37 Quick and Easy Recipes That Make Cooking Feel Effortless

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If you’re tired of spending hours in the kitchen or scrambling to find something easy to make, these quick and easy recipes are perfect for you. They’ll help you get a delicious meal on the table without the stress or fuss, so you can focus on the things that really matter. Whether you’re short on time or just looking for something simple, these recipes will make cooking feel effortless and enjoyable.

Air Fryer Steak Tips

A bowl of seasoned meat cubes garnished with chopped herbs, with a fork resting on the side. — Air Fryer Steak Tips. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

These steak tips cook up quickly in the air fryer, making them a simple option for busy nights. They come out tender with a rich, flavorful sear, perfect for a quick dinner without much effort. Pair them with a side of vegetables or potatoes for a meal that feels complete with minimal prep. When you need a hearty meal in a hurry, this one delivers without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Tips

Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce

A plated piece of seasoned salmon with a portion removed on a fork, served alongside steamed broccolini. — Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This salmon dish comes together fast, making it ideal for nights when time is short but you still want something homemade. The creamy dill sauce adds a smooth, herby finish that balances the richness of the fish. It’s a great option for a weeknight meal that looks and tastes like you put in more effort than you actually did. With a short cook time and simple ingredients, it’s as easy as it gets.
Get the Recipe: Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce

Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese topped with breadcrumbs and bacon in a white dish, with a serving on a plate beside it. — Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This mac and cheese brings restaurant-style comfort food to your table with hardly any effort. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, making it a quick way to upgrade dinner. Serve it as a main dish or a side to round out any meal without spending extra time in the kitchen. When you need something easy but still crave something extra, this recipe does the job.
Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Salmon Pasta Alfredo

This dish combines flaky salmon with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a meal that’s both quick and filling. It comes together in just minutes, making it a great option for nights when you want something satisfying without extra work. With a few simple ingredients, you get a homemade meal that feels effortless. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread to make it even better.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

A bowl of meat and green peppers with a spoon. — Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These steak bites are cooked in a garlic butter sauce that coats each piece with rich flavor. They’re ready in minutes, making them a perfect choice when you need a meal that feels substantial without a long cooking process. Pair them with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. When time is tight, this is an easy go-to that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Chicken Chop Suey

This quick stir-fry brings together tender chicken and crisp vegetables in a light sauce. It’s a simple way to put a balanced meal on the table without spending a lot of time cooking. Serve it over rice or noodles for a dish that feels complete but takes minimal effort. When you need something quick and homemade, this recipe makes it easy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken tenders come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside without the hassle of deep frying. The air fryer does all the work, making them a great option for a no-fuss meal. They’re perfect for dipping and pair well with simple sides like fries or a salad. When you want something fast that everyone will enjoy, this recipe is a reliable choice.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Personal Pizza

Close-up of a pepperoni pizza slice being lifted, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. — Personal Pizza. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This easy personal pizza is a quick way to make dinner feel fun without much effort. Customize it with your favorite toppings and have a fresh, hot pizza ready in minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something quick but don’t want to settle for takeout. With simple ingredients and a fast cook time, this one is a no-brainer.
Get the Recipe: Personal Pizza

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

A grilled chicken thight with barbecue sauce and a side of green beans on a white plate, garnished with chopped parsley. — Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These juicy chicken thighs are coated in barbecue sauce and grilled to perfection in no time. They’re a great way to get a flavorful dinner on the table with minimal effort. Serve them with a simple side like coleslaw or roasted veggies for an easy meal. When you need something fast that still feels like a weekend favorite, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

Crab Pasta

A close-up of spaghetti twirled on a fork with bits of crab meat and herbs, with more pasta and a dish in the blurred background. — Crab Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy crab pasta is packed with flavor and comes together quickly for an effortless meal. It’s rich yet light, making it a great option for busy nights when you want something homemade without spending extra time in the kitchen. Serve it with a side of garlic bread to complete the dish. With just a few ingredients, this recipe is a simple way to change up your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Crab Pasta

Cream Cheese Chicken

A plate with chicken and green beans on it. — Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy, cheesy chicken dish is perfect for nights when you need something comforting without spending all evening cooking. The sauce keeps the chicken tender and adds a smooth, rich texture. It pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables, making it an easy choice for a full meal. With minimal prep and a short cook time, it’s the kind of recipe that makes dinner effortless.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These shrimp skewers are quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a great choice for an easy meal. The grill gives them a slight char while keeping them tender and juicy. Serve them with rice, salad, or a simple dipping sauce for a complete dish. When you need something fast but fresh, these skewers get the job done.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Popcorn Chicken

These bite-sized pieces of chicken cook up fast and crispy, making them a great go-to when you need something quick. They’re easy to pair with dipping sauces, salads, or sides like mashed potatoes. Whether for a meal or a snack, they take almost no effort to prepare. When you’re short on time but still want something homemade, this recipe is a winner.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

Ground Pork Tacos

Two pork tacos on a white plate with lime wedges. — Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These tacos are a simple way to put together a flavorful meal without much work. The seasoned ground pork cooks quickly, making them perfect for busy nights. Serve with tortillas, toppings, and a side of salsa for an effortless dinner. When you want something fast but still homemade, these tacos are a great option.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

This cold pasta salad combines shrimp, pasta, and a creamy dressing for a dish that comes together with almost no effort. It’s a great make-ahead option for lunches or light dinners. Serve it on its own or as a side for an easy meal that requires minimal time in the kitchen. When you need something quick and refreshing, this recipe is a solid pick.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate. — Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This tuna melt gets crispy, golden brown in the air fryer without the need for extra oil. The melted cheese and warm tuna filling make it a comforting meal that comes together in minutes. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or an easy dinner when you don’t want to spend time at the stove. With minimal prep and a fast cook time, it’s a simple way to enjoy a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

This baked pasta dish combines buffalo chicken with a creamy sauce for a meal that feels hearty without requiring much effort. It’s a great way to switch up dinner with a little heat and lots of flavor. The oven does most of the work, making it an easy choice for busy nights. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a meal that comes together fast.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Chicken Divan

A casserole dish with cheese and broccoli on a napkin. — Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole is a simple way to get dinner on the table with little effort. It bakes up golden and bubbly, making it a comforting meal for any night of the week. Serve it over rice or pasta to make it even more filling. When you need a one-pan dish that’s easy to throw together, this recipe is a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

Honey Walnut Shrimp

Plate of crispy chicken pieces with walnuts and green onions, served next to white rice on a patterned cloth with a fork. — Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This crispy shrimp dish is coated in a sweet, creamy sauce and comes together fast. It’s a simple way to bring bold flavors to the table without extra effort. Serve it with rice for a full meal that feels like takeout but is easier than you’d expect. When you want something quick with a little bit of sweetness, this is a great option.
Get the Recipe: Honey Walnut Shrimp

Panko Chicken Breast

Panko chicken on a white plate. — Panko Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This crispy, golden chicken breast is coated in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. It bakes up fast, making it a great choice when you need something simple but filling. Serve it with vegetables, salad, or pasta for an easy meal. When dinner needs to be quick but still feel homemade, this recipe fits the bill.
Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

A bowl of pasta with shrimp and tomatoes. — Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This shrimp pasta dish is light, fresh, and comes together in no time. The combination of shrimp and tomatoes makes for a simple yet flavorful meal. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a salad for an easy dinner. When you need something fast but still satisfying, this pasta dish is a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Chicken Nuggets

Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background. — Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These homemade chicken nuggets are crispy, tender, and easy to make without much effort. They cook up fast and pair well with dipping sauces or simple sides. Whether for a quick dinner or a snack, they’re a great option when you need something that doesn’t require much work. When time is short, this recipe makes it easy to get a homemade meal on the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Serving of honey butter chicken garnished with parsley on plate. — Honey Butter Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This fried chicken is coated in a rich honey butter glaze, making it both crispy and slightly sweet. It’s quick to prepare and works well with classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw. The balance of flavors makes it an easy way to add something special to dinner without extra effort. When you want a quick meal that feels a little extra, this recipe is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

A piece of air fried chicken thigh on a fork, with a caramelized exterior and garnished with a small leaf, in focus against a blurred background of more chicken pieces. — Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These juicy chicken thighs cook up quickly in the air fryer, making them an easy option for weeknight meals. The crispy outside and tender inside make them a great addition to any meal. Serve with roasted veggies, rice, or a simple salad for a quick and well-rounded dish. When you need something fast that still feels homemade, this recipe does the trick.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

A bowl of shrimp pasta with lemon and parsley. — Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This shrimp pasta is coated in a simple garlic butter sauce that comes together fast. It’s a great choice when you need a flavorful meal without a long prep time. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded dish. When you want something quick that still feels special, this one is a solid pick.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Alfredo Steak Pasta

This creamy Alfredo pasta with tender steak pieces is a fast way to bring a restaurant-style meal to your table. It’s a filling dish that requires minimal prep, making it a great option for busy nights. Pair it with a simple side like roasted vegetables or a salad. When dinner needs to be quick but still feel like a treat, this recipe delivers.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

Mexican Steak Pizza

This pizza brings together bold Mexican flavors with tender steak and a crispy crust. It’s a fun way to change up pizza night without adding extra effort. The combination of toppings makes it filling and full of flavor. When you want something quick but a little different, this is an easy go-to.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Steak Pizza

Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Panko pork chop on plate with greens. — Breaded Panko Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy pork chops are coated in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and cook up fast. They pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad. With minimal prep and a short cook time, they make getting dinner on the table effortless. When you need something easy but still homemade, this recipe fits the bill.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Panko Pork Chops

Ground Pork Stir Fry

A plate with ground pork and vegetables on top of cauliflower rice. — Ground Pork Stir Fry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This stir-fry is packed with vegetables and ground pork, making it a simple yet balanced meal. The quick cooking time makes it perfect for nights when you don’t want to spend extra time in the kitchen. Serve it over rice or noodles for an easy way to round out the dish. When you need a fast and filling meal, this one works every time.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Stir Fry

Shrimp Scampi

A plate with shrimp and bread on it. — Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This shrimp scampi comes together in minutes with a light, buttery sauce and a squeeze of lemon. It’s an easy way to bring fresh flavors to your dinner without much effort. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread for a meal that feels complete. When you want something quick but still full of flavor, this recipe is a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Panko Crusted Cod

This crispy cod is coated in panko breadcrumbs for a golden crunch without deep frying. It bakes up fast, making it an easy choice when you need a light but satisfying meal. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. When you need something quick and effortless, this dish makes dinner simple.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks. — Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This stir-fried chicken dish is coated in a bold black pepper sauce that comes together quickly. It’s a great alternative to takeout when you want something flavorful but easy to make. Serve it over rice or noodles for a fast, complete meal. When you need a quick and flavorful dinner, this one is hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Wet Burrito

This hearty burrito is filled with a savory mix of meat, beans, and cheese, then smothered in a rich sauce. It bakes up quickly, making it an easy way to bring bold flavors to your table without a lot of effort. Serve it with rice or chips for a filling meal. When you need something satisfying without spending too much time cooking, this recipe is a great option.
Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate. — Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These cheesy beef quesadillas cook up in minutes, making them perfect for busy nights. They’re easy to customize with different toppings and pair well with salsa or guacamole. Serve them on their own or with a side salad for a simple meal. When you need something quick and filling, this recipe is an easy win.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers. — Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These juicy chicken kabobs cook up fast in the air fryer, making them a great choice for easy meals. The simple seasoning brings out the flavor without requiring extra work. Pair them with rice, pita, or a light salad for a well-balanced dish. When you want a fast meal that still feels fresh, this one is a great option.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

A plate of salmon on a white plate with lemon slices on it. — Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This lemon butter sauce adds a smooth, rich flavor to salmon with almost no effort. It’s a quick way to make any seafood dish feel a little more special. Drizzle it over grilled, baked, or pan-seared salmon for an easy way to add extra flavor. When you need a fast and simple way to complete your meal, this sauce does the trick.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

Baked Lemon Butter Fish

This baked fish is coated in a light lemon butter sauce, making it a fresh and simple meal. It bakes up quickly, so you don’t have to spend much time in the kitchen. Serve it with rice or steamed vegetables for an easy dinner. When you need something quick but still full of flavor, this recipe is a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish