Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, only to end up with a mediocre meal? Do you wish you had more time to cook, but your schedule just won’t allow it? Well, we’ve got good news for you! With these 20 easy recipes that use fewer than 5 ingredients each, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
From sweet treats like banana pancakes and chocolate mug cake to savory dishes like garlic butter shrimp and baked chicken thighs, our collection of quick and easy recipes has something for everyone. Plus, with fewer ingredients to worry about, you’ll spend less time shopping and more time enjoying your meals.
In this article, we’ll share our top 20 favorite recipes that are perfect for busy days when you need a meal fast. Whether you’re a busy professional or just looking for some quick and easy ideas to impress your family and friends, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Here’s a simple recipe that requires only three ingredients and yields deliciously chewy cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the peanut butter and sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Crack in the egg and mix until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned on the edges.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
4-Ingredient Garlic Butter Shrimp
Experience the rich flavors of garlic and butter infused in succulent shrimp with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are fully cooked.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
5-Ingredient Caprese Salad
A classic Italian salad, this 5-ingredient Caprese Salad is a simple yet flavorful combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Place a mozzarella round on top of each tomato slice.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, making sure each component is lightly coated.
4. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the salad in a zigzag pattern.
5. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves evenly over the salad.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( assemble just before serving)
3-Ingredient Banana Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pancakes using just three ingredients!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup pancake mix
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mashed bananas and pancake mix. Mix until well combined.
2. Crack in the egg and mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Enjoy your 3-Ingredient Banana Pancakes hot with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream!
4-Ingredient Baked Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. With just four ingredients, you’ll have juicy and flavorful chicken thighs without much effort.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and paprika.
3. Place chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tips:
– Make sure to pat dry the chicken thighs before baking for crispy skin.
– You can adjust the amount of garlic and paprika to your taste.
– Perfectly cooked chicken thighs are great on their own, but also pair well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
3-Ingredient Avocado Chocolate Mousse
This rich and creamy dessert is a game-changer for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without compromising on health. With just three ingredients, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Peel the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the chocolate chips and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, blending until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready to serve as soon as it’s chilled.
Enjoy your guilt-free indulgence!
5-Ingredient One-Pot Pasta
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights – with just five ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying pasta dish that’s ready in no time. And the best part? It’s all cooked in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Add the marinara sauce, mixed vegetables, and mozzarella cheese to the pot with the cooked pasta.
3. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
4-Ingredient Honey Mustard Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this 4-ingredient recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard for a flavorful and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and mustard until well combined.
5. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
3-Ingredient Oatmeal Energy Bites
Take a break from snacking on processed treats and whip up these no-bake oatmeal energy bites instead! Made with just three ingredients, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats and peanut butter until well mixed.
2. Add in the honey and mix until a dough forms.
3. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
4. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy bites are ready in just a few minutes of mixing and shaping.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy oatmeal energy bites!
5-Ingredient Tomato Basil Soup
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. With just five ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the fresh tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes) and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and vegetable broth.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
4-Ingredient Lemon Garlic Broccoli
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the pungency of garlic to elevate humble broccoli into a tasty side dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a healthy addition to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice until well coated.
3. Spread the broccoli mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
3-Ingredient Chocolate Mug Cake
In just minutes, you can enjoy a rich and moist chocolate cake in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon sugar-free chocolate chips or chocolate syrup
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine the cocoa powder and sugar-free chocolate chips or syrup.
2. Add the milk to the mug and stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove from the microwave and let cool for a minute or two before serving.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and easy 3-Ingredient Chocolate Mug Cake!
5-Ingredient Spinach and Feta Omelette
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast that’s ready in just a few minutes. This spinach and feta omelette is a perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and savory.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
4. Add the spinach leaves on one half of the omelette and sprinkle with feta cheese.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the eggs are almost set.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
4-Ingredient Sweet Potato Hash
A delicious and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for any meal. This 4-Ingredient Sweet Potato Hash is a flavorful and nutritious option that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet in an even layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
5. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, sauté the diced red onion in a skillet over medium heat until translucent.
6. Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and stir in the cooked red onion.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
3-Ingredient Strawberry Banana Smoothie
Beat the heat with this simple and delicious 3-ingredient smoothie that combines the sweetness of strawberries and bananas.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced banana, strawberries, and Greek yogurt to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired (you can add honey or maple syrup).
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
5-Ingredient Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Transforming steak into bite-sized morsels just got a whole lot easier with this simple 5-ingredient recipe. Rich, buttery goodness and savory garlic come together to create an irresistible flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the steak cubes to the butter mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Place the steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
4-Ingredient Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Almonds
Elevate your snack game with these 4-Ingredient Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Almonds that are perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almonds
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the almonds to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Spread the almond mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring every 4 minutes to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
3-Ingredient Pesto Pasta
A classic Italian dish with a twist – this recipe requires only three ingredients! Say goodbye to lengthy prep times and hello to a delicious, quick-fix meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 1/4 cup store-bought pesto
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the cooked pasta and pesto. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the pesto sauce.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and toss again until the cheese is melted and the pasta is evenly coated.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total recipe time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your 3-Ingredient Pesto Pasta!
5-Ingredient Avocado Tuna Salad
This tuna salad gets a creamy boost from the addition of ripe avocados, making it a perfect snack or light lunch option. With only 5 ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup of chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked tuna, diced avocado, and chopped red onion.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a quick snack or light lunch.
4-Ingredient Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
In just a few minutes, you can elevate humble Brussels sprouts into a delicious side dish with the rich flavor of balsamic glaze. This 4-ingredient recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and brush with balsamic glaze.
5. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is syrupy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Summary
Get quick and easy meals with these 20 recipes that require few ingredients! From sweet treats like 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies and 3-Ingredient Chocolate Mug Cake to savory dishes such as 4-Ingredient Garlic Butter Shrimp and 5-Ingredient One-Pot Pasta, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find healthy options like 3-Ingredient Avocado Tuna Salad and 4-Ingredient Lemon Garlic Broccoli. Perfect for busy days when cooking up a storm isn’t feasible, these recipes will become your new go-to for speedy yet delicious meals.
