Making dinner doesn’t have to be a time-consuming task. These cooking shortcuts will help you get a delicious meal on the table faster and with less stress. The time you save will let you spend more time enjoying your evening.
Want to save this post?
Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox. Plus, I'll send you the latest recipes and tips every week!
Pre-Chop Vegetables
Cut down on prep time by chopping vegetables ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge, so they're ready to throw into a stir-fry, salad, or soup when you need them. You can also buy pre-chopped veggies at the store to save even more time. Related recipe: Chicken Chop Suey
Use Rotisserie Chicken
Save time by picking up a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. It’s perfect for shredding into tacos, salads, casseroles, or sandwiches. It’s already cooked and seasoned, so you can focus on assembling the rest of your meal. Related recipe: Filipino Pancit
Cook Once, Eat Twice
Double your recipe when cooking certain dishes like soups, casseroles, or pasta sauces. Freeze the extras for a future meal or use them for lunch the next day. This shortcut reduces the need for cooking every day. Related recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Embrace Sheet Pan Dinners
Sheet pan meals allow you to cook your entire dinner on one pan. Just toss your protein and vegetables on a baking sheet and roast. Not only does it simplify cooking, but it also minimizes cleanup. Related recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon
Use a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
These kitchen gadgets are lifesavers for busy nights. Toss your ingredients in a slow cooker in the morning or use an Instant Pot to get the same results in a fraction of the time, with little effort on your part. Related recipe: Slow Cooker Chili
Stock Up on Frozen Vegetables
Frozen vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh ones and come pre-washed and chopped. They can be steamed, sautéed, or tossed directly into soups and casseroles, cutting down prep and cook time. Related recipe: Seafood Pot Pie
Pre-Make Marinades and Sauces
Whip up large batches of your favorite marinades and sauces ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. When it’s time to cook, simply toss your protein or veggies in for quick flavor without extra effort. Related recipe: Carne Asada in the Oven
Cook Pasta in the Sauce
Skip the extra pot by cooking your pasta directly in its sauce. Just add water or broth to your sauce and let the pasta simmer until it’s cooked through. This technique adds more flavor to the pasta and saves you from washing another pot.
Use Pre-Cooked Grains
Save time by using pre-cooked grains like rice, quinoa, or farro. Many grocery stores offer these options in the frozen or refrigerated sections. You can also cook a big batch of grains on the weekend and use them throughout the week. Related recipe: Mexican Rice
Keep a Well-Stocked Pantry
A well-stocked pantry means you can throw together a meal quickly without running to the store. Keep staples like canned beans, pasta, broth, and spices on hand so you can make simple, satisfying dinners with minimal prep.
Comments
No Comments