Getting dinner on the table can be a challenge, especially when you’re short on time and ingredients. But what if I told you there’s a way to cook up a storm with just 5 ingredients? That’s right, folks! Today we’re counting down our top 18 quick and delicious recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank or taking up too much of your precious time.
From classic comfort foods like pasta and casseroles, to international-inspired dishes and sweet treats, these mouth-watering meals prove that less really is more when it comes to cooking. And the best part? Each one uses 5 ingredients or less, making them perfect for busy home cooks, college students, and even families on-the-go.
So grab your apron and let’s get cooking! We’ll be sharing a new recipe with you every day for the next two weeks, starting with our top pick: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. This decadent yet simple dish is a game-changer for anyone looking to spice up their pasta routine.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 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 2 tbsp. of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add remaining 2 tbsp. of butter and heavy cream to skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the goodness of broccoli, cheese, and rice – perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your grill game with this refreshing twist on classic chicken. Zesty lemon and herbs add a burst of flavor to juicy, perfectly grilled chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the lemon herb mixture.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Avocado Pasta
Transform your pasta dish with a creamy twist! This recipe combines the richness of avocado with the comfort of pasta, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add diced avocado and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
4. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir to combine and let simmer for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats are a perfect pick-me-up when you need a boost of energy and flavor. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re easy to whip up and packed with nutritious goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats and peanut butter. Mix until well combined.
2. Add in the honey and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips and salt.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy bites.
5. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are ready as soon as they’re shaped.
Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Energy Bites!
Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your avocado game with this simple and flavorful recipe, combining the creamy richness of avocados with the sweetness of tomatoes and the tanginess of mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the diced tomato and chopped basil.
3. Stuff each avocado half with a quarter of the tomato-basil mixture.
4. Top each avocado half with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
One-Pot Tomato Basil Soup
This simple yet flavorful soup is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and one pot, you can create a deliciously creamy and aromatic dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the tomatoes, broth, and basil. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
7. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Baked Honey Mustard Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and savory baked salmon recipe, featuring a honey mustard glaze that’s easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 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 or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of dark chocolate chips, resulting in a moist and delicious banana bread that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Spicy Black Bean Tacos
Spicy Black Bean Tacos Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this spicy black bean taco recipe. This vegetarian delight combines the richness of black beans, the crunch of fresh veggies, and a kick of heat from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 minced jalapeño pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the cooked black beans; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Add a flavorful twist to your roasted potatoes with this simple recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese and the pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or add it to your favorite main course for an extra boost of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top of the potatoes and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Salad
Discover a refreshing twist on the classic spinach salad with sweet and tangy strawberries, perfectly balanced by crunchy pecans and creamy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and slice strawberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture; toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese and chopped pecans over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad!
Greek Yogurt Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast by making these light and fluffy Greek yogurt pancakes. With the tanginess of Greek yogurt and sweetness of honey, these pancakes are perfect for a quick morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, egg, and honey until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for another minute.
Cooking Time: 4-6 pancakes (approx. 8-10 minutes)
Teriyaki Glazed Meatballs
A sweet and savory twist on classic meatballs, these Teriyaki Glazed Meatballs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or party appetizer. The combination of tender beef, crunchy glaze, and aromatic soy sauce will have your taste buds singing!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup Teriyaki glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, warm the Teriyaki glaze in a small saucepan over low heat.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with warmed Teriyaki glaze.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Mozzarella Grilled Cheese
Pesto Mozzarella Grilled Cheese: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the creamy and tangy combination of pesto, mozzarella, and crispy bread. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1/4 cup of pesto
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Spread 1/4 cup of pesto on the unbuttered side of one slice of bread.
4. Place one slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto.
5. Place the other slice of bread, buttered side up, on top of the cheese.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-7 minutes
Chili Lime Grilled Corn
Elevate your summer gatherings with this flavorful and colorful twist on traditional grilled corn. The combination of chili flakes, lime juice, and cilantro adds a vibrant and aromatic flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chili flakes, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
No-Bake Peanut Butter Cookies
These no-bake peanut butter cookies are a classic favorite, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal effort to prepare. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the honey until smooth.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
4. Once set, use a cookie scoop or spoon to form into desired shapes.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: None! These cookies are no-bake, so simply refrigerate until ready to serve.
Garlic Herb Butter Steak Bites
Elevate your steak game with these tender and flavorful bites infused with garlic, herbs, and butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, and thyme until well combined.
3. Add steak cubes to the bowl and toss until coated with the garlic herb butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and easy recipes that won’t sacrifice flavor? You’re in luck! This article features 18 mouth-watering dishes made with just 5 ingredients or less. From seafood to desserts, these recipes are perfect for busy home cooks. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, and more. Each recipe is simple to make and packed with flavor, making it easy to get a delicious meal on the table in no time.
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