Why Bother With Overpriced Restaurants When These 26 One-Hour Recipes Exist

Photo of author

| Published:

Why Bother With Overpriced Restaurants When These 26 One-Hour Recipes Exist

Why bother with overpriced restaurants when these 26 one-hour recipes exist? Skip the reservations and save your cash for something more fun. You can whip up something great in just an hour, and trust me, you won’t miss the overpriced appetizers or the wait for a table. These recipes are perfect for anyone who wants a fantastic meal without the hassle or the hefty bill.

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

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

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

This Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach is a 25-minute meal that brings a great restaurant vibe to your table. It’s made with shrimp, fresh spinach, grape tomatoes, and a kick of red pepper flakes. Perfect for nights when you want something light yet flavorful without going out. This dish saves time while letting you enjoy a delicious meal at home. Skip the takeout and whip up this instead. It’s great for busy evenings when you want a good meal with minimal effort. The quick preparation and fresh ingredients make it a hit for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled chicken pieces with a glossy glaze, garnished with chopped herbs, served on a beige plate.
Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken is a great mix of sweet and spicy, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s super easy. Make the hot honey sauce, marinate the chicken for 15-30 minutes, then grill. You can prep the sauce ahead and store it for up to a week. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, even when reheated, making it great for leftovers or packed lunches.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

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 a one-pan meal ready in 30 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken thighs seasoned with Italian herbs, onion powder, and paprika are cooked in a rich mushroom sauce. This dish is great for evenings when you want something special without spending too much time in the kitchen. It brings a touch of restaurant quality to your table without needing takeout. Enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

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.

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs are a 30-minute meal that brings bold Thai flavors to your dinner table. Made with ground turkey, eggs, and seasonings, these meatballs are simmered in a rich coconut curry sauce. They are perfect for spicing up your weeknight dinners without the complexity of traditional Thai recipes. Enjoy a taste of Thailand at home and skip the takeout. This dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. The rich sauce and tender meatballs make it a standout dish.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

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.

Baked Ravioli is your go-to for a stress-free weeknight dinner. It’s lasagna but without all the work — grab frozen cheese ravioli, cover it with marinara sauce, and top with lots of cheese. Ready in about an hour, it’s perfect for nights when you want that cozy, cheesy goodness without leaving the house. It’s great for enjoying a hearty meal without much effort. Skip the restaurant and enjoy this comforting dish at home. This dish brings you all the cheesy goodness you crave without the time-consuming preparation.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

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

This Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup is a quick and easy dinner option, ready in an hour. It blends the smooth sweetness of sweet potatoes with the bright flavors of red bell peppers and onions, all seasoned with cumin and paprika in a creamy base. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal fast. Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete dinner that makes skipping the restaurant a breeze. This soup is perfect for when you want something filling without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

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

Hungarian Mushroom Soup is ready in 45 minutes. It’s great for a quick dinner on a cold night, made with mushrooms, sour cream, milk, onions, and spices. This soup hits the spot every time. The creamy texture and rich mushroom flavor are perfect for warming up after a long day. It’s a quick way to enjoy a hearty soup without spending hours in the kitchen or eating out. You’ll appreciate how simple it is to prepare while bringing comfort and warmth to your table.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a quick 30-minute one-pan meal that feels like a treat. Featuring seasoned chicken thighs simmered in a smooth and creamy sauce of heavy cream, dijon mustard, chicken broth, lemon juice, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Fresh spinach is wilted right in the pan at the end to add nutrition and color. It’s perfect for making at home and skipping dining out. The creamy sauce complements the chicken and spinach well, making it great for a weeknight dinner. You’ll enjoy how it brings rich flavors with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

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

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole turns classic ingredients into a quick, flavorful meal in just 45 minutes. Mixing bell peppers, ground meat, rice, and cheese, this dish makes your evening easier while packing in flavor. Eating out is unnecessary when you can make something great at home. It’s filling, easy to make, and perfect for meal planning. The cheesy topping and hearty filling make it a favorite for the whole family. This casserole is a great way to have a delicious dinner without spending too much time cooking.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry in a skillet garnished with herbs.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Curry brings together hearty sausages, sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, and peas in a rich curry sauce all in one pan. It’s one of those recipes with restaurant quality that you can make right at home, giving you a filling meal in just 45 minutes. This dish is perfect when you want a quick dinner without much effort. The rich curry sauce pairs well with the veggies, making it perfect for a cozy night in. You’ll love how easy it is to create and how it cuts down your kitchen time.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Cabbage and Sausage

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

Cabbage and Sausage is a quick, one-skillet meal ready in under 25 minutes. Combining chicken sausage with cabbage, onions, and butter, it’s a great pick for a filling dinner that keeps kitchen time short. This dish is a simple way to enjoy a veggie-packed meal at home. The combination of sausage and cabbage serves a hearty flavor that’s delicious and easy to prepare. You’ll appreciate how this dish makes it easy to have a nutritious dinner in no time without the need to eat out.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is your go-to for a quick dinner, ready in 20 minutes. This dish features pan-fried chicken pieces tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic powder. It pairs perfectly with rice or veggies, making it a great choice for those nights when you want to skip the restaurant and eat at home. This meal is perfect for families or anyone needing a fast, delicious dinner solution. These chicken bites save you time and still deliver on flavor, making them a real lifesaver on busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Spinach Chicken Bake

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

Spinach Chicken Bake is a simple 30-minute meal that combines chicken thighs with a creamy mixture of softened cream cheese and fresh spinach, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese and baked until golden. This dish is a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal without heading to a restaurant. It’s quick to prepare and packed with greens, making it a balanced meal that checks flavor and nutrition. This bake makes eating well easy and stress-free, perfect for those who want a nutritious dinner with minimal effort. You can enjoy more time relaxing after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Keto Zuppa Toscana

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

Keto Zuppa Toscana is a lighter version of the classic soup, ready in an hour, featuring sausage, radish, kale, spices, and Parmesan cheese. This hearty soup is perfect for nights when you need something comforting yet quick. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a lighter dinner without sacrificing taste or filling qualities. Enjoying this soup at home means you get a restaurant-quality meal while saving money and staying cozy. It’s perfect for those who want a delicious and easy meal that fits their dietary needs.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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

Creamy Tuscan Chicken features crisp skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs cooked with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a creamy sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without much effort. Skip the expensive restaurant meal and enjoy a luxurious dinner at home, impressing family or guests with your cooking skills. This dish is great for those who want a rich and flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare and delivers on taste, making your evenings less stressful.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This 30-minute meal is great for skipping the restaurant. Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner features hearty sausages and a colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and zucchini, all seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme, roasted together on a single sheet pan with avocado oil. Perfect for busy weeknights, it reduces cleanup time and lets you relax after dinner. This dish is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it a go-to for those hectic days when you need a quick, easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

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

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is great for a quick dinner at home. In 30 minutes, you get steamed broccoli and cauliflower mixed with a creamy cheese sauce and topped with crispy bacon. It’s a quick, comforting dinner that feels special without dining out. Perfect for hectic nights when you need a stress-free meal everyone will enjoy. The cheesy, bacon-topped goodness makes it a hit with the whole family, and the easy prep means less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Corn Soup is great for a quick, homemade meal, cutting out the need to eat out. Ready in less than an hour, it features tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth with a hint of cream. It’s a cozy meal perfect for when you want something filling and homemade. This soup makes dinner plans easy, serving a rich option that keeps you from takeout. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal, it’s an easy way to get a homemade dinner on the table fast. The hearty ingredients and soothing flavors make it a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn 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.

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is a homemade dish that brings restaurant quality in 30 minutes. This one-skillet meal combines ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, mushrooms, and a rich sauce from cream cheese, beef broth, heavy cream, and tomato paste. It’s a hearty dinner that’s easy to prepare and minimizes cleanup, perfect for busy nights when you want a home-cooked meal without much hassle. This dish makes dinner quick and cleanup easy. The creamy, cheesy flavors blend well with the beef and veggies for a meal everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

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

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken looks like you bought it from a restaurant. Ready in 30 minutes, it features tender chicken in a rich sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan. It’s a quick, easy meal that brings great flavors to your table, perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe helps you enjoy a fancy meal with minimal effort. The rich, tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, making it a standout dish that feels like a special treat.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Fajita Baked Chicken

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

Fajita Baked Chicken is great for skipping the restaurant and making a delicious meal at home. This 30-minute dish brings Mexican flavors with seasoned chicken, cream cheese, sweet peppers, and melted mozzarella. The chicken is perfectly seasoned, creating a creamy base, while the sweet peppers add a fresh and colorful touch. It’s a simple, cheesy bake perfect for a quick, colorful dinner, making it easy to avoid takeout. This meal shows you can enjoy a homemade dinner without the extra time and effort.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

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

Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon at home, and forget about takeout. This quick 25-minute dish combines the crunch of cabbage with the rich flavor of bacon, creating a simple and filling dish. Perfect as a side or light main dish, it’s an easy way to include more vegetables in your meals. It’s great for nights when you want a quick meal without spending too much time cooking. It’s a simple option that makes eating vegetables more exciting and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a pan.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts shows you don’t need to eat out to enjoy a great meal. This dish features tender chicken thighs and artichokes in a rich, creamy sauce, ready in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for your weeknight dinners, giving you a meal that feels special with minimal effort. The creamy sauce and bright lemon flavor make staying in feel like a treat. Perfect for those nights when you want a quick cleanup and a delicious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy Garlic Chicken

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

Creamy Garlic Chicken is perfect for skipping the restaurant and making a great meal at home. This dish features tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce, ready in 30 minutes. The rich sauce, infused with garlic and Parmesan, coats the chicken well, making every bite flavorful. It’s perfect for evenings when you’re craving a rich and comforting meal with an Italian touch without spending much time in the kitchen. It’s an easy way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful dish that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole makes eating in rather than dining out worth it. Combining tuna, creamy sauce, and noodles, this casserole is ready in under an hour and is great for a comforting meal. It features a creamy, cheesy flavor with mild tuna and fresh peas. This dish is also practical for leftovers, making it a great meal solution for busy households. Perfect for those who want a simple, delicious meal without the hassle of takeout. It’s a quick and filling option for any weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Broccoli Casserole

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

Skip the restaurant when you whip up Broccoli Casserole. This dish, ready in 50 minutes, mixes broccoli, cheddar cheese, and cream of mushroom soup for an easy, hearty meal. A combination of crushed buttery crackers and melted butter adds a nice crunch. It shows you don’t need complex recipes to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s perfect for those looking for a simple yet delicious meal that is quick to prepare. It’s an easy way to enjoy a flavorful dish without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.