15 Quick and Easy 5-Ingredient Dinner Recipes
Fast 5 ingredient dinners are perfect for anyone looking to whip up a meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can throw together delicious and satisfying dishes that fit into even the busiest of schedules. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to quick, tasty meals that make weeknight cooking a breeze!
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender beef and vibrant broccoli. This meal is not just easy to make; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of savory beef and crisp broccoli makes it a favorite for busy weeknights.
In the image, you can see a bowl filled with perfectly cooked beef strips and bright green broccoli, all coated in a rich sauce. The steam rising from the bowl hints at the warmth and freshness of the dish. It’s a delightful sight that makes your mouth water!
This stir-fry is a great option when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just five ingredients, you can whip it up in no time. Let’s get into the details!
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus dish is a quick and delightful meal. The shrimp are perfectly cooked, glistening with a hint of lemon and garlic. The vibrant green asparagus adds a fresh crunch, making it a colorful and appetizing plate. It’s a fantastic option for a busy weeknight dinner.
With just five ingredients, this recipe is simple yet satisfying. The combination of shrimp and asparagus is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Plus, the lemon and garlic elevate the flavors, making each bite enjoyable.
Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
- Add the asparagus and lemon juice, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the asparagus is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
Chickpea Curry
Chickpea curry is a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying dinner. This dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it a favorite for many. The image shows a warm bowl of chickpea curry served over fluffy rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. It’s colorful and inviting, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Making chickpea curry is simple and requires just a few ingredients. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings. The creamy texture and rich spices will surely please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chickpeas and curry powder, stirring for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon
This Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon is a quick and tasty dinner option that packs a punch of flavor. The salmon is beautifully glazed with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, making it a delightful dish for any night of the week. On the side, fresh green beans add a pop of color and a healthy crunch.
Preparing this meal is a breeze. You’ll be amazed at how just five ingredients can come together to create something so delicious. The salmon is not only satisfying but also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice.
Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh green beans (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey mustard mixture generously over the salmon.
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the salmon is baking, steam or sauté the green beans until tender.
- Serve the salmon hot, drizzled with any remaining glaze, alongside the green beans. Enjoy your meal!
One-Pan Chicken Fajitas
One-pan chicken fajitas are a quick and colorful meal that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This dish features tender chicken pieces cooked with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all seasoned with zesty spices. The best part? You can whip it up in no time!
The image showcases a sizzling pan filled with juicy chicken and a rainbow of peppers. The bright colors make it visually appealing and hint at the delicious flavors waiting to be enjoyed. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
To make this dish, you’ll need just five simple ingredients. It’s a great way to use up any veggies you have on hand, and you can serve it with tortillas or over rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 bell peppers (any colors), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced peppers and onion, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender.
- Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the mixture and stir well to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices to blend in.
Serve your chicken fajitas with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice. Enjoy this quick and tasty meal!
Caprese Pasta Salad
Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with the heartiness of pasta. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner or a light lunch. The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil make it visually appealing and appetizing.
The ingredients are simple and fresh, making it easy to whip up in no time. You can enjoy it warm or cold, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins or can stand alone as a vegetarian option.
Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later. This salad tastes even better after the flavors meld together!
Vegetable Quesadillas
Vegetable quesadillas are a quick and tasty dinner option. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. The golden, crispy tortillas are filled with a mix of colorful veggies, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing.
In the image, you can see perfectly cooked quesadillas served with a side of creamy guacamole and zesty salsa. The vibrant colors of the food pop against the decorative plate, making it a feast for the eyes as well. Each bite offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
Making vegetable quesadillas is simple and can be customized based on what you have on hand. You can use any combination of vegetables, cheese, and spices to suit your taste. They are great for using up leftover veggies from the fridge, making them a practical choice too!
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
- Add a portion of the sautéed vegetables on top of the cheese, then sprinkle the remaining cheese over the vegetables.
- Fold the tortilla in half and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Cut into wedges and serve with guacamole and salsa.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Spinach and feta stuffed chicken is a quick and tasty dinner option. This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh spinach and creamy feta cheese. The colors are vibrant, making it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. On the side, roasted potatoes add a comforting touch, perfectly complementing the main dish.
This recipe is simple and requires just five ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken is stuffed with a mixture of sautéed spinach and feta, then baked until golden brown. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while enjoying a hearty meal.
Ready to whip up this delicious dinner? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with crumbled feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and stuff with the spinach and feta mixture.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in the skillet and sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot with roasted potatoes or your favorite side dish.
Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
These shrimp tacos are a quick and tasty dinner option. With just five ingredients, they come together in no time. The shrimp are perfectly cooked and paired with a crunchy cabbage slaw that adds freshness and flavor. The lime wedges on the side are perfect for squeezing over the tacos, giving them a zesty kick.
The tacos are served in soft corn tortillas, making them easy to hold and eat. The vibrant colors of the slaw and shrimp make these tacos not only delicious but also visually appealing. They are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 4 corn tortillas
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- Make the Slaw: In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, red onion, and lime juice. Toss well to mix.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until warm.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with the cabbage slaw, and add extra lime juice if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy your shrimp tacos with lime wedges on the side!
Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
Tomato basil soup is a classic comfort food that warms the soul. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Paired with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich, it creates a perfect meal for any time of the day. The vibrant colors in the soup, with hints of fresh basil, make it visually appealing and inviting.
This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dinner in no time. The combination of ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy texture makes each spoonful delightful. The grilled cheese adds a crunchy contrast that complements the smooth soup.
Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy yet comforting.
Ingredients
- 4 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of bread
- 4 slices of cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- In a pot, combine the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the fresh basil leaves and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through. Blend the soup for a smooth texture if desired.
- While the soup is cooking, butter the bread and place cheese between two slices. Grill in a pan until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve the hot soup in bowls with the grilled cheese on the side. Enjoy!
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls are a quick and tasty dinner option. The image shows a vibrant bowl filled with tender chicken pieces coated in a shiny teriyaki sauce. The chicken sits atop a fluffy bed of white rice, garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds. This dish is not only appealing to the eyes but also to the taste buds!
This meal is perfect for busy weeknights. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dinner in no time. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or sides.
Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make your own Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add the chicken thighs. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes.
- Add the Sauce: Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return to the skillet and pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Stir to coat and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Prepare the Rice: While the chicken is cooking, prepare your white rice according to package instructions.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Top with the teriyaki chicken and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls are ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot and savor the delicious flavors.
Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach
Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach is a quick and tasty dish that brings comfort in every bite. The image shows a beautiful bowl of spaghetti, perfectly coated with a rich garlic butter sauce. Fresh spinach leaves add a pop of color and nutrition, making this meal not only delicious but also healthy.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dinner in no time. The garlic butter sauce is simple yet flavorful, and the spinach adds a lovely freshness. It’s a great way to enjoy pasta without spending hours in the kitchen.
Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti back into the pot. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach!
Pesto Zoodles with Cherry Tomatoes
Pesto zoodles are a fun twist on traditional pasta. Using zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta makes this dish light and fresh. The vibrant green pesto adds a burst of flavor, while the cherry tomatoes provide a juicy sweetness that complements the dish perfectly.
In the image, you can see a beautiful plate of zoodles topped with bright red cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of nuts for crunch. The fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and hint at the flavors in the pesto. This dish is not only visually appealing but also quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
With just five ingredients, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time. It’s healthy, satisfying, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a quick dinner without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or your favorite nuts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Spiralize the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to create zoodles from the zucchinis. Set aside.
- Heat the Pesto: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the basil pesto and let it warm up for a minute.
- Add the Zoodles: Toss the spiralized zucchini into the skillet with the pesto. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until just tender.
- Mix in Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and stir gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the zoodles and top with pine nuts. Enjoy your fresh and tasty meal!
Egg Fried Rice
Egg fried rice is a quick and tasty meal that anyone can whip up. It’s colorful, filling, and packed with flavor. The image shows a vibrant plate of fried rice topped with a perfectly cooked fried egg. The rice is mixed with bright red peppers, green peas, and bits of meat, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just five ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special and comforting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas and bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Scramble the eggs in the skillet until fully cooked, then set aside.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked rice and soy sauce, mixing everything well.
- Add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet and combine. Cook for another minute until heated through.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and tasty option for a quick dinner. They are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients. You can use a variety of fillings, making them versatile and fun to prepare.
The image shows vibrant bell peppers filled with a hearty mixture. The combination of grains, vegetables, and spices creates a satisfying meal. You can easily customize the filling based on what you have on hand, making this dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Let’s jump into how to make these delicious stuffed bell peppers!
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 cup diced vegetables (like zucchini, tomatoes, or corn)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked quinoa or rice, diced vegetables, black beans, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it down gently.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to slightly brown the tops.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.