20 Quick 5 Ingredient Recipes for Busy Days

Busy days call for simple solutions—and dinner shouldn’t be a hassle! Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just life in general, these 20 quick 5-ingredient recipes are here to save the day. From cozy comfort food to fresh seasonal favorites, each dish is fast, flavorful, and fuss-free. Ready to make weeknights easier? Let’s dive in!

5-Ingredient Garlic Butter Shrimp

This quick and flavorful shrimp dish is a weeknight hero—ready in under 15 minutes but fancy enough to impress guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
2. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp salt. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping once, until opaque and slightly curled.
3. Remove from heat and drizzle with 1 tbsp lemon juice, tossing to coat. Let rest for 1 minute to soak up the garlic butter.

The magic here? The shrimp stay plump and juicy while soaking up that rich, garlicky sauce—no overcooking allowed!

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to swipe up every last bit of that buttery goodness.

Easy 5-Ingredient Chicken Tacos

These fuss-free tacos are packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 (1-oz) packet taco seasoning
• 8 small corn tortillas, warmed
• 1 cup pico de gallo (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink.
2. Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the chicken, along with ¼ cup water. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
3. Divide chicken among warmed tortillas and top with pico de gallo.

The magic here? The taco seasoning forms a glossy, savory glaze that clings to every bite of chicken—no boring dry spices here!

Tip: Char your tortillas directly over a gas burner for 5–10 seconds per side for extra smoky flavor.

Simple 5-Ingredient Pasta Primavera

This vibrant pasta primavera is a celebration of fresh flavors, ready in under 30 minutes with just a handful of ingredients—perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz fettuccine (or pasta of choice)
• 2 cups mixed bell peppers and zucchini, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt, plus more for pasta water
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until veggies are tender-crisp.
4. Toss drained pasta into the skillet with veggies. Add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time, stirring to create a light sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan and toss to coat.

The magic here? The starchy pasta water transforms into a silky sauce that clings perfectly to every noodle—no heavy cream required!

Tip: Swap in seasonal veggies like asparagus or cherry tomatoes for a twist.

Quick 5-Ingredient Banana Pancakes

These fluffy banana pancakes come together in minutes with just five pantry staples—perfect for lazy weekend mornings or a speedy breakfast fix.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (plus extra for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mash the bananas until smooth with only small lumps remaining. Whisk in the eggs and 1 tbsp maple syrup until fully combined.
2. Add the flour and 1/2 tsp baking powder to the bowl, stirring gently until just incorporated (a few small lumps are okay—overmixing makes tough pancakes).
3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake, cooking for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set. Flip and cook for 1–2 more minutes until golden.

The natural sweetness of the bananas means these pancakes are tender and flavorful without being overly sugary—drizzle with extra maple syrup for a caramel-like finish.

Tip: For extra-fluffy pancakes, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking to activate the baking powder.

Healthy 5-Ingredient Quinoa Salad

This vibrant quinoa salad is a breeze to whip up, packed with protein and fresh flavors—perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 large cucumber, diced (about 2 cups)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, toss cooled quinoa with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Gently toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days—the flavors meld beautifully over time!

The lemon juice adds a bright zing, while the quinoa keeps it hearty enough to stand alone as a satisfying meal. Tip: For extra crunch, toss in a handful of toasted almonds or sunflower seeds.

Delicious 5-Ingredient Caprese Sandwich

This sandwich is a fresh, no-fuss lunch hero—juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 large ciabatta roll (or 2 slices of crusty bread)
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 medium ripe tomato, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 6 large fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

1. Slice the ciabatta roll in half horizontally. Brush the cut sides lightly with 1 tbsp olive oil and toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until crisp and golden.
2. Layer the bottom half with mozzarella slices, followed by tomato slices. Sprinkle evenly with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper, then tuck in basil leaves. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
3. Close the sandwich, press gently, and slice in half. The warmth from the bread will slightly soften the mozzarella for the perfect melt-free bite.

Why it works: The toasted bread holds up to the juicy tomatoes without getting soggy, and the flaky salt amplifies every flavor.

Tip: For a tangy twist, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze—just keep it light to let the fresh ingredients shine.

Fast 5-Ingredient BBQ Pulled Pork

This fuss-free pulled pork is all about big flavor with minimal effort—perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or piled high on nachos.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder (or butt), trimmed of excess fat
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

Instructions:

1. Prep the pork: Rub the pork all over with the smoked paprika and brown sugar, pressing gently to adhere.
2. Slow cook: Place the pork in a slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar over it. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours (or HIGH for 5 hours) until fork-tender.
3. Shred & serve: Transfer the pork to a bowl and shred with two forks. Stir in 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid to keep it juicy. Serve with extra BBQ sauce.

The tangy vinegar cuts through the richness of the pork, while the smoked paprika adds a subtle depth that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Tip: For crispy edges, broil the shredded pork on a sheet pan for 3–5 minutes after mixing with the cooking liquid.

Flavorful 5-Ingredient Veggie Stir-Fry

This lightning-fast stir-fry packs a punch with just five ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something fresh and vibrant.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3 minutes until bright green but still crisp.
3. Toss in red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Reduce heat to low, then pour in soy sauce and honey. Toss constantly for 1 minute until the sauce glazes the veggies.

The magic here? The honey caramelizes just enough to balance the salty soy sauce, creating sticky-sweet edges on every crisp-tender vegetable.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with sesame seeds right before serving—they’ll toast slightly from the residual heat.

Creamy 5-Ingredient Mac and Cheese

This ultra-comforting mac and cheese is proof that simple ingredients can create magic—no fancy techniques or lengthy ingredient lists required.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt (plus more for pasta water)

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Pour in the whole milk and warm for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally (don’t let it boil).
3. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar until fully melted and smooth, about 3 minutes. Stir in the salt.
4. Add the cooked macaroni and toss until every noodle is coated in the velvety cheese sauce. Serve immediately.

The secret here? Letting the milk warm gently before adding cheese prevents grainy sauce—just creamy, dreamy perfection.

Tip: For extra richness, swap 1/2 cup of milk for heavy cream.

Easy 5-Ingredient Chocolate Mousse

This dreamy chocolate mousse is so simple, you’ll swear it’s magic—just five pantry staples and 10 minutes of hands-on time for a dessert that feels downright luxurious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream, cold
• 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate and 1/4 cup of the heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1–2 minutes total). Let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, whip the remaining 3/4 cup heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and salt with a hand mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the cooled chocolate mixture into the whipped cream in three additions, being careful not to deflate the cream.
4. Divide among serving glasses and chill for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) until set.

The secret? Whipped cream doubles as both the base and the lightener, giving this mousse its airy texture without eggs or fuss. Serve with berries or a sprinkle of sea salt for a showstopper finish.

Tip: For extra-fluffy mousse, chill your bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before whipping the cream.

Spicy 5-Ingredient Sausage Pasta

This lightning-fast pasta dish packs a punch with smoky sausage, garlic, and just enough heat to keep things interesting—perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz dried penne pasta
• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tbsp in the pan.
3. Add the minced garlic and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes to the skillet; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the drained pasta and 1/4 cup Parmesan, adding reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time to create a glossy sauce.
4. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

The magic here? The starchy pasta water and Parmesan melt into a silky sauce that clings perfectly to every noodle—no heavy cream required.

Tip: For extra depth, deglaze the skillet with 1/4 cup dry white wine after browning the sausage (just let it reduce by half before adding garlic).

Quick 5-Ingredient Avocado Toast

This creamy, crunchy avocado toast comes together in minutes but feels like a treat—perfect for lazy weekends or speedy weekday breakfasts.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Toast the sourdough bread until golden and crisp, about 3 minutes in a toaster or under a broiler.
2. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with the lime juice and flaky sea salt until slightly chunky or smooth, as preferred.
3. Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread, then sprinkle with red pepper flakes.

The lime juice adds a bright zing that balances the richness of the avocado, while the red pepper flakes give just the right kick. It’s simple but so satisfying.

Tip: For extra crunch, top with thinly sliced radishes or everything bagel seasoning.

Simple 5-Ingredient Omelette

This fuss-free omelette comes together in minutes but tastes like a weekend brunch—fluffy, cheesy, and perfectly golden.

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with the salt until just combined (small streaks of white are okay).
2. Melt the butter in an 8-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, swirling to coat the pan.
3. Pour in the eggs and let cook undisturbed for 30 seconds. Gently push the edges toward the center with a spatula, tilting the pan to let uncooked egg fill the gaps. Repeat until the top is mostly set, about 2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and chives over one half of the omelette. Fold the other half over the filling and cook for 15 more seconds to melt the cheese.
5. Slide onto a plate and serve immediately.

The secret? Low heat keeps the eggs tender, while a quick fold locks in that gooey cheese center.

Tip: For extra fluffiness, add a splash of milk to the eggs—just don’t overmix!

Healthy 5-Ingredient Smoothie Bowl

This 5-Ingredient Smoothie Bowl is like sunshine in a bowl—thick, creamy, and packed with just enough sweetness to kickstart your morning without the guilt.

• 1 frozen banana, sliced before freezing
• 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (plus 1 tbsp if needed)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1. In a blender, combine the frozen banana, frozen mango, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and honey. Blend on high until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add the extra 1 tbsp almond milk.
2. Pour into a bowl and top with your favorite granola, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of nut butter.

The magic here? The frozen fruit whips into an ultra-creamy, almost soft-serve texture—no ice needed! It’s satisfying enough to eat with a spoon but still feels light.

Tip: Freeze banana slices on a parchment-lined tray first to prevent clumping, then transfer to a bag for smoothie-ready portions.

Delicious 5-Ingredient Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers are a weeknight hero—minimal prep, maximum flavor, and a satisfying meal all in one colorful package.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish just large enough to hold the peppers upright.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, crushed tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3 minutes.
4. Spoon the mixture into the peppers, packing gently. Top each with 1/4 cup cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.

The juicy tomatoes meld with the savory beef and melted cheese, while the peppers soften just enough to hold their shape—no soggy bottoms here!

Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning over the filling before baking.

Fast 5-Ingredient Grilled Cheese

This ultra-simple grilled cheese delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Spread 1 tbsp butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
2. Place 2 slices in the skillet, buttered-side down. Sprinkle each with 1/2 cup cheddar, 1/4 cup Gruyère, and a pinch of garlic powder.
3. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered-side up. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden and cheese melts.

The combo of nutty Gruyère and tangy cheddar creates pockets of gooey perfection, while garlic powder adds a subtle savory kick.

Tip: For extra crispiness, cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute to steam-melt the cheese before flipping.

Flavorful 5-Ingredient Tomato Soup

This cozy tomato soup is proof that big flavor doesn’t need a long ingredient list—just a handful of pantry staples and 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 (28-oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Pour in 2 cans of tomatoes (with their juices), 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1 tbsp sugar. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to break up the tomatoes.
3. Carefully blend the soup with an immersion blender (or in batches in a countertop blender) until smooth. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

The magic here? The sugar balances the tomatoes’ acidity without masking their brightness—it’s like sunshine in a bowl.

Tip: For extra richness, swirl in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche before serving.

Creamy 5-Ingredient Alfredo Sauce

This velvety Alfredo sauce comes together in minutes with just a handful of pantry staples—perfect for tossing with pasta or drizzling over grilled chicken.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
2. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Reduce heat to low, then gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Stir in the salt.
4. Remove from heat and let the sauce sit for 2 minutes—it’ll thicken further as it cools slightly.

This sauce clings beautifully to fettuccine thanks to the emulsified butter and cheese, creating a glossy, restaurant-worthy finish. Tip: For extra richness, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water just before serving.

Easy 5-Ingredient Banana Bread

This no-fuss banana bread is so simple, you’ll want to bake it every time those bananas go spotty—no mixer required!

Ingredients

• 3 medium overripe bananas (about 1 1/2 cups mashed)
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, eggs, and sugar until fully combined.
3. Gently fold in the flour until just incorporated (a few lumps are okay—overmixing makes dense bread!).
4. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

The magic here? The bananas keep it moist for days, while the sugar caramelizes into a crackly, golden top. Perfect with coffee or as an afternoon snack.

Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle the batter with turbinado sugar before baking for a crunchy crust.

Quick 5-Ingredient Trail Mix

This no-fuss trail mix comes together in minutes and delivers the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and crunchy—ideal for snacking on the go or stashing in your pantry.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup roasted unsalted almonds
• 1 cup pretzel sticks (mini or broken into 1-inch pieces)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 tsp sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the roasted unsalted almonds, pretzel sticks, and dried cranberries.
2. Sprinkle the dark chocolate chips and sea salt over the mixture, then gently toss to distribute evenly.
3. Transfer to an airtight container or portion into snack bags. No baking required—just grab and go!

The contrast of rich chocolate, tart cranberries, and salty pretzels makes this mix dangerously snackable. Bonus: It’s easily customizable with whatever nuts or seeds you have on hand.

Tip: For extra freshness, store in the fridge if keeping for more than a week (especially in warmer months).

Conclusion

With 20 quick and easy 5-ingredient recipes, busy days just got a whole lot tastier! Whether you’re whipping up a speedy dinner or a last-minute snack, these fuss-free dishes are here to save the day. Give them a try, and let us know which ones are your favorites in the comments below. Don’t forget to share the love—pin this roundup for your next hectic weeknight!