When it comes to meal planning, we often find ourselves stuck between a rock and a hard place – no inspiration for dinner, but still wanting something delicious. That’s where pantry staples come in! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a tasty meal that’s quick, easy, and budget-friendly.
In this article, we’ll share 20 easy pantry recipes perfect for busy weeknights when cooking from scratch feels like an impossible task. From classic comfort food to international twists, these dishes are all made possible with the help of your trusty pantry. Say goodbye to meal planning stress and hello to flavorful meals that won’t break the bank!
In this series of quick and easy recipes, we’ll explore how a few key ingredients can be combined in countless ways to create a wide range of delicious meals. From pasta dishes to soups, casseroles, and more, these pantry staples will become your new go-to’s for when you need a meal in a hurry.
Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Canned Tomatoes
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the simplicity of canned tomatoes with the richness of garlic and parmesan cheese, all on a bed of al dente pasta. A perfect weeknight dinner solution!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in canned tomatoes and stir to combine with garlic. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and combined with the tomato sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pantry-Staple Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and comforting curry that can be whipped up using common pantry staples. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to brighten up any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the curry has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick and Easy Tuna Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s ready in under an hour! This tuna casserole is a simple and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers (e.g. Ritz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, macaroni, peas and carrots, milk, and melted butter. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle crushed crackers evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodles with Pantry Ingredients
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional noodles, this recipe combines the richness of peanut butter with a kick of heat from chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, whisk together peanut butter, chili flakes, chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the peanut sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Lentil Soup with Canned Veggies
This hearty and comforting soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day. With the convenience of canned vegetables, it’s also quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) peas and carrots, drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
2. Add canned vegetables, onion, garlic, and thyme. Stir well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Rice and Beans
This classic recipe is a staple of many cuisines around the world, and for good reason – it’s simple, flavorful, and filling! With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked black beans, rice, water, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pantry-Friendly Tomato Basil Soup
This hearty soup is a staple for any pantry, made with canned tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth (canned or homemade)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Stir in the chopped basil leaves.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Hummus with Canned Chickpeas
Make a delicious and healthy dip with just a few simple ingredients. This classic Middle Eastern recipe is easy to make and perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a tasty addition to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: paprika, cumin, or other spices to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender running, slowly add olive oil and water. Continue blending until creamy and smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If too thick, add a little more water. If not spicy enough, add more garlic or your preferred spices.
4. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, crackers, or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus blending time)
Easy Pantry Pancakes with Flour and Eggs
Start your day with a warm, fluffy stack of pancakes made with just flour and eggs – no milk or butter needed! This easy recipe is perfect for when you’re short on ingredients or in a hurry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and eggs until smooth.
2. The batter should still be slightly lumpy – that’s okay!
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
6. Flip the pancakes and cook for another minute, until golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings – we like a sprinkle of sugar or some fresh fruit!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Canned Corn and Black Bean Quesadillas
These Canned Corn and Black Bean Quesadillas are a delicious and effortless twist on traditional quesadillas. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe combines the flavors of corn, black beans, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup canned corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, corn kernels, and olive oil.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the bean-corn mixture onto half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pantry Pasta Puttanesca
This recipe takes the classic Italian dish and simplifies it by using pantry staples, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes (28 oz.)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup of capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, olives, and capers. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer sauce for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Add reserved water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Quick Oatmeal Cookies with Pantry Staples
In just a few minutes, you can whip up a batch of chewy and delicious oatmeal cookies using common pantry staples. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Optional: nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Canned Anchovies
This Spaghetti Aglio e Olio recipe is a simplified version of the classic Italian dish, using canned anchovies for added depth of flavor. This 10-minute meal is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp canned anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– Salt and red pepper flakes, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add chopped anchovies to the skillet and stir until dissolved into the oil. Season with salt and red pepper flakes to taste.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated with the garlic-anchovy sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pantry-Friendly Banana Bread
Moist and delicious banana bread made with common pantry staples!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Simple Canned Tuna Salad
A classic and easy-to-make salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack, this tuna salad is a great way to get your omega-3 fix without breaking the bank.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon of chopped celery
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped hard-boiled egg (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, onion, and celery.
2. Mix all the ingredients together until they’re well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. If using, stir in the chopped hard-boiled egg.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of mixing.
Easy Pantry Fried Rice
A simple and versatile recipe that’s perfect for using up leftover rice and pantry staples. This dish is a great way to clear out your fridge and create a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 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
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet 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 cooked rice; stir-fry for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using eggs, push the rice mixture to one side of the pan; crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through. Mix the eggs into the rice.
6. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chickpea and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the comforting warmth of chickpeas and rice with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, rice, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chickpea mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pantry-Staple Chocolate Mug Cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this simple and satisfying pantry-staple recipe that requires no advanced cooking skills or specialty ingredients. This rich and fudgy cake is ready in just 1 minute, making it the perfect solution for a late-night craving or emergency dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy milk alternative)
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla extract to the mug. Whisk until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 1 minute.
4. Remove from microwave and let cool for 30 seconds.
5. If desired, add chocolate chips or shavings on top and let melt slightly.
Cooking Time: 1 minute
Quick Pantry Minestrone Soup
A comforting and hearty soup that’s ready in no time, using pantry staples and a few fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (4 oz) chopped green beans
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 cups of vegetable broth over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and green beans. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the pasta shapes and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Granola with Oats and Nuts
A delicious and healthy snack made with rolled oats, nuts, and a hint of sweetness, this homemade granola is perfect for munching on the go. With its crunchy texture and nutty flavor, it’s sure to satisfy your snacking cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, and walnuts)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats and nuts.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, maple syrup, and vegetable oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
When busy weeknights get the best of you, don’t stress about cooking! These 20 easy pantry recipes will have you whipping up delicious meals in no time. From pasta dishes to soups, casseroles, and even baked goods, these simple yet satisfying recipes use only pantry staples. Discover creative ways to use canned tomatoes, chickpeas, tuna, and more to make tasty meals like garlic parmesan pasta, spicy peanut noodles, and one-pot rice and beans. Stock your pantry with confidence knowing you’ve got a repertoire of quick and easy meals at your fingertips.
