Today, I’m focusing on seniors who live alone! Yes, sadly so many elderly people do have to cope on their own. Even if they have families, they certainly don’t visit everyday or even every weekend.
That means you’re often cooking meals for one – a challenge that can often feel like a lonely or overwhelming task.
Without family around to share meals with, the idea of preparing food for one might feel like a chore rather than a joy.
But, it doesn’t have to be that way! With the right recipes, meals can be easy, nutritious, and enjoyable.
Read on for my 23 delicious dishes for seniors who live alone. I’ve searched the internet for tried and tested recipes that are interesting, tasty, budget-friendly, quick to make, and can be enjoyed alone!
1. Easy One-Pan Chicken and Veggies
This is my ultimate hassle-free dish for anyone who loves a home-cooked meal without the mess.
Roasting a chicken breast alongside vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and broccoli gives you a balanced plate with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins – no fuss, no cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, broccoli)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your choice of herbs (thyme, rosemary)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss vegetables in olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
2. Spaghetti with Zucchini For One
This spaghetti with zucchini recipe is perfect for a night when you want to treat yourself to something comforting and delicious.
It’s also a great way to get your daily dose of nutrients from vegetables!
What I love about this recipe – we’re not deep frying the zucchini. Instead, thinly sliced zucchini are pan fried in just 1 tablespoon of olive oil. No need for cups of oil or paper towels for draining. Easy!
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Now, here’s a classic, that works any day of the week!
The grilled cheese sandwich is made in a nonstick pan with buttered bread and American Cheddar for a classic hot sandwich.
Who can resist toasted buttered bread, melty cheese, and seasoning of your choice? For other delicious options, you can use Gruyere, Brie, Fontina, Gouda, Pepper Jack, and Havarti.
4. Small Batch Banana Muffins
This Banana Muffin recipe is perfect when you want a homemade treat without leftovers.
Made with just two bananas and a few simple ingredients, these moist, flavorful muffins bake in just 20 minutes.
Easy to make and great for a quick snack or small household, they’re a delicious way to use up ripe bananas.
5. Baked Salmon with Rice
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is a heart-healthy option that pairs beautifully with brown rice and a side of vegetables. It’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for a fuss-free, nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 salmon fillet
- 1/2 cup cooked rice (brown or white)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Drizzle salmon with olive oil and lemon juice, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve with rice and your choice of veggies.
6. Breakfast Bagel Sandwich
Don’t rush out without eating breakfast! This simple breakfast bagel takes only 10 minutes to make. It’s packed with protein to keep you satisfied and you can easily double or triple the recipe for meal prep.
Imagine – a warm, toasty bagel loaded with eggs, cheese, and your choice of ham or bacon. Make it now!
7. Ground Turkey Tacos For One
Are you looking for a quick, flavorful, and light meal? These single serving ground turkey tacos are ready in under 20 minutes.
Think – seasoned turkey, sautéed vegetables, and a warm tortilla! It’s so easy to make and perfect for a summer night when you don’t want a heavy meal.
You can pair them with a side of creamy guacamole, rich queso, and a refreshing margarita!
8. Mac ‘n’ Cheese For One
Who can resist a classic baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese?
But, you don’t want to end up with a huge bowl that feeds you for a week.
This awesome recipe makes Mac ‘n’ Cheese for one! It’s a creamy, lush, comforting dish of tender pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce. Serve with crusty bread and a glass of wine.
9. Tomato and Pea Pasta Bake
A Tomato and Pea Pasta Bake is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender pasta coated in a savory tomato sauce, mixed with sweet peas, and topped with melted cheese.
It’s not baked, but rather finished under the grill, a fast, easy, and cheaper method of getting the golden top and crispy bits that make a pasta bake so enjoyable.
10. Quick Stir-Fry with Tofu and Vegetables
I find that tofu is such a versatile option for a quick meal!
For those wanting a more plant-based meal, a stir-fry is an easy and versatile option. Tofu is packed with protein, and you can load it up with colorful veggies for a deliciously healthy meal in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Directions:
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet, add tofu, and cook until golden brown on all sides.
- Add mixed veggies and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce and cook for an additional minute before serving warm.
11. Twist on Shepherds Pie
This carrot, parsnip, and goat cheese shepherd’s pie is a unique and delicious twist on the traditional pie, with a rich, creamy topping that perfectly complements the savory filling.
Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or warm crusty bread.
12. Healthy Avocado Toast
Avocado toast has become a breakfast favorite, and for good reason! Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a simple and satisfying meal. Top with a poached egg or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flavor and protein.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 slice whole-grain toast
- Salt, pepper, and optional toppings (egg, chili flakes, or cheese)
Directions:
- Toast the bread to your liking.
- Mash the avocado with salt and pepper.
- Spread on the toast and add your choice of toppings. Enjoy immediately.
13. Sicilian Orange Salad
I don’t enjoy cooking on a hot day, so this Sicilian Orange Salad is a perfect dish that’s fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor.
Combining juicy oranges, crisp fennel, and tangy red onions with a hint of olives, this salad is simple yet delicious.
It’s easy to make and adds a refreshing touch to any meal. Take yours onto the patio and enjoy it with a good book and a glass of sparkling water!
14. Veggie-Packed Omelet
A warm, fluffy omelet is the perfect solution for cooking for one—quick, customizable, and nutritious. Add any leftover vegetables or your favorite fillings for a meal that’s high in protein and ready in just 10 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup diced veggies (spinach, bell peppers, onions)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Beat the eggs, pour them into the pan, and swirl to coat the bottom.
- Add vegetables to one half of the omelet and season with salt and pepper.
- Once set, fold and serve immediately.
15. Small Smoked Salmon Platter
When I feel like spoiling the family (or just myself!) I prepare this tempting smoked salmon platter. It’s perfect for one, or you can share if you dare!
There’s no cooking and you can swap in your fave ingredients to mix it up from time to time. It’s also light, but filling, perfect for a summer day lunch.
For the classic dish you need – cream cheese, rye bread, smoked salmon, tomatoes, olives, capers, radishes, and cucumbers. But, as I said, you can mix it up! How about adding avocado slices, fresh dill, red onion, arugula, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness?
16. Chocolate Chip Cookie
Do you have a sweet tooth?
I often crave something chocolaty and decadent and here’s the perfect recipe to make one giant chocolate chip cookie to be enjoyed alone.
It’s golden brown on the outside and perfectly underbaked on the inside for a soft, gooey weekend treat!
17. Easy Chicken Pot Pie
Pot pies are warm, comforting, and filling!
This easy chicken pot pie for one is made with rotisserie chicken and frozen vegetables under a flaky biscuit crust.
From One Girl One Kitchen – Individual chicken pot pies are such a love letter to yourself, and you deserve it!
18. Simple Lentil Soup
Nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade lentil soup on a chilly day. Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making this soup filling and easy on the digestive system—ideal for seniors who want something cozy and nourishing.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried lentils
- 1/4 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a pot, then sauté the onions and carrots for 5 minutes.
- Add lentils and broth, bringing to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve warm.
19. Brunswick Stew
Brunswick Stew is a comforting Southern dish, perfect for when you want a warm, filling meal without leftovers.
This single serving recipe features tender chicken, sausage, and vegetables, offering a savory flavor that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
I LUV the mix of smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet notes! Give it a try on a cold winter’s evening!
20. Pork Tenderloin
Tenderloin is just that – tender and scrumptious!
This small pork tenderloin recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Seasoned to perfection and roasted in a cast iron skillet, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it the ideal meal for one.
Joanie, chef and author of The Ultimate Cooking for One Cookbook, has the perfect recipe for us to follow.
21. BBQ Shrimp
Here’s another fab recipe from Joanie, One Dish Kitchen!
Do you fancy a seafood dish, but don’t want to sit alone in a fancy restaurant? Make one at home and enjoy the comfort of your own space!
Imagine – Plump, juicy shrimp simmered in a buttery, spiced Worcestershire sauce, creating a rich and delicious dish. And, no grill or large pot is needed, just a skillet and 20 minutes.
22. Smash Burger
Are you craving a burger? Don’t waste money on greasy take-outs when you can make your own delicious burgers at home.
Cooking doesn’t get better than following a Jamie Oliver recipe, so get out the ingredients and get started!
It has a great tangy finish with Cajun seasoning and American mustard.
23. Polish Noodles
Last but not least, noodles always come to the rescue for a quick and tasty meal.
This simple recipe for pasta with cottage cheese comes from Poland. It’s called “cottage cheese and noodles” or “lazy man pierogies.”
It’s a great comfort food and can be made with any type of noodle.
Hello There!
Hi! My name is Madlyn and I’m a modern tech-savvy Grandma with a passion for all-things-appliances.
If it has an On-Off switch, I want it! I have a job, a home, a husband, kids, grand kids, and pets – the whole nine yards. And, I have kitchen appliances …
My Appliance Journey
Over the years, my hubby and I have spent a fortune on appliances ranging from baby bottle warmers to large fancy fridges for a house full of growing teens.
Some were value for money and lasted for years, while others packed up in less than a month.
Over the years I have gained vast experience with appliances of all types and would love to share my insights with others.
Hopefully this will help you make informed decisions and not waste unnecessary time and your hard-earned money.
What I Do
I’ll be writing about must-have kitchen appliances like kettles, toasters, fridges and washing machines.
I’ll also chat about not-so-must-have kitchen appliances like coffee makers.
Okay! I get it – for coffee addicts like myself, a coffee maker is most definitely a must, and is certainly more important than a toaster.
Being familiar with the iconic brands, I will also give you comparisons, some history (for history lovers) and other insights that I have gained over the years spent in the kitchen.
Who Is This Website For?
Whether you are a single professional, a busy working Mom, a new home owner, or a retiree, I will keep you up to date with the perfect kitchen appliances and kitchen tips for your needs.
Being an elder person myself, I will also offer kitchen appliance tips, kitchen safety tips, cooking tips, and healthy eating tips for the elderly.