Do Yourself A Favor And Make These 27 Meals That Will Save You Time

Making time for cooking can sometimes feel like a puzzle, especially on those extra busy days. With these 27 time-saving meals, you’re all set to whip up something wonderful without the time crunch. From quick breakfasts that energize your morning to speedy dinners that end your day on a high note, each recipe is a lifeline for the time-strapped food lover.

Someone stacking veggie burritos.
Easy Burrito. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With just a few ingredients, this Lemon Pasta brings a refreshing twist to your dinner table. It’s quick to whip up, making it ideal for those busy nights when time is of the essence. The bright flavors of lemon and Parmesan cheese meld together for a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This Vegetable Stir Fry is a vibrant, healthy meal that comes together in no time. Toss your favorite veggies in a hot pan with some soy sauce and ginger for a flavorful dish that beats takeout any day. It’s a flexible recipe, so you can clear out the fridge and still end up with something amazing.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Tortilla Pizza

Four tortilla pizzas on a wooden cutting board.
Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a pizza night that doesn’t take all evening, Tortilla Pizza is a winner. Use a tortilla as the base for a crispy crust, add your favorite toppings, and bake for a few minutes. It’s a fun, customizable meal that gets dinner on the table in a flash, making it a favorite for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Egg Bites are the perfect make-ahead breakfast for those mornings when time just isn’t on your side. Mix eggs with your choice of fillings, pour into muffin tins, and bake. You’ll have a protein-packed start to your day that’s easy to grab and go.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

25 Minute Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
25 Minute Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This Black Bean Burger is a hearty, satisfying option that’s ready in just 25 minutes. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for those looking to add more plant-based meals to their repertoire. Serve it up with your favorite toppings for a burger night that everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: 25 Minute Black Bean Burger

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Chipotle black beans cooked and in a serving bowl.
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Recreate the taste of Chipotle at home with this Copycat Black Beans recipe. It’s surprisingly simple and brings a touch of smoky flavor to any Mexican-inspired dish. Pair it with rice or use as a filling for burritos and tacos for a quick, delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Creamy Avocado Sauce

Avocado sauce in a bowl with it's ingredients surrounding it.
Creamy Avocado Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This is a game changer for sandwiches, salads, or Mexican dishes. Creamy Avocado Sauce blend avocados with lime and garlic for a rich, creamy sauce, and ready in minutes. It’s the easiest way to add a boost of flavor to weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Avocado Sauce

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Some picking up a slice of cheese quesadilla.
Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Turn to your air fryer for a Cheese Quesadilla that’s crispy on the outside and melty on the inside. It’s a straightforward, quick meal that’s infinitely customizable with your favorite fillings. Perfect for a no-fuss lunch or a casual dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Penne Alla Vodka proves that you don’t need hours to create a pasta dish that’s rich in flavor. With a creamy tomato sauce and a hint of vodka, it’s a comforting meal that comes together quickly for a weeknight treat.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whip up this Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa for a fresh, zesty side that complements any Mexican meal. It’s a simple mix of corn, cilantro, lime, and jalapeno that’s ready in minutes, adding a burst of flavor to tacos, bowls, or chips.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Easy Burrito

Someone stacking veggie burritos.
Easy Burrito. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Wrap up dinner in a flash with this Easy Burrito recipe, combining your choice of fillings in a soft tortilla. It’s perfect for meal prep, customizable, and can be made ahead for a grab-and-go meal that’s satisfying and quick.
Get the Recipe: Easy Burrito

Cacio e Pepe

A plate of spaghetti with parmesan cheese on a green cloth.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cacio e Pepe is a timeless classic that requires just three ingredients and a few minutes to prepare. The simplicity of cheese, pepper, and pasta creates a comforting dish that’s sophisticated in its minimalism.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Combine the best of both worlds with this Pizza Salad, a light yet satisfying dish. It’s a quick, no-cook meal that brings together all your favorite pizza toppings over a bed of greens. Perfect for when you want something easy but delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Air Fryer Asparagus

Air fried asparagus with garlic and parmesan on a white plate.
Air Fryer Asparagus. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This Air Fryer Asparagus recipe offers a quick and healthy side dish, with the air fryer locking in flavor and creating a perfect texture. It’s a straightforward way to add greens to your meal, ready in minutes with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Mashed Potato Fritters

A stack of mashed potato fritters.
Mashed Potato Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Transform leftover mashed potatoes into Mashed Potato Fritters, a crispy treat that’s both easy and quick to make. They’re perfect for turning last night’s side into today’s snack or meal, combining convenience with a delicious crunch.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Fritters

Veggie Pizza

Someone taking a slice of veggie pizza.
Veggie Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Veggie Pizza on a thin crust bakes up in no time, offering a fresh, lighter take on traditional pizza. It’s loaded with a colorful array of veggies and a sprinkle of cheese, proving that quick meals can also be healthy and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

Waffles

Freshly made waffles on a plate with strawberries.
Waffles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Homemade Waffles are a breeze to make and far superior to store-bought versions. They’re fluffy, golden, and ready to be topped with your favorite fruits or syrup, making breakfast a meal to look forward to without too much morning hustle.
Get the Recipe: Waffles

Fried Banana

A close up of a plate of fried bananas with sauce.
Fried Banana. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A sweet, simple dessert that’s ready in minutes, Fried Banana offers a caramelized treat that feels indulgent. It’s the perfect way to use up ripe bananas and can be served with ice cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an easy, cozy finish to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

7 Layer Salad

A salad bowl filled with vegetables and peas.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This 7 Layer Salad is not only a time-saver but also a vibrant addition to any meal. Layer up greens, veggies, cheese, and a creamy dressing for a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s a straightforward way to bring freshness to the table quickly.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Hash Browns

Hash Browns on a white plate with an egg and avocado.
Hash Browns. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy Hash Browns are the ultimate breakfast side, golden and crunchy on the outside with a soft interior. They’re surprisingly easy to make from scratch, providing a comforting start to the day without a lengthy prep time.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Jalapeno Poppers

Baked jalapenos on a plate with dipping sauce.
Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tthe go-to appetizer for spice lovers, Jalapeno Poppers combines creamy cheese and the heat of jalapenos in a bite-sized snack. They’re quick to assemble and bake, offering a crowd-pleasing treat that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Sweet chili sauce in a small bowl on a light green cloth.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Homemade Thai Sweet Chili Sauce is surprisingly simple to make, offering a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. It’s perfect for dipping or glazing, and it’ll elevate any meal with a homemade touch that requires minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Grape Salad

Homemade fresh grape salad in a serving bowl with walnuts scattered on top.
Grape Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Try this as a refreshing side or dessert that’s unexpectedly easy to whip up. Grape Salad mixes fresh grapes with a creamy dressing and a sprinkle of brown sugar for a dish that’s both sweet and satisfying. It’s a quick way to add a fresh element to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spaghetti Marinara is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, combining ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs over pasta for a quick and easy meal. It’s a classic dish that’s always comforting, proving that great flavors don’t require complicated recipes.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Refried Beans

A bowl of homemade refried beans and lime wedges.
Refried Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These homemade Refried Beans are a flavorful, fuss-free side that complements any Mexican dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, they’re much tastier than canned versions and ready in a snap.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Easy Flatbread Pizza

Two slices of pizza with tomatoes and herbs.
Easy Flatbread Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This is your solution for busy nights, using pre-made flatbread as a base for all your favorite toppings. Easy Flatbread Pizza is a quick, customizable meal that gets dinner on the table in under 20 minutes, satisfying pizza cravings without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza

Crispy Shallots

A pile of crispy shallots on a plate.
Crispy Shallots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy Shallots add a burst of flavor and texture to any dish, from salads to soups. They’re surprisingly easy to make at home, offering a gourmet touch that’s ready in minutes, elevating even the simplest meals with their savory crunch.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shallots

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *