15 Dinners That Use What's On Hand

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Shrimp Fried Rice

This healthier take on a classic takeout favorite brings together tender, juicy shrimp and perfectly cooked, flavorful rice in every bite. It’s packed with flavor without weighing you down, making it a satisfying meal you can feel good about. Even better, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner on busy nights without all the fuss. Simple ingredients and quick cooking make this dish a go-to for weeknight meals, and it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

Chicken Noodle Casserole

This creamy chicken noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food, with juicy, tender chicken and perfectly cooked egg noodles all baked together in a rich, flavorful sauce. The best part? A golden, crunchy topping of Ritz crackers adds the perfect touch of texture and indulgence. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy and homemade, perfect for family dinners or when you just want something warm and satisfying. Even better, it comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time, making it an easy weeknight favorite that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Casserole

Pizza Grilled Cheese

Get all the delicious flavors of your favorite pizza in one super easy grilled cheese sandwich! Loaded with spicy pepperoni and ooey-gooey melted cheese, every bite is packed with flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s the perfect comfort food for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack when you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying. Quick to make but full of flavor, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults alike. You might even find yourself making it again and again!
Get the Recipe: Pizza Grilled Cheese

Leek & Squash Quiche

This Leek & Squash Quiche is a comforting, savory delight that combines the sweet warmth of roasted butternut squash with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese. Fresh leeks add a subtle oniony flavor, while a hint of earthy rosemary ties everything together beautifully. Perfectly golden and shareable, it makes an inviting centerpiece for breakfast, a relaxed brunch with friends, or even a cozy lunch or dinner at home. Every bite is a mix of rich textures and flavors that feel both elegant and comforting at the same time. It’s one of those dishes that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Leek & Squash Quiche

Baked Ricotta Mac and Cheese

This baked ricotta mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, yet surprisingly easy to make. Each bite is full of tender, perfectly cooked macaroni wrapped in velvety ricotta cheese, with a golden, gooey layer of melted cheddar on top that adds just the right amount of indulgence. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or for impressing guests at family gatherings. The combination of creamy cheese and a slightly crispy top makes it irresistible, and it’s guaranteed to disappear fast whenever it hits the table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving a cheesy treat, this mac and cheese delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ricotta Mac and Cheese

Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin

This holiday season, take the stress out of mealtime with this easy Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin recipe. Coated in a savory spice rub, it’s bursting with flavor and ready to serve in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy hosts or last-minute dinners. Air fryers aren’t just for quick weeknight meals—they can help you create a festive, impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen. With this recipe, you get all the taste of a traditional holiday turkey in a fraction of the time. It’s a simple, delicious way to make your holiday meal feel special while keeping things easy and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin

Cranberry Chicken

Cranberry Chicken is a fantastic way to bring a little excitement and flavor to your dinner table. The dish is coated in a sweet and savory cranberry glaze that’s both tangy and comforting, making every bite a real treat. What’s even better is that it comes together in under 30 minutes with just four simple ingredients, so you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to impress. It’s a meal that feels special enough for guests yet simple enough for a busy weeknight, leaving everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this Cranberry Chicken is sure to become a new favorite in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Chicken

Sausage Stir Fry

This sausage stir fry is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or prepping ahead for the week. In just 20 minutes, you can toss together sausage and a colorful mix of vegetables for a dish that’s both hearty and versatile. The great thing about it is how easily you can customize it—swap in your favorite veggies, adjust the seasoning, or add a sauce to suit everyone’s tastes. It’s a go-to option when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen, making mealtime simple, delicious, and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stir Fry

Brisket Hash

This easy skillet brisket hash is a comforting, all-in-one meal that turns leftover brisket into something truly special. Loaded with tender beans, sweet potatoes, and colorful peppers, it’s packed with flavor and texture in every bite. Topped with a perfectly fried egg, it makes for a hearty breakfast or a simple, satisfying dinner. Quick to whip up and full of warmth, this dish is perfect for using up leftovers while still feeling like a treat. It’s the kind of meal that’s both cozy and effortlessly delicious, sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Hash

Chicken Pad Thai

If you’re a fan of pad Thai, you’re in for a real treat. This chicken pad Thai is packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked Thai rice noodles, and fresh, crisp vegetables, all tossed in a sauce that hits the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and just the right amount of spice. Even with all those bold flavors, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. Better than takeout and endlessly satisfying, it’s a dish that always earns compliments at the dinner table. Bring a taste of Thailand into your kitchen tonight—this vibrant, flavorful meal is sure to become a new favorite in your weeknight rotation!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pad Thai

Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables

You’re going to love this easy Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables recipe—it’s the kind of meal that makes dinner feel effortless. With everything cooking together on one pan, cleanup is a breeze, which is perfect for those busy or lazy evenings. The combination of tender chicken and flavorful vegetables makes it both satisfying and wholesome, without requiring a ton of time or effort. It’s a simple, comforting dinner that feels homemade and delicious, even on your busiest nights.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables

Cooked Salmon Poke Bowl With Easy Sauce

This cooked salmon poke bowl takes the classic poke concept and gives it a delicious, approachable twist. Tender pan-seared salmon is coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, giving every bite a perfect balance of flavor. Fresh, crisp vegetables and creamy avocado add texture and richness, making each mouthful satisfying and vibrant. It’s a colorful, nourishing meal that works beautifully for a quick lunch or a light, wholesome dinner. With its mix of flavors and textures, it’s simple enough for a weeknight yet special enough to enjoy anytime.
Get the Recipe: Cooked Salmon Poke Bowl With Easy Sauce

BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers

These BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers are an absolute treat for anyone who loves a good burger. Crispy on the edges, juicy in the center, and packed with smoky bacon flavor, each bite is pure satisfaction. They’re not only delicious but also a fun cooking experience, letting you enjoy the sizzle and aroma as you smash them to perfection. Perfect for casual family dinners or lively weekend BBQs with friends, these burgers are guaranteed to bring big smiles and happy appetites to the table. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a go-to for any burger night.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Bacon Blackstone Smash Burgers

Pressure Cooker Lemon Butter Shrimp & Orzo Dinner

This dish is a perfect example of how you can get a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time. Tender shrimp are cooked in a rich lemon butter sauce that pairs beautifully with perfectly tender orzo, making every bite bright and satisfying. Prepared entirely in a pressure cooker, it’s a super convenient option for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without the fuss. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s a meal that feels special but comes together effortlessly. Ideal for both family dinners and last-minute guests, it’s proof that fast doesn’t have to mean boring.
Get the Recipe: Pressure Cooker Lemon Butter Shrimp & Orzo Dinner

Air Fryer Pork Chops

These air fryer pork chops are a game-changer for busy weeknights, giving you a simple yet incredibly delicious dinner in no time. The outside comes out perfectly golden and slightly crispy, while the inside stays tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Seasoned with your favorite spices, every bite is satisfying and comforting. Best of all, they cook in just 9 minutes, making them an easy option for a quick weeknight meal. Your whole family is sure to enjoy them so much, they’ll be asking for these again and again.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Chops