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Home » Recipe Collections

25 Simple Recipes That Don’t Require a Ton of Ingredients (But Taste Amazing)

Published: Oct 26, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Keeping meals simple doesn’t mean skipping on taste, and a few ingredients can go a long way in making something special. With these easy recipes, there’s no need to gather a long list of things just to cook a great meal. They’re perfect for busy days or when the pantry’s running low, yet they’re still packed with flavor. Simple steps and basic ingredients mean anyone can whip up something tasty without the hassle.

A spoonful of chicken casserole with a Ritz cracker topping.
Chicken on The Ritz Casserole. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Panzanella Salad

An overhead image of panzanella salad served on a white plate with dressing on top of it.
Panzanella Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Make the most of stale bread with this classic dish. Panzanella Salad mixes bread with fresh veggies for a simple yet satisfying meal. Ready in no time, it's perfect for a light lunch or side dish. No fancy ingredients required, just honest flavors.
Get the Recipe: Panzanella Salad

Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Easy cheesy hamburger casserole in bowl with onion garnish.
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Whip up a comfort food classic with minimal effort. This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole combines hearty beef, pasta, and lots of cheese into one satisfying dish. Perfect for a busy night, it’s a surefire way to please the whole family. No need for fancy ingredients or elaborate steps here.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Korean Pickled Radish

A close-up of a glass jar filled with small, cubed pieces of radish, seasoned with red chili flakes.
Korean Pickled Radish. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Add a tangy crunch to your meals with minimal effort. Korean Pickled Radish is easy to prepare and stores well. Perfect as a side or condiment, adding a burst of flavor. You’ll appreciate how little work it takes.
Get the Recipe: Korean Pickled Radish

Raw Carrot Salad

An overhead image of raw carrot salad on a plate.
Raw Carrot Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fresh and crunchy with a simple prep. Raw Carrot Salad is light and refreshing. Great as a side dish or even a healthy snack. Enjoy it when you need something quick and nutritious. It's quick to prepare and uses minimal ingredients. A great way to enjoy raw vegetables in a flavorful way. Perfect as a side or light lunch.
Get the Recipe: Raw Carrot Salad

Jamaican Rasta Pasta

An overhead image of cooked rasta pasta on a serving bowl.
Jamaican Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vibrant and easy to make, this dish is a treat. Jamaican Rasta Pasta combines colorful veggies and a creamy sauce with a hint of spice. It’s a particularly good option when you want something different without a lot of prep. A vibrant addition to your dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Rasta Pasta

Pasta e Piselli

An image of Pasta e Piselli served in a bowl.
Pasta e Piselli. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This simple yet satisfying dish just uses a few ingredients. Pasta e Piselli mixes peas and pasta for a delicious meal. It's a quick fix for busy nights when you’re craving carbs and greens. Boiling and mixing are all it takes.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Piselli

3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies

Side angle view of piped Nutella cookies on a wooden board lined with parchment paper.
3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Quick and easy with maximum flavor. 3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth in a hurry. Just mix, bake, and enjoy. Minimal ingredients make them a fuss-free dessert.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Hands holding paprika chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This one-pan meal keeps things simple without skimping on flavor. Enjoy tender chicken and roasted veggies seasoned to perfection in Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Cleanup is a breeze with everything cooked on a single sheet pan. Great for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Chicken on The Ritz Casserole

A spoonful of chicken casserole with a Ritz cracker topping.
Chicken on The Ritz Casserole. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

For an easy dinner idea, look no further. Chicken on The Ritz Casserole features creamy chicken topped with crunchy crackers for a delightful contrast in textures. Throw it together in no time for a quick, comforting meal. Ideal for busy nights or when you need comfort food in a pinch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken on The Ritz Casserole

Peanut Butter Brownies

Peanut Butter Brownies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Enjoy a rich dessert without much work. Peanut Butter Brownies combine chocolate and peanut butter in a way that’s easy and quick. Perfect for when those sweet cravings hit. A few ingredients are all you need.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies

Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken

Roasted chicken thighs with butternut squash, cauliflower, and rice on a plate.
Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Making dinner doesn’t get much easier. With Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken, you get a flavorful meal featuring sweet and savory notes. Everything cooks together on one pan, reducing both prep and cleanup. Ideal for when you need a flavorful meal with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken

3-Ingredient Vegan Mango Sorbet

3-Ingredient Vegan Mango Sorbet. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Refreshing and easy to make. 3-Ingredient Vegan Mango Sorbet provides a fruity taste with minimal ingredients. Perfect for hot days when you need a cool treat. Just blend, freeze, and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Vegan Mango Sorbet

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.

Enjoy earthy mushroom flavors with minimal ingredients. Roasted Oyster Mushrooms offer a chewy texture and rich taste. Simple to prepare, they can be a great side dish or meat substitute. They bring a special touch to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Oyster Mushrooms

Pasta Fresca

An overhead image of pasta fresca in a white plate with cheese and tomatoes in the background.
Pasta Fresca. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A refreshing pasta dish you can whip up in no time. Pasta Fresca combines fresh ingredients for a light, flavorful meal. Perfect for warmer days or when you want something quick yet satisfying. Don't worry about a long ingredient list or complex steps.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca

Enchilada Sauce

Enchilada Sauce in a glass container with a spoon on top.
Enchilada Sauce. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Enhance your Mexican dishes effortlessly. This Gluten Free Enchilada Sauce is simple to make and tastes fantastic. Perfect for those needing a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor. It’s a great addition to your kitchen staples.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Sauce

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes in a Dutch oven, with wooden spoon.
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Ultimate comfort food made easy. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes blend creamy potatoes and melty cheese for a dish everyone will love. Great for holidays or any day. A no-fuss side that complements almost anything.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

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.

Nutty and naturally gluten-free. Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies come together with minimal ingredients. They’re perfect when you need a quick dessert or snack. Requires just a few pantry staples for a tasty treat.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Mini Caramel Apples

Mini Caramel Apples on a stick and dipped in sugar.
Mini Caramel Apples. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Great as a treat or a fun party snack. Mini Caramel Apples require minimal ingredients and effort. These bite-sized delights are perfect for kids and adults alike. They make for an enjoyable, hands-on activity.
Get the Recipe: Mini Caramel Apples

Mexican Corn Salad

An overhead image of Mexican corn salad with the ingredients fully mixed together.
Mexican Corn Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Bright and full of flavor without overcomplicating things. Mexican Corn Salad is quick to throw together and makes a great side dish. Perfect for summer barbecues or casual meals. Simple ingredients combine for a refreshing taste.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad

Pumpkin Pie Granola

Bowl of yogurt topped with granola next to a cup of coffee.
Pumpkin Pie Granola. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Great for a seasonal treat or everyday snack. Pumpkin Pie Granola is easy to make and brings a comforting flavor. Perfect for breakfast or as a topping for yogurt. You’ll love how simple it is to put together.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Granola

Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Bites

Close-up image of punmpkin spice chocolate chip biites.
Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Bites. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A festive treat that’s a breeze to prepare. Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Bites feature the beloved fall flavor without too much fuss. They’re ideal for a quick snack or dessert. A no-fuss way to enjoy pumpkin spice.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Bites

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.

With just three ingredients, this dish is incredibly simple. 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole brings together broccoli, cheese, and one more staple for a harmonious flavor. It’s perfect for when you need to get a meal ready fast. Great for potlucks or weekday dinners.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Butternut Squash Chips

Top view of butternut squash chips in a black plate.
Butternut Squash Chips. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Crunchy and easy to make. Butternut Squash Chips require just a few ingredients and are a healthier alternative to regular chips. They’re perfect for snacking or serving as a side. A simple way to get your veggies in.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Chips

Danish Butter Cookies

Four swirled butter cookies, each nestled in a white paper liner, arranged on a wooden tray.
Danish Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Experience this classic treat with little effort. Danish Butter Cookies are buttery and melt-in-your-mouth good. Great for festive occasions or just everyday snacking. Simple ingredients blend together beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Danish Butter Cookies

Pumpkin Spice Honey Caramel Apples

Three Pumpkin Spice Honey Caramel Apples.
Pumpkin Spice Honey Caramel Apples. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Get that autumn flavor in a few steps. Pumpkin Spice Honey Caramel Apples combine sweet and spicy for a seasonal treat. Easy to prepare and perfect for parties or just a fun snack. Enjoy the taste of fall with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Honey Caramel Apples

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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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