The Best 15-Minute Recipes of All Time

Tasty Turkey and Mushrooms

Fresh mushrooms star in this tender turkey entree that comes together in 15 minutes. Served with a side of brown rice, it makes a light but satisfying dinner. —Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey

Tilapia with Corn Salsa

My family loves fish, and this quick and tasty dish is very popular at my house. Though it tastes like it takes a long time, it cooks in minutes under the broiler. We enjoy it with lemon wedges with couscous on the side. —Brenda Coffey, Singer Island, Florida

Roasted Red Pepper Tapenade

When entertaining, I often rely on my pepper tapenade recipe because it takes only 15 minutes to whip up and pop in the fridge. Sometimes I swap out the almonds for walnuts or pecans. —Donna Magliaro, Denville, New Jersey

Shrimp Ramen

A package of store-bought noodles will speed up assembly of this colorful shrimp ramen that's flavored with carrots and small shrimp. My mother passed the recipe on to me. It’s delicious and so quick to make on busy nights. —Donna Hellinger, Lorain, Ohio

Blue Cheese Potato Chips

Game day calls for something bold. I top potato chips with tomatoes, bacon and tangy blue cheese. I make two big pans, and they always disappear. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin

Bananas Foster Sundaes

I have wonderful memories of eating bananas Foster in New Orleans, and as a dietitian, wanted to find a healthier version. I combined the best of two recipes and added my own tweaks to create this southern treat. —Lisa Varner, Charleston, South Carolina

Artichoke Caprese Platter

I dressed up the classic Italian trio of mozzarella, tomatoes and basil with marinated artichokes. It looks so yummy on a pretty platter set out on a buffet. Using fresh mozzarella is the key to its great taste. —Margaret Wilson, San Bernardino, California

Orange Spiced Ham Steak

I turn orange marmalade, mustard and just a hint of ginger into a glaze for ham that comes together super quick but feels exceptional. And that makes it perfect for when I’m entertaining brunch guests! —Connie Moore, Medway, Ohio

Chicken Bagel Melts

I love experimenting with sandwiches, and my wonderful husband is often my guinea pig when I try something new. Here’s a great way to use up leftover chicken. It’s a little on the spicy side, but we love it. —Shannon Brown, Omaha, Nebraska

Beef Tostadas

Chipotle sauce gives this meaty tostada recipe just the right amount of heat to fire up a fiesta at the dinner table. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

French Bread Pizza

Slices of this hearty french bread pizza are guaranteed to please. I sometimes substitute spaghetti sauce for the pizza sauce, or add our favorite veggies to the toppings. —Sue McLaughlin, Onawa, Iowa

Avocado Turkey Salad

Grape tomatoes and avocado chunks add pretty color and fresh flavor to this main-dish salad. In a pinch, substitute half-and half or milk for the whipping cream, adding a teaspoon at a time until you get the desired consistency. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Korean Beef and Rice

A friend raved about Korean bulgogi, which is beef cooked in soy sauce and ginger, so I tried it. It's delicious! You'll dazzle the table with this tasty version of Korean beef and rice. —Elizabeth King, Duluth, Minnesota

Looking for more yummy inspirations like this? Then, next time give our community cook’s best recipes a try.

Grilled Angel Food Cake with Fruit Salsa

When I need dessert fast, I go with angel food cake. Mix fruit salsa ahead of time, and pop the cake on the grill. —Glorimar Jimenez, Indianapolis, Indiana

Thymed Zucchini Saute

Simple and flavorful, this recipe is a tasty and healthy way to use up all those zucchini that are taking over your garden. It's ready in hardly any time! —Bobby Taylor, Ulster Park, New York

Tomato-Basil Baked Fish

This recipe works successfully with many kinds of fish, while the rest of the ingredients are things you’re likely to have on hand. Baked fish is so simple and so good for you. I make this often! —Annie Hicks, Zephyrhills, Florida

Salsa Roja

With the help of my food processor, I can have fresh homemade salsa ready in just 15 minutes. The lime juice works wonders in bringing out all the flavors, and you can really taste the cilantro. —Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas

Tangy Sirloin Strips

My love of cooking started when I was trying to earn my Girl Scout cooking badge. My family savors the sweet sauce on these skewers. —Joanne Haldeman, Bainbridge, Pennsylvania

BLT Wraps

My mom and I used to make these easy wrap-ups for summer days at the lake with our entire family. These days, we love to bring them to picnics and days in the park. —Jonnah Burks, Brighton, Missouri

Haddock with Lime-Cilantro Butter

Here in Louisiana, the good times roll when we broil fish and serve it with lots of lime juice, cilantro and butter. —Darlene Morris, Franklinton, Louisiana

Mushroom Cheese Bread

This savory grilled bread is delightful with barbecued steak, baked potatoes and corn on the cob. For variation, we sometimes use half cheddar cheese and half mozzarella. —Dolly McDonald, Edmonton, Alberta

Snappy Tuna Melts

I lightened up a tuna melt by switching mayo to creamy balsamic vinaigrette. Kids and adults both go for this quick meal hero. —Christine Schenher, Exeter, California

Easy Peasy Slaw

I get tons of compliments when I bring out this slaw brightened up with peas, peanuts and poppy seed dressing. It’s fresh and colorful with a satisfying crunch. —Sue Ort, Des Moines, Iowa

Curry Shrimp

I created this Indian-style shrimp when we were entertaining some friends, one of our favorite things to do. It works on the stovetop or the grill. —Shana Conradt, Appleton, Wisconsin

Fire and Ice Tomatoes

You won't miss the salt in this refreshing tomato salad! It's well-seasoned with cayenne pepper, mustard seed and vinegar but not the least bit spicy. This dish is always a hit at potlucks. —Nan Rickey, Yuma, Arizona

Pizza Quesadillas

When my husband and I needed a quick meal, I fixed this recipe using leftover ingredients. Unlike traditional Mexican quesadillas, it calls for Italian meats, cheeses and seasoning. Serve it with a green salad for a simple dinner for two. —Barbara Rupert, Edgefield, South Carolina

Nutty Broccoli Slaw

My daughter gave me the recipe for this delightful salad. The sweet dressing nicely coats a crisp blend of broccoli slaw mix, onions, almonds and sunflower kernels. Crushed ramen noodles provide even more crunch. It's a smash hit wherever I take it. —Dora Mae Clapsaddle, Kensington, Ohio

Blueberry Graham Dessert

When you're short on time but long for cheesecake, try this fruity dessert. Ricotta and cream cheeses give every bit as much flavor as cheesecake without the effort. Instead of making individual servings, you could layer the ingredients in a glass serving bowl. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Red Beans and Sausage

Turkey sausage can make a traditional dish appeal to more health-conscious cooks and eaters, while a zesty blend of seasonings lets it keep its spark. —Cathy Webster, Morris, Illinois

Fancy Fuss-Free Torte

Thanks to frozen pound cake and a can of pie filling, this torte is easy to make. If layers slide, keep them in place with toothpicks around the edges as you build. Just remove before serving. —Joan Causey, Greenwood, Arkansas

Salsa Rice

It's a snap to change the spice level in this popular rice side dish by choosing a milder or hotter salsa. It's a delicious way to round out burritos or tacos when the clock is ticking. —Molly Ingle, Canton, North Carolina

Layered Picnic Loaves

This big sandwich, inspired by one I tried at a New York deli, is a favorite with our football-watching crowd. Made ahead, it's easily carted to any gathering. Kids and adults alike say it's super. —Marion Lowery, Medford, Oregon

No-Cook Fresh Tomato Sauce

Try this sauce at times when you have a box of pasta or a store-bought pizza shell and need a sure-fire topping. Dinner is served. —Julianne Schnuck, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Sourdough Turkey Melts

When days feel rushed, these sandwiches with turkey and green chiles are one of my favorite standbys. They stack up in about 10 minutes, honestly. —Leah Carter, San Pedro, California

Super Quick Shrimp and Green Chile Quesadillas

If I am really short on time, I head to the grocery store for prepared guacamole. Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of shrimp for another fun option. —Angie Ressa, Cheney, Washington

Basil & Heirloom Tomato Toss

I came up with this garden-fresh salad to showcase the heirloom tomatoes and peppers we raised for our stall at the farmers market. Try out other types of basil like lemon, lime, licorice and cinnamon. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

Tortilla Chicken Bean Soup

Tasty toppings jazz up this no-fuss soup that has Mexican flair. The recipe for this sure-to-please soup was given to me by a friend. I make it often for company, and everyone asks for the recipe. You can substitute pinto beans in red chili sauce for the regular pinto beans and cumin called for in the recipe. —Michelle Larson, Greentown, Indiana

Spicy Shrimp Salsa

Radishes add a wonderful crunch to this colorful salsa that is also superb over grilled fish. There's just enough jalapeno to give flavor without much of the heat. —Mary Beth Relyea, Canastota, New York

Mexican Chocolate Dip

Chocolate, cinnamon and a touch of heat are a classic Mexican trio. Any fruit goes in this fudgy dip. And don’t forget the churros! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Cranberry Turkey Wraps

Fruity and flavorful, these hefty grab-and-go handfuls are quick to assemble, easy to handle and low in calories. We often take them in a cooler to the local stock show and eat them in the stands. Everyone seems to love them! —Bobbie Keefer, Byers, Colorado

Citrus-Marinated Salmon

This is the perfect thing to make for a speedy, healthy meal. I sometimes prepare the marinade in the morning and put the salmon in when I get home from work. Within 30 minutes, they’re sizzling on the grill. Add a salad and dinner’s ready! —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Lemon Broccoli

Add a hint of citrus to your vegetables with an attractive side dish. Ideal with most any entree, this time-saving specialty dresses up broccoli, pimientos and onions with a dash of lemon. —Tonya Farmer, Iowa City, Iowa

Benedictine Dip

Benedictine is a creamy spread studded with chopped cucumbers. It was named in honor of Jennie Carter Benedict, a chef and restaurateur from Louisville, Kentucky, who created the condiment at the turn of the 20th century. Originally used for cucumber sandwiches, Benedictine is now commonly enjoyed as a cold dip for chips or spread on crackers. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Black Bean Burritos

My neighbor and I discovered these delicious low-fat burritos a few years ago. On nights my husband or I have a meeting, we can have a satisfying supper on the table in minutes. —Angela Studebaker, Goshen, Indiana

Shrimp Pasta Primavera

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. So when I invite that special guy to dinner, I like to prepare something equally wonderful. This well-seasoned pasta dish has lots of flavor, and it won't hurt your budget! —Shari Neff, Takoma Park, Maryland

Tasty Marinated Tomatoes

My niece introduced me to this colorful recipe some time ago. I now make it when I have buffets or large gatherings because it can be prepared hours ahead. This is a great way to use a bumper crop of tomatoes. —Myrtle Matthews, Marietta, Georgia

Fresh Fruit Salsa

This salad has all the bright colors and fresh flavors of summer. —Mary E. Relyea, Canastota, New York.

Caesar Chicken with Feta

My tomatoey chicken is the perfect answer on those crazy days when supper has to be on the table in 30 minutes, tops (doesn't hurt that it's delicious, too). —Denise Chelpka, Phoenix, Arizona

Avocado Sandwiches

Try my avocado sandwich for an exciting flavor twist on grilled cheese. The avocados make them extra creamy. —Deborah Williams, Peoria, Arizona

Blueberry Chicken Salad

On weekday mornings, I whip up this fun chicken and blueberry combination in minutes to take for lunch. It also works as a nice light salad for a summer supper, and it’s a cinch to double it for a shower or potluck. —Kari Caven, Coeur d'Alene, ID

Citrus Scallops

My husband and I like to eat seafood at least once a week. Oranges and lemon juice give scallops a refreshing burst of flavor. —Cheri Hawthorne, North Canton, Ohio

Curried Chicken Salad with Pineapple and Grapes

This fun and flavorful beauty turns last night’s cooked chicken into a delightful salad that’s perfect for lunch. —Linda Bevill, Monticello, Arkansas

Ranchero Supper

This hearty dish is fast and easy to fix after a busy workday. We like to use hickory and bacon baked beans and serve it with fruit or a green salad for a complete meal. —Karen Roberts, Lawrence, Kansas

Garden Tomato Salad

For as long as I can remember, Mom made a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers. Now I make it whenever beautiful tomatoes are in reach. —Shannon Arthur, Upper Arlington, Ohio

Three-Cheese Pepperoncini Spread

Our big family loves to celebrate with food. Here’s my take on a cheesy Greek spread known as Kopanisti. We serve it with pita crisps or crackers. —Michael Hall, Goodland, Indiana

Quick Crab Melts

Two types of cheese on top of a savory crab mixture make these open-faced sandwiches ooey-gooey good! I usually serve them for dinner, but they also make a great app when cut in half. —Donna Bennett, Bramalea, Ontario

Swift Strawberry Salad

A simple blend of syrup, orange juice and caramel topping forms the light dressing for the fresh berries and the crunchy cashews found in this sensational salad. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Seasoned Fries

Instead of making French fries from scratch, I reach for frozen spuds and make them my own with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. They’re always popular with my family. —Maribeth Edwards, Follansbee, West Virginia

Jazzed-Up Clam Chowder

No one ever guesses that my dressed-up chowder comes from canned ingredients. —Josephine Piro, Easton, Pennsylvania

Fruit Compote With Brie

This yummy compote is so versatile. I stir it into yogurt or serve it over cheesecake, ice cream, blintzes and crepes. And of course, it makes Brie taste amazing! —Clara Coulson Minney, Washington Court House, Ohio

Zesty Grilled Ham

If it's ham, my kids will eat it, but they like this kicked-up recipe best of all. Even the small ones eat adult-sized portions, so be sure to make plenty. —Mary Ann Lien, Tyler, Texas

Caramel-Pecan Apple Slices

Here’s a warm, decadent side dish for fall or winter brunches. Ready to eat in only 15 minutes, the apples are also good alongside a pork entree or spooned over vanilla ice cream. —Carol Gillespie, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania

I wanted to create an easy recipe to use some remaining pesto I had. I put a few ingredients together, and came up with a quick breakfast that really satisfies. —Lisa Waterman, Lewistown, Montana

Zippy Curry Dip

Everyone eats their vegetables when this creamy dip is served alongside them. The curry flavor gets stronger the longer the dip stands, so I like to make it in advance. —Priscilla Steffke, Wausau, Wisconsin

Lime Broiled Catfish

To serve a reduced-calorie dish that is ready in about 15 minutes, I came up with this fast, simple recipe. I think the lime juice adds a different fresh flavor to the mild taste of the fish. —Nick Nicholson, Clarksdale, Mississippi

Minty Sugar Snap Peas

Fresh mint adds a lively touch to cooked sugar snap peas. It's also nice on green beans or carrots. —Alice Kaldahl, Ray, North Dakota

Garlic Toast Pizzas

Between working full-time, going to school and raising three children, finding time-saving recipes that my family likes is one of my biggest challenges. These quick pizzas pack a huge amount of flavor. —Amy Grim, Chillicothe, Ohio

Honey-Yogurt Berry Salad

I wanted my family to eat more fruit but not more sugary ingredients. This berry salad lets you play with different low-fat yogurts and fruits. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota

Herb-Happy Garlic Bread

You'll love the fresh garlic and herbs in this recipe. The mild goat cheese that’s sprinkled on top makes it extra rich and wonderful. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Pizza Wraps

This recipe features the flavors of your favorite pie but only takes a few minutes to make—and there’s no cooking or baking required. Perfect for when you’re rushing to get kids on the bus! —Elizabeth Dumont, Boulder, Colorado

Fluffed Fruit Salad

I like this recipe because I can prepare it in advance when entertaining, and it never disappoints. Even people who don’t care for cranberries like this treat. —Christine Halandras, Meeker, Colorado

Montego Bay Chicken

You don't need high-fat ingredients to make this grilled chicken taste good. The marinade both flavors and tenderizes the meat. —Julie De Matteo, Clementon, New Jersey

Pay Dirt Cake

With layers of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and creamy filling, this is definitely a “rich” dessert. You can decorate the top with a few wrapped chocolate coins. —Betty Jean Jordan, Monticello, Georgia