Dinner for one – it’s a challenge many of us face on a daily basis. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or simply someone who prefers to cook just enough for themselves, finding quick and easy dinner recipes that cater to your needs can be overwhelming. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipes, each one designed specifically for one person.
From seafood-inspired dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles and Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops, to hearty pasta options like Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and One-Pot Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? Each dish can be prepared in no time at all, giving you more time to enjoy your meal and less stress in the kitchen.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
A flavorful and nutritious seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of zucchini noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 medium zucchini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or using a spiralizer. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute to deglaze the pan.
5. Serve shrimp over zucchini noodles, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce on top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes
A bright and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and tangy lemon flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add potatoes, garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return chicken to the pan, stir to combine with potatoes and sauce.
6. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Elevate your snack game with this creative take on the Caprese salad, featuring creamy avocado as the “bowl.” This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the crunch of fresh basil in one delightful package.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half lengthwise and remove the pit.
2. Arrange the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella slices on top of each avocado half.
3. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the cheese and tomatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Whisk up a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish with this simple recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Microwave Egg Fried Rice
In this quick and easy recipe, we’ll show you how to make a delicious microwave egg fried rice dish that’s perfect for busy days or late-night snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine cooked rice, mixed vegetables, and vegetable oil.
2. Microwave on high for 3 minutes, stirring every minute until the veggies are tender.
3. Push the rice mixture to one side of the bowl.
4. Add the beaten eggs to the empty side of the bowl and cook on high for 30-45 seconds, or until the eggs are scrambled.
5. Stir the eggs into the rice mixture.
6. Add soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Microwave on high for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring once, until the flavors are well combined.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of pesto pasta with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought basil pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the pesto over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with pesto and cherry tomatoes. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Single-Serve Margherita Pizza
This recipe yields a deliciously simple and satisfying single-serve Margherita pizza that’s perfect for a solo meal or snack. With just a few ingredients, you can have a hot and fresh pie in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 mini pizza crust (6 inches)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the mini pizza crust on a baking sheet or oven-safe plate.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the crust, then spread the tomato sauce evenly.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and oregano over the sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this sticky and savory Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon recipe! With a perfect balance of sweet honey and spicy sriracha, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips: Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa. For an extra crispy crust, broil the salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
Spinach and Feta Omelette
A delicious and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and a fluffy omelette.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a fork until well-mixed.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the eggs into the skillet and cook for 30-45 seconds or until the edges start to set.
4. Sprinkle the chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30-60 seconds, until the eggs are almost set and the cheese is melted.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Quick Black Bean Quesadilla
In just a few minutes, you can create a flavorful and filling snack or meal with this easy-to-make black bean quesadilla recipe. Perfect for a busy day when you need a quick and satisfying solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large tortillas
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese and half of the black bean mixture.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook the other side for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
A flavorful and savory Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken pieces in a single layer.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
7. Toss mixed vegetables with salt, pepper, and sesame seeds (if using).
8. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of rice, followed by mixed vegetables.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado and Egg Toast
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that’s both creamy and crunchy. This simple recipe combines the richness of avocado with the protein-packed goodness of eggs, all on top of crispy toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
4. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
5. Place the scrambled eggs on top of the avocado.
6. Add salt and pepper to taste, and optional red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines tender steak bites with a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the steak bites and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a plate.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the butter to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese
This comforting soup and sandwich combination is a perfect remedy for a chilly day. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and gooey melted cheese come together in a delightful union.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons butter for grilled cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Butter two slices of bread per sandwich. Assemble sandwiches with melted cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella) and grill until golden brown.
5. Serve soup hot, accompanied by grilled cheese sandwiches.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops: A Bright and Flavorful Seafood Delight
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the richness of butter. It’s a simple yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 12 large scallops
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Salt and pepper the scallops to taste. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Divide the butter mixture evenly among the scallops, spooning it over each one.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until scallops are opaque and firm to the touch.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Tuna Melt
This classic comfort food is a simple and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious tuna melt that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese (or your preferred type)
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, dill, and mustard until well combined.
3. Place one slice of bread on the skillet and top with the tuna mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Place one slice of cheese on top of the tuna.
5. Top with the second slice of bread.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a deliciously spicy and savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2-3 dried red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the pot and stir to combine with the garlic mixture.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pot, tossing to combine with the garlic sauce. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
A crispy and flavorful twist on traditional chicken parmesan, this recipe yields a deliciously crunchy exterior and juicy interior.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Veggie Stir Fry with Tofu
A quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines the nutty taste of tofu with a colorful medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 cups mixed broccoli florets and snap peas
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pan; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli mixture to the pan. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Microwave Mac and Cheese
Say goodbye to tedious stove-top cooking and hello to a comforting, creamy macaroni and cheese dish that’s ready in just a few minutes! This microwave recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, milk, and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Add the grated cheddar cheese and stir until well combined.
3. Sprinkle paprika on top of the macaroni mixture.
4. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid and microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is cooked to your liking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress with these 20 quick and easy dinner recipes that serve one delicious meal! From seafood to pasta, and even some vegan options, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles, One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes, or even Microwave Egg Fried Rice. Each recipe is designed to be simple, fast, and flavorful, making it perfect for a busy day when cooking for one. Check out the full list of recipes below!
