15 Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinners Using Only Pantry Staples

When your schedule gets hectic, cooking a wholesome dinner from scratch can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, pantry staples like canned beans, pasta, and spices can quickly transform into delicious meals with minimal effort. These easy weeknight recipes prove that you don’t need a full fridge to create satisfying dishes in no time.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This Italian classic is a simple dish made with spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Boil 8 oz of spaghetti until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water. In a pan, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat and sauté 4 minced garlic cloves until golden. Toss in the drained pasta and reserved water, adding 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes for a kick. Sprinkle with salt and parsley, and you’ve got a delicious dinner in under 20 minutes. Aglio e Olio is perfect when you need a flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Chickpea Curry

Chickpea curry is a hearty and nutritious dish using pantry staples like canned chickpeas, coconut milk, and curry powder. Drain and rinse two cans of chickpeas and sauté them with one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves in a tablespoon of oil. Add 2 tbsp curry powder, a 14-oz can of coconut milk, and one can of diced tomatoes. Simmer for 15 minutes, then serve over rice or with flatbread. This quick curry delivers bold flavors and can be customized with your favorite spices.

Black Bean Quesadillas

Black bean quesadillas are a quick, satisfying meal that requires minimal prep. Drain and rinse one can of black beans, mash them lightly, and spread onto half of a flour tortilla. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, cumin, and chili powder before folding the tortilla in half. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes per side. Serve with salsa or sour cream for a simple, tasty dinner that’s ready in no time.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a comforting and hearty dish made entirely from pantry staples. Sauté one diced onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks in a tablespoon of olive oil. Add one cup of dried lentils, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and one can of diced tomatoes. Season with thyme, bay leaves, and salt, then simmer for 30 minutes until the lentils are tender. This soup is filling, healthy, and perfect for a cold evening.

Tuna Pasta

Tuna pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that combines canned tuna, pasta, and a few simple seasonings. Cook 8 oz of pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water. Drain two cans of tuna in olive oil and toss with the pasta, adding the reserved water, a squeeze of lemon, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan. Stir in a handful of capers or olives for added flavor. This dish is perfect for a busy night when you need something tasty in a flash.

Tomato Rice

Tomato rice is a simple and flavorful side or main dish using just a few pantry staples. Sauté one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves in a tablespoon of oil, then stir in 1 1/2 cups of rice and toast for 2 minutes. Add one can of diced tomatoes, 3 cups of chicken broth, and 1 tsp cumin. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender. This dish is versatile and pairs well with beans, grilled meats, or on its own.

Peanut Butter Noodles

Peanut butter noodles are a savory, creamy dish made with pantry staples like peanut butter and soy sauce. Cook 8 oz of noodles according to the package instructions and drain. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp sugar. Toss the noodles in the sauce, adding a splash of water if necessary. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for a quick and satisfying meal.

Pasta Carbonara

Pasta carbonara is a rich, creamy dish made with just a few pantry staples like pasta, eggs, and Parmesan. Cook 8 oz of pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water. In a separate bowl, whisk together two eggs and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan. Toss the pasta with the egg mixture, adding the reserved water to create a silky sauce. Season with black pepper and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal in minutes.

Fried Rice

Fried rice is a versatile dish that transforms leftover rice and a few pantry ingredients into a delicious meal. Sauté one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves in a tablespoon of oil. Add 4 cups of cooked rice, 1/4 cup soy sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Stir in frozen peas or canned vegetables and cook for 5 minutes. Finish with a scrambled egg or two for added protein, and you’ve got a quick, satisfying dinner.

White Bean Stew

White bean stew is a rich, hearty meal using canned beans and a few simple spices. Sauté one diced onion and two garlic cloves in a tablespoon of olive oil. Add two cans of white beans, one can of diced tomatoes, and 4 cups of vegetable broth. Season with thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, then simmer for 20 minutes. Serve with crusty bread for a wholesome meal that’s perfect for chilly nights.

Ramen Stir-Fry

Transform instant ramen into a delicious stir-fry by tossing the noodles with a few pantry staples. Cook two packs of instant ramen (without the seasoning packet) and drain. Sauté one diced onion, two garlic cloves, and any canned vegetables you have on hand in a tablespoon of oil. Add 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp hoisin sauce, then toss in the cooked noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or hot sauce for an easy meal with a twist.

Pasta Puttanesca

Pasta puttanesca is a bold and tangy dish made with pantry staples like canned tomatoes, olives, and anchovies. Cook 8 oz of pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water. In a skillet, sauté 4 minced garlic cloves with 4 anchovy fillets until fragrant. Add one can of diced tomatoes, 1/4 cup olives, and 1 tbsp capers. Toss the pasta with the sauce, adding the reserved water if needed, for a flavorful dinner ready in minutes.

Bean Burritos

Bean burritos are a simple, filling meal that comes together quickly using pantry ingredients. Warm up two cans of refried beans and spread onto flour tortillas. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a spoonful of salsa, and any spices like cumin or chili powder. Roll up the tortillas and bake in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. Serve with a side of tortilla chips or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Canned Salmon Cakes

Canned salmon cakes are a protein-packed meal that’s quick and easy to make. Drain and flake two cans of salmon, then mix with 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, one egg, and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard. Form into patties and fry in a tablespoon of oil over medium heat until golden, about 3 minutes per side. Serve with a squeeze of lemon and a side of rice or salad for a complete dinner.

Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese

Tomato soup and grilled cheese is a comforting classic that uses canned soup and a few pantry staples. Heat one can of tomato soup with 1 cup of milk, stirring until smooth. For the sandwiches, butter two slices of bread and add a slice of cheese in between. Cook in a skillet until golden and crispy. Pair the soup with the grilled cheese for an easy, satisfying dinner that hits the spot every time.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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