Not everyone enjoys spending time in the kitchen, but that doesn’t mean you have to rely on takeout or frozen meals. There are plenty of simple, low-effort recipes that require minimal prep and taste delicious. Whether you’re short on time, dislike cooking, or just want hassle-free meals, these easy recipes are perfect for you. Here are 12 foolproof recipes for people who hate cooking.
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1. One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies
Toss chicken breasts, baby potatoes, and green beans on a sheet pan, drizzle with melted butter and garlic, and bake at 400°F for 25 minutes. Everything cooks together, making clean-up easy and the flavors delicious. Adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or lemon juice at the end enhances the taste. This meal requires little prep and can be adjusted with whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s a great way to make a balanced meal with minimal effort.
2. 5-Minute Avocado Toast
Mash a ripe avocado onto a slice of toasted bread, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. You can top it with a fried egg, cherry tomatoes, or smoked salmon for extra flavor and protein. Drizzling some olive oil or hot sauce can elevate the taste without much effort. This simple dish is packed with healthy fats and nutrients, making it a perfect breakfast or snack. With only a few ingredients, it’s an easy and satisfying option.
3. No-Boil Baked Pasta
Mix uncooked pasta, a jar of marinara sauce, a cup of water, and shredded cheese in a baking dish. Cover and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes, allowing the pasta to cook in the sauce without any pre-boiling. Adding cooked sausage, ground beef, or frozen spinach can make it heartier. Once baked, top with extra cheese and let it melt for a gooey finish. This hands-off meal is perfect for people who want a home-cooked dish without extra steps.
4. Microwave Scrambled Eggs
Crack two eggs into a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of milk, and whisk together. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then microwave for another 30 seconds until fully cooked. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. This quick recipe is great for busy mornings or when you need a protein-packed snack. It’s one of the easiest ways to cook eggs without dirtying a pan.
5. Lazy Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Butter two slices of bread, place a slice of cheese between them, and cook in a skillet over medium heat. Flip once golden brown, cooking each side for about 2 minutes, until the cheese is melted. For an easier version, use a toaster oven or sandwich press. Adding tomato slices or ham makes it even more filling. This classic comfort food is a hassle-free way to enjoy a warm meal.
6. Instant Ramen with Upgrades
Cook instant ramen noodles according to package directions, but skip the seasoning packet. Instead, add soy sauce, garlic powder, and a soft-boiled egg for a homemade flavor boost. Tossing in frozen vegetables or shredded rotisserie chicken makes it more nutritious. Stir in peanut butter for a creamy, Thai-inspired twist. With just a few additions, instant ramen can become a flavorful and filling dish.
7. Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker, pour barbecue sauce over them, and cook on low for six hours. Once done, shred the chicken with a fork and serve on buns for an easy pulled chicken sandwich. This recipe requires almost no prep and works great for meal prepping. You can also use the shredded chicken for tacos, salads, or rice bowls. It’s a simple and versatile way to cook chicken with minimal effort.
8. Tuna Salad Wraps
Mix canned tuna with mayonnaise, mustard, and diced celery, then scoop onto a tortilla. Roll it up with lettuce or sliced cucumbers for a refreshing, protein-packed meal. Adding a dash of hot sauce or lemon juice enhances the flavor. This wrap is quick to assemble and doesn’t require any cooking. It’s a perfect meal for those who want something light and easy.
9. One-Pot Chili
Brown ground beef in a pot, then add canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili seasoning. Let everything simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Stirring in some shredded cheese or sour cream at the end adds a creamy texture. This one-pot meal is filling, hearty, and requires little clean-up. It’s a great option for cold nights when you want something warm without too much work.
10. Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs
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Place salmon fillets on a foil-lined baking sheet, season with salt, pepper, and lemon slices, then bake at 400°F for 15 minutes. Drizzling olive oil or butter on top before baking keeps the fish moist. Adding herbs like dill or parsley enhances the freshness. This dish pairs well with instant rice or frozen veggies for a complete meal. It’s a foolproof way to prepare salmon without overcooking it.
11. Dump-and-Bake Chicken Casserole
Mix uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken breasts, and seasoning in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 40 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. This hands-off recipe requires no stirring or extra pots. Topping with shredded cheese before baking adds extra flavor. It’s an easy comfort meal that practically cooks itself.
12. Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie
Blend one banana, a scoop of peanut butter, a cup of milk, and some ice for a creamy, protein-rich smoothie. Adding cinnamon or cocoa powder enhances the flavor without extra sugar. This smoothie works as a quick breakfast or post-workout snack. It’s filling, delicious, and takes less than five minutes to make. With just a few ingredients, it’s one of the easiest homemade drinks.
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With these simple, delicious recipes for people who hate to cook, you can enjoy home-cooked meals without stress. Whether you prefer one-pan dishes, slow cooker meals, or quick microwave hacks, these ideas will help you eat well with minimal effort.
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