7 Easy Recipes Using Pantry Staples

Some days you come home and just can't muster the energy to cook anything. Even popping a frozen dinner in the microwave seems like too much effort. Or, worse, you open the fridge to discover the leftovers you were planning on eating have mysteriously disappeared (as your partner ashamedly wipes away crumbs from their face). Sometimes having a simple recipe that doesn't require a run to the grocery store can be a life saver (even a relationship saver).

We've put together a list of our seven favorite easy recipes, from chicken noodle soup to grilled cheese to a delicious chocolate cake that's ready in minutes. These each require only a few pantry staples, and the ingredients are a breeze to substitute. These are great for quick weeknight dinners, no-fuss school lunches, or days when you're only in the mood to set it and forget it.

Skillet Chicken with Pepper & Onion Relish

This skillet chicken recipe is the perfect quick-fix meal for busy nights. It requires just three pantry staples, including Pepper & Onion Relish, and some fresh spinach. And the best part? There's only one pot to clean.

Baked Apples with Homemade Granola

Create a delectable dessert or jazz up your breakfast in just a few minutes with homemade granola. These baked apples are great because they take only a few minutes to prepare. The homemade granola center is easy to make, or you can use a mix you already have at home. It's no big whoop. Bake them for a family breakfast or after-school snack for the kids, or serve them with vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert. That gets our vote.

Bacon Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Everyone loves a good grilled cheese, but this recipe puts a fun twist on America's most beloved sandwich. While the bacon adds crispiness to every bite (and a smile to your face), the Pepper & Onion Relish brings a sweet and savory onion flavor that pairs great with the cheddar cheese. This version is so dang good you may have to make an extra sandwich for yourself.

Chicken Noodle Soup

There's nothing more comforting than chicken noodle soup. Trust us. We searched everywhere for something more comforting, but we always found ourselves coming right back to this classic dish. Chicken, a few vegetables, and Chicken Noodle Soup Mix all come together in an instant cooker for a soup with “from scratch" flavor that the whole family will love. Even grandma will approve.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

The best things about these chicken tacos? No, they don't get served by a robot. They don't need any special seasonings, and you can cook them as fast or as slow as you want. Black Bean and Corn Salsa flavors the chicken as they cook together, and a homemade citrus avocado salsa topping adds a creamy, tangy sweetness. Set it to cook all day until dinnertime, or cook it on high for three to four hours starting in the morning to be ready in time for lunch.

Pan-Fried Pork Chops

These crispy pork chops are a comfort meal with a smoky and fruity twist. You don't need a grill or deep fryer to make them, just a sturdy skillet and some oil. Mashed potatoes and steamed veggies round out the plate, and the Cherry Ancho Chili Chutney brings everything together by adding a little spice and a fruity zing. The pork chops also work great sliced thin and put on a sandwich. Add the chutney and your favorite condiments, and you have lunch on the go. Just don't forget the bread.

Chocolate Mug Cake

This is perfect for when you're craving chocolate cake but you don't have the time or the know-how to make one. These chocolate mug cakes take just a few baking staples, plus hot cocoa mix, and "bake" in the microwave in just one minute. Everyone has a minute to spare, right? This mug cake gets an extra level of sweetness from the Harry & David Chocolate Truffles that get mixed right into the batter. Serve this dessert for a spontaneous date night in or treat the whole family after dinner. Or make it while you're having "me time." You deserve