Life can get hectic, and sometimes dinner needs to come together in a flash.
Whether you’re juggling work, family, or unexpected guests, having a repertoire of last-minute dinner recipes can be a lifesaver.
These 22+ last minute dinner recipes are designed to be quick, easy, and delicious, using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
From speedy pasta dishes to fresh salads and one-pan wonders, this collection ensures you can put a satisfying meal on the table without stress or long prep times.
22+ Delicious Last Minute Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Having a variety of quick and reliable last-minute dinner recipes at your disposal makes busy evenings so much easier.
These 22+ recipes prove that fast doesn’t have to mean boring or unhealthy.
With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can create meals that are both flavorful and comforting, no matter how little time you have.
Keep these recipes in your back pocket for those hectic days when you want dinner done fast and well.
Garlic Butter Shrimp
This garlic butter shrimp recipe is a quick, flavorful dinner perfect for those busy nights when you need something fast yet impressive.
The shrimp cook in a luscious garlic and butter sauce that’s both rich and simple.
Ingredients:
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Garlic, minced
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Toss in shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about two to three minutes per side. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkle fresh parsley on top.
This dish is incredibly quick to prepare but doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Serve it with steamed rice, pasta, or a simple salad for a satisfying last-minute dinner that feels special.
Veggie Stir-Fry
Veggie stir-fry is a versatile and fast meal that makes use of whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand.
The bright, crisp veggies cooked with a savory sauce come together in minutes for a healthy, delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
- Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
- Garlic and ginger, minced
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Olive or sesame oil
- Green onions
- Cooked rice or noodles
Instructions:
Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add garlic and ginger, then toss in the vegetables. Stir-fry until crisp-tender. Splash in soy sauce and toss to coat evenly. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles.
This quick stir-fry is a fantastic way to get dinner on the table in no time while still enjoying fresh, nutritious ingredients.
It’s adaptable and perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Chicken and Vegetables
One-pan chicken and vegetables is a straightforward, hearty dinner that cooks all in one dish for easy prep and cleanup.
Juicy chicken breasts roast alongside colorful vegetables seasoned with herbs for a balanced meal.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts
- Baby potatoes, halved
- Carrots, sliced
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper
Instructions:
Preheat oven and toss vegetables with olive oil and seasoning on a baking sheet. Nestle chicken breasts among the veggies, drizzle with more olive oil, and season. Roast until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender, about thirty to forty minutes.
This recipe is perfect when you want a wholesome meal with minimal fuss.
It’s filling, flavorful, and leaves your kitchen mess-free, ideal for last-minute dinners.
Caprese Pasta Salad
This Caprese pasta salad is a fresh, no-cook dinner that comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil tossed with pasta and a light vinaigrette make it perfect for a last-minute meal.
Ingredients:
- Cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh mozzarella balls
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately or chilled.
This dish is bright, flavorful, and easy to customize with whatever you have on hand.
It’s an ideal last-minute dinner that feels fresh and satisfying without any fuss.
Quick Veggie Quesadilla
A quick veggie quesadilla is a perfect last-minute dinner when you want something cheesy, crunchy, and packed with vegetables.
It’s easy to make on the stovetop and ready in minutes.
Ingredients:
- Flour or corn tortillas
- Shredded cheese (dairy or dairy-free)
- Bell peppers, thinly sliced
- Onions, thinly sliced
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Salsa and guacamole for serving
Instructions:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté bell peppers and onions until tender. Remove veggies and wipe the pan clean. Place a tortilla in the pan, sprinkle cheese on half, add cooked veggies, and fold over. Cook until golden and cheese melts, flipping once.
These quesadillas are crispy, cheesy, and flavorful with minimal prep.
Serve with salsa and guacamole for a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Chickpea Curry
Chickpea curry is a simple, hearty dish that can be made quickly using canned chickpeas and pantry spices.
It’s a flavorful, protein-rich meal that’s perfect for when time is short.
Ingredients:
- Canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic and ginger, minced
- Canned tomatoes
- Coconut milk
- Curry powder, turmeric, cumin
- Oil, salt, and pepper
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in oil until soft. Add spices and cook briefly to release aromas. Stir in tomatoes and coconut milk, then add chickpeas. Simmer until thickened and flavorful. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
This curry is comforting and filling, offering rich flavors with minimal effort—perfect for last-minute dinners that don’t skimp on taste.
Spinach and Feta Omelette
A spinach and feta omelette is a quick and nutritious dinner option that’s ready in minutes.
Packed with protein and vibrant greens, it’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal when time is tight.
Ingredients:
- Eggs
- Fresh spinach, chopped
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Whisk eggs with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a non-stick pan, sauté spinach until wilted. Pour eggs over spinach, sprinkle feta on top, and cook until set. Fold the omelette and serve immediately.
This dish combines creamy feta with fresh spinach for a delicious dinner that’s simple and speedy—ideal for last-minute meals that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.
Tuna Salad Wrap
Tuna salad wrap is a no-cook, fresh dinner solution that comes together in minutes using pantry staples and simple ingredients.
It’s portable, light, and customizable.
Ingredients:
- Canned tuna, drained
- Mayonnaise or dairy-free alternative
- Celery, finely chopped
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Large tortillas or wraps
- Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
Mix tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Lay out a tortilla, add lettuce, and spoon the tuna salad onto it. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice in half.
This wrap is fresh, crunchy, and satisfying, making it an excellent go-to dinner when you need something quick, easy, and nutritious.
Quick Fried Rice
Quick fried rice uses leftover rice and whatever veggies you have for a speedy, comforting dinner.
It’s a great way to reduce waste while enjoying a flavorful meal with minimal prep.
Ingredients:
- Cooked rice (preferably chilled)
- Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- Eggs (optional)
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Garlic and green onions
- Oil
Instructions:
Heat oil in a wok or large skillet, sauté garlic and veggies until tender. Push veggies aside and scramble eggs in the pan if using. Add rice and soy sauce, stir-fry until heated through. Garnish with chopped green onions.
This quick fried rice is a delicious, customizable last-minute dinner that comes together fast and keeps you satisfied.
Black Bean Tacos
Black bean tacos are a speedy, nutritious dinner perfect for last-minute meals.
Using canned black beans and simple seasonings, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- Taco seasoning or a mix of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Avocado slices
- Salsa
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions:
Heat black beans in a pan with taco seasoning until warmed through. Warm tortillas and fill with the seasoned beans. Top with avocado, salsa, and cilantro.
These tacos are fresh, filling, and packed with flavor—ideal for a quick, satisfying dinner when time is short.
Pesto Zucchini Noodles
Pesto zucchini noodles (zoodles) make for a light, fast dinner with fresh flavors and minimal cooking.
It’s a great low-carb alternative to pasta that you can prepare in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
- Zucchini, spiralized
- Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Olive oil
- Pine nuts (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Sauté zucchini noodles briefly in olive oil just until tender. Toss with pesto and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with pine nuts and season to taste.
This dish is bright, fresh, and ready in a flash—perfect when you want a healthy last-minute dinner that’s both delicious and easy.
Chicken Caesar Salad
Chicken Caesar salad is a classic, quick dinner option that combines crisp greens, grilled chicken, and tangy dressing.
It’s perfect for nights when you want something light but filling.
Ingredients:
- Cooked chicken breast, sliced
- Romaine lettuce, chopped
- Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Croutons
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Toss lettuce with Caesar dressing, top with chicken slices and croutons. Sprinkle with Parmesan if desired.
This salad comes together fast and offers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors, making it a reliable last-minute dinner favorite.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish that comes together in minutes using just a few pantry staples.
Garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes create a flavorful sauce that’s simple yet satisfying for a last-minute dinner.
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti
- Garlic, thinly sliced
- Olive oil
- Red chili flakes
- Fresh parsley
- Salt
Instructions:
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Meanwhile, gently sauté garlic in olive oil until golden. Toss cooked pasta with the garlic oil, chili flakes, and chopped parsley. Season with salt to taste and serve immediately.
This dish is quick, light, and bursting with flavor, perfect when you want a comforting meal without spending much time in the kitchen.
Greek Salad with Chickpeas
Greek salad with chickpeas is a fresh, wholesome meal that can be whipped up in no time.
It’s loaded with crunchy vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and tangy dressing, making it a great last-minute dinner option.
Ingredients:
- Canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Cucumber, chopped
- Tomatoes, chopped
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Kalamata olives
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Oregano
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Combine chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and olives in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper, then toss to mix.
This salad is refreshing, nutritious, and super quick to make, ideal for a light and easy dinner.
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
Sheet pan sausage and veggies is a hassle-free dinner that requires minimal prep and cleanup.
Toss sausage and mixed vegetables with seasonings, roast until golden, and enjoy a flavorful, balanced meal in under an hour.
Ingredients:
- Sausages (any variety)
- Bell peppers, sliced
- Zucchini, sliced
- Red onion, sliced
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Preheat oven, toss sausage and vegetables with olive oil, seasoning, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast until sausages are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
This one-pan meal is perfect for busy nights when you want a hearty, delicious dinner with minimal effort.
Avocado Toast with Poached Egg
Avocado toast with a poached egg is a quick, nutritious dinner that’s both creamy and satisfying.
The combination of ripe avocado and runny egg makes for a delicious meal in minutes.
Ingredients:
- Bread slices (toasted)
- Ripe avocado
- Eggs
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Mash avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spread generously on toasted bread. Poach eggs until whites are set but yolks are runny. Place eggs on top of avocado toast and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
This dish is simple yet elegant, perfect for a light and speedy last-minute dinner that feels indulgent without the fuss.
Veggie Fried Rice
Veggie fried rice is a quick, tasty dinner that transforms leftover rice and mixed vegetables into a flavorful one-pan meal.
It’s colorful, nutritious, and ready in minutes.
Ingredients:
- Cooked rice (preferably chilled)
- Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- Garlic, minced
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Oil
- Green onions, chopped
Instructions:
Heat oil in a pan, sauté garlic and mixed vegetables until tender. Add rice and soy sauce, stir-fry until heated through. Garnish with chopped green onions.
This dish is a perfect last-minute dinner, offering a comforting, balanced meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
Chicken Stir-Fry
Chicken stir-fry is a fast and versatile dinner option that’s packed with protein and veggies.
It’s ideal for busy nights when you want something healthy and satisfying on the table quickly.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breast, thinly sliced
- Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
- Garlic and ginger, minced
- Soy sauce or stir-fry sauce
- Oil
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
Heat oil in a wok or skillet, cook chicken until browned. Remove and set aside. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and vegetables until crisp-tender. Return chicken to the pan, add sauce, and cook until heated through. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
This quick stir-fry is full of vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for a delicious last-minute dinner that feels homemade.
Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato basil soup is a comforting and quick dinner option that’s rich in flavor and perfect for chilly evenings.
Made with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s a healthy and satisfying choice that requires minimal prep.
Ingredients:
- Tomatoes, chopped or canned
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Vegetable broth
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add tomatoes and broth, simmer for about 15 minutes. Blend the mixture until smooth, return to heat, and stir in chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This soup is velvety, aromatic, and quick to make, offering a soothing last-minute dinner that warms you up instantly.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Greek yogurt chicken salad is a creamy, protein-packed meal that comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
It’s perfect for a light and refreshing dinner or a hearty lunch.
Ingredients:
- Cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- Greek yogurt
- Celery, chopped
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Lemon juice
- Dill or parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Combine chicken, yogurt, celery, onion, lemon juice, and herbs in a bowl. Mix well and season with salt and pepper. Serve on its own, in a wrap, or over greens.
This chicken salad is fresh, tangy, and filling, making it an ideal quick dinner that requires no cooking.
Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with garlicky, buttery flavors. It’s elegant enough for guests but easy enough for a last-minute weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Garlic, minced
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook until pink. Finish with lemon juice and chopped parsley.
This dish is bright, flavorful, and ready in minutes, perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner.
Conclusion
When time is tight, the last thing you want is to sacrifice taste or nutrition. The 22+ last minute dinner recipes highlighted here offer quick solutions that don’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction. From light and fresh dishes to hearty one-pan meals, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to make dinnertime easier and more enjoyable. Embrace these quick recipes and transform busy nights into moments of delicious simplicity.
