Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, only to be left with a sink full of dishes and a rumbling stomach? If so, we’ve got just the solution for you! Skillet cooking is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With just one pan to clean, these recipes are not only quick and easy but also deliciously satisfying.
From hearty protein-packed meals like Garlic Butter Skillet Steak and One-Pan Skillet Chicken Alfredo, to comforting vegetable-based dishes like Vegetable Skillet Stir-Fry and Skillet Honey Mustard Chicken, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? You don’t have to be a master chef or have hours of free time to prepare these meals – just grab your trusty skillet and get cooking!
Garlic Butter Skillet Steak
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Skillet Steak recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of the garlic butter mixture to the preheated skillet.
5. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve with remaining garlic butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Skillet Chicken Alfredo
A creamy and satisfying one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and transfer skillet to oven. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Skillet Beef and Broccoli
A quick and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy day. This skillet dish combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory flavors for a meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and pour in the beef broth and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Skillet Taco Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of a taco with the comfort of pasta, all in one delicious skillet dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or bowtie)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer; let cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until well combined with the beef and tomato mixture.
6. Top with shredded cheese and cook until melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Honey Mustard Chicken
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional skillet chicken, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
4. Pour the honey-mustard mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
5. Toss the chicken to coat with the sauce and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Skillet Stir-Fry
Quick and easy, this vegetable skillet stir-fry recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies on the table. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the bell peppers and zucchini; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry for about 1 minute, or until they’re tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add soy sauce or stir-fry sauce for added flavor.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Skillet Sausage and Peppers
Get ready for a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal with this Skillet Sausage and Peppers recipe! This classic combination of juicy sausage, colorful peppers, and savory spices is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sausage and cook for 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the peppers, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the peppers are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Skillet Cornbread
A classic Southern comfort food, this skillet cornbread is a simple and delicious addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a warm, crumbly, and utterly satisfying side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large skillet, combine milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the hot skillet and cook for 2 minutes or until edges start to set.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and firm to the touch.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 17-22 minutes
Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp
This recipe is a perfect combination of bright citrus flavors, savory garlic, and succulent shrimp, all cooked to perfection in one skillet. It’s an easy and impressive dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp and add white wine (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
One-Pan Skillet Lasagna
This recipe takes the traditional lasagna to new heights by simplifying the cooking process and eliminating the need for multiple pots and pans. The result is a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Arrange cooked lasagna noodles on top of the meat sauce.
6. Spread ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Skillet BBQ Chicken Nachos
Transform your snack game with this mouthwatering skillet full of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add BBQ sauce and stir until coated; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in the skillet, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Place cooked chicken on top of the nachos.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Easy Skillet Pineapple Fried Rice
Whip up a tasty and effortless meal with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of pineapple, rice, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add the diced pineapple, soy sauce, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Skillet Mushroom and Spinach Quesadilla
Elevate your snack game with this savory and satisfying skillet quesadilla filled with sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (5-7 minutes).
2. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted (1-2 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle one-fourth of the cheese on half of the tortilla, and spoon the mushroom-spinach mixture on top.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Skillet Mac and Cheese
A comforting twist on a classic macaroni and cheese dish, this one-pan skillet recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll be enjoying a creamy, cheesy meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Skillet Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this easy and flavorful skillet dish! Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with garlic and parmesan goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced potatoes in a single layer, cooking for 5 minutes or until they start to brown.
3. Sprinkle the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Top with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie
Looking for a delicious dessert that’s ready in no time? This skillet cookie is the perfect solution. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Pour mixture into a 9-inch oven-safe skillet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly gooey.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Skillet Teriyaki Salmon
A flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the savory sweetness of teriyaki sauce, all cooked to perfection in one skillet.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet and swirl to coat.
4. Place salmon fillets in the skillet and brush with teriyaki sauce mixture.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Skillet Beef Stroganoff
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying meal with this one-pan wonder! This recipe is a twist on the classic beef stroganoff, with all the tender beef, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce cooked in just one pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your busy weeknights with these 18 quick and easy skillet recipes! From savory favorites like Garlic Butter Skillet Steak and One-Pan Skillet Chicken Alfredo, to comforting classics like Easy Skillet Mac and Cheese and Skillet BBQ Chicken Nachos, there’s something for everyone. Plus, try new twists on old staples, such as Cheesy Skillet Taco Pasta and Skillet Lemon Garlic Shrimp. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, these skillet recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
