Title: 20 Quick Recipes for One Delicious Meal
When it comes to cooking for one, it can be challenging to find recipes that yield the perfect portion size without sacrificing flavor or quality. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 20 quick and delicious recipes specifically designed for a single serving. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and loaded baked potatoes, to healthy options like vegetable stir-fries and lean proteins, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or want to impress your significant other with a romantic dinner, these recipes are sure to please. And the best part? Each dish can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, making it easy to fit into even the busiest of schedules. In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through this collection of one-person wonders, highlighting some of our favorite ingredients and cooking techniques along the way.
Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter steak with the tender crunch of roasted asparagus. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and thyme.
3. Season steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place steak in the oven and roast for 10-12 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Toss asparagus with olive oil and season with salt.
6. Roast asparagus in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
7. Remove steak from the oven and top with garlic butter mixture.
8. Serve with roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Pasta for One
This recipe is a rich and satisfying solo dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. With just a few ingredients, you can create a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta to the saucepan and toss with the creamy mushroom sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Single-Serve Margherita Pizza
A classic Italian favorite, reinvented for one! This recipe yields a perfectly portioned pizza with the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 small flour tortilla (6-8 inches)
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the tortilla to desired size.
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Easy One-Pan Chicken Stir Fry
A quick and flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white or brown rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the chicken is coated with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Microwave Egg Scramble with Spinach
This recipe is perfect for a busy morning when you need a nutritious breakfast on-the-go. In just 2 minutes, you can scramble eggs with spinach and have a delicious meal ready to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add the fresh spinach leaves on top of the eggs.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Microwave on high for 1 minute, stirring every 15 seconds until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
5. Remove from the microwave and stir well to combine the eggs and spinach.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Mini Beef and Cheese Quesadilla
These bite-sized quesadillas are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. With a flavorful beef filling and melted cheese, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4-6 mini tortillas (corn or flour)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, and cilantro for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef in the skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Place a mini tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Spoon the beef mixture onto half of the tortilla, then fold the other half over to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Avocado Toast with Poached Egg
This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado with the savory goodness of a poached egg, all on top of crispy whole grain toast. Perfect for a quick and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 4 slices whole grain bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Mash the avocado in a bowl with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
3. Poach the eggs by cracking them into a pot of simmering water and cooking for 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set.
4. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
5. Place the poached egg on top of the avocado.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies
These bite-sized cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overdoing it. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy the rich flavor of chocolate chips in every delicious bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in the chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Person Shakshuka
Shakshuka, the popular North African and Middle Eastern dish, is now easy to make for one! This recipe yields a flavorful, egg-filled skillet that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying solo meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg
– Feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a small cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Create a small well in the center of the vegetable mixture and crack in the egg.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
7. Remove from the oven and top with crumbled feta cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Quick Caprese Salad for One
Savor the flavors of Italy with this effortless Caprese salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect as a snack or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large tomato, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a plate or cutting board.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the cheese.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Single-Serving Mac and Cheese
This recipe yields a creamy, cheesy macaroni dish perfect for a solo meal or as a starter. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup macaroni
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer the mixture to a single-serving ramekin or small baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Butter
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of salmon and butter, perfectly balanced by a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. A simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked halfway through.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low, add softened butter to the skillet, and stir until melted.
6. Add lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Place the salmon back in the skillet, skin side up (if it has skin).
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Loaded Baked Potato
These bite-sized baked potatoes are packed with flavor and perfect for a snack or appetizer. With a crispy outside, fluffy inside, and loaded with cheese, sour cream, and bacon, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 6-8 mini baking potatoes (about 1 inch in diameter)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry with a paper towel.
3. Poke some holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
4. Rub the potatoes with butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Remove from oven and top each potato with shredded cheese, sour cream, and crumbled bacon.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Bowl Banana Pancakes
These fluffy pancakes are a perfect way to start your day, packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. With only one bowl to mix and clean, this recipe is a breeze to make!
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add milk and egg to the bowl. Stir until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil if needed.
4. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for another minute.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (4-5 pancakes)
Personal Spinach and Feta Omelet
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast that’s easy to make. This spinach and feta omelet is a great way to get your daily dose of greens and protein.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Sprinkle the chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese over half of the omelet.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelet over the filling.
6. Cook for another 30-45 seconds, until the eggs are almost set and the cheese is melted.
7. Slide the omelet out of the pan onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Small Portion Beef Tacos
For a flavorful and satisfying meal, look no further than these tender beef tacos. This recipe yields four small portions perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 small corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, for serving (optional)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
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 diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla and topping with cheese and cilantro, if desired.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Single-Serve Blueberry Muffin
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this simple recipe for a single-serve blueberry muffin, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat your microwave to 1000W.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gently fold in blueberries.
5. Pour the batter into a single-serve microwave-safe mug or ramekin.
6. Microwave for 1 minute and 15 seconds (or adjust to your liking).
7. Let cool for 30 seconds before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 minute 15 seconds
Enjoy your delicious, moist, and flavorful blueberry muffin!
Easy Tomato Basil Soup for One
This simple and flavorful soup is a perfect treat for one, packed with the sweetness of tomatoes and the freshness of basil. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced tomato, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mini Chicken Pot Pie
A delicious and comforting treat that’s perfect for a snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought), cut into small squares (about 12-15 pieces)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, vegetables, melted butter, flour, chicken broth, milk, and beaten eggs.
3. Place a pie crust square on a flat surface. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one half of the crust.
4. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges together to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Person Veggie Fried Rice
A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a solo dinner or lunch. This recipe serves one, but can be easily scaled up to feed more people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium-sized non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in the egg (if using) and scramble it until cooked through.
5. Mix the egg with the vegetables.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 quick and delicious recipes perfect for a single serving. From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Steak with Roasted Asparagus and Easy One-Pan Chicken Stir Fry, to sweet treats like Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies and Single-Serve Blueberry Muffin, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re cooking for one or looking for meal prep ideas, these recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor. Get inspired and start cooking!
