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Home » Recipe Collections

25 Recipes Using Only 5 Ingredients You Probably Already Have

Published: Sep 23, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

5 ingredients are all you need to whip up some great meals, and chances are, you already have them in your kitchen. These recipes are perfect for when you want something quick, easy, and still packed with flavor, without a long shopping list or hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re pressed for time or just don’t want to overthink dinner, this roundup has you covered. From side dishes to snacks and desserts, you'll be amazed at how simple cooking can be with just a handful of ingredients. Let’s get straight to the good stuff!

A plate of pasta carbonara.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo Credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Side angle view of almond flour peanut butter cookies with one half-bitten cookie.
Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These almond flour peanut butter cookies are a quick and easy treat made with just 5 ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. They’re perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert when you're craving something simple yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

A straight view of cooked jeera rice in a white plate.
Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Quick Jeera Rice is an essential Indian side dish that uses only 5 ingredients, including cumin and basmati rice, to create a fragrant and fluffy base. It’s an easy way to upgrade your regular rice routine with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce

A close up view of cranberry sauce in white bowl, with a spoon and oranges in the background.
Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This canned cranberry sauce recipe takes just 5 ingredients to transform a pantry staple into a more flavorful version, perfect for holiday meals. It’s a great way to add a homemade touch to any meal without much prep work involved.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Canned Cranberry Sauce

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus on foil-lined baking sheet with lemon slice.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Grilled asparagus is a simple, 5-ingredient dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners. It only takes 25 minutes to prepare, making it an easy side option you can whip up in no time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A close up view of pecan pie cheesecake slice on a white plate, with a fork on the side.
No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This no-bake pecan pie cheesecake is a great dessert option that requires only 5 ingredients and 30 minutes of active prep time. It's a hassle-free way to bring a rich, creamy dessert to the table, with a vegan version available too.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Pasta Carbonara

A plate of pasta carbonara.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pasta Carbonara is a flavorful Italian dish made with 5 simple ingredients, including pasta, eggs, and bacon, for a creamy and satisfying meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's a great choice for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Chocolate Chip Cookies Without Brown Sugar

Overhead image of various chocolate chip cookies on a cooling rack.
Chocolate Chip Cookies Without Brown Sugar. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

These chocolate chip cookies without brown sugar are a quick and easy dessert made with just 5 ingredients, requiring no mixer or special tools. Enjoy them warm from the oven for a gooey chocolate treat without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies Without Brown Sugar

Easy Caprese Salad

An image of easy caprese salad.
Easy Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Caprese Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that comes together with just 5 ingredients: tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze, and olive oil. Perfect as an appetizer or side, it’s a quick way to enjoy summer flavors with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole

Zucchini and summer squash alternated in a dish topped with breadcrumbs.
Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Zucchini and Squash Casserole uses only 5 ingredients to create a visually appealing and tasty dish. Alternating slices of zucchini and yellow squash make this an easy and colorful side, perfect for holidays or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole

Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Bucatini cacio e pepe in a bowl with a gold fork and a pepper mill off to the side.
Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bucatini cacio e pepe is a classic Italian pasta dish made with 5 ingredients, including Pecorino Romano cheese and pasta water. This creamy, cheesy dish is budget-friendly and easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight meal option.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Gluten-Free Granola

A bowl of homemade granola with fresh blueberries.
Gluten-Free Granola. Photo credit: Sage Alpha Gal.

Homemade granola is a simple 5-ingredient recipe that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. With pantry staples like oats, honey, and nuts, you can easily whip up this nutritious treat any time.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Granola

Blackstone Green Beans

Blackstone Green Beans with pepper and salt in a white bowl with a spoon.
Blackstone Green Beans. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Blackstone Griddle green beans are a quick and easy 5-ingredient side dish that’s ready in just 10 minutes. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Green Beans

Chocolate Covered Ice Cream Bites

Chocolate covered ice cream bites on a piece of parchment paper.
Chocolate Covered Ice Cream Bites. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Chocolate Covered Ice Cream Bites are an easy 5-ingredient frozen treat that combines Oreo cookies, ice cream, and chocolate. These bites are perfect for making ahead and storing in the freezer, offering a grab-and-go dessert whenever the craving strikes.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Covered Ice Cream Bites

Pepper Gravy

Pepper gravy on pork chop with black pepper garnish and fresh rosemary.
Pepper Gravy. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Pepper gravy is a rich, creamy sauce made with only 5 ingredients, delivering a bold pepper flavor that pairs well with biscuits, fried chicken, or mashed potatoes. This simple recipe makes it easy to add a flavorful homemade touch to your favorite comfort foods.
Get the Recipe: Pepper Gravy

Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette

A green salad tossed with balsamic dressing in a white bowl with a jar of salad dressing beside it.
Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Lemon balsamic vinaigrette is a quick and easy dressing made with just 5 ingredients, perfect for topping salads or drizzling over roasted veggies. This homemade dressing takes minutes to prepare and adds a tangy, flavorful kick to any dish.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette

Vanilla Creme Brûlée

Overhead view of three servings of vanilla creme brulee on white plates and napkins with a blue background.
Vanilla Creme Brûlée. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Vanilla Creme Brûlée is a decadent dessert that you can make at home with only 5 ingredients. This recipe turns a restaurant classic into a simple, elegant dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you want something sweet.
Get the Recipe: Vanilla Creme Brûlée

Air Fryer Apple Pie Bites

Apple pie bites cut open to show the apple filling inside.
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bites. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air fryer apple pie bites are a quick and easy dessert idea made with just 5 ingredients, featuring a cinnamon apple filling wrapped in a flaky biscuit crust. This recipe is perfect for a fast treat, and the air fryer makes it even easier with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Pie Bites

Spanish Omelette with Cauliflower

A picture of Spanish Omelette with Cauliflower and fresh parsley leaf.
Spanish Omelette with Cauliflower. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

This Spanish omelette with cauliflower is a hearty breakfast option made with only 5 ingredients. It’s a quick and easy way to start your day, packed with vegetables and protein, and ready in just minutes.
Get the Recipe: Spanish Omelette with Cauliflower

Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

Four chocolate shortbread cookies on white placemat with clear glass of milk in background.
Chocolate Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Chocolate shortbread cookies require just 5 ingredients to combine the rich taste of chocolate with the crisp texture of shortbread. These cookies are easy to make and perfect for an afternoon snack or holiday treat.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

Pesto Salmon

Top view of pesto salmon in a plate.
Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pesto salmon is a quick and healthy dinner option that’s made with just 5 ingredients and bakes in less than 25 minutes. It’s an easy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknight cooking when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon

Squash Casserole

An image of a squash casserole.
Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This yellow squash casserole uses only 5 ingredients and takes just 30 minutes to bake, making it an easy, cheesy dish that’s great for family gatherings. It’s a comforting side that comes together quickly with ingredients you probably already have.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole

Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Sauteed Cast Iron Brussels Sprouts with Bacon in a white bowl with red pepper flakes, a spoon, and a fork.
Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Sautéed Cast Iron Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is an easy 5-ingredient recipe that comes together quickly in a cast iron skillet. With the crispy Brussels sprouts and salty bacon, this side dish is packed with flavor and ready in just minutes.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Cast Iron Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

PB&J Flourless Cookies

Cooling rack with flourless peanut butter thumbprint cookies topped with jam with a jar of jam and a spoon behind them.
PB&J Flourless Cookies. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Peanut butter thumbprint cookies are an easy spin on the classic peanut butter and jam sandwich, made with just 5 ingredients. These cookies are perfect for quick baking, giving you a sweet treat with minimal ingredients and effort.
Get the Recipe: PB&J Flourless Cookies

Corn Flake Cookies

Corn Flake cookies on white plate.
Corn Flake Cookies. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Corn Flake Cookies are a no-bake treat made with only 5 ingredients, including cereal, chocolate, and peanut butter. They're quick to prepare and offer a simple yet indulgent snack that’s great for any time of the year.
Get the Recipe: Corn Flake Cookies

5-Ingredient Salted Ginger Almond Butter Cookies

Close-up of 3 salted ginger almond butter cookies.
5-Ingredient Salted Ginger Almond Butter Cookies. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Salted Ginger Almond Butter Cookies are gluten-free, dairy-free, and made with just 5 simple ingredients, making them a great option for anyone craving something sweet. Their chewy texture and rich flavor are easy to achieve with pantry staples.
Get the Recipe: 5-Ingredient Salted Ginger Almond Butter Cookies

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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