• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
always use butter
  • Recipes
  • Air Fryer Resources
  • Subscribe!
  • About
  • Contact
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Air Fryer Resources
  • Subscribe!
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Air Fryer Resources
    • Subscribe!
    • About
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Recipe Roundups

    22 Dump-And-Go Recipes That Will Make You Love Cooking Again

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on June 5, 2025, updated June 5, 2025 - Leave a Comment

    Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, but with these 22 simple dump-and-go recipes, you can bring the joy back into your kitchen. These dishes require minimal prep and let you throw everything together in one pot or pan, making mealtime a breeze. Whether you're short on time or just looking for easy ideas, these recipes will help you enjoy cooking again.

    Southwest Chicken Casserole

    Southwest chicken casserole.
    Photo Credit: My Rad Kitchen.

    Southwest Chicken Casserole is a filling dish that combines juicy chicken, zesty spices, and gooey melted cheese. It’s easy to prepare in just one pan, making it perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen. The mix of salsa Verde, black beans, and southwest seasoning gives it a warm, smoky flavor that everyone will enjoy. This dish is not only satisfying but also brings a bit of excitement to your dinner table. It’s a great way to bring the family together over a delicious meal.

    Save This Recipe Form

    Want to save this recipe?

    Enter your email below & we'll send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get more great recipes from us each week!

    Get the Recipe

    No-Boil Ravioli Casserole

    This cheesy ravioli casserole is one of the simplest dishes you can make. With just four simple ingredients and store-bought shortcuts, you can prep this dish in 5 minutes, and eat in under 40!
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This dish is incredibly easy to prepare. You only need four basic ingredients and some ready-made items to help you out. In just five minutes, you can have everything ready to go. You’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in less than 40 minutes. It's perfect for those busy days when you want something tasty without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

    Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker

    This Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers dish is a great choice for summer meals. It combines Italian sausage, bell peppers, marinara sauce, sweet onions, and some seasonings for a flavorful experience. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy days. You can set it up in the morning and let it cook while you go about your day. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

    Get the Recipe

    Crockpot Ranch Chicken Casserole

    Crockpot Ranch Chicken Casserole.
    Photo Credit: Budget Delicious.

    Crockpot Ranch Chicken Casserole is a simple slow cooker dish that you can enjoy at the end of a busy day. This meal is budget-friendly and straightforward to prepare, making it a hit with families. It combines everything you need into one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. This dish also freezes well, which is perfect for planning ahead. It's a great option for those nights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup

    Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
    Photo Credit: Supergolden Bakes.

    Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a cozy dish that you can easily prepare in your crock pot or on the stove. It's great for cold winter days or anytime you need a warm and satisfying meal. The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a favorite for family dinners. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of soup that everyone will love. This is a comforting option that brings warmth and flavor to your table.

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup

    Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup
    Photo Credit: Inquiring Chef.

    This soup is easy to make with just a few ingredients and can cook all day long. It's creamy without using any cream, and it's both vegetarian and gluten-free. Enjoy this light yet filling soup served in bread bowls, topped with your favorite taco fixings. It's a great option for a cozy meal that doesn't require much effort. Perfect for when you want something comforting and delicious.

    Get the recipe

    Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup

    Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup.
    Photo Credit: Kitchen Gone Rogue.

    This chicken tortilla soup is super simple to make in a crockpot and requires hardly any prep time. It's a dish that my family and friends have loved for years, and they keep asking for it again and again. Just throw everything in the pot and let it do its thing. Perfect for busy nights when you want something warm and filling. This is a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    Baked Lamb Chops & Veggies

    Baked lamb chops with veggies.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This sheet pan meal offers a simple way to enjoy lamb without the stress of overcooking. The lamb chops roast alongside fresh vegetables, soaking up all the delicious flavors. The result is tender lamb that pairs perfectly with the veggies. It's a straightforward dish that brings everything together in one pan. This is a great option for a satisfying dinner.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Gnocchi With Bacon & Mushrooms

    Gnocchi with bacon and mushrooms.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This simple meal comes together with just 8 ingredients, making it perfect for any night of the week. Featuring tender gnocchi, crispy bacon, hearty mushrooms, and crunchy pine nuts, it offers a great mix of flavors and textures. It's an easy dish that doesn't require much effort, so you can enjoy a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for busy evenings. Enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love.

    Get the recipe

    Enchilada Bake

    Enchilada bake.
    Photo credit: Dizzy Busy and Hungry.

    The Enchilada Bake is simple to put together with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and freezer. It's packed with flavor and is bound to be a hit with your family. You won't even need to use your oven for this one, as it cooks perfectly in a slow cooker. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Thigh Tray Bake

    Chicken Thigh Tray Bake.
    Photo Credit: Quiche My Grits.

    This Chicken Thigh Tray Bake is a simple meal packed with flavor. Juicy chicken thighs and vibrant vegetables come together on one sheet pan, making it easy to prepare and clean up afterward. The combination of seasonings adds a nice touch to the dish. It's perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal effort!

    Get the Recipe

    Baked Chicken Drumsticks & Veggies

    Drumsticks and veggies.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This sheet-pan dinner is perfect for quick weeknight meals. With just a little chopping at the beginning, it’s mostly hands-off. Everything cooks together, blending the flavors of chicken, veggies, and a delicious sauce. It’s a simple way to get a tasty meal on the table without much effort. Enjoy a satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup.

    Get the recipe

    Chicken Cacciatore

    Chicken cacciatore with pasta.
    Photo credit: Scarlati Family Kitchen.

    This is a straightforward and tasty dinner option that works well for a weeknight meal or a relaxed Sunday dinner. This classic Italian dish is cooked slowly to bring out all the flavors. It pairs nicely with pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes. You can enjoy it with family or friends without spending too much time in the kitchen. It's a comforting meal that everyone will appreciate.

    Get the recipe

    Southwest Chicken Casserole

    Southwest chicken casserole.
    Photo Credit: My Rad Kitchen.

    Southwest Chicken Casserole is a hearty meal that brings together tender chicken, flavorful spices, and melted cheese in a single dish. It features a simple mix of salsa Verde, black beans, and southwest seasoning, making it easy to prepare. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and delicious. Everyone in the family will appreciate the comforting flavors. It's a great choice for a quick and enjoyable dinner.

    Get the Recipe

    Gorgonzola Mac and Cheese

    Gorgonzola mac and cheese.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This mac and cheese is incredibly easy to make, using just one dish and no need for any pre-cooking. Simply combine everything, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a warm and comforting meal ready to enjoy. The combination of mozzarella and gorgonzola gives it a rich, cheesy flavor that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. This dish is sure to bring a smile to your face and make you appreciate cooking again.

    Get the recipe

    Instant Pot Chicken Stew

    Chicken stew.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Instant Pot Chicken Stew is super simple to prepare. You can have it ready in just 10 minutes, and then let the pot do all the work for you. In less than 45 minutes, you'll have a hearty meal filled with vegetables and great flavors. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting stew with minimal effort.

    Get the recipe

    Air Fryer Roast Beef

    Sliced roast beef.
    Photo credit: alwaysusebutter.com.

    This Air Fryer Roast Beef is a simple and delicious dinner option that takes only 50 minutes to prepare. The outside has a flavorful herby crust, while the inside remains juicy and tender. With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal. It's perfect for family dinners when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy a hearty dish that everyone will appreciate.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker V8 Chili

    Slow Cooker Lasagna Recipe With Ravioli.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    This chili is packed with vegetables, thanks to the V8 juice in the sauce. It's a hearty dish that you can easily prepare without much effort. You’ll end up with a large batch, perfect for freezing or sharing with friends and family. It's a great option for busy nights when you want something filling and nutritious. Enjoy a comforting bowl of chili that everyone will love.

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Vietnamese Pulled Pork Banh Mi

    Slow Cooker Vietnamese Pulled Pork Banh Mi.
    Photo Credit: Delightful Plate.

    Pulled pork banh mi is a delicious sandwich that combines a Vietnamese baguette with juicy pulled pork, crunchy pickled veggies, and a zesty sriracha mayo. Using a slow cooker for the pulled pork makes this dish simple to prepare. The flavors come together beautifully, creating a satisfying meal. This is a great option for lunch or dinner, especially when you want something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy this easy and flavorful twist on a classic sandwich.

    Get the Recipe

    Dump-and-Bake Mac & Cheese

    Mac and cheese.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Baked Mac and Cheese is super simple to prepare. In just 10 minutes, you can have everything ready to go into the oven, and then it only takes 45 minutes to bake. This recipe uses just one pan, so there's no need to boil pasta or make a sauce from scratch. With a mix of Cheddar and Gruyere cheese, it’s rich and full of flavor. This is a great dish for a cozy dinner at home.

    Get the recipe

    Crockpot Steak Bites with Mushrooms

    Crockpot Steak Bites with Mushrooms
    Photo Credit: Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons.

    Steak bites are packed with flavor and are super easy to make. With just beef broth, butter, onion, garlic, beef, and mushrooms, you can create a hearty meal. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy a comforting dinner with minimal effort.

    Get the recipe

    Maple Mustard Salmon

    Maple Mustard Salmon - Sheet Pan Dinner
    Photo Credit: Midwest Foodie.

    Maple mustard salmon is a super easy dinner option that you can whip up in just 40 minutes, with most of that time spent letting everything roast in the oven. The dish features a tasty maple Dijon sauce that brings together cubed sweet potatoes, crunchy Brussels sprouts, and fresh salmon fillets. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Everyone in the family will enjoy this flavorful combination. This recipe is all about simplicity and great taste.

    Get the recipe

    More Recipe Roundups

    • Chicken gnocchi soup.
      23 Crockpot Chicken Recipes We Love Right Now
    • Chicken thigh tray bake.
      30 No-Fuss Dump-and-Bake Recipes That Are Perfect for Crowds
    • Brown sugar chicken.
      18 Family-Approved Slow Cooker Recipes for Stress-Free Meals
    • Ravioli lasagna.
      26 Ground Beef Dinners That Will Have Everyone Asking for Seconds

    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • Sliced air fryer roast beef.
      Air Fryer Roast Beef
    • top down view of a tortellini casserole
      Cheesy Tortellini Casserole with Spinach
    • Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake [Dump and bake!]
    • sliced rib eye steak topped with salt
      How to Cook a Rib Eye Steak Without a Cast Iron Skillet (3 Methods)

    Popular Articles

    • Sloppy joe tater tot casserole.
      24 Cheap Casseroles We’re Craving Right Now
    • Chicken thigh tray bake.
      22 Dump-And-Go Recipes That Will Make You Love Cooking Again
    • Tikka masala.
      22 Delicious Crockpot Chicken Meals You Can Just Set and Forget
    • 19 Family Friendly Slow Cooker Meals That Are Perfect for Meal Prep

    We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

    All affiliate links are always marked with "*" or "affiliate".

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    A collage of sites where always use butter content has been featured.

    About

    • About
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Disclaimer
    • Disclosures
    • Editorial Policy
    • Accessibility Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up!

    Contact

    • Contact
    • info@alwaysusebutter.com
    • Pink Giraffe Ventures AB, Runstens Byväg 51, 147 91 Grödinge, Sweden
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    Copyright © 2018-2025 Pink Giraffe Ventures AB