8 Five-Ingredient Dinner Recipes Anyone Can Make

Cooking dinner doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just five ingredients, you can whip up delicious meals that are quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking to simplify your weeknight cooking, these recipes will have you covered. Let’s get to it!

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? This creamy tomato basil pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. The combination of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a lovely flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

This dish is creamy, tangy, and has a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes. It’s simple to make and comes together in about 20 minutes, so it’s ideal for anyone who wants a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to customize with additional ingredients if you like.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta of choice
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra basil and Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil pasta!

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty dish that brings the flavors of a classic takeout right into your kitchen. The tender beef pairs wonderfully with fresh broccoli and a savory sauce, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to whip up in no time. You’ll love how the combination of savory soy sauce, tender beef, and crisp broccoli creates a delightful taste that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and throw in the minced garlic and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Combine: Return the beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Add the remaining soy sauce and toss everything together for another minute or two until heated through.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus

Lemon garlic shrimp with asparagus is a delightful dish that combines the fresh flavors of seafood and veggies. The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic enhance the natural sweetness of shrimp while perfectly complementing the tender asparagus. This recipe is not only tasty but also incredibly simple to whip up in about 20 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner.

The vibrant colors and flavors make this dish appealing and satisfying. Serve it over rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress, even with just five ingredients!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Asparagus: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the asparagus and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender yet crisp.
2. Add the Shrimp: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, then add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Finish with Lemon: Squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp and asparagus, tossing to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.

One-Pan Chicken Fajitas

One-pan chicken fajitas are a fantastic way to bring bold Mexican flavors to your dinner table with minimal fuss. This simple recipe combines juicy chicken thighs, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all tossed in a smoky blend of spices. It’s quick to prepare and cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

With a mix of savory and slightly sweet notes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. You can serve them in warm tortillas or over rice, and don’t forget your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or sour cream for a delicious finish. Get your taste buds ready for an easy and satisfying meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 2 bell peppers, sliced (any colors)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, bell peppers, onion, fajita seasoning, and olive oil. Toss until everything is well-coated.
3. Spread the mixture evenly in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot in tortillas or over rice, topped with your favorite garnishes.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon

This Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon is the perfect weeknight dinner. It combines the rich flavors of salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze that’s sure to delight your taste buds. The glaze is easy to make and adds a deliciously sticky texture to the fish, making each bite mouthwatering. Plus, it takes only a few minutes to prepare and cook, making it a simple choice for busy evenings.

Pair this salmon with some fresh green beans or a simple salad for a light and healthy meal. The balance of flavors from the honey and mustard complements the richness of the salmon beautifully, making it a hit with both kids and adults. You’ll find yourself making this dish again and again!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey mustard mixture generously over the salmon.
4. Arrange lemon slices on top of the salmon for added flavor.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Spicy Black Bean Tacos

Spicy black bean tacos are a quick and tasty option for anyone looking for a satisfying meal. Packed with flavors from black beans, fresh veggies, and a hint of spice, these tacos are both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for a busy weeknight, they come together in no time and are sure to please everyone at the table.

The combination of creamy avocado, crunchy peppers, and zesty lime brings a refreshing twist to each bite. Plus, you can customize them to your liking, making them a versatile choice for taco night or any casual gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Small tortillas
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans: In a small saucepan, heat the black beans over medium heat until warm. You can add a pinch of salt and a dash of cumin for extra flavor.
2. Warm the Tortillas: While the beans are heating, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
3. Assemble the Tacos: Once the tortillas are warm, place a generous spoonful of black beans in the center of each tortilla. Top with diced bell peppers and slices of avocado.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top and serve with lime wedges for a burst of citrus.
5. Enjoy: Dig in and enjoy your spicy black bean tacos!

Caprese Stuffed Chicken

Caprese Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and simple dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with juicy chicken breasts. The freshness of basil, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the sweetness of ripe tomatoes come together to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor. It’s an easy recipe that anyone can whip up after a long day, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

This dish not only looks impressive but also delivers on taste, making it a favorite for both casual meals and special occasions. With just five ingredients, you can have a delightful dinner on the table in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create pockets for stuffing.
2. Stuff each chicken breast with slices of tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves.
3. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle a little olive oil on top if desired.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
5. Once done, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Vegetable Fried Rice

Vegetable fried rice is a quick and satisfying dish that brings a burst of flavors and colors to your dinner table. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover rice and any vegetables you have on hand, making it a flexible choice for busy weeknights. With a hint of soy sauce and the crunch of fresh veggies, this dish is both comforting and delicious.

This recipe is simple to whip up, requiring just five ingredients, and it can be on your plate in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those nights when you want something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté until they are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
3. Pour in the soy sauce and mix thoroughly, allowing the rice to absorb the flavor.
4. Finally, add the sliced green onions and stir for another minute until heated through. Serve hot!