When I’m looking to skip a grocery run or just clear out what I have, I turn to meals made entirely from pantry staples. It’s surprising how many simple, satisfying dishes you can pull together without fresh ingredients.
Eating from the pantry saves time, reduces waste, and keeps dinner easy without sacrificing flavor. Over time, I’ve found a handful of go-to recipes that help me use up what’s on hand without any fuss.
Chickpea and tomato curry
When I’m pulling from the pantry, chickpea and tomato curry is my go-to. It’s super simple—mostly canned chickpeas, tomatoes, and some spices. I like that everything cooks in one pot, saving time and cleanup.
I usually add a bit of coconut milk or just water to keep it creamy. Fresh onion and cilantro on top brighten it up when I have them on hand. It’s filling, tasty, and works great for quick weeknight dinners. You can find a straightforward recipe like this here for more details.
Pasta with canned mushroom sauce
When I’m digging through the pantry, pasta with canned mushroom sauce is one of my go-to meals. It’s simple to make and uses ingredients I usually have on hand.
I start by sautéing garlic and onions, then add the canned mushrooms along with some cream or broth for a quick sauce. Toss in cooked pasta, and it’s ready to eat.
This dish feels comforting without needing fresh veggies or special ingredients. If I want to add a little extra, I might sprinkle some Parmesan or fresh herbs on top. For easy recipes like this, I like checking out ideas for canned cream of mushroom pasta recipes.
Black bean chili with canned corn
When I’m digging through the pantry, black bean chili with canned corn is always a go-to. It’s simple, filling, and uses ingredients I almost always have on hand. A can of black beans and some canned corn are the main stars.
I usually add a can of diced tomatoes or salsa for a bit of tang and spice. It comes together fast, and the flavors get better the longer it simmers. This chili feels hearty without any fuss, making it perfect for a quick, no-brainer meal.
If you want to try it, this black bean and corn chili recipe is a great place to start.
Lentil stew with dried herbs
When I’m digging through my pantry, lentil stew with dried herbs is a go-to. It’s simple to throw together using dried lentils, whatever veggies I have on hand, and a mix of dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
This stew simmers slowly, letting the lentils soak up the flavors. The dried herbs add just the right touch of earthiness without any fuss.
I love that this meal feels hearty and comforting, yet it’s all made from pantry staples. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up and fills you up without much prep. For a sturdier recipe, you can check out this easy lentil stew that nails the simple, cozy vibe.
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are my go-to when I’m eating from the pantry. They’re quick, simple, and require just a few staples I always have on hand.
I like to mix things up by trying different breads or swapping jam for fresh berries when I can. Sometimes, I even grill the sandwich for a warm twist. It’s an easy classic that never gets old and keeps me fueled without much effort.
For some extra ideas, there are plenty of creative takes on this combo that go beyond the usual sandwich if I’m in the mood to change it up. You can check out some recipes that raise the bar on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches here.
Tuna salad with canned beans
When I’m eating from the pantry, tuna salad with canned beans is a go-to. It’s super easy to throw together since I usually have canned tuna and beans on hand.
I like to mix cannellini or white beans with tuna, a little olive oil, lemon juice, and some fresh herbs if I have them. Sometimes, I add olives or capers for a little extra flavor.
It’s ready in about 10 minutes and makes a satisfying lunch or light dinner. This simple combo always feels fresh without much effort. You can find a solid tuna white bean salad recipe that’s easy to follow and adaptable.
Rice and beans with salsa
Rice and beans with salsa is my go-to when I want something easy and filling. I usually use whatever beans I have on hand and cook them with rice for a simple base. Adding salsa brightens the dish and saves me time because it packs in flavor without extra prep.
Sometimes, I toss in some corn or spices to switch things up. It’s a colorful, budget-friendly meal that feels a little festive, even when I’m just eating from the pantry. If you want a quick recipe that’s both tasty and convenient, this combo is hard to beat. Check out this Salsa Rice and Beans recipe for some easy ideas.
Canned chicken quesadillas
When I’m digging through my pantry and find a can of chicken, quesadillas are my go-to. They come together super fast and don’t need a lot of ingredients. I usually mix the canned chicken with some cheese and salsa, then slap it between two tortillas.
Cooking it in a skillet until it’s golden and melty makes for a simple, satisfying meal. It’s perfect for those nights when I want something easy without a grocery run. If you want to try, check out some quick canned chicken quesadilla recipes for ideas to mix it up.
Tomato and white bean soup
Tomato and white bean soup is one of my go-to meals when I’m digging through the pantry. It’s simple, requires just a few staples like canned tomatoes, white beans, and some dried herbs. I love how creamy and hearty it feels without needing any fancy ingredients. A little garlic and broth go a long way to deepen the flavor.
Sometimes I throw in fresh spinach or top it with grated Parmesan if I have some handy. It’s easy, filling, and perfect for when I want something cozy without much fuss. You can find a solid recipe for this kind of soup at Nospoonnecessary.com.
Spaghetti aglio e olio
This is my go-to when I want something quick but tasty. It’s basically just spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and a bit of chili flakes. I usually add some parsley if I have it, but it’s not a must.
The best part is that I almost always have these ingredients in my pantry and fridge. Cooking it takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and it feels like a cozy, simple meal without any fuss. If you want to see some variations or get inspired, check out these easy spaghetti aglio e olio recipes.
