Simple Dinner Ideas With Minimal Prep

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If you're looking for a few meal ideas that will cut down on prep time, look no further. In this post, we’ll feature 5 delicious dinner ideas that won't keep you in the kitchen for hours.

Shepards Pie

This easy dinner is a fan-favorite! You'll enjoy a delicious meal that also makes great leftovers. Better yet, the prep is fast and simple. You'll need to brown ground beef, whip a bowl of mashed potatoes and open a can of corn. Once the components are ready, first layer the beef in a baking dish, add the corn, then top with mashed potatoes. Cook in the oven at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes for a crowd-pleasing, hearty meal! Serve with applesauce for a sweet side dish.

Baked Ziti

Prepare baked ziti for the perfect simple and delicious Italian dinner! Using only a few ingredients, this meal can come to life in just minutes. To make this dish, you’ll need just four ingredients: ground beef, ziti, pasta sauce and mozzarella cheese. Brown the beef and cook the noodles a few minutes less than the package instructions. This will allow the pasta to cook through once you place it in the oven. Layer the beef and ziti with the sauce and cheese in a baking dish. Finish with a layer of cheese then bake for 30 minutes at 375 degrees. Enjoy with a green salad and fresh bread!

Sloppy Joes

This meal is one that is loved by kids and adults. Better yet, it takes a few minutes to make and a short list of ingredients. To make the perfect homemade sloppy joes, simply brown some ground hamburger beef in a skillet, choose your favorite barbecue sauce and ketchup and add them to the skillet with the beef. Combine the ingredients and simmer until well combined. Spoon the mixture onto hamburger buns and your main dish is finished! Add green beans and oven-roasted potatoes to complete the meal.

Taco Night

Tacos are another simple option that offers plenty of room for customization. First, brown some ground beef or chicken. Add taco seasoning and water to the pan with the meat, turn down the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. When the meat is done, use shredded lettuce, your favorite cheese and a jar of salsa to build the tacos of your dreams!

Slow Cooker Chili

Using a slow cooker to prepare meals is a convenient way to create savory meals without too much work. Try this method for preparing delicious chili, another fan favorite. You'll need ground beef, beans, tomato juice, chili seasoning and chopped onion. Saute the beef and onions first then and spoon the mixture to your slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and stir well. Cover and cook for 6 - 8 hours (on the low setting), for a simple and easy dinner.