When it comes to cooking dinner, the task can be daunting, especially when the oven is involved. The time-consuming nature of ovens and the heat they produce can make them less than ideal for certain situations. That’s why we’ve curated a list of 35 quick and easy dinners that don’t require the use of an oven. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, as you’ll be able to prepare them in no time, ensuring a stress-free mealtime.
35 Easy Dinners Without Oven
Chicken Stir Fry
Savor the flavors of this speedy dinner recipe, which can be prepared in under half an hour. With a quick sauté of chicken, vegetables, and a side of fluffy rice, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.
One-Pot Pasta
What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its simplicity, requiring only one pot to prepare. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility – simply add your favorite vegetables to create a meal that’s both quick and easy to make, making it an ideal choice for a busy family dinner.
Tuna Salad
For a quick and nutritious evening meal, look no further than this straightforward yet satisfying tuna salad recipe. By combining canned tuna with mayonnaise, crunchy celery, and savory onions, you’ll create a deliciously balanced dish that’s ready to be devoured in mere minutes. Serve it on top of crackers or bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Chili
On chilly evenings, there’s nothing like a comforting and filling meal to warm the soul. This recipe is an ideal solution, as it yields a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. Simply cook ground beef with some essential ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and spices, allowing the flavors to meld together as it simmers in a rich and savory broth.
Caesar Salad
The notion that salads are only suitable for lunch or as a light meal is a misconception. A well-crafted salad can be a satisfying dinner option, especially when paired with protein-rich ingredients like grilled chicken, crunchy croutons, and fresh lettuces tossed in a rich Caesar dressing.
Grilled Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food without breaking a sweat – a classic grilled cheese sandwich. This effortless recipe requires minimal effort, as it’s simply a matter of combining your preferred cheese with your go-to bread and grilling to perfection.
Rice Bowls
The versatility of rice bowls lies in their ability to be customized with ease. With a few basic components – cooked rice, protein, vegetables, and a preferred sauce – you can create a quick and satisfying meal that suits your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a filling dinner, the rice bowl’s adaptability makes it an ideal option.
Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a refreshing cold soup recipe that eschews traditional cooking methods, instead relying on the natural flavors of its ingredients to shine through. To prepare this delightful dish, combine fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, then refrigerate until chilled before serving.
Shrimp Scampi
When it comes to whipping up a speedy and satisfying dinner, shrimp scampi is an unbeatable choice. This straightforward yet flavorful recipe can be prepared in the comfort of your own kitchen, requiring nothing more than a stove and a few staple ingredients. The key to success lies in the harmonious union of succulent shrimp, pungent garlic, and crisp white wine – all of which are expertly sautéed together before being served alongside a generous helping of pasta.
Shrimp Tacos
The versatility of tacos lies in their ability to be tailored to individual tastes. By preparing a protein of choice, selecting a variety of toppings, and serving it all within the confines of a crispy tortilla, diners can create a unique culinary experience that meets their specific cravings.
Chicken Curry
Elevate the ordinary evening meal with the warmth and depth of curry. A quick and easy process can be achieved by combining cooked chicken, an assortment of vegetables, and a perfect blend of curry powder and rich coconut milk. This harmonious union yields a satisfying and comforting curry that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Pesto Pasta
In the realm of effortless culinary delights, few dishes match the simplicity and flavor of classic pesto pasta. With just a stove and a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a delectable meal that’s ready to devour in no time. The magic begins by cooking your preferred type of pasta al dente, then elevating it with the rich, herby essence of pesto sauce. From there, feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein sources – be it tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or crunchy cherry tomatoes – to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Chicken Salad
For a satisfying and low-carb dinner option, consider whipping up a delicious chicken salad. This simple yet flavorful dish combines the protein-packed goodness of cooked chicken with the creaminess of mayonnaise, the crunch of celery, and the pungency of onions, all served atop a bed of fresh greens. The result is a filling and nutritious meal that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Sushi Bowls
When the desire for a delicious sushi meal strikes, but time constraints become an issue, look no further than the humble sushi bowl. This convenient dinner option offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures, requiring only a few simple ingredients to bring together. Start by cooking Japanese short-grain rice to perfection, then add your preferred protein such as grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu. Add some colorful vegetables like sliced bell peppers, carrots, and green onions, followed by a drizzle of soy sauce to tie everything together. This quick and easy meal is sure to satisfy your sushi cravings without requiring the time-consuming process of making individual pieces.
Pad Thai
A staple in Thai cuisine, Pad Thai is an effortless yet flavorful option for a midweek meal. At its core, this beloved dish revolves around a harmonious balance of soft rice noodles, savory protein, and crunchy vegetables, all tied together by the rich and creamy essence of peanut sauce.
Fried Rice
When it comes to utilizing leftovers, few dishes are as versatile and satisfying as fried rice. By combining cooked rice with an assortment of vegetables, a protein source, and a drizzle of soy sauce, you can create a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for using up those leftover grains and veggies.
Fish Tacos
When it comes to whipping up a speedy and satisfying supper that can be cooked to perfection on the stovetop alone, few options rival the humble fish taco. The simplicity of this dish lies in its straightforward preparation – just cook the fish to your liking, add some flavorful toppings, and wrap everything together with a warm tortilla.
Mushroom Risotto
Transform the humble mushroom risotto into a sumptuous culinary experience by combining the earthy flavors of various fresh mushrooms with the creamy texture of Arborio rice, all elevated by a rich and aromatic broth.
Cobb Salad
When it comes to a satisfying and nutritious dinner option, cobb salad is an excellent choice. This classic dish combines a medley of flavors and textures, featuring crisp greens, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy hard-boiled eggs. Top it all off with your preferred dressing for a meal that’s as delicious as it is wholesome.
Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Transform a classic comfort food into a rich and satisfying meal by crafting a creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese dish from scratch. To elevate this simple recipe, consider adding your personal touches with savory elements such as crispy bacon, steamed broccoli florets, or the subtle kick of diced jalapeños, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to your unique taste preferences.
Spring Rolls
Shaking up the dinner game with spring rolls is an effortless endeavor. The versatility of this dish lies in its ability to accommodate a medley of vegetables and protein sources. Merely combine your preferred ingredients within a spring roll wrapper, then indulge in the culinary delight by dipping it in your favorite condiment.
Zoodles
One innovative approach to incorporating more vegetables into your evening meal is through the use of zoodles. This process involves transforming zucchinis into noodle-like strands using a spiralizer. Once prepared, the zoodles can be cooked with a flavorful sauce and paired with protein sources such as meat or tofu, resulting in a nutritious and satisfying dinner.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Indulge in the simplicity and satisfaction of a mouthwatering stir-fry, where tender slices of beef are perfectly complemented by the crunch of fresh broccoli in a rich, savory sauce. This delectable dish is best enjoyed alongside a comforting serving of rice or noodles.
Shrimp and Asparagus Risotto
Indulge in the rich flavors of a delectable risotto, crafted with tender shrimp, succulent asparagus, and the creamiest Arborio rice, all harmoniously united within a savory broth that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Pita Pizzas
Shaking things up in the kitchen is as easy as whipping up a pita pizza. The combination of tangy sauce, melted cheese, and an array of savory toppings all nestled within a crispy pita crust is a match made in heaven. Simply slather on your favorite sauce, sprinkle shredded cheese to taste, add any desired toppings, and let the magic happen in the oven.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience by crafting a luscious tomato soup teeming with the essence of basil. To elevate its rich flavor profile, serve it alongside a generous dollop of creamy goodness, making for an unforgettable evening meal.
Ramen Noodles
Elevate the humble instant noodle experience by transforming it into a personalized bowl of ramen. Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions, then infuse them with flavor by simmering them in your preferred broth. Take it to the next level by adding protein sources like cooked chicken, beef, or tofu, and don’t forget to incorporate a variety of vegetables such as sliced scallions, bean sprouts, or bok choy to add texture and nutrients.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast
To elevate your next meal, combine the savory flavors of sautéed chicken breasts with wilted spinach, pungent garlic, and crumbled feta cheese. This harmonious blend yields a rich and satisfying main course that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Stovetop Tamales
To cook tamales without the use of an oven, you can employ a clever alternative method that yields delicious results. This approach involves assembling the tamales in a large pot with a steamer insert, allowing the steam to cook the masa and fillings to perfection. By carefully controlling the heat and steam, you can achieve tender, flavorful tamales without ever firing up your oven.
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Transforming boneless chicken breasts into mouthwatering BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Begin by cooking the chicken in your preferred BBQ sauce on the stovetop, allowing it to simmer until tender and easily shreddable. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and set it aside. To complete this delectable sandwich, place a generous portion of the shredded chicken onto a soft bun, accompanied by a refreshing dollop of coleslaw for added crunch and flavor.
Lemon Butter Shrimp and Asparagus
Indulge in a delectable seafood dinner by quickly cooking succulent shrimp with crisp, tender asparagus in a zesty lemon-butter sauce, requiring minimal effort yet delivering maximum flavor.
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Transform the humble portobello mushroom into a savory masterpiece by sautéing it to perfection and then filling it with an aromatic blend of fresh flavors. The key is to combine the earthy sweetness of the mushrooms with the bright, tangy notes of tomato, creamy mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil, and rich balsamic glaze. This delightful combination yields a meatless dinner that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
Beef Teriyaki
Transform the classic Japanese dish into a mouthwatering experience by cooking tender beef strips in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce. Pair it with fluffy steamed rice and an assortment of vibrant vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy your appetite.
Shrimp and Spinach Alfredo
Transform the flavors of Italy by crafting a rich Alfredo sauce from scratch, then harmonize its creaminess with succulent shrimp and wilted spinach. Serve this delectable combination over your preferred pasta to create a satisfying meal.
Vegan Lentil Curry
Discover the simplicity of cooking a hearty lentil curry on the stovetop, where a medley of lentils, vegetables, and fragrant Indian spices combine to create a satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with rice or flatbread. And the best part? It’s an effortless option for a quick weeknight dinner. No oven required! In fact, you’re in luck because we’ve curated a collection of 35 easy dinners that don’t need the oven – just the stovetop and your culinary expertise. From savory stir-fries to nourishing bowls, this list has something for everyone. Try out these recipes and share your thoughts!