18 Quick 6 Ingredient Recipes Delicious

Busy weeknights just met their match! Whether you’re craving cozy comfort food or fresh seasonal flavors, these 18 quick 6-ingredient recipes prove that delicious dinners don’t need a laundry list of ingredients—or hours in the kitchen. From one-pan wonders to no-fuss favorites, we’ve got your back (and your appetite). Ready to simplify cooking without sacrificing flavor? Let’s dive in!

6-Ingredient Garlic Butter Shrimp

This fuss-free shrimp dish comes together in minutes but tastes like a restaurant favorite—garlicky, buttery, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown!).
2. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes per side, just until opaque and pink.
3. Remove from heat, drizzle with 1 tbsp lemon juice, and toss to coat.

The magic here? A quick sear keeps the shrimp plump while the garlic butter forms a glossy, flavorful sauce—no extra steps needed. Serve over pasta or crusty bread to soak it all up.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream after the lemon juice.

Easy 6-Ingredient Chicken Stir Fry

This lightning-fast stir fry delivers big flavor with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp minced garlic

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink. Transfer to a plate.
2. Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Toss in broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
3. Return chicken to the skillet. Add soy sauce, honey, and garlic, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until sauce thickens slightly and clings to the ingredients.

The magic here is in the sticky-sweet glaze that caramelizes just enough to coat every bite—no cornstarch or fancy techniques required!

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts right before serving.

6-Ingredient Creamy Tomato Pasta

This 6-Ingredient Creamy Tomato Pasta is the ultimate weeknight hero—rich, velvety, and ready in under 20 minutes with just a handful of pantry staples.

• 8 oz dried pasta (like penne or rigatoni)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
3. Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to low, then stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and rosy. Toss with the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.

The magic here? Heavy cream transforms basic tomato sauce into something luxuriously silky without overpowering the bright acidity. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy!

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of sugar with the tomatoes if your sauce tastes too sharp.

6-Ingredient One-Pot Chili

This hearty chili comes together with just six pantry staples and a single pot—perfect for busy weeknights when you crave big flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and onion, breaking up the meat with a spoon, for 5–6 minutes until no pink remains.
2. Stir in the kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili is ready when slightly thickened and fragrant.

The magic here? Letting the chili simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes intensifies the flavors while keeping the beans perfectly tender.

Tip: Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness—no extra pots required!

6-Ingredient Lemon Herb Salmon

This bright, flaky salmon comes together with just a handful of pantry staples—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy.

Ingredients:

• 4 (6-oz) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Place on the baking sheet and drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, rubbing to coat evenly.
3. Sprinkle salmon evenly with 1 tbsp lemon zest, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Drizzle with 2 tbsp lemon juice.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F internally.

The lemon zest caramelizes slightly in the oven, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the herbaceous thyme—no marinating required!

Tip: For crispier skin, start salmon skin-side down in a hot oven-safe skillet for 3 minutes before transferring to the oven.

6-Ingredient Spinach and Feta Quiche

This fuss-free quiche is packed with savory feta and tender spinach—perfect for brunch or a lazy weekend breakfast.

Ingredients

• 1 refrigerated pie crust (9-inch)
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Unroll the pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork and pre-bake for 8 minutes.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Layer the spinach and feta evenly over the pre-baked crust, then pour the egg mixture over the top.
4. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

The creamy feta melts into the eggs, while the spinach keeps every bite fresh—no soggy crust here!

Tip: For extra flavor, sauté the spinach with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of garlic before adding it to the quiche.

6-Ingredient Honey Glazed Carrots

These honey-glazed carrots are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a glossy finish that makes them look as good as they taste—ready in under 20 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 2 tbsp butter. Add the carrots and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in the 2 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for another 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the carrots are tender and the glaze thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1 tbsp fresh parsley (if using). Serve warm.

The honey caramelizes just enough to give these carrots a delicate shine, while the butter keeps them rich and tender—no mushy veggies here!

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange juice with the honey.

6-Ingredient Sweet Potato Hash

This hearty sweet potato hash comes together in one pan with minimal effort, delivering crispy edges and a touch of smoky sweetness in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 lb), diced into ½-inch cubes
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sweet potatoes and onion, spreading them in an even layer. Cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to let the potatoes develop a golden crust.
2. Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Reduce heat to medium and cook for another 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and caramelized at the edges.

The magic here? Letting the potatoes sit undisturbed at the start creates those irresistible crispy bits while keeping the centers tender. Perfect for piling onto toast or topping with a fried egg.

Tip: For extra smokiness, swap half the paprika with chipotle powder—just a pinch adds a warm kick!

6-Ingredient Banana Oat Pancakes

These fluffy pancakes are a breeze to whip up with pantry staples—no flour needed, just wholesome oats and ripe bananas for a naturally sweet twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (plus extra for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the bananas, eggs, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and 1 tbsp maple syrup. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
2. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake and cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface.
3. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden and set. Repeat with remaining batter.

The oats give these pancakes a hearty, slightly chewy texture, while the bananas keep them irresistibly moist—no syrup required (though we won’t judge if you add extra!).

Tip: For extra-fluffy pancakes, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking to allow the oats to absorb the liquid.

6-Ingredient Peanut Butter Energy Bites

These no-bake peanut butter energy bites are the perfect grab-and-go snack—packed with protein and just the right amount of sweetness!

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

1. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/3 cup honey, 2 tbsp ground flaxseed, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until fully combined.
2. Fold in 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 1 tbsp each) and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
4. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

The flaxseed adds a nutty depth, while the honey keeps these bites just sweet enough without being cloying. Store extras in the fridge for a quick energy boost anytime!

Tip: For a firmer texture, freeze the bites for 10 minutes before transferring to the fridge.

6-Ingredient Avocado Toast with Egg

This creamy, protein-packed avocado toast is your new go-to breakfast—ready in just 10 minutes and endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices sourdough bread
• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Toast the sourdough bread until golden and crisp.
2. While the bread toasts, mash the avocado in a small bowl with 1/4 tsp kosher salt until slightly chunky or smooth, as preferred.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Crack in the eggs and fry sunny-side up for 3–4 minutes until the whites are set but yolks are still runny.
4. Spread the mashed avocado evenly onto the toasted bread, then top each slice with a fried egg. Sprinkle with 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes.

The contrast of the crispy toast, velvety avocado, and oozy yolk makes every bite irresistible. Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the avocado before adding the egg!

6-Ingredient Caprese Stuffed Avocados

These creamy avocados get a fresh upgrade with classic Caprese flavors—perfect for a light lunch or impressive appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 2 large ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 4 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or diced mozzarella)
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 6 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Scoop out a little extra avocado flesh from each half to create a deeper well (save the scraps for toast or smoothies).
2. In a bowl, gently toss cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, 1 tbsp olive oil, and 1/8 tsp each salt and pepper.
3. Divide the tomato mixture evenly among the avocado halves. Drizzle with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp balsamic glaze.
4. Sprinkle with remaining 1/8 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp pepper, and basil.

The cool avocado balances the tangy balsamic and juicy tomatoes, while the mozzarella adds a creamy bite—no cooking required!

Tip: For a pretty presentation, serve on a bed of arugula and sprinkle with flaky salt just before eating.

6-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies

These foolproof cookies are crispy on the edges, chewy in the middle, and come together with just six pantry staples—no mixer required!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in the flour just until combined (don’t overmix), then fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Drop 2-tbsp portions of dough onto sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden but centers look slightly underdone.
5. Let cookies cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack. They’ll firm up as they cool!

The melted butter gives these cookies an irresistible toffee-like depth, while the minimal mixing keeps them tender. Tip: For extra-thick cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

6-Ingredient No-Bake Cheesecake

This dreamy no-bake cheesecake is so simple, you’ll swear it’s magic—just 6 ingredients and zero oven time for a creamy, crowd-pleasing dessert.

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

1. Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until evenly moist. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and halfway up the sides. Chill for 15 minutes.
2. Whip the filling: Using a hand mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add heavy cream and powdered sugar, then whip on high for 2–3 minutes until fluffy and stiff peaks form.
3. Assemble: Spread filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until set.

The secret? Whipping the cream right into the cream cheese creates an airy texture that’s luxuriously light yet rich. Serve with fresh berries for a pop of color!

Tip: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.

6-Ingredient Veggie Packed Fried Rice

This speedy fried rice is loaded with colorful veggies and comes together in under 20 minutes—perfect for those nights when takeout sounds tempting but your fridge is full of odds and ends.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and cooled white rice (day-old works best!)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the eggs and scramble until just set, about 1 minute. Transfer to a plate.
2. Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Toss in the frozen vegetables and stir-fry for 3 minutes until heated through.
3. Add the rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is lightly crispy.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing everything to coat evenly. Fold in the scrambled eggs and green onions. Cook for 1 more minute to combine flavors.

The magic here? Toasted sesame oil adds a nutty depth that makes this simple dish taste like it simmered all day (when really, it took less time than delivery!).

Tip: For extra crunch, press the rice into the skillet in an even layer and let it sit undisturbed for 30 seconds before stirring—this creates those crave-worthy crispy bits.

6-Ingredient BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

These sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—tender, smoky pulled pork piled onto soft rolls with just the right amount of tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for game day or a fuss-free weeknight dinner!

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
• 12 slider buns (Hawaiian or potato rolls work great!)

Instructions:

1. Rub the pork shoulder evenly with smoked paprika, brown sugar, and kosher salt. Place in a slow cooker.
2. Pour 1 cup BBQ sauce over the pork, cover, and cook on LOW for 8 hours (or HIGH for 5 hours) until the meat shreds easily with a fork.
3. Transfer the pork to a bowl and shred, discarding any large fat pieces. Stir in ½ cup of the cooking liquid to keep it juicy.
4. Toast the slider buns lightly if desired, then pile each with pulled pork. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce and serve warm.

The magic here? The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the pork with deep smoky-sweet flavor while keeping it irresistibly tender. No fancy techniques—just big, messy, delicious results.

Tip: For a crispier texture, broil the shredded pork on a baking sheet for 3–5 minutes before assembling.

6-Ingredient Mediterranean Hummus Wrap

Packed with bright flavors and ready in minutes, this wrap is your new go-to lunch that feels like a vacation in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 large whole wheat tortilla (10-inch)
• 1/3 cup roasted red pepper hummus
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced English cucumber
• 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions:

1. Lay the tortilla flat on a cutting board. Spread the 1/3 cup hummus evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border.
2. Layer the cucumber, 1/4 cup feta, and 1/4 cup olives in the center of the tortilla. Drizzle with 1 tsp olive oil and sprinkle with 1 tbsp parsley.
3. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling. Slice diagonally and serve immediately.

The briny olives and creamy hummus balance perfectly against the crisp cucumber—no soggy wraps here!

Tip: For extra hold, lightly toast the tortilla in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side before filling.

6-Ingredient Berry Smoothie Bowl

This vibrant smoothie bowl is like sunshine in a bowl—packed with antioxidants and ready in minutes for a refreshing breakfast or snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen banana, sliced
• 1 cup frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 1 tsp chia seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the frozen banana, frozen mixed berries, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and 1 tbsp honey. Blend on high until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed (about 1–2 minutes).
2. Pour the thick smoothie into a bowl and swirl the top with a spoon for a creamy texture.
3. Sprinkle with 1 tsp chia seeds for a crunchy contrast.

The magic here? The frozen fruit makes it spoonably thick without needing ice, so every bite is bursting with berry flavor—no dilution!

Tip: For extra decadence, drizzle with almond butter or sprinkle with granola before serving.

Conclusion

With 18 quick and easy 6-ingredient recipes, dinner just got a whole lot simpler! Whether you’re short on time or ingredients, these delicious dishes are sure to please. Give them a try, and let us know which ones become your new favorites in the comments below. Don’t forget to share the love—pin this roundup on Pinterest for your next busy night!