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    Home » Best Of

    19 Simple Homemade Dishes That Are Big On Taste And Low On Effort

    Modified: May 9, 2025 by Sarita Harbour · Published: Mar 1, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links and Amazon links

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    You don’t need hours in the kitchen or a long list of ingredients to make a great meal. Cooking at home can be simple, stress-free, and just as satisfying as anything from a restaurant. These recipes are perfect for busy nights, last-minute meals, or when you just want something easy without sacrificing flavor. With a few basic ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up simple homemade dishes that feel effortless but still hit the spot. If you want reliable, no-fuss meals that make cooking less of a chore, this list has you covered.

    Best Ever Homemade Sourdough Donut Recipe with Glaze

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    Best Ever Homemade Sourdough Donut Recipe with Glaze. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These sourdough donuts have a light, fluffy texture and just the right amount of sweetness. The fermentation process adds depth of flavor without making the recipe complicated. If you’re looking for simple homemade dishes, this one is a must-try.
    Get the Recipe: Best Ever Homemade Sourdough Donut Recipe with Glaze

    Easy Homemade No-Knead Artisan Cheese Bread Recipe

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    Easy Homemade No-Knead Artisan Cheese Bread Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    This cheese bread comes together with minimal effort and bakes up with a crispy crust and soft center. No kneading is required, making it perfect for busy days. It’s one of those simple homemade dishes that feels special without extra work.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade No-Knead Artisan Cheese Bread Recipe

    Easy Homemade Pork Sausage Recipe

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    Easy Homemade Pork Sausage Recipe. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

    Making pork sausage at home lets you control the ingredients while keeping it budget-friendly. With just a few spices and ground pork, you’ll have a flavorful, versatile option for breakfast or dinner. It’s an easy way to add to your collection of simple homemade dishes.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Pork Sausage Recipe

    Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe

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    Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This vegetable soup is packed with fresh ingredients and can be customized with whatever you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up extra produce while making a warm, hearty meal. If you love simple homemade dishes, this one is a keeper.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe

    Easy Honey Graham Cornbread Recipe

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    Easy Honey Graham Cornbread Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This cornbread has just the right balance of sweetness and texture, making it a great side for soups or stews. The honey gives it a rich flavor without extra fuss. It’s a solid choice for simple homemade dishes that everyone will enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Graham Cornbread Recipe

    Frugal Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe

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    Frugal Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Freshly baked sandwich bread costs less than store-bought and tastes so much better. This recipe is simple enough for beginners and delivers soft, sturdy slices every time. It’s one of the easiest simple homemade dishes for anyone wanting fresh bread without the markup.
    Get the Recipe: Frugal Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe

    Homemade Tater Tots

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    Homemade Tater Tots. Photo credit: The Honour System.

    Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these homemade tater tots are worth making from scratch. They use simple pantry ingredients and are a great way to use up extra potatoes. If you’re looking for simple homemade dishes, this one is a fun and budget-friendly choice.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Tater Tots

    Creamy Zucchini Pasta Sauce Recipe with Parmesan

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    Creamy Zucchini Pasta Sauce Recipe with Parmesan. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    This creamy zucchini sauce is a great way to add extra vegetables to your meal while keeping things easy. The Parmesan adds richness without overpowering the fresh flavors. It’s a quick and delicious addition to your lineup of simple homemade dishes.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Zucchini Pasta Sauce Recipe with Parmesan

    Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

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    Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal, these homemade dinner rolls come together with just a few ingredients. They’re simple enough for everyday dinners but special enough for holidays. If you need simple homemade dishes that impress, this recipe is a great pick.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

    Easy Creamy Homemade Nutella Spread Recipe

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    Easy Creamy Homemade Nutella Spread Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This homemade version of Nutella is rich, chocolatey, and made with simple ingredients. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for spreading on toast or drizzling over pancakes. If you love simple homemade dishes, this sweet spread is a great one to try.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Creamy Homemade Nutella Spread Recipe

    Easy Sausage-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Kale

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    Easy Sausage-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Kale. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    This stuffed acorn squash is packed with sausage, kale, and plenty of flavor. It’s hearty, easy to make, and perfect for a cozy dinner. If you’re after simple homemade dishes that feel filling and nutritious, this one delivers.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Sausage-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Kale

    Whole Grain Artisan Bread Recipe

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    Whole Grain Artisan Bread Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This whole grain bread has a crispy crust and a soft, chewy center. The recipe is simple, requiring minimal hands-on time while still producing a bakery-quality loaf. It’s a great addition to your list of simple homemade dishes.
    Get the Recipe: Whole Grain Artisan Bread Recipe

    Stovetop Sourdough English Muffins Recipe

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    Stovetop Sourdough English Muffins Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These homemade English muffins cook up on the stovetop and have that classic sourdough tang. They’re light, airy, and perfect for breakfast sandwiches or slathering with butter. If you enjoy simple homemade dishes, this recipe is a great one to have on hand.
    Get the Recipe: Stovetop Sourdough English Muffins Recipe

    How to Make Homemade Pancake Syrup

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    How to Make Homemade Pancake Syrup. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Store-bought syrup can’t compete with the rich flavor of homemade. This easy recipe uses just a few pantry staples and comes together in minutes. It’s a great option for anyone who enjoys simple homemade dishes with fewer additives.
    Get the Recipe: How to Make Homemade Pancake Syrup

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup

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    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    This pot pie is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey without making another boring sandwich. The creamy filling and flaky crust make it a comforting meal with minimal effort. If you’re looking for simple homemade dishes that cut down on food waste, this one is a winner.
    Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup

    Almond Milk Pancakes Recipe

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    Almond Milk Pancakes Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These pancakes are soft, fluffy, and a great alternative for anyone who prefers almond milk. They cook up quickly and work well with any toppings you like. If simple homemade dishes are your thing, these pancakes make breakfast easy.
    Get the Recipe: Almond Milk Pancakes Recipe

    Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

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    Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    This cheesy hamburger casserole is the kind of meal that comes together fast but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s hearty, kid-friendly, and great for busy weeknights. If you need simple homemade dishes that please a crowd, this one’s a solid choice.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

    Homemade Clear Vegetable Soup Recipe

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    Homemade Clear Vegetable Soup Recipe. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

    Light but full of flavor, this clear vegetable soup is great for when you want something warm and fresh. It’s easy to make and works with whatever vegetables you have on hand. If you’re after simple homemade dishes that feel wholesome, this one is a great fit.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Clear Vegetable Soup Recipe

    Chicken Jerky Recipe

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    Chicken Jerky Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Making chicken jerky at home is easy, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep. With simple seasonings and a bit of drying time, you get a protein-packed snack without extra additives. It’s a good example of how simple homemade dishes can be both practical and delicious.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Jerky Recipe

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    Sarita Harbour.

    I'm Sarita. My family and I lived off the grid for 11 years in Canada's far north. If I did it, you can too.

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