25 Back-Pocket Recipes for Unexpected Guests

Uh oh! Unexpected guests are at the door, and your fridge looks suspiciously empty? Don’t panic!  We’ve got you covered with this arsenal of quick, delicious recipes that will impress even the most discerning palates.  These back-pocket recipes require minimal ingredients and even less time, proving that delicious doesn’t have to mean difficult.

Get ready to wow your surprise visitors with these culinary lifesavers – no frantic grocery runs required!

15-Minute Carbonara Recipe

Creamy, cheesy, and ready in a flash! This carbonara is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick dinner party.

Sheet Pan Nachos Supreme Recipe

Layer up your favorite nacho toppings on a sheet pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.  A crowd-pleaser guaranteed!

No-Rise Pizza Bread Recipe

Forget waiting for dough to rise! This simple recipe uses pantry staples to create a surprisingly delicious pizza base.

Emergency Cheese Board Recipe

A classic for a reason! Gather your favorite cheeses, crackers, and accompaniments for an instantly impressive appetizer.

5-Ingredient Bruschetta Recipe

This simple bruschetta uses just five ingredients and takes minutes to assemble.  A perfect light and refreshing starter.

Quick Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Garlic, butter, and shrimp – need we say more?  This classic dish is elegant yet incredibly easy to make.

Pantry Pasta Puttanesca Recipe

Use what you have in your pantry to whip up this flavorful and satisfying pasta dish.  It’s all about bold flavors!

3-Ingredient Queso Dip Recipe

Seriously, just three ingredients! This queso is unbelievably easy and perfect for dipping chips or veggies.

Lightning Fast Fried Rice Recipe

Transform leftover rice into a delicious and satisfying meal in minutes.  A great way to use up odds and ends.

Instant Pot Bean Soup Recipe

Let your Instant Pot do the work! This hearty soup is packed with flavor and perfect for a chilly evening.

10-Minute Garlic Noodles Recipe

These noodles are quick, flavorful, and incredibly addictive.  Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Antipasto Platter Recipe

A beautiful and delicious way to present a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and vegetables.

Quick Chickpea Curry Recipe

This vibrant curry is ready in a flash and full of flavor.  A healthy and satisfying vegetarian option.

Emergency Enchiladas Recipe

Even with limited time, these enchiladas are easy to assemble and bake, delivering a comforting and satisfying meal.

15-Minute Mediterranean Mezze Recipe

A colorful and flavorful spread of hummus, pita bread, olives, and feta – perfect for sharing.

Tuna Melt Sliders Recipe

Miniature tuna melts? Yes, please! These adorable sliders are perfect for a casual gathering.

Microwave Risotto Recipe

Who knew you could make risotto in the microwave?  This recipe is a game-changer for quick meals.

Last-Minute Quesadillas Recipe

A classic for a reason! Quesadillas are endlessly customizable and always a crowd-pleaser.

5-Ingredient Cream Pasta Recipe

Simple, creamy, and delicious – this pasta dish is a lifesaver when you’re short on time.

Speedy Greek Salad Recipe

Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.  This salad is a refreshing and healthy option.

Emergency Black Bean Tacos Recipe

Quick, easy, and customizable – these tacos are a go-to for unexpected guests.

Quick Flatbread Pizza Recipe

Use store-bought flatbread as your base for a quick and delicious pizza.  Endless topping possibilities!

10-Minute Asian Noodles Recipe

Stir-fried noodles with your favorite Asian-inspired sauce – ready in a jiffy!

Pantry Charcuterie Board Recipe

Similar to the cheese board, but with a focus on cured meats and various accompaniments from your pantry.

Emergency French Toast Recipe

A sweet and comforting breakfast or brunch option, even if guests arrive unexpectedly.