Only One Hour to Dinner With These 27 Fast Recipes

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Only One Hour to Dinner With These 27 Fast Recipes

These 27 fast recipes are a perfect match for your busy schedule, helping you to get a meal on the table without the need to spend all evening in the kitchen. With straightforward steps and no-nonsense ingredients, you’ll be serving up a storm in less time than it takes to watch your favorite TV show. Whether you’re in a time crunch or just don’t want to spend your entire evening playing chef, these dishes are great for getting food on the table ASAP.

A close-up of a chicken Caesar salad with croutons, cherry tomatoes, and pasta, served in a white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This casserole delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers without the stress of actual stuffing, all in one pan. It’s a mix of ground meat, rice, bell peppers, and a mix of spices cooked together for a filling meal. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner that’s also hearty and healthy. Plus, it’s a clever way to incorporate more vegetables into your family’s diet, and it’s likely to be a hit even with picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish with broccoli and cheese in it.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Broccoli Casserole recipe requires minimal ingredients and is ready in about 50 minutes. It features broccoli, cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and breadcrumbs in a delicious and comforting dish. It’s straightforward enough for beginner cooks and doesn’t demand much time, making it a great choice for busy nights. Serve this when you need a quick, comforting meal that adds a serving of vegetables to your dinner with minimal work, helping to keep your evening smooth and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Cabbage and Sausage

A pan of cabbage and sausage garnished with fresh herbs.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Cabbage and Sausage dish is a straightforward, single-pan recipe that cooks in less than 30 minutes, making it a quick meal option. It pairs the robust flavors of sausage with cabbage, which nicely absorbs flavors. It requires just a pan and a few basic ingredients. It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights, serving a quick, flavorful dinner. This straightforward recipe is especially handy when you’re short on time but still want a meal that feels home-cooked and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of chicken bites in a garlic butter sauce with a wooden spoon.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are quick to prepare and full of flavor, making them a great recipe for busy evenings. You only need chicken, garlic, butter, and a sprinkle of spices to create this dish in about 20 minutes. These bites are versatile and can be paired with anything from rice to salads, making them a practical addition to your quick-cooking repertoire. They’re perfect for when you want a dinner that’s fast yet flavorful, helping to reduce the rush of getting a delicious meal on the table.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish with canned tuna and peas in it.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

With simple ingredients like canned tuna, noodles, peas, and cheese, this casserole is easy to put together and cooks in under an hour. It’s a classic comfort food that simplifies dinner time, perfect for those evenings when you’re too tired to cook but still want a meal that feels homemade. The dish also reheats well, making it a practical choice for making sure you have delicious leftovers for lunch the next day, simplifying both your dinner and lunchtime meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Shake and bake pork chops on a baking sheet.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy these Shake and Bake Pork Chops that boast a crispy coating without the need for frying. It’s a quick and straightforward recipe that’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want a great meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Even if you’re new to cooking, this dish is easy to master and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops

Baked Ravioli

A close-up of a cheesy baked ravioli garnished with herbs, with a fork lifting a portion to show the melted cheese.
Baked Ravioli. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Transform your dinner routine with this Baked Ravioli, a dish that’s as quick as it is mouthwatering. By using frozen cheese ravioli, you can skip the lengthy prep and dive straight into layering with rich marinara sauce and a generous helping of melted cheese. It’s a fantastic meal that you can pull off in just one hour, making it a top pick for those evenings when time is of the essence, but you still want a hearty dish.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A fresh Caesar salad with chicken, croutons, tomatoes, and dressing, served in a large white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is your go-to for an extra quick meal, ready in just 25 minutes. It’s perfect for meal prep, a fast dinner, or as a crowd-pleaser at your next potluck. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both fast and a joy to eat, saving you time without skimping on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is a delicious mix of juicy shrimp and fresh spinach sautéed with grape tomatoes in a garlicky sauce, enriched with spices like paprika and red pepper flakes. Ready in just 40 minutes, this dish is not only quick to make but also packed with flavors that seem like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a special dinner without spending too much time cooking, giving you more moments to unwind at night.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 30 minutes, this casserole combines broccoli, cauliflower, crispy bacon, and lots of cheese for a dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. It uses frozen vegetables, which minimizes prep time and cleanup, making it a lifesaver on hectic evenings. This hearty, veggie-packed meal is a great way to feed your family something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s designed to fit into your busy schedule, helping you manage those nights when cooking feels like just another chore.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tortellini Soup is the perfect meal for when you need something quick and filling. Ready in just 40 minutes using only one pot, this soup is packed with tender chicken, butter, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and cheesy tortellini in a savory broth. It’s a hearty and nutritious option that saves you time on both cooking and cleaning, allowing you to relax more in the evening. Great for those busy nights when you want a delicious dinner without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is perfect for a speedy dinner, taking only 30 minutes to prepare. It features juicy ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, hearty cauliflower rice, and earthy mushrooms, all cooked together in one skillet. It’s the perfect solution for a filling dinner that minimizes kitchen time and maximizes family time. Plus, the leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day, simplifying your meal-planning worries.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spinach Chicken Bake is a lifesaver on frantic evenings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish combines juicy chicken thighs with creamy spinach and melted mozzarella and cream cheese. The result is a creamy, comforting bake that feels restaurant-worthy yet is incredibly easy to make. It’s the kind of meal that can calm a hectic day and fill your family with good food fast. It’s also low on cleanup, making it even easier to manage after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A spoon is serving Hungarian mushroom soup into a bowl.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is a comforting dish ready in 45 minutes. It combines earthy mushrooms with a rich creamy sauce of sour cream and milk. Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking make this soup a stress-free option for dinner, especially when served with some crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s a comforting end to a busy day, serving warmth and an easy meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a quick, flavorful meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. This one-pan recipe features tender chicken breasts seasoned in garlic powder and then simmered in a rich and creamy garlic sauce. It’s a great option for those busy nights when you need a hearty dinner fast. Easy to pair with your favorite sides, this dish will simplify your meal prep and cut down on your time in the kitchen, allowing you to relax and enjoy more of your evening.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Ready in under an hour, this Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect pick-me-up after a long day. It’s budget-friendly, and you can prepare it ahead of time, making it a great choice for a no-stress evening. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, and the leftovers freeze well, so you can enjoy a great meal now and save some for later.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

A baking sheet filled with vegetables and sausages.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a real timesaver, ready in just 30 minutes. This simple meal involves tossing your favorite sausages and a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini on a sheet pan and roasting them until they’re perfectly cooked. The flavors meld beautifully in the oven, creating a hearty dish that’s both easy to prepare and clean up after. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious dinner without the stress of using and washing multiple pots and pans.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

A pot of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is a hearty and flavorful option, ready in just an hour. This soup blends the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the exciting taste of red peppers, seasoned with a careful selection of spices, such as cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. It’s not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to adjust the flavors to your liking. This soup is a great way to enjoy a stress-free, homemade dinner that caters to personal taste preferences and delivers a nourishing meal without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Sausage Curry

A dish with sausage, carrots and peas in it.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Curry is a quick and flavorful dish that can be ready in just 45 minutes. This easy-to-make curry combines sausages with sweet potato, carrots, peas, and a rich curry sauce, delivering a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a stress-free family dinner, it pairs beautifully with rice or naan for soaking up the sauce. For those evenings when you’re looking for something different yet simple, this curry checks all the boxes, giving you a stress-free cooking experience.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fajita Baked Chicken serves an exciting mix of flavors, ready in only 30 minutes. Season chicken breasts with fajita spices, including chili powder, paprika, and cumin. Then topped with cream cheese, colorful mini sweet peppers, and shredded mozzarella, all baked to create a flavorful meal that’s low on carbs. The result is a creamy, cheesy dish with a kick of spice that’s perfect for a no-stress family meal. Serve it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner that simplifies your evening routine.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Wave goodbye to dinner stress with these Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs, ready in just 45 minutes. This recipe mixes ground turkey with Thai spices and drenches them in a coconut curry sauce, bringing a bold and exotic flavor to your table without much work. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something different but don’t have hours to spend. Plus, the simple ingredients list and quick cooking time mean you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Creamy Dijon Chicken

Creamy chicken dish garnished with bacon and herbs in a skillet with a spatula.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a comforting dish that’s quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish. It features tender chicken thighs simmered in a luscious cream sauce flavored with Dijon mustard, paired with spinach and bits of bacon for added depth and texture. This one-pan meal minimizes your cleanup time, making it a perfect option for busy nights. It’s great for those times when you need a quick yet comforting meal that keeps cooking and washing up to a minimum.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a simple, quick dish ready in 25 minutes, combining crunchy cabbage, salty bacon, and onions. It’s a light yet flavorful meal or side dish that adds a delicious vegetable option to your dinner table. This recipe is especially good on those days when you’re short on time but still want to eat something that feels home-cooked. It’s also a great way to get more vegetables into your meals with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is an easy, comforting meal that you can whip up in just 30 minutes. This dish features tender chicken thighs in a smooth, creamy mushroom sauce, creating a rich flavor experience that’s hard to beat. It’s a great recipe for those evenings when you need something quick and filling without spending too much time in the kitchen. This one-pan meal also means very little cleanup, streamlining your dinner routine on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Keto Zuppa Toscana

Two bowls of soup with bacon and kale.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Prepare a comforting bowl of Keto Zuppa Toscana in just one hour. Inspired by a classic Italian favorite, this soup is loaded with bacon, garlic, sausage, radishes, and kale, all swimming in a rich, creamy broth. It’s tailored for a carb-conscious lifestyle, making it a worry-free meal option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for health. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal after a busy day, this easy recipe allows you to enjoy a stress-free end to your evening.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet of creamy sun dried tomato chicken with a wooden spoon.
Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Get a great dinner on your table in 30 minutes with Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. This quick one-skillet meal features boneless, skinless chicken thighs seasoned with Italian spices and cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made of sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for those seeking a hearty meal without the long wait or cleanup afterward. This dish is not only easy to make but also comforting, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken in just 40 minutes. This dish is a hearty combination of chicken thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all nestled in a creamy sauce of heavy cream and chicken broth. It’s cooked all in one pan, which means minimal cleanup and more downtime for you. The flavors are rich and comforting, great for a quick, substantial dinner that feels like a treat. This dish will help you manage those hectic evenings by cutting down on cooking time and stress.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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