17 Quick Meals You Can Make In The Time It Takes Your Oven To Preheat

For those moments when hunger strikes but time is of the essence, these 17 quick meals come to the rescue, ready in the blink of an eye—or, more precisely, in the time it takes your oven to preheat. This compilation is a game-changer for busy evenings, offering a variety of dishes that are not only swift to prepare but also packed with flavor.

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

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.

Bringing the Chipotle favorite right to your kitchen, this corn salsa is a game changer for taco night. It’s fresh, easy to whip up, and adds a kick to any dish. You’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Penne Alla Vodka

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

This Penne Alla Vodka comes together quicker than you’d think and is a real crowd-pleaser. It’s creamy, slightly tangy, and just the right kind of indulgent. Forget about waiting for delivery, this pasta has got you covered.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

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

Quesadillas in an air fryer? Absolutely. This cheese quesadilla is crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and ready in a snap. It’s the perfect quick fix for that cheesy craving.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

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.

Who said burgers can’t be fast and healthy? This black bean burger is hearty, flavorful, and done in less than half an hour. It might just become your new favorite meatless Monday dish.
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.

Get that Chipotle taste at home with these copycat black beans. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to be a side or the main event. Your rice bowls will never be the same.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Lemon Cookies

A stack of lemon cookies on a cooling rack.
Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Brighten up your snack time with these easy lemon cookies. They’re soft, chewy, and have just the right amount of tang. Plus, they’re ready before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

Air Fryer Asparagus

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

Asparagus in the air fryer comes out perfectly tender and crispy. It’s a quick, healthy side that complements any meal. You’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious it is.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Crispy Shallots

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

Add a crunch to your meals with these crispy shallots. They’re surprisingly simple to make and can elevate a simple dish to something special. You’ll want to top everything with them.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shallots

Hash Browns

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

Who needs the drive-thru when you can make hash browns at home in no time? They’re crispy, golden, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for breakfast or as a side, anytime.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Spaghetti Marinara

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

Spaghetti Marinara is a classic that never disappoints. It’s quick, comforting, and requires minimal ingredients. You’ll find yourself making it on repeat for those busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Easy Flatbread Pizza

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

This flatbread pizza is the definition of fast and flexible. Throw on your favorite toppings, bake it for a few minutes, and voila! Dinner is served. It’s that easy and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Easy Flatbread Pizza

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.

Making Thai Sweet Chili Sauce at home is surprisingly straightforward and adds a flavorful punch to dishes. It’s sweet, spicy, and perfect for dipping. Why buy it when you can make it better?
Get the Recipe: Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

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 feast for the eyes but also comes together quickly. It’s fresh, loaded with textures, and a hit at any gathering. Say goodbye to boring salads.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Easy Burrito

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

Wrap up dinner in no time with this easy burrito. It’s customizable, filling, and ready faster than you can say “takeout.” A perfect solution for a quick and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Burrito

Jalapeno Poppers

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

Spice up your snack game with these jalapeno poppers. They’re easy to make, packed with cheese, and have just the right amount of heat. Perfect for when you need a little kick.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers

Refried Beans

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

Homemade refried beans are simpler than you think and miles better than the canned stuff. They’re creamy, flavorful, and the ideal side dish. You’ll be scooping them up by the spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Mashed Potato Fritters

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

Transform leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden fritters in no time. They’re the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. It’s a great way to give leftovers a delicious second life.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Fritters

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