Hosting a holiday feast comes with enough drama, so keeping the food low-maintenance is just smart. These 37 recipes here let you spend less time sweating over the stove and more time dodging family debates. Each shortcut is cleverly disguised, impressing everyone at the table. You’ll look like you spent hours, even if you only spent minutes.

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish. — Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Flaky layers meet tender fruit in Puff Pastry Apple Tart, creating a convenient dessert that feels surprisingly impressive. Quick assembly means you can put together a plate that looks polished without much prep. Enjoy how the fruit slices soften and meld perfectly into the pastry as it bakes. This approachable tart can be served at gatherings or boxed up for weekday lunches with little fuss.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

With Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets, you can add a fun starter to any table with minimal effort. The blend of mushrooms and bacon gives each bite an appealing flavor, balanced by a creamy filling and crisp shell. Quick baking times and simple assembly help you present something that tastes much more complicated than it is. These tartlets work well as appetizers or as part of a brunch spread.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

A loaf of glazed pumpkin bread with two slices cut sits on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by bowls containing glaze and orange puree. — Best Ever Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Moist crumb and aromatic spices are what make Best Ever Pumpkin Bread such a reliable choice for home bakers. One bowl and straightforward instructions allow you to prepare this treat without extra hassle. Serve slices as a breakfast, snack, or quick dessert when company arrives unexpectedly. The recipe freezes well, so making a double batch gives you something ready to go for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

Smoked New York Strip Roast

Deep flavor emerges in Smoked New York Strip Roast, achieved by simple seasoning and gentle smoking. Minimal preparation is needed, making this roast a practical pick for family meals or special occasions. The method results in tender, juicy servings that require little attention during cooking. Presentation looks upgraded by the natural marbling and color, yet everything comes together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Smoked New York Strip Roast

Pumpkin Dump Cake

A slice of layered pumpkin dessert topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a white plate. — Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Layering ingredients in a baking pan is all it takes for Pumpkin Dump Cake, and cleanup is simple, too. No separate mixing bowls are needed, so preparation goes quickly for busy cooks. You’ll enjoy a batch that’s shareable, packing pumpkin flavor in every scoop. Serve it warm from the oven, topped with ice cream or whipped cream for added ease.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Dump Cake

Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl

A variety of quick-cooking ingredients star in Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl, offering a complete meal that assembles fast. The salmon cooks quickly and pairs well with fresh vegetables and grains for balanced nutrition. You can adjust components easily to match what’s available or your tastes. This bowl-style recipe delivers a filling dinner without creating extra dishes.
Get the Recipe: Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl

Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

A black plate holds Pumpkin Linzer cookies dusted with powdered sugar. — Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

The assembly for Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies involves rolling, cutting, and filling, with results that look festive without complex decorating. Pumpkin adds just enough sweetness and moisture to complement the sandwich-style cookies. Making these at home saves time compared to traditional Linzer recipes, and no special equipment is needed. These cookies store well, making them perfect for homemade gifts or sharing at events.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked chicken wings with pickles on a black plate. — Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simple seasoning and a short smoke time bring out bold flavor in Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Minimal prep means you spend less time in the kitchen, yet the wings still impress guests with their tangy aroma. Serve with a quick homemade dip or store-bought sauce for added convenience. These wings are perfect for gatherings when easy finger food is a priority.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Easy layering and a boxed mix cut down on preparation for Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake, letting you produce a crowd-pleaser quickly. The combination of pumpkin puree with brownie batter results in a moist, lovely texture and chocolate flavor. You can decorate with candy or chocolate chips for extra fun, following simple steps. The finished cake works for dessert tables or as a centerpiece for parties.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Quick mixing and shaping turn leftovers into Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties, a clever way to repurpose ingredients. The recipe needs only a skillet and basic seasonings, so there’s little cleanup afterward. Patties cook up crisp on the outside and remain tender inside, making them ideal for lunches or light dinners. This method helps reduce food waste while creating a dish everyone enjoys.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Layer-by-layer assembly simplifies making Pumpkin Crunch Cake, yielding a dessert with varied textures from soft pumpkin to crisp topping. You’ll only need pantry staples and a single pan for baking, minimizing preparation. The result is a sweet, shareable treat that’s easy to transport and serve. Keep leftovers covered for continued flavor and texture in the days to follow.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Cream of Onion Soup

Two bowls of cream onion soup on a wooden table. — Cream of Onion Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Basic slicing and simmering form the backbone of Cream of Onion Soup, which comes together with little fuss. The flavors mellow and blend as the soup cooks, resulting in a velvety bowl without complicated techniques. Salt, pepper, and a splash of cream round out the dish, so you don’t need any specialty ingredients. Pair with bread or a simple salad for a straightforward meal.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Onion Soup

Easy Pumpkin Waffles

Two stacked square waffles with syrup on a white plate, set on a white textured surface. — Easy Pumpkin Waffles. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Using a ready-made mix transforms breakfast with Easy Pumpkin Waffles, cutting down on measuring and mixing. Just add pumpkin puree and spice, then pour and cook for golden waffles in minutes. This hands-off approach makes it simple to serve a crowd or prepare for weekdays in advance. Top with syrup, fruit, or whipped cream for variety and extra convenience.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Waffles

White Bean Salad

Assembly is a breeze for White Bean Salad, using canned beans and fresh vegetables tossed in a quick vinaigrette. No cooking is required, and the dish chills nicely, making it suitable for meal prep or picnics. Ingredients blend together for a protein-rich, crunchy side that works well alongside mains. Simple substitutions, like different vegetables or herbs, keep the salad interesting each time.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Salad

Pumpkin Spice Scones

Mixing, shaping, and baking Pumpkin Spice Scones is simple with pantry ingredients and canned pumpkin. The dough comes together without much kneading, saving effort and keeping cleanup minimal. Once baked, scones can be glazed or left plain for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks. These store well at room temperature, so leftovers stay fresh for days.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Scones

Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

A square slice of corn pudding casserole with eggs, red bell pepper, and chives sits on a white plate with a serving spoon underneath. — Classic Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

One bowl and a handful of ingredients make Classic Corn Pudding Casserole straightforward for busy hosts. A light whisk and bake give a creamy yet structured texture, perfect as a side dish for large gatherings. You can serve it straight from the oven, and portions come out easily with a serving spoon. Pair this casserole with roasted meats or simple salads for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

Three white plates with pumpkin turnovers topped with cinnamon sugar, on a rustic wooden table with utensils and autumn-themed decorations. — Easy Pumpkin Turnovers. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Preparing Easy Pumpkin Turnovers involves folding premade dough around a pumpkin filling and baking until golden. The result is quick to assemble yet looks homemade, making it ideal for brunch or dessert trays. Minimal ingredients keep things simple, and leftovers taste great reheated. Small enough for individual servings, these turnovers are convenient for snacks or entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

A rectangular white plate with cooked red cabbage and bacon pieces, placed on a light surface next to a floral-patterned cloth. — Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Sautéing sliced cabbage with bacon and vinegar produces Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon in one pan. This dish is easy to adapt based on taste, with just a few ingredients and little chopping. The bacon brings a smoky character to the tangy cabbage, making for a hearty side. Serve warm with roasted meats or as part of a vegetable platter.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Six pumpkin whoopie pies with cream filling are arranged on a gray plate, viewed from above. Two cinnamon sticks are visible at the edge of the plate. — Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Basic mixing and scooping help you create Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, with pumpkin giving richness and moisture. Soft cookie layers sandwich a quick frosting for a handheld treat great for sharing. You’ll only need common baking tools and simple directions, allowing you to make dessert quickly. Keep leftovers chilled for easy snacks throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate. — Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Seasoning, layering, and walking away are all it takes for Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans, which save you time and energy. These beans cook slowly for tenderness, all in a single appliance without stirring or careful watching. The result is a flavorful side dish suitable for potlucks or busy weeknights. Serve right from the slow cooker for fewer dishes and stress-free presentation.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Dutch Apple Danishes

Using ready-made dough and simple fruit filling, Dutch Apple Danishes can be baked and served for breakfast or dessert. They come together quickly in the oven, with minimal hands-on time or special expertise. The layered texture and touch of icing give them an appealing finish. Individually sized, these danishes are perfect for quick snacks or portion-controlled treats.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Danishes

Turkey à la King

Quick cooking in a single pan turns leftover meat into Turkey à la King, a creamy main dish with vegetables and light seasoning. Serve over rice, noodles, or toast for a filling meal that stretches leftovers further. Instructions are uncomplicated and require no specialty tools or steps. With only modest effort, you’ll have a comforting meal ready for family or guests.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

An apple cinnamon roll on a plate with a spoon. — Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Filling pre-made dough with spiced apples produces Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls, a shortcut breakfast or snack option that tastes homemade. These rolls bake up soft, with a sweet swirl and apple pieces in every bite. The recipe lets you skip the yeast and waiting time, but looks impressive on a plate. Add a simple glaze if desired, keeping the process quick and mess-free.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Roasting florets and tossing with seasoning gives Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill a fresh twist, finished in under half an hour. The method needs only chopping and baking, using ingredients most kitchens have on hand. Served warm or at room temperature, cauliflower maintains its texture and tangy taste. This side works well with fish, chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

Two small white bowls of applesauce topped with cinnamon are placed on a wooden board next to cinnamon sticks, an apple, and a jar of applesauce. — Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Using an electric pressure cooker speeds up preparation for Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe, freeing up your stovetop. Apples cook down into a smooth sauce with little stirring and reduced mess. Add sugar and spice to taste, then blend for a quick homemade treat. This recipe doubles easily and stores well for a fast snack or condiment.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced turkey breast on a white plate with sprigs of thyme. — Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Placing seasoned meat in a countertop appliance is all that’s required for Air Fryer Turkey Breast, transforming everyday ingredients into a juicy main dish. Fast cooking and a crisp finish set this recipe apart from traditional oven roasting. Minimal oil is used, but the turkey stays tender throughout. Serve slices with favorite sides for a full meal, and enjoy easy cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Combining simple batter with rich filling, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins make a portable breakfast or snack. Everything goes together in a bowl and muffin tin, with little mixing required. The cream cheese center offers an extra burst of flavor in every bite. These muffins freeze and reheat well, so making a large batch is practical for busy mornings.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

A baked casserole topped with chopped green onions and bacon pieces, with one square being served from the dish using a spatula. — Twice-Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Baking, mashing, and layering bring Twice-Baked Potato Casserole to life with fewer steps than traditional stuffed potatoes. Using a baking dish lets you serve multiple portions with less effort and no individual potato shells. The results are creamy with a golden top, suitable for weeknight dinners or group gatherings. Add cheese and bacon as desired, customizing the flavor for your crowd.
Get the Recipe: Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

A baking tray filled with a layer of chopped apples coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture. — Caramel Apple Sheet Cake. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Pouring batter into a pan for Caramel Apple Sheet Cake simplifies dessert preparation, with caramel and apples blending into a moist base. The sheet format means quick slicing and serving for any occasion. A drizzle of caramel on top saves decorating time and gives a polished look. This recipe is ideal for potlucks, parties, or weekday treats when you need dessert in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

A bowl of French onion soup with bread on top. — Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Carefully caramelized onions form the heart of Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup, brought together in a straightforward stovetop process. Melted cheese and toasted bread finish the dish for traditional presentation and flavor. Shortcuts such as premade broth can be used without sacrificing taste. This soup works for cozy dinners or as an appetizer for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting on wooden serving board. — Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Quick dough and pumpkin puree give Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls a shortcut to a familiar breakfast classic. Baking in a pan lets you make a batch for sharing with minimal effort or time. The recipe delivers a soft, sweet swirl that looks impressive despite being easy to prepare. Leftovers reheat well, so you can enjoy rolls over several days.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

A white plate with loaded sweet potato casserole topped with sour cream, bacon, cheese, and green onions, set on a brown charger plate with a fork and cooking utensils in the background. — Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Layering cooked potatoes and simple toppings turns Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole into a dish that combines spicy and sweet elements. Assembly is quick, and ingredients can be customized for taste or dietary preference. The texture remains soft, with a touch of crunch from nuts or marshmallows if desired. This casserole is easily doubled and travels well for holiday meals or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

Apple Fritter Bread

Stirring together a few staple ingredients is all it takes for Apple Fritter Bread, which bakes up moist with chunks of tender apple. Swirls of cinnamon and sugar create distinct layers, making each slice flavorful and interesting. No special equipment or skills are needed, keeping the process approachable for all bakers. Serve as breakfast, snack, or dessert, enjoying leftovers over several days.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

Mixing cooked rice, lightly steamed broccoli, and a creamy binder allows Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli to come together quickly. This casserole bakes up firm, cuts easily, and provides balanced nutrition with little effort. Ingredients can be prepped ahead or assembled at the last minute for convenience. Pair with roasted meats or enjoy alone as a filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

Apple Dump Cake

Layer canned fruit, packaged mix, and butter in a dish for Apple Dump Cake, resulting in a dessert with minimal measuring or fuss. The baking process melds everything together into a soft base and crisp top. You can serve it straight from the pan, adding ice cream or whipped cream if desired. This recipe suits casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or last-minute guests.
Get the Recipe: Apple Dump Cake

Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Boil, mash, and mix potatoes, then stir in cream cheese for Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese, a comforting side made fast. The extra richness from cream cheese eliminates the need for added butter or milk. This version stays creamy even when reheated, so it’s practical for meal prep or leftovers. Serve with nearly any main course, from roasts to grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Apple Crisp with Ice Cream

Baked apple-crumble dessert with ice cream and caramel drizzle, homemade cozy fall treat. — Apple Crisp with Ice Cream. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Quick assembly and baking produce Apple Crisp with Ice Cream, requiring only fruit, a few dry ingredients, and a topping. The crisp comes together in one pan and pairs perfectly with a scoop of ice cream for a simple dessert. Serve warm or at room temperature, with leftovers storing well in the refrigerator. Customizable with oats or nuts, this recipe fits nearly any occasion with little hassle.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp with Ice Cream