Ever find yourself staring into the fridge, wondering what to whip up with just a handful of ingredients? You’re not alone! Our roundup of 20 Easy Few Ingredient Recipes is here to save your weeknights with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. From cozy comfort foods to bright seasonal delights, these simple yet delicious dishes promise to keep your cooking stress-free and your taste buds happy. Let’s dive in!
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Who knew that just three ingredients could turn into such delightful treats? These peanut butter cookies are impossibly easy and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 large egg until well combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to press down lightly on each ball, creating a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
The magic of these cookies lies in their chewy center and crisp edges, a texture contrast that’s hard to resist. Plus, the crisscross pattern isn’t just for looks—it helps the cookies bake evenly.
Tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the cookies right after they come out of the oven.
4-Ingredient Banana Pancakes
Who knew that just four ingredients could turn into the fluffiest, most satisfying pancakes? These banana pancakes are a game-changer for busy mornings.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Whisk in the eggs until well combined.
- Add the flour and baking powder to the banana mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
The natural sweetness of bananas means you can skip the syrup, making these pancakes a healthier twist on the classic. Plus, they’re so light and airy, you’ll forget they’re just four ingredients.
Tip: For extra fluffy pancakes, let the batter sit for 5 minutes before cooking to allow the baking powder to activate.
5-Ingredient Garlic Butter Shrimp
Looking for a quick, flavorful dish that feels a bit fancy but is incredibly simple to make? This 5-Ingredient Garlic Butter Shrimp is your weeknight dinner hero.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
The magic of this dish lies in the perfect balance of rich butter, pungent garlic, and a hint of heat from the red pepper flakes, creating a sauce that’s irresistible for dipping crusty bread.
Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp before serving.
3-Ingredient Avocado Chocolate Mousse
Who knew that blending just three simple ingredients could result in such a decadent treat? This 3-Ingredient Avocado Chocolate Mousse is a game-changer for quick, healthy desserts.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Place the peeled and pitted avocados in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
- Add the 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder and 1/4 cup maple syrup to the blender. Blend again until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth, about another minute.
- Transfer the mousse to serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set and chill.
The magic of this mousse lies in the avocados, which provide a silky texture without any dairy, making it a perfect vegan-friendly dessert.
Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, top with fresh berries or a sprinkle of sea salt before serving.
4-Ingredient No-Bake Cheesecake
Who knew indulgence could be so simple? This 4-Ingredient No-Bake Cheesecake is your ticket to a creamy, dreamy dessert with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the 2 packages of softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until the mixture is creamy and free of lumps.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
The magic of this cheesecake lies in its velvety texture and the perfect balance of sweetness, all without turning on your oven.
Tip: For an extra touch, top with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving.
5-Ingredient Caprese Salad
Nothing beats the simplicity and freshness of a classic Caprese Salad, especially when it’s made with just five ingredients. Perfect for those busy weeknights or as a elegant starter for your dinner parties.
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices alternately on a large serving platter, slightly overlapping them for a beautiful presentation.
- Tuck the fresh basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices, distributing them evenly throughout.
- Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the arranged slices, ensuring each piece gets a light coating.
- Sprinkle the sea salt evenly over the salad to enhance the flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella.
The magic of this Caprese Salad lies in the harmony of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, brought together with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. It’s a testament to how minimal ingredients can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Tip: For an extra touch of flavor, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving.
3-Ingredient Homemade Bread
Who knew that making homemade bread could be so simple? With just three ingredients, this recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks.
Ingredients
- 3 cups self-rising flour
- 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, mix together the self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, and salt until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 2 minutes until smooth.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Use a sharp knife to make a few shallow cuts on top of the loaf for decoration.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then increase the temperature to 425°F and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
The magic of this bread lies in the Greek yogurt, which gives it a tender crumb and a slight tang that’s irresistible. Perfect for those who love artisan-style bread without the fuss.
Tip: For an extra crispy crust, brush the loaf with a little melted butter right after baking.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Who knew such minimal effort could yield such maximum flavor? This 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a game-changer for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup barbecue sauce, 1/2 cup chicken broth, and 1 tbsp brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender enough to shred with a fork.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve hot on buns or over rice for a satisfying meal that’s bursting with smoky sweetness.
The magic here is in the slow cooking, which turns the pork shoulder into melt-in-your-mouth perfection with zero fuss.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the pork shoulder in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
5-Ingredient One-Pot Pasta
Who says delicious pasta has to be complicated? This 5-Ingredient One-Pot Pasta is a game-changer for busy weeknights, combining simplicity with unbeatable flavor.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes.
- Add the linguine pasta to the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is al dente and the liquid has thickened into a sauce, remove from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
The magic of this dish lies in the pasta cooking directly in the flavorful broth, absorbing all the delicious tastes as it simmers. It’s a foolproof method that guarantees a rich, cohesive flavor in every bite.
Tip: For an extra kick, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
3-Ingredient Chocolate Fudge
Who knew that the creamiest, dreamiest chocolate fudge could come together with just three ingredients? This no-fuss recipe is proof that sometimes, less really is more.
Ingredients
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips and the entire can of sweetened condensed milk. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm to the touch.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the dish. Cut into 1-inch squares and serve.
The magic of this fudge lies in its velvety texture and deep chocolate flavor, achieved without any fancy techniques or equipment.
Tip: For a festive twist, sprinkle the top with sea salt or chopped nuts before chilling.
4-Ingredient Baked Salmon
This 4-Ingredient Baked Salmon is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, delivering a flavorful and healthy meal with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillet
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
The magic of this recipe lies in its perfect balance of crisp edges and tender, flaky interior, achieved with just four pantry staples.
Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the baked salmon just before serving.
5-Ingredient Veggie Stir Fry
Whip up this vibrant 5-Ingredient Veggie Stir Fry in just minutes for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Pour in 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil, tossing to coat the vegetables evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
The magic of this stir fry lies in the perfect balance of crunch and sauce, making it a standout dish that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.
Tip: For an extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the skillet with the soy sauce and sesame oil.
3-Ingredient Omelette
Who knew that with just three ingredients, you could whip up an omelette that’s fluffy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying? This 3-Ingredient Omelette is proof that simplicity can be delicious.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Crack the eggs into a bowl, add the salt, and whisk until the mixture is fully blended and slightly frothy.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the butter, swirling it around until melted and the skillet is evenly coated.
- Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, tilting it to spread the eggs evenly. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes, or until the edges start to set.
- Gently lift the edges of the omelette with a spatula, tilting the skillet to let the uncooked eggs flow underneath. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the omelette is mostly set but still slightly soft on top.
- Fold the omelette in half with the spatula and slide it onto a plate. Serve immediately.
The magic of this omelette lies in its simplicity, allowing the rich, buttery flavor of the eggs to shine through without any distractions.
Tip: For an extra fluffy texture, let the eggs sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before whisking.
4-Ingredient Chicken Quesadillas
These 4-Ingredient Chicken Quesadillas are the perfect quick fix for a busy weeknight, combining simplicity with irresistible cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brush with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded chicken and 1/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese, then top with another tortilla.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden and the cheese begins to melt, then carefully flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas, chicken, and cheese.
- Cut each quesadilla into quarters and serve hot. The magic here is in the crispy exterior giving way to the molten cheese and tender chicken inside—simple, yet utterly satisfying.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, mix a pinch of cumin into the shredded chicken before assembling the quesadillas.
5-Ingredient Beef Tacos
These 5-Ingredient Beef Tacos are a weeknight hero, combining simplicity with bold flavors for a meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Warm the tortillas according to package instructions.
- Divide the beef mixture among the tortillas. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and lettuce.
The magic of these tacos lies in the perfect balance of savory beef and crisp lettuce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. It’s a texture and flavor combo that’s hard to beat.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce before serving.
3-Ingredient Pancakes
Who knew that just three ingredients could whip up something as delightful as these fluffy pancakes? Perfect for those lazy Sunday mornings when you want something quick yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup almond butter
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
- Whisk in the eggs and almond butter until the batter is well combined and slightly frothy.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with a dab of butter or a spray of cooking oil.
- Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
These pancakes are naturally sweet from the banana and have a rich, nutty depth thanks to the almond butter, making them a guilt-free treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Tip: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
4-Ingredient Tomato Soup
Whip up this comforting 4-Ingredient Tomato Soup in no time, perfect for those cozy nights in when you crave something simple yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer it to a blender in batches and blend until smooth. Return to the pot if necessary and heat through.
This soup’s magic lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor, achieved with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. The immersion blender step ensures a velvety texture that’s irresistibly smooth.
Tip: For an extra creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
5-Ingredient Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
These 5-Ingredient Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes are the perfect side dish that’s easy to make but packed with flavor, turning ordinary potatoes into something extraordinary.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes with 3 tablespoons olive oil, 4 cloves minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon salt until evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven, sprinkle 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
The magic of these potatoes lies in their crispy edges and the way the Parmesan forms a savory crust that’s irresistible.
Tip: For an extra crispy finish, broil the potatoes for the last 2 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
3-Ingredient Smoothie Bowl
Start your morning with a burst of energy and flavor with this effortlessly simple 3-Ingredient Smoothie Bowl that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 frozen bananas, sliced
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries
- 1/2 cup almond milk
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the 2 frozen bananas, 1 cup frozen mixed berries, and 1/2 cup almond milk. Blend on high until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour the smoothie into a bowl and let it sit for a minute to thicken slightly for the perfect spoonable consistency.
- Top with your favorite granola, a drizzle of honey, or extra berries for added texture and flavor.
The magic of this smoothie bowl lies in its versatility—swap the berries for any frozen fruit you have on hand for a new twist every time.
Tip: For an extra thick smoothie bowl, freeze your bananas overnight before blending.
4-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies
Who knew that just four ingredients could lead to such irresistible chocolate chip cookies? These are the perfect blend of simplicity and decadence, ready to satisfy your sweet tooth in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 large egg until well combined.
- Fold in 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
The magic of these cookies lies in their chewy texture and the way the peanut butter and chocolate chips meld together for a flavor that’s both rich and comforting.
Tip: For an extra chocolatey experience, try using mini chocolate chips—they distribute more evenly throughout the dough!
Conclusion
We hope these 20 easy, few-ingredient recipes inspire your next kitchen adventure! Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, they’re all about simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments or pin this article to your Pinterest board for later. Happy cooking!