18 Surprisingly Easy Recipes to Try (Even If You Hate Cooking!)
Here are 18 surprisingly easy recipes to try—even if you hate cooking. These dishes require minimal prep, basic ingredients, and little cleanup. Whether you’re a reluctant cook or just short on time, these meals are designed to be stress-free and satisfying.
1. One-Pan Baked Chicken and Veggies
This recipe is all about convenience and flavor. Toss tender chicken breasts or thighs with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of garlic, and your favorite chopped vegetables. Imagine vibrant bell peppers, earthy carrots, and sweet cherry tomatoes all mingling together. Slide them onto a baking sheet and pop it in the oven.
In no time, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that requires minimal cleanup. The chicken turns juicy and the veggies caramelize beautifully. A single pan, a few ingredients, and a deliciously satisfying dish—perfect for those who want something simple yet scrumptious.
2. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is the epitome of simplicity meeting flavor. All you need is garlic, olive oil, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and spaghetti. With just these pantry staples, you can whip up a delightful meal in 15 minutes.
The garlic infuses the oil, creating a fragrant base that clings to every strand of pasta. The slight heat from the red pepper flakes elevates the dish to a new level. Whether it’s a late-night craving or a quick dinner, this dish is your go-to solution for taste without the fuss.
3. Sheet Pan Nachos
Craving something quick and indulgent? Sheet Pan Nachos are your answer. Start by layering tortilla chips on a baking sheet, then sprinkle with shredded cheese and canned beans. Add toppings of your choice—think jalapenos, sliced olives, and diced tomatoes.
Bake until the cheese is melty and golden. Once out, finish with a dollop of salsa or sour cream. These nachos are perfect for game day or a spontaneous snack. They’re fun, customizable, and absolutely irresistible. With minimal effort, you get maximum satisfaction.
4. Microwave Mug Omelet
Need breakfast in a hurry? The Microwave Mug Omelet is here to save your morning. Simply whisk eggs with chopped veggies, a handful of cheese, and seasonings directly in a mug. Pop it in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, and voila!
A fluffy, personalized omelet ready to go. Perfect for busy mornings or a quick protein fix. It’s customizable, quick, and mess-free. Enjoy the savory aroma of eggs mingling with fresh peppers and onions, all from the convenience of your microwave.
5. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is your ticket to effortless comfort food. Toss a pork shoulder into your slow cooker with BBQ sauce and a few simple spices. Set it and forget it as it cooks low and slow all day.
The result? Fall-apart tender pork perfect for sandwiches or tacos. It’s a crowd-pleaser with minimal hands-on time. The rich, smoky aroma fills your home, teasing your taste buds. Serve with classic sides like coleslaw and corn for a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.
6. Quesadillas
Quesadillas are the ultimate quick and cheesy delight. Grab some tortillas and fill them with cheese and whatever leftovers you have—cooked chicken, sautéed veggies, or beans work perfectly. Cook in a skillet until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melty.
They’re versatile and incredibly satisfying. Each bite offers a crunchy exterior with a gooey center, an irresistible combination. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a snack, quesadillas make life easier and tastier. Plus, they’re great for using up odds and ends in your fridge.
7. Frozen Veggie Stir-Fry
Frozen Veggie Stir-Fry makes healthy eating a breeze. Start with a bag of frozen stir-fry vegetables—broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas are great choices. Sauté them in a hot pan with a splash of soy sauce.
Add a scrambled egg or cooked chicken for protein, and you’ve got a complete meal in minutes. It’s vibrant, nutritious, and requires little effort. The veggies retain their crunch, and the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy a guilt-free, delicious meal that’s quicker than takeout.
8. Baked Salmon with Lemon and Garlic
Baked Salmon with Lemon and Garlic is elegance made easy. Place salmon fillets on a piece of foil, drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, and sprinkle with minced garlic and herbs. Seal the foil and bake until the salmon is tender and flaky.
It’s a dish that impresses with minimal effort. The citrusy brightness from the lemon perfectly complements the rich, buttery salmon. A healthy, gourmet meal without the hassle, perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
9. Crockpot Chili
Crockpot Chili is the definition of set it and forget it. Combine canned beans, ground beef or turkey, diced tomatoes, and spices in a slow cooker. Let it simmer all day, filling your home with the tantalizing scent of spices.
The result is a hearty, comforting bowl of chili with zero fuss. Top with cheese, jalapenos, or sour cream for added flavor. It’s ideal for cold days or when you want something fulfilling without spending hours in the kitchen.
10. Tuna Melt Sandwich
Tuna Melt Sandwiches are a quick, satisfying classic. Mix canned tuna with a dollop of mayo, a sprinkle of salt, and pepper. Pile onto bread, layer with cheese, and toast until golden and gooey.
The combination of creamy tuna and melted cheese is pure comfort. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a go-to for busy lunches or casual dinners. Enjoy with a side of pickles or potato chips for a complete meal.
11. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup is the ultimate comfort duo. Use your favorite bread and cheese for the sandwich, and pair with canned or boxed tomato soup. Grill until the bread is crispy and the cheese is perfectly oozy.
Dip the sandwich into the warm, tangy soup for a nostalgic meal that warms the soul. It’s simple, satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for rainy days or when you need a hug in a bowl.
12. Pasta with Jarred Sauce and Frozen Meatballs
Pasta with Jarred Sauce and Frozen Meatballs is comfort food at its quickest. Boil your favorite pasta, heat up jarred sauce and frozen meatballs, and combine.
In minutes, dinner is served with almost no effort. The rich sauce clings to the pasta, and the meatballs add hearty satisfaction. It’s an easy way to bring Italian dining to your table without the fuss. Ideal for busy nights or when you need a quick comfort fix.
13. Egg Fried Rice (with Leftovers)
Egg Fried Rice is a delicious way to reinvent leftovers. Start with cold, leftover rice, and toss in scrambled eggs and frozen peas. Add a splash of soy sauce and stir-fry in a hot pan.
It’s a quick, flavorful meal that makes use of what you have on hand. The rice turns golden and fragrant, while the eggs and peas add bursts of color and nutrition. An economical and tasty dish that’s ready in no time.
14. Baked Potatoes with Toppings
Baked Potatoes with Toppings offer endless possibilities. Microwave or bake potatoes until tender, then get creative with toppings. Cheese, sour cream, green onions, or leftover chili all work beautifully.
Each potato is a blank canvas for flavor, making it a fun and customizable meal. They’re hearty, satisfying, and perfect for any time of day. Plus, it’s an easy way to use up leftovers and create something delicious.
15. Mini Pita Pizzas
Mini Pita Pizzas are fun-sized and full of flavor. Spread sauce and cheese on pita bread, add your favorite toppings, and bake for about 10 minutes.
These mini pizzas are perfect for quick meals or parties, offering variety and ease. Each bite is crispy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. They’re a delightful way to enjoy pizza without the hassle of dough-making. Customize with toppings like pepperoni, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a personal touch.
16. No-Cook Chickpea Salad
No-Cook Chickpea Salad is refreshingly simple. Toss canned chickpeas with diced cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of herbs.
The result is a fresh and filling salad that requires zero cooking. It’s light, nutritious, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy side dish. Enjoy the crispness of the veggies and the tangy lemon dressing with each bite.
17. Bagel Sandwiches
Bagel Sandwiches are versatile and satisfying. Use fresh bagels and fill them with cream cheese, deli meat, egg, or avocado. Each sandwich is a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Whether for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, they’re quick and easy to assemble. The creaminess of the cheese, the richness of the meat, and the freshness of the greens create a balanced and tasty meal. Bagel sandwiches make everyday meals feel special.
18. Breakfast-for-Dinner Scramble
Breakfast-for-Dinner Scramble is a fun twist on traditional dining. Scramble eggs with cheese and any leftover veggies you have—peppers, onions, and mushrooms are all great choices. Serve with toast, fruit, or frozen hash browns for a full meal.
It’s a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of day. The creamy eggs mingle with melted cheese and fresh vegetables, creating a colorful and satisfying plate. Ideal for those who love breakfast flavors beyond the morning hours.