Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience when it comes to dinner? You’re not alone. With our busy schedules, it can be tempting to reach for takeout or fast food every night. But what if you could have the best of both worlds – delicious, restaurant-quality meals without the hassle and expense?
Introducing our collection of 20 quick and easy recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes will satisfy your cravings without requiring a Ph.D. in cooking. Whether you’re a parent looking for a quick and healthy meal option or a college student seeking a meal solution that won’t break the bank, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 fast food recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic cheeseburgers to international-inspired dishes like fish tacos and teriyaki chicken bowls, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Homemade Cheeseburger Sliders
Elevate your backyard barbecue or game-day gathering with these bite-sized cheeseburger sliders, packed with flavor and fun. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll be serving up a crowd-pleasing favorite in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 hamburger buns (sliders)
– 4 slices cheddar cheese, divided
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other favorite toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8-10 small patties (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Grill patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by a slice of cheese and toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Say goodbye to greasy fried chicken and hello to crispy, juicy air-fried nuggets!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the egg and then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, shaking halfway through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Loaded Nachos Supreme
Quick Loaded Nachos Supreme Recipe
Looking for a snack that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further! This recipe for Quick Loaded Nachos Supreme is a game-changer, loaded with cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chips.
4. Top with black beans, cilantro, and jalapeño slices.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Speedy Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
Get ready for a flavorful and refreshing meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the simplicity of fish tacos with the brightness of lime crema, making it perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below for recipe)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño.
3. Dip fish pieces into breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing fish onto tortillas, topping with lime crema, radishes, and cilantro.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Simple Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas
Transform your love of pizza into a delicious and easy-to-make quesadilla! This recipe combines the flavors of pepperoni, cheese, and pizza sauce with the convenience of a quesadilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of pepperoni
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
3. Arrange 2-3 slices of pepperoni on half of the tortilla.
4. Drizzle pizza sauce over the pepperoni.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make pepperoni pizza quesadillas!
Fast Beef and Cheese Empanadas
These savory pastries are a delicious and convenient snack or meal solution. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have these mouthwatering empanadas ready to go in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the cooked beef mixture and shredded cheese.
5. Roll out the empanada dough to desired thickness. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the beef-cheese mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chili Cheese Fries
Instant Pot Chili Cheese Fries Recipe: A Twist on a Classic Favorite!
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering Instant Pot recipe that combines the perfect blend of spicy chili, gooey cheese, and crispy fries.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen french fries
– 1 can of chili (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the frozen fries to the Instant Pot with 1 tablespoon of water.
2. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release.
3. In a separate pot, heat the chili over medium heat until warm.
4. Add the shredded cheese, milk, and butter to the warmed chili. Stir until smooth.
5. Pour the chili mixture into the Instant Pot with the cooked fries.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes, followed by a quick release.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes.
Rapid Buffalo Chicken Wraps
These spicy, savory wraps are a perfect combination of flavors and textures, ready in no time! A twist on traditional buffalo chicken, this recipe brings together crispy tortillas, juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, Buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing.
3. Slice the chicken mixture into thin strips.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by placing 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on each tortilla, followed by 2-3 pieces of chicken, some celery, and cilantro.
6. Fold tortillas to enclose fillings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Speedy Sausage and Egg McMuffins
Quickly satisfy your morning cravings with this simple recipe that mimics the classic fast food favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 English muffins
– 8 sausage patties (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the sausage patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Crack in an egg and scramble until cooked to your liking.
4. Meanwhile, toast the English muffins by grilling them in the skillet with the sausage patties for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble the McMuffins by placing a toasted English muffin half, a sausage patty, a fried egg, and a sprinkle of cheese.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Fast Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches
Get a taste of Philadelphia’s iconic cheesesteak sandwiches without leaving your kitchen! These fast and flavorful sandwiches are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 slices of American cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, butter the hoagie rolls and toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the grilled steak on the toasted rolls, followed by a few slices of onion and a slice of American cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional sliders with this quick and easy recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiches in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid. Pour the BBQ mixture over the pork.
4. Cover the pot and bake for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with any remaining juices.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast.
7. Assemble sliders by spooning shredded pork onto the buns and topping with coleslaw and pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Easy Crispy Onion Rings
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this simple recipe for crispy onion rings that are perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and a quick cooking time, you’ll be enjoying crunchy, flavorful bites in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each onion ring into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry onion rings in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Taco Bell-Style Crunchwraps
Get your Crunchwrap fix at home with this simple recipe! This copycat version of the classic Taco Bell menu item is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese blend (Cheddar and Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.
2. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble Crunchwraps by spreading a spoonful of seasoned beef onto each tortilla, followed by cheese, black beans, and diced tomatoes.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a tight cylinder.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fast Garlic Parmesan Fries
Elevate your snack game with this quick and delicious recipe that combines the comfort of fries with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a plate of crispy, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen french fries
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the frozen fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the fries, followed by sprinkling the minced garlic and grated parmesan cheese evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the fries are crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Speedy Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Quickly satisfy your cravings with this flavorful and nutritious recipe. Ready in under 30 minutes, these bowls are perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and vegetable oil.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes or up to 30 minutes.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the marinated chicken breasts on it.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook mixed veggies according to package instructions.
7. Serve chicken over brown rice with roasted veggies and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Bacon Double Cheeseburgers
Get ready to elevate your burger game with this quick and delicious recipe that combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and juicy beef. In just a few minutes, you’ll be enjoying a mouth-watering treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the bacon slices for 4-5 minutes per side, or until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
3. Form the ground beef into 8 patties. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble the burgers by spreading butter on the bottom bun, followed by a patty, two slices of bacon, and one-quarter cup shredded cheese. Top with another bun.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara
Transform your snack game with this simple recipe that yields crispy, cheesy mozzarella sticks served with a tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each mozzarella stick into the beaten egg and then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dredge the coated sticks in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the sticks until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Place the fried mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to crisp up.
7. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Elevate your lunch game with this easy-to-make spicy chicken sandwich recipe that’s packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce
– Tomato
– Mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a grilled chicken breast on each bun, then topping with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fast Loaded Potato Skins
Satisfy your cravings with these mouthwatering loaded potato skins that can be ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and poke the potatoes with a fork.
3. Microwave each potato for 3-4 minutes or until slightly softened.
4. Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/8 inch thick walls.
5. In a bowl, mix together cheese, bacon, bell pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Stuff each potato skin with the mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Speedy Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders
Get a flavor boost with these speedy honey mustard chicken tenders that are perfect for a weeknight dinner or snack. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Add chicken strips and toss until coated.
3. Drizzle olive oil on the baking sheet and arrange chicken tenders in a single layer.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a culinary rescue with these 20 quick fast food recipes! From classic cheeseburgers to loaded nachos, and from chicken tenders to crispy onion rings, this list has got you covered for busy nights. With a mix of familiar favorites and creative twists, these recipes are designed to be made in no time at all. Whether you’re craving something savory, sweet, or spicy, there’s something on this list that’s sure to hit the spot.
Leave a Reply