Lazy Cook’s Cheat Sheet: 17 Recipes That Are Easier Than Tying Your Shoes

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Lazy Cook’s Cheat Sheet: 17 Recipes That Are Easier Than Tying Your Shoes

Tired of spending too much time in the kitchen? These 17 recipes are perfect for anyone looking for quick and easy meal ideas. They’re designed to be simple and straightforward, making cooking less of a chore. You don’t need to be an expert to make these dishes – just follow the steps and you’ll have a great meal. Great for those lazy days when you want something delicious without all the work. Give these recipes a try and see how easy cooking can be.

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Broccoli Cheese Soup in two bowls with spoons nearby.
Broccoli Cheese Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Sometimes, you just need something warm and comforting that doesn’t require a million steps or ingredients. That’s where Broccoli Cheese Soup comes in. You probably have everything you need in your kitchen right now, and it comes together so fast, it’s basically waiting for you by the time you’re ready to sit down and eat. Perfect for those nights when you want to pretend you’re a chef without actually doing much work.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheese Soup

Tacos Dorados

Tacos Dorados on a plate.
Tacos Dorados. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving something crunchy and filled with flavor but don’t want to deal with a ton of prep? Here’s your answer. Tacos Dorados is the kind of meal that looks like you’ve put in more effort than you actually have. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or you’re entertaining friends, it won’t disappoint. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze, giving you more time to relax after a delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Tacos Dorados

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those nights when you’re staring at your kitchen wondering what to cook, Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe saves the day. Not only is it quick to make, but it also packs a punch in the taste department, making it a win-win for everyone. If you’ve got 30 minutes, you’ve got more than enough time to whip this up. Trust me; it’s a game-changer for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Air Fryer Chicken Fries

Air fried chicken fries with dipping sauce on a wooden cutting board.
Air Fryer Chicken Fries. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you thought making a crunchy, kid-friendly meal was time-consuming, think again. Your air fryer is about to become your best friend, turning out these crispy treats in minutes. They’re perfect for when you’re low on time but high on hunger. Air Fryer Chicken Fries is a simple solution for game days, after-school snacks, or those moments when you’re craving something crispy without wanting to order out. You’ll wonder why you have ever been bothered by deep frying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fries

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Sliced Smoked Bacon Wrapped Whole Pork Tenderloin on a white platter.
Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Who knew something as luxurious sounding as Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin could be so easy? It’s the sort of dish that makes it look like you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen for hours, but in reality, it’s far simpler than that. Ideal for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself after a long day. You throw it together, pop it in the oven, and voila, you’ve got a meal that’s bound to impress. No one has to know it was hardly any trouble at all.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Lemon-Oregano Chicken Kabobs with a dipping sauce.
Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

When you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing but also filling, Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs is the way to go. They’re especially great for outdoor cooking, making your barbecue or picnic a hit without any fuss. It’s as simple as it gets, with a prep time that’s practically nonexistent. But don’t let the ease fool you; these kabobs are full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. Great for those looking to enjoy their time outside more than in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Brisket Fried Rice

Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.
Brisket Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Got some leftover brisket and am not sure what to do with it. Turn it into the star of your next meal with some simple pantry staples. Brisket Fried Rice is a comforting dish that’s as easy to make as it is to eat. Ideal for weeknights, this recipe turns leftovers into a completely new meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a smart way to reduce waste and save money, proving that sometimes, the best meals come from improvisation.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

A plate with New Orleans BBQ Shrimp and lemon wedges, with serving utensils to the side.
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Bring a little bit of the bayou to your kitchen with minimal effort. New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is all about bold flavors without the need for complex cooking techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s perfect for a casual dinner that still feels a bit special. And since it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll have plenty of time to kick back and relax, enjoying the fruits of your not-so-laborious labor.
Get the Recipe: New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

Kefta Beef Kabobs

Kefta Beef Kabobs stacked on a white platter.
Kefta Beef Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you’re looking to mix up your grilling game without getting too fancy, Kefta Beef Kabobs is your answer. They come together so quickly that you’ll spend more time eating than cooking. It’s a great way to introduce new flavors to your routine without any intimidation. Serve these up at your next gathering, and watch them disappear before your eyes. Who knew something this simple could be such a crowd-pleaser?
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Who says a fancy-sounding sandwich has to be hard to make? Not us. With minimal effort, you can have a restaurant-quality sandwich right at home. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, especially when you want something a bit more interesting than your standard fare. And the best part? Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich tastes like summer in every bite, making it a great choice for outdoor meals.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Think of firing up the grill and having a meal ready in no time that transports you straight to the Mediterranean coast. That’s what you get with Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. It’s so simple, yet the end result is bursting with freshness and perfect for those warmer evenings. It’s proof that sometimes, the best meals are the ones that are the easiest to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

A plate of Thai pork & Green beans with rice, topped with a fried egg, served with chopsticks on the side.
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re looking to bring some excitement to your meal prep without adding complexity, Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle is the dish for you. Cooking on a Blackstone griddle not only makes this fun but unbelievably easy. The result? A meal that’s bursting with flavors and ready in no time. It’s perfect for spicing up your dinner routine without turning your kitchen into a disaster zone.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Pizza Pasta Salad

A platter of pizza pasta salad served on a white rectangular dish.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Need a dish for a picnic or potluck that’s a little out of the ordinary? Pizza Pasta Salad is your answer. It’s as easy to make as it is to eat and trust me, it’ll be a hit. You get all the flavors of pizza without the hassle of dough or the oven, making it perfect for hot days when you can’t face the idea of baking. It’s a fun twist on two classics that everyone is bound to love.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp served on a white rectangular dish.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Ever crave takeout but not the wait or the cost? Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is surprisingly straightforward to whip up. It’s the perfect solution for when you want something sweet and savory without leaving home. Whether it’s for a party or just a special treat for yourself, it proves that you can recreate your favorite flavors without needing a degree. And it’s so much better knowing you made it yourself.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This classic dish might sound fancy, but your air fryer simplifies everything. It’s like having a gourmet meal without all the hard work typically associated with it. Perfect for impressing a date or simply treating yourself to something a bit special during the week. It turns out so well, you might just forget about the traditional way of making it. Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu is definitely a must-try for anyone looking to up their dinner game easily.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Sometimes, you just need a bit of comfort food, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend hours in the kitchen. Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo comes together so quickly that it’s almost ridiculous. It’s ideal for when you want to indulge without the hassle of a complicated recipe. Whether it’s for a family meal or a quiet night in, it’s a surefire hit. You get all the richness and creaminess without a reservation.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re dreaming of the beach but stuck in your kitchen, Baja Fish Tacos are the next best thing. They’re incredibly easy to make, meaning you won’t miss any of the sunshine while you’re cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that still feels like a treat. It’s a great way to bring a little vacation vibe to your dinner table without any fuss. Trust me, it’s like a mini-holiday on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

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