18 Fast Recipes That Use the Fewest Ingredients Possible

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BBQ Pork Tenderloin

BBQ Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This BBQ Pork Tenderloin is a deliciously easy dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss. Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, it features a mouthwatering balance of sweet and smoky notes that soak into the meat as it cooks. Whether you choose to grill it for a bit of charred perfection or roast it in the oven for a more hands-off approach, the result is always incredibly juicy and tender. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Perfect for casual cookouts or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Pork Tenderloin

Pea Salad

Pea Salad. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This easy pea salad is a quick and delicious side dish that brings together simple ingredients for maximum flavor. Sweet green peas are paired with crispy, salty bacon and plenty of shredded cheese, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together. With no cooking required, it’s the perfect make-ahead option for picnics, potlucks, or last-minute gatherings. Best of all, it comes together in just 10 minutes using only six ingredients, making it as effortless as it is tasty.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad

Chile Con Queso Dip

Chile Con Queso Dip. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This homemade chile con queso dip is rich, creamy, and packed with real cheese—no processed blocks in sight. It’s made entirely from scratch, delivering that irresistible gooey texture and bold, savory flavor with just the right kick of spice to keep things interesting. Perfect for dipping chips, drizzling over nachos, or spooning straight from the bowl, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels both nostalgic and elevated. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a comforting snack, this queso hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Chile Con Queso Dip

Muffuletta Roll Ups

Muffuletta Roll Ups. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

These muffuletta roll-ups are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic New Orleans sandwich. Each bite is packed with bold layers of cured meats, melty cheese, and a zesty olive salad that brings a tangy, briny punch. They’re the perfect bite-sized appetizer, capturing all the savory goodness of a muffuletta without the need for a full loaf of bread. Whether you're hosting a party or craving something different for lunch, these roll-ups hit the spot with just the right amount of Cajun flair.
Get the Recipe: Muffuletta Roll Ups

Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Someone pulling a mozzarella stick apart and showing the stretchy cheese.
Air Fryer Tortilla Chips. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These crispy, golden Air Fryer Tortilla Chips are a total game-changer when it comes to snacking. Packed with flavor and perfectly crunchy, they offer all the satisfaction of traditional chips without the extra oil and mess of deep frying. They're a healthier alternative that doesn't skimp on taste, making them ideal for everything from casual movie nights to party appetizers. Quick and easy to whip up, they’re ready in minutes and guaranteed to disappear just as fast. Whether you're dipping them in salsa, guacamole, or enjoying them solo, these chips are downright irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortilla Chips

Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Bucatini cacio e pepe in a bowl with a gold fork and a pepper mill off to the side.
Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bucatini Cacio e Pepe is a timeless Italian dish that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly special. Made with just five simple components, it combines the rich, salty flavor of sheep’s milk Pecorino Romano cheese with the natural starch from pasta water to form a lusciously creamy sauce. The bucatini noodles, with their hollow centers, soak up every bit of this cheesy, peppery goodness. It's a humble yet indulgent meal that feels gourmet without the fuss or expense. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you want comfort food with a touch of elegance.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Steak bites drenched in garlic butter sauce, alongside some asparagus.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: Gypsyplate.

Take your beef dishes to the next level with these mouthwatering pan-seared garlic butter steak bites. Each tender, juicy piece of steak is seared until perfectly browned, then tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that adds incredible depth and flavor. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but comes together surprisingly fast, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy steak without the need for a grill.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle

Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle on a white plate.
Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

These Blackstone zucchini are a quick and easy way to serve up a healthy side dish that’s full of flavor. Cooking zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle gives it the perfect tender-crisp texture with just the right amount of char. It’s a simple method that brings out the natural sweetness of the zucchini without overpowering it. This low-carb veggie side fits seamlessly into keto, paleo, or clean-eating meal plans. Whether you're grilling for a crowd or making a weeknight dinner, this zucchini recipe is a fresh, wholesome choice.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini on the Blackstone Griddle

Beef Fried Rice

Beef fried rice in skillet with wooden spoon.
Beef Fried Rice. Photo credit: Chef Savvy.

Bring the flavors of your favorite takeout spot right to your kitchen with this hearty and satisfying beef fried rice. Made with tender strips of flank steak, fluffy white rice, crisp carrots, broccoli, and perfectly scrambled eggs, each bite is packed with savory goodness. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights when you want something quick but still full of flavor. It’s the kind of comforting, homemade meal that feels a little indulgent yet totally doable. Once you try it, you might just skip the takeout menu for good.
Get the Recipe: Beef Fried Rice

Spam and Eggs

Spam and Eggs. Photo credit: Vintage Recipes.

Classic Spam and Eggs is a hearty, comforting breakfast that’s both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying. This dish brings together crispy, golden-brown slices of Spam with perfectly cooked eggs and a gooey layer of melted cheese for a simple yet flavorful start to the day. It’s a no-fuss, budget-friendly meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Whether you're revisiting a childhood favorite or trying it for the first time, this easy recipe is sure to become a go-to breakfast staple.
Get the Recipe: Spam and Eggs

Chorizo Tacos

Close up of Chorizo Tacos.
Chorizo Tacos. Photo credit: Spend With Pennies.

These Chorizo Tacos are a bold and flavorful meal made with just four simple ingredients—spicy Mexican chorizo, tender potatoes, and savory onions all sautéed together to perfection, then tucked into warm corn tortillas. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss. Set up a taco bar with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or sour cream for a fun, customizable dinner experience. Best of all, the chorizo mixture freezes beautifully, so you can make extra and enjoy it later in scrambled eggs, breakfast casseroles, soups, or even omelets. It’s a delicious way to keep meals exciting and easy throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Chorizo Tacos

Best No-Knead Olive Bread

Freshly baked No-Knead Olive Bread with a golden, crispy crust and chunks of kalamata and green olives visible throughout.
Best No-Knead Olive Bread. Photo credit: Unicorns In The Kitchen.

This no-knead olive bread recipe is a game-changer for anyone who wants fresh, homemade bread without the fuss. With just a few simple steps and no kneading required, it yields a beautiful, golden crust and a soft, flavorful interior studded with briny olives. It’s perfect for beginners or busy home bakers who still want that artisan-style loaf without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether served alongside dinner or enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil, this bread never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Best No-Knead Olive Bread

Easy 5 Ingredient Chicken Taquitos

Easy 5 Ingredient Chicken Taquitos. Photo credit: Practically Homemade.

This easy chicken taquito recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when time and energy are in short supply. With just a few simple steps, you can have a warm, crispy, and satisfying meal on the table that the whole family will love. It's thoughtfully designed to suit the needs of hectic schedules, so you don't have to sacrifice flavor for convenience. Whether you're juggling work, school, or after-dinner activities, this dish offers a stress-free solution that always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Easy 5 Ingredient Chicken Taquitos

Mayonnaise Chicken Recipe

Mayonnaise Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

This Mayonnaise Chicken recipe is the kind of effortless dinner that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss. Made with everyday ingredients like creamy mayonnaise and crispy panko bread crumbs, it creates a golden, crunchy coating that locks in moisture and adds a satisfying texture. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a rich, savory flavor that feels comforting and indulgent. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just need a no-stress meal, this dish comes together quickly without sacrificing taste. It's a simple yet delicious way to please the whole table.
Get the Recipe: Mayonnaise Chicken Recipe

Electric Skillet Biscuits

Electric skillet biscuits in a wooden tray.
Electric Skillet Biscuits. Photo credit: In The Kitch.

If baking feels like too much mess or hassle, this simple recipe offers a stress-free alternative you'll love. It leans more toward a clever kitchen shortcut than a full-on baking project, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you're just not in the mood to deal with the oven. These electric skillet biscuits come together with almost no effort, yet they deliver that warm, comforting vibe we all crave at dinnertime. They’re so easy and satisfying, you might find yourself making them on repeat. After all, who wouldn’t want a little extra cozy goodness alongside their meal with almost no cleanup?
Get the Recipe: Electric Skillet Biscuits

Blackened Pork Chops

Breakfast lasagna being served at table.
Blackened Pork Chops. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

These Blackened Pork Chops are a deliciously bold and satisfying main dish, featuring a perfectly crisp, flavorful crust with a tender and juicy center. With just a few minutes of prep—15 or less—you can have a hearty dinner on the table in no time. Whether you sear them in a cast iron skillet or fire up the grill, the smoky seasoning and caramelized edges make every bite irresistible. Pair them with a quick garden salad for a balanced meal that feels both effortless and impressive. It’s the kind of easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to win over the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Pork Chops

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings

Three air-fried, sesame-crusted chicken thighs with broccoli on a white plate.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings are a deliciously simple way to satisfy your wing cravings without the mess of deep frying. These wings come out perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy on the inside, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. They're tossed in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce that clings to every bite, giving you that bold flavor you love. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and a couple of easy sides to turn them into a complete meal. Whether you're planning a game day spread or need a quick dinner after a long day, these wings are ready in minutes and always hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings

Smashburger

A display of Smashburger.
Smashburger. Photo credit: Love From The Oven.

This mouthwatering Smash Burger recipe is the kind of meal that makes summer cookouts extra memorable. It starts with seasoned ground beef, smashed onto a hot cast iron skillet to create that irresistible crispy edge and juicy center. Nestled between pillowy soft buns and loaded with your favorite toppings, every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a quick, satisfying dinner, this burger delivers big on both taste and simplicity. It's a go-to recipe that's bound to impress family and friends alike.
Get the Recipe: Smashburger

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