15+ Quick Easy Recipes for Busy Weeknights

When you need to get a meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen, quick and easy recipes are the way to go. These recipes can save you time and stress, helping you create delicious meals in a flash. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, you’ll find that these meals can satisfy everyone’s cravings and fit into any busy day.

A variety of quick and easy recipes are available, from comforting pasta dishes to healthy salads. You don’t need fancy ingredients or elaborate techniques to whip up something tasty. With a bit of creativity and the right recipes, you can make enjoyable dishes that are both satisfying and simple to prepare.

1) Quick Chicken Stir-Fry

Chicken stir-fry is a simple and speedy dish perfect for busy nights. You can use fresh vegetables and a tasty sauce to make it flavorful. This meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Start by cutting your chicken into thin slices.

Heat some oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook it until it’s no longer pink.

Next, toss in your choice of chopped veggies, like bell peppers and broccoli. Stir everything together and pour in a sauce made from soy sauce and honey. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is tender.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

Cooking Instructions

1. Slice the chicken into thin pieces.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink.
4. Add bell pepper and broccoli.
5. Stir in soy sauce and honey.
6. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

2) Smooth Banana Smoothies

Banana smoothies are quick, easy, and delicious. They can be made with just a few ingredients you probably already have at home.

You can use fresh or frozen bananas for a thicker texture. Simply blend bananas with yogurt and your choice of milk for a tasty drink.

Want to add some flavor? Try mixing in peanut butter, honey, or a splash of vanilla extract.

Here is how to make a simple banana smoothie.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)

Cooking Instructions

1. Peel and slice the banana.
2. Add the banana, yogurt, and milk to a blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

3) Classic Banana Bread

Classic banana bread is a simple and delicious treat. It’s a great way to use ripe bananas. You can enjoy it for breakfast or as a snack.

To start, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. These include ripe bananas, flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas
• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Optional: ½ cup (75g) nuts or chocolate chips

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mash the ripe bananas in a bowl.
3. Mix in the sugar and eggs.
4. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until just combined.
5. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
6. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
8. Let it cool before slicing. Enjoy!

4) Cheesy Lasagna

Cheesy lasagna is a delicious dish that’s quick to prepare. You can make it in about 30 minutes, then just pop it in the oven. The layers of cheese and sauce create a satisfying meal.

Start by combining ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a creamy filling. You can add ground beef or keep it vegetarian with just cheese and sauce. Layer the noodles, sauce, and cheese, then bake until bubbly.

This recipe is perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. It’s hearty and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions.
3. Mix ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Spread a layer of sauce in a baking dish.
5. Layer noodles, cheese mixture, and sauce.
6. Repeat layers, ending with sauce and mozzarella on top.
7. Bake for 45 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Enjoy!

5) Fluffy Pancakes

Fluffy pancakes are a delightful breakfast treat that you can whip up in no time. You’ll love how soft and tasty they are. Plus, they only require a few basic ingredients.

To make these pancakes, start by mixing flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. In another bowl, combine melted butter, milk, an egg, and a dash of vanilla.

Next, stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C). Pour batter onto the skillet and cook until bubbles form, then flip.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet to 350°F (175°C).
5. Pour batter onto skillet and cook until bubbles form; then flip and cook until golden.

6) Homestyle Meatloaf

Homestyle Meatloaf is a classic dish that is easy to make and always satisfying. This comfort food combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. It’s perfect for a family dinner.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll mix everything in a bowl and form it into a loaf shape. The meatloaf cooks well in the oven, making it simple for you.

You’ll want to bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour. The cooked meatloaf should be nicely browned on the outside.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf.
4. Place the loaf in a baking dish.
5. Bake for 1 hour until browned and cooked through.

7) Tasty Chicken Goujons

Chicken goujons are easy to make and delicious. You can serve them as a snack or a main dish. They are perfect for everyone.

To start, cut chicken breasts into strips. Then, dip each strip in egg, followed by breadcrumbs. This gives them a nice crunch when cooked.

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the goujons for about 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.

You can also bake them in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for around 15-20 minutes.

Serve your chicken goujons with your favorite dipping sauce. They taste great with ketchup, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 egg
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cut chicken into strips.
2. Beat the egg in a bowl.
3. Dip chicken strips in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
5. Fry goujons for 5 minutes on each side until golden.
6. (Optional) Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.

8) Leek and Potato Soup

Leek and potato soup is a warm and comforting dish. It’s perfect for cold days and only takes a short time to prepare. This soup is creamy and full of flavor, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner.

You will need just a few simple ingredients. Start with fresh leeks and potatoes to get the best taste. The cooking process is easy, allowing you to enjoy your meal quickly.

Ingredients

• 2 large leeks
• 3 medium potatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Clean and slice the leeks and onion.
2. Peel and cube the potatoes.
3. In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the leeks and onion, cooking until soft.
5. Stir in the potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Blend the soup until smooth, then season with salt and pepper.

9) Broccoli and Stilton Soup

Broccoli and Stilton soup is a delicious option for a quick meal. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. This comforting soup is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

To prepare, start by sautéing some onion in a pan. Add fresh broccoli florets and cook them for a few minutes. Then, pour in vegetable stock and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender.

Once cooked, blend the soup until it’s smooth. Stir in crumbled Stilton cheese for that rich taste. Serve hot and enjoy this tasty dish.

Ingredients

• 1 onion
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 medium potatoes
• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 1 cup Stilton cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan.
2. Sauté the chopped onion for 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in vegetable stock and bring to a simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Blend the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in Stilton cheese and season with salt and pepper before serving.

10) Crispy Potato Wedges

Crispy potato wedges are a tasty side dish that’s easy to make. You can serve them with burgers, sandwiches, or enjoy them on their own.

Start by soaking your potato wedges in hot water for about 10 minutes. This helps them become very crispy when baked.

Next, use olive oil and seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to coat the wedges. Spread them on a baking sheet.

Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 20 minutes, then flip and bake for another 12-15 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Ingredients

• 3 large potatoes (like Russet)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Cut the potatoes into wedges.
3. Soak the wedges in hot water for 10 minutes.
4. Drain and dry the wedges.
5. Toss with olive oil and seasonings.
6. Spread on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip.
8. Bake for another 12-15 minutes until crispy.

11) Tandoori Chicken Delight

Tandoori Chicken Delight is a tasty dish that is simple to make. You marinate chicken in yogurt and spices for flavor and then grill it to perfection. This brings out a smoky taste that everyone loves.

You can enjoy this dish with rice, naan, or a fresh salad. The bright spices and tender chicken will impress your family and friends. It’s a great meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 grams) chicken pieces
• 1 cup (240 ml) plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon tandoori masala
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Mix yogurt, tandoori masala, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and salt in a bowl.
2. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and coat well.
3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat grill to 400°F (200°C).
5. Grill chicken for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

12) Savory Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Savory stuffed chicken breasts are a delightful and easy dish to prepare for dinner. You can fill them with a creamy mixture that adds flavor and moisture to the chicken.

To make this recipe, you’ll need skinless, boneless chicken breasts. You can stuff them with seasoned cream cheese, herbs, and spices.

Once stuffed, bread the chicken with breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown and cooked through. This creates a delicious outer layer while keeping the stuffing moist inside.

These stuffed chicken breasts go well with a side of vegetables or rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and stuff with the cream cheese mixture.
4. Dip stuffed breasts in breadcrumbs until coated.
5. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, until cooked through.

13) Wholesome Stir-Fry

A wholesome stir-fry is a quick and easy meal packed with fresh vegetables and protein. You can customize it to your taste and what you have on hand.

Start with colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Add your choice of protein, such as chicken, tofu, or shrimp, to make it filling.

The sauce can be a simple mix of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil for flavor. This dish cooks in one pan, making cleanup quick and easy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed (or tofu)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add sesame oil and let it warm.
3. Cook the chicken (or tofu) until golden brown.
4. Add the veggies and stir-fry for about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and honey, mixing well.
6. Serve over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy!

14) Hearty Sandwiches

Hearty sandwiches are perfect for quick meals that fill you up. You can use a variety of ingredients to suit your taste. Try a classic meat and cheese sandwich or go for something veggie-packed.

A tasty option is a meatball sandwich. Just heat up some meatballs and place them in a sub roll. Top with marinara sauce and cheese, then broil until bubbly.

Another favorite is a grilled cheese with a twist. Add slices of tomato or cooked bacon for extra flavor. Toast it on a skillet until the bread is golden brown.

Pulled pork sandwiches also make a great choice. Slow-cook the pork with your favorite barbecue sauce, then pile it on a bun. Serve with coleslaw for crunch.

Ingredients

• Meatballs
• Sub rolls
• Marinara sauce
• Cheese
• Bread
• Tomato
• Cooked bacon
• Pulled pork
• Barbecue sauce
• Buns
• Coleslaw

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat meatballs in a saucepan.
2. Place meatballs in sub rolls and add marinara sauce.
3. Top with cheese and broil until melted.
4. For grilled cheese, add extras, then toast until golden.
5. Slow-cook pulled pork with barbecue sauce.
6. Serve pulled pork on buns with coleslaw.

15) Snappy Quesadillas

Snappy quesadillas are a quick, delicious meal that you can prepare in minutes. They are perfect for a busy day or when you’re feeling hungry.

You can fill them with cheese, veggies, or even leftover meats. Just grab some tortillas and your favorite ingredients.

Add cheese to one half of the tortilla and any other fillings you like. Fold the tortilla over and cook it in a hot skillet for a few minutes.

Flip it over until it’s golden brown and the cheese is melted. Slice and serve with salsa or guacamole.

Ingredients

• Flour or corn tortillas
• Shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)
• Optional fillings: cooked chicken, black beans, peppers, or mushrooms
• Salsa or guacamole for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet.
3. Add cheese and desired fillings to one half.
4. Fold the tortilla over the fillings.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Once golden and crispy, remove and slice.
7. Enjoy!