16 Quick Meals That Still Look Like You Tried

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Instant Pot Potato Soup

This rich and creamy Instant Pot potato soup is the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for those evenings when you need something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with tender potatoes and a velvety broth, it’s a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. The best part? It comes together quickly in the Instant Pot, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you still want a homemade touch. Finish it off with a generous sprinkle of crispy bacon for a savory, satisfying bite every time.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Potato Soup

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and loaded with cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or whenever a craving hits. With the magic of the Instant Pot, it comes together incredibly fast—no need for draining or multiple pots. From pantry staples to piping hot on your plate in under 20 minutes, it's a stress-free, satisfying meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Beer Battered Cod

This beer batter cod delivers an irresistibly crispy exterior that gives way to tender, flaky fish with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make at home, coming together quickly with just a few simple ingredients. The beer in the batter adds a light, airy crunch and a subtle depth of flavor that elevates the whole experience. One taste and you might just find yourself skipping the local fish fry in favor of this homemade favorite. Whether served with fries, coleslaw, or a squeeze of lemon, it's comfort food at its best.
Get the Recipe: Beer Battered Cod

Instant Pot Beef Stew

This beef stew is the ultimate comfort dish, packed with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of tender beef and hearty vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Everything simmers together in a rich, savory broth that’s full of depth and flavor—like something grandma used to make, but easier. It’s warm, satisfying, and the kind of meal that makes you want to curl up with a bowl on a cozy evening. Best of all, it comes together surprisingly quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something homemade and nourishing. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just craving something wholesome, this stew hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef Stew

Asian Ground Chicken Rice Bowls

If you're looking for a fast, flavorful meal that doesn't sacrifice taste for convenience, these Asian Ground Chicken Rice Bowls are the perfect solution. Ready in just 30 minutes, they're a lifesaver on hectic weeknights and also make a great option for weekly meal prep. What makes them even better is their versatility—you can easily tweak the ingredients to match your cravings, dietary restrictions, or fitness goals. Whether you're cutting back on carbs, aiming to pack in more protein, or just want to mix in your favorite veggies, these bowls are incredibly easy to customize. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that can work for just about anyone.
Get the Recipe: Asian Ground Chicken Rice Bowls

Grilled Shrimp Salad with Mango Lime Dressing

Savor the bright, refreshing tastes of summer with this grilled shrimp salad, a dish that feels as light and breezy as a warm sunny day. Juicy, smoky shrimp are paired with crisp greens and topped with a homemade mango lime vinaigrette that’s bursting with tropical sweetness and zesty citrus notes. It’s a perfect meal when you want something quick yet flavorful—ready in under 30 minutes without sacrificing freshness or flair. Whether you're enjoying a laid-back lunch or an easy dinner on the patio, this salad delivers the kind of vibrant, feel-good flavor that makes summer dining unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Salad with Mango Lime Dressing

Easy Cajun Shrimp and Salmon in Red Pepper Cream Sauce

Take your weeknight dinners to the next level with this Easy Cajun Salmon and Shrimp recipe, a dish that's bursting with bold, zesty flavor. Tender salmon and juicy shrimp are seared to perfection and coated in a smoky Cajun seasoning that brings just the right amount of heat. Everything comes together in one pan with a rich, velvety pepper cream sauce that ties the flavors together beautifully. It’s quick enough for a busy evening but impressive enough to serve to guests. This hearty, satisfying meal is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cajun Shrimp and Salmon in Red Pepper Cream Sauce

Seared Scallops in Lemon Butter

Seared Scallops in Lemon Butter is a beautifully simple dish that feels like something you'd order at a fancy restaurant—but it's easy enough to make at home in just 20 minutes. The scallops are cooked until golden and tender, with a slight crisp on the outside that gives way to a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth center. A bright lemon butter sauce brings the dish to life, balancing richness with a refreshing tang that doesn't overpower. Using only a handful of fresh ingredients, this low-carb recipe is both impressive and approachable, perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining. It’s a light yet indulgent meal that turns an ordinary evening into something special.
Get the Recipe: Seared Scallops in Lemon Butter

BBQ Chicken Sandwich

A mouthwatering BBQ chicken sandwich starts with a bold mix of rich, savory flavors that come together effortlessly. Just toss all the ingredients into your pressure cooker for a quick, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for busy days or lazy nights. As the pressure builds, so does the aroma, and before you know it, you’ll have juicy, tender chicken that practically falls apart. Pile it high on your favorite buns, and you’ve got a sandwich that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that feels like it took all day—but only took minutes.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sandwich

5-Ingredient Chicken Stuffed Peppers

These Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a quick and easy dinner solution that comes together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something fast but still crave a hearty, home-cooked meal. With only five simple ingredients, they prove that great flavor doesn’t have to come with a long prep time or a mile-long shopping list. Each bite is packed with savory, satisfying goodness that even picky eaters will enjoy. Whether you're feeding a family or just yourself, this wholesome dish is sure to hit the spot without adding stress to your evening routine.
Get the Recipe: 5-Ingredient Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Thinly sliced shaved beef is the ultimate shortcut for getting a delicious dinner on the table fast. It cooks up in just minutes, making it perfect for a quick stir-fry on busy weeknights when time is short but you still want something satisfying. Paired with a crave-worthy sauce that’s rich, savory, and just the right amount of sticky, this dish easily rivals anything you’d order from your favorite takeout spot. The best part? It’s made with simple ingredients, comes together effortlessly, and will quickly become a go-to in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki

This savory and sweet chicken teriyaki dish is the perfect answer to busy weeknights when you’re craving something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Cooked on a Blackstone griddle, the chicken develops a beautifully caramelized exterior that locks in flavor and gives it an irresistible texture. The teriyaki glaze strikes a delicious balance between salty, sweet, and umami, making each bite more addictive than the last. Best of all, it comes together quickly, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki

Kung Pao Beef

Discover how to make a quick and easy kung pao beef that’s bursting with bold, savory flavors and just the right touch of heat. This dish comes together in only 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights when you still want something homemade and satisfying. With its tender beef, crunchy peanuts, and vibrant sauce, it hits all the right notes of sweet, spicy, and umami. Even if you're short on time, you can still enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal at home without the hassle. Let this quick kung pao beef recipe be your go-to for something deliciously effortless.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Beef

Oven Roasted Turkey Tenderloin

If you're looking to switch things up from your regular dinner routine, this simple yet flavorful Oven Roasted Turkey Tenderloin recipe is just what you need. It's a quick way to get a lean, protein-rich dish on the table without sacrificing taste or texture. Each tenderloin is seasoned with a savory blend of spices and roasted until perfectly juicy, making it a crowd-pleaser for both weeknight dinners and weekend meals. Its versatility also makes it a go-to for busy schedules—whether you're feeding the family or prepping ahead for the week, this dish delivers convenience without compromising flavor. With minimal effort and maximum reward, it's the kind of recipe you'll find yourself coming back to again and again.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Turkey Tenderloin

Creamy Gnocchi Pesto

Creamy Gnocchi Pesto is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Fluffy, tender potato gnocchi are smothered in a rich and vibrant ricotta pesto that's bursting with fresh herbs and savory flavor. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and brightness, delivering big taste without the hassle. The best part? This cozy, satisfying meal comes together in just 10 minutes, making it a quick go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something indulgent in a flash.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Gnocchi Pesto

15 Minute Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap

The 15-Minute Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap—also known as the Crack Wrap—is the kind of quick and satisfying meal you’ll want to make on repeat. It’s loaded with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a generous drizzle of creamy ranch, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. This wrap strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and convenience, making it ideal for busy weeknights, lunches, or even a no-fuss dinner. Best of all, it comes together in just 15 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious, flavor-packed bite without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: 15 Minute Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap