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Home » Recipe Collections

25 5-Ingredient Recipes So Easy, They Feel Like Cheating

Published: Jan 11, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Looking for quick fixes in the kitchen? These 5-ingredient recipes are so easy, they feel like cheating. Whether you're a busy parent, a kitchen novice, or just someone who loves great food without the fuss, these dishes deliver on simplicity and taste. From savory dinners to sweet treats, each recipe proves that less can truly be more when it comes to cooking up something delicious in no time.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Pesto-Salmon.jpg

Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Authentic Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Close up of cacio e pepe in white bowl with fork and spoon.
Authentic Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This three-ingredient bucatini cacio e pepe is simple to prepare and inspired by authentic Roman flavors. Perfect for a quick, foolproof pasta dish that tastes like a restaurant classic.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Overhead view of green beans placed on a paper towel on a platter.
Din Tai Fung Green Beans. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Garlic green beans, inspired by a beloved restaurant dish, are a family favorite made with only four ingredients. A fast and easy option that pairs well with any meal.
Get the Recipe: Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Crispy Kimchi Pancakes (Kimchijeon)

A close-up image of kimchi pancake on a white plate with chopsticks beside it.
Crispy Kimchi Pancakes (Kimchijeon). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These four-ingredient kimchi pancakes are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. Pair with soy or your favorite dipping sauce for an easy-to-make treat.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Kimchi Pancakes (Kimchijeon)

Roasted Oyster Mushrooms

A close up image of roasted oyster mushrooms placed in a plate over a napkin.
Roasted Oyster Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted oyster mushrooms are a quick, four-ingredient side ready in 30 minutes. They’re versatile enough for salads, tacos, sandwiches, or to serve on their own.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Oyster Mushrooms

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

A close up image of air fryer brussels sprouts.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer Brussels sprouts come together with five ingredients in just 20 minutes. Whether as a side or salad topper, they’re quick and effortless to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air Fryer Artichoke

A white plate with two grilled artichoke halves and a small stone bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Artichoke. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer artichokes, inspired by a classic Roman-Jewish recipe, are ready in 45 minutes with minimal effort. This five-ingredient dish is great for springtime meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Artichoke

3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Broccoli cheese casserole requires just three ingredients and is ready in 30 minutes. A convenient, wholesome option for busy days that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

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.

Jeera rice, made with cumin-infused basmati, is an effortless staple with fluffy, separate grains. A classic recipe that’s both quick and beginner-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Quick Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

Grilled Asparagus

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

This grilled asparagus recipe is a quick way to embrace the season with only five ingredients. Ready in 25 minutes, it’s a great choice for summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Pesto Salmon

Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pesto salmon is a five-ingredient baked dinner ready in less than 25 minutes. An easy, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed dinners.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon

Fried Avocado

A top view image of a bowl of avocado fries laying on a cooling rack.
Fried Avocado. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crispy baked avocado fries use five ingredients and are a lighter snack option. Serve them with a creamy dipping sauce for an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe.
Get the Recipe: Fried Avocado

Pasta Carbonara

Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pasta Carbonara combines creamy and savory flavors with only five ingredients. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a great way to prepare an impressive meal quickly.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Air Fryer Halloumi

Air Fryer Halloumi. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Air fryer halloumi is golden and crispy in just 10 minutes with five simple ingredients. A quick, savory snack that’s effortless to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Halloumi

5-Minute Spicy Chicken Wrap

5-Minute Spicy Chicken Wrap. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Leftover chicken tenders transform into a quick wrap with just five ingredients. A fast and practical lunch for busy days or game-day meals.
Get the Recipe: 5-Minute Spicy Chicken Wrap

Ground Beef Egg-in-a-Hole

Ground Beef Egg-in-a-Hole. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Ground beef and eggs make a playful twist on egg-in-a-hole, ready in five minutes. This four-ingredient breakfast is a fun, high-protein start to your day.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Egg-in-a-Hole

Easy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders

Easy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders on a black plate with parsley.
Easy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Lemon pepper chicken tenders from the air fryer require only three ingredients and 15 minutes. A no-hassle dinner solution when time is tight.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Instant Pot mac and cheese, made with five ingredients, is ready in minutes. A simple, kid-friendly dinner that’s perfect for a cozy evening.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Chicken Salad

Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This five-ingredient chicken salad comes together in no time and is easy to customize. A quick solution for lunches or light meals with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad

Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Legs

Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Legs on a blue plate with parsley.
Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Buffalo chicken legs from the air fryer use only two ingredients and minimal effort. Juicy and flavorful, they’re perfect for nights when simplicity is key.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Legs

Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole

Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Zucchini and squash casserole is a five-ingredient recipe that’s great for the holidays. The layered colors make this an easy yet visually striking side dish.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini & Summer Squash Casserole

Easy Caprese Salad

Easy Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Caprese salad is a summer classic with just five fresh ingredients: tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze, and olive oil. A versatile dish for appetizers or sides.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops

Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Crock Pot ranch pork chops use only three ingredients for a hands-off dinner. Toss them in the slow cooker for a no-fuss meal with great flavor.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Easy Caprese pasta requires five ingredients or fewer and works as a main dish or side. Perfect for quick dinners, potlucks, or next-day leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pasta Salad

Spanish Omelette with Cauliflower

Spanish Omelette with Cauliflower. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

A five-ingredient Spanish omelette is a simple and hearty breakfast. Quick to make and great for starting the day with a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Spanish Omelette with Cauliflower

Blackstone Green Beans

Blackstone Green Beans. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Blackstone Griddle green beans are a five-ingredient side ready in 10 minutes. A quick, flavorful choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Green Beans

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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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