Skillet Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter
Brown the cut sides first, briefly steam the centers, then finish with butter and lemon. This small-batch autumn side gives you tender Brussels sprouts with browned edges while leaving the oven free.

Brown the cut sides first, briefly steam the centers, then finish with butter and lemon. This small-batch autumn side gives you tender Brussels sprouts with browned edges while leaving the oven free.

Golden tofu, soft-centered eggplant and crisp-tender green peppers meet a light garlic-ginger glaze. Cook them in stages so the tofu browns and the vegetables keep their texture, then bring everything together for a meatless family supper.

Brown the mushrooms before adding the eggs for a savory frittata with a gently set center, melted cheese and a fresh scallion finish. One ovenproof skillet makes four light-meal portions, with optional bread or a crisp side alongside.

Buttery vanilla shortbread fingers get a light powdered-sugar coat, white-chocolate bandages and tiny chocolate eyes. Make the cookies ahead, then decorate them once completely cool for a Halloween dessert tray.

One simple loaf for dinner bread, meatloaf sandwiches and toast. Slice only what you need so the remaining loaf keeps better.

A budget vegetable side with tender potatoes, sweet carrots and peas, finished in butter and a little of their cooking liquid.

Dried red lentils turn creamy without soaking. Cumin, softened onion, garlic and lemon make a hearty, flavorful soup with very little spicy heat.

A reliable pot of fluffy rice that gives beans, chicken and saucy vegetables a simple base. A little butter and parsley keep it useful across several meals.

A hot oven, butter and enough room on the pan bring out the sweetness of carrots. Lemon at the end keeps them lively alongside a roast.

A tender beef meatloaf with softened onion, a moist cracker crumb mixture and a tangy tomato top. Bake once, then save slices for sandwiches.

A bubbling family pasta bake with a creamy white cheddar sauce, mustard for depth and fresh green onions. Serve with a crisp vegetable side.

Cold butter, a light hand and a hot oven give these biscuits tender layers. Make eight and plan the extras for tomorrow’s soup or breakfast.