Short on time doesn't mean short on flavor! With these quick food recipes you can get our highest-rated, most-requested 30-minute meals ready in a snap—perfect for a busy weeknight.
100 of the Easiest Meals We’ve Ever Made
1
/
99
Flavorful Chicken Fajitas
This flavorful recipe is definitely on my weeknight dinner rotation. The chicken fajita marinade in these popular wraps is mouthwatering. They go together in a snap and always get raves! —Julie Sterchi, Campbellsville, Kentucky
2
/
99
Apricot Chicken
This saucy, Chinese-inspired apricot chicken recipe tastes just like your favorite takeout order but comes together entirely in the microwave.
3
/
99
Bean Burritos
Craving a tasty vegetarian meal? Try this easy bean burritos recipe featuring refried beans, salsa, rice and melted cheddar cheese.
4
/
99
Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Get a one-pan dinner on the table with this ground turkey sweet potato skillet, featuring smoky turkey, tender sweet potatoes and vibrant kale in a savory tomato broth, topped with creamy avocado.
5
/
99
Easy Beef and Noodles
Love Stroganoff but prefer to keep things simple for dinner? This easy beef and noodles recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, uses just a handful of ingredients, and is the perfect size for two people.
6
/
99
Hawaiian Pork Chops
Not sure what to do with those lean pork loin chops? Make Hawaiian pork chops to dress them up with sweet pineapple, savory vegetables and a tangy sauce.
7
/
99
Baked Fish
This baked fish recipe is the opposite of fussy. Use fresh or frozen fillets for a quick and simple dish that pairs with almost anything for a perfect weeknight (or any night!) meal.
8
/
99
Pineapple Chicken Casserole
I’m always looking for one-dish dinners that save time and cleanup. I love to cook, but with teaching school, playing handbells at church, and juggling my husband’s and teenage twins’ schedules, I have little time in the kitchen. This recipe saves the day! —Susan Warren, North Manchester, Indiana
9
/
99
Easy Pad Thai
Who needs takeout when you have this easy pad thai recipe? We make this version with pork tenderloin, but you can easily adapt the recipe to make chicken, shrimp or vegetarian pad thai.
10
/
99
Big Kahuna Pizza
A prebaked pizza crust and refrigerated barbecued pork make this tasty supper idea super fast and super easy. Cut into bite-sized pieces, and it can double as a great last-minute appetizer, too! —Joni Hilton, Rocklin, California
11
/
99
Cabbage Stir-Fry
The ginger comes through nicely in this colorful pork and napa cabbage stir-fry. Serve it over steamed rice or cooked noodles for a cozy-savory meal.
12
/
99
Lemon Mushroom Chicken
There's a lot of flavor in this dish. The best part? It doesn't seem light at all! —Carrie Palmquist, Canova, South Dakota
13
/
99
Nacho Pie
In place of the ground beef and mozzarella cheese, consider topping this zesty pie with lean ground sausage and cheddar cheese. It tastes just as good.—LaVerna Mjones, Moorhead, Minnesota
14
/
99
Chicken Enchiladas for Four
These chicken enchiladas put a little zip into any menu. The rolled tortillas are filled with a hearty mixture of cheese, chicken and green chiles, and then topped with a creamy sauce and more cheese. I sometimes use leftover turkey instead of chicken. —Karen Bourne, Magrath, Alberta
15
/
99
Shrimp Asparagus Pasta
Shrimp and asparagus pasta sounds fancy and tastes incredible—but even home cooks who shy away from seafood can easily master it.
16
/
99
15-Minute Meat Loaf
I combined a few great-tasting meat loaf recipes to create this flavorful version, which my husband loves. And because it’s made in the microwave, the entree is ideal for busy nights. —Deb Thompson, Lincoln, Nebraska
17
/
99
Fried Lemon Fish
This fried lemon fish is savory, crispy, a little bit sweet and full of lemon flavor. If you're craving something fried for dinner, give this recipe a try.
18
/
99
Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
You won’t miss the marinara sauce once you taste this pasta dish flavored with chicken broth and Italian sausage. The sauce simmers away on its own, without much work on your part. My husband likes it so much that I make it twice a week. —Daphine Smith, Baytown, Texas
19
/
99
Shrimp Scampi
This shrimp scampi recipe looks elegant enough to serve to company, but it’s easy to prepare. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs enhance the shrimp. Serve it over pasta and wait for the compliments. —Lori Packer, Omaha, Nebraska
20
/
99
Chicken Thighs with Shallots & Spinach
What could be better than an entree that comes with its own creamy vegetable side? This healthy supper goes together in no time flat and makes an eye-catching presentation. —Genna Johannes, Wrightstown, Wisconsin
21
/
99
Fish with Crabmeat Topping
Crab-Topped Fish Fillets are elegant enough for company but truly no-fuss. We live in south Florida, where fish is abundant. We like to get together with friends in the afternoon, so I often need to whip up a quick dinner when we get home. This special fish is one of our favorites. —Mary Tuthill, Fort Myers Beach, Florida
22
/
99
Spicy Shepherd's Pie
Taco seasoning adds zip to this hearty main dish. It's easy to top with instant mashed potatoes, which I stir up while browning the beef. —Mary Malchow, Neenah, Wisconsin
23
/
99
Beef Lo Mein
This simple beef lo mein is easy to toss together with the veggies you have on hand. And since it uses spaghetti, you won't have to go searching for special noodles.
24
/
99
Apple-Mustard Chicken Tenders
My husband says this dish is sweet and a little bit sassy, just like me. I like to use Granny Smith apples for a bit of tartness. Winesaps are great for this dish, too. —Linda Cifuentes, Mahomet, Illinois
25
/
99
Tenderloin with Herb Sauce
Tender pork is treated to a rich and creamy sauce with a slight red pepper kick. This hearty dish is very simple to prepare and is always a dinnertime winner at my home. —Monica Shipley, Tulare, California
26
/
99
BLT Skillet
This quick weeknight meal reminds me of a BLT, with its chunks of bacon and tomato. The whole wheat linguine gives the skillet dish extra flavor and texture. —Edrie O'Brien, Denver, Colorado
27
/
99
Baked Tilapia
Your weeknight fish dinner doesn't get much easier or tastier than with this 20-minute baked tilapia recipe.
28
/
99
Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo
After tasting fettuccine Alfredo at a restaurant, I came up with this shrimp Alfredo with broccoli version at home. Not only does my family love the creamy dish, but my husband prefers it to the one at the restaurant. —Rae Natoli, Kingston, New York
29
/
99
Steak and Portobello Mushrooms
Steak and portobello mushrooms is a dish inspired by French cuisine, which is known for its rich, yet simple flavors. While this dish looks and tastes gourmet, it takes just 20 minutes to prepare.
30
/
99
Swiss Mushroom Chicken
Everyone enjoys the golden chicken breasts topped with ham, melted Swiss cheese and fresh mushrooms. It’s easy to prepare but looks and tastes special enough for company. —Jan Baxter, Humarock, Massachusetts
31
/
99
Skillet Lasagna
Skillet lasagna is made in a single skillet and features creamy, cheesy layers full of classic flavors. The best part? No oven required.
32
/
99
Fresh Corn and Tomato Fettuccine
This recipe combines delicious whole wheat pasta with fresh garden produce. It's tossed with heart-healthy olive oil, and a sprinkling of feta cheese gives it bite. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
34
/
99
Quick Chicken Piccata
Laced with lemon and simmered in white wine, this stovetop entree is super easy and elegant. Just add a side of veggies and bread to make it into a wonderful meal. —Cynthia Heil, Augusta, Georgia
35
/
99
No-Fuss Pork Chops
These tender chops taste like sweet-and-sour pork, but require little attention or time. I prepare them year-round, whenever I’m on a tight schedule but still want something scrumptious. —Sally Jones, Lancaster, New Hampshire
36
/
99
Broccoli Beef Braids
Each slice of this fast-to-fix golden bread is like a hot sandwich packed with beef, broccoli and mozzarella. —Penny Lapp, North Royalton, Ohio
37
/
99
Easy Chicken and Dumplings
If there's anything better than chicken and dumplings, it's quick and easy chicken and dumplings. This recipe fits the bill, coming together in just 30 minutes.
38
/
99
Vegetarian Linguine
Looking for a tasty alternative to a meat-and-potatoes meal? Try this colorful pasta dish, which is the brainchild of my oldest son. It’s a stick-to-your-ribs meal that includes loads of fresh veggies as well as basil and provolone. —Jane Bone, Cape Coral, Florida
39
/
99
Dijon-Crusted Fish
Dijon, Parmesan and a hint of horseradish give this toasty fish lots of flavor. The preparation is so easy, it takes just 5 to 7 minutes to get 4 servings ready for the oven. —Scott Schmidtke, Chicago, Illinois
40
/
99
Sausage and Sauerkraut
Sausage and sauerkraut is an easy 30-minute recipe that the whole family will love. We make this meat and potatoes dish in a single skillet, but you could easily bake it in the oven or use a slow cooker.
41
/
99
Chicken Provolone
Chicken Provolone, though one of my simplest dishes, is one of my husband’s favorites. It is easy to prepare and looks fancy served on a dark plate with a garnish of fresh parsley or basil. Add some buttered noodles for an easy side dish. —Dawn Bryant, Thedford, Nebraska
42
/
99
Penne with Veggies and Black Beans
Full of zucchini, tomatoes, sweet pepper and carrots, this hearty pasta dish puts your garden harvest to good use. For variety, I sometimes add one-half cup of salsa or one-half cup of thickened teriyaki sauce. —Vickie Spoerle, Indianapolis, Indiana
43
/
99
Cheese Tortellini with Tomatoes and Corn
Fresh corn and basil make this dish taste like summer. I think it’s a good one for bringing to picnics or gatherings, but it’s great along with any side dish for a weeknight dinner! —Sally Maloney, Dallas, Georgia
44
/
99
Asparagus Beef Saute
I love filet mignon, but I'm not crazy about its price, so I came up with a recipe for more affordable beef tenderloin. Now I cook it once a week. My husband loves the leftovers, too. —Linda Flynn, Ellicott City, Maryland
45
/
99
Busy-Day Pork Chops
It was time to use or lose some pork chops I had in the fridge, so I dressed them in bread crumbs and Parmesan and baked them up. Necessity sure is the mother of invention, and in this case I invented an amazing healthy pork chop recipe. —Dee Maltby, Wayne, Ohio
46
/
99
Cod with Sweet Peppers
This quick and delicious recipe is a long-time family favorite. I like to use three or four different-colored peppers for an extra-pretty presentation. Then serve with couscous or brown rice to round out the meal. —Judy Grebetz, Racine, Wisconsin.
47
/
99
Chicken, Rice and Beans
With pantry spices, salsa and lean chicken breast, our flavorful chicken, rice and beans recipe simmers up on the stovetop for a quick weeknight meal.
48
/
99
Easy Sausage and Vegetable Skillet
This is an old recipe that has been passed down in our family through my sister-in-law. When I was a child, she did most of the cooking in our house, and this was my favorite meal. The variety of vegetables makes this an attractive dish, and the cooking time is minimal. —Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, Louisiana
49
/
99
Nutty Cheese Tortellini
I like to plant Italian flat-leaf parsley in a long terra-cotta planter so I always have some on hand. It adds bright, fresh flavor to this pasta dish. —Barbara Penatzer, Vestal, New York
50
/
99
Cheesy Smothered Mushroom Chicken
You can't go wrong when serving this speedy skillet creation. Top tender chicken breasts with mushrooms, bacon, green onions and cheese for a swift and savory sensation that's sure to become a family favorite. —Penny Walton, Westerville, Ohio
51
/
99
Feta Shrimp Skillet
My husband and I tried a dish similar to this on our honeymoon in Greece. I re-created the flavors in this recipe when we got home. When I make it now, it brings back wonderful memories. —Sonali Ruder, New York, New York
52
/
99
Korean Beef and Rice
If you like bulgogi, think of this Korean beef and rice recipe as the quick-and-dirty version. Using ground beef instead of sliced steak, it's ready in just 15 minutes, start to finish.
53
/
99
Shrimp Pesto Pasta
Garden-fresh basil and plump shrimp combine for a shrimp pesto pasta bursting with alfresco vibes.
54
/
99
Crescent Turkey Casserole
How do you make a dinner of turkey and vegetables appealing to kids? You turn it into a pie, of course! My version tastes classic but doesn’t take any time at all. —Daniela Essman, Perham, Minnesota
55
/
99
Crusted Salmon
These delicious salmon fillets are wonderful for company since they take only a few minutes to prepare, yet they taste like you care. I receive requests for the recipe every time I serve them. —Kara Cook, Elk Ridge, Utah
56
/
99
Soupy Chicken Noodle Supper
At least once a week my six-year-old son, also known as Doctor John, hands me a “prescription” for chicken noodle soup. Needless to say, I'm always happy to fill it. —Heidi Hall, North St. Paul, Minnesota
57
/
99
Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash
Sweet acorn squash with sausage stuffing is surprisingly quick when you use the microwave to do the heavy lifting.
58
/
99
The Best Shepherd’s Pie
Our top-rated shepherd's pie recipe delivers a cozy, filling, homestyle dinner that never disappoints.
59
/
99
Brown Sugar-Glazed Salmon
A fantastic quick and easy weeknight meal that won’t seem as though it was quick and easy, this brown sugar-glazed salmon will always be welcome on the table.
60
/
99
Easy Cuban Picadillo
My girlfriend gave me this delicious recipe years ago. I’ve made it ever since for family and friends, and they all love it. My daughter loves to take leftovers to school for lunch the next day. —Marie Wielgus, Wayne, New Jersey
61
/
99
Hurry-Up Ham N Noodles
The rich-tasting dish is ready to serve in almost the time it takes to cook the noodles. I’ve made it for luncheons and potlucks, but mostly I make it on days when I’m in a hurry to get something on the table. —Lucille Howell, Portland, Oregon
62
/
99
Creamy Curried Chicken
This is a big hit in our house. My young son and daughter gobble it up. With its irresistible blend of curry and sweet coconut milk, it’ll become a favorite with your family, too. —Tracy Simiele, Chardon, Oh
63
/
99
Egg Roll Noodle Bowl
A delicious egg roll noodle bowl will make a quick, hearty weeknight dinner. You can add more veggies, top it with a poached egg, even make it vegetarian.
64
/
99
Easy Glazed Salmon
It takes only four ingredients and a few moments to make this delightful main dish. —Tara Ernspiker, Falling Waters, West Virginia
65
/
99
Shrimp Orzo with Feta
Tender, hearty and flavorful, this recipe is one of my favorites! Garlic and a splash of lemon add to the fresh taste and heart-healthy benefits of shrimp. —Sarah Hummel, Moon Township, Pennsylvania
66
/
99
Chicken Strips
Here's how to deep-fry or bake crispy, golden chicken strips, plus tons of ideas for how to serve them.
67
/
99
Savory Beer Pork Chops
These tender chops cooked in a savory sauce are perfect for a hectic weeknight because they're so easy to prep. Try them with hot buttery noodles. —Jana Christian, Farson, Wyoming
68
/
99
Beefy Biscuit Cups
On-the-go families will love these pizza-flavored goodies. They're made in a wink with convenient refrigerated biscuits and a jar of prepared spaghetti sauce. —Kimberly Ledon, St. Marys, Georgia
69
/
99
Lemon Shrimp with Parmesan Rice
I grew up in Biloxi, Mississippi, where rice, garlic and seafood are staples of Gulf Coast cuisine. This easy shrimp and rice dish is a longtime family favorite that's ready in minutes. —Amie Overby, Reno, Nevada
70
/
99
Sausage Bow Tie Pasta
This easy sausage bow tie pasta recipe is fantastic for busy weeknights. Whip it together with simple but tasty ingredients, and it will feed the whole family in just a few simple steps.
71
/
99
Burritos
Packed with beans, your choice of protein and a myriad of other potential fillings, this easy burrito recipe is your launchpad to unlimited flavor combinations.
72
/
99
Meatball Pizza
Meatballs, tomato sauce, cheese, pizza dough—a recipe for meatball pizza heaven.
73
/
99
Parmesan Baked Cod
This is a goof-proof way to keep oven-baked cod moist and flavorful. My mom shared this recipe with me years ago and I’ve been loving it ever since. —Mary Jo Hoppe, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
74
/
99
Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza
This recipe combines my two favorite foods—pizza and chicken cordon bleu. I've made this for my family and the teachers at my school. Now the teachers ask me to make it for them for lunch! —Justin Rippel, Colgate, Wisconsin
75
/
99
Pierogi Beef Skillet
Hearty and thick with beef, veggies and potatoes, this is a complete meal in one. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
76
/
99
Shrimp Pad Thai
This 30-minute shrimp pad thai recipe has all the iconic funky flavor of the traditional recipe, without some of the harder-to-find ingredients.
77
/
99
Pork Chops with Apples
For this version of pork chops and apples, you can serve the apple on the side or smother the chops with sauce. Either way, you’ve got a classic pairing of sweet pork, tart apple and aromatic spices.
78
/
99
Southwestern Goulash
I had some extra cilantro in the fridge and didn't want to throw it away. Instead, I came up with this delightful and filling family recipe. Everyone just loved it! —Vikki Rebholz, West Chester, Ohio
79
/
99
Turkey Breast Tenderloins with Raspberry Sauce
Sweet and tangy raspberry sauce is a perfect complement to versatile turkey tenderloins. In fact, this sauce is so good, you’ll be tempted to eat it with a spoon. —Deirdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri
80
/
99
Sweet-and-Sour Meatballs
A tangy sauce, green pepper and pineapple transform pre-made meatballs into something special. Serve them over rice for a satisfying main dish. —Ruth Andrewson, Leavenworth, Washington
81
/
99
Quick Beef Vegetable Soup
At the end of a long day, you want to put something quick, warm and substantial on the table for your family. This hefty vegetable soup delivers. It will have you out of the kitchen in no time flat! —D.M. Hillock, Hartford, Michigan
82
/
99
Southwest Chicken Dinner
I created a lighter, no-guilt alternative with the bold flavors we love, but missing the calorie-laden tortilla. —Marquisha Turner, Denver, Colorado
83
/
99
Saucy Mac & Cheese
I love the curly noodles in this creamy recipe. Cavatappi, also sold under the name cellentani, is a corkscrew pasta, but any type of spiral pasta will work. This dish is fun to make and looks so pretty topped with extra cheese and crunchy, golden crumbs. I like to add ground pepper to my serving. —Sara Martin, Brookfield, Wisconsin
84
/
99
Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia
I usually serve this crispy fish with tartar sauce and seasoned steamed veggies. It’s like a Friday night fish fry without all the calories! —Christi McElroy, Neenah, Wisconsin
85
/
99
Honey Chicken Stir-Fry
Who needs takeout when you've got this quick and delicious honey chicken stir-fry! Simple ingredients and a full-proof method mean dinner will be ready in a flash.
86
/
99
Beef Tenderloin and Mushroom Sauce
This beef tenderloin and mushroom sauce is ideal for any celebratory dinner. The flavorful drippings from the pan create the base for its creamy gravy topping.
87
/
99
Dill Sauce for Salmon
Dill sauce for salmon is a classic pairing. The easy baked salmon is full of lemon flavor, and the tangy, creamy sauce brings the whole dish together.
88
/
99
Tortellini Carbonara
Want a creamy pasta dish that's neither macaroni and cheese nor Alfredo? This tortellini carbonara hits all the right notes when it comes to cheesy goodness, not to mention the bacon. It's decadent, delicious and decidedly easy to make.
89
/
99
Buttery Parmesan Chicken
A rich, cheesy breading locks in this chicken’s natural juices, making it moist and tempting every time. Because it can be made in advance, I rely on it often during the week and when entertaining. —Kathie Landmann, Lexington Park, Maryland
90
/
99
Shrimp Monterey
For a special occasion or when company's coming, this delicious seafood dish makes a lasting impression. You'll be surprised at how fast you can prepare it. A mild, fresh-tasting sauce and the Monterey Jack cheese nicely complement the shrimp, I serve it over pasta or rice. —Jane Birch Edison, New Jersey
91
/
99
Cheeseburger Cups
This easy, 30-minute recipe for cheeseburger cups will please kids, adults and cheeseburger lovers everywhere.
92
/
99
Baked Tilapia
Baked tilapia is easy and quick to make and very versatile. Learn how to make it here.
93
/
99
Smothered Chicken Breasts
After trying a similar chicken dish in a restaurant, I decided to re-create it at home. Topped with bacon, caramelized onions and shredded cheese, this savory dish comes together in no time, and uses ingredients that I usually have on hand. And since it cooks in one skillet, it’s a cinch to clean up! —Brenda Carpenter, Warrensburg, Missouri
94
/
99
Herbed Lemon Pork Chops
Expect to get plenty of compliments on these fast, flavor-packed chops. They're tender and juicy. —Billi Jo Sylvester, New Smyrna Beach, Florida
95
/
99
Parmesan Chicken Nuggets
My 3-year-old went through a chicken-nuggets-and-french-fries-only stage, so I made these golden nuggets for him. Even the grown-ups like them! —Amanda Livesay, Mobile, Alabama
96
/
99
Skillet Meat Loaf
This convenient and flavorful skillet meat loaf cooks in just 30 minutes, using only one pan. It's perfect for a fuss-free dinner on busy evenings, without sacrificing taste.
97
/
99
Tangy Parmesan Tilapia
If you want a gluten-free fish coating, this works beautifully! Some reduced-fat mayos may contain gluten, though, so check the label on yours to be sure. —Deborah Purdue, Westland, Michigan
98
/
99
Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms
Savor the tender bites of chicken with spinach and mushrooms, a quick and easy dish that's healthy, tasty and perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Enjoy it over rice or pasta for a complete meal.
99
/
99
