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Home » Recipe Collections

38 Lazy Comfort Foods for When You Can’t Deal With Cooking

Published: Feb 7, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Lazy comfort foods are the go-to when you want something great to eat but can't deal with a big cooking project. These recipes are perfect for keeping things simple without sacrificing flavor. They’re all about minimal effort with maximum payoff—because sometimes you just need good food without the hassle. Whether it's a lazy weekend afternoon or a hectic weeknight, these are the kinds of meals that hit the spot without draining your energy.

A bowl of rice topped with a fried egg and Thai Basil Pork – Pad Kra Pao.
Thai Basil Pork. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

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 is ready in just 30 minutes, packed with veggies and cheese tortellini. It’s a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for lazy evenings when you want a hearty dish with minimal cooking time.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortellini Soup

Spicy Soba Noodles

An overhead image of spicy soba noodles in a bowl.
Spicy Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These spicy soba noodles bring bold flavors with nutty noodles, crisp veggies, and a fiery sauce. A quick and easy meal, it’s perfect for a lazy night when you’re craving something with a bit of kick but don’t want to spend too much time cooking.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Soba Noodles

Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

An overhead image of vegan white bean chili with toppings.
Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This quick and easy vegan white bean chili is made in just 30 minutes using pantry staples. It’s a hearty, nutritious option that’s perfect for lazy evenings when you want a warm meal without a lot of prep.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos

An overhead image of three sweet potato black bean tacos.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These sweet potato black bean tacos feature smoky sweet potatoes, spiced black beans, and zesty lime crema. They’re quick and easy to prepare, making them an excellent option for lazy weeknights when you want something full of flavor without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos

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.

Creamy mushroom stroganoff is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great option when you need something comforting in a hurry. Pair it with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a filling meal that doesn’t require much work.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Stroganoff

Vegan Rasta Pasta

Vegan Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan rasta pasta comes together in 30 minutes with a creamy texture and mild spice. It’s an easy, flavorful option for lazy nights when you want a meal that’s vibrant yet simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Rasta Pasta

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 are filled with savory beef, peppers, and creamy provolone, making them a satisfying meal for the whole family. These shells come together easily and are perfect for lazy nights when you want something comforting with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

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 copycat Panera broccoli cheddar mac and cheese is creamy, comforting, and cooks in just 20 minutes. It's perfect for lazy nights when you need a quick, rich meal that doesn’t require a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Thai Basil Pork

Thai Basil Pork. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Thai basil pork (pad kra pao) is a flavorful street food dish made with savory ground pork, garlic, chilies, and fragrant basil. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for lazy weeknights when you want something bold and filling in no time.
Get the Recipe: Thai Basil Pork

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.

Lemon butter pasta is bright, buttery, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights. It’s a great option when you want something quick yet full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

Grilled Steak with Herbed Scallion Topping

Grilled Steak with Herbed Scallion Topping. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Grilled steak with herbed scallion topping combines juicy steak with bacon and scallions, creating a flavorful dish with minimal effort. It’s great for lazy summer nights when you want a satisfying meal with easy prep.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak with Herbed Scallion Topping

Juiciest Air Fryer Ribeye

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

Air fryer ribeye steak is a fast and easy way to enjoy a juicy steak without a lot of cleanup. It’s perfect for lazy evenings when you want a flavorful, well-seasoned meal with very little prep.
Get the Recipe: Juiciest Air Fryer Ribeye

Garlic Tomato Shrimp Scampi Without Wine

Garlic Tomato Shrimp Scampi Without Wine. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Garlic tomato shrimp scampi skips the wine but still packs a rich, flavorful punch. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a great option for lazy weeknight dinners when you want a seafood dish without a lot of work.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Tomato Shrimp Scampi Without Wine

Kung Pao Tofu

An image of kung pao tofu served in a bowl over rice.
Kung Pao Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kung Pao tofu features bell peppers, tofu, peanuts, and a bold sauce for a colorful, crunchy dish. It’s easy to make in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for lazy evenings when you want something quick and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Tofu

Coffee Rubbed Steak

Coffee Rubbed Steak. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Coffee-rubbed steak delivers earthy flavors and a crispy crust, offering a quick, indulgent meal in no time. It’s perfect for lazy evenings when you want a flavorful dinner without a lot of preparation.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Rubbed Steak

Bucatini Pasta with Garlic Shrimp

Bucatini Pasta with Garlic Shrimp. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bucatini pasta with garlic shrimp and cherry tomatoes is a simple dish that can be made in under 30 minutes. It's perfect for busy nights when you need a satisfying meal without much preparation.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini Pasta with Garlic Shrimp

Starbucks Copycat Spinach Feta Wrap

Starbucks Copycat Spinach Feta Wrap. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This homemade spinach feta wrap is a budget-friendly version of the popular Starbucks wrap, packed with egg whites, spinach, and feta. It’s great for breakfast or lunch and perfect for lazy meal prep, as it freezes well.
Get the Recipe: Starbucks Copycat Spinach Feta Wrap

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

An overhead image of broccoli pesto pasta served in a plate.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Broccoli pesto pasta is made with roasted broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and toasted lemon zest for a fresh, flavorful meal. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a simple yet satisfying dish for lazy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Italian Drunken Noodles

Italian Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Italian drunken noodles deliver a bold mix of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and pappardelle noodles. It's a great option for lazy midweek dinners when you want something full of flavor without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Italian Drunken Noodles

Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

An overhead image of gochujang tofu rice bowl with chopsticks on the side.
Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gochujang tofu is golden and crispy with a Korean-inspired sweet and spicy sauce, all made in 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy vegan option that’s perfect for lazy nights when you want something flavorful and filling.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

Chicken Milanese

Chicken Milanese. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Chicken Milanese is a quick and easy recipe that combines juicy chicken with garlic and parmesan flavors. It's a perfect option when you need a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Milanese

Thai Red Curry Soup

Thai Red Curry Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Red curry Thai noodle soup is packed with bold flavors and can be made in just 25 minutes. It’s a perfect alternative to takeout, offering a quick, flavorful meal that’s easy to adapt to what you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Thai Red Curry Soup

Easy Instant Pot Pork Chops

Easy Instant Pot Pork Chops. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Instant Pot pork chops cook up tender with a sweet and spicy garlic sauce, ready in no time. It’s a simple yet comforting meal, perfect for lazy evenings when you need a hearty dish with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Instant Pot Pork Chops

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.

Korean spiced cauliflower tacos are crispy and full of flavor, perfect for lazy days when you want an easy, no-fuss dinner. They’re simple to make ahead and can be adjusted to your taste with a variety of toppings.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos

20-Minute Silky Golden Noodles

20-Minute Silky Golden Noodles. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Silky noodles in a rich golden sauce made with Earth Echo Golden Superfood Bliss offer creamy, exciting flavors. These naturally gluten-free and vegan noodles are easy to make and perfect for lazy days when you need a wholesome, filling meal.
Get the Recipe: 20-Minute Silky Golden Noodles

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.

Pasta fresca is made with fresh ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for lazy nights. It’s a light, flavorful dish that comes together quickly with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca

Air Fryer Honey Mustard Pork Chops

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

Air fryer honey mustard pork chops are juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes. This tangy dish is perfect for lazy weeknights when you want something quick, flavorful, and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Mustard Pork Chops

Pasta alla Norma

An overhead image of Pasta alla Norma in a bowl with another bowl of pasta on the side.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta alla Norma combines rich tomato sauce, sautéed eggplant, and fresh basil for a comforting meal. It’s a great option for lazy nights when you want a hearty, flavorful dish with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Garlic parmesan pasta is a hearty, filling dish that combines the irresistible flavors of Parmesan cheese and garlic. It’s perfect for lazy nights when you want something simple yet satisfying without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Mushroom Masala

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

Mushroom masala features tender mushrooms in a creamy tomato-coconut sauce that comes together in just 30 minutes. It pairs perfectly with rice or naan, making it an easy, flavorful dinner for lazy nights.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Masala

10-Minute Gochujang Noodles

10-Minute Gochujang Noodles. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Creamy and spicy gochujang noodles are ready in just 10 minutes, making them a perfect option when you need a quick, bold meal. They’re an excellent choice for lazy evenings when you want something quick, flavorful, and filling.
Get the Recipe: 10-Minute Gochujang Noodles

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.

This hearty potato and sausage chowder is packed with savory flavors and cooks in just one pot. It’s the perfect meal for chilly nights when you want something comforting with very little work.
Get the Recipe: Potato And Sausage Chowder

Sesame Tofu

An overhead image of sesame tofu with rice on the side.
Sesame Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This crispy sesame tofu, paired with caramelized veggies and a nutty sauce, is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, offering a quick, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Tofu

Beef Yaki Udon Noodle Stir Fry

Beef Yaki Udon Noodle Stir Fry. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Beef yaki udon is a quick stir-fry with beef, vegetables, and noodles all in one dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a filling and satisfying meal that’s great for lazy weeknights when you need something quick and easy.
Get the Recipe: Beef Yaki Udon Noodle Stir Fry

Spicy Vodka Pasta

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

Spicy vodka pasta, with or without the vodka, is easy to make and packed with bold flavors. It’s a fantastic option for lazy weeknights when you want something quick and flavorful without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

Air Fryer Cheesy Bacon Hasselback Chicken

Air Fryer Cheesy Bacon Hasselback Chicken. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Cheesy bacon hasselback chicken combines crispy bacon and spinach with juicy chicken in a creamy, flavorful meal. This air fryer dish is a great go-to for lazy nights when you want something indulgent with minimal work.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheesy Bacon Hasselback Chicken

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 is made with caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and a hint of thyme. It’s a cozy, comforting dish that requires little effort but delivers a hearty, warming meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

Stuffed Pepper Soup

Overhead image of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.
Stuffed Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This comforting stuffed pepper soup brings all the flavors of stuffed peppers into one hearty tomato-based soup. It’s perfect for lazy evenings when you want a cozy meal that requires little prep.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Soup

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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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