17 Simple 5-Ingredient Recipes That Stop The Grocery Drama

We’ve all been there, staring at a long recipe list and dreading the extra trip to the store. That’s why I love keeping things simple with recipes that need just five ingredients. They’re perfect for busy days, save time and let you make something great without overthinking the shopping or cooking.

A plate of square pancakes drizzled with syrup, next to strawberries and a cup of maple syrup on a white tablecloth. — Sheet Pan Pancakes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

This recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with tender, roasted cabbage for a simple yet satisfying dish. With just five ingredients, it’s easy to put together and works well as a side or snack. Perfect for days when you don’t want to fuss over a complicated recipe. The air fryer speeds things up, making it a great choice for busy schedules. It’s a no-drama way to enjoy something warm and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, and a creamy dressing come together in this simple salad that works for any occasion. With just five ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. This dish is great for quick lunches or to pair with dinner. It’s light but satisfying, making it perfect for when you want something effortless. You’ll appreciate how it keeps things straightforward while delivering bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Mini Frittata

These small frittatas are packed with flavor and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack. Made with just five ingredients, they’re easy to customize and even easier to make. The individual portions are convenient and save time during busy mornings. They’re great for meal prepping or enjoying fresh out of the oven. Simple, versatile, and hassle-free, they’re ideal for anyone short on time.
Get the Recipe: Mini Frittata

Buffalo Chicken Dip

This creamy dip combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and chicken for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With just five ingredients, it’s quick to assemble and perfect for game days or gatherings. The rich and creamy texture pairs well with crackers, chips, or veggies. It’s a no-fuss recipe that delivers big on flavor. Great for when you need something fast and impressive without the extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Sliced and roasted cabbage wedges seasoned with herbs on a white plate, garnished with black pepper and fresh herbs. — Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Thick slices of cabbage are roasted to perfection, creating a warm and flavorful dish with minimal effort. With just five ingredients, this recipe is as simple as it gets while still being satisfying. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with any main course. Perfect for when you want something hearty but easy to make. You’ll love how it keeps things uncomplicated yet full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Ground Pork Burgers

Close-up of grilled pork burger patties stacked on a white plate. — Ground Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These burgers are juicy, flavorful, and made with just five ingredients, making them perfect for a quick meal. They’re easy to prepare and cook, whether on the stovetop or grill. Ideal for weeknights or casual gatherings, they pair well with your favorite toppings. This recipe is practical and keeps things simple without compromising on flavor. A great way to enjoy a homemade burger without the extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Burgers

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate. — Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These ribs are tender, juicy, and cooked quickly in the air fryer for maximum convenience. With just five ingredients, they’re perfect for a quick dinner or weekend treat. The air fryer ensures they’re cooked evenly with a slight crisp on the outside. Perfect for when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. A simple and satisfying option that delivers great results.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

A plate of pork chops stuffed with mushrooms and cheese served with green beans. — Baked Stuffed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork chops are stuffed with flavorful ingredients, making them a hearty and satisfying meal. With just five ingredients, this recipe keeps things simple while still feeling special. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or when you’re short on time. The baked preparation makes cleanup easy, so it’s practical for busy evenings. A great option for when you want something hearty but low on fuss.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

Easy Pickled Red Onions

A bowl of pickled red onions garnished with black peppercorns, placed on a white surface. — Easy Pickled Red Onions. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These tangy pickled onions are quick to make and add a bright pop of flavor to any dish. With just five ingredients, they’re a great way to elevate sandwiches, tacos, or salads. Perfect for meal prepping, they store well and are always ready to use. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a go-to for adding flavor without extra work. A practical addition to your kitchen staples.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pickled Red Onions

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate. — Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These quesadillas are loaded with tender beef and gooey cheese, making them a great choice for a quick and filling meal. With only five ingredients, they come together in no time and are perfect for lunch or dinner. The crispy tortilla adds just the right amount of crunch to each bite. This recipe is simple and practical, ideal for busy days. A family favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Sheet Pan Pancakes

Sheet pan pancakes offer a quick and easy way to serve breakfast without flipping individual pancakes. With just five ingredients, this recipe keeps things simple while still delivering warm, fluffy results. Perfect for meal prepping or serving a group with ease. They’re great for busy mornings when time is tight but you still want something homemade. A convenient way to enjoy a classic breakfast without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Pancakes

Sheet Pan Eggs with Bacon

Sheet pan with cooked eggs, spinach, tomatoes, broccoli, and bacon. — Sheet Pan Eggs with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This recipe combines eggs and bacon on one sheet pan for a no-mess, all-in-one breakfast. With just five ingredients, it’s perfect for busy mornings or meal prepping for the week. The sheet pan method makes cleanup quick and easy. Perfect for when you need a warm breakfast without spending too much time in the kitchen. A simple way to enjoy a classic combination without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Eggs with Bacon

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

These onion rings are wrapped in smoky bacon and cooked to crispy perfection, making them a great snack or appetizer. With only five ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and full of bold flavor. The combination of soft onion and crisp bacon creates a satisfying bite every time. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or whenever you want a quick and easy treat. A practical recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Two halves of baked sweet potato topped with butter and garnished with herbs on a white plate, with a red checkered napkin on the side. — Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These sweet potatoes are cooked in the air fryer for a soft inside and slightly crisp outside. With just five ingredients, they’re a great side dish or snack for any meal. The air fryer makes them quick and easy, perfect for busy days or weeknight dinners. A simple recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Practical and flavorful without extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

A plate of salmon on a white plate with lemon slices on it. — Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This sauce is rich and tangy, making it the perfect topping for salmon or any fish dish. With only five ingredients, it’s quick to prepare and adds a burst of flavor to your meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to add something extra to your dish without too much work. The smooth texture and bright flavor make it versatile and practical. A simple way to enhance your favorite seafood.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

Slow Cooker Rice

A spoonful of slow-cooked white rice held above a bowl, with a fresh green parsley leaf in the background. — Slow Cooker Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This recipe simplifies cooking rice by using a slow cooker, freeing up your time for other tasks. With just five ingredients, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it option that works well for busy days. Perfect for meal prepping or serving as a side dish for any meal. The rice comes out perfectly cooked every time with minimal effort. A practical and hands-off approach to a kitchen staple.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rice

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background. — Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These carrots are coated in a sweet maple glaze and cooked quickly in the air fryer, making them a great side dish. With just five ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. The air fryer method ensures even cooking and a slight caramelization on the outside. Perfect for adding a touch of warmth and sweetness to your meal. A simple way to enjoy a vegetable dish without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer