18 Quick Recipes for One Perfect for Solo Dining

Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and satisfaction just because you’re cooking for one? Look no further! With these 18 quick and easy recipes, you can enjoy a delicious meal all to yourself without having to compromise on taste or portion size.

From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and beef stroganoff, to international flavors like stir-fry noodles and caprese stuffed avocado, we’ve got you covered. And the best part? Each recipe is designed specifically for one person, so you can indulge in your favorite dishes without worrying about leftovers or reheating.

Garlic Butter Steak with Asparagus

This classic combination of flavors and textures is a staple for any occasion. Pan-seared steak smothered in garlicky butter and served alongside tender asparagus, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
3. Season steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
5. Remove steak from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic butter mixture to skillet and stir until melted and slightly caramelized.
6. Toss asparagus with salt and pepper. Add to skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
7. Serve steak with asparagus and spoon garlic butter sauce over top.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Single-Serve Mac and Cheese

This recipe yields a creamy, comforting macaroni and cheese dish in just one serving. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup cooked macaroni
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the microwave to high.
2. In a single-serving ceramic bowl, combine cooked macaroni, butter, and flour.
3. Mix until the butter is fully incorporated and the mixture forms a smooth paste.
4. Add milk and stir until well combined.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top of the pasta mixture.
6. Microwave for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes

One-Pan Chicken Alfredo

Quickly cook a creamy and satisfying meal with this One-Pan Chicken Alfredo recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of butter. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Stir in cooked fettuccine pasta, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the pasta mixture.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes

Mini Margherita Pizza

Experience the classic Italian flavors of a margherita pizza in a bite-sized package with this easy-to-make recipe. These mini pizzas are perfect for parties, snacking, or as a fun twist on traditional pizza.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Cut into small squares, about 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) per side.
3. Place a small spoonful of tomato sauce in the center of each square. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped basil leaves.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing the edges to seal.
5. Brush the tops with a little water and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Brighten up your pasta night with this zesty and flavorful dish, combining succulent shrimp with the warmth of garlic and the brightness of lemon.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Individual Beef Stroganoff

A classic comfort food recipe, this Individual Beef Stroganoff serves one perfectly. With tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich creamy sauce, it’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1/4 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the beef strips to desired doneness; set aside.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in sour cream, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cooked beef.
7. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Caprese Stuffed Avocado

Elevate your snack game with this refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad. Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil come together in a creamy, dreamy avocado vessel.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the diced tomato and chopped basil.
3. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each avocado half.
4. Top with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 5 minutes.

Single-Serving Pancakes

Savor a warm, fluffy pancake all to yourself with this simple recipe. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) milk
– 1/2 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon melted butter, cooled slightly
– 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together egg, milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Add the melted butter, whisking until smooth.
3. Gradually add the flour, whisking until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Pour the batter into a non-stick skillet or griddle heated to medium heat (375°F/190°C).
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes total

One-Bowl Chocolate Mug Cake

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and decadent One-Bowl Chocolate Mug Cake, ready in just a few minutes!

Ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 tablespoon milk
– 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. Mix until smooth.
3. If using, add chocolate chips or shavings on top of the batter.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power level.
5. Let cake cool for a minute before serving.

Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes

Enjoy your gooey, chocolatey treat!

Quick Fried Rice for One

This recipe serves one and can be whipped up in just a few minutes. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner when you’re short on time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Pour in the beaten egg and scramble until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetables for about 2 minutes, or until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Add the cooked egg back into the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: Approximately 5-7 minutes

Egg Drop Soup for Solo Enjoyment

A classic Chinese soup, Egg Drop Soup is a comforting and soothing treat that can be easily enjoyed on your own. This recipe serves one and takes only 15 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a medium saucepan.
2. Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk lightly.
3. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the simmering broth, stirring gently with a spoon to create thin, egg-drop-like strands.
4. Add the sesame oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the egg to set.
6. Ladle the soup into a bowl and garnish with fresh scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Mini Shepherd’s Pie

A bite-sized twist on the classic comfort food, these mini shepherd’s pies are perfect for snacking or as a small meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas and carrots)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in flour, butter, and beef broth; bring mixture to a boil.
5. Transfer meat mixture to 12 mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins.
6. Top each with mashed potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Single-Serve Spinach and Feta Quiche

This recipe yields a delicious and savory single-serve quiche perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snack time. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a flavorful treat in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and butter until smooth.
3. Add the flour, feta cheese, and chopped spinach to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into a single-serve ramekin or mini quiche dish.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

One-Pot Pasta Primavera

A flavorful and colorful pasta dish packed with sautéed vegetables, herbs, and a hint of lemon.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and thyme.
5. Add cooked pasta to the pot, tossing to combine with sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Personalized Stir-Fry Noodles

Get creative with this customizable stir-fry noodle recipe! With your choice of protein and veggies, you can make it a meal that suits your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. noodles (rice, wheat, or quinoa-based)
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 2 tbsp. cooking oil
– 1/2 cup cooked protein of your choice (chicken, beef, tofu, etc.)
– 2 tsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add mixed veggies and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cooked protein and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
6. Combine noodles with the stir-fry mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Mini Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes

This recipe serves 4-6 mini meatloaves, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer. With its comforting combination of juicy meat and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 4-6 mini loaf pans (1.5 inches x 3 inches)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup milk
– Butter or margarine for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4-6 portions and shape each portion into a mini loaf.
4. Place loaves in prepared pans and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatloaves are baking, boil chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with milk and butter or margarine.
6. Serve mini meatloaves with mashed potatoes and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Single-Serving Berry Parfait

Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that’s packed with nutritious berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Add 1/2 cup of mixed berries on top of the yogurt.
4. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granola over the berries.
5. Repeat the layers: yogurt, berries, and granola.
6. Drizzle with vanilla extract and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None! This parfait is ready in just a few minutes.

Quick and Easy Omelette for One

A simple and satisfying breakfast or snack that can be ready in just a few minutes. This recipe makes one omelette, perfect for a solo meal or as a base for adding other ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional fillings (choose one or more): diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms), shredded cheese, diced ham or bacon

Instructions:

1. Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk it lightly with a fork.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for 30-45 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the edges of the omelette towards the center.
5. Add any desired fillings to one half of the omelette.
6. Fold the other half over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
7. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the cheese is melted (if using) and the omelette is fully set.
8. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes

Summary

Looking for quick and delicious meals that are perfect for solo dining? Look no further! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that cater to your individual needs.

From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Steak with Asparagus and One-Pane Chicken Alfredo, to sweet treats like Single-Serving Pancakes and Berry Parfait, there’s something for everyone.

Each recipe is carefully crafted to serve one person, making it ideal for busy schedules or personal indulgence. Get ready to delight your taste buds and enjoy a culinary experience tailored just for you!