I Make 29 Of My Best Recipes When Everything Else Feels Like A Fail

Sometimes, nothing goes right and the day feels heavy. That is the perfect time to make 29 of the best recipes. Each one brings comfort, joy, and good smells to the kitchen. Mixing, stirring, and tasting make the mood better. These recipes feel like small wins when the world feels hard.

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Close-up of a cheeseburger with a sesame bun, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and beef patty.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When nothing else works, Grilled Chicken Sandwich offers a simple fix with its balance of tender chicken and perfect seasoning. Packed between bread, it’s an easy meal that delivers every time. Great for lunch or dinner, it’s a go-to when you’re out of ideas. Just warm, crisp, and delicious to keep things on track.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Lamb Chops

Grilled lamb chops garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Lamb Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rich and full of flavor, Lamb Chops come together quickly and make you feel like you’ve mastered a great meal. Each bite is hearty and feels like effort well-rewarded. It’s perfect when time is tight, but you want something that feels a little elegant. A dinner rescue that’s wholesome and foolproof.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Chops

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm and soft, Garlic Knots are perfect for when you need a quick side or snack that hits the spot. With just the right amount of garlic flavor, they never feel like too much. The texture is exactly what you need for dipping or eating on their own. So simple, yet they pull you out of any cooking rut.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Layers of hearty ingredients make Hamburger Casserole a winner when you’re craving something easy and delicious. It’s comforting in a way that feels like home, packing all the flavors you’d want in one dish. Cooking for a crowd or just yourself, it works every time. It’s straightforward, filling, and never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

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.

Crispy, flavorful, and ready to impress, Bang Bang Shrimp takes basic ingredients and turns them into something you’ll crave. The balance of crunch and sauce makes it feel effortlessly put together. Quick to make yet packed with flavor, it’s a great way to switch things up. Ideal when you don’t know what to make but need something fantastic.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Ice Cream Cake

Close-up of strawberry shortcake slices topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Layers of cake, cream, and strawberries are visible.
Ice Cream Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When desserts seem too complex, Ice Cream Cake offers a simple way to impress everyone with ease. Combining layers of creamy and sweet, it’s an effortless way to make anyone smile. Perfect for any occasion or just because you need something easy to assemble. A sweet treat that guarantees success.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s something about the way Crunchwrap Supreme combines textures that makes it irresistible when all else fails. Crispy, soft, and packed with flavor, it’s like a complete meal handheld and wrapped up. Whether for lunch or dinner, it just works with minimal effort. You’ll appreciate how fast it comes together and still feels like an indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

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.

Filling and easy to toss together, Dense Bean Salad surprises with its simplicity and hearty bite. Full of texture that keeps things interesting, it’s ideal for when you’re out of cooking ideas. Perfect for meals without much fuss, it’s quick to prepare and works as a side or main. Refreshing, no matter how busy your day gets.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

French Onion Dip

Bowl of creamy dip topped with chopped chives and black pepper, next to pieces of toasted bread.
French Onion Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and full of flavor, French Onion Dip is always a hit whether you’re alone or sharing with others. Best enjoyed with something crunchy, it’s a quick fix for when you’re lost on what to prepare. With a classic taste that’s hard to beat, it’s a snack you’ll keep coming back to. Simple, no-stress, and ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

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.

Easy to put together, Avocado Toast is your answer for something nutritious that doesn’t require much thought. It’s versatile enough that you can adjust whatever mood you’re in. Whether you keep it basic or dress it up, it always feels complete. Great for any quick breakfast or snack fix.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

Baked Chicken Thighs

Roasted chicken thighs with sliced potatoes garnished with herbs.
Baked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Juicy and cooked just right, Baked Chicken Thighs take minimal effort but feel like you spent hours making them. With so much flavor in each bite, they work perfectly as a main dish. There’s no room to go wrong with a recipe that keeps things simple yet fulfilling. When everything else fails, they’ll never let you down.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Thighs

Asparagus Casserole

Cheesy asparagus casserole on a plate with a fork.
Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and wholesome, Asparagus Casserole is perfect for nights when you need a comforting dish done quickly. It’s a simple way to bring the best out of fresh ingredients in a no-fail meal. Whether as a side or main, it’s a dish that doesn’t demand much but gives a lot. Warm and easy to serve, it belongs on any table.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

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.

Light yet filling, Salmon Caesar Salad is a perfect balance of protein and crunch when you want an easy meal. Tossed together quickly, it’s simple but feels complete on its own. Whether for lunch or dinner, it’s a refreshing option that checks all the boxes. A dependable recipe when you can’t decide what to make.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Caesar Salad

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Three cooked chicken breasts in a creamy sauce, topped with herbs and sun-dried tomatoes, presented in a round dish.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With its tender, flavorful finish, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken feels like it took all day to make, but the slow cooker does the work. It’s a low-effort way to create something that feels special without stressing. Whatever the occasion, it’s a surefire hit for any table. Just a fantastic recipe that’s hard to mess up.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

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.

Rich and indulgent, Dubai Chocolate is the fix you need when only chocolate will do. Its incredible flavor feels luxurious yet approachable for any at-home treat. Enjoying this doesn’t require much effort or skill in the kitchen, and it impresses every time. A sweet escape when baking anything else feels like too much work.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper.
Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When nothing’s going right, a hearty and flavorful Mushroom Pizza can be the perfect escape. The earthy richness combined with the simplicity of preparation brings comfort like no other. Its melt-in-your-mouth goodness makes it easy to whip up on a whim. Plus, it’s great for winding down and enjoying a cozy evening.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes, a homemade Orange Chicken can fix everything with its vibrant and tangy flavors. It’s quick to prepare and fills the house with a warm, inviting aroma that everyone loves. Perfect for those moments where you just need something truly fulfilling to brighten your mood. A balance of sweet and tasty that doesn’t feel overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A classic go-to when everything else feels complicated is the layered goodness of 7 Layer Dip. It’s simple, comforting, and the textures come together in a way no other dish does. Great for relaxed evenings, it’s always a crowd-pleaser and an easy win. Whether you’re scooping solo or sharing, it’s a hit every time.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

French Onion Soup

A savory dish of French Onion Soup, topped with melted cheese and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

The deep and rich flavors of French Onion Soup make it feel like a warm hug in a bowl. Few things are as fulfilling as sipping a wholesome broth while enjoying the soft texture of a topping. It’s something easy to prepare when there’s a need for coziness and calm. Sometimes, this dish is just what you need without the hassle of fancy ingredients.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Leg of Lamb

Two roasted lamb shanks on a plate with rosemary and caramelized onions, with stacked plates in the background.
Leg of Lamb. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Choosing Leg of Lamb can make everything feel a little more luxurious yet balanced. When you’re struggling to put something great together, its tender richness is hard to beat. A dish like this speaks for itself without needing much. Perfect for moments when you’re looking for something straightforward yet impressive.
Get the Recipe: Leg of Lamb

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.

When recipes feel too complicated, the simplicity of Easy Chicken Casserole saves the day. It’s hearty, filling, and has that home-style comfort in every bite. Great for whipping up a dish that feels effortless yet complete. This one’s for evenings when you need something quick and dependable.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Rhubarb Pie

Slice of strawberry pie on a plate with two black spoons beside it.
Rhubarb Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

The comforting balance of tangy and sweet makes Rhubarb Pie a brilliant dessert choice. It’s a classic treat that feels like a reward after a rough day. With its familiar texture and ease of preparation, you’ll find yourself feeling grounded after one slice. Perfect for wrapping up the day on a sweet note.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Pie

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.

Bringing a little restaurant vibe into your kitchen can be as simple as making Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. It’s easy to recreate the familiar flavors without much effort. Perfect for putting a delicious twist on stressful days. It’s a crowd-pleasing favorite in every home.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A dish like Hashbrown Casserole needs no introduction for comfort food lovers. It’s creamy, cheesy, and easy to bake when you need something simple yet fantastic. Everyone loves its smooth textures without much fuss. Perfect for moments where time and energy are not on your side.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The irresistible mix of bold flavors and soft bread make Italian Sliders stand out when you’re short on ideas. They’re easy to assemble and feel like you’ve put in great effort without actually doing so. Quick to prepare and fun to eat, they’re sure to become a favorite. Perfect for winding down and enjoying with good company.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Mushroom Stroganoff

Creamy mushroom sauce with herbs and sliced mushrooms, stirred with a wooden spoon.
Mushroom Stroganoff. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Few dishes can match the creamy comfort of Mushroom Stroganoff on challenging days. It’s filling and comes together with just the right balance of flavor and texture. A reliable recipe that doesn’t take hours to perfect. Great for quiet meals when simple and hearty dishes are all you need.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Stroganoff

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, all you need is the taste of a homemade Easy Meatloaf Recipe to lift your mood. It’s one of those dependable dishes that come through when you least expect it. Ready in no time, it’s perfect for any occasion where you want something grounding. Simple preparation, big reward—it never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nothing brings a comforting Italian vibe home quite like Pasta alla Norma. It’s a go-to whenever cooking feels like a challenge yet you want something flavorful and filling. Great for making an effortless meal that feels a little special. You’ll love its simplicity and authenticity without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those moments where everything feels like a fail, Wild Rice Casserole comes to the rescue. Its hearty texture and easy preparation make it more than just a dish it’s a lifesaver. With flavors that feel grounded and comforting, it’s great for stress-free dinners. A reliable option for when simple yet delicious meals are needed.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

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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