30 Hearty Meals You Can Make With What’s in Your Pantry
Staring into your pantry, wondering what culinary magic you can conjure? We’ve all been there! Forget the takeout menus and embrace the challenge. It’s time to unleash your inner chef and whip up some seriously satisfying meals using the humble ingredients already lurking on your shelves.
Pasta Aglio e Olio Recipe
Garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and pasta. That’s it! This simple Italian classic is a pantry superhero. The key is to cook the garlic low and slow to infuse the oil with its flavor. Toss with perfectly cooked pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan (if you have it) for a truly satisfying meal.
Cheesy Rice Recipe
Rice, broth, and cheese – that’s all you need for this simple side dish that becomes a full meal with some vegetables. Think of it as a super easy risotto without all the stirring. Customize with your favorite cheese and spices for a cozy and comforting dish.
Lentil Soup Recipe
Lentils, broth, and a few aromatics like onion and garlic transform into a hearty and nutritious soup. Add carrots, celery, or canned tomatoes if you have them, but it’s delicious even in its simplest form. A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens everything up.
Black Bean Burgers Recipe
Canned black beans, breadcrumbs, and some spices are the base for these vegetarian burgers. Mash the beans, mix in the breadcrumbs and seasonings, form into patties, and bake or pan-fry. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Tuna Pasta Bake Recipe
Tuna, pasta, and a creamy sauce made with pantry staples? Yes, please! This bake is comfort food at its finest. Add some breadcrumbs on top for a crispy crust.
Peanut Noodles Recipe
Peanut butter, soy sauce, noodles and sriracha make for the quickest noodle bowl. Add an egg on top for extra flavour.
White Bean Dip Recipe
Puree canned white beans with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for a healthy and flavorful dip. Serve with crackers, veggies, or pita bread.
Tomato Soup Recipe
Canned tomatoes, broth, and a touch of cream (optional) simmer together to create a classic tomato soup. Blend for a smooth and velvety texture and serve with grilled cheese croutons.
Chickpea Curry Recipe
Canned chickpeas, coconut milk, and curry powder create a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian curry. Serve with rice or naan bread.
Oatmeal Recipe
Oats and water (or milk) cooked together until creamy. Top with fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey for a simple and nutritious breakfast.
Rice Pudding Recipe
Rice, milk, sugar, and vanilla simmered until thick and creamy. A comforting and nostalgic dessert that’s easy to make with pantry staples.
Polenta Recipe
Cornmeal cooked in water or broth until creamy and smooth. Top with cheese, vegetables, or a meat sauce for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Popcorn Recipe
Popcorn kernels popped on the stovetop or in the microwave. A simple and satisfying snack that can be customized with your favorite seasonings.
Pancake Recipe
Flour, baking powder, milk, and eggs whisked together and cooked on a griddle. Top with syrup, fruit, or chocolate chips for a classic breakfast.
Baked Potato Recipe
A simple baked potato is a blank canvas for all sorts of pantry creations. Top with chili, cheese, beans, or sour cream for a satisfying meal.
Grits Recipe
Grits cooked in water or broth until creamy. Top with cheese, shrimp, or vegetables for a Southern-inspired meal.
Sardine Toast Recipe
Canned sardines on toast is a quick and easy protein-packed meal. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon juice and red pepper flakes.
Canned Salmon Patties Recipe
Canned salmon, breadcrumbs, and egg formed into patties and pan-fried. Serve with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon.
Spaghetti with Garlic Recipe
Spaghetti tossed with sautéed garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. A simple and flavorful meal that’s ready in minutes.
Mac and Cheese Recipe
Pasta tossed in a creamy cheese sauce. A classic comfort food that’s easy to make with pantry staples.
Pinto Bean Soup Recipe
Dried pinto beans cooked with broth and aromatics. A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cold day.
Canned Corn Fritters Recipe
Canned corn mixed with flour, egg, and seasonings. Fried until golden brown and served with a dipping sauce.
Ramen Upgrade Recipe
Elevate instant ramen with soy sauce, sriracha, a soft-boiled egg, and some chopped green onions (if you have them).
Scrambled Tofu Recipe
Crumble firm tofu and sauté with spices like turmeric and cumin for a vegan alternative to scrambled eggs.
Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Broth simmered with a whisked egg drizzled in for silky ribbons of egg. A quick and easy soup that’s perfect for a light meal.
Cornbread Recipe
Cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and milk baked until golden brown. A classic side dish that’s perfect with chili or soup.
Crackers and Cheese Recipe
A simple and satisfying snack or light meal. Pair your favorite crackers with cheese and add some fruit or nuts if you have them.
Breakfast Burrito Recipe
Scrambled eggs, beans, cheese, and salsa wrapped in a tortilla. A customizable and portable breakfast or lunch.
Quesadillas Recipe
Cheese melted between two tortillas. Add beans, vegetables, or leftover meat for a heartier meal.
Yogurt Parfait Recipe
Layer yogurt with granola and fruit (fresh or dried) for a healthy and satisfying breakfast or snack.