Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience? As a busy mama, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life and settle for quick fixes that lack excitement. But what if you could have your cake and eat it too – or rather, enjoy a delicious meal without breaking a sweat?
We’ve got good news: we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for busy mamas like you! From one-pot wonders to sheet pan snacks, these quick and easy recipes will become your new go-to’s. Whether you’re short on time or looking for inspiration to spice up your meal routine, this collection has got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll take a culinary journey through pasta dishes, soups, stews, stir-fries, and more – all with one thing in common: they can be whipped up in no time! So sit back, relax, and get ready to devour your way to a happier, healthier you.
One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta
This hearty, comforting dish is a staple for any meal. With its rich and creamy sauce, flavorful chicken, and al dente pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot or Dutch oven to medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
3. Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and basil; stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
15-Minute Sheet Pan Nachos
Get ready for a cheesy, satisfying snack or meal with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 large bag of tortilla chips (your favorite flavor)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, black beans, red bell pepper, and yellow onion.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla chips.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the nachos.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick and Easy Taco Soup
Get ready for a flavorful and filling meal with this simple recipe! This hearty soup is packed with tender beef, vegetables, and taco seasoning, making it perfect for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Beef Stew
This classic beef stew recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and peas, this dish is sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and brown the beef, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, potatoes, carrot, peas, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode for 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Speedy Veggie Stir-Fry
Need a quick and nutritious meal? Look no further! This Speedy Veggie Stir-Fry recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make option that’s ready in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
4. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
5-Ingredient Baked Ziti
This recipe combines the comfort of ziti pasta with a rich and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy cheese crust. With just five ingredients, you can’t go wrong!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. Mix well to combine.
4. Add cooked ziti pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A Deliciously Easy Meal
This recipe yields tender, flavorful pulled pork that’s perfect for sandwiches or wraps. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 hamburger buns or rolls
Instructions:
1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika (if using). Pour the mixture over the pork and onions.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
6. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns or rolls with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
30-Minute Chicken Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish gets a speedy makeover with this 30-minute recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed frozen vegetables and cook until thawed and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in 1-2 eggs (optional) and scramble them into the empty space. Mix well with the vegetables.
6. Add the cooked chicken, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
7. Finally, add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry until the rice is heated through and starting to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Easy Breakfast Burritos for Dinner
Easy Breakfast Burritos for Dinner: A twist on a classic breakfast staple, these burritos make for a satisfying dinner that’s easy to prepare and customize with your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 tortillas (flour or corn)
– 1 pound scrambled eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/2 cup cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), diced
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the scrambled eggs over medium heat until they’re fully set. Set aside.
3. Add the diced sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, black beans, and cilantro. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the burritos are crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp
Quickly cook succulent shrimp with a flavorful garlic butter sauce in just one pan!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the softened butter and let melt.
5. If using white wine, add it to the pan and stir to combine.
6. Return the shrimp to the pan and toss with garlic butter sauce until coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Homemade Pizza Quesadillas
Transform your pizza night into a delicious and easy quesadilla experience! These crispy, cheesy, and savory treats are perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce
– 1/4 cup diced pepperoni
– 1/4 cup diced onions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese mixture on half of the tortilla.
4. Add a spoonful of pizza sauce, diced pepperoni, and onions on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Speedy Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Get ready to savor a flavorful and quick meal with these Speedy Teriyaki Chicken Bowls! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white or brown rice (for serving)
– Sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and diced bell peppers (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger.
4. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and stir to coat the chicken.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve chicken over cooked rice and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and diced bell peppers if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
15-Minute Avocado Toast with Egg
Start your day off right with this creamy, flavorful, and nutritious breakfast recipe that combines the best of both worlds – avocado toast and a fried egg.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Fry an egg in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
4. Place the fried egg on top of the avocado toast.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this easy and indulgent recipe that combines the perfect blend of macaroni, cheese, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and stir in additional cheese if desired (we won’t judge!).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time:
– High pressure cooking time: 5 minutes
– Natural release time: 10 minutes
Easy Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Start your day with a creamy and delicious smoothie that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (or to desired consistency)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, peanut butter, and vanilla yogurt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the milk and blend until well combined.
4. If desired, add honey to sweeten or ice cubes for a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until smooth.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Enjoy your Easy Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie!
Quick Chicken Caesar Wraps
Get ready to wrap up a delicious meal with this speedy recipe! In just 15 minutes, you can have a flavorful and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the wraps by spreading a tablespoon of Caesar dressing on each tortilla.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing 2-3 pieces of chicken on each wrap, followed by some chopped lettuce, croutons, and mozzarella cheese (if using).
5. Fold the wraps in half to enclose the filling.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Enjoy a classic Italian-inspired dish with minimal cleanup! This one-pot wonder combines tender spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and savory flavors in just one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
5. Add the spaghetti to the pot; stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Return the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the spaghetti is al dente.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
5-Minute Microwave Mug Omelette
Elevate your morning routine with this fast and flavorful omelette recipe, cooked to perfection in just 5 minutes!
Ingredients:
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe mug or ramekin.
2. Add butter or non-stick cooking spray, ensuring it covers the bottom of the mug.
3. If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the eggs.
4. Microwave on high for 2 minutes and 30 seconds (2:30).
5. Remove the mug from the microwave, carefully rotating it to ensure even cooking.
6. Return the mug to the microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 3:30-4:00 minutes
Speedy Greek Yogurt Parfait
A quick and refreshing treat that’s perfect for a busy day! This Speedy Greek Yogurt Parfait is a delightful combination of creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and sweet honey, all layered in a tall glass.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a tall glass, layer the Greek yogurt.
2. Drizzle the honey over the yogurt.
3. Sprinkle the granola on top of the honey.
4. Add the mixed berries and drizzle with lemon juice.
5. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with a dollop of yogurt.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Tips:
– Use your favorite type of granola or make your own at home.
– Substitute the mixed berries with other fruits like sliced peaches or mandarin oranges.
– Keep this parfait in the fridge for up to 24 hours before serving.
Enjoy your Speedy Greek Yogurt Parfait!
Quick and Easy Banana Bread
Moist and delicious banana bread that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, 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. Do not overmix.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious homemade banana bread!
Summary
Get ready to cook up some delicious meals with these quick and easy recipes perfect for busy mamas! From one-pot pasta dishes to instant pot stews, sheet pan nachos to homemade pizza quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a speedy stir-fry or a comforting bowl of mac and cheese, these 20 recipes will satisfy your cravings and save you time in the kitchen.
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