33 Easy Winter Recipes That Save You From Takeout

Having any one of these 33 easy winter recipes can be a real lifesaver when time is short, and takeout feels like the only option. Sometimes, all you need is a quick, home-cooked meal that doesn’t take much thought. Fast dinners can still be just as comforting. It also helps to have a few go-to favorites when you want to keep things simple.

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce. — Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fried Shrimp

When you crave that crispy, golden crunch, this Fried Shrimp really comes through. The hot and savory bites remind you of easy nights when quick comfort wins. Many go back for more since each piece tastes just right. Try dipping a few and see why no one misses takeout.
Get the Recipe: Fried Shrimp

Cheese Quesadilla

A person lifts a cheesy quesadilla slice from a wooden board. Nearby are bowls of guacamole and salsa on a light-colored table. — Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

On those evenings when dinner has to be fast, this Cheese Quesadilla is the quickest dinner trick. Gooey cheese melts inside a warm tortilla for a meal you’ll want again soon. Cutting it into triangles takes just seconds, yet feels special. Sometimes the simplest recipe is the one you keep reaching for.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Quesadilla

Chinese Steamed Chicken

A bowl of steamed chicken pieces with mushrooms, garnished with chopped green onions, with chopsticks picking up a piece. — Chinese Steamed Chicken. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Juicy bites in this Chinese Steamed Chicken always surprise with their gentle flavor. Steaming keeps everything tender, which makes clean-up easy. If you want a dinner that feels both fresh and filling, here’s your answer. It’s perfect for anyone who prefers a light, comforting meal—no fuss.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Steamed Chicken

Aglio e Olio

Close-up of fettuccine pasta tossed with grated cheese, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes being lifted with a fork. — Aglio e Olio. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Garlic lovers can’t help but enjoy this Aglio e Olio whenever it shows up on the table. The flavors are bold yet not too heavy, making it easy to come back for seconds. There’s something about a steaming bowl of noodles that feels instantly relaxing. You might find you have most of the ingredients already.
Get the Recipe: Aglio e Olio

Chicken Casserole

Comfort food gets even cozier with this Chicken Casserole. Layers of simple goodness blend together in every spoonful, making it great for hungry eaters. Extra portions are always a good idea because the leftovers taste even better. Don’t be surprised if your kitchen smells inviting all evening.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Casserole

Egg Roll in a Bowl

A bowl of stir-fried ground meat, shredded cabbage, and carrots, topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. — Egg Roll in a Bowl. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For those who love classic takeout taste without deep-frying, this Egg Roll in a Bowl really hits the spot. Every forkful packs in crunch and flavor, so it feels like a favorite meal in a brand new way. Swapping the wrap for a bowl keeps things quick. Dinner feels fun and speedy at the same time.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll in a Bowl

Beef and Broccoli

Nothing beats the feeling of sitting down to this Beef and Broccoli after a long day. You get perfectly tender meat with crisp veggies, all under a fabulous sauce. Homemade options quickly make takeout menus seem less tempting. Taste this once and see the difference for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Broccoli

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible. — Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes you want something rich but not heavy, and this Cacio e Pepe answers that craving every time. The salty cheese and kick of pepper always seem to warm you up. Simple dishes don’t get enough credit for how they bring people together. Twirl this pasta yourself to see how fast it disappears.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Beef Enchilada Tortellini

There’s nothing quite like the unexpected twist in this Beef Enchilada Tortellini. Each bite feels hearty and fun, combining pasta with a bold, saucy filling. The flavors pack a pleasant punch while staying easy to make. This is one mashup you’ll be glad you didn’t order in.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Chicken Salad Sandwich

Whenever you need something light but filling, this Chicken Salad Sandwich comes to mind. Mixing up a batch only takes minutes, yet the taste lingers in the best way. Eating it with crunchy bread is always a little treat. Lunch just feels easier when it’s ready to eat by the handful.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad Sandwich

Garden Veggie Pizza

Someone taking a slice of veggie pizza. — Garden Veggie Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Seeing colorful toppings piled high on this Garden Veggie Pizza makes dinner look bright and inviting. Every wedge holds a fresh crunch and gooey cheese, which is hard to turn down. Homemade pizza can feel like a special event, even on regular nights. You might be surprised how quickly everyone grabs a slice.
Get the Recipe: Garden Veggie Pizza

Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Golden fried chicken pieces with a side of dipping sauce. — Chick-fil-A Nuggets. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a homemade spin on a classic favorite, these Chick-fil-A Nuggets truly impress. Bites come out juicy with a crisp outer layer that’s hard to resist. Extra servings disappear so fast at gatherings. You’ll wonder why you ever stood in the drive-thru line.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Halloumi Stroganoff

A dish of grilled paneer cubes in a rich, orange curry sauce, garnished with chopped cilantro, served in a shallow bowl. — Halloumi Stroganoff. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Melted cheese takes center stage in this Halloumi Stroganoff. The creamy sauce combined with savory bites creates something hearty but not heavy. Adding this dish to your dinner rotation brings variety and comfort. Even picky eaters often find themselves digging in for just one more scoop.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Stroganoff

Chicken Cutlets

Slicing into this Chicken Cutlets always feels rewarding because a crisp outside gives way to juicy, tender meat. The process is straightforward yet the results taste like something from a favorite lunch spot. No fancy tricks needed to make this memorable. Serving them warm keeps everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cutlets

Coconut Shrimp

A bowl filled with golden-brown, breaded and fried shrimp, garnished with chopped herbs. — Coconut Shrimp. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Light, sweet, and a little different, this Coconut Shrimp is a small escape from regular routine. The slight crunch paired with tropical hints always feels refreshing. Pairing it with a simple dip makes a quick snack or dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser every single time it comes out.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Shrimp

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds. — Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With a mild kick and lots of crunch, this Kung Pao Chicken transforms any quiet dinner into something a little more exciting. The sweet and spicy sauce means each bite tastes bold without being overwhelming. Leftovers vanish quickly after this dish is served. Keep it in your easy meal lineup.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Chicken Marsala

Two pieces of cooked chicken breast topped with sautéed mushrooms and chopped herbs on a red plate, with a fork and knife beside them. — Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Silky sauce and tender chicken mingle in this Chicken Marsala, bringing an old favorite right to your own table. There’s something soothing about making a dish that feels full of tradition but takes little time. The flavors taste rich without being too much. Holding onto this recipe is a smart move for cozy nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala

Hash Browns

Waking up to the smell of these Hash Browns makes any day feel a bit more special. The crispy edges and soft core make every bite worth slowing down for. Sneaking a few pieces before serving is hard to resist. Breakfast or dinner, there’s never a bad time for this classic.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Chicken Tenders

For anyone who loves dunkable meals, these Chicken Tenders hit all the right notes. Crunchy outside and tender inside, they remind you of simple joys from childhood. Eating them with sauce only adds to the fun. Sometimes the most familiar recipes are the ones you remember longest.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders

Honey Glazed Carrots

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

Sweetness shines through with these Honey Glazed Carrots, offering a fresh take on an everyday veggie. A shine of honey means each piece glows on the plate. Bringing a new twist to a basic side starts conversation at the table. Kids and adults both seem to enjoy this subtle treat.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Carrots

Chow Mein

No takeout bag needed when you have this Chow Mein ready at home. Noodles and veggies get tangled up in a rich sauce that never fails to impress. Quick clean-up means more time to relax after eating.
Get the Recipe: Chow Mein

Marry Me Butter Beans

A cast iron skillet with creamy pasta mixed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with cheese, with a wooden spoon resting inside. — Marry Me Butter Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm and creamy, these Marry Me Butter Beans bring pure comfort with every spoonful. Combining simple ingredients makes a dish that’s truly cozy. Reaching for this meal whenever a bit more warmth is needed is common. It’s perfect for quick dinners and makes leftovers worth saving.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Butter Beans

Hamburger Soup

A bowl of ground meat stew with potatoes, peas, carrots, and herbs in a rich broth, garnished with chopped parsley. — Hamburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hot and full of flavor, this Hamburger Soup feels like a big hug in a bowl. Easy to prepare, each slurp takes you back to more carefree days. Saving some for lunch the next day is always a good idea since the flavors deepen overnight. Skip fast food and try this comforting classic.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Soup

Mushroom Pasta

Close-up of fusilli pasta with mushrooms, garnished with rosemary and black pepper. — Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Earthy mushrooms and tender noodles create magic in this Mushroom Pasta. Flavors blend together smoothly for a dinner that feels fancy but requires little fuss. Sauce clings to every bite for extra richness. Dinner becomes something to look forward to all day.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pasta

Sloppy Joe

There’s nothing fancy about this Sloppy Joe, and that’s exactly why people come back for it. Rich, saucy filling piles high on a soft bun for an easy weeknight win. Messy hands signal a great meal at the table. You might have fond memories linked to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe

Mac and Cheese

When cold evenings call for something soothing, this Mac and Cheese saves the day. Creamy sauce wraps every noodle, making it a crowd favorite for any meal. Making bigger batches is smart because leftovers vanish quickly. This recipe never fails to brighten up the table.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

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.

A luxe sauce coats noodles in this Pasta Carbonara, leaving just a bit of shine on every strand. Fast prep means this dinner lands on the table before takeout ever could. The flavor is bold enough to hold its own, even when served plain. Comfort food seldom gets easier than this.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Mushroom Tacos

Three soft tacos filled with lettuce, mushrooms, shredded cheese, and cherry tomatoes, garnished with a lime wedge. — Mushroom Tacos. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Switch up your taco night with these Mushroom Tacos for a hearty filling that holds its own. Smoky and tender, each bite packs in plenty of flavor without being heavy. Missing the usual fillings isn’t an issue with these tacos. Try a new take and see how fast they disappear.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Tacos

Tuna Casserole

For those evenings when inspiration runs low, this Tuna Casserole is the easy answer. Bubbly and golden, it’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a reward at the end of a long day. Pull out a portion and the kitchen smells wonderful immediately. Some meals are classics for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Casserole

Spicy Udon Noodles

Close-up of stir-fried noodles with vegetables, including carrots, green beans, and chopped red peppers, garnished with sesame seeds. Chopsticks are picking up some noodles. — Spicy Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Turning up the heat, these Spicy Udon Noodles bring both warmth and a little thrill with every bite. Thick noodles soak up saucy goodness so each bowl stays filling. Eating straight from the pan is common because waiting is tough. Next time you crave spice, skip delivery.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Panda Express Super Greens

A plate of stir-fried kale, broccoli, and sliced onions, served with a pair of chopsticks on the side. — Panda Express Super Greens. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hearty greens get a fresh update as these Panda Express Super Greens change how you look at veggies. Every forkful is crunchy, vibrant, and full of goodness. Preparing them at home means seconds are always an option. Takeout sides suddenly feel less exciting.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Super Greens

Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate. — Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baking up this Neapolitan Pizza brings a little piece of Italy right to your kitchen table. The crust turns out chewy and crisp, while tangy sauce waits just beneath. Cutting hot slices feels even more special when shared. Once you try it homemade, grabbing delivery won’t feel the same.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Golden, bubbly, and irresistibly cheesy, these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes quickly disappear at any gathering. The warmth from every bite seems to bring people together without much fuss. Bringing this dish guarantees everyone feels instantly welcome. It’s the kind of comfort food you crave again and again.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes