Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day, just to get a decent meal on the table? We feel your pain. That’s why we’ve rounded up our favorite 20 quick and easy recipes that can be made with just 5 ingredients or less! From savory main courses to sweet treats, these dishes are perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have hours to spare.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent on-the-go, or just someone who loves to cook but doesn’t have the time, we’ve got you covered. Our recipes are designed to be quick, easy, and delicious – no fancy cooking techniques or hard-to-find ingredients required. So go ahead, take a look at our list of 20 mouthwatering dishes below, and get ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
5-Ingredient Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare succulent shrimp with the richness of garlic butter. In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a delicious appetizer or main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat, squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp, and stir in remaining butter.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy 5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these easy-to-make peanut butter cookies that require only 5 ingredients! Perfect for a last-minute treat or snack, these soft and chewy cookies are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add flour and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned on the edges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
5-Ingredient Caprese Salad
Experience the simplicity and flavor of Italy with this classic caprese salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of saltiness from Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a plate or platter.
2. Place the mozzarella slices on top of the tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle the chopped basil over the cheese.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 5 minutes or less.
Simple 5-Ingredient Chicken Quesadillas
These savory quesadillas are a cinch to make and packed with flavor. With just five ingredients, you can’t go wrong!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the chicken, cheese, and cilantro.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
5-Ingredient Honey Mustard Chicken
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional chicken, this recipe combines the richness of honey with the zing of mustard for a flavor profile that’s sure to please. With just five ingredients and minimal prep work, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick 5-Ingredient Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this simple and nutritious recipe that combines the creaminess of avocado with the crunch of toast. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy mornings or as a healthy pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the avocado.
4. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
5-Ingredient Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
This flavorful chicken dish is a perfect blend of creamy spinach and tangy feta cheese, all wrapped up in a tender and juicy package. With only 5 ingredients, this recipe is quick, easy, and impressive.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each stuffed breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy 5-Ingredient Tomato Basil Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Stir in chopped basil.
4. Add cooked pasta to the tomato mixture, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
5-Ingredient Banana Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast treat that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. These 5-ingredient banana pancakes are a great way to use up ripe bananas and enjoy a tasty morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, flour, sugar, and egg. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if needed.
3. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the batter onto the skillet or griddle.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
5. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes per batch (depending on the number of pancakes).
Simple 5-Ingredient Tuna Salad
Add a burst of flavor to your lunch with this quick and easy tuna salad recipe. With just 5 ingredients, you can have a delicious and healthy snack ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked tuna, mayonnaise, chopped onion, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep time only)
5-Ingredient Lemon Garlic Salmon
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful salmon recipe. In just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously moist and aromatic dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Drizzle the lemon juice evenly over the salmon, followed by the minced garlic and olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick 5-Ingredient Chocolate Mug Cake
Satisfy your chocolate craving with this easy-to-make mug cake that’s ready in just a few minutes! This recipe requires only 5 ingredients and no special equipment.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon melted chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, and sugar.
2. Add milk and stir until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add melted chocolate chips and stir well to combine.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power level.
5. Remove from microwave and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
5-Ingredient BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Elevate your backyard gathering with these tender and flavorful sliders that are perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the smoky goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 8 slices of American cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing a few ounces of pulled pork onto each bun, topping with American cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker)
Easy 5-Ingredient Greek Yogurt Parfait
A quick and healthy dessert that’s perfect for any time of the day! This parfait combines creamy Greek yogurt with sweet honey, crunchy granola, and fresh berries.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup granola
- 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until smooth.
- Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
- Add 1/2 cup of granola on top of the yogurt layer.
- Pile the mixed berries on top of the granola.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh mint leaves over the berries.
- Spoon the remaining yogurt mixture over the berries.
Cooking Time: None! This parfait is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Greek Yogurt Parfait!
5-Ingredient Cheddar Biscuits
Elevate your meal with these easy-to-make cheddar biscuits, requiring just five ingredients and a few simple steps. Perfect for accompanying soups, stews, or as a snack on their own.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese and heavy cream until dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each biscuit.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Simple 5-Ingredient Egg Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies, or as a filling breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed veggies and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the veggies.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Add the soy sauce and stir-fry for another minute, until everything is well combined.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes from start to finish.
5-Ingredient Pesto Chicken Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a wrap that’s packed with protein, herby goodness, and a hint of Italian flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 5 large tortilla wraps
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the cooked chicken breast into thin strips.
3. Spread about 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce on each tortilla wrap, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add a few slices of chicken, some mixed greens, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Roll up the wraps tightly and place them seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick 5-Ingredient Strawberry Smoothie
In a flash, you can whip up a refreshing and healthy strawberry smoothie that’s perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or post-workout pick-me-up. This simple recipe requires just five ingredients and a few minutes of your time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen strawberries
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen strawberries, sliced banana, and Greek yogurt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or texture as desired.
5. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until the smoothie is chilled and thick.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
5-Ingredient Baked Parmesan Zucchini
A simple yet flavorful twist on classic zucchini recipes, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the zucchini slices to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the cheese mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy 5-Ingredient Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe requires just 5 ingredients and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced peppers and onions to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these quick and easy recipes that require just 5 ingredients! From shrimp and pancakes to quesadillas and smoothies, we’ve got you covered for busy weeknights. With fewer ingredients to buy and prep, you can whip up delicious meals in no time. Try our Garlic Butter Shrimp, Peanut Butter Cookies, or Chicken Quesadillas – the perfect solution for a stress-free dinner.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
