19 Effortless Entrees for People Who Think They Can’t Cook

Struggling in the kitchen but still want to make meals that impress? Save yourself the hassle with 19 simple dishes perfect for the kitchen-challenged. Each dish takes minimal effort but delivers on flavor every time. No fancy techniques or hard-to-find stuff required—just plain, easy steps anyone can follow. Cooking has never been this simple and stress-free.

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

A plate of Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers sprinkled with chopped herbs.
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A fantastic option for a quick meal, these sausage and pepper wraps are rich and flavorful. You get that classic dish without needing much experience in the kitchen. Skip the hassle with Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. Anyone can whip this up in no time. It’s perfect for weekday dinners. Tastes just like a fancy restaurant version.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Need a comforting bowl after a long day? Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup is a soul-warming option that requires minimal skills. It’s like having a touch of Italy in your home. Just a few minutes of prep and you’re good to go. Perfect for family dinners or solo comfort. The flavors feel home-cooked with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

A closeup of Jason's Deli Irish Potato Soup.`
Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A tasty and easy soup, Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup is your go-to on a lazy day. It’s creamy but doesn’t need much cooking know-how. Perfect for when you need something hearty but don’t have the energy to cook. You’ll be amazed at its richness considering the simplicity. Perfect for soup lovers who are pressed for time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with several meatballs covered in tomato sauce, garnished with chopped basil.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a hands-off meal, these Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are wins. Just start the slow cooker and you’re free to do anything else. It’s simple but feels like a made-from-scratch classic. An easy meal for busy folks or when you just want something filling. No cooking expertise required to enjoy this. Great for family dinners without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Top-down shot of two Leftover Steak Soft Tacos on a slate board.
Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Turn your leftovers into something special with Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. Minimal effort turns yesterday’s meal into a delicious new dish. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or Sunday lunch. It’s all about making the most without making a mess. Easy to prepare, even for non-cooks. Comfort food made effortless.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Perfect for a snack or a side, these Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are a winner. Easy to make with just a few steps. Get that cheesy, bacon goodness without any kitchen prowess. An excellent choice for game nights or movie marathons. Feels like takeout without even leaving your house. Surprisingly simple but incredibly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Looking for a light yet filling meal that’s easy to make? Wild Rice Salad hits all the right notes. It’s hassle-free and you don’t need to be a kitchen wizard to put it together. Just mix the ingredients and enjoy. Great for lunch or a refreshing dinner. Pairs well with any main dish. Delightfully simple and nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots on parchment paper, topped with Alfredo cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of white sauce, placed on a dark rectangular slate plate.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Love loaded fries? Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots offers a fun alternative. They are easy and only need a few steps for incredible results. Perfect for a lazy evening or a quick snack. Satisfy your cravings with minimal effort. Enjoy restaurant-style indulgence at home. Each bite feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Tender and flavorful, Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips can be made quickly and with little fuss. Ideal for a wholesome dinner without hours in the kitchen. Perfectly matched with a side of veggies or rice. Just follow some straightforward steps and you’re done. Suitable for any day of the week. Enjoy steakhouse quality at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Mediterranean Chopped Salad with crumbled feta cheese, on a yellow plate with flower designs.
Mediterranean Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a refreshing meal, try a Mediterranean Chopped Salad. It’s quick to assemble and doesn’t require advanced skills. Great as a side or a main dish. Full of fresh ingredients that make it delightful. Simple and no cooking required. Perfect for anyone, even if you think you can’t cook.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

A roast beef sandwich with melted cheese on a hoagie roll, accompanied by crinkle-cut fries and a bowl of brown dipping sauce on the side.
Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A hearty sandwich can lift any meal, and Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich nails it. Little prep, but you get something super flavorful. Ideal for lunch or a light dinner. Easy to make, even for kitchen novices. Serve with a simple side and you’re set. Feels like takeout in the comfort of your home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cole’s French Dip Sandwich

Korean Galbi Ribs

Two Korean galbi ribs on a black slate plate with red chopsticks placed beside them.
Korean Galbi Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Step up your grilling game with Korean Galbi Ribs. Limited prep ensures you get delicious meat without much hassle. Rich in flavor and easy to cook, you don’t need advanced skills. Ideal for summer barbecues or a simple weeknight meal. Tastes great with just basic ingredients. Enjoy a complex dish with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche

Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche served on a pie dish.
Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ideal for brunch or a light dinner, Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche is a no-fuss option. No complicated steps, so it’s perfect for non-cooks. It’s both light and satisfying. Impress friends or family with this quick dish. The flavors come together effortlessly. Pairs well with a simple salad.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus & Ricotta Quiche

Ground Beef Fried Rice

Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner By Six.
Ground Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Fried rice is always a crowd-pleaser, and Ground Beef Fried Rice is no exception. Quick to put together and highly versatile. Great for using up leftovers too. This dish requires minimal kitchen skills. Perfect for when you’re craving takeout but want to stay home. Satisfying and easy to make, even for beginners.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Fried Rice

Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Four pieces of Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Can’t go wrong with Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken for an easy meal. Simple steps make this a go-to for weeknight dinners. It’s light but fulfilling and requires little cooking knowledge. Pairs well with nearly any side dish. Enjoy a homemade meal without stressing. A family favorite in no time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork

Shredded Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pulled Pork on a white plate.
Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a BBQ favorite without the hassle, try Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork. Needs minimal attention, but you get all the rich flavors. Ideal for family gatherings or summer cookouts. Just prep and let it cook. The taste is worth the little effort you put in. Perfect for non-cooks who want to impress.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you want a rich and hearty option, Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is a great pick. Let the slow cooker do the work while you take a break. A delicious choice with almost no effort. Ideal for busy days when you still want something home-cooked. It’s juicy and flavorful, impressing everyone without needing kitchen skills. Cook it without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Quick and easy, Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito is perfect for a fast meal. It doesn’t take advanced cooking skills to get this right. Excellent for lunch or dinner. Enjoy a familiar taste without having to go out. Quick assembly means more time to relax. Easy enough for anyone to make.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A cozy classic, Chicken Paprikash offers rich flavors without much effort. Ideal for those who love hearty meals but don’t want to spend hours cooking. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to make. Perfect for family dinners. With straightforward steps, anyone can do it. Enjoy a homestyle meal effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

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