Cooking dinner can sometimes feel like a chore, especially after a long day. I created this post because I know many of you are looking for a way to make dinner more enjoyable without spending hours in the kitchen. When the clock is ticking and you’re tired, the last thing you want is to sift through complicated recipes. That’s why I’ve put together a list of 12 easy dinner recipes that require 5 ingredients or fewer.
If you’re someone who appreciates quick and delicious meals, you’re in for a treat. These recipes are not just simple; they are also low-carb and satisfying. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip these up. In fact, you’ll likely be surprised at how flavorful and filling these dishes can be with minimal effort. You’ll find a variety of options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re craving something hearty or light, there’s something here for everyone.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a collection of easy dinner recipes that fit perfectly into your busy lifestyle. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to home-cooked meals that will leave you feeling great. Let’s dive in and explore these simple yet delicious dinner ideas!
Key Takeaways
– Each recipe on the list contains 5 ingredients or fewer, making meal prep quick and easy.
– The meals are designed to be low-carb, perfect for those looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
– These recipes cater to various preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone, from meat lovers to vegetarians.
– You’ll find that cooking with fewer ingredients can still yield satisfying and hearty dishes.
– The collection encourages you to switch up your dinner routine and enjoy the process of cooking at home.
Contents
- 1. Herb Roasted Chicken
- 2. Zucchini Noodles with Marinara Sauce
- 3. Garlic Butter Shrimp
- 4. Caprese Salad with Grilled Chicken
- 5. Avocado Egg Salad
- 6. Spicy Sausage Stir-Fry
- 7. Cabbage Roll Casserole
- 8. Beef Lettuce Wraps
- 9. Lemon Garlic Asparagus
- 10. Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Skillet
- 11. Coconut Curry Chicken
- 12. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
1. Herb Roasted Chicken
Craving a hearty meal that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? This herb roasted chicken fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma and offers a delightful taste experience. With just five simple ingredients—chicken, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon—you’ll enjoy a dish that’s low in carbs yet high in deliciousness.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rub the chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary, followed by a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper, then roast until golden brown and fully cooked. Serve alongside steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.
For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the herb mixture for about an hour before cooking.
Ingredients:
– 4 chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture over the chicken thighs.
4. Place chicken in a baking dish and roast for 45 minutes or until juices run clear.
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breasts instead? Yes, just adjust the cooking time since chicken breasts may cook faster.
2. Zucchini Noodles with Marinara Sauce
Looking for a fresh, low-carb meal that’s quick to whip up? Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, are a fantastic alternative to traditional pasta, soaking up flavors beautifully. This dish features zoodles topped with a simple marinara sauce made from just three ingredients: canned tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
To prepare, spiralize two medium zucchinis into noodle shapes. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add canned tomatoes and Italian herbs. Allow it to simmer for about five minutes before tossing in the zoodles. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the zoodles are tender but still have a bite.
If you don’t have a spiralizer, a julienne peeler works just fine!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Use a spiralizer to create zoodles from the zucchinis.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Toss in zoodles and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I add meat to this dish? Absolutely! Cooked ground meat can be added for extra protein.
3. Garlic Butter Shrimp
Want a quick dinner that feels indulgent? Garlic butter shrimp is your answer! This dish features succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, making it a delightful choice for seafood lovers. You only need shrimp, butter, garlic, lemon, and parsley to create this mouthwatering meal.
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, add minced garlic until aromatic, then toss in the shrimp. Cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley for flavor. Serve over a bed of spinach or alongside cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
For a satisfying bite, consider using large shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Toss in the shrimp; cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove from heat, squeeze lemon juice, and add parsley.
5. Serve immediately.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
4. Caprese Salad with Grilled Chicken
Seeking a light yet filling meal? This Caprese salad with grilled chicken is the perfect solution. Juicy grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes come together with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an explosion of flavor. Just a few simple ingredients create a delightful low-carb dish that’s easy to prepare.
Start by grilling chicken breasts until cooked through. Slice tomatoes and mozzarella into thick rounds. Layer tomatoes and mozzarella on a plate, then top with sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the top, finishing with fresh basil for an elegant touch.
For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian herbs beforehand.
Ingredients:
– 2 chicken breasts
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella
– 2 large tomatoes
– Balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Grill chicken breasts until fully cooked.
2. Slice mozzarella and tomatoes.
3. Layer tomatoes, mozzarella, and chicken on a plate.
4. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze? Yes, that works great as a time-saver!
5. Avocado Egg Salad
Craving a creamy yet healthy dish? Avocado egg salad is a perfect choice for a light dinner or lunch. By swapping traditional mayo for creamy avocado, you not only keep it low-carb but also add healthy fats. Made with boiled eggs, avocado, lime, and salt, it’s a delightful twist on a classic.
Begin by boiling eggs until hard-boiled, about 10 minutes. Once cooled, peel and chop the eggs, then mash them with ripe avocado and lime juice for zing. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve on lettuce leaves or low-carb bread for a satisfying meal.
For extra flavor, consider mixing in diced onions or cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 4 hard-boiled eggs
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves for serving
Instructions:
1. Boil eggs for 10 minutes; cool and peel.
2. Chop eggs and mash in a bowl with avocado and lime juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve on lettuce leaves or low-carb bread.
FAQs:
– How long does this keep in the fridge? It stays fresh for 2-3 days in an airtight container.
6. Spicy Sausage Stir-Fry
Need a quick and flavorful dinner option? This spicy sausage stir-fry is a fantastic choice, packed with vibrant flavors and textures. Using just sausage, bell peppers, onion, olive oil, and spices, this dish comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Start by slicing your favorite sausage and heating olive oil in a large skillet. Toss in sliced bell peppers and onions, sautéing them until tender. Add the sausage along with your choice of spices, like paprika or red pepper flakes, and cook until everything is crisp and flavorful.
For a milder version, you can choose sweet Italian sausage instead.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Your choice of spices (paprika, red pepper flakes, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
2. Add sliced onions and bell peppers; cook until tender.
3. Stir in sliced sausage and spices.
4. Cook until everything is browned and crispy.
5. Serve hot.
FAQs:
– Can I use turkey sausage? Yes, it’s a great lower-fat option!
7. Cabbage Roll Casserole
Looking for a comforting family meal? Cabbage roll casserole is a one-pan dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Packed with flavor and made with just ground beef, cabbage, diced tomatoes, onion, and optional rice for a low-carb version, it’s a delicious dinner idea.
Begin by browning the ground beef with diced onions until fully cooked. Add chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, and seasonings, stirring everything together. Simmer on low until the cabbage is tender and has absorbed all the flavors. This hearty casserole can be enjoyed on its own or topped with grated cheese for that extra indulgence.
If you’re aiming to reduce carbs, skip the rice and increase the cabbage instead.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef with onions in a large skillet.
2. Add chopped cabbage and canned tomatoes.
3. Stir and simmer on low until cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, it stores well and can be reheated.
8. Beef Lettuce Wraps
Desiring a fun and interactive dinner? Beef lettuce wraps are a healthy and delicious option that encourages creativity at the table. Using ground beef, lettuce leaves, and a few seasonings, this recipe offers a fresh take on a low-carb meal that’s easily customizable.
Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet until browned, then drain any excess fat. Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for an extra flavor kick. Serve the tasty beef mixture wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves like bibb or romaine, and top with shredded carrots or sesame seeds for added crunch.
You can also mix in diced bell peppers to enhance color and nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– Lettuce leaves (bibb or romaine)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned.
2. Drain excess fat and add soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Stir to combine and let it cook for an additional minute.
4. Serve wrapped in lettuce leaves with optional toppings.
FAQs:
– Can I use ground turkey instead? Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative.
9. Lemon Garlic Asparagus
In need of a quick and refreshing side dish? Lemon garlic asparagus pairs perfectly with any main course and is incredibly easy to make. This simple recipe requires only asparagus, olive oil, garlic, lemon, and salt, making it a fantastic low-carb choice.
To prepare, trim the ends of the asparagus and toss them in olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Roast in the oven or sauté in a pan until tender yet crisp. The bright, zesty flavors from the lemon and garlic elevate this dish, making it a favorite even among veggie skeptics.
For an extra touch, sprinkle with parmesan cheese right before serving.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet.
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Roast in the oven for 10 minutes or sauté until tender.
4. Serve warm, optionally topped with parmesan cheese.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen asparagus? Fresh asparagus is preferred, but you can use frozen if that’s what you have.
How To Choose Easy Dinner Recipes
Choosing easy dinner recipes can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re looking for meals that are quick to prepare and satisfying. To help you find the perfect low-carb recipes with five ingredients or fewer, consider the following selection criteria.
1. Ingredient Simplicity
Start with recipes that require minimal ingredients. Look for meals that use pantry staples, fresh produce, or proteins you already have at home. This not only saves time but also cuts down on grocery shopping. You’ll be amazed at how delicious meals can be with just a few quality ingredients!
2. Cooking Method
Think about how much time you want to spend cooking. Are you looking for a quick sauté, a simple roast, or a one-pan meal? Recipes that can be made in a single pot or pan often mean less clean-up too! Choosing the right cooking method can make your dinner prep faster and more enjoyable.
3. Flavor Profiles
Select recipes based on the flavors you enjoy. Do you love Italian, Asian, or Mediterranean cuisine? A Caprese salad with grilled chicken can satisfy your Italian cravings, while garlic butter shrimp brings a taste of the sea to your plate. Finding recipes that excite your palate will make cooking feel less like a chore.
4. Nutritional Needs
Keep your dietary needs in mind. If you’re following a low-carb diet, make sure to check that your chosen recipes align with your nutrition goals. Recipes like beef lettuce wraps and creamy spinach and mushroom skillet fit the bill perfectly while still being satisfying.
5. Cooking Time
How much time do you have for dinner prep? If you’re in a hurry, look for meals that can be completed in 30 minutes or less. Dishes like spicy sausage stir-fry or zucchini noodles with marinara sauce are not only quick but also easy to make on a busy weeknight.
6. Leftover Potential
Consider recipes that make great leftovers. Dishes like cabbage roll casserole or cheesy broccoli casserole can be easily reheated for lunch the next day. Choosing meals that offer leftover potential can save you cooking time later in the week!
Pro Tip: Always keep your kitchen stocked with versatile ingredients like eggs, chicken, zucchini, and fresh herbs. This way, you can whip up easy dinner recipes whenever you need them, with little effort.
When you apply these selection criteria, finding easy dinner recipes that are low-carb and satisfying becomes a fun and creative task. Focus on what you enjoy and what fits your lifestyle. Happy cooking!
10. Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Skillet
Craving a comforting vegetarian dish? Creamy spinach and mushroom skillet is packed with flavor and can be ready in under 30 minutes. With just spinach, mushrooms, cream cheese, garlic, and parmesan, it’s a fantastic side or main course that sneaks in some greens.
Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms and minced garlic in a skillet until golden. Add fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt down, then stir in cream cheese and grated parmesan until creamy and smooth. This dish is perfect served alongside grilled meats or as a filling topping for cauliflower rice.
For a spicy kick, consider adding crushed red pepper.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 4 cups fresh spinach
– 4 oz cream cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic until golden.
2. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Stir in cream cheese and parmesan until creamy.
4. Serve warm.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen spinach? Yes! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water.
11. Coconut Curry Chicken
Craving something warm and aromatic? Coconut curry chicken is a dish that transports you to a tropical paradise. With just chicken, coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, and ginger, this recipe is low in carbs and bursting with rich flavors, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent.
To make, start by cooking diced chicken in a skillet until browned. Add minced garlic and ginger for depth, then stir in coconut milk and curry powder. Let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through and tender. This dish is excellent served over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed veggies.
For a fresh finish, garnish with cilantro or a squeeze of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Instructions:
1. Cook diced chicken in a skillet until browned.
2. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in coconut milk and curry powder; simmer until chicken is cooked.
4. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro or lime.
FAQs:
– Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, just reduce the cooking time to warm through.
12. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Looking for a comforting dish that the entire family will love? Cheesy broccoli casserole is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s incredibly satisfying. With just broccoli, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic, and butter, it’s a low-carb dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
To prepare, start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then mix with softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and shredded cheddar. Pour into a greased baking dish and top with more cheese before baking until bubbly and golden. This casserole can be a fantastic side dish or the main event all on its own.
Feel free to add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz cream cheese
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes and drain.
3. In a bowl, combine broccoli, cream cheese, garlic, and cheddar.
4. Pour into a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Serve warm.
FAQs:
– Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, just store it in the fridge before baking.
Conclusion
These easy dinner recipes are all about simplicity, flavor, and low-carb goodness. Each dish offers a unique take on dinner while keeping your ingredients list minimal. The best part is that they’re satisfying meals the whole family will enjoy!
Whether you’re pressed for time or just looking for something quick and delicious, these recipes will surely become favorites in your home. Give them a try, and uplift your dinner game tonight!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are easy dinner recipes with 5 ingredients or fewer?
These simple dinners prove you don’t need a long ingredient list to get great flavor.
Focus on 4-5 ingredient combos that are low-carb and satisfying. For example: salmon + asparagus + olive oil + lemon + dill; chicken + broccoli + garlic + butter + parmesan; or eggs + spinach + feta + tomato + olive oil. All you need for weeknights.
Are these 5-ingredient dinners really low-carb and satisfying?
Yes. By design, these meals emphasize protein, vegetables, and healthy fats, which keeps carbs in check and helps you feel full.
A typical 5-ingredient combo like salmon + broccoli + olive oil + garlic + lemon can be both low-carb and satisfying. To stay full, choose a protein and veggie and add a flavorful fat, then keep the total ingredients to five or fewer.
Can I meal prep these 5-ingredient dinners for the week?
Absolutely. Batch-cook the protein, pre-cut the vegetables, and store everything in airtight containers.
Roast or sauté the components in advance, then reheat and finish with a quick drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon to keep flavors bright. This keeps easy dinner recipes convenient on busy weeknights while staying low-carb and satisfying.
How can I adapt these 5-ingredient dinners for gluten-free or dairy-free diets?
Great question. You can easily adapt while preserving the 5-ingredient limit. Use gluten-free sauces or tamari instead of soy, swap dairy like cheese or butter for dairy-free options, and rely on herbs, citrus, and olive oil for flavor. The goal is to keep it low-carb and satisfying with simple swaps and smart ingredient choices.
What pantry staples help these 5-ingredient meals stay flavorful?
Stock up on a few flavor-boosters: olive oil, garlic, lemon, and a couple of dried herbs or spices (like red pepper flakes or oregano). Keep a can of tomatoes or coconut milk handy, plus salt and pepper. With these on hand, you can elevate any 5-ingredient dinner into a tasty, easy dinner recipes that feel satisfying.
