20 Easy 4 Ingredient Recipes Perfect for Beginners

When it comes to cooking, simplicity can be a beautiful thing. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can create delicious meals that won’t break the bank or take up too much of your time. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 easy 4-ingredient recipes perfect for beginners. Whether you’re a culinary newbie or just looking to mix things up in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become quick favorites. From sweet treats like peanut butter cookies and chocolate mug cake, to savory dishes like garlic parmesan chicken and slow cooker BBQ pulled pork, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouthwatering recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and tips for success.

4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

These classic cookies are a staple for any peanut butter lover. With just four ingredients, you can whip up a batch of chewy and flavorful treats in no time.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter and sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned on the edges.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

4-Ingredient Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This recipe is a classic combination of flavors that is sure to please. With only four ingredients, it’s also incredibly easy to make!

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together minced garlic and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the garlic-breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of each chicken breast.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

4-Ingredient Banana Pancakes

Start your day with a stack of fluffy banana pancakes that are ready in no time! This simple recipe uses just four ingredients to create a tasty treat that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the mashed bananas, flour, and milk. Stir until smooth.
2. Crack in the egg and mix until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch (depending on the size of your pancakes)

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork

Elevate your slow cooker game with this ridiculously simple recipe that yields tender, flavorful pulled pork with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. Perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the glaze over the pork shoulder.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

That’s it! Serve with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or baked beans, and enjoy the oohs and aahs from your guests.

4-Ingredient Avocado Egg Salad

This refreshing egg salad recipe combines the richness of avocado with the simplicity of hard-boiled eggs, all wrapped up in a flavorful package. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

Ingredients:

– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped eggs and diced avocado.
2. Add the mayonnaise and mix until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: None! Just chop, mix, and chill.

Enjoy your creamy avocado egg salad!

4-Ingredient Chocolate Mug Cake

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and decadent chocolate mug cake that’s ready in just a few minutes. With only four ingredients, you can’t go wrong!

Ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon instant chocolate pudding mix

Instructions:

1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, cocoa powder, and pudding mix.
2. Add milk to the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Let cool for a minute, then enjoy!

Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes

4-Ingredient Honey Mustard Salmon

This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard to create a flavorful and moist salmon dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just four ingredients, you can’t go wrong!

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until smooth.
5. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

4-Ingredient Creamy Tomato Pasta

A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This creamy tomato pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the cherry tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined with the tomato sauce.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the creamy tomato sauce until the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

4-Ingredient No-Bake Cheesecake

Need a dessert that’s fast, easy, and indulgent? This no-bake cheesecake is the perfect solution! With just four ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a creamy, dreamy treat in no time.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
2. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and mix until combined.
4. Fold in the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Cooking Time: None! This no-bake cheesecake is ready to serve straight from the fridge.

4-Ingredient Sausage and Potato Bake

A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This easy recipe combines juicy sausage, tender potatoes, and flavorful cheese for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and milk. Toss until the potatoes are well coated.
3. In a separate skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato mixture in an even layer. Top with cooked sausage, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Repeat the layers: potatoes, sausage, and cheese.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes

4-Ingredient Lemon Garlic Shrimp

This recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With only 4 ingredients, you can’t go wrong!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Pour in the lemon juice and stir to combine with the garlic.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the lemon-garlic sauce.
8. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

4-Ingredient Spinach Artichoke Dip

Add a delicious twist to your next gathering with this easy-to-make spinach artichoke dip that’s perfect for parties, game days, or movie nights.

Ingredients:
• 1 (14.5 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, and mayonnaise.
3. Mix all ingredients together until well combined and smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

4-Ingredient Cheddar Biscuits

This classic recipe requires only four ingredients and yields a batch of buttery, cheesy biscuits that are perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.

4-Ingredient Taco Soup

This 4-Ingredient Taco Soup recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. With just four ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a warm and comforting bowl of goodness in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet (2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
– 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the canned diced tomatoes, black beans, and taco seasoning.
2. Stir until the seasoning is well combined and the mixture is heated through.
3. Add in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Enjoy your delicious and easy 4-Ingredient Taco Soup!

4-Ingredient Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Need a pick-me-up? This 4-ingredient smoothie is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, featuring strawberries and bananas as the star ingredients. Whip up this refreshing treat in just a few minutes!

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the bananas, strawberries, and vanilla yogurt.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)

4-Ingredient Baked Parmesan Zucchini

Looking for a tasty and healthy side dish that’s easy to make? Look no further! This 4-Ingredient Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe is a great option. With just four ingredients, you can create a flavorful and crispy zucchini dish perfect for any meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Place the zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchinis and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

4-Ingredient Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

This classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a match made in heaven, and with just four ingredients, you can whip up a batch of creamy fudge in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
– 1 can (14 oz/397g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter until smooth.
4. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Cut into squares and serve.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (melting the chocolate) + chilling time (at least 2 hours)

4-Ingredient Pesto Chicken Skewers

Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these easy and flavorful 4-Ingredient Pesto Chicken Skewers. With just four ingredients, you can impress your friends and family without breaking a sweat.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup pesto
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto and olive oil. Add the chicken pieces and toss until coated.
3. Thread the chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time

– Total: 12-14 minutes
– Prep: 5 minutes
– Cook: 7-9 minutes

4-Ingredient Sweet and Spicy Nuts

This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors to create a delicious and addictive snack. With just four ingredients, you can quickly whip up a batch of nuts that are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans, etc.)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the mixed nuts, brown sugar, and honey until well combined.
3. Sprinkle the cayenne pepper over the nut mixture and stir until coated evenly.
4. Spread the nut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the nuts are lightly toasted and fragrant.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

4-Ingredient Caprese Stuffed Avocados

Elevate your avocado game with this fresh and flavorful take on the classic Caprese salad. With just four ingredients, you can create a show-stopping appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup creamy mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)

Instructions:

1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the avocado flesh out of each half to create a cavity for filling.
3. Arrange the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella slices inside the avocado cavities.
4. Top with chopped basil leaves.
5. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep work.

Summary

Discover the simplicity and versatility of cooking with just 4 ingredients! This collection of easy recipes is perfect for beginners who want to get cooking without worrying about complicated ingredient lists. From sweet treats like peanut butter cookies and chocolate mug cake, to savory dishes like garlic parmesan chicken and slow cooker BBQ pulled pork, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe requires only 4 ingredients or less! Get started with these quick and delicious recipes that will have you cooking up a storm in no time.