Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, only to end up with a mediocre meal that fails to impress? We’ve got good news for you! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 easy and delicious recipes that can be made with just 6 ingredients or less. That’s right – no matter how busy your weeknights get, these simple yet satisfying dishes will have you covered.
From quick and easy main courses to healthy snacks and desserts, our collection of 6-ingredient recipes is designed to make cooking a breeze, even for the most novice of cooks. And the best part? Every single one of these recipes requires fewer than 7 ingredients – that’s it!
So whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or just need some inspiration for your next meal, keep reading to discover our top 18 picks and get cooking!
6-Ingredient Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and a hint of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Simple 6-Ingredient Chicken Alfredo
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to eat. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick 6-Ingredient Pasta Primavera
Quick 6-Ingredient Pasta Primavera Recipe
In this recipe, we’ll whip up a delicious and flavorful pasta dish using just six ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, this primavera is sure to please!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz. pasta of your choice
- 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and carrots)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add mixed spring vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
- Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
6-Ingredient Honey Glazed Salmon
Sweeten up your dinner routine with this simple and flavorful salmon recipe, featuring a honey glaze that adds a touch of warmth and depth to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar until smooth.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy 6-Ingredient Beef Tacos
Quickly satisfy your taco cravings with this effortless recipe that requires just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese and a few diced tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
6-Ingredient Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this bright and citrusy roasted chicken recipe, infused with the warmth of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3.5 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
6-Ingredient Creamy Tomato Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy tomato soup, made with just six ingredients! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
6-Ingredient Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of creamy spinach and tangy feta cheese with juicy chicken breasts for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
6-Ingredient Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Get ready to enjoy a comforting and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion! This 6-Ingredient Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheddar cheese and milk until smooth.
4. Add the cheese mixture to the rice mixture and stir until everything is fully incorporated.
5. Pour the casserole into a 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with dried thyme.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
6-Ingredient One-Pot Chili
In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and hearty chili on the table with this simple recipe. This 6-ingredient one-pot wonder is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced green chilies
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced green chilies, and chili powder. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the water and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
6-Ingredient Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Elevate your snack game with this easy and healthier take on traditional fries. This recipe transforms zucchinis into crispy, cheesy bites that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into fry shapes.
3. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder.
4. Dip each zucchini fry into the cheese mixture, coating evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the coated fries in a single layer.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
6-Ingredient Avocado Lime Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the tenderness of cooked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken breast, mashed avocado, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the top and toss until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the mixed greens among individual plates or a serving platter.
5. Spoon the chicken-avocado mixture on top of the greens.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
6-Ingredient Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
A flavorful twist on traditional burgers, these sweet potato black bean patties are packed with nutritious ingredients and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, black beans, oats, and cumin. Mix well until a cohesive mixture forms.
2. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
6-Ingredient Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a delicious and comforting bowl of cinnamon apple oatmeal, made with just 6 ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 medium apple, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Add the diced apple and honey to the oatmeal. Stir until well combined.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the apple is tender.
5. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as chopped nuts, fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
6-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these gooey and delicious cookie bars, packed with semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and brown sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6-Ingredient Blueberry Lemon Muffins
These sweet and tangy muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. With only six ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and lemon juice to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
4. Gently fold in blueberries.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
6-Ingredient No-Bake Cheesecake Bites
These bite-sized treats are a perfect solution for hot summer days when you don’t want to spend time baking. With just six ingredients, you can quickly whip up a batch of creamy, cheesecakey goodness that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup cream cheese softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in the whipped cream until well combined with the cream cheese mixture.
4. Spoon the mixture into mini muffin liners or small cups, filling each about 3/4 of the way full.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake bites to set.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bites are ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious recipes to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 18 easy-to-make dishes that require only 6 ingredients or less. From savory options like Garlic Butter Shrimp and Beef Tacos, to sweet treats like Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars and Blueberry Lemon Muffins, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is simple to follow and can be prepared in no time, making them perfect for hectic evenings when you need a meal that’s just as quick as it is tasty.
