Beat the Clock with 4 Fast Dinner Recipes

Does the thought of a tasty homemade dinner on a busy weeknight feel like a far-fetched fantasy? Between sports practices, play rehearsals, homework and household chores — among many other things — those few evening hours can pass by in a flash. Well, you can make the delicious daydream of a homemade supper a reality with these four recipes, all of which have start-to-table times ranging from 20–45 minutes. Look to shortcuts like salad kits, instant rice and Deli sides to help round out your plate.

For more quick meal inspiration, check out our cheat sheet on pantry helpers and meal starters. A lot of the items are budget friendly, too!

Veggie Lo Mein

Scrambled eggs make this vegetarian dish extra satisfying, while frozen stir-fry vegetables make prep a breeze. Serve with frozen spring rolls for a fun takeout vibe.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 25 minutes | Total: 35 minutes

Serves: 4

Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas

Dirty fewer dishes and avoid those pesky hot oil splatters by cooking sheet pan-style fajitas. While the shrimp and veggies cook, dice some avocado and set out chips and salsa.

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 10 minutes | Total: 20 minutes

Serves: 4

Creamy BLT Pasta

A fan favorite for so many reasons, BLT pasta delights adults and kids alike. Zippy tomatoes pair perfectly with creamy sour cream and salty bacon, making this dish equal parts fresh and cozy.

Prep: 5 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Total: 30 minutes

Serves: 4

Sun-Dried Tomato, Basil and Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken Breasts

With a short list of ingredients and only 10 minutes of prep time, this cheesy, flavorful dish brings a taste of Italy into your kitchen.

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 35 minutes | Total: 45 minutes

Serves: 4

Keep these budget-friendly building blocks on hand so they’re ready to go when you need them.

Cupboard

• Canned tuna: Bulk up green salads or throw together a tuna melt.
• Chicken stock: It’s not just for soup — add it to sauces or cook grains with it for extra flavor.
• Canned tomatoes: They’re a must-have for pasta, casseroles and chili.
• Quinoa: It can be ready in 15 minutes.
• Instant polenta: It makes a creamy, quick side.
• Pasta: With a little garlic, oil and parmesan cheese, you’ve got a meal.
• Couscous: Boil with some stock and it’s ready to go.
• Canned beans: Add satisfying heft to quesadillas, burritos and salads.

Fridge

• Bacon: From fried rice to potato soup, a little bacon makes any recipe special.
• Eggs: Omelets and frittatas are quick and easy, plus a fried egg can top any meal.
• Flour or corn tortillas: Transform leftovers into fillings for quesadillas or toppings for Mexican-inspired pizzas.

Freezer

• Frozen peas and corn: Add these to pasta, fried rice or casseroles.
• Ground beef: A pound thaws quickly in the microwave and is a starter for countless recipes.