Stop Wasting Time In The Kitchen Try 29 Quick Recipes

Long days leave little time for cooking. Standing in the kitchen too long can feel like a chore. Stop wasting time in the kitchen, try 29 quick recipes that make life easier. Each meal comes together fast with simple steps and good taste. Less time cooking means more time for everything else.

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.

Avocado Toast

Various avocado toasts with toppings including cherry tomatoes, fried eggs, black olives, and feta cheese on a parchment-lined surface.
Avocado Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Start your day with a light and quick option that’s ready in no time. Avocado Toast is perfect when you need something simple but hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s all about efficiency while enjoying something wholesome. Skip the hassle and get straight to enjoying your meal.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you’re low on time but still crave something fulfilling, Bang Bang Shrimp comes to the rescue. It’s fast, flavorful, and gets you to your plate without a ton of preparation. Perfect for those moments when cooking feels overwhelming. Just toss it together in no time and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cut unnecessary steps and go straight for a crispy bite with Crunchy Onion Rings. It’s a great way to whip up a quick snack while spending less time in the kitchen. No overthinking—just a simple way to add crunch to your day. Keeping it easy never tasted so good.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Rice Paper Rolls

Close-up of sliced spring rolls filled with rice, avocado, purple cabbage, and sesame seeds, arranged on a white plate.
Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Skip the complicated process and let Rice Paper Rolls offer you a refreshing alternative. Quick to put together, they make for a handy meal when you need simplicity. It’s a practical and no-fuss option for busy days. You’ll love how easy it is to have something this delicious.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

Dubai Chocolate

Close-up of sliced dessert bars with layers of chocolate, crumbly filling, and green topping, garnished with chopped pistachios.
Dubai Chocolate. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you’re in a rush but need a sweet treat, Dubai Chocolate has your back. It’s rich and decadent without requiring hours of kitchen work. Perfect for indulging without wasting time on complicated recipes. Just enjoy every bite without the extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Skip the long prep times with a quick fix like Kung Pao Chicken. Its speedy process doesn’t compromise on bold flavors you’ll appreciate. Perfect for a busy day when you need something filling without too much fuss. Get your meal ready without wasting precious time.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Dense Bean Salad

A spoonful of chickpea salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, parsley, and feta cheese being served from a bowl.
Dense Bean Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a quick and effortless meal, Dense Bean Salad makes a great choice. It’s healthy, filling, and takes next to no time to assemble. Say goodbye to long prep sessions and hello to a meal ready in minutes. Keep it simple, yet fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

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.

Cut down on long processes and get straight to a flavorful solution with Easy Bibimbap. It’s a handy way to enjoy something hearty without spending too much time cooking. Fast and effective, it’s ideal for those packed days. Make it quick and enjoy something delicious.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Reduce the stress of complex recipes with a faster take on Homemade Lasagna. It’s perfect for getting a comforting meal on the table without hours of work. Enjoy that layered goodness without making it complicated. Just assemble and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Potato Salad

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

Simplify your day with the creamy and hassle-free goodness of Potato Salad. It’s a handy option for busy moments when you need something quick that still feels filling. Straightforward and ready in no time. It’s all about saving time while enjoying something basic.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Firecracker Meatballs

A plate of meatballs topped with sauce, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions on a bed of white rice.
Firecracker Meatballs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spend less time in the kitchen with an option like Firecracker Meatballs. These are easy to prepare while still packing plenty of flavor into every bite. The process is streamlined so you can enjoy your meal sooner. Get straight to the fun of eating without all the work.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Meatballs

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Enjoy a time-saving option with something as simple as Antipasto Salad. It’s quick to assemble while still offering variety in every bowl. No need to spend ages prepping—just mix and enjoy. A great choice when time is tight.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

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.

Simplify your meals with the flavor-filled ease of Sesame Chicken. Quick to prepare, it makes for a dish in less time than you’d expect. Perfect for those moments when you’re rushing but need something fulfilling. Cut back on kitchen time without cutting back on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Don’t overthink your busy day, make Kimchi Stew for a quick and comforting option. It’s ready faster than you’d imagine without sacrificing depth in each bite. A hot meal doesn’t have to take hours. Keep things efficient yet hearty.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Skip the endless steps and whip up something easy like Bacon Wrapped Smokies. They’re great when you want something enjoyable without the extra prep. Quick and straightforward, they’re ready in no time. Save time and still have a fun treat to eat.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Salmon Caesar Salad

Close-up of a Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, shredded chicken, grated cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Salmon Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

No need to spend hours tossing ingredients for something fancy. Salmon Caesar Salad is the fuss-free solution for a wholesome meal that feels fresh yet effortless. Quick to whip up, yet full of flavor in every bite. Get the best of ease and taste in one easy dish.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Caesar Salad

Funeral Potatoes

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.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cut the time you spend in the kitchen with something comforting and easy. Funeral Potatoes can be prepped fast while delivering a warm, cheesy delight. It’s the go-to dish when you’re looking for quick and perfect solutions. Perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

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.

Streamline your dinner routine with something hearty and quick to cook. Pork Chops are simple to make, packed with flavor, and ready in no time. You’ll love how fast you get from the kitchen to enjoying your meal. Skip the hassle and enjoy a quick fix for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

Grilled Peppers

Grilled red and yellow bell peppers with char marks, topped with crumbled feta cheese and garnished with herbs.
Grilled Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Stop wrestling with complicated recipes when time is tight. Grilled Peppers are the answer for a quick veggie option that’s easy to handle. Toss them on the grill for bold flavor in record time. A simple way to pack your plate with something fresh and fast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peppers

Queso Dip

Close-up of creamy cheese dip being poured over chopped tomato salsa with diced onions and cilantro.
Queso Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want snacks without dragging out the prep, there’s an easy way. Queso Dip comes together quickly for a warm, cheesy treat that pairs with nearly anything. Just a few steps and you’re ready to enjoy it. Skip over the fuss, you only need minutes.
Get the Recipe: Queso Dip

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Why spend extra time prepping when you’ve got a simple option for a tasty bite, Ham and Cheese Sliders are easy to assemble and bake without stretching your schedule. A filling and flavorful choice, ready in a snap. Bring back time-saving meals to your routine.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Don’t let cooking eat up your evening when there’s a simpler choice. Vegetable Stir Fry makes it easy to whip up a colorful meal that cooks fast while being adaptable to what you’ve got. It’s a quick fix for busy nights without sacrificing flavor. Back in action in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of folded tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and herbs, garnished with cilantro.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Forget spending hours slaving over dinner prep. Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas are the quick-to-make option when you’re craving bold flavors. Fast, simple, and big on taste, these quesadillas don’t waste your time. Dinner done, delicious, and ready almost instantly.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Tzatziki

A bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce garnished with chopped dill and a swirl of olive oil. Fresh dill and garlic are nearby.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When prepping dips feels like too much, go with something easy and fresh. Tzatziki comes together quickly, giving you a creamy and tangy option that pairs perfectly with snacks or meals. You’ll only need a little time to make something flavorful. Perfect for speeding up your meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Skip complicated dinners and stick to one-pan options that save time. Easy Chicken Casserole lets you combine simple steps into a hearty dinner that’s ready fast. It’s ideal for feeding your family without sinking hours into cooking. A time-saving fix with great results.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whenever you need a quick dish to throw together, you’ve got a reliable fix. Macaroni Salad works perfectly for a meal or side that comes together in no time. It’s simple, fast, and ready to go for whatever occasion. Cooking doesn’t have to drag on anymore.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

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.

Skip over lengthy recipes to bring comfort food straight to your plate. Mac and Cheese is your go-to for cheesy goodness that doesn’t take forever to make. Minimal prep but packed with flavor, it’s ready in no time. A quick option when you need to save on time.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Close-up view of cooked bacon strips and fried eggs on a white plate, garnished with parsley.
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Put the pan away and make mornings quicker with smart tools. Crispy Air Fryer Bacon cooks fast and easily without much cleanup involved. It’s the easiest, tastiest way to prepare your favorite breakfast side. Time saved without compromising on crispiness.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

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.

No need to fuss over international flavors for hours. Thai Drunken Noodles deliver bold taste while being incredibly quick to throw together. Perfect for when you’re craving something different but don’t want to waste time. A stress-free dish with lots of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

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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