13 Go-To Meals For People Who Hate Cooking

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13 Go-To Meals For People Who Hate Cooking

Ever feel like making dinner is the last thing you want to do after a long day? You’re not alone. This article is packed with ideas for those nights when even the thought of cooking feels like a chore. We’ve rounded up some easy, fast recipes that promise to get you from “What’s for dinner?” to “Let’s eat!” without the usual fuss.

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Burger Bowls. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Blackened Mahi Mahi

Blackened mahi mahi over white rice.
Blackened Mahi Mahi. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Blackened mahi mahi is a dream come true for anyone looking to whip up dinner without any fuss. Just sprinkle on some easy-to-make seasoning and let the broiler do its magic. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s bursting with flavor, proving that a delicious dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a straightforward and fast choice, ideal for those evenings when cooking is the last thing on your mind. Plus, the quick cleanup means more time to relax after eating.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Mahi Mahi

Bomb Meatloaf

Meatloaf on a white plate cut into slices with fresh parsley garnish.
Bomb Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

If the thought of making dinner usually has you dragging your feet, this meatloaf will change your mind. It’s simple to mix together, and the oven takes care of the rest, leaving you with a tender and juicy meal. The sweet and tangy glaze adds the perfect finish without any extra effort. This recipe is proof that you can have a hearty, homemade meal without needing to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that makes getting dinner on the table feel like no trouble at all.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Pesto Salmon

Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pesto salmon is a no-brainer for those nights when cooking feels like a chore. With only five ingredients and less than 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s a healthy and flavorful option that won’t keep you in the kitchen all night. The oven does all the work, baking the salmon to perfection with minimal effort on your part. It’s the perfect solution for a nutritious dinner that’s easy and quick to prepare, making it a favorite for anyone who’d rather do anything but cook.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon

Pretzel Crusted Pork Chops

Pretzel crusted pork chop on a plate with broccoli and sweet potato.
Pretzel Crusted Pork Chops. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Imagine a dinner that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. These pretzel crusted pork chops come with a simple maple dijon sauce and bake to perfection in the oven. It’s an effortless way to bring a delicious and protein-rich meal to the table without any hassle. Whether you’re not fond of cooking or just short on time, this recipe is a reliable choice that promises a tasty outcome with little to no stress.
Get the Recipe: Pretzel Crusted Pork Chops

Kale and Feta Egg Bake

Kale and feta egg bake in a white ramekin with a piece of toasted bread to the side.
Kale and Feta Egg Bake. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

For those who think making dinner is a drag, this kale and feta egg bake will change your tune. It’s as easy as tossing a few ingredients together and letting the oven do its thing. Perfect for a lazy dinner or when you’re pressed for time, this dish delivers on taste without the need for complex cooking steps. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss meal that will have you looking forward to dinner without dreading the preparation.
Get the Recipe: Kale and Feta Egg Bake

Sriracha Honey Salmon Vegetable Packets

Sriracha honey salmon vegetable packets cooked in foil.
Sriracha Honey Salmon Vegetable Packets. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sriracha honey salmon vegetable packets are the epitome of convenience and taste. Wrap everything in a foil packet and bake for a complete meal with minimal cleanup. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy a flavorful dinner, perfect for those who prefer spending less time cooking and more time eating. This dish is a testament to the fact that easy dinners can still be incredibly good, making it a win-win for anyone who’s not a fan of kitchen duty.
Get the Recipe: Sriracha Honey Salmon Vegetable Packets

Garlic Pizza Bread

Pepperoni garlic pizza bread on a cooling rack.
Garlic Pizza Bread. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Garlic pizza bread is the ultimate solution for an easy yet irresistible dinner. Combining the comfort of garlic bread with the all-time favorite pizza, this dish is ready in no time and costs far less than takeout. It’s a straightforward approach to a satisfying meal that doesn’t require any culinary skills, making it a top pick for a fuss-free dinner option. Perfect for a casual night in or when you’re craving something delicious without the effort of traditional cooking.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Pizza Bread

Burger Bowls

Burger bowl with bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado and special sauce.
Burger Bowls. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Burger bowls bring all the flavors of your favorite fast food burger without the complexity of cooking. With a homemade special sauce and all the classic toppings, this dish puts a healthier spin on a traditional burger, all while keeping things simple. It’s a fun and easy way to enjoy a dinner that doesn’t feel like a chore to make, ensuring you can have a tasty meal without the hassle of extensive cooking. Ideal for those seeking a straightforward yet enjoyable dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Burger Bowls

Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Lemon pasta with spinach, feta and cherry tomatoes in a bowl.
Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lemon feta spinach pasta is a light and quick meal, bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with taste. Enjoy it as a vegetarian meal or add your favorite protein for an extra boost. This pasta proves that you don’t need to be a cooking enthusiast to whip up a meal that’s both appealing and satisfying, making dinner time something to look forward to without the dread of preparation.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes

Roasted chicken thighs with sweet potatoes and pecans.
Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

If the kitchen isn’t your favorite place, this sheet pan chicken and sweet potatoes recipe might just change your mind. It’s an all-in-one meal that requires minimal prep and virtually no cleanup. The addition of caramelized pecans adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors perfectly. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to make a dinner that’s both easy and enjoyable, perfect for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken & Sweet Potatoes

Smashed White Bean Quesadillas

Smashed white bean quesadillas on a cutting board.
Smashed White Bean Quesadillas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Smashed white bean and kale quesadillas are here to make dinner effortless and fun. With melted cheddar and a creamy BBQ sauce, these quesadillas offer a twist on the traditional meatless meal. They’re quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for those evenings when cooking is the last thing you want to do. This recipe is for anyone who loves the idea of a delicious meal without the long prep time, ensuring dinner is both simple and delightful.
Get the Recipe: Smashed White Bean Quesadillas

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and broccoli stir fry served with white rice on a white plate.
Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This shaved beef and broccoli stir fry is perfect for when you want a quick and tasty dinner without the fuss. It comes together in minutes, offering a faster and fresher alternative to takeout. The crave-worthy sauce ensures each bite is packed with flavor, proving that quick meals can still be a hit at the dinner table. It’s a straightforward, stress-free option for anyone who prefers to keep cooking simple and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Greek Shrimp Skillet

Shrimp skillet dinner with kalamata olives, tomatoes and feta.
Greek Shrimp Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

The Greek shrimp skillet is a dream for those who dread dinner prep. It’s a 30-minute meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, featuring tomatoes, spinach, Kalamata olives, feta, and a burst of lemon and oregano. This dish is all about bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for a quick and delicious dinner. It’s ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a good meal without the hassle of complicated cooking steps.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Skillet

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