Who has time to spend hours in the kitchen these days? Not us, that’s for sure. That’s why we’ve rounded up 21 meals that are all about speed without skimping on flavor. From stir-fries that sizzle to pastas that please, each of these recipes guarantees a great meal on the table in 30 minutes or less.

A bowl of pasta with bacon and brussels sprouts.
Brussels Sprouts Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.
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Chicken Saag

Chicken Saag. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dish is nearly identical to what you’d get at a restaurant but without the wait. Quick to make and filled with flavor, it’s a great way to enjoy a special meal on a weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Saag

Gochujang Chicken

Chinese gochujang chicken in a skillet on a table with black kitchen towel wrapped around the handle.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

If you’re looking for something quick, spicy, and packed with flavor, this chicken dish is it. With a cooking time that keeps you moving, it’s a great way to spice up your weeknight dinners without a big time commitment.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Sticky Honey Soy Pork Chops

Pork chop glazed with sticky honey soy sauce and sliced on a plate with salad.
Sticky Honey Soy Pork Chops. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Marinate in the morning and cook in just 20 minutes for a meal that feels special without all the work. These pork chops are a great choice for when you want something a little different but don’t have a lot of time.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Honey Soy Pork Chops

Greek Shrimp Skillet

Shrimp skillet dinner with kalamata olives, tomatoes and feta.
Greek Shrimp Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dish brings a bunch of fresh and light Mediterranean flavors to your table quickly. It’s packed with healthy ingredients and can be ready in a flash, making it a perfect choice for a last-minute dinner.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Skillet

Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli

Spaghetti alfredo with broccoli florets in a pot with wooden spoon.
Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Here’s a lighter, yet super quick version of a classic pasta dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s great for when you’re craving something creamy and satisfying but still want to keep things quick and easy.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli

Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Creamy tomato farfalle with peas and prosciutto in a white bowl.
Creamy Tomato Farfalle. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This pasta dish is a great way to mix up your dinner routine without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and has a creamy sauce that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese with ground turkey in a pot.
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Upgrade your mac and cheese game with this quick and hearty version. It’s got all the cheesy goodness you love plus some added veggies for a well-rounded meal. And it’s ready before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Bacon Wrapped Salmon

Plate of salmon with bacon.
Bacon Wrapped Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dish adds a luxurious touch to your dinner without any extra time in the kitchen. Bacon keeps the salmon moist and adds flavor, making it a great choice for a quick yet fancy meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon

Smashed White Bean Quesadillas

Smashed white bean quesadillas on a cutting board.
Smashed White Bean Quesadillas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

For a quick and delicious meal, these quesadillas are perfect. They come together in no time and are packed with flavor, making them a great option for a fast dinner.
Get the Recipe: Smashed White Bean Quesadillas

Korean Sweet Potato Glass Noodles

Korean Sweet Potato Glass Noodles. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ready in 15 minutes, these noodles are a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful Korean dish. They’re great for a last-minute dinner that’s different and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Korean Sweet Potato Glass Noodles

Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry

Spicy udon noodle stir fry in a bowl with chopsticks.
Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

When you need dinner on the table fast, this udon noodle stir fry is the way to go. It’s quick, full of flavor, and beats takeout any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodle Stir Fry

Brussels Sprouts Pasta

A bowl of pasta with bacon and brussels sprouts.
Brussels Sprouts Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ready in just 25 minutes, this pasta is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s simple, quick, and loaded with flavors thanks to bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichokes. Great for when you need something fast but don’t want to skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Pasta

Sweet & Spicy Pork Ramen Stir Fry

Pork ramen stir fry in a blue cast iron skillet with chop sticks.
Sweet & Spicy Pork Ramen Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

For a meal that’s quick, easy, and loaded with flavor, this pork ramen stir fry is perfect. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a great way to enjoy a delicious noodle dish without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Pork Ramen Stir Fry

Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas

Shrimp and steak fajitas with peppers and onions.
Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Talk about easy and quick. Throw everything on a sheet pan, bake, and you’ve got a flavorful dinner ready in less than 20 minutes. Perfect for when you want something tasty without the wait or the cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas

Ground Beef Stir Fry

Ground beef stir fry in a skillet.
Ground Beef Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This stir fry is a great option for a quick, tasty meal that’s also healthy. It’s packed with veggies and flavor, ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Stir Fry

Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Gnocchi with ground pork, tomatoes, mozzarella and spinach in a cast iron skillet.
Baked Skillet Gnocchi. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Get ready to impress with minimal effort. This one-pan wonder packs in all the good stuff – pork, tomatoes, spinach, and cheese – and cooks up fast. Perfect for those nights when you want something comforting but don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Baked Skillet Gnocchi

Maple Mustard Air Fryer Frozen Salmon

Maple mustard air fryer frozen salmon filet with broccolini on a plate.
Maple Mustard Air Fryer Frozen Salmon. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This salmon dish is a game changer for busy nights. No need to thaw; just season, air fry, and you’re done. It’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal prep and cook time.
Get the Recipe: Maple Mustard Air Fryer Frozen Salmon

Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese

Greek yogurt mac and cheese with peas and bacon in a white bowl.
Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This mac and cheese is not only quick to make but also adds a tangy twist with Greek yogurt. It’s a great way to satisfy your comfort food cravings in a healthier, quicker way.
Get the Recipe: Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese

Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and broccoli stir fry served with white rice on a white plate.
Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This is your go-to for a quick and hearty meal. The thin beef slices and broccoli cook up so fast, making this the perfect pick for a busy night. You’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Bucatini pasta with shrimp in a white bowl.
Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. With juicy shrimp and cherry tomatoes, this pasta dish is not only easy to make but also fast, so you can enjoy a great meal without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Poblano peppers stuffed with chicken and cheese.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These stuffed peppers are a fast track to a flavorful dinner. Loaded with chicken, cheese, and spices, they’re a great way to add some excitement to your meal routine without spending all evening cooking.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Gina Matsoukas
Founder and Writer at Running to the Kitchen | About

Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.

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