Low-Effort Recipes That Look Like You Tried Really Hard

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Who says delicious meals have to be complicated? These 17 low-effort recipes prove that you can enjoy incredible flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. From comforting classics like Easy Beef Stroganoff and Cheesy Italian Sausage Lasagna to lighter options like Jicama Tacos and Vegan Enchiladas, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in hearty dishes like Chicken Korma and Smothered Pork Chops, or keep it simple with Broiled Scallops and Pan Fried Steak. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, these recipes make mealtime a breeze. Let’s get cooking—effortlessly!

Vegan Enchiladas

A vegan enchilada is topped with chopped lettuce and jalapeños with a bowl of salsa behind it.

These vegan enchiladas are packed with a flavorful filling of black beans, sweet potatoes, and veggie crumbles, all smothered in enchilada sauce and vegan cheddar cheese. They’re a delicious and satisfying plant-based meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Enchiladas

Vegan Hot Dogs

Four hotdogs are lined up in a row, They all have different toppings, like onions, tater tots, and more. There are bowls of toppings behind them.

These vegan hot dogs are a blank canvas for creativity! With four different topping ideas, you can create a vegan hot dog bar that everyone will love. Get ready to experience how easy and delicious vegan can be!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Hot Dogs

Jicama Tacos

Looking for a low-carb and healthy alternative to traditional tacos? These Jicama Tacos use thinly sliced jicama as a shell and are filled with flavorful jackfruit carnitas, avocado, and your favorite toppings. They’re easy to make and perfect for a light and refreshing meal!
Get the Recipe: Jicama Tacos

Vegan Beef Stew

This hearty Vegan Beef Stew is so easy to make, it will become a staple in your household! Packed with potatoes, carrots, corn, and beefless tips, even meat-eaters will love this delicious and filling stew. Perfect for meal prepping or a comforting dinner on a cold night.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Beef Stew

Smoky Breakfast Pizza Recipe with Perfect Sunny Egg

Level up your breakfast with this easy breakfast pizza featuring fresh pizza dough and smoky mozzarella. Topped with mushrooms, Pecorino Romano cheese, and a perfect sunny-side-up egg, this recipe is a delicious twist on a classic. Ready in minutes, it’s the perfect way to start your day.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Breakfast Pizza Recipe with Perfect Sunny Egg

Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca Pasta Recipe

A close-up of Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca showcases a vibrant tomato sauce with black and green olives, capers, and fresh basil leaves. A gold fork elegantly twirls the pasta on a white plate, inviting you to indulge in its rich flavors.

This Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca recipe is a quick and easy Italian classic that comes together with pantry staples like canned tomatoes, olives, and capers. It’s perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal when you’re short on time. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a weeknight winner!
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca Pasta Recipe

Easy Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff made up of Beef and mushrooms in a creamy Stroganoff sauce over noodles.

This easy beef stroganoff recipe features juicy beef strips smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Enjoy this family-friendly favorite that brings warmth to your table!
Get the Recipe: Easy Beef Stroganoff

Red Lentil Dahl Curry

A spoon scooping up vibrant Red Lentil Dahl from a bowl, with fluffy white rice and lemon wedges in the background, all resting on a woven mat.

This Red Lentil Dahl Curry is a flavor-packed, budget-friendly dish that’s both nutritious and incredibly delicious. It’s a simple one-pot recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. Enjoy this vegetarian-friendly dish that’s better than takeout!
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Dahl Curry

Panko Breaded Pork Chops

These Panko Breaded Pork Chops are a guaranteed family favorite! The crispy, flavorful breading is easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Enjoy this quick and easy recipe for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Panko Breaded Pork Chops

Cheesy Italian Sausage Lasagna

This Cheesy Italian Sausage Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food! Packed with Italian sausage, a rich tomato sauce, and layers of cheesy goodness, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this lasagna is easy to make and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Italian Sausage Lasagna

Chicken Korma

Craving a flavorful and comforting Indian dish? This Chicken Korma recipe delivers a rich, aromatic experience with a creamy texture that rivals your favorite takeout. Made with authentic spices and simple techniques, it’s easier to make than you think!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Korma

Turkey Tenderloin

This Turkey Tenderloin recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s packed with flavor from fresh herbs and a tangy honey-mustard glaze. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, this dish is sure to impress!
Get the Recipe: Turkey Tenderloin

Smothered Pork Chops

A plate with a pork chop crowned with sliced mushrooms and gravy, garnished with herbs. Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and broccoli, this family favorite is sure to be one of those incredible recipes you'll want to make again. A fork and knife are placed beside the steak.

These pork chops, topped with cheese and cooked in a rich onion and mushroom gravy, make for an easy and comforting weeknight dinner.

Get The Recipe: Smothered Pork Chops

Broiled Scallops

These Broiled Scallops with Garlic Butter are ready in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The combination of garlic, lemon zest, and parsley elevates the natural sweetness of the scallops. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Broiled Scallops

Pan Fried Steak

This recipe teaches you how to make a perfect pan-fried steak using only a few simple ingredients. It’s a quick and easy way to get a restaurant-quality steak at home. Enjoy this family-friendly recipe for a delicious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pan Fried Steak

Miso Chicken

This Miso Chicken recipe is a quick and easy way to get a burst of Asian-inspired flavor on the table. The savory-sweet marinade, made with miso paste, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice, makes this chicken so delicious! It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a game day gathering.
Get the Recipe: Miso Chicken

Healthy Fried Chicken

Three pieces of Easy Oven Fried Chicken speckled with parsley

Craving fried chicken but want a healthier option? This recipe for oven-fried chicken delivers a crispy, delicious coating without the guilt of deep frying. It’s perfect for a family-friendly meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Fried Chicken

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