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Home » Recipe Collections

38 Easy Meals So Simple You’ll Want Them On Repeat

Published: Mar 31, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Easy meals don’t have to be boring—they can be packed with flavor and downright crave-worthy. Whether you’re short on time or just want something simple, these recipes hit the sweet spot of being quick, foolproof, and seriously good. No need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just straightforward dishes that are great for busy nights or lazy weekends. You’ll be coming back to these again and again.

An overview of a plate full of Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots with a dip.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Straight view of cooked one-pot lemon ricotta pasta garnished with rocket and fresh basil leaves placed in a white plate with a fork on the side.
One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon ricotta pasta is a one-pot dish that takes only 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a convenient choice for a quick dinner or part of a meal plan when you want something simple.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice

Horizontal image of fried rice in a white bowl with brown chopsticks on the side.
Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This fried rice comes together in 15 minutes using day-old rice and whatever ingredients you have on hand. A fast, flexible meal that works well for lunch or dinner when time is short.
Get the Recipe: Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice

Instant Pot Minestrone

An overhead image of a bowl of minestrone soup served in a white bowl, accompanied by a spoon on the side and a white cloth underneath.
Instant Pot Minestrone. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Instant Pot vegetable soup combines fresh vegetables and beans for a hearty meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a practical option for making nutritious lunches or dinners in advance.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Minestrone

Sheet Pan Bibimbap

A bowl of Sheet Pan Bibimbap with a pair of chopsticks.
Sheet Pan Bibimbap. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This sheet pan bibimbap features roasted vegetables, crispy tofu, and bold Korean flavors. Ready in 35 minutes, it’s a practical choice for meal prep that combines convenience and taste.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Bibimbap

Instant Pot Jollof

A close-up of a pot with cooked jollof rice with a person's hand holding a red spatula.
Instant Pot Jollof. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

The Instant Pot version of Nigerian Jollof Rice delivers rich tomato and pepper flavors with minimal effort. A great option for batch cooking, making it easier to prepare a flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jollof

Microwave Broccoli

An overhead photo of microwave broccoli in a white plate.
Microwave Broccoli. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Microwave broccoli holds its bright color and nutrients, making it a quick and easy side. Ready in under 5 minutes, it’s a simple way to add vegetables to weeknight meals without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Broccoli

Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Close up of mashed potatoes with a slice of butter and a golden spoon.
Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamy Instant Pot mashed potatoes with garlic require no draining, making them an easy side dish. Versatile enough for everyday meals or holiday spreads without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Potato And Sausage Chowder

Overhead image of cozy bowl of potato and sausage chowder with breads on the side.
Potato And Sausage Chowder. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

One-pot potato and sausage chowder is packed with hearty ingredients for a comforting meal. A simple way to prepare something filling, especially on colder days.
Get the Recipe: Potato And Sausage Chowder

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

A serving of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells on a plate.
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells combine seasoned beef, peppers, and provolone in a rich dish. It’s a reliable choice for making a hearty meal the whole family can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer sweet potato tater tots make a simple side dish, snack, or appetizer. A handy recipe for quick meal prep or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots

Air Fryer Cod

Air Fryer Cod. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Air fryer cod with lemon and spices is ready in under 20 minutes. A simple recipe for creating quick, light dinners with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cod

Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Bruschetta stuffed chicken breasts, made in the air fryer, include tomatoes, provolone, and herbs. A practical option for quick, protein-rich meals during busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Easy, Creamy Microwave Mashed Potatoes

An image of microwave mashed potatoes in a bowl with fresh herbs on top and a fork resting on the right side of the bowl.
Easy, Creamy Microwave Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Microwave mashed potatoes use just a few ingredients for smooth, consistent results. A quick option for preparing a side dish without extra steps.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy Microwave Mashed Potatoes

Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese And Vegetables

Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese And Vegetables. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This sheet pan caprese chicken with vegetables is perfect for busy nights. A simple recipe for prepping a meal that works well throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese And Vegetables

Nigerian Jollof Rice

A close up image of nigerian jolloff rice garnished with slices of red onion and bay leaves.
Nigerian Jollof Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

One-pot Nigerian Jollof Rice is rich in tomato and pepper flavors with a crispy bottom layer. A 30-minute recipe that’s great for gatherings or meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Jollof Rice

Air Fryer Skirt Steak

Air Fryer Skirt Steak. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Skirt steak in the air fryer cooks quickly, delivering juicy, flavorful results. A straightforward option for making a well-cooked steak without needing a grill.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Skirt Steak

Instant Pot Corn Chowder

An image of instant pot corn chowder in a bowl with a spoon resting on the side.
Instant Pot Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot corn chowder with sweet corn, potatoes, and cheddar is creamy and filling. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s a simple meal to add to your weekly plans.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Corn Chowder

Juiciest Air Fryer Ribeye

Juiciest Air Fryer Ribeye. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Air fryer ribeye steak delivers juicy, tender results with minimal effort. A straightforward way to prepare a well-cooked steak without a grill.
Get the Recipe: Juiciest Air Fryer Ribeye

Microwave Rice

An image of a bowl full of white basmati rice with a spoon sitting on top of the rice.
Microwave Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Microwave rice is ready in just minutes with almost no effort. A handy addition to meal prep that makes dinner planning easier.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Rice

Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Air Fryer Filet Mignon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Air fryer filet mignon delivers tender, steakhouse-quality results with minimal prep. A straightforward way to make a well-cooked meal without extra steps.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

An overhead image of slow cooker French onion soup.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Slow cooker French onion soup combines caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and thyme. A smart choice for prepping ahead and having a rich meal ready when needed.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Two chicken leg quarters on a grey plate sprinkled with parsley with a broccoli salad in the background.
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air fryer chicken leg quarters turn out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. A simple way to prepare flavorful dinners any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Sheet Pan Turmeric Salmon with Cherry Sauce

Sheet Pan Turmeric Salmon with Cherry Sauce. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sheet pan turmeric salmon pairs a quick garlic cherry sauce with roasted broccoli for a balanced meal. This recipe makes dinner prep easier without sacrificing nutrition or flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Turmeric Salmon with Cherry Sauce

Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

An overhead image of microwave mac and cheese in a bowl with a spoon.
Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Microwave mac and cheese is a fast way to make individual servings or round out a meal. Ready in minutes, it’s a practical solution for busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

Delicious Air Fryer Honey Mustard Pork Chops

Delicious Air Fryer Honey Mustard Pork Chops. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer honey mustard pork chops take only 30 minutes, making them a hassle-free dinner. A great option for preparing flavorful meals on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Air Fryer Honey Mustard Pork Chops

Sheet Pan Meal Prep Tofu

Sheet Pan Meal Prep Tofu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted tofu with cabbage and peppers is a sheet pan recipe that simplifies vegetarian meal prep. A solid choice for making healthy dishes that last.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Meal Prep Tofu

Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Air Fryer Salmon Bites and a salad on a plate with a fork.
Air Fryer Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Air fryer salmon bites are quick to make and packed with protein. A convenient addition to meal prep for easy, nutritious dishes throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Instant Pot Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Casserole

Instant Pot Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Leftover turkey wild rice casserole turns holiday leftovers into a filling dish. A practical way to make meals that last through the week.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Casserole

Lentil Vegetable Soup

Lentil Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Instant Pot lentil vegetable soup combines mushrooms, green beans, and spinach into a rich dish. A convenient way to prepare a nutritious meal without spending extra time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Vegetable Soup

Easy Instant Pot Pork Chops

Easy Instant Pot Pork Chops. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These Instant Pot pork chops come out tender and flavorful with little hands-on time. A reminder of how easy meal prep can be with the right approach.
Get the Recipe: Easy Instant Pot Pork Chops

One Pan Baked Moroccan Salmon

One Pan Baked Moroccan Salmon. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Moroccan salmon with cauliflower, lemon, and spices makes for a flavorful dinner with little prep. A convenient option for adding variety to weekly meals.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Baked Moroccan Salmon

Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

An overhead image of two cabbage soups in a white serving bowl.
Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

One-pot vegan cabbage soup is packed with vegetables and bold flavors. A reliable option for preparing nutritious meals without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

Air Fryer Short Ribs

Air Fryer Short Ribs. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer short ribs turn out tender with minimal hands-on effort. A practical way to prepare a rich meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Short Ribs

Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

An image of instant pot tortellini soup in a bowl.
Instant Pot Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Instant Pot tortellini soup features vegetables and cheese tortellini in a rich broth. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s an easy way to prepare a comforting meal without a long cooking process.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

Instant Pot Buttery Lemon Chicken Pasta with Zucchini and Squash

Instant Pot Buttery Lemon Chicken Pasta with Zucchini and Squash. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Buttery lemon chicken pasta with zucchini and squash is made entirely in the Instant Pot. A straightforward option for adding a balanced meal to your weeknight routine.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Buttery Lemon Chicken Pasta with Zucchini and Squash

Spicy Alfredo Pasta

An overhead iimage of two spicy alfredo pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Alfredo Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This spicy Alfredo pasta has a creamy red pepper base with a blend of herbs. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a practical option for busy nights or prepping ahead.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Alfredo Pasta

Blackened Cod

Blackened Cod. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Blackened cod, made with pantry spices and a quick pan-sear, comes together fast. A time-saving recipe for a well-seasoned meal in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Cod

Microwave Asparagus

An overhead image of microwave asparagus in a serving plate with slices of lemon on the side.
Microwave Asparagus. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Microwave-steamed asparagus is ready in just 5 minutes, making it a quick and nutritious side. A hassle-free way to add vegetables to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Microwave Asparagus

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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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