Dinner Under 30 (Minutes of Prep): 15 Meals for When You Can’t Even

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Dinner Under 30 (Minutes of Prep): 15 Meals for When You Can’t Even

Sometimes, after a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where these recipes come into play, offering 15 meal ideas that are quick and easy. Each one takes less than 30 minutes to get on the table, so you can relax sooner. These meals are perfect for those days when you’re too tired to fuss over dinner but still want something tasty. With these recipes, you can whip up a great meal in no time, even on those days when you can’t even.

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

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever dream of a magical trip to the Mediterranean but stuck in the kitchen instead? Mediterranean Cod is your ticket to a quick culinary getaway. It’s all about bringing a burst of sun-soaked flavors into your meal without any fuss. Ideal for those evenings when you’re looking for something nourishing yet uncomplicated, this dish wraps comfort and simplicity into one. It’s the closest you’ll get to a vacation on your plate with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A plate of chicken thighs.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sometimes, all you need is a dish that does the hard work for you. Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a testament to the wonders of quick cooking without sacrificing taste. The marinade works its magic, turning ordinary chicken into a feast of flavors. It’s the ideal solution for those nights when you’re squeezed for time but unwilling to settle for bland. Let the air fryer do its thing and get ready for a meal that’s bound to become a regular in your lineup.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

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.

Fancy a touch of indulgence without the effort? Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo brings the creamy goodness of a restaurant favorite right into your home kitchen, and it does so in record time. This dish is all about treating yourself to something luxurious without the wait. It’s a quick path to a rich, comforting meal that feels like a night out, even when you’re staying in. Perfect for when you want a little pampering after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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

Who knew elegance could be this easy? Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu offers a modern twist on a classic dish, giving you all the sophistication without the usual fuss. The air fryer does the heavy lifting, ensuring a perfectly crispy exterior with a juicy, cheesy center. It’s the perfect way to impress dinner guests or treat yourself on a whim, proving that a posh meal doesn’t require all day in the kitchen. Go ahead, pat yourself on the back for this one.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding a cut steak quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Got some steak lingering in the fridge and not sure what to do with it? Turn it into Leftover Steak Quesadilla and watch it disappear in a flash. This recipe is the king of transformation, giving yesterday’s steak a deliciously cheesy, new lease on life. It’s your best bet for a meal that’s both utterly satisfying and ridiculously easy to put together. Great for a fuss-free dinner that feels anything but leftover.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a dish that knows how to mix business with pleasure. Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts is the perfect quick fix for when you’re craving something that’s both easy to make and a joy to eat. It serves up a delicious contrast of flavors and textures, making every bite a little trip. Whether tucked into a sandwich or sprawled over fresh greens, it’s versatile, quick to prepare, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s a surefire way to brighten up your mealtime no sweat required.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A hand holding a fork over a bowl of Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka on a wooden table.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Dreaming of Italian dining without leaving the house? Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka recipe is your express ticket to flavor country. It captures the essence of a beloved restaurant dish with none of the complexity, making it surprisingly straightforward to recreate. It’s the kind of meal that impresses without distress, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to treat yourself. An impressively easy way to upgrade your dinner game.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

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.

Want a taste of the exotic without spending hours in the kitchen? Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle is your shortcut to flavor town. This dish brings a sizzle to your table with minimal effort, making it seem like you’ve labored over the stove for hours. It’s a fantastic way to spice up your dinner routine, offering an escape from the mundane with every bite. Perfect for when you want something different but don’t have the time to fuss.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Reuben Sliders

Reuben sliders on a slate board.
Reuben Sliders. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving something comforting but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen? Reuben Sliders are here to the rescue. These little guys pack all the punch of the classic sandwich in a bite-sized version that’s easy to whip up. They’re fantastic for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, especially when your stomach’s grumbling but you’re pressed for time. A few simple steps, and voila, you’ve got a tasty meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy those comfort food cravings.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Sliders

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Are you in the mood for pizza but looking for something a little different? Ham & Asparagus Pizza brings a fresh twist to your pizza night with minimal effort. This combo turns a standard pizza into a gourmet experience right from your own oven. It’s amazingly simple to pull off yet impressively tasty, proving that sometimes, the simplest ideas are the best. Perfect for when you want to shake things up a bit without breaking a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Steak & Pasta Salad

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re caught between the desire for something hearty yet light, Steak & Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly. This dish strikes a beautiful balance, combining robust flavors with the simplicity of salad. It’s a no-brainer for lunches when you want to feel satisfied without the sluggishness that heavier meals bring. Not only is it quick to put together, but it also leaves you feeling refreshed and energized. Ideal for those moments when you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and revitalizing.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Blackstone Sausage & Peppers

A bowl of sausage and peppers.
Blackstone Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let’s keep dinner straightforward yet mouthwateringly good. Blackstone Sausage & Peppers is the ultimate in easy-to-make meals that don’t skimp on the flavor. It’s colorful, it’s peppery, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. This is the dish to go for when you need something hearty and satisfying but are short on time and energy. A few minutes on the griddle, and you’ve got a no-fuss meal that’s ready to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Sausage & Peppers

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black dish.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

On the lookout for something that’s as nutritious as it is quick to prepare? Salmon Pasta Salad has got you covered. This dish is a powerhouse, packing in all the good stuff without skimping on flavor. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good about what you’re eating, especially when your time is limited. Throw it together for a last-minute dinner that feels thoughtfully prepared. It’s the superhero of quick and healthy meals, always ready to save the day.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Baja Fish Tacos

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

If you’ve got a hankering for something quick and fulfilling, look no further. With every bite, Baja Fish Tacos bring the coast right to your plate, offering a simple way to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours over the stove. They’re the perfect pick for weeknight dinners when time is tight but you still crave something satisfying. Not only do they whip up in a flash, but they also promise smiles all around the dinner table. Trust me, it’s a surefire way to please both the picky eaters and the foodies in your family.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice on a white plate.
Ham Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turn yesterday’s leftovers into today’s feast with some simple magic. Ham Fried Rice comes to the rescue, transforming spare bits from the fridge into a scrumptious meal that’s both speedy and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a clever way to make the most of what you’ve got while keeping everyone at the table happy and hungry for more. It’s proof that some quick thinking and a hot pan can lead to delicious results. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, so you’re all set for a fuss-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice

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