When it comes to cooking on busy nights, finding quick and easy recipes that still pack a flavor punch can be a challenge. But what if we told you that there are ways to create delicious dinners with just three ingredients? Sounds too good to be true, right? Wrong! With the right combination of simplicity, convenience, and mouthwatering flavors, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 quick and easy 3-ingredient recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From seafood to poultry, pork, beef, and even vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, grab your ingredients and let the cooking begin!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser, with succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and served over al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low and add white wine (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic butter sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken
Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Recipe
Brighten up your dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic lemon pepper baked chicken recipe! With a zesty blend of citrus, herbs, and spices, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
• 2 tbsp black peppercorns
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, and salt.
3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the top of each breast with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
5. Pour the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
6. Sprinkle thyme leaves on top (optional).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4
Honey Soy Glazed Salmon
This sweet and savory recipe combines the richness of honey with the depth of soy sauce to create a flavorful glaze for salmon fillets.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger until well combined.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-soy glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Drizzle vegetable oil over the glaze to prevent sticking.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This classic casserole combines the warmth of rice, the freshness of broccoli, and the richness of cheese for a satisfying comfort food dish perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the savory flavors of spinach and feta cheese with juicy chicken breast, resulting in a delicious and satisfying main course. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Mozzarella Salad
This classic Italian-inspired salad is a simple yet flavorful combination of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and chopped basil.
2. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the tomato mixture.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with this crispy and savory Parmesan crusted recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each pork chop in olive oil, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle remaining olive oil over the pork chops.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Lime Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilling game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Moist chicken breasts are infused with the creamy richness of avocado, zesty lime juice, and a hint of cumin.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add diced avocado to the marinade and mix well.
4. Place chicken breasts in the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pasta
This rich and creamy pasta dish is a perfect comfort food recipe for any occasion. Sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and heavy cream come together to create a velvety sauce that coats al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Perfect for a backyard gathering or a quick weeknight meal, these sliders are a twist on classic pulled pork sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce and 2 tablespoons of water.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker. Pour the BBQ mixture over the pork, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Cover the pot or slow cooker and cook for 8 hours or overnight.
5. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Assemble the sliders by placing a generous portion of pulled pork onto each bun, followed by coleslaw and a pickle slice (if using).
Cooking Time: 8 hours or overnight
Pesto Chicken and Veggies
Quick and flavorful, this Pesto Chicken and Veggies dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep. With the bold flavors of pesto, juicy chicken, and colorful veggies, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying and healthy meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and chicken breasts until coated.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Add mixed veggies around the chicken, drizzling with olive oil and seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Beef Stir Fry
This classic Asian-inspired dish is a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender beef with crunchy vegetables and savory teriyaki sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli and bell pepper; cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return beef to pan and stir in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sugar.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Caprese Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
This recipe brings together the classic flavors of Italy’s Caprese salad – fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil – with the comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 1 large tomato, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of mozzarella cheese, a few tomato slices, and some chopped basil leaves.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos
Get ready to elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe! Cilantro lime shrimp tacos are a perfect combination of succulent shrimp, tangy lime juice, and the brightness of fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, sliced radishes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and salt. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, cilantro, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Transform zucchinis into crispy, cheesy fries that are perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice zucchinis into long, thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
3. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each zucchini strip into olive oil, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated zucchini fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional seasonings (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Sausage and Peppers
This hearty one-pan dish combines juicy sausage, crisp peppers, and savory onions for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
7. Return the sausage to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with oregano and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ranch Roasted Potatoes
Ranch Roasted Potatoes Recipe
A flavorful twist on classic roasted potatoes, this recipe combines the richness of ranch seasoning with the simplicity of roasting to create a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 cup ranch seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and ranch seasoning. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Spread potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Lemon Butter Cod
Brighten up your dinner plate with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of lemon with the richness of butter, all wrapped up in a tender cod fillet.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse cod fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the lemon butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of each fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa salad.
Summary
Get dinner on the table quickly with these 18 easy recipes that require just three ingredients! From seafood to poultry, pork to beef, and even vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken, or Honey Soy Glazed Salmon for a protein-packed meal. Or, go for comfort food with Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole or Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops. Whatever your craving, these 3-ingredient recipes are the perfect solution for busy nights.