We’ve all been there - it’s 6:30 PM, everyone’s hungry, and there’s no dinner plan in sight. Maybe you forgot to defrost something. Maybe the day got away from you. Whatever the reason, you need something fast, easy, and actually edible - now.
This is where our last minute dinner ideas save the day.
Below, we’ve gathered our favorite go-to recipes for those “uh-oh” moments. No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients, just real dinners you can throw together fast.
When we say last minute, we’re talking about meals that:
These aren't just emergency meals - they're smart, satisfying recipes you’ll want to make again, even when you’re not in a rush.
Here are 10 reliable, low-stress dinners you can whip up without breaking a sweat (or a grocery run).
Sauté shrimp and crisp broccoli in a garlicky soy-based sauce - all in just 15 minutes. This fast stir fry is light, protein-packed, and delivers bold flavor without complicated prep or cleanup.
view recipeCreamy, garlicky, and made in one skillet - this five-ingredient chicken pasta is the definition of easy comfort food. With juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a simple white sauce, it’s fast, cozy, and ideal for weeknights.
view recipeSkip the oven - this no-bake tuna noodle casserole is made on the stovetop with canned tuna, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce. It’s quick comfort food made from classic pantry staples.
view recipeDinner doesn't get easier than this. Just toss frozen gnocchi with olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini, then roast or sauté until golden. No boiling required. The result? A pillowy, flavorful dish with minimal effort and maximum payoff. Perfect for those nights you need something fast and tasty.
view recipeThese turkey meatballs are juicy, lightly seasoned, and cooked fast in one skillet. Perfect for family dinners, they pair well with pasta, salad, or even tucked into a wrap - and they come together in under 30 minutes.
view recipeCanned tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil create a simple, rustic sauce that coats your favorite pasta perfectly. This dinner is pantry-friendly, fast, and full of flavor - no jarred sauce needed.
view recipeThis cozy one-pot curry brings canned chickpeas, coconut milk, and colorful veggies together in a rich, fragrant sauce. Spiced just right and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect meatless meal when you want something hearty, healthy, and satisfying - without spending all night in the kitchen.
view recipeThis fast, comforting vegan ramen bowl is loaded with noodles, veggies, and a rich, veggie broth. It’s 100% plant-based and 100% delicious - perfect for cozy weeknights or easy meal prep that delivers on slurpable comfort.
view recipeWith just canned beans, cooked rice, and seasonings, this dinner is as easy as it gets. It's warm, filling, and budget-friendly - a go-to when the fridge is empty but you still want real food.
view recipeThis easy dinner starts with store-bought rotisserie chicken and builds from there. Paired with rice or mashed potatoes and vegetables or salad, it’s a no-fuss way to turn leftovers into something fresh and filling.
view recipeTip #1. Stock Your Pantry and Freezer Smartly
Keep go-to items like canned beans, frozen veggies, pasta, rice, and a protein option on hand.
Tip #2. Batch-Prep Your Basics
Cooking a pot of rice or chopping extra veggies earlier in the week can make dinner a breeze.
Tip #3. Use Shortcuts Proudly
Rotisserie chicken, pre-chopped veggies, and frozen meals are tools - not cheats.
Tip #4. Don’t Skip Seasoning
A little garlic powder, soy sauce, or chili flakes can take a simple meal from “meh” to amazing.
When you need dinner now, these are the kitchen essentials we reach for again and again - and are all available on Amazon:
Deep Non-Stick Skillet with Lid
Great for one-pan pastas, stir-fries, or quick curries. Cooks evenly and cleans up fast.
Electric Kettle
Cuts water boiling time for pasta, ramen, or anything that needs hot water fast.
Pre-Cut Parchment Sheets
Speed up cleanup on sheet pan meals or when toasting frozen gnocchi.
Mini Food Chopper
When you’re short on time but want fresh garlic, herbs, or onions - this saves your fingers and your patience.
Microwave-Safe Mixing Bowl
For quick prep and even quicker cleanup. Doubles as your dinner bowl in a pinch.
Try our Vegan Chickpea Curry or Beans and Rice Dinner. Both use shelf-stable ingredients, are high in protein and fiber, and come together in under 25 minutes.
Plan loosely - keep versatile ingredients on hand, and use them in multiple recipes during the week. Frozen veggies, canned proteins, and grains are your best friends.
Stuck on What to Cook Tonight?
Click the “Inspire Me” button and let us surprise you with a delicious dinner idea - fast, easy, and hand-picked from our most-loved recipes
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