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    Home » Trending

    When I don’t feel like cooking, I make one of these easy meals

    Published: Nov 2, 2025 by Kristen Wood · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    No time, no energy, no problem! These easy meals fix everything fast. The effort is low, but the taste? Too good to skip. This is the ultimate lazy-day kitchen hack!

    Sticky Maple Ginger Tofu Noodle Bowl

    Sticky Maple Ginger Tofu Noodle Bowl. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    When the mood to cook just isn’t there, dinner still feels doable with Sticky Maple Ginger Tofu Noodle Bowl. It comes together fast and tastes like real effort went into it. Easy cleanup makes it even better after a long day.
    Get the Recipe: Sticky Maple Ginger Tofu Noodle Bowl

    Paccheri al Forno

    An overhead image of paccheri al forno in a pyrex glass dish.
    Paccheri al Forno. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

    When comfort is the goal but time is short, Paccheri al Forno makes things simple. It feels like a weekend dish even on a weekday. Perfect for nights when cooking sounds like too much work.
    Get the Recipe: Paccheri al Forno

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    Instant Pot Sticky Maple Ginger Rice Noodles

    Instant Pot Sticky Maple Ginger Rice Noodles. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    When energy runs low, Instant Pot Sticky Maple Ginger Rice Noodles get dinner done fast. The texture and flavor hit the mark with almost no effort. Great for skipping takeout and saving time.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Sticky Maple Ginger Rice Noodles

    Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

    A close up view of spaghetti squash lasagna placed in a baking dish.
    Spaghetti Squash Lasagna. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

    When a heavy meal sounds like too much, Spaghetti Squash Lasagna keeps things light but still filling. It feels homemade without the hassle. A smart pick for nights when cooking just isn’t happening.
    Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

    Instant Pot Butternut Squash Curry

    Instant Pot Butternut Squash Curry. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    When time is tight, Instant Pot Butternut Squash Curry handles the hard part. It’s simple, cozy, and ready before you know it. Perfect for relaxing while dinner takes care of itself.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Butternut Squash Curry

    Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

    An overhead image of gochujang tofu rice bowl with chopsticks on the side.
    Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

    When flavor is needed fast, Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu keeps things exciting. It wakes up the dinner routine without taking all night. A go-to for quick, low-effort meals that hit hard.
    Get the Recipe: Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

    Vegan Meatloaf

    Vegan Meatloaf. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    When meat-free meals sound good but time is short, Vegan Meatloaf fits the plan. It’s hearty, simple, and ready to slice in minutes. Perfect for lazy nights that still call for real food.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan Meatloaf

    Spicy Vodka Pasta

    An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
    Spicy Vodka Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

    When quick comfort is the goal, Spicy Vodka Pasta gets the job done fast. It’s creamy, bold, and perfect for low-effort nights. A crowd-pleaser that feels like takeout at home.
    Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

    Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

    Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    When cleanup sounds worse than cooking, Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta saves the night. Everything happens in one pot for an easy win. Simple, quick, and made for tired evenings.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

    Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

    An overhead image of microwave mac and cheese in a bowl with a spoon.
    Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

    When dinner needs to happen instantly, Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese is the answer. It’s fast, creamy, and made without turning on the stove. The ultimate comfort move for no-cook nights.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese

    Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

    Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    When the day’s too busy for cooking, Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup handles it quietly. It’s hearty, hands-off, and ready when you are. Dinner doesn’t get easier than this.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup

    Gochujang Chicken

    Gochujang chicken on a platter with fresh herbs.
    Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    When plain meals feel boring, Gochujang Chicken brings a quick fix. It’s fast, flavorful, and far from routine. Great for nights when you want something with energy but no extra effort.
    Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

    Irish Tacos

    Irish Tacos. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    When a fun dinner idea is needed, Irish Tacos hit the mark with zero stress. They’re easy to put together and feel fresh every time. Perfect for casual nights that still need a little spark.
    Get the Recipe: Irish Tacos

    Harissa Chicken

    Harissa chicken in a baking pan with a plate of it over rice with yogurt and herbs on the side.
    Harissa Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    When the plan is quick but bold, Harissa Chicken makes it happen. It’s fast to prep and packed with flavor that keeps things interesting. Perfect for low-effort dinners that don’t feel lazy.
    Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken

    Slow Cooker Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops

    Slow Cooker Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    When time’s short but flavor still matters, Slow Cooker Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops step in. The slow cooker does all the work while you do anything else. Dinner turns out easy and hands-off.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Sriracha Honey Garlic Pork Chops

    Gochujang Noodles

    Low angle shot of gochujang noodles with greens, mushrooms, and cheese on a grey and white plate.
    Gochujang Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    When energy is gone, Gochujang Noodles make dinner happen anyway. They’re fast, full of flavor, and way better than takeout. Perfect for nights when simplicity wins.
    Get the Recipe: Gochujang Noodles

    Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts

    Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    When cooking feels like a chore, Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts make it simple. Crispy outside and juicy inside, they’re done before you know it. Ideal for easy nights with big flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken Breasts

    Air Fryer Turkey Legs

    Roasted turkey legs on a cutting board with a knife.
    Air Fryer Turkey Legs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    When the oven stays off, Air Fryer Turkey Legs keep dinner moving. The air fryer makes them quick, juicy, and stress-free. Great for easy meals that still feel hearty.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Legs

    One Pot Italian Sausage Pasta

    One Pot Italian Sausage Pasta. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

    When time’s running out, One Pot Italian Sausage Pasta keeps dinner on track. Everything cooks together with almost no cleanup. Great for nights when you want easy comfort fast.
    Get the Recipe: One Pot Italian Sausage Pasta

    Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake

    Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake. Photo credit: xoxobella.

    When the day runs long, Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake brings the fun to dinner. It’s hearty, simple, and perfect for feeding everyone without effort. A no-stress win on any weeknight.
    Get the Recipe: Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake

    Pad Kee Mao with Chicken

    A bowl of pad kee mao with chicken shot from above.
    Pad Kee Mao with Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    When takeout sounds tempting, Pad Kee Mao with Chicken is faster and easier. It’s packed with flavor and ready in minutes. Perfect for staying in and still getting that crave-worthy meal.
    Get the Recipe: Pad Kee Mao with Chicken

    Quiche Lorraine

    Slice of Quiche Lorraine on white plate next to fork and green salad.
    Quiche Lorraine. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

    When something quick but nice is needed, Quiche Lorraine fits right in. Works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner without any effort. Simple, easy, and always a good idea.
    Get the Recipe: Quiche Lorraine

    Instant Pot Beef Stew

    Instant Pot Beef Stew. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

    When comfort food calls but patience runs thin, Instant Pot Beef Stew steps in fast. It’s rich, hearty, and ready before you expect it. A perfect fix for no-fuss, cold-night dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef Stew

    Tater Tot Casserole

    A spatula lifts a portion of a baked casserole featuring tater tots, ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese from a glass dish.
    Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

    When comfort calls and effort’s low, Tater Tot Casserole saves the night. It’s cozy, quick, and perfect for a no-fuss dinner. Easy food that hits the spot every time.
    Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Casserole

    Shrimp Fried Rice

    Shrimp Fried Rice. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

    When the fridge looks empty, Shrimp Fried Rice pulls everything together. It’s fast, filling, and beats waiting for delivery. The perfect go-to when cooking feels like too much.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

    About Kristen Wood

    Kristen Wood is a writer, photographer, world traveler and cookbook author. Her work has been featured in various publications both online and in print, including Elle, Forbes, NBC, Chicago Sun-Times, Martha Stewart, Food Drink Life, Arizona Highways Magazine, New York Daily News, and more. She is also a syndicated writer for The Associated Press.

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