I get it. Life gets busy…
The kids need a last-minute ride to practice, the inlaws are making a surprise trip to town, and you still have three loads of laundry piled up in the laundry room.
And when things get a little crazy, planning and making dinner just adds to the stress.
That’s why I do my best to incorporate easy and quick recipes into my weeknight meal lineup. It takes a huge weight off my shoulders!
So if you’re feeling that weight as well, you’ll have to check out these simple recipes below.
The Best 5-Ingredient Meals To Make at Home
Take some stress off your plate by plating up these delicious, simple and affordable meals.
Crockpot Shredded Chicken
The versatile nature of shredded chicken is unmatched.
You can use it in tacos, on pizza, in pasta or wherever you see fit!
Not only is this crockpot recipe super simple, it makes SO much so you can eat it for multiple meals throughout the week.
Give it a try HERE.
5-Ingredient Basil Chicken Pasta
The Good Cook’s Basil Chicken Pasta looks like one of those recipes that will please everyone at the table.
After pairing your favorite pasta with the chicken, you’ll toss everything in a rich, creamy sauce.
Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut in half)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 pound pasta of choice
- Fresh, sliced basil
When cooking, you’ll season everything with Italian seasoning, pepper, salt, onion seasoning and garlic. Find the full recipe and instructions HERE.
Sausage Egg Bake
Who says eggs need to be saved for breakfast? This recipe from Taste of Home is hearty and extremely easy to prepare.
You can even make some substitutions depending on your cheese or meat preference.
Here are the ingredients:
- 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
- 2 cans condensed cream of potato soup, undiluted
- 9 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup 2% milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For more instructions, you can find the recipe HERE. And don’t forget to season with some cracked pepper!
Related: Roasted Veggies and Ham Quiche
Pesto Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Another great thing about 5 ingredient meals is that they’re typically pretty affordable.
This recipe for chicken-stuffed peppers from Layers of Happiness includes easy-to-find ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Take a look at what you’ll need:
- 6 red, orange, or yellow bell peppers
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 1/2 cups Mozzarella cheese, divided and shredded
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 6.25-ounce jar of pesto sauce
Emily (the chef behind this delicious dish) also says you can use rotisserie chicken. Even easier! You can find all of her notes HERE.
Related: Southwestern Rice Bake
5-Ingredient Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
I’ve added a few 5-ingredient meals with chicken, so I figured I’d share a seafood one!
The Seasoned Mom’s Parmesan Crusted Tilapia is primarily made with pantry staples. And since you can keep the fish in the freezer until you’re ready, it’s great for those super rushed evenings.
Here’s a list of ingredients:
- 4 8-ounce tilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
To get all of the info you need, you can check out the full recipe HERE. Pair the fish with cornbread, a salad, rolls or rice for a delicious weeknight meal!
Bonus Recipe! 3-Ingredient Chili 5-ingredient meals
Great for tailgates or chilly evenings, this super simple chili recipe from Yellow Bliss Road is the perfect recipe for fall.
Plus, it only contains 3 ingredients!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes with chili peppers
- 15-ounce can of chili beans, not drained
This provides a great base for a filling, hearty chili. But if you want more flavor, you can always add onions, more veggies, spices, or other types of beans. And don’t forget to top it with sour cream and cheese.
Find all of the instructions you’ll need HERE.
Related: Slow Cooker 3-Bean Chili
Whether you’re a busy mom or you have a schedule packed with daily to-dos, I hope these 5-ingredient meals will make your life easier!
From my kitchen to yours,
Jill
