Discover the joy of small batch cooking with our curated recipes perfect for empty nesters. These dishes are tailored to fit your new lifestyle, offering the right amount of food without the waste. From savory Oven Fried Chicken to sweet Donut Bread Pudding, find simple, delicious meals that make cooking for two a delight. Embrace this new chapter with meals that are just as full of flavor as they are practical.
Oven Fried Chicken
This Oven Fried Chicken recipe is perfectly scaled down for those who love crispy, flavorful chicken without the excess. It’s an ideal choice for a small, cozy dinner, using just a few pieces of chicken to achieve that golden crust and juicy interior we all crave. Quick to prepare and deliciously satisfying, it brings the comfort of fried chicken into any kitchen with ease.
Get the Recipe: Oven Fried Chicken
Donut Bread Pudding
Transform your leftover donuts into a decadent Donut Bread Pudding with this inventive small batch recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a classic dessert, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without making a huge batch. The recipe is simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients to create a rich, comforting treat that’s perfect for a special breakfast or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Donut Bread Pudding
Meatball Subs
These Meatball Subs are the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal, sized just right for two. Enjoy the classic flavors of homemade meatballs, simmered in a savory marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese, all on a toasted roll. It’s a straightforward recipe that packs a punch, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a small gathering.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Subs
Blackened Chicken Thighs
Blackened Chicken Thighs offer a bold flavor in a small package, making them perfect for a dinner that’s both simple and exciting. This recipe uses a homemade spice blend to give the chicken a spicy, smoky crust, while keeping the inside tender and juicy. It’s an easy way to bring a little heat to your meal without needing a ton of ingredients or leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Thighs
Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce
This Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce recipe is a delicious way to enjoy vegetables, with a rich, creamy sauce that’s just the right amount for two. It’s a great side dish or vegetarian main, offering a comforting and cheesy delight without the waste. Simple ingredients and quick cooking times make this a hassle-free addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce
Denver Omelets
Denver Omelets in a small batch are perfect for a hearty breakfast without leftovers. Packed with diced ham, bell peppers, onions, and cheese, each omelet is a flavorful, satisfying start to the day. This recipe keeps things simple and straightforward, ensuring a delicious breakfast or brunch that’s easy to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Denver Omelets
Oven BBQ Ribs
Enjoy the taste of summer any time of the year with these Oven BBQ Ribs, tailored for a small batch cooking experience. This recipe ensures you can have tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a rich, smoky barbecue sauce, without the need to grill a whole rack. It’s ideal for a special dinner for two, bringing the barbecue indoors with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Oven BBQ Ribs
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Lemon Garlic Chicken in a small batch is a refreshing and light option, featuring tender chicken marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic blend. This recipe is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that doesn’t require a lot of ingredients or leave behind many leftovers. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious, nutritious dinner any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Chicken
Air Fryer French Toast
Make your mornings special with this Air Fryer French Toast, designed for small batches to ensure no waste. This recipe gives you crispy, golden French toast with a fraction of the effort and time. Perfect for a luxurious breakfast or brunch, it’s a simple way to treat yourself to something delicious without making too much.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Toast
Oven Baked Ranch Chicken
Oven Baked Ranch Chicken offers a delightfully flavorful dinner option with just the right amount for a small household. This recipe uses ranch seasoning to add a burst of flavor to tender chicken breasts, creating a dish that’s both easy to make and wonderfully tasty. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ranch Chicken