Do you recognize this common scenario? You get home, and everyone starts to ask you what’s for dinner. So, you check the pantry and the fridge. You’re prepared to give up and suggest pizza delivery. But before you dial, check out these last minute dinner ideas with little to no prep and less than five ingredients to pull it off.
1. Spaghetti
Pasta, ground beef, tomato sauce, and a few spices are all you need to pull of this family favorite. Simply keep these simple ingredients in your kitchen for a quick and filling meal. Also, add a salad, cook some veggies or butter some bread as extra side dishes. This is one of the best last minute dinner ideas because it looks like you slaved in the kitchen without having to break a sweat.
2. Tuna Casserole
All you need is a can or two of tuna, some cream of chicken soup, and a little pasta for an easy-oven tuna bake classic. Just add peas or carrots, and don’t forget the crackers to crumble for a crunchy topping. But, leave out the ingredients that your picky eaters don’t like. Add everything they do, and this little meal tastes like a homemade hug.
3. Taco Tuesday, Wednesday or Any Day
Having a supply of soft shell tortillas on hand means you can make it Taco Tuesday any night of the week. This is one of the most creative last minute dinner ideas. For example, if you don’t have ground beef, consider using chicken.
Also, cream cheese can be an excellent substitute for sour cream. Or, roll up the meat-stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with a can of cheese soup mixed with cream of chicken. Top with cheese, and you have a simple version of enchiladas, for instance.
Don’t cave in and spend the money on fast food. With a few simple items, a little bit of time, and a whole pile of love, you can whip up a family-friendly dinner in no time.
