29 Fast Recipes That Keep Cooking Quick And Stress-free

Ever feel like cooking just takes too long? Well, got a list of 29 quick ideas to make sure time in the kitchen is a breeze and never a drag. These are all about getting in and out fast, but still ending up with something super tasty on the plate. With just a few steps and not a lot of waiting around, these dishes make sure dinner won’t keep anyone tapping their feet.

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Easy Bibimbap

A bowl of bibimbap with sliced beef, egg yolk, carrots, cucumber, greens, and bean sprouts, topped with sesame seeds and red sauce.
Easy Bibimbap. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Easy Bibimbap turns an iconic Korean dish into a quick, no-fuss dinner option. Just toss together some veggies, meat, and rice, then top with a spicy sauce for flavors that wow. It’s a versatile meal that allows for mixing and matching based on what you have at hand. You’ll be sitting down to enjoy it before you know it, making it perfect for those hectic days.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Miso Soup

A bowl of miso soup with tofu cubes, seaweed, and green onions.
Miso Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For those nights when you need a soothing meal fast, Miso Soup is wonderfully straightforward. It’s light, yet fulfilling, and comes together faster than most other dishes. It’s an excellent start to a meal or a soothing dish on its own. The simplicity and quickness make it a staple for hassle-free meals.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro.
Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Turn weeknight dinners into a fiesta with Shrimp Burrito Bowls that are as speedy as they are delicious. They pack a punch of flavor and can be personalized to suit every taste. With minimal prep and cooking time, they’re a winning choice for a quick and tasty meal. It’s a simple way to enjoy big, bold flavors in a flash.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Million Dollar Dip

Close-up of a creamy dish topped with shredded cheese, chopped nuts, bacon bits, and sliced green onions.
Million Dollar Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Million Dollar Dip makes any occasion feel a bit more luxurious without much effort. It’s an easy mix, ready in no time, and perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or a simple family night in. The rich and creamy texture of the dip ensures it’s always a hit. Guests will think you spent hours preparing it.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Dip

Pork Chops

Close-up of a cooked, seasoned pork chop topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped parsley on a dark plate.
Pork Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Juicy and flavorful, Pork Chops are a fast track to a hearty meal. Have them ready in a jiffy, grilling or pan-frying for a delicious solution to weeknight dinner blues. They provide a versatile canvas for a variety of seasonings and sides. Speedy cooking means you can enjoy more relaxation time after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

Potato Salad

Close-up of creamy potato salad with chopped celery and black pepper seasoning.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a side that’s as quick to prepare as it is homely, Potato Salad comes to the rescue. Have it prepped and served in a flash, perfect alongside any main dish. It’s a reliable classic that never disappoints, especially when you’re strapped for time. Plus, it’s a universal favorite at any mealtime rush.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas

Quesadillas filled with rice, beans, and chicken, topped with sour cream and cilantro. Sliced tomato and jalapeño are on the side.
Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Get those senses dancing with Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas prepared fast. No time-consuming prep, just quick cooking for a meal that’s full of flavor. Wrap up your day with a cheesy, chicken-filled bite that’s ready in minutes. They’re the perfect shortcut to a tasty meal that doesn’t skimp on fun.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chicken Quesadillas

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Get your fix of tasty Sesame Chicken without the hassle of dining out. It’s quickly stir-fried, making a typically takeout treat an easy home-cooked meal. This dish marries convenience with a touch of exotic flavor. Best yet, you’ll be surprised how swiftly it all comes together.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Transform a classic pasta into a one-dish wonder with Spaghetti Casserole. It’s a breeze to assemble, bakes rapidly, and is a surefire hit with all ages. If you’re after a comforting meal without the wait, it’s a top-notch pick. Even on your busiest days, this casserole provides a quick and hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Shrimp Tempura

A bowl of crispy fried shrimp with slices of green onions and jalapeños.
Shrimp Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Craving something crispy? Shrimp Tempura is a quick fix to satisfy that need without spending all night cooking. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home and fries up faster than you might think. Serve it up and watch it be the hit of your speedy kitchen lineup.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Need a side dish that’s fast and flavorful? Mexican Street Corn Salad is an instant favorite with its fresh and lively flavors. It’s so quick to put together, making it an ideal choice for a no-fuss meal. Pair it with any main dish, and it completes your meal beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Sweet and Sour Sauce

A spoon rests inside a glass jar filled with a thick, brown liquid.
Sweet and Sour Sauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Create a tangy and delicious Sweet and Sour Sauce in the comfort of your kitchen quickly. It’s the perfect addition to jazz up your meals and snacks. Believe it or not, whipping up this sauce is faster than running to the store. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy and quick to make.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When time is tight and you need comfort without the wait, Mac and Cheese is your go-to. It’s straightforward, combining creamy textures with comforting tones in no time. Kids and adults alike gravitate towards its familiar feel. Ready quickly, it keeps dinner easy and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Close-up of grilled chicken wings with a crispy texture, next to a red bowl of creamy dipping sauce.
Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving something with a bit of a kick? Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings can be made at home for a quick spicy treat. Just season, bake, and in no time, you’re enjoying flavors that pack a punch. They’re perfect for a fast and fuss-free meal that still tastes like you ordered in.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whip up a Vegetable Stir Fry when you need a quick and nutritious meal. It’s all about slicing up some veggies and tossing them into a hot pan. This dish is as speedy as it is healthy, making it perfect for last-minute dinners. And, it’s a great way to use up whatever produce you have.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A plate of creamy penne pasta garnished with chopped parsley and grated cheese, featuring pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. A black fork is resting on the plate.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you want to impress with minimal fuss, Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the answer. Rich flavors come through in every forkful, making it perfect for a quick romantic meal. It cooks up fast, allowing you more time to enjoy the evening. It’s all about making a special dinner simple and swift.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whip up a classy kitchen creation with Penne Alla Vodka without spending the whole night cooking. It turns your evening meal into an express yet impressive dinner. Even when time is scarce, this dish adds a touch of finesse to your dining table. Best of all, it comes together quicker than you’d expect for gourmet pasta.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Meatball Sliders

Close-up of a cheesy meatball slider with a seasoned bun, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. Other sliders are visible in the background.
Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Meatball Sliders are just right for feeding a crowd or enjoying a playful dinner. They come together quickly, filling your home with smells that draw everyone to the table. Each bite is packed with flavor, and they’re versatile enough for any gathering. They provide a simple solution when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Shrimp Scampi

Close-up of cooked shrimp seasoned with herbs and black pepper.
Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

In the time it takes to boil pasta, you can whip up a fabulous Shrimp Scampi. It’s a no-fuss, no-muss meal with a garlic twist that comes together before you know it. Loaded with shrimp and flavor, it’s a must for those busy evenings. Simplicity meets speed for a stress-free seafood dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Mexican Street Corn Dip

Close-up of a blue corn chip dipped in a creamy cheese and vegetable mixture, garnished with cilantro and sliced jalapeños.
Mexican Street Corn Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a quick and easy dip that’s always a crowd-pleaser, Mexican Street Corn Dip never disappoints. It’s an effortless way to bring the bold flavors of the street into your kitchen. Whether for a gathering or a simple family snack, it’s prepared in a snap. Enjoy it with chips or veggies and watch it disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Dip

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring home the popular Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe without the wait or the drive. It cooks faster than you can pick up takeout and tastes just as good, if not better. It’s all about minimal effort for maximum flavor. It’s perfect for a quick meal that satisfies any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need a quick classic, Pasta Carbonara is the way to go with its clean, rich flavors. It’s one of those magical recipes where simple ingredients come together fast and taste incredible. It’s perfect when you’re pressed for time but still want a meal that feels homemade. Quick cooking means enjoying more time eating and less time cooking.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish.
Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With Thai Drunken Noodles, you get to devour the explosive flavors of Thailand in a snap. Stir-fry some noodles with a handful of ingredients, and you’re all set. This dish offers the ultimate shortcut to a flavorful journey. And, it’s guaranteed to be a hit for anyone looking for a quick spice fix.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Close-up of a Beef Enchilada Tortellini dish topped with ground meat, corn, black beans, and chopped green onions.
Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spice up your dinnertime with Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini without the long hours in the kitchen. This dish packs a flavor punch and couldn’t be simpler to throw together. It’s the ideal choice for those who like it hot and want it now. Turn up the heat and have dinner served in a snap.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Tortilla Pizza

Four tortilla pizzas on a wooden cutting board.
Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Get your pizza fix without the wait with Tortilla Pizza. Grab a tortilla, slap on your favorite toppings, and bake for a crisp, thin crust pizza in minutes. It’s a creative and speedy way to fulfill those pizza cravings. Plus, it’s so easy that it practically makes itself.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Marry Me Salmon

Grilled salmon fillet topped with a creamy herb sauce, served next to a portion of white rice.
Marry Me Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When looking for a quick yet elegant dinner, Marry Me Salmon fits the bill. This dish provides a gourmet experience without the long preparation typically associated with seafood. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something special. It combines quality and efficiency elegantly.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Salmon

Veggie Pizza

Someone taking a slice of veggie pizza.
Veggie Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Opt for a Veggie Pizza when you’re aiming for something quick, easy, and loaded with greens. Prepping it is a breeze, especially with pre-made pizza dough. Top it off with all your favorite vegetables for a meal that’s as fast as it is fresh. It’s an effortlessly tasty way to enjoy your veggies.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

Tuscan Pasta

A close-up of a plate of Creamy Tuscan Pasta topped with a rich white sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuscan Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a dinner that feels like a trip to Italy but without the fuss, Tuscan Pasta is your go-to. It marries the rich flavors of Tuscany in a dish that comes together fast. No need for hours in the kitchen; this meal is about simplicity and speed. It’s a straightforward way to add some Italian flair to your weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Embrace the fun and flavor of sushi without the roll with a Sushi Bake. It’s like a deconstructed sushi roll, baked and ready to scoop onto seaweed sheets. This inventive dish is surprisingly quick to assemble and cook. It’s a novel approach to enjoying sushi flavors minus the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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