15+ Easy Food Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Cooking can be simple and enjoyable, even on your busiest days. With easy food recipes, you can create delicious meals with minimal effort and time. With the right ingredients and a little guidance, you can whip up satisfying dishes that your family will love.

Whether you’re juggling work, school, or other responsibilities, making dinner doesn’t have to be a hassle. These recipes are designed to help you make the most out of your kitchen with straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, ensuring you can serve tasty meals without stress.

1) Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that’s simple and quick to make. You’ll need just a few basic ingredients: spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. This dish is perfect when you want something tasty in a hurry.

Start by boiling water and cooking your spaghetti according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan and add sliced garlic. Cook until the garlic is golden but not burnt.

Once the spaghetti is done, drain it and toss it in the pan with the garlic oil. Sprinkle red pepper flakes for some heat, and mix everything well. Your dish is ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
• ½ cup olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
• Salt, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add sliced garlic and cook until golden.
4. Drain spaghetti and add it to the pan.
5. Sprinkle red pepper flakes and mix well. Enjoy!

2) Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a simple and fresh dish that is perfect for any meal. It combines ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. The colors of the ingredients also make it look appealing.

To make it, just slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into thick pieces. Arrange them on a plate, alternating between the two. Add fresh basil leaves on top for added flavor.

Drizzle olive oil over the salad and, if you like, a balsamic glaze for some sweetness. This dish is refreshing and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for many.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced thick
• 12 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thick
• Fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Balsamic glaze (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into thick pieces.
2. Arrange the slices on a plate, alternating between tomato and mozzarella.
3. Add fresh basil leaves on top.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze if desired.

3) Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo is a delicious and creamy dish that is easy to make at home. You can prepare it quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken and rich Alfredo sauce over pasta is comforting and satisfying.

To make Chicken Alfredo, you typically use chicken breasts, pasta, and a creamy sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. You can cook everything in one pan, which makes for easy cleanup.

This recipe is great for families or when you have friends over. Pair it with a simple salad or bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat and cook chicken until golden and cooked through.
3. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Add cooked pasta and mix well. Season with salt and pepper.

4) Vegan Buddha Bowl

A Vegan Buddha Bowl is a delicious and colorful meal that is easy to make. You can include a variety of ingredients like grains, greens, and proteins. This dish is not only healthy but also filling.

You might start with a base of quinoa or brown rice. Add some chickpeas for protein and sweet potatoes for sweetness. Fresh vegetables like kale or spinach can add crunch and nutrients.

For a tasty dressing, try a tahini or lemon sauce. Pour it over your bowl just before serving. This brings all the flavors together.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa or brown rice
• 1 can chickpeas
• 1 sweet potato, diced
• 2 cups kale or spinach
• 2 tablespoons tahini or lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook quinoa or rice according to package instructions.
2. Roast sweet potato cubes at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes.
3. Sauté kale until wilted.
4. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
5. Drizzle with tahini or lemon juice. Enjoy!

5) Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad is a tasty and healthy dish you can easily make at home. It’s refreshing and packed with nutrients. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and dressings.

To start, you’ll need cooked quinoa. This grain is a great source of protein and fiber. Add fresh veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, and tomatoes for color and crunch. You can also sprinkle in some chickpeas for extra texture.

A simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice brightens up the flavors. Feel free to mix in herbs like parsley or cilantro too.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 can chickpeas, drained
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
2. In a pot, boil the water and add quinoa.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until cooked.
4. Let it cool, then fluff with a fork.
5. Combine quinoa with veggies and chickpeas in a bowl.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well.

6) Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and delicious dish that you can easily make at home. They are perfect for a filling dinner and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

You can use ground beef, turkey, or even vegetables for stuffing. Add rice, tomatoes, and cheese for extra flavor. The peppers become tender and tasty as they bake.

These peppers are simple to prepare and make for a great family meal. You can even make them ahead of time and heat them up later.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned.
4. Mix cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and seasonings into the meat.
5. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with cheese.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes until peppers are tender.

7) BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich

BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are delicious and easy to make. You can prepare them in a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. The pork becomes tender and soaks up the tasty barbecue sauce.

Start by seasoning your pork with spices. You can use salt, pepper, and your favorite barbecue rub. Place the pork in your cooker along with some broth or sauce for extra flavor.

Cook it until the meat is easy to shred. This usually takes about 4-8 hours on low heat. Once done, pull the pork apart with forks and mix it with barbecue sauce.

Serve the pork on toasted buns and add coleslaw for crunch. Enjoy this tasty meal with friends and family!

Ingredients

• 3 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon pepper
• Buns for serving
• Coleslaw (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Season the pork with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
2. Place the pork in a slow cooker.
3. Pour in the beef broth.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Shred the pork with forks.
6. Mix in the barbecue sauce.
7. Serve on buns with coleslaw if desired.

8) Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp tacos are a quick and tasty meal you can enjoy any night of the week. They feature juicy shrimp wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with fresh ingredients.

You can season your shrimp with just salt and pepper or add spices for extra flavor. A crunchy slaw made from cabbage pairs perfectly with the shrimp.

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a burst of freshness. You can also add creamy sauce or salsa to kick up the flavor.

Ready in about 20 minutes, these tacos are easy and satisfying. Enjoy them as a fun, filling dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 small tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• Lime wedges
• Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, or creamy sauce

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F or 175°C).
2. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
3. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
4. Warm tortillas in a separate pan for 1-2 minutes.
5. Assemble tacos: place shrimp in tortillas, then add cabbage and desired toppings.
6. Serve with lime wedges. Enjoy!

9) Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are a fun and healthy alternative to traditional pasta. You can make them quickly and pair them with delicious pesto for an easy meal.

To start, you need fresh zucchini. Cut the zucchini into long noodle shapes using a spiralizer or a peeler. This gives you a light and fresh base for your dish.

Next, prepare pesto. You can make your own with basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil, or use store-bought. Toss the zoodles with the pesto until they are well coated.

You can also add cherry tomatoes or grated cheese for extra flavor. Serve this dish cold for a refreshing meal or warm it up slightly for a comforting option.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup fresh basil
• 1/4 cup nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 garlic clove
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Spiralize or peel the zucchinis into noodle shapes.
2. In a food processor, blend basil, nuts, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Toss the zoodles with the pesto until well mixed.
4. Add optional cherry tomatoes or cheese if desired.
5. Serve immediately or chill for a refreshing meal.

10) Chicken Caesar Wrap

The Chicken Caesar Wrap is a perfect choice for a quick lunch. It’s easy to make and packed with flavors. You can use pre-cooked chicken, which saves time.

Start by mixing your ingredients in a large bowl. Combine chicken, lettuce, Caesar dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything until it’s well coated.

Wrap the mixture in a tortilla for a great portable meal. You can also add croutons for extra crunch. These wraps are not only tasty but satisfying too.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, torn
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup croutons
• 4 large tortillas

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Toss until well combined.
3. Lay a tortilla flat and add a portion of the mixture.
4. Sprinkle with croutons and roll up the wrap.
5. Slice in half and enjoy your meal!

11) Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

Teriyaki chicken stir-fry is a quick and delicious meal. You can have it ready in just 30 minutes. It’s packed with colorful veggies and coated in a tasty teriyaki sauce.

For this recipe, you’ll need chicken, broccoli, bell peppers, and onions. You can adjust the vegetables to your liking. The sweet and savory flavor pairs well with rice or noodles.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) chicken breast, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
2. Add chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add vegetables and stir-fry for another 5 minutes.
4. Pour in teriyaki sauce and mix well.
5. Cook for 2 more minutes until everything is heated through.

12) Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken is a simple and tasty dish. The lemon and garlic give the chicken great flavor. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any meal.

To start, you’ll need a whole chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Don’t forget to squeeze fresh lemons and add garlic cloves for that pop of flavor.

Roast the chicken in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Make sure it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let it rest before serving, so the juices stay in.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 5 to 6 pounds)
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh thyme (1 bunch)
• 4 lemons
• 3 heads of garlic (cut in half)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Place thyme inside the cavity of the chicken.
4. Squeeze fresh lemons over the chicken and place halves inside.
5. Add garlic halves around the chicken.
6. Roast for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until done.
7. Let it rest before carving and serving.

13) Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are a delicious and easy meal to prepare. These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and mozzarella. They are perfect for a quick dinner or a hearty lunch.

To make this dish, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Then, prepare your filling by mixing ricotta, spinach, egg, and some parmesan cheese.

Stuff the shells with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Top with marinara sauce and more cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

Ingredients

• 20 large pasta shells
• 15 oz whole milk ricotta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 bunch fresh spinach, blanched and chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, egg, and parmesan.
4. Stuff each shell with the mixture.
5. Spread half the marinara sauce in a baking dish.
6. Place stuffed shells in the dish.
7. Top with remaining marinara and mozzarella.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.

14) Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a comforting dish that’s simple to make. It features tender beef pieces and mushrooms in a creamy sour cream sauce. You can serve it over egg noodles for a satisfying meal.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients, such as ground beef or sliced beef, onions, and fresh mushrooms. The rich sauce adds great flavor and makes it perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) beef (sliced or ground)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 8 ounces (225 g) mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
• 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) flour
• Egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large skillet, brown the beef over medium heat. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms until tender.
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth, then return the beef to the skillet.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in sour cream and cook until heated through.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles. Enjoy!

15) Mango Avocado Salsa

Mango avocado salsa is a delicious and fresh dish that you can whip up in no time. The combination of sweet mango and creamy avocado makes this salsa irresistible. You can serve it with chips or use it as a topping for tacos or grilled chicken.

To make this salsa, start by dicing ripe mangoes and avocados. Then, add some finely chopped red onion and jalapeño for a bit of heat. A squeeze of lime juice will brighten up the flavors.

Cilantro adds a fresh touch, completing the mix. Toss everything together gently to avoid mashing the avocado. Enjoy your tasty creation!

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Dice the mango and avocado into small pieces.
2. Finely chop the red onion and jalapeño.
3. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture.
5. Gently toss to combine and season with salt.