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Too Busy to Cook? These 21 Easy Recipes Have Got Your Back

When time’s running out and hunger’s creeping in, these 21 easy recipes have your back. From meals you can whip up in 30 minutes or less to hands-off dishes that cook themselves, you’ll wonder why you ever stressed over dinner. With everything from quick stir-fries to simple pasta, you can feed yourself without turning your kitchen into a disaster zone. No more excuses—just good food, fast.

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Oven Baked Ribs

Pieces of oven bake ribs on a black slate plate.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Love ribs but hate the hassle? Oven Baked Ribs are the solution. With this recipe, you get tender, flavorful ribs without a grill or hours of prep time. Pop them in the oven and let it do the work for you—your taste buds will thank you later. A perfect option for a satisfying meal without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

John Wayne Casserole

A slice of John Wayne casserole on a black plate beside a baking dish of the same casserole.
John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For a dinner that satisfies and is easy to make, look no further than John Wayne Casserole. It’s the perfect casserole for busy nights when you need a hearty meal fast. Packed with flavor and made with minimal effort, this dish makes feeding the family a breeze. The best part? It’s ready in no time at all.
Get the Recipe: John Wayne Casserole

Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl

A bowl of Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl with a bottle of dressing and a fork in the background.
Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Need a wholesome meal without the fuss? Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl gives you just that. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’ll leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. With this dish, you get a complete meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for those evenings when you want something healthy and filling.
Get the Recipe: Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Two pieces of Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos served on a black slate plate.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving Taco Bell but don’t have the time? Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos lets you recreate that flavor at home in no time. It’s simple, quick, and satisfying—everything you want in a taco without the wait. No need to head to the drive-thru when you can make these yourself with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with creamy, baked casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs, set on a wooden surface. A fork rests in one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Busy nights don’t have to mean sacrificing comfort food. Vintage Chicken Divan is an easy-to-make casserole that hits all the right notes without needing a ton of prep. It’s a one-pan meal that saves you time, while still feeling hearty. Great for busy evenings, it’s simple to pull together, so you can focus on other things while it bakes.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Double halves of Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak on a slate plate.
Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving something quick but satisfying? Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak has you covered. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that cooks fast, offering a delicious meal in no time. Whether for dinner or a quick lunch, it’s easy to prepare, even on tight schedules. Perfect when you want something filling, without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteak

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Top-down shot of Tuna Noodle Casserole on a dish with a small portion on a black plate.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

No time to cook but need a meal that sticks with you? Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is the answer. This simple dish packs a punch of flavor without requiring much attention. A quick, comforting choice that’s a lifesaver when you’re juggling tasks. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore on a serving platter.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

You don’t need hours to create a flavorful, satisfying dinner. Chicken Cacciatore brings together juicy chicken and rich sauce in a fast and simple way. With minimal effort, you’ll have a meal that’s both filling and tasty. It’s the perfect recipe for when you want something comforting, but don’t have the time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

Shipwreck Casserole

Shipwreck Casserole in a black dish with a spoon.
Shipwreck Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

On those days when you just want to throw something in the oven, Shipwreck Casserole is your go-to. It’s an easy-to-make, all-in-one meal that brings comfort without all the work. This dish gives you a home-cooked feel in a fraction of the time. No need to slave over the stove—let the oven do the heavy lifting for you.
Get the Recipe: Shipwreck Casserole

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with several meatballs covered in tomato sauce, garnished with chopped basil.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Want an easy dinner that practically cooks itself? Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are the way to go. Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting, and enjoy a meal that’s ready when you are. Perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a hot, delicious meal. Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich on a white plate with chips.
Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re craving a quick, hearty meal, Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is the answer. This easy-to-make sandwich is packed with flavor and will have you feeling full fast. Skip the drive-thru and create a satisfying meal that takes minimal effort. Perfect for when you’re on the go but still want something delicious.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Want a flavorful meal without the long cooking time? Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken brings bold, rich flavors to your table in a fraction of the time. Set it and forget it with this simple recipe that gives you the taste you crave. Great for busy nights, this dish lets the slow cooker do all the work.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving comfort food, but short on time? Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are a simple, fast solution. With minimal prep, these tots are packed with flavor, and they’re ready to serve in no time. They make the perfect side dish or snack when you want something comforting but quick.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a fresh, no-cook option, Wild Rice Salad is the way to go. It’s a fast and easy meal that can be put together in minutes but still feels satisfying. Perfect for busy days when you need something healthy and filling. The best part? It’s an effortlessly tasty meal you can enjoy without the long prep.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Four pieces of Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner? Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken is a breeze to make. Toss it on the grill and let the flavors meld together in minutes. It’s the perfect dish when you need something light yet satisfying without all the fuss. Ideal for busy nights when you crave something fresh and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Horiatiki Salad

A black bowl contains a Horiatiki salad with blocks of feta cheese, garnished with herbs.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For a refreshing, no-cook meal, Horiatiki Salad is the way to go. Quick to assemble, this salad brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients that are perfect for busy days. It’s healthy, light, and won’t keep you in the kitchen for long. The best part? It’s simple to prepare and easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Skip the line and make your own Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl in a flash. You get all the flavor you love, minus the wait and the extra calories. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Whip it up in no time and enjoy a quick, tasty bowl that hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

Pumpkin Spice Salmon Bowl

Salmon bowl on a black plate.
Pumpkin Spice Salmon Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a meal that feels a little extra but takes no time, Pumpkin Spice Salmon Bowl is the choice. Quick to make, this bowl offers up the perfect combination of savory and seasonal flavors. Ideal for when you’re craving something fresh and flavorful but don’t want to spend the whole evening cooking. Get your meal in minutes with this simple yet delicious recipe.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Salmon Bowl

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving a Taco Bell burrito but need it now? Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito is the answer. It’s quick to make and packed with all the flavors you love, but without the extra wait. This simple recipe gives you a filling meal that’s perfect for when time is tight. Skip the fast food line and enjoy a delicious homemade burrito.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork

Shredded Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pulled Pork on a white plate.
Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Looking for a flavor-packed meal but don’t have hours to spend? Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork brings rich, smoky flavors in less time than you’d think. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights when you still want something hearty. Let the grill do the work while you relax or focus on other tasks.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When you want steak but don’t have a lot of time, Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter comes through. This easy recipe gives you juicy steaks in no time, with the added richness of butter. No need to spend hours in the kitchen—you get a satisfying, hearty meal in just a few steps. It’s the perfect go-to for busy evenings when you need a quick, filling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

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