Short On Time? 15 Easy Recipes When You’re In A Pinch

Ever feel like there are just not enough hours in the day, especially when it comes to making a decent meal? You’re not alone. The good news is, this list of recipes is for us folks who are pressed for time. These are the go-to meals for whipping something up real quick that still tastes like you’ve put some effort into it. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress someone!

A tray of loaded tater tots topped with Alfredo sauce, scallions, and green onions on a wooden table next to plates and utensils.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken in a bowl with a bowl of rice in the background.
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

If you’ve got a craving for something with a bit of kick, this Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken has you covered. It has a quick turnaround time, making it a snap for a weeknight fix. With ingredients you likely have in your pantry, it brings the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

A bowl of salmon pasta salad with a creamy dressing, garnished with a sprig of dill.
Easy Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Looking for a dish you can toss together in no sweat? Easy Salmon Pasta Salad is a light, refreshing option that goes from fridge to table quickly. It is ideal for a last-minute lunch or a simple dinner after a busy day. This dish combines flaky salmon with pasta and fresh veggies, all tossed in a creamy dressing.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Croquettes on a white plate with tomatoes and broccoli.
Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Feel like a chef with Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes. These are simpler than they sound and are sure to add a fancy twist to dinner without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. They offer a satisfying crunch and are paired with savory sides to complete your meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat HelloFresh Crispy Shallot Pork Croquettes

California Eggs Benedict

Eggs benedict with ham and avocado on an English muffin served on a black plate.
California Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Jazz up your brunch with California Eggs Benedict, an easy-peasy version of the classic. It won’t have you spending all morning in the kitchen. This sunny twist on the traditional Eggs Benedict includes slices of avocado and tomato, adding fresh and healthy elements to your breakfast or brunch.
Get the Recipe: California Eggs Benedict

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A hand holding a fork over a bowl of Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka on a wooden table.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

When you’re in the mood for creamy pasta, this Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka brings the taste of Italy to your kitchen faster than a takeaway could arrive. It is great for when you want something rich and quick. The addition of a splash of vodka will impress any pasta lover.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

This refreshing Cucumber Salad with Feta is a cinch to prepare. It is a quick side dish or a healthy snack that won’t keep you chopping and dicing for long. Crisp cucumbers and tangy feta cheese are all it takes to create this dish. It’s perfect for picnics or as a light meal on lazy days.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Diner Style Salisbury Steak

A plate of Salisbury steak with gravy on mashed potatoes, and a side of peas on a white square dish.
Diner Style Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Craving comfort food fast? Diner Style Salisbury Steak is your go-to for a home-cooked meal. It brings cozy vibes without having to spend your whole evening cooking. Juicy steak patties smothered in gravy make for a comforting dish. It’s reminiscent of your favorite diner but can be enjoyed at home.
Get the Recipe: Diner Style Salisbury Steak

Copycat Alice Springs Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Springs Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Get a taste of Outback with less fuss by whipping up this Copycat Alice Springs Chicken. Slashing the time it takes to enjoy a juicy, cheesy chicken meal at home, it serves up a treat with every bite. It’s a deliciously quick way to spoil yourself with a flavorful meal when you’re having a bad day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Springs Chicken

Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries

A plate of cottage cheese toast with blueberries, next to a honey dipper.
Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

This is as straightforward as it gets. Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries blends health and convenience in a snack that’s ready before your coffee’s even done brewing. It’s a perfect go-to for a busy morning or when you need a quick, nutritious bite. Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor to your mornings!
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Toast with Blueberries

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 Heather.

Turn your kitchen into Maggiano’s with this simple Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers that’s uncomplicated and unfussy. It serves up family-style dining to your table in no time. Enjoy bold Italian flavors in a dish that’s both comforting and simple to prepare even for beginners.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Rustle up Turkey à la King using leftovers. It’s a smart way to whip up a new meal with minimal effort, ensuring that nothing goes to waste while your palate is treated right. Hearty and creamy, this dish turns your Thanksgiving extras into a warming entrée. It’s like getting two meals from one preparation!
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

A tray of loaded tater tots topped with Alfredo sauce, scallions, and green onions on a wooden table next to plates and utensils.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Whether it’s game day or movie night, these Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots deliver a big flavor without big effort. It hits all the right notes for a fun and easy snack. Crispy tots are topped with your favorite ingredients for a crowd-pleasing dish. It’s a winning combination that will wow everyone.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding a cut steak quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Turn last night’s steak into today’s mouth-watering quesadilla. Leftover Steak Quesadilla is a clever hack for a scrumptious and simple meal without any fuss—just cheesy, meaty goodness in minutes. Delicious and efficient, this makes the most of your leftovers and creates a new meal that will hit the sweet spot.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Searching for something that’s a breeze to make? Chinese Chicken Salad is complete with crunchy veggies and tangy dressings. It’s an amazing quick-fix meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or freshness. It’s a light yet satisfying option for anyone looking for a speedy, healthy dish.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Have you ever heard of Beefy John Wayne Casserole? It is a one-dish wonder that’s hearty and straightforward, making for a satisfying family dinner that brings comfort food to the table fast, without all-day prep. It’s a baked treasure loaded with beef, cheese, and crust. What’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Leave a Comment