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Home » Recipe Collections

38 Easy Recipes That Are So Good, They Don’t Even Feel Like Cooking

Published: Nov 4, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Easy recipes are a lifesaver when you want to whip up something great without spending all day in the kitchen. These dishes are not only quick to make but also packed with flavor, so you can enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re just looking to keep things simple, these recipes prove that cooking doesn’t have to be a chore. Dive into this collection and discover how effortless and delicious home-cooked meals can be!

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

Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

An image of lemon butter pasta in a bowl.
Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This lemon butter pasta is an easy, quick weeknight option that’s bright, buttery, and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. It's a great choice when you want a gourmet touch without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

Vegan Rasta Pasta

Vegan Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan rasta pasta is an easy and excellent go-to for weeknight dinners, as it can be made in just 30 minutes. The creamy and mildly spicy flavors combine with vibrant ingredients, making it feel like a dish you’ve labored over for hours, perfect for impressing friends.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Rasta Pasta

Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

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

Ready in 30 minutes, this easy Instant Pot tortellini soup is packed with fresh veggies and cheese tortellini. It offers comforting warmth and is a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal when you need something hearty and quick.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

Sheet Pan Bibimbap

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

This easy sheet pan bibimbap comes together in just 35 minutes and features a colorful mix of roasted veggies, crispy tofu, and bold Korean flavors. It’s a great option for a flavorful meal that keeps cleanup minimal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Bibimbap

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.

Bucatini cacio e pepe, adapted from a traditional Roman recipe, uses just three ingredients for a quick and authentic pasta experience. This recipe is a superb choice for easy fall dinners when you crave a comforting yet simple meal.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Green Beans and Potatoes

An image of green beans in a serving bowl with a spoon resting on it.
Green Beans and Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tender green beans and potatoes are perfectly seasoned in this easy side dish that can be ready in just 25 minutes. It makes a quick, wholesome addition to any Friendsgiving table and complements a variety of main courses.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans and Potatoes

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.

This one-pot lemon ricotta pasta is a breeze to make, ready in just 15 minutes. It serves as an easy option for weeknight meals, uniting everyone at the table with its fresh flavors and minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Kale Salad With Cranberries

A horizontal image of kale salad with cranberries.
Kale Salad With Cranberries. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This easy kale salad with cranberries, zesty lemon, and crunchy nuts can be prepared in just 5 minutes. Its refreshing flavors make it a quick side dish that pairs well with any main course, enhancing your fall menu.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad With Cranberries

Kale Harvest Salad

An overhead image of kale salad in a large serving bowl.
Kale Harvest Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A fall kale salad featuring carrots and dates is easy to assemble in just 15 minutes. This nutritious dish is a convenient option for weeknight meals, allowing you to enjoy seasonal flavors without taking too much time.
Get the Recipe: Kale Harvest Salad

Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Make an easy homemade Margherita pizza in just 20 minutes using fresh ingredients. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or a simple meal that delivers flavor without the hassle of a long cooking process.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Overhead image of a plate of creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This easy copycat Panera broccoli cheddar mac and cheese is ready in just 20 minutes, making it a quick and creamy dinner option. It's comforting and perfect for those nights when you want something warm without the lengthy preparation.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Creamy and loaded with veggies, this easy broccoli cheddar soup can be ready in just 35 minutes. It’s a comforting bowl that’s great for a cozy weeknight meal, making it a fantastic choice for cool evenings.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Stuffed Baked Potatoes

A close-up image of stuffed baked potatoes.
Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These easy stuffed baked potatoes are filled with mushrooms, spinach, and cheddar and can be prepared in just 30 minutes. They are a simple, hearty addition to any Friendsgiving meal, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Easy Cranberry Salad with Pecans

An image of cranberry salad with pecans served in a white salad bowl with a fork on the side.
Easy Cranberry Salad with Pecans. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

An easy cranberry pecan salad featuring tangy goat cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans can be tossed together in just 10 minutes. This quick and nutritious option makes for a protein-packed meal or side dish that complements any menu.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cranberry Salad with Pecans

Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Close-up image of sweet potato kale salad in a bowl.
Sweet Potato Kale Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The sweet potato and kale salad combines roasted sweet potatoes and fresh kale with a tangy dressing. Prepping this easy dish ahead of time can streamline your Thanksgiving meal preparations while adding a balanced option to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes)

A close up image of cheesy potatoes in a casserole, garnished with parsley.
Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These cheesy potatoes, baked with a chive-infused sauce and crispy cornflake topping, are ready in just 35 minutes. They serve as a comforting side dish for Friendsgiving, making it easy to please a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes (with Real Potatoes)

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.

This easy, quick no-drain Instant Pot mashed potato recipe is creamy and garlicky, ready in no time. It's a perfect option for Friendsgiving, ensuring that you have something fast and crowd-pleasing on the table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb

Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Easy green beans stir-fried with coconut and Indian spices create a flavorful South Indian dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. This dish is a healthy and quick option for fall dinners, pairing well with rice or flatbread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Mediterranean Roasted Lamb

Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

A top-down view of stir-fried green beans with coconut on a white plate, accompanied by a white napkin and fork.
Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These easy green beans stir-fried with coconut and Indian spices come together to create a flavorful South Indian dish that pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbread. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is a healthy and quick choice for your fall dinners.
Get the Recipe: Stir Fry Green Beans with Coconut

Easy Egg Rolls

An image of vegan egg rolls arranged on a serving dish with sweet chili sauce on the side.
Easy Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These vegan egg rolls are crispy and packed with flavor, ready in just 20 minutes. They serve as a quick and easy snack or appetizer, making them perfect for Friendsgiving gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Egg Rolls

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This easy copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa features sweet corn, tangy lemon and lime, along with smoky roasted poblano peppers. This versatile salsa is perfect as a dip, a topping for tacos, or an enhancer for salads, adding a burst of flavor to any fall meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Mushroom Stroganoff

An image of mushroom stroganoff and white rice on a plate, with a fork on the side.
Mushroom Stroganoff. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This easy creamy, savory mushroom stroganoff is ready in just 30 minutes and provides a comforting option for dinner. Whether served over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, it's a quick choice for a cozy meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Stroganoff

Carrot Casserole

An overhead image of baked carrot casserole.
Carrot Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

An easy carrot casserole with a creamy cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping comes together quickly and easily. This comforting dish is an excellent option for a cozy Friendsgiving dinner, ensuring everyone feels right at home.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Casserole

Air Fryer Pizza

A pizza is being cooked in an air fryer.
Air Fryer Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Easy Air Fryer Pizza is a fun way to enjoy a crispy crust and melty cheese without the need to heat a traditional oven. It's perfect for busy weeknights or pizza nights, offering a delightful spin on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza

Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos

A close-up image of gochujang cauliflower tacos on a plate, accompanied by a small bowl of lime slices and sliced red onions.
Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crispy Korean spiced cauliflower tacos are not only versatile but also a delicious make-ahead meal. With various topping options, they offer a fun and easy way to enjoy a flavorful dinner any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos

Flank Steak Pinwheels

Flank Steak Pinwheels. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These easy flank steak pinwheels stuffed with pesto, parmesan, prosciutto, and spinach are packed with flavor. Whether for Friendsgiving or a casual dinner, these pinwheels are sure to please a crowd with their impressive presentation and taste.
Get the Recipe: Flank Steak Pinwheels

Naan Pizza

An image of naan pizza with different toppings on each.
Naan Pizza. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Enjoy three quick and easy naan pizza options—Margherita, Veggie, and Mediterranean—that make for a fun and customizable meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, these pizzas cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, perfect for any weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Naan Pizza

Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad

Close-up image of copycat aroma espresso bar fried halloumi salad.
Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This easy fried halloumi salad features arugula, cabbage, and mushrooms, adding bold flavors to your Friendsgiving table. The crispy cheese combined with an Asian-inspired sauce complements a variety of holiday dishes beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Aroma Espresso Bar Fried Halloumi Salad

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.

With simple, fresh ingredients, this easy pasta fresca can be ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a quick solution for a Friendsgiving meal that keeps the preparation stress-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca

Cranberry Pesto Stuffed Lamb

Cranberry Pesto Stuffed Lamb. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This easy cranberry pesto stuffed American lamb dish, made with basil, mint, garlic, and pine nuts, brings a festive touch to your Friendsgiving. This dish is perfect as the centerpiece of a holiday meal, impressing guests with its rich flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pesto Stuffed Lamb

Mushroom Masala

An image of cooked mushroom masala in a skillet.
Mushroom Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This easy hearty mushroom masala is ready in just 30 minutes, featuring tender mushrooms in a creamy tomato-coconut sauce. It's a great pairing with rice or naan, making it a flavorful addition to your fall dinner lineup.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Masala

Spicy Tofu Tacos

Side view of tacos on a plate, one with bite taken out.
Spicy Tofu Tacos. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Easy spicy tofu tacos present a satisfying meat-free option, featuring zesty tofu and bold spices. These tacos are a fantastic choice for a flavorful, plant-based meal that fits seamlessly into fall menus.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tofu Tacos

Veggie Pinwheels

An image of veggie pinwheels on a serving plate.
Veggie Pinwheels. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Quick and easy veggie pinwheels are a light snack or lunch option, combining fresh vegetables with creamy hummus. These pinwheels are a hit in my home, making them a great choice for gatherings or everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pinwheels

Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole

Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Easy roasted Brussels sprouts with pancetta, feta, and pomegranate create a flavorful casserole that stands out at any Friendsgiving gathering. This dish is a perfect side for the season, bringing together contrasting tastes and textures.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprout Pomegranate Pancetta Feta Casserole

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 quick and easy fried rice is made with day-old rice and whatever ingredients you have on hand. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a practical choice for busy nights, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Get the Recipe: Quick Fried Rice with Leftover Rice

Best Lasagna

Best Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic lasagna features layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheeses, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-friendly choice for Friendsgiving that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Best Lasagna

Spicy Vodka Pasta

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This easy take on spicy vodka pasta can be made without vodka and adapted for vegan or vegetarian options. It’s a great weeknight dinner or a relaxed meal to share with friends, offering rich flavors with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

Stewed Tomatoes

An image of stewed tomatoes in a serving bowl.
Stewed Tomatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Easy stewed tomatoes are a quick and cozy topping that can be ready in just 20 minutes. They are perfect for pasta, toast, or eggs, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Stewed Tomatoes

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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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