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

    25 Easy Dump-and-Cook Meals That Save You Time

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on October 20, 2025, updated September 17, 2025 - Leave a Comment

    These 25 dump-and-cook meals are perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss the ingredients into a pot or slow cooker, and let them do the work for you. Enjoy simple, flavorful dishes that save you time and effort.

    Easy Wonton Soup

    Wonton soup.
    Photo credit: Inquiring Chef.

    Frozen wontons and pre-chopped veggies make this Wonton Soup super quick to prepare. It's a simple meal that comes together in no time, perfect for busy evenings. Just toss everything together, and you have a warm, comforting soup ready to enjoy.

    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 Chicken Pasta Bake

    No Boil Chicken Pasta Bake.
    Photo credit: Cooking With Carlee.

    Dinner can be a breeze with this simple no-boil chicken pasta bake. It requires very little prep and delivers a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for busy evenings, this dish is both easy to make and delicious.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Sausage and Vegetables

    Sheet Pan Sausage and Vegetables.
    Photo Credit: Budget Delicious.

    This sheet pan sausage and vegetables recipe offers a simple way to enjoy a tasty and balanced meal, even on the busiest days. The mix of roasted sausage, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and kale creates a vibrant and satisfying dish that everyone will love. It's a great option for those evenings when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    Cajun Chicken Pasta Casserole

    Cajun chicken pasta casserole.
    Photo credit: Practically Homemade.

    Cajun flavors are always a hit, and this casserole is super easy to prepare. You can skip the step of boiling pasta, which saves time and effort. As it bakes, a creamy sauce develops that really brings everything together.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Tangy Apple Slaw

    Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Tangy Apple Slaw.
    Photo Credit: Killing Thyme.

    Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is packed with a mix of flavors that everyone loves, including smoky, sweet, salty, and a hint of spice. It's simple to prepare and can be served on a bun topped with crunchy apple slaw for a delicious sandwich. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

    Get the Recipe

    Baked Chicken & Potatoes

    Baked chicken and potatoes.
    Photo credit: Little Sunny Kitchen.

    This baked chicken and potatoes dish is a simple one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken with a flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce, crispy potatoes, and tasty, slightly charred broccoli. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something wholesome without putting in a lot of work. Plus, it's easy to clean up afterward, making it a great choice for busy evenings.

    Get the recipe

    Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

    Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole.
    Photo Credit: Cook Dinner Tonight.

    Ritz cracker chicken casserole is a creamy dish featuring tender chicken and a crunchy topping of buttery cracker crumbs. This simple dinner can be put together in just a few minutes with hardly any preparation needed. It's perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting and satisfying without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    No Boil Cheesy Ham and Macaroni Casserole

    No Boil Cheesy Ham and Macaroni Casserole.
    Photo Credit: Cooking with Carlee.

    Cheesy ham and macaroni casserole is creamy and comforting. It comes together with very little effort, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner. This dish is simple to prepare and satisfying, perfect for when you want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken

    Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken.
    Photo Credit: Maria's Mixing Bowl.

    Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken is a simple and tasty dish that brings together zesty flavors with minimal effort. The combination of au jus and ranch seasonings, along with pepperoncini, creates a delicious gravy that really enhances the chicken. This meal is perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    The Best Vegetarian Chili

    Vegetarian chili and a wooden spoon.
    Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud.

    This vegetarian chili is packed with flavor and can be made in a Crock Pot or on the stovetop, depending on what you prefer. It's hearty and satisfying, so you won't even notice the absence of meat. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is simple to prepare and full of delicious ingredients.

    Get the recipe

    Creamy Crockpot Tortellini

    A bowl filled with Creamy Crockpot Tortellini.
    Photo Credit: Slow Cooker Meals.

    This dish is all about simplicity and great flavor. Using frozen tortellini, it cooks up quickly in a rich, creamy sauce that everyone will enjoy. It's perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

    Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
    Photo Credit: Inquiring Chef.

    Slow cooker white chicken chili is a simple and satisfying dish that requires only a few ingredients and no pre-cooking. You can easily adjust the thickness of the chili with options for using dairy or not. Plus, there are plenty of topping ideas to customize it to your liking.

    Get the recipe

    Sheet Pan Roast Pork Tenderloin with Potatoes

    Sheet Pan Roast Pork Tenderloin with Potatoes.
    Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud.

    Sheet Pan Roast Pork Tenderloin with potatoes is a fantastic option for a healthy and satisfying meal. This dish is easy to prepare and delivers tender, juicy pork alongside perfectly roasted potatoes. It's perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    Southern Baked Chicken Thighs

    SOUTHERN BAKED CHICKEN THIGHS.
    Photo credit: Healthy Mom Healthy Family.

    This chicken dish is super simple and only requires three ingredients. It turns out crispy and tasty, making it a great option for dinner. With minimal effort, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

    Get the recipe

    Meatball Pasta Bake

    Meatball Pasta Bake.
    Photo credit: Beyond the Chicken Coop.

    The Meatball Pasta Bake is a simple dish that you can throw together and bake in the oven, and it even cooks the pasta right inside. Using frozen meatballs, mozzarella cheese, penne pasta, and your go-to marinara sauce, this meal comes together with minimal effort. It's perfect for a cozy dinner when you want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo

    Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo.
    Photo Credit: Fit As a Mama Bear.

    This creamy chicken dish cooked in a slow cooker is sure to be a hit with your family. It's simple to prepare, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need a quick meal.

    Get the Recipe

    Ground Beef Chili

    Ground Beef Chili.
    Photo Credit: The Rustic Foodie.

    This healthy chili is made in the slow cooker with beans, corn, peppers, and masa harina. It's packed with flavors from the Southwest and is super easy to prepare. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish brings warmth and comfort without needing much effort.

    Get the Recipe

    White Chicken Chili with Salsa Verde

    White Chicken Chili with Salsa Verde.
    Photo Credit: Haute & Healthy Living.

    This slow cooker White Chicken Chili with Salsa Verde is healthy and hearty and makes the perfect easy recipe for meal prepping. Cook a big batch of chil and freeze any leftovers for a quick and convenient dinner for the whole family!

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

    Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken.
    Photo Credit: Our Love Language is Food.

    This dish is full of tropical flavors and is super easy to prepare. Just toss everything together and let it cook, making it a great option for your family's dinner plans. It's perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

    Get the Recipe

    Sheet Pan Sausage and Potatoes

    Sheet Pan Sausage and Potatoes.
    Photo Credit: Quiche My Grits.

    This Sheet Pan Sausage and Potatoes dish is super simple to prepare. With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have everything baking together in one pan. It's a great option for weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner.

    Get the Recipe

    Chicken Thigh Tray Bake

    Chicken thigh tray bake.
    Photo credit: Living Lou.

    This chicken thigh tray bake is simple and ideal for a quick family dinner during the week, taking less than 45 minutes to prepare. Just toss chicken thighs, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and carrots together with a tasty marinade and roast them all at once. It's an easy way to get a delicious meal on the table without spending too much time in the kitchen.

    Get the recipe

    Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

    Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs.
    Photo Credit: Slow Cooker Meals.

    Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs are a great choice for anyone who enjoys flavorful chicken. Cooked in BBQ sauce, they develop a nice sweet and smoky taste, and finishing them under the broiler gives them a crispy texture. With just a few ingredients and only 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for a cozy meal.

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Chicken Adobo

    Slow Cooker Chicken Adobo
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    Slow Cooker Chicken Adobo is a great way to mix things up for dinner during the week. The sauce combines soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a bit of tangy vinegar, creating a flavorful dish that pairs well with rice and steamed veggies. It's simple to prepare and makes a satisfying meal for the whole family.

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

    Slow Cooker Pulled Pork.
    Photo Credit: The Kitchen Girl.

    Slow cooker pulled pork is a simple and tasty dish that everyone will enjoy. Using a well-seasoned pork shoulder, this recipe allows the meat to cook slowly, resulting in juicy and flavorful pulled pork. It's perfect for gatherings or just a cozy dinner at home, and it requires very little effort to prepare.

    Get the Recipe

    One Pan Turkey Breast and Veggies

    One Pan Turkey Breast and Veggies.
    Photo Credit: Like Hot Keto.

    A juicy turkey breast roasted with garlic and butter sits on a bed of vibrant, low-carb vegetables. This simple one-pan meal is packed with protein and full of flavor. It's an easy dinner option that anyone can whip up without much effort.

    Get the Recipe

    More Recipe Roundups

    • Smash burger quesadilla.
      19 Hearty Ground Beef Meals That Will Make Everyone Ask for Seconds
    • Roasted gnocchi with veggies.
      22 Dump-And-Bake Recipes That Will Impress Anyone
    • Gnocchi soup.
      19 Crockpot Recipes So Easy Anyone Can Make Them
    • 24 Cheap Soups That Will Transform Your Weeknight Meals

    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

    • White chicken chili.
      25 Easy Dump-and-Cook Meals That Save You Time
    • French onion pork chops.
      42 Must-Try Air Fryer Recipes That Will Change the Way You Cook
    • Oven baked BBQ chicken.
      19 Irresistible Dishes That Will Have Everyone Asking for Seconds
    • Greek chicken.
      21 Set-and-Forget Chicken Dishes That Cook Themselves While You Relax

    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