If your kitchen is tiny, your stove is unreliable, or you just want to avoid heating up your whole place, these meals you can cook in a toaster oven are about to become your new go-tos. With minimal mess and quick cook times, the toaster oven is not just for reheating, it’s a seriously underrated tool for making real food with ease.
Related: Healthy Mug Meals You can Make in the Microwave
7. Single-Serve Lasagna
Layer cooked noodles, ricotta, marinara, and mozzarella in a small oven-safe dish or ramekin, and bake until bubbly. No need for a giant pan, this individual portion gives you all the cozy lasagna vibes with way less cleanup. These kinds of meals you can cook in a toaster oven are perfect when you’re low on time but craving something hearty.
Check out: Quick Skillet Desserts You Won’t Believe Are This Simple
6. Toasted Chickpea Melts
If you want something savory and high-protein, smash chickpeas with a little mayo or hummus, mustard, lemon juice, and a variety of spices. Scoop it onto a slice of bread, top with cheese, and then bake until golden. It’s like a tuna melt, but plant-based, and totally toaster-oven friendly.
Also read: Best Fast Food Value Menu Items Perfect for Affordable Meals
5. Loaded Sweet Potato Boats
Bake a sweet potato in the toaster oven until soft, then slice it open and stuff it with black beans, salsa, cheese, or even leftover chili. Pop it back in for a few minutes to melt everything together. The toppings are endlessly customizable. This is one of those meals you can cook in a toaster oven that feels like comfort food but is secretly packed with nutrients.
Related: Easy Rice Cooker Recipes
4. Baked Salmon with Veggies
You can totally roast salmon in a toaster oven. Place a small filet on foil with sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle with lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Fold the foil into a packet and bake until the fish is flaky and the veggies are tender. You have got yourself a full, healthy meal with no stovetop required.
Check out: Best Target Pantry Essentials for Easy Homemade Lunches
3. Pita Bread Pizzas
For nights when you are craving pizza but don’t want to deal with dough, pita bread makes the perfect shortcut. Spread tomato sauce on a whole pita, top with mozzarella and whatever veggies or protein you have, then bake until it is crispy. It is one of the simplest meals you can cook in a toaster oven.
Also read: Instant Ramen Upgrades That Actually Taste Good
2. Mini Veggie Frittata
Skip the stovetop scramble and go for a toaster oven frittata. Whisk eggs with chopped veggies, a splash of milk, and cheese, then pour into a greased ramekin or small oven-safe dish. Bake until set and golden. It’s an easy breakfast-for-dinner option that’s customizable and protein-packed.
Related: Best On the Go Snacks for People with Busy Schedules
1. Sheet Pan Nachos
Yes, you can make nachos in a toaster oven, and they are dangerously good. Just layer tortilla chips with black beans, shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, and any toppings you love on a small baking tray. Pop it in until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finish with sour cream, salsa, or avocado. It is fast, filling, and perfect for a solo dinner or a last minute movie-night snack.
Check out: Best Grocery Store Peanut Butter Brands for Smooth and Crunchy Fans
Explore More:Recipes