13 Minimal Ingredient Meals That Don’t Take All Day to Prep
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Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. These minimal-ingredient meals come together fast, saving you time, effort, and a pile of dirty dishes. Whether you’re short on groceries, energy, or just patience, these easy recipes will get a delicious meal on the table without the stress.
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Hamburger
This Philly cheesesteak casserole brings big flavor with just a handful of ingredients. Ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and melty cheese come together in a simple, no-fuss dish that bakes to perfection in 30 minutes or less. With only five ingredients plus salt and pepper, it’s an easy dinner win.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Hamburger
Air Fryer Pork Chops
These air fryer pork chops are juicy, crispy, and packed with flavor, all in just 9 minutes of cook time. With a quick seasoning mix and no breading needed, you’ll have a protein-packed meal on the table with almost zero effort and minimal ingredients. If you need a simple and delicious dinner, this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Chops
Chicken Quesadillas
Chicken quesadillas are proof that minimal ingredients can still deliver maximum flavor. Juicy salsa chicken and melty cheese get tucked inside crispy tortillas for the easiest, most delicious meal you can throw together in minutes. Add a dollop of sour cream, and you’ve got a go-to meal that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Quesadillas
Green Bean Hamburger Casserole
This green bean hamburger casserole is a budget-friendly, no-fuss dinner that’s perfect for hectic nights. With just ground beef, green beans, cream cheese, and shredded cheese, you’ll have a warm, comforting dish in under an hour. Simple, hearty, and easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Hamburger Casserole
Salsa Chicken in Slow Cooker
If you need a no-prep, set-it-and-forget-it meal, salsa chicken is your answer. Toss chicken breast and salsa into the slow cooker, let it do the work, and a few hours later, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken ready for tacos, salads, or rice bowls. Minimal effort, big flavor, and endless ways to serve it.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Chicken in Slow Cooker
Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Bacon-wrapped filet mignon sounds fancy, but it’s actually super simple to make at home. Wrap tender beef in crispy bacon, sear it in butter, and let the oven finish the job. It’s the easiest way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen and a long list of ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Apricot Chicken
This apricot chicken is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, made with just a few simple ingredients. Chicken breasts are baked in a tangy apricot glaze, resulting in a juicy, flavorful dish that feels special yet requires minimal effort. Ready in minutes, it’s a stress-free meal that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Apricot Chicken
Egg Casserole with Ground Beef
This protein-packed egg and beef casserole is the easiest way to whip up a delicious breakfast or dinner. With just eggs, ground beef, cream, and cheese, you can have a hearty meal with almost no prep time. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole with Ground Beef
Parmesan Chicken Wings
These crispy Parmesan chicken wings take almost no effort but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Coated in a cheesy, herby crust, they bake up golden brown and delicious in just 30 minutes. Whether it’s dinner, game night, or just snack time, these wings are always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Chicken Wings
2-Ingredient Burger Buns
These 2-ingredient burger buns are a game-changer for easy, delicious meals. With just eggs and shredded cheese, you get warm, fluffy buns that pair perfectly with burgers, sandwiches, or breakfast toast. Simple, guilt-free, and ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: 2-Ingredient Burger Buns
Fried Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
This one-pan fried cabbage and sausage skillet is quick, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor despite its simple ingredients. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, delicious meal that’s as easy as chopping, sautéing, and serving. It’s a weeknight staple that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
Vegetable and Ground Beef Skillet
For a fast, no-mess meal, this vegetable and ground beef skillet is a lifesaver. With just a handful ingredients, it comes together in one pan and is packed with protein and veggies. Easy to make, easy to clean up, and guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable and Ground Beef Skillet
Lobster
Cooking lobster at home doesn’t have to be intimidating, and it’s easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to pick, prepare, and cook lobster perfectly every time. In no time, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Lobster
