Cooking can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the kitchen or short on time. But what if I told you that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated? With these 20 effortless recipes from Mary Makes It Easy, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for convenience again. From classic comfort foods to sweet treats and savory meals, we’ve got a recipe to suit every taste and skill level. And the best part? These dishes are all surprisingly simple to make!
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight dinners or a college student trying to impress your friends with a homemade dessert, Mary Makes It Easy has got you covered.
Mary’s Easy One-Pot Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick, easy, and satisfying – perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and reserved pasta water. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Mary’s Cheesy Garlic Bread
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this simple yet delicious recipe for cheesy garlic bread! This classic comfort food is perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 loaf of French bread (14-16 inches)
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the French loaf into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each bread slice, leaving a 1/2 inch border at the top.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the garlic butter on each slice.
6. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mary’s Simple Veggie Stir-Fry
Looking for a quick and healthy meal option? Mary’s Simple Veggie Stir-Fry is the perfect solution! This recipe combines a variety of colorful vegetables with savory seasonings, all cooked to perfection in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas; cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in soy sauce and ginger; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Mary’s Chocolate Chip Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these classic cookies that are easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Mary’s No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars
These creamy, nutty bars are a classic favorite, requiring no baking and minimal effort. Perfect for a quick treat or snack, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup powdered milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
2. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, powdered milk, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the crust.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the bars to set.
6. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bars are ready in just a few minutes of prep work.
Simple Mary’s Chicken Alfredo
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is a staple for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and chicken mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mary’s Effortless Pancake Stack
Mary’s Effortless Pancake Stack: A Quick and Delicious Breakfast Treat
Get ready to start your day off right with Mary’s effortless pancake stack, a simple yet impressive breakfast treat that’s sure to please. This recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for busy mornings or brunches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Fresh fruit and whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; the batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with fresh fruit and whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Easy Mary’s Homemade Pizza
Create a delicious homemade pizza with this simple recipe that yields a crispy crust and flavorful toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, vegetables)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a circle or rectangle.
7. Top with desired toppings and bake for 15-20 minutes until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve Hot!
Mary’s Quick Taco Salad
Mary’s Quick Taco Salad Recipe
Need a flavorful and filling meal that can be prepared in no time? Look no further! This taco salad recipe is a game-changer, packed with protein, fiber, and spices. It’s perfect for a busy day or a quick dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternative options)
– 1/2 cup taco seasoning
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 taco-sized tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked ground beef, black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, and onion.
3. Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the mixture and toss to coat.
4. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle cumin over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with tortilla chips and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and quick Mary’s Taco Salad!
Simple Mary’s Beef Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs beef chuck or shank, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onions. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, carrots, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return the beef to the pot, along with broth and red wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Serve: Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. Enjoy!
Mary’s Easy Lemon Garlic Shrimp
A bright and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of lemon and garlic, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (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 garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
6. Add lemon juice to the skillet and simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with parsley, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Mary’s Banana Bread
Moist and delicious, this classic banana bread recipe is a perfect treat any time of the day. With ripe bananas and simple ingredients, you’ll have a fresh loaf ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Mary’s Simple Mac and Cheese
Mary’s Simple Mac and Cheese: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your comfort food cravings with this easy-to-make macaroni and cheese recipe that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat 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 flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Mary’s Stuffed Bell Peppers
This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Succulent bell peppers filled with flavorful rice, meat, and spices will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
4. Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Mix cooked rice with meat mixture.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Drizzle tops with olive oil and cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mary’s No-Fuss Chocolate Cake
This rich and moist chocolate cake requires only a few ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Simple Mary’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
A classic cookie recipe with a warm and comforting twist, these oatmeal raisin cookies are perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup raisins
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in raisins.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mary’s Easy Chicken Parmesan
A classic Italian-American favorite gets a simplified twist with Mary’s Easy Chicken Parmesan recipe. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle marinara sauce over the chicken breasts.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Mary’s Veggie Omelette
A flavorful and filling breakfast option that’s ready in a flash! This veggie-packed omelette is perfect for busy mornings when you need a nutritious start to your day.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the butter or non-stick cooking spray in a small non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to set.
4. Add the diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and parsley on one 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 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Mary’s Simple Spaghetti Bolognese
Mary’s Simple Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
A classic Italian dish that never goes out of style! This simple recipe yields a rich, flavorful bolognese sauce to serve with spaghetti and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lb spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the red wine, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve the bolognese sauce over cooked spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Mary’s Blueberry Muffins
Easy Mary’s Blueberry Muffins
These sweet and tender muffins are a perfect treat for breakfast or a snack. With fresh blueberries and a hint of vanilla, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook with ease! In this collection of effortless recipes, Mary shares her secrets for whipping up delicious meals and treats without breaking a sweat. From one-pot pasta to cheesy garlic bread, veggie stir-fry to chocolate chip cookies, these simple yet satisfying recipes are perfect for busy home cooks. With no-fuss instructions and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering meal in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, Mary’s makes-it-easy recipes will become your new go-to guide for stress-free cooking. Try them out today!
