29 Fast Recipes For When Dinner Feels Like Too Much Work
Ever found yourself staring at the kitchen, thinking cooking is just too much effort today? Yep, happens to the best of us. Now, imagine having not one, not two, but 29 fast recipes up the sleeve for these exact moments. Each one is a little life-saver, all quick, all easy, and all delicious.
Shrimp Burrito Bowls
When you’re craving something fresh but want to keep it quick, Shrimp Burrito Bowls are the way to go. Loaded with succulent shrimp, they bring a wave of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Rice, beans, and your favorite toppings come together in a harmony that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls
Avocado Toast
Bust out that ripe avocado and get ready for a simply speedy meal known as Avocado Toast. There’s no rocket science here, just good food fast, and you can change it up with all kinds of toppings. When you can’t afford time for kitchen complications, this go-to dish is there to fill you up with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast
Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas
If you’ve got some leftover chicken and a craving for cheesy goodness, Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas are your answer. Cook until crispy and golden, and you’ve got a meal that’s both effortless and mouthwatering. Perfect for a laid-back dinner, especially when you’re short on time but big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas
Shrimp Tempura
Craving something crispy without the fuss? Shrimp Tempura is your golden ticket. You’ll coat shrimp in a light, airy batter and quickly fry it to achieve that irresistible crunch we all love. Serve it with a simple dipping sauce and watch it disappear faster than you made it, proving that not all fast dinners skimp on fun.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Changing up your salad game can be as easy as adding a little kick. Mexican Street Corn Salad is a lively addition to any dinner, offering flavors that pop without spending hours on preparation. Just toss the ingredients together and you’ve got a side dish that speaks volumes.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Who says whipping up an appetizing meal has to be complicated? Enter Buffalo Chicken Dip – an easy, baked concoction that’s ready before your guests can ask, “What’s for dinner?” It’s a little bit of spice, a lot of creamy, and a guarantee that you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all evening.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Sushi Bake
Who says you need to roll sushi to enjoy it? Layer your favorite sushi ingredients in a dish, bake, and then scoop onto seaweed sheets for an unconventional take on a classic. Sushi Bake is a deconstructed version that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake
Million Dollar Dip
Need a starter that’s both easy to make and sure to impress? Million Dollar Dip is rich in flavors and doesn’t skimp on the wow factor. A few ingredients mixed together and refrigerated, and you’ve got a dip that lives up to its name. Perfect for when you want luxury without the labor.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Dip
Spaghetti Casserole
Sometimes, you just need the comfort of pasta baked to perfection with a golden cheese topping. With Spaghetti Casserole, it’s like taking your regular spaghetti night and giving it a comforting twist. Throw in your favorite sauce and maybe some meat or veggies, bake until bubbly, and you’ve turned a classic into something special.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole
Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers
If you’re pressed for time but in the mood for stuffed peppers, turn to the convenience of an air fryer and whip up some Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers. It’s casual dining at its best, giving you a fun and speedy way to tackle dinner without breaking a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sloppy Joe Stuffed Peppers
Shrimp Scampi
Let’s talk about whipping up something speedy without skimping on elegance. Shrimp Scampi is all about tender shrimp cooked in a garlicky, buttery sauce that perfectly coats your favorite pasta. Simple ingredients and a short cooking time make it an ideal choice for a rushed evening meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi
Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole
Want a meal that’s cozy and familiar without having to wait around? Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole brings you comfort food straight from your childhood, but way faster. Each bite is a nostalgic journey that’s crisp, golden, and full of flavor, thanks to your trusty air fryer. It’s the homestyle dish that’s big on taste and low on time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tater Tot Casserole
Bacon Wrapped Smokies
When you want to snack on something delicious in record time, Bacon Wrapped Smokies are there for you. These little bites cook up so fast, yet pack a punch of flavor that suggests they simmered for hours. It’s the perfect quick-fix for those who want to treat themselves without spending ages in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Mixing things up for dinner doesn’t have to be hard. Take your typical pasta night, add some bold enchilada sauce and beef, and Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini transforms it into a meal that’s bursting with flavor. The tortellini soaks up all the spicy sauce, making every bite a delicious adventure.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini
Air Fryer Twisted Bacon
Catch yourself in a rush but craving something crispy? It’s Air Fryer Twisted Bacon to the rescue. The air fryer churns out this salty treat quickly and with less mess than traditional frying. It’s the ideal pick-me-up when you need to add a little crunch to your meal without waiting around.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Twisted Bacon
Tuscan Pasta
Bring a bit of Italian flair to your table without the wait. Tuscan Pasta combines a creamy sauce with just a hint of garlic and parmesan, clinging to your favorite pasta shape. It’s quick to whip up but feels like a treat, making it a perfect weeknight luxury. And it’s versatile, welcoming whatever add-ins you’ve got on hand.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta
Beef Tacos
Tacos are always a hit, and Beef Tacos might just be the quickest hit of them all. Brown up some ground beef, toss on your favorite extras, and you’ve instantly brought fun to the dinner plate. They’re not just delicious; they’re a rapid solution to the age-old question of what to make in a pinch.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos
Veggie Pizza
If you’re looking for something quick and easy for dinner, consider slicing up some vegetables and tossing them on a crust. Veggie Pizza breaks the myth that tasty has to be time-consuming. It’s a simple, no-fuss meal everyone can put their toppings on. Just preheat your oven, get creative with your toppings, bake, and you’re done.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza
BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
Transform last night’s chicken into today’s quick feast with BBQ Chicken Quesadilla. Mix that flavorful chicken with tangy BBQ sauce, put it in a quesadilla, toast until melty goodness – and voilà! Dinner’s ready before your stomach starts to grumble. It’s the easy meal that satisfies and redefines the concept of ‘fast food’.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Quesadilla
Tortilla Pizza
Cut down on dinner prep with a fun and fast twist on everyone’s favorite. Spread your favorite pizza toppings on a tortilla, bake until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are crisp, and you’ve got a thin-crust delight. Tortilla Pizza is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it gets, ensuring you get to the eating part faster.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza
Best Lemon Pasta
On evenings when cooking is the last thing on your mind, Best Lemon Pasta offers a zingy reprieve. It’s light, it’s quick, and it has that punch of citrus to keep things interesting. No more poring over takeout menus; creating a refreshing pasta dish can be both speedy and pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta
Air Fryer Swedish Meatballs
For a quick dinner that feels like a treat, the Air Fryer Swedish Meatballs are a speedy solution. Let the air fryer work its charm and enjoy these little spheres of joy with minimal effort. It’s your ticket to a comforting meal that’s ready in a flash, leaving you more time to unwind.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Swedish Meatballs
Marry Me Salmon
When you’re in the mood for something that feels fancy without all the fuss, Marry Me Salmon is your go-to. A little seasoning and a quick sear can make salmon feel like a celebration. Paired with a simple side, and dinner is looking gourmet in no time.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Salmon
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Sometimes, all it takes to impress is a dish that looks like you’ve been at it all day, even when it only took minutes. Marry Me Chicken Pasta offers that with its creamy sauce and tender chicken. Just boil some pasta, sear the chicken, mix with the sauce, and it’s a meal that whispers romance without all the effort.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings
Getting that perfect balance of seasoning and crunch doesn’t have to take hours. Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings can turn your kitchen into your new favorite wing spot faster than you might think. You just mix, toss, and bake. Once they’re out of the oven, it’s all about diving right in.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings
Meatball Sliders
Want a dinner that’s both easy and a crowd-pleaser? Meatball Sliders are the answer. Just get your meatballs, sauce, and buns ready. A quick assembly and a short bake will have everyone cheering without keeping you in the kitchen all evening.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders
Vegetable Stir Fry
Go from zero to dinner with a vibrant mix of veggies and a quick stir fry sauce. It’s a fantastic way to use up whatever produce you have lying around. Throw it all together in the pan, and in minutes, you’re serving up Vegetable Stir Fry, a dish full of color and crunch.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry
Mexican Street Corn Dip
For a twist on traditional side dishes, Mexican Street Corn Dip brings a crowd-favorite into your kitchen. It’s as simple as combining ingredients and giving them a quick bake. This dip promises to be the highlight of any meal, with minimal effort on your part.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Dip
Antipasto Salad
If you’re after a quick, no-cook dinner option, Antipasto Salad fits the bill perfectly. It combines various ingredients in a simple toss-up that ends in a delicious bowl of Italian-inspired flavors. It’s like a mini getaway in the middle of your week without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
