmon Tacos

Tacos with grilled salmon, purple cabbage, corn, jalapeño slices, cilantro, and drizzled with white sauce on tortillas.
Blackened Salmon Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For an easy meal with bold flavor try Blackened Salmon Tacos. The seasoned salmon adds a kick while fresh toppings and sauce bring it all together. Perfect for a quick lunch or weeknight dinner they’re simple to make but taste gourmet.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Salmon Tacos

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Skip the hours of prep for this Italian favorite; Pasta Carbonara is both easy and quick. With creamy sauce mingling with pasta, it’s an indulgent meal that doesn’t require much effort. Perfect for dinner, it’s something the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Close-up of a tater tot breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped herbs.
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If mornings are hectic, opt for Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. This dish offers a delicious mix of simple ingredients that cook together in one pan. It’s ideal for family gatherings or just a busy workday morning. Assemble it quickly and let it bake while you take care of other things.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you want comfort food without the wait try Marry Me Chicken Soup. It has a rich savory flavor and is easy to make. Perfect for days when you need something hearty and warm it’s a comforting meal that comes together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion.
Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With Easy Chow Mein, you get all the flavors of a classic meal without the lengthy prep. This noodle dish is both quick and comforting, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Forget ordering takeout; you can have this on the table in the same amount of time. A few minutes are all you need to whip this up and enjoy quality food at home.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Lentil Soup

A hearty bowl of savory lentil soup, beautifully garnished with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and an aromatic blend of spices.
Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

On days when you need something filling yet simple, Lentil Soup is the way to go. It’s nourishing, hearty, and can be made in a short amount of time. Whether for lunch or dinner, this soup provides comfort without keeping you in the kitchen for long. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to make something so wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Soup

Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving ribs but not the long cooking time? Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe delivers rich, savory flavors without hours in the kitchen. Perfect for gatherings, these ribs are straightforward to make and result in tender, flavorful meat. You’ll appreciate the simplicity whether it’s a weekend BBQ or a family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Close-up of a dish featuring glazed carrots garnished with chopped herbs, served in a white bowl.
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a quick and sweet side dish try Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe. These carrots are easy to make and add a touch of sweetness that goes well with many meals. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion they deliver great flavor with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper.
Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Swap the long prep for something faster with Mushroom Pizza. This pizza is straightforward to assemble and bakes quickly, making it perfect for those busy evenings. With a combination of mushrooms and sauce, it’s a tasty meal without much effort. You won’t need to spend hours kneading dough or waiting for it to rise.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

A colorful salad with shredded carrots, zucchini, chicken, orange slices, and sesame seeds on a brown plate, garnished with fresh herbs.
Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Looking for a quick and flavorful meal, Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken is the answer. This dish has a tangy kick and comes together easily, perfect for lunch or a light dinner. It’s a great alternative to takeout, requiring just a few simple steps. Forget spending hours with complicated recipes; this one keeps it easy and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

A spoonful of stuffed pepper casserole with ground meat, red and green bell peppers, cheese, and rice, garnished with herbs.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you want a hearty meal with minimal effort try Stuffed Pepper Casserole. This dish brings all the flavors of stuffed peppers in a simple easy-to-make format. Perfect for busy weeknights it comes together quickly with little prep. It is very delicious and saves you time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving something with a kick? Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is ready in no time and packs plenty of flavors. This pasta dish is both easy and exciting, perfect for spicing up a regular weeknight. It’s a comforting meal that doesn’t need much work. In just a few steps, you’ll have a plate that’s tasty and quick to make.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Pea and Mint Soup

A bowl of creamy green pea soup garnished with mint leaves, black pepper, and pieces of crusty bread.
Pea and Mint Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a fresh and quick meal, Pea and Mint Soup offers a light yet flavorful option. In just a short amount of time, you can create something truly delicious. Ideal for those days when you need something quick but tasty, this soup hits the spot. You’ll love how easily it comes together, giving you more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Pea and Mint Soup

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Close-up of a stack of folded tortillas filled with beef, melted cheese, lettuce, and onions on a white plate.
Big Mac Crunchwrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you want a fast-food fix at home try Big Mac Crunchwrap. It has all the flavors you love in a simple easy-to-make format. Perfect for a busy day you can have it ready in no time. Skip the drive-through because this is just as fast and even more delicious.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a fun and quick meal, Sushi Bake offers a unique twist. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for when you want something a little different. No need for rolling or complicated prep, just layer and bake. It’s simple and fast, ideal for sushi fans who want a hassle-free experience at home.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Want all the flavors of a cheeseburger without the grill? The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole brings it all together in a quick, easy dish. Perfect for busy nights, it’s something the whole family will love. Assemble it quickly and let it bake while you take care of other things.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Skip takeout and make Orange Chicken at home in no time. This sweet and tangy favorite is much quicker and just as tasty when made at home. Perfect for lunch or dinner, you can have it ready in the same time it takes to wait for delivery. Quick to whip up, it’s an easy way to enjoy a restaurant favorite.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Steak Fajita Nacho

A tray of loaded nachos topped with sliced beef, red and green peppers, jalapeños, guacamole, sour cream, and lime wedges on the side.
Steak Fajita Nacho. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a mix of flavors in a short time, Steak Fajita Nacho is the way to go. This dish combines the goodness of fajitas with the simplicity of nachos, all in a quick and easy recipe. Great for sharing or just as a treat for yourself, it’s fast and flavorful. You’ll enjoy making these without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Steak Fajita Nacho

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and garnished with fresh thyme and cracked black pepper.
Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mashed Potatoes are classic and comforting without requiring hours of work. They are simple and quick to prepare making them a perfect side for any meal. Great for busy nights or family dinners you can have them ready in no time. Their simplicity makes them a favorite without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you need a quick yet creamy pasta dish, Penne Alla Vodka is a great option. It comes together in just minutes, offering a rich sauce that pairs perfectly with penne. Great for a weeknight meal, you won’t believe how fast and easy it is. Enjoy a fancy-tasting dish without the hours of prep.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish.
Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for something with bold flavors that’s quick to make? Thai Drunken Noodles are the answer. This noodle dish is fast and full of bold, delicious flavor. Perfect for a quick dinner, you’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together. No more long hours with this recipe; it’s all about speed and taste.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Twice Baked Potatoes are a quick and impressive side dish that is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. They work well with any meal and take little time to make while still standing out. You get the best of both worlds with minimal effort and a delicious result.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Chicken Tamale Pie

A serving of chicken tamale pie topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with chopped herbs on a white plate.
Chicken Tamale Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a hearty meal that comes together fast try Chicken Tamale Pie. It is easy to prepare with all the flavors you love. Perfect for busy nights this simple yet delicious dish saves time without sacrificing taste. No need to spend hours in the kitchen when you can enjoy a great meal in no time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tamale Pie

Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Close-up of a savory biscuit with a creamy ham filling, looking like a gourmet twist on a Biscuits and Gravy Casserole, served elegantly on a plate.
Biscuits and Gravy Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a comforting and quick breakfast, turn to Biscuits and Gravy Casserole. It’s a fast way to enjoy a classic without the lengthy prep. Perfect for feeding a crowd or a cozy morning at home, it’s a dish everyone will love. Simply assemble and bake, and you’re ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing.
Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving the flavors of a classic burger but want something quicker? Copycat Big Mac Salad is the way to go. It’s fast, flavorful, and much lighter than the original. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it comes together easily. Enjoy all the goodness without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A flavorful meal comes together effortlessly with Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Cooking everything in one pan makes clean-up easy. Perfect for busy nights this dish saves time without compromising taste. A delicious dinner is ready with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

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