Are you a busy cook looking for ways to simplify your meal prep without sacrificing flavor? Look no further! Semi-homemade cooking is all about combining store-bought ingredients with fresh, easy-to-make elements to create delicious meals that are perfect for any night of the week. In this article, we’ll share 18 easy semi-homemade recipes that will become staples in your kitchen.
From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and lasagna, to international-inspired dishes like beef tacos and shrimp scampi, these recipes use a mix of store-bought shortcuts and fresh ingredients to make mealtime a breeze. And the best part? They’re all quick, easy, and budget-friendly!
In this article, we’ll dive into each recipe in detail, sharing tips and tricks for making the most of your time in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy professional, a stay-at-home parent, or just someone who loves to cook, these semi-homemade recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Semi-Homemade Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A creamy and comforting pasta dish that combines the flavors of chicken, fettuccine, and parmesan cheese. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and garlic powder.
3. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the cooked fettuccine, peas and carrots to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Semi-Homemade Pizza with Store-Bought Dough
Get a delicious pizza on the table in no time using store-bought dough as your base! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought pizza dough (homestyle or rising crust work well)
– 1 cup of pizza sauce
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives)
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the store-bought dough to your desired thickness and place on a baking sheet.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add your favorite toppings.
6. Drizzle olive oil around the crust.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Semi-Homemade Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
In just a few minutes, you can have a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry on the table using store-bought sauce and a few simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal after a long day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup store-bought stir-fry sauce (such as soy-based or oyster-based)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and broccoli to the pan, cooking until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the pan and pour in the stir-fry sauce. Stir until everything is coated.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Semi-Homemade Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your macaroni cravings with this simple recipe that combines store-bought pasta sauce with homemade goodness. This semi-homemade twist saves time without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup store-bought pasta sauce (homestyle or marinara)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain.
3. In a large pot, combine milk, butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce; stir until well combined.
5. Pour in pasta sauce and stir until heated through.
6. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Semi-Homemade Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Warm up with this creamy and indulgent soup that combines the comfort of baked potatoes with a rich and flavorful broth. This semi-homemade recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups leftover mashed baked potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Chopped scallions and crumbled bacon for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add mashed potatoes and stir until smooth. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Stir in shredded cheese until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with sour cream, scallions, and crumbled bacon (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Semi-Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Transform your weeknight dinner into a comforting classic with this simple semi-homemade chicken pot pie recipe. With just a few store-bought shortcuts and some basic prep, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup store-bought puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed vegetables, and flour.
3. Add melted butter and mix until well combined.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spoon the chicken mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Brush edges with milk; fold other half of pastry over filling and press edges to seal.
7. Place pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Semi-Homemade Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful dip that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick indulgence. With its rich spinach and artichoke filling, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Semi-Homemade Beef Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying meal with this quick semi-homemade beef taco recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings, these tacos are a cinch to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flavors are absorbed.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas, followed by diced tomatoes and shredded cheese.
5. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Semi-Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies with Pre-Made Dough
Take a shortcut to fresh-baked cookies with this easy recipe using pre-made dough! With just a few extra ingredients, you’ll have a batch of chewy and chocolatey treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package pre-made chocolate chip cookie dough
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (additional)
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Open the package of pre-made dough and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
3. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Place a few additional chocolate chips on top of each cookie, if desired.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Easy Semi-Homemade Lasagna with No-Boil Noodles
Easy Semi-Homemade Lasagna with No-Boil Noodles
This recipe offers a convenient twist on traditional lasagna, using no-boil noodles and store-bought sauce to simplify the cooking process. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 12 no-boil lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb ground beef, cooked and drained (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the no-boil lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 cooked noodles on top.
5. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. If using ground beef, sprinkle it on top.
6. Repeat steps 4-5, ending with a layer of noodles and marinara sauce on top.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Semi-Homemade BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to elevate your pulled pork game with this semi-homemade recipe that combines store-bought convenience with homemade flavor. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1 bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid.
3. Pour 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce over the pork, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Cover the pot and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and mix in an additional 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Assemble sandwiches by spooning the pulled pork onto the buns, topping with coleslaw and pickle slices (if using).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Simple Semi-Homemade Pancakes with Mix
Start your day off right with a delicious and quick pancake recipe using store-bought mix. This semi-homemade approach combines the convenience of mix with the added flavor and texture of fresh ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pancake mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Fresh fruit or syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pancake mix, milk, and egg until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with fresh fruit, syrup, or your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Semi-Homemade Caesar Salad with Pre-Washed Greens
Semi-Homemade Caesar Salad with Pre-Washed Greens
Experience the classic flavors of a traditional Caesar salad without the hassle of washing and drying fresh greens. This semi-homemade recipe uses pre-washed greens to save time, while still delivering a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups pre-washed romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the pre-washed greens.
2. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the greens and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle the croutons and Parmesan cheese over the salad.
4. Top with chopped parsley for garnish.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quick Semi-Homemade Shrimp Scampi
Get ready to enjoy a delicious and flavorful shrimp scampi dish with minimal effort! This recipe uses pre-cooked shrimp and jarred garlic butter sauce to make it quick and easy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pre-cooked shrimp
– 2 tablespoons jarred garlic butter sauce
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the pre-cooked shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic butter sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until reduced slightly.
5. Add the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Semi-Homemade Banana Bread with Cake Mix
Looking to whip up a delicious banana bread without much fuss? This semi-homemade recipe is the perfect solution! By combining ripe bananas, cake mix, and a few extra ingredients, you’ll create a moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15.25 oz) package of yellow cake mix
– 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter or oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins to suit your taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cake mix, sugar, melted butter or oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in mashed bananas and any optional mix-ins.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Easy Semi-Homemade Shepherd’s Pie
Looking for a comforting and easy meal? This semi-homemade shepherd’s pie recipe is the perfect solution! With only a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
– 1 cup store-bought mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine frozen mixed vegetables and cooked ground beef. Heat until the vegetables are thawed and heated through.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Spread store-bought mashed potatoes over the top of the vegetable mixture.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Semi-Homemade Stuffed Peppers with Pre-Cooked Rice
Elevate your meal game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines pre-cooked rice, savory seasonings, and colorful bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup pre-cooked white rice
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or veggies for alternative options)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Stir in pre-cooked rice and shredded cheese until well combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture and place them in a baking dish.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Simple Semi-Homemade Blueberry Muffins with Mix
Elevate your morning routine with these simple yet delicious semi-homemade blueberry muffins, using a store-bought mix as a shortcut.
Ingredients:
– 1 box of blueberry muffin mix (15-18 oz)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: granulated sugar for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the box mix, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Gently fold in blueberries.
4. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to simplify your cooking routine with these 18 easy semi-homemade recipes perfect for busy cooks! From pasta dishes like Semi-Homemade Chicken Alfredo Pasta and Easy Semi-Homemade Mac and Cheese, to comfort foods like Loaded Baked Potato Soup and Shepherd’s Pie, there’s something for everyone. Plus, quick fixes like Quick Semi-Homemade Pizza with Store-Bought Dough and Simple Semi-Homemade Pancakes with Mix make mealtime a breeze. With pre-made ingredients and minimal prep time, these recipes will become your new go-to’s.
