Lazy Life Hacks
There’s nothing more comforting than a hot, ready-to-eat meal when life is hectic. These easy foods are hearty and homemade, including soups and sandwiches to desserts. So, for the laziest hacks, here are 20 meals that are practically ready-made and super cozy to sink into.
1. Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak or meatloaf frozen dinners are a classic, comforting option. You'll get a hearty helping of seasoned ground beef, formed into a patty or loaf. It's served with a generous portion of savory gravy and a side of mashed potatoes or vegetables.
2. Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a popular dish that consists of chicken, noodles, and broth. It is often served with vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions. It can be a quick and easy meal for lunch or dinner and is often used as comfort food.
3. Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie, frozen or microwavable, is a warm, filling meal that features tender chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce. It's enveloped in a flaky, golden crust, capturing the essence of homemade comfort food. Convenient and quick, it's perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner in minutes.
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4. Kraft Mac and Cheese
Kraft Mac and Cheese in a box is a timeless dish of tender noodles in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Ready in minutes, it's a warm, gooey comfort food for children and adults alike. Ideal for a fast lunch or a cozy dinner, it's a childhood classic of easy comfort food.
5. Lasagna
Frozen lasagna is a ready-to-heat meal consisting of layers of pasta, tomato sauce, meat or vegetable filling, and cheese. It is baked in an oven or microwave until hot, resulting in a dish that is reminiscent of homemade lasagna but with a much shorter preparation time. Frozen lasagna is a popular option for a convenient and comforting dinner.
6. Tomato Soup
Creamy tomato soup or bisques from a can provide a satisfying and easy meal. With a velvety texture and robust taste, these soups are blended with tomatoes or vegetables, herbs, and spices for a warm and delicious comfort food. They can be easily paired with a grilled cheese or enjoyed solo and are a timeless classic that requires minimal effort.
7. Ramen Noodles
A ramen or instant noodle cup is a type of ready-to-eat noodle cup. Ramen cups are precooked noodles in broth, often with added dehydrated vegetables and seasoning packets. They are prepared quickly and are a portable cup of warm comfort.
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8. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potato cups are a quick and easy side dish that you can whip up in no time. They’re creamy, buttery, and comforting, and go well with so many other dishes. Serve them alongside meat or gravy, or as a delicious side dish for veggies.
9. Waffles
Frozen waffles are a fast and comforting breakfast food. Toasted in minutes, they have a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy center. They can be topped with syrup, fruit, or butter, and are a customizable, cozy meal.
10. Instant Oatmeal
Instant oatmeal is a cooked breakfast food that is very quick and easy to make. It takes less than five minutes to prepare and comes out soft and hearty. Instant oatmeal is also typically flavored with cinnamon, fruit, or maple for a nice, warm breakfast that is comforting and delicious.
11. Pudding Cups
Chocolate pudding cups are a delicious and portable dessert option that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. They are creamy, smooth, and come in a variety of flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, and butterscotch. Pudding cups are also pre-portioned and easy to grab on the go, making them a great option for a quick snack or dessert.
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12. Popcorn
Popcorn is a comforting snack. It is usually eaten hot, making it a nice treat for movie nights and when relaxing at home. The fluffy snack is light and airy, and it is easy to enjoy plain, buttered, or with your favorite flavorings. It's a versatile and easy-to-make snack that has been around for generations.
13. Chicken Nuggets
Frozen chicken nuggets are crispy breaded treats with soft, moist chicken inside. They're a comforting and familiar treat that is easy to eat in minutes and can be used for a meal or as a snack. Serve the nuggets with your favorite sauce and let people dip them as they go for a finger-licking good meal.
14. Minestrone Soup
A can of minestrone soup is a filling and satisfying meal. Full of vegetables, beans, pasta, and savory tomato broth, it is a great example of a canned soup that can replace a regular meal. Easy to warm up and serve, a can of minestrone soup has all the taste of a good Italian-style soup without having to spend hours cooking it.
15. Jell-O
Jell-O is a popular and convenient dessert that is easy to make and enjoy. It comes in many different flavors and colors, and has a gelatinous, jiggly texture. It is light, sweet, and refreshing, and can be eaten plain or in layered dishes. Jell-O is ideal for a snack, a treat, or a nostalgic dessert.
16. Tuna and Crackers
Tuna and crackers are a classic snack or light meal that is easy to make and super satisfying. Tuna is a flaky, savory, protein-packed filling that’s hard to beat. Crackers offer a bit of crunch, salt, and textural contrast for a well-rounded bite. All in all, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a little comfort food, whether at home or on the go.
17. Croissants
Croissants are buttery, flaky pastries that are comforting with every bite. The light, airy layers of the pastry make them the perfect morning treat, snack, or satisfying bite to enjoy with coffee or tea. Croissants can be simple or filled with chocolate, almond, or ham and cheese, but always taste indulgent.
18. Pancakes
Frozen pancake trays provide a convenient and satisfying breakfast choice. In just minutes, they can be heated up to enjoy soft, fluffy pancakes. They're ideal for busy mornings when you want a warm, comforting meal without the fuss of making batter or cooking pancakes on the stovetop.
19. Cheese Platters
Cheese platters are a great way to indulge in your favorite cheeses without having to cook or prepare anything. They often come with a variety of flavors and textures, from creamy brie to sharp cheddar, and can be paired with crackers, fruits, or nuts. Ideal for cozy nights in or easy entertaining, cheese platters are a simple and satisfying snack or treat.
20. Deli Sandwich
A deli meat sandwich is a fast-food comfort food that includes multiple layers of cured or cooked sliced meats, cheese, and bread. Ingredients such as vegetables, condiments, and spreads may also be added. A deli meat sandwich is convenient and can be consumed at home, work, or on the go.
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