Dinner time can be a challenge, especially when you’re cooking just for one. But fear not! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes to help you whip up a tasty meal in no time. From seafood to chicken, beef to veggies, and even some creative twists on classic favorites, these quick and easy dinner ideas will keep your taste buds happy all week long.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top 20 one-pot wonders that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. Whether you’re a busy professional or a student on-the-go, these recipes are designed to be fast, flavorful, and simple to make. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
Transform your pasta game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines succulent shrimp with zucchini noodles and a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add zucchini noodles and toss to combine with garlic butter sauce.
5. Serve shrimp on top of zucchini noodles, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken and potatoes, this one-pan wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large red potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan, combine chicken, potatoes, lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, and garlic.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad! Fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil come together to create a creamy, savory, and tangy filling for ripe avocados.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
3. Spoon the tomato-mozzarella mixture into the avocado halves.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Mushroom and Spinach Quesadilla
A flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic quesadilla, this recipe combines sautéed mushrooms and spinach with melted cheese inside a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. In the skillet, sauté the mushrooms and garlic until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add the spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted.
4. Place one half of the tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Spoon the mushroom and spinach mixture on top of the cheese.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook the other side for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Microwave Egg Fried Rice
This recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy the classic Chinese dish, egg fried rice, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions, cooked chicken, or shrimp for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Add the vegetable oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.
3. Cook the egg mixture on high for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in cooked rice, breaking up any clumps.
5. Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the rice is heated through and slightly browned.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Single-Serve Margherita Pizza
This recipe yields a perfectly portioned margherita pizza, perfect for a solo dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 small flour tortilla (6-7 inches in diameter)
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the flour tortilla on a baking sheet.
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Top with chopped fresh basil leaves.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
5-Minute Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
Savor the flavors of summer with this quick and easy soup, paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the chopped basil.
6. Meanwhile, butter one side of each bread slice.
7. Place one slice, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
8. Top with another slice, butter-side up.
9. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
10. Serve soup hot, topped with grilled cheese sandwich.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Baked Salmon with Asparagus
A flavorful and healthy meal option that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the tender crunch of asparagus, all wrapped up in a simple baking process.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each fillet.
4. Toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet around the salmon.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with lemon zest.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Bowl Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
A quick and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of beef, broccoli, and savory sauce in one convenient bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the broccoli and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the sauce over the broccoli and stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pan and stir to combine with the broccoli and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot in one bowl, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Chickpea and Spinach Curry
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious curry that can be prepared in just 20 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch. It’s packed with protein-rich chickpeas, nutrient-dense spinach, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, and spinach. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
6. Serve hot over rice, naan, or with some crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Avocado and Egg Toast
A delicious breakfast or snack that’s rich in nutrients and flavor. This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the savory taste of eggs on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Fry the eggs in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook until whites are set and yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
3. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toasted bread.
4. Place the fried eggs on top of the avocado.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Tuna Pasta Salad
A refreshing and protein-packed salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Microwave Mac and Cheese
Quick Microwave Mac and Cheese Recipe
Summary: This recipe is a simple and satisfying way to make macaroni and cheese in just a few minutes using your microwave.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, butter, and flour.
2. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Microwave on high for an additional 45-60 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is coated in a creamy sauce.
5. Remove from microwave and stir well before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 minute 15 seconds
Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter
Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter: A Simple yet Decadent Dinner Option
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds steak (preferably ribeye or strip loin), at room temperature
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the pan: Heat a skillet (preferably cast-iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat until it reaches 450°F (230°C).
2. Season the steak: Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the steak: Add butter to the preheated pan, letting it melt slightly. Place the steak in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms. Repeat on the other side if necessary.
4. Finish with garlic butter: Reduce heat to medium-low. Spread minced garlic evenly over the steak. Add Worcestershire sauce and remaining butter; let it melt and coat the steak.
5. Rest and serve: Remove from heat. Let the steak rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on desired level of doneness.
Easy Veggie Omelette
Easy Veggie Omelette Recipe
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious omelette packed with colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach)
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat and add the butter or non-stick spray.
3. Once the butter has melted, pour in the eggs.
4. Let the eggs cook for about 30 seconds until the edges start to set.
5. Add the mixed veggies on half of the omelette.
6. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half over the veggies.
7. Cook for another 30-60 seconds or until the cheese is melted (if using).
8. Slide the omelette onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
In this classic Italian recipe, spaghetti is cooked with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes to create a savory and spicy sauce. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the garlicky goodness.
4. If using red pepper flakes, add them to the pasta and toss to combine. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with some chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional butter sauce, this recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the pungency of garlic and the zing of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over each scallop.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until scallops are cooked through and slightly caramelized.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Single-Serving Chicken Fajita Bowl
Satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make single-serving chicken fajita bowl, packed with juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 small flour tortilla
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pan, add the sliced bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add the olive oil, lime juice, and cumin to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the pan with the bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Warm a small flour tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the fajita bowl by placing the chicken and bell pepper mixture onto the warmed tortilla. Add desired toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Quick Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Get ready for a flavorful and effortless dinner with these Quick Teriyaki Chicken Skewers! Marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, juicy chicken pieces are perfectly grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, garlic, honey, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove skewers from water and thread 3-4 chicken pieces onto each skewer.
5. Grill skewers for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwave Mug Lasagna
Take a break from traditional lasagna with this single-serving, microwave-ready version that’s ready in just a few minutes. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup cooked lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon tomato sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 slices of cooked bacon or ham
Instructions:
1. Crack the egg into a microwave-safe mug.
2. Add the lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and basil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If using, add 1-2 slices of cooked bacon or ham on top.
5. Microwave on high for 30-40 seconds, or until the egg is cooked and the cheese is melted.
6. Remove from microwave and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 seconds
Summary
Looking for quick and easy dinner recipes that can be made in no time? Look no further! This article presents 20 delicious and satisfying recipes perfect for a solo meal or a small gathering. From seafood to chicken, beef to veggies, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to please. Recipes include Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles, One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes, Caprese Stuffed Avocado, and many more. Whether you’re short on time or want to impress your guests, these recipes are a must-try!
Leave a Reply