50+ Delicious Five-Ingredient Dinner Recipes You Can Make Easy

In today’s fast-paced world, we often find ourselves juggling work, family, and other responsibilities, leaving little time for elaborate meal preparation.

But that doesn’t mean we should sacrifice flavor or nutrition.

Enter the world of five-ingredient dinner recipes—meals that are not only simple and quick to prepare, but also incredibly delicious and satisfying.

These recipes focus on using a small handful of ingredients to create big flavors, making them perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want to spend less time in the kitchen.

Whether you’re craving a savory dish, a hearty meal, or something light and healthy, these easy recipes will help you prepare a meal with minimal effort and maximum taste.

From light salads to comforting pasta dishes and quick stir-fries, we’ve curated a collection of 50+ five-ingredient dinner recipes that promise to be as flavorful as they are easy.

So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the world of simple, satisfying dinners that don’t skimp on taste!

50+ Delicious Five-Ingredient Dinner Recipes You Can Make Easy

Cooking doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious.

With these 50+ five-ingredient dinner recipes, you can enjoy a wide range of tasty meals that require minimal prep and cooking time.

These dishes are perfect for anyone looking to simplify their evening routine without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef looking for quick meals, these recipes will help you create satisfying dinners that the whole family will love.

Next time you’re staring at your fridge with no idea what to make, remember that with just a few ingredients, you can whip up something amazing and flavorful in no time!

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This quick and easy shrimp pasta is perfect for a busy evening. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, coats the pasta beautifully and complements the tender shrimp. With just five ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time.

Ingredients:

• 300g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3 minutes per side.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency. Serve immediately.

Rich and creamy, this garlic shrimp pasta is a delightful dish that’s both luxurious and simple. The garlic-infused sauce balances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a harmony of flavors that feels indulgent yet achievable on any weeknight.

Herbed Lemon Chicken Thighs

This recipe offers tender, juicy chicken thighs with a zesty lemon flavor and aromatic herbs. It’s a wholesome and satisfying dinner that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, until golden and crispy, about 5 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for 2 minutes.
3. Add lemon slices to the skillet and sprinkle the chicken with oregano and thyme.
4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

The combination of lemon and herbs elevates the natural flavor of the chicken, making this dish irresistible. Its simplicity allows the ingredients to shine, offering a fresh, vibrant dinner that pairs well with almost any side.

Cheesy Tomato Baked Ziti

This hearty baked ziti is a comforting dinner that combines cheesy goodness with rich tomato sauce. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 300g ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

This baked ziti is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish with layers of creamy and cheesy textures. The marinara sauce adds depth, while the melted cheese on top creates a golden, irresistible crust. Perfect for an easy yet satisfying dinner.

Honey Mustard Salmon

This honey mustard salmon is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. With only five ingredients, it’s a healthy and delicious dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, and paprika until smooth.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the honey mustard mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables or rice.

The honey mustard glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving the salmon a glossy finish and irresistible flavor. This dish is quick, nutritious, and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments for a complete meal.

Caprese Chicken Skillet

This Caprese chicken skillet is a simple yet elegant dish that features fresh and vibrant flavors. With juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and sweet tomatoes, it’s a Mediterranean-inspired meal ready in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 slices fresh mozzarella
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Return the chicken to the skillet and place a slice of mozzarella on each piece. Cover with a lid and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and tomatoes before serving.

This Caprese chicken skillet brings the freshness of a summer salad into a warm, comforting main dish. The melted mozzarella and tangy balsamic glaze add depth, making it a delightful option for an effortless yet impressive dinner.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

These garlic butter steak bites are bite-sized perfection! Packed with flavor, they’re quick to cook and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides for a satisfying dinner that feels indulgent yet simple.

Ingredients:

• 500g sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce for 1–2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

These garlic butter steak bites are rich, flavorful, and incredibly tender. The buttery sauce coats each piece beautifully, creating a luxurious dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying dinner at home.

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

This lemon herb roasted chicken is full of bright, fresh flavors that make every bite a treat. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs creates a deliciously crispy skin while keeping the chicken juicy on the inside. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with rosemary and garlic powder.
3. Squeeze the juice from the lemon quarters over the chicken and place the squeezed lemon pieces around the legs for extra flavor.
4. Roast in the oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

This lemon herb roasted chicken has an irresistible golden, crispy skin with tender, juicy meat. The fresh lemon adds a tangy brightness, while the rosemary infuses it with a comforting depth. It’s an easy yet elegant dish that will impress everyone at the table.

Pesto Zucchini Noodles

This light and healthy pesto zucchini noodle dish is a fantastic alternative to traditional pasta. With only five ingredients, it’s low-carb, gluten-free, and full of flavor—perfect for a quick, guilt-free dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 1 cup fresh basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
2. Remove from heat and toss the noodles with pesto and lemon juice until well coated.
3. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

These pesto zucchini noodles are refreshing and full of vibrant flavors, making them the perfect light dinner. The pesto brings a rich herbal note, while the zucchini provides a satisfying crunch. It’s a refreshing take on traditional pasta that’s both healthy and indulgent.

One-Pan Baked Sausage and Veggies

This one-pan baked sausage and veggies meal is simple, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. The savory sausages roast perfectly alongside a mix of vegetables, creating a complete dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 4 Italian sausage links
• 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large baking sheet, arrange the sausages, halved potatoes, bell pepper slices, and onion. Drizzle everything with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss the vegetables to coat evenly, then spread them out in an even layer.
4. Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve the sausages and veggies together, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This one-pan baked sausage and veggies dish is flavorful, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. The sausages infuse the vegetables with savory goodness, while the potatoes and peppers become tender and caramelized. It’s the perfect no-fuss dinner for busy nights.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos

These spicy shrimp tacos are packed with flavor and come together in just a few minutes. The shrimp is seasoned with a zesty spice mix, then topped with a simple homemade slaw, creating a refreshing, fiery meal.

Ingredients:

• 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 6 small tortillas

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the spice mix until evenly coated.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
3. While the shrimp is cooking, toss the shredded cabbage with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
5. Assemble the tacos by placing a few shrimp in each tortilla and topping with the cabbage slaw. Serve with lime wedges if desired.

These spicy shrimp tacos are a burst of flavor with a perfect balance of heat and crunch from the cabbage. The shrimp cook quickly, making this an ideal dish for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fresh and satisfying.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

These garlic parmesan roasted potatoes are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, this side dish can elevate any main course, making it a perfect addition to dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium potatoes, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the potatoes evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Return to the oven for 2–3 more minutes to melt the cheese.
5. Serve warm with a garnish of fresh herbs if desired.

These garlic parmesan roasted potatoes are a crowd-pleaser, offering rich, savory flavors in every bite. The crispy edges and soft centers make them an irresistible side dish, perfect for pairing with chicken, steak, or even as a snack.

Vegetarian Stir-Fry

This vegetarian stir-fry is an easy, colorful dish loaded with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce. It’s quick to prepare and can be served over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s healthy and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli, and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Pour the soy sauce over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

This vegetarian stir-fry is both healthy and packed with vibrant flavors. The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil creates a savory sauce that perfectly complements the crisp-tender vegetables. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy nights or a light dinner option.

Baked Lemon Garlic Tilapia

This baked lemon garlic tilapia is a light and refreshing dinner that’s full of flavor. The combination of fresh lemon and garlic brings out the delicate taste of the fish, making it an easy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Sprinkle minced garlic and dried parsley over the fillets, and arrange lemon slices on top.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve immediately with steamed vegetables or a side salad.

This baked lemon garlic tilapia is a simple yet flavorful dish. The lemon adds a fresh, zesty kick, while the garlic infuses the fish with savory depth. It’s a light dinner that’s quick to prepare and perfect for those who want a healthy, delicious meal in no time.

Vegetable Frittata

This vegetable frittata is an easy, protein-packed meal perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With just a few ingredients, it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables and make a flavorful, satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the bell pepper and spinach, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, then pour over the vegetables in the skillet.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
6. Slice and serve immediately.

This vegetable frittata is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s incredibly versatile. You can swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand, making it a perfect way to clear out your fridge. The combination of eggs and cheese creates a rich, comforting texture that everyone will enjoy.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic, quick dinner that’s full of savory flavors. The tender beef and crisp broccoli are coated in a simple yet delicious sauce, making it a satisfying and healthy meal.

Ingredients:

• 300g beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the broccoli and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Return the beef to the skillet and add the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Toss to coat evenly and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Serve hot, ideally over steamed rice or noodles.

This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The savory sauce coats the beef and vegetables beautifully, creating a simple yet delicious meal that’s full of flavor and texture.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!