I Made 29 Of My Best Recipes When I Needed A Win In The Kitchen

Bad days happen, and sometimes nothing feels easy. Even cooking starts to feel too hard. The fridge looks full, but nothing sounds good. The mind feels tired, and the heart just wants something simple that works. That’s when 29 of the best recipes came out, made at a time when a win in the kitchen was needed most.

Loaded Tater Tots close-up topped with crumbled bacon, drizzled with ranch dressing, and garnished with sliced green onions on a white plate.
Loaded Tater Tots. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunchwrap Supreme

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

Wraps filled with layers of fresh and hearty goodness make for a crowd-pleasing treat. Crunchwrap Supreme is all about bold flavors stuffed in a perfectly folded tortilla. Every bite combines textures that bring life to your plate. Perfect for when you need a win in the kitchen with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

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.

A bowl of rich and comforting flavors is always a great choice. French Onion Soup is a classic, offering deep, caramelized onions and a touch of warmth in every sip. It’s a winner for bringing simple ingredients to life with rich flavor. Great if you’re craving something hearty and delicious.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

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.

Soft and fluffy bread with a garlicky twist never gets old. Garlic Knots are the perfect combination of comfort and flavor without the fuss of a complex recipe. Their irresistible aroma fills your space, making them a winner at any meal. A little creativity goes a long way in completing your food spread.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

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.

Packing in protein and texture, you’ve got one solid dish to lean on. Dense Bean Salad is filled to the brim with a mix of beans that offer a fulfilling bite. It’s the kind of recipe that satisfies when you’re looking to mix things up without much hassle. An easy-to-make staple worth adding to your lineup.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

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 bites paired with creamy, full-flavored sauces, what’s not to love. Bang Bang Shrimp gives you the perfect combination of crunch and bold seasoning. This recipe is an effortless way to win big with minimal time in the kitchen. The kind of dish you whip out when flavor takes center stage.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A go-to dish when you need comfort and convenience in one pan. Egg Casserole is loaded with ingredients baked together to create one harmonious meal. It’s perfect to make ahead when you need something simple yet dependable. Great for any time of day, from breakfast to dinner.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

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.

Juicy and well-seasoned layers come together between two slices. Grilled Chicken Sandwich is all about creating a solid meal without much extra effort. A bit of smoky flavor and tender meat give it that perfect finish. Ideal when you need something quick but packed with taste.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Asparagus Casserole

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

When hearty meets fresh, you’ve got yourself a treat. Asparagus Casserole transforms simple ingredients into something comforting for everyone. A baked dish that’s both flavorful and wholesome without overwhelming your prep time. A win in any busy kitchen scenario.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

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.

Fresh, smooth, and all kinds of flexible you can’t go wrong. Avocado Toast brings creamy goodness into every bite with endless topping possibilities. Whether for breakfast or a quick snack, this recipe is all about simplicity. A timeless winner for when flavor needs to meet convenience.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

Eggplant Casserole

A slice of cheesy eggplant lasagna with tomato sauce is being lifted from a pan, showing stretchy melted cheese. A bowl is blurred in the background.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baked together in layers, this one hits the spot when you’re craving something hearty. Eggplant Casserole is all about creating a dish packed with rich texture and taste. It’s baked finish transforms simple ingredients into a meal worth sharing. A dependable way to knock it out of the park in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

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.

A treat like no other, it’s an indulgence in every bite with a bit of international flair. Dubai Chocolate combines deep, rich flavors for a truly unique dessert experience. It’s perfect for your sweet cravings without overly complicated steps. A recipe that’s great when you want your dessert to stand out.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Close-up of a beef pot roast with mushrooms, carrots, and garnished with rosemary sprigs on a white plate.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tender and loaded with flavor, this is the kind of dish that takes care of itself. Slow Cooker Pot Roast is your ticket to an effortless yet rewarding meal. Slow-cooked perfection brings forth rich and tasty results without much hands-on time. A classic dinner recipe when you’re aiming to impress.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

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.

Creamy and rich, this dish is packed with flavors that blend beautifully. Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is all about slow-cooked magic that you can set and forget. Perfect for those moments when you need a dependable meal to win on every level. It’s like putting together a recipe that loves you back.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Shrimp Tacos

Close-up of a shrimp taco with avocado, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of sauce in a toasted tortilla.
Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Flavorful bites wrapped in soft shells make for a fun and dynamic meal. Shrimp Tacos come with seasoned shrimp that work perfectly with simple touches. This recipe hits the spot whether for lunch or dinner when quick and big flavor is on the menu. Handy to whip up when you need a meal idea that’s both easy and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy insides paired with crisp and fluffy outsides make this dish unforgettable. Twice Baked Potatoes deliver comfort food vibes without complicating cooking time. It’s a smart way to jazz up regular potatoes into something exciting. Great for adding variety when your plate needs a little extra magic.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

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.

Whipped up into a creamy dish with deep flavors, it’s perfect for when you need a quick win. French Onion Dip uses sweet onions for a rich base, blending into something you’ll want to share. It pairs well with crunchy snacks or can stand out on its own. Whether for a small gathering or quiet moments, this recipe delivers.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

Pizza Casserole

A close-up of a baked pasta dish with melted cheese, pepperoni slices, and herbs, showing a serving being lifted, revealing gooey cheese strands.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A flavorful answer when you crave comfort and a one pan wonder. Pizza Casserole layers bold flavors, combining cheesy bites and hearty textures. It’s easy to throw together and can be a go-to for weeknight dinners. Each piece brings guaranteed satisfaction for everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

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.

Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly comforting, this dish hits all the right notes. Mac and Cheese combines goodness with simple perfection in every bite. It’s one recipe that makes every occasion feel special. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s just the thing to bring smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Pork Belly

Sliced roast pork with crispy, golden-brown skin on a wooden surface.
Pork Belly. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tender and packed with flavor, this dish is a true showstopper. Pork Belly is cooked perfectly to highlight its natural richness and melt in your mouth texture. It’s all about creating an unforgettable experience for family meals or small celebrations. Once you try it, it’ll be a keeper in your recipe collection.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly

Baked Chicken Thighs

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

Crispy on the outside yet wonderfully tender, this dish is incredibly versatile. Baked Chicken Thighs cook up with ease, bringing that homemade feel to your table. Great for everyday meals, it’s one you’ll keep coming back to. Serve it up whenever you need something filling and fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken Thighs

Wild Rice Casserole

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

Earthy and hearty, this recipe brings comforting flavors together. Wild Rice Casserole balances textures and deep tastes into one tasty dish. Perfect for making ahead, it’s easy to whip up and share when life gets busy. Just a warm dish that feels homemade every time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Close-up of loaded Buffalo chicken nachos piled high with shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheese, green onions, hot sauce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Packed with bold heat and cheesy goodness, this is the snack everyone wants. Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos bring together crispy chips and rich, hearty toppings for a crowd-pleaser. Great for game nights or casual get-togethers, it’s a mess you’ll love making. Perfect for people who want layers of flavor without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Tomahawk Steak

Close-up of cooked beef slices on a wooden board, with a fork holding one piece. The meat appears juicy with a seasoned crust.
Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Big, bold, and cooked to perfection, this recipe is confidence on a plate. Tomahawk Steak shines with its tender meat and flavorful sear, making it ideal for a special meal. It’s straightforward while still feeling like an achievement in the kitchen. Serve it up when you’re aiming to impress.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A baking dish filled with golden-brown baked tuna noodle casserole, topped with breadcrumbs and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy and filling, this dish keeps things simple yet so delicious. Tuna Noodle Casserole combines comforting flavors with nostalgic warmth in every bite. Easy to prepare, it’s an old-school classic that earns its place on the table. Perfect for when you want simple, hearty meals without a fuss.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

White Chicken Chili

A bowl of creamy White Chicken Chili with chunks of chicken, sliced avocado, green jalapeño peppers, white beans, and fresh cilantro.
White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

This dish offers smooth comfort in every serving. White Chicken Chili blends ingredients into a creamy, tasty bowl that’s perfect for any evening. Cooked together easily, it’s a dependable go-to you’ll love. Just what you want for cozy nights in or feeding a small crowd.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

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 colorful combination of textures made for sharing, it brings fun to the table. 7 Layer Dip stacks bold flavors into one dish that’s ideal for parties or casual snacking. Every bite brings something different, balancing creamy, crunchy, and spicy notes. Whether made in a rush or planned ahead, it’s always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

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.

Rich, layered, and baked to perfection, it’s a twist on traditional pasta that always hits the spot. Spaghetti Casserole combines classic flavors into one dish that’s easy to share. Make it for family dinners or prep it ahead for busy nights. Either way, it’s a win for those moments when you need real comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Marry Me Butter Beans

A cast iron skillet with creamy pasta mixed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with cheese, with a wooden spoon resting inside.
Marry Me Butter Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm and flavorful, this recipe turns simple beans into a star dish. Marry Me Butter Beans create tender bites rich with taste and effortless preparation. Easy to make, it’s perfect for side dishes or standing out on its own. Try it once, and it’s bound to be a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Butter Beans

Loaded Tater Tots

Loaded Tater Tots close-up topped with crumbled bacon, drizzled with ranch dressing, and garnished with sliced green onions on a white plate.
Loaded Tater Tots. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crispy bites are fully packed with addictive toppings that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Loaded Tater Tots combine melted cheese and irresistible layers to transform simple tots into something special. Great for snacking or serving to friends, this one’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Perfect for keeping things fun and filling.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots

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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