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    Home / Collections

    17 Simple 5-Ingredient Recipes You Can’t Mess Up

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Oct 5, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    When life gets busy, the last thing you want is a complicated recipe that requires a long list of ingredients. That's where these 5-ingredient recipes come in. They're perfect for anyone who loves great food but doesn't have the time or energy to deal with anything too complex. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are designed to be easy, reliable, and quick.

    One of the best things about these recipes is that they prove you don't need a ton of ingredients to create something delicious. With just five simple components, you can upgrade meals that are both satisfying and full of flavor. This makes them ideal for weeknight dinners, last-minute meals, or when you're looking to keep things simple without sacrificing taste.

    I've handpicked these recipes because they're practically foolproof. You won't need to stress about messing them up, which is perfect when you want to keep things low-key in the kitchen. So, if you're looking for straightforward, no-fuss cooking that still delivers on flavor, these 5-ingredient recipes are exactly what you need.

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

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    Slow Cooker Rice

    Slow cooker rice is a hassle-free side dish that's perfect when you want something simple with minimal ingredients. With just five components, it's easy to set and forget, making it an ideal choice for busy days. The rice turns out fluffy every time, making it a reliable base for a variety of meals. Whether you're preparing a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-have in your collection. It's straightforward, dependable, and takes the stress out of cooking rice.
    Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rice

    Buffalo Chicken Dip

    Buffalo chicken dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's both simple and flavorful. With only five ingredients, this dip is quick to assemble and packs a punch with its tangy and spicy flavor. Perfect for game day or a casual get-together, it's an easy choice when you need something delicious that you can't mess up. The dip is creamy, cheesy, and has just the right amount of heat, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. This no-fail dip will have everyone coming back for more.
    Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

    Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

    Maple glazed carrots in the air fryer offer a sweet and savory side dish that's ready in minutes. Using only five ingredients, these carrots are coated in a delicious maple glaze that's sure to complement any meal. The air fryer makes preparation quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy perfectly cooked carrots with minimal effort. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is both simple and foolproof. A great addition to your list of easy, go-to side dishes.
    Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

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

    Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

    Air fryer sweet potatoes are a quick and easy side dish that requires just five ingredients. These sweet potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a versatile option for any meal. The air fryer cuts down on cooking time, so you can enjoy this healthy side with minimal prep and cleanup. Perfect for busy nights when you want a reliable and tasty dish. It's an easy recipe that delivers great results every time.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

    Sheet Pan Eggs with Bacon

    Sheet pan eggs with bacon is a convenient breakfast option that's both easy to make and satisfying. With only five ingredients, you can prepare a hearty meal for the whole family in one go. The sheet pan method simplifies the cooking process, ensuring everything is cooked evenly and with minimal effort. This recipe is ideal for busy mornings when you need a quick, no-fuss breakfast. It's a simple way to enjoy a classic combination without the mess.
    Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Eggs with Bacon

    Mini Frittata

    Mini frittatas are a versatile and easy breakfast option, made with just five ingredients. These small, flavorful egg dishes are perfect for a quick morning meal or a light lunch. The recipe is straightforward, allowing you to prepare them in advance for busy days. They're easy to customize with your favorite fillings and require minimal cleanup. A great go-to when you want a simple, healthy, and delicious breakfast that's hard to mess up.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Frittata

    A plate of broccoli salad with bits of bacon, served on a white oval dish alongside a wooden spoon.Pin
    Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Broccoli Salad with Bacon

    Broccoli salad with bacon is a simple and satisfying side dish that combines fresh flavors with a bit of crunch. Using just five ingredients, this salad is quick to prepare and offers a tasty balance of savory and sweet. It's perfect for a barbecue, potluck, or as a fresh addition to your weeknight dinner. This no-fail recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to please. A reliable salad that's both quick and full of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

    Sheet Pan Pancakes

    Sheet pan pancakes offer a simple and convenient way to make breakfast for a group. With only five ingredients, this recipe allows you to prepare a large batch of pancakes without the hassle of flipping. It's perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and reliable breakfast that everyone will enjoy. The pancakes are light, fluffy, and evenly cooked, making them a no-fail option for any occasion. A great way to serve a crowd with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Pancakes

    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage is a unique and easy side dish that's perfect when you want something different. With just five ingredients, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with tender cabbage, creating a tasty dish that's ready in minutes. The air fryer ensures the bacon is crispy while the cabbage remains tender, making it a quick and reliable option for any meal. It's a simple recipe that adds a bit of flair to your dinner table.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    A bowl of sliced pickled red onions garnished with black peppercorns.Pin
    Easy Pickled Red Onions. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Easy Pickled Red Onions

    Easy pickled red onions are a versatile and flavorful addition to any dish. Made with just five ingredients, these onions are quick to prepare and can elevate your meals with their tangy taste. Perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or tacos, this no-fail recipe is a great way to add a burst of flavor to your cooking. The onions can be made in advance, making them a convenient option for busy days. A simple and reliable recipe that's sure to become a kitchen staple.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Pickled Red Onions

    Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

    Lemon butter sauce for salmon is a quick and easy way to enhance your fish dishes with rich, tangy flavors. With only five ingredients, this sauce is simple to make and adds a burst of freshness to your meal. It's perfect for drizzling over salmon or other seafood, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. The sauce comes together in minutes, ensuring that you have a delicious and foolproof option for any dinner. A must-have recipe for seafood lovers.
    Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

    Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

    Baked stuffed pork chops are a hearty and satisfying main dish that's easy to prepare with just five ingredients. This recipe delivers tender pork chops with flavorful stuffing, making it a great option for a comforting dinner. The simple ingredients ensure that the dish is easy to put together, even on busy nights. Perfect for a family meal, these pork chops are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. A straightforward recipe that delivers big on flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops

    Stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and meat, garnished with herbs, served with dips on a white plate.Pin
    Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Beef Quesadillas

    Beef quesadillas are a quick and easy meal option that's both filling and flavorful. With just five ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a simple lunch or dinner that you can't mess up. The quesadillas are packed with savory beef and melted cheese, making them a satisfying choice for any time of day. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, these quesadillas are sure to become a favorite in your home. A reliable and delicious option for busy days.
    Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Air fryer baby back ribs offer a quick and easy way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs without the need for a grill. Using just five ingredients, this recipe ensures the ribs are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. It's an ideal choice for a no-fuss meal that delivers big on taste with minimal effort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, these ribs are a foolproof way to enjoy a classic dish. A simple recipe that's sure to impress.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Ground Pork Burgers

    Ground pork burgers are a simple and flavorful option for a quick meal. Made with just five ingredients, these burgers are easy to prepare and deliver a juicy, tender bite. They're perfect for a casual lunch or dinner when you want something reliable and tasty. The recipe is straightforward, making it a no-fail option that's sure to please. A great choice for those nights when you need a quick and delicious meal.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Burgers

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

    Roasted Cabbage Steaks

    Roasted cabbage steaks are a simple and healthy side dish that's ready with just five ingredients. These cabbage steaks are roasted to perfection, offering a tender and flavorful option for any meal. The recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistent results, making it a reliable choice for busy nights. Perfect for pairing with your favorite main dish, these cabbage steaks are a great addition to your recipe collection. A straightforward and satisfying side dish that's hard to mess up.
    Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

    Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

    Bacon wrapped onion rings are a fun and easy appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. With just five ingredients, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the crunch of onion rings, creating a delicious snack that's ready in minutes. The recipe is simple to follow, making it a no-fail option for parties or game day. These onion rings are sure to be a hit, offering a unique twist on a classic favorite. A quick and easy recipe that's guaranteed to please.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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