25 “Company’s Coming” Emergency Recipes
Uh oh, the doorbell’s ringing, and your place looks like a tornado went through it! Aunt Mildred decided to pop by unexpectedly, and you haven’t even started thinking about dinner. Fear not, dear friend! We’ve all been there. This is your survival guide to impressing even the pickiest eaters when time is NOT on your side.
This list is packed with 25 ridiculously easy and delicious recipes that you can whip up in a flash. We’re talking minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and zero judgment. So, put on your apron, crank up the tunes, and let’s get cooking! Aunt Mildred will think you’re a culinary genius.
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe
This is a lifesaver! Simply toss chicken pieces with lemon slices, herbs like rosemary and thyme, garlic, and olive oil. Roast until golden and cooked through. The aroma alone will impress!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Shrimp cooks in minutes! Sauté garlic in butter, add shrimp, a splash of white wine (optional), and red pepper flakes. Serve over pasta or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Quesadillas with a Twist Recipe
Upgrade your basic quesadilla game! Add cooked chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, and shredded cheese between tortillas. Grill or pan-fry until golden and the cheese is melted.
Pasta Aglio e Olio Recipe
This classic Italian dish is a quick and flavorful win! Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil, toss with cooked spaghetti, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Simple, elegant, and delicious.
Avocado Toast with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe
Elevate your avocado toast game! Mash avocado with lime juice and salt, spread it on toast, and sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning. Add a fried egg for extra protein.
Black Bean Burgers Recipe
Canned black beans are your secret weapon! Mash them with breadcrumbs, spices, and chopped veggies. Form into patties and pan-fry until crispy on the outside. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe
A crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort! Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with cheese, beans, and your favorite toppings. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Caprese Salad Recipe
Simple, fresh, and visually stunning! Alternate slices of ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Tuna Salad Sandwiches Recipe
A classic for a reason! Mix canned tuna with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve on your favorite bread with lettuce and tomato.
Scrambled Eggs with Smoked Salmon Recipe
Elevate your scrambled eggs! Whisk eggs with milk and chives, cook until soft and creamy, and top with slices of smoked salmon and a dollop of crème fraîche.
Spicy Peanut Noodles Recipe
A flavorful and satisfying meal! Toss cooked noodles with peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, and a touch of honey. Garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro.
Chicken Caesar Wraps Recipe
A lighter take on a classic! Toss shredded cooked chicken with Caesar dressing, lettuce, and Parmesan cheese. Wrap in tortillas for a quick and easy meal.
Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons Recipe
Upgrade your childhood favorite! Serve tomato soup with grilled cheese sandwiches cut into croutons for a comforting and satisfying meal.
BLT Sandwiches Recipe
A timeless classic that everyone loves! Crispy bacon, juicy tomato slices, crisp lettuce, and mayonnaise on toasted bread. Simple perfection.
Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
A quick and healthy option! Stir-fry chicken pieces with your favorite veggies and a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Serve over rice.
Baked Potato Bar Recipe
A fun and interactive meal! Bake potatoes until soft and fluffy. Set out a variety of toppings, such as cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, chili, and veggies, and let everyone customize their own.
Pesto Pasta Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful dish! Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Quick Chicken Tacos Recipe
Season cooked chicken with taco seasoning and serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes Recipe
For a quick brunch! Add ricotta cheese and lemon zest to your favorite pancake batter for extra flavor and richness. Serve with berries and maple syrup.
Hummus and Veggie Wraps Recipe
A healthy and satisfying meal! Spread hummus on tortillas and fill with your favorite veggies, such as cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, and sprouts.
Breakfast for Dinner: Cereal Recipe
Sometimes, simplicity is key! Embrace the nostalgia and serve a bowl of your favorite cereal with milk. A quick and easy option that everyone will enjoy.
Caprese Skewers Recipe
A perfect appetizer! Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve.
Quick Fried Rice Recipe
Use leftover rice for a quick and tasty meal! Stir-fry rice with eggs, veggies, and your favorite protein. Season with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
A crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s always a hit! Wrap mini hot dogs in crescent roll dough and bake until golden brown. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
A warm and comforting appetizer! Mix spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden. Serve with tortilla chips or crusty bread.