10 Easy Dinners You Can Make With 5 Ingredients or Less
Let’s be honest — after a long day, no one wants to deal with a complicated dinner or a sink full of dishes. That’s where 5-ingredient dinners come in! These recipes are quick, tasty, and don’t require a mile-long shopping list. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, these 10 easy dinner ideas will save your time and sanity — without sacrificing flavor.
10 Easy Dinners You Can Make With 5 Ingredients
🍝 1. Garlic Butter Spaghetti
Why You’ll Love It:
Simple, buttery, and loaded with garlic — this one is ready in 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti
- Butter
- Garlic (minced)
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt
Tip: Add crushed red pepper for a little kick!
🧀 2. Baked Mac & Cheese
Why You’ll Love It:
Cheesy comfort food at its finest — without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Milk
- Butter
- Salt
Bake: Mix, pour into a dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly.
🥩 3. Honey Soy Glazed Chicken
Why You’ll Love It:
Sweet, savory, and sticky — perfect with rice or veggies.
Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs or breast
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Garlic
- Olive oil
Method: Sauté or bake — either way, it’s delicious and juicy.
🥔 4. Cheesy Baked Potatoes
Why You’ll Love It:
Crispy outside, fluffy inside — this makes a perfect meatless dinner.
Ingredients:
- Russet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Cheddar cheese
- Green onions
- Sour cream
Serve: Load them up or keep it simple — your call.
🍳 5. Breakfast-for-Dinner Egg Sandwiches
Why You’ll Love It:
Fast, satisfying, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- Eggs
- Bread or English muffins
- Cheese
- Butter
- Salt & pepper
Customize: Add ketchup, chili flakes, or even avocado if available.
🌮 6. Easy Beef Tacos
Why You’ll Love It:
Flavorful, flexible, and ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Taco seasoning
- Tortillas
- Shredded lettuce
- Salsa or cheese
Pro Tip: Cook extra and save for lunch the next day!
🍗 7. Sheet Pan Chicken & Veggies
Why You’ll Love It:
One pan, no mess, and full of roasted flavor.
Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs or breasts
- Bell peppers
- Onions
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
Bake: Toss everything together and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes.
🍚 8. Fried Rice (Leftover Friendly!)
Why You’ll Love It:
Budget-friendly and totally customizable.
Ingredients:
- Cooked rice (preferably cold)
- Eggs
- Soy sauce
- Scallions
- Oil
Optional Add: Frozen peas or diced carrots if handy.
🧆 9. Chickpea Curry
Why You’ll Love It:
Rich, comforting, and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
- Canned chickpeas
- Coconut milk
- Curry powder
- Onion
- Garlic
Simmer: 15–20 minutes, and it’s ready to eat with naan or rice.
🧄 10. Creamy Garlic Mushroom Toast
Why You’ll Love It:
Decadent yet simple — perfect for meatless Mondays.
Ingredients:
- Mushrooms (any type)
- Garlic
- Cream or cream cheese
- Bread slices
- Butter or oil
To Serve: Toast the bread, sauté mushrooms, spread and stack. Done!
🥄 Final Bite
Delicious dinners don’t need 15 ingredients or an hour in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and some creativity, you can whip up meals that are quick, flavorful, and satisfying. These 5-ingredient (or less) recipes are proof that simple doesn’t mean boring.
So next time you’re tired, busy, or just not in the mood to cook — come back to this list and make dinner the easiest part of your day.
