Are you tired of the same old routine when it comes to cooking for one? Do you crave delicious, easy-to-make meals that can be ready in no time? Look no further! In this article, we’re excited to share with you our top 20 quick dinner recipes that are perfect for anyone looking for a culinary boost.
From classic comfort foods like creamy pasta and garlic butter steak, to international flavors like Thai basil beef and Mediterranean chickpea salad, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make, even on the busiest of days.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick lunch option or a solo diner seeking a satisfying dinner solution, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes that are guaranteed to become new favorites. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the convenience of these quick and easy meals!
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make garlic butter steak paired with tender roasted asparagus. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Grill or pan-fry the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve the garlic butter steak with roasted asparagus and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Parmesan
This comforting pasta dish is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms, rich cream, and nutty parmesan cheese. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined with the mushroom cream sauce.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the mushroom cream sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken and couscous. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups water and melted butter.
6. Serve grilled chicken on top of warm couscous.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this bold and creamy recipe! Spicy shrimp, crunchy slaw, and rich avocado crema come together to create a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add shrimp and toss to coat.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare Avocado Crema by mashing ripe avocado with lime juice, salt, and chopped cilantro.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled shrimp onto tortillas, topping with slaw (red onion and cilantro), and dolloping with Avocado Crema.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful Italian-inspired recipe, featuring fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, basil, and tomato.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the Caprese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon with Broccoli
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and flavorful one-pan recipe that combines sweet teriyaki salmon with tender broccoli. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a large skillet with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy cleanup.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down (if they have skin).
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Pour teriyaki sauce evenly over the salmon.
6. Add broccoli florets to the skillet, spreading them out around the salmon.
7. Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 12-15 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 14-17 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
A savory and flavorful vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer for a special occasion. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the brightness of spinach and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Wipe the mushroom caps with a damp cloth and brush with olive oil.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of any stir-fry repertoire, combining tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
5. Add broccoli and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour over the beef and broccoli mixture.
7. Stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute to combine flavors.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
A flavorful and crispy tilapia dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with the richness of parmesan cheese and the crunch of breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tilapia on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the tilapia and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Feta
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful Mediterranean Chickpea Salad featuring crumbled feta, juicy chickpeas, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Margherita Pizza on Naan Bread
Get ready to enjoy a delicious and quick pizza fix with this easy recipe using naan bread!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of naan bread (6-8 pieces)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush naan bread with olive oil.
3. Spread 1-2 tbsp of tomato sauce on each naan piece.
4. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Place naan breads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and naan is crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Pork Chop
This sweet and spicy glaze elevates the flavor of pork chops to new heights. A perfect combination for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado and Egg Toast with Chili Flakes
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines creamy avocado, runny eggs, and a kick of heat from chili flakes. This toast is perfect for a quick morning pick-me-up or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (whole wheat or white)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 pinches of chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Cook in a non-stick pan over medium heat until scrambled.
4. Spread mashed avocado on toasted bread.
5. Top with scrambled eggs and sprinkle with chili flakes, black pepper, and olive oil.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic butter, all in a quick and easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice, white wine (if using), and remaining 1 tablespoon butter until melted.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, rice, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwich
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwich recipe! This vegan-friendly twist on a classic pulled pork sandwich is easy to make and packed with tender, smoky jackfruit goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the jackfruit, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well coated.
3. Transfer the jackfruit mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and slightly caramelized.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading the pulled jackfruit onto the hamburger buns. Top with coleslaw if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory recipe that’s sure to please. This stuffed chicken is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the artichoke-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Thai Basil Beef with Jasmine Rice
This classic Thai dish combines the bold flavors of beef, basil, and chilies with the comforting warmth of jasmine rice. A simple and aromatic meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt to taste
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove beef from the skillet, then add remaining ingredients (except basil). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Return beef to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Stir in chopped Thai basil leaves.
6. Serve beef mixture over cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze with succulent chicken and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the glaze on both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Toss the bell pepper, zucchini, and squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet.
6. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick and Easy Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
Quick and Easy Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg: A Simple and Satisfying Meal
Ingredients:
- 1 package of ramen noodles (any flavor)
- 2 cups water
- 1 large egg
- Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
- Pickled ginger slices or sesame seeds for added flavor (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare the soft-boiled egg by placing it in a separate pot of boiling water for 6-7 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny. Remove from heat and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Once the noodles are cooked, drain and rinse with cold water. Divide the noodles among bowls.
- Top each bowl of noodles with sliced green onions, pickled ginger slices, or sesame seeds if desired.
- Place a soft-boiled egg on top of the noodles in each bowl.
Cooking Time: Approx. 15 minutes
Pesto Zoodles with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
This vibrant and flavorful dish combines the classic Italian sauce pesto with zucchini noodles, sweet cherry tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz zucchinis
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the zucchinis according to package instructions or using a spiralizer.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto, cherry tomatoes, and cooked zoodles. Toss until well coated with pesto.
3. Add pine nuts and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and easy dinner recipes that can be prepared in no time? This collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes has got you covered! From Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Asparagus to Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema, each dish is carefully crafted to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry or something new and adventurous like BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Sandwich, this article has got a recipe that will suit your taste buds. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy your deliciously easy dinner!
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