19 Foolproof Recipes When Guests Knock Unexpectedly (2024)

Unexpected guests? Don't sweat it! This post is your secret key for turning a surprise visit into a delicious gathering. We've got 19 amazing recipes that are easy to whip up, no matter what you have on hand.

From quick and tasty appetizers to filling main courses, these recipes are all about using pantry staples and simple ingredients. We've got options for every taste bud, so you can throw together a crowd-pleasing meal in no time. Plus, these recipes are so easy to follow, you won't have to stress about complicated steps. So next time someone knocks unexpectedly, you can relax, knowing you've got deliciousness covered!

Bruschetta with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

EasyBruschetta with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoesfeatures homemade basil Pesto, sautéed zucchini and delicious sun-dried tomatoes. If you're looking for a very bestcrowd-pleasing appetizerfor birthday party, Thanksgiving or Christmas, you can count on thisBasil Pesto Bruschettato deliver. Easy to make and absolutely delicious! Get the recipe.

Italian Cannellini Bean Salad

This Italian Cannellini Bean Salad is healthy, flavorful, and satisfying. Made with white beans, juicy roasted bell peppers, olives, marinated red onions, and dollops of vegan cashew cheese, it's the perfect cold side dish or easy lunch. A good option for picnics, potluck, or work lunches too. Get the recipe.

Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes with Garlic and Dill

So easy and delicious, these Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes with Garlic and Dill are a comfort side dish that never disappoints. Naturally vegan and made with just 4 simple ingredients, these crushed red potatoes are great for any occasion. Get the recipe.

Bourbon ChickenRecipe

This easybourbon chickenrecipe is a classic dish that's ready in under 30 minutes and combines delicious tangy and sweet flavors. With tender, juicy chicken smothered in a savory Bourbon sauce, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a good, hearty meal. Get the recipe.

Mushroom Stroganoff

This creamy andone-pot Mushroom Stroganoff is as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. It’s the ultimate comfort dish that gets along nicely withmashed potatoes, rice,or pasta. What’s even better? It’s easy to make with everyday ingredients. Get the recipe.

Brisket Nachos

Use leftover shredded beef brisket to make these easy but insanely delicious loaded BBQ brisket nachos. They’re great as a party appetizer, dinner or addition to a game day spread and easy to customize to your topping preferences! Get the recipe.

Chicken Ragu Pasta

This simple chicken ragu pasta may be easy to make and use everyday ingredients, but there's nothing basic about its flavor. This yummy, savory, and quick-to-make dinner idea is bound to become a favorite family meal. Enjoy this homemade pasta with ground chicken in just half an hour. Get the recipe.

Pasta alla Carbonara with Peas and Bacon

This Pasta alla Carbonara with Peas and Bacon a favorite quick, easy and inexpensive comfort food that's ready in less than 30 minutes. Get the recipe.

Korean Beef and Rice

If you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, then try this Korean beef and rice! It’s the perfect combination of flavors for a meal that’s going to become a new family favorite! With a few pantry staples, you can make a delicious meal from start to finish in just 15 minutes! Get the recipe.

Stir Fry Noodles (Ready In Under 30 Minutes)

These Stir Fry Noodles are incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and the perfect recipe for busy weeknights! It features perfectly stir-fried veggies, tasty tofu, and delicious noodles coated in a simple, flavorful homemade stir-fry sauce!Get the recipe.

Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Mustard Sauce

Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Mustard Sauce is an incredibly easy one skillet dish, that is full of comforting flavors and ready in just 30 minutes. Delicious weeknight meal made simple! Get the recipe.

Homemade Pork and Bean Recipe

Craving a delicious dish that’s quick and easy to make? This Homemade Pork and Beans recipe is the one for you! With tender chunks of pork shoulder, crispy bacon, and soft navy beans, it’s a dish that's as satisfying as it looks! What’s best is that it’s ready from scratch in just 35 minutes! Get the recipe.

Easy Penne Pomodoro

ThisPenne Pomodorois a classic Italian pasta dish featuring a delicious, flavor-packed red tomato sauce with hints of basil and garlic. This easy pasta recipe is quick and easy to make, and you can have it ready at the dinner table in under 30 minutes! Get the recipe.

Easy Asian Salmon Stir Fry

Thiseasy salmon stir fry recipewill show you how easy and how delicious it can be. This Asian salmon recipe is made with kitchen staples (if you stir fry, you should have these) and the whole meal comes together in less than 30 minutes. Get the recipe.

Creamy Salmon Pasta

This Easy and Creamy Salmon Pasta features quickly seared salmon tossed in a creamy, smoky sauce along with your favorite pasta. This hearty and satisfying dish is loaded with flavor and comes together in no time. Get the recipe.

Stuffed Zucchini Boats

MakingZucchini Boatsis genuinely one of my favorite dinner recipes.Perfectly tender baked zucchini loaded with sweet sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and cheese. Get the recipe.

Gnocchi Carbonara

Whip up a comforting dinner with this Gnocchi Carbonara recipe. It combines pillowy gnocchi with a creamy, rich sauce for a truly delightful dish. Get the recipe.

Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff

This Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff is the perfect one-pot meal that'll be ready in under 30 minutes to give you a deliciously satisfying meal without having to slave away in the kitchen all day! It features chicken stroganoff, the chicken version of this incredibly popular East European dish that we've all come to know and love.Get the recipe.

CheesyTortellini Casserole

This cheap & cheesy Tortellini Casserole is a weeknight favorite done in 25 minutes with just 5 ingredients. A cheesy tortellini al forno that's packed with flavor, and a dish the whole family will love. It also heats up really well for delicious leftovers! Get the recipe.

More from Lavender & Macarons

Satisfy your sweet cravings every night with our 15 super easy 5-Ingredient Desserts. No need to stress in the kitchen – these treats are a breeze to bake! 5-Ingredient Desserts So Easy We Can Make Them Every Night.