12 Pantry Meals That Save My Weeknights When I Have Nothing Planned

I like to make weeknight dinners work with what I have on hand, especially if my plans are coming together last-minute. So I always keep certain staples on hand, like canned tomatoes, beans, and rice. I for sure keep bread around. In the fridge I’ve got eggs, cheese, tortillas, and at least a few miscellaneous vegetables, and there are always onions and fresh garlic in the kitchen.

So what can I make with these staples? Quite a bit, it turns out. I can make pasta dishes, quesadillas, omelets, sandwiches, and even an easy casserole.

I’m sure my pantry differs from yours, but I hope this collection inspires you to add some new quick and tasty meals to your repertoire, especially for those times when you have nothing planned.