When the clock strikes dinnertime, stress can quickly follow, especially when there’s a family to feed. After a long day of work, school, or running errands, the last thing you want is to spend hours stuck in the kitchen, whipping up an elaborate meal. What if, instead, you could conjure up a scrumptious homemade dinner for your loved ones in under 30 minutes? That’s exactly what we’ve set out to achieve in this blog post – curating 35 simple yet satisfying recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic pasta dishes to effortless roasted chicken, these mouth-watering meals are not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and satisfaction.
35 Easy Dinner Recipes for Family
Chicken Fajitas
To begin, preheat your oven to a toasty 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, combine sliced bell peppers, onions, and chicken breasts on a large baking sheet in a harmonious union. Drizzle this delightful medley with olive oil and sprinkle it with the savory essence of taco seasoning. Allow the flavors to meld together as you roast the mixture for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through to perfection.
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta
To prepare this mouth-watering dish, begin by heating up some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Next, add three to four cloves of minced garlic, a can of crushed tomatoes, and a splash of heavy cream. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the flavors meld together perfectly. Finally, add in your cooked pasta, and stir until everything is well coated. To take it to the next level, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top, allowing its nutty flavor to add an extra layer of depth to the dish.
Pasta Carbonara
As you cook the spaghetti according to the package guidelines, simultaneously heat up some pancetta or bacon with minced garlic in a pan until it’s nice and crispy. Once the pasta is cooked, combine it with the pancetta mixture and then incorporate a sauce made from whisked eggs, grated parmesan cheese, and a pinch of black pepper for added depth of flavor.
Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken
To create a delicious and refreshing salad, start by combining chopped lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and pungent red onions in a large bowl. The next step is to add some protein-rich grilled chicken and crumbly feta cheese on top. But what truly brings this salad together is the tangy dressing. Simply whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of oregano to create a flavorful and aromatic sauce that complements each ingredient perfectly.
Baked Garlic Butter Salmon
To begin, preheat your oven to a cozy 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, place the salmon fillets onto a baking sheet that’s been generously lined with parchment paper. Add some extra flavor by rubbing the fish with garlic butter and sprinkling salt and pepper to taste. Finally, pop the dish into the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking.
Beef Stir Fry with Broccoli
To prepare this dish, begin by heating a generous amount of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add sliced beef, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pan. Stir-fry these ingredients for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the beef to start browning. Next, add broccoli florets to the pan, followed by a drizzle of soy sauce. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
Easy Chicken Alfredo
As you cook your pasta according to package directions, simultaneously melt butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese in a spacious skillet over gentle heat. Once the mixture is warm, introduce cooked chicken and stir until the dish is well combined and heated through. As the pasta finishes cooking, drain it and incorporate it into the skillet with the creamy sauce, thoroughly tossing to ensure an even coating.
Tuna Melt
To elevate a humble tuna sandwich, start by combining canned tuna with a trio of flavorful ingredients: mayonnaise, mustard, and chopped red onion. Next, stir in some crunchy celery for added texture. Spread this savory mixture onto toasted bread, then top it off with sliced tomatoes and melted cheddar cheese. Finally, pop the whole thing under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
One-Pan Sausage and Vegetable Bake
To start, preheat your oven to a moderate 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, combine sausage, sliced potatoes, carrots, and green beans in a large baking dish. For added flavor, drizzle the mixture with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme to taste. Finally, place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Mushroom and Spinach Risotto
To begin, heat a generous amount of butter in a large pot over moderate heat. Once melted, add chopped mushrooms and sauté until they develop a rich, caramelized color. Next, introduce Arborio rice to the pot, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to ensure even cooking. Gradually pour in chicken broth, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid as it simmers. Finally, stir in handfuls of fresh spinach and shaved Parmesan cheese, allowing the flavors to meld together before serving.
Meatball Subs
Indulge in a comforting culinary experience by following the straightforward steps to prepare delectable meatball subs. Begin by thawing frozen meatballs according to package instructions, then place them on toasted hoagie buns. Add a rich layer of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese on top. Finally, pop the subs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
Chicken Tacos
Savor the flavors by cooking sliced chicken breasts to perfection using a grill or skillet. Then, assemble a mouthwatering wrap by placing the cooked chicken on top of tortillas, accompanied by fresh shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and melted shredded cheddar cheese. For an added layer of excitement, introduce your go-to salsa or hot sauce to give your meal an extra boost of flavor.
Shrimp Scampi
To begin, prepare the pasta according to package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat by adding butter, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Once the mixture is fragrant, introduce raw shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. After that, squeeze in some lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet, stirring to combine the flavors.
Loaded Baked Potatoes
To bring out the full flavor and texture of your potato, cook it using a microwave or oven until it’s tender to the core. Then, take a moment to appreciate its newfound softness by slicing it open. Next, add a rich touch with butter, a tangy kick from sour cream, a burst of fresh flavor from chopped scallions, a smoky depth from crumbled bacon, and finally, a velvety blanket of shredded cheddar cheese.
Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
For a mouthwatering pork tenderloin dish, begin by preheating your oven to a moderate 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, massage the tenderloin with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle it with salt and pepper to bring out its natural flavors. Then, wrap the meat in strips of crispy bacon to add a satisfying smokiness. Place the wrapped tenderloin on a baking sheet and let it cook for 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring a juicy and flavorful finish.
Vegetable Quesadilla
In this step, we’ll start by preheating a large skillet over medium heat. Then, add a colorful medley of sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and zucchini. Let it cook for approximately 5-6 minutes, allowing the vegetables to tenderize and develop some caramelized flavor. Next, place a tortilla on top of the vegetable mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Add the cooked vegetables to the top layer, then cover everything with another tortilla. Finally, cook each side of the skillet-crafted quesadilla for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Sausage and Potato Skillet
Begin by heating a generous amount of oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Next, add sliced sausage, diced potatoes, and thinly sliced onions to the pan. Allow the mixture to cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked. To enhance the flavor, season with a pinch of salt, a few grinds of pepper, and a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Quiche Lorraine
Quiche Lorraine, the iconic French dish, is a sensory experience that harmoniously balances rich flavors and varied textures. Picture a flaky pastry crust, infused with buttery goodness, embracing a velvety egg custard that’s elevated by smoky bacon and nutty Gruyère cheese. The symphony of tastes and sensations in each bite is nothing short of sublime.
Caprese Chicken Skillet
In a large skillet, warm some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add in chicken breasts and sear each side for approximately 5-6 minutes. Next, top the chicken with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil. Covering the skillet and reducing the heat to low, allow it to simmer for an additional 5-6 minutes or until the cheese has melted and reached a bubbly consistency.
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
As you cook the rice according to the package instructions, simultaneously steam the broccoli until it reaches tender perfection. Once both components are prepared, combine them in a baking dish with shredded cheddar cheese and cream of chicken soup. Thoroughly mix the ingredients before placing the dish in the oven. Allow it to heat through for 20-25 minutes or until the mixture is warmed throughout.
Chicken Parmesan
To prepare breaded chicken breasts, start by coating them evenly in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Next, heat several tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. After cooking the chicken, top it with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble for an additional 5-6 minutes.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
To begin, melt the butter in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Next, introduce garlic to the pan and sauté for a duration of 1-2 minutes, allowing its aroma to fill the air. Subsequently, add raw shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, ensuring they’re cooked through but still tender. A burst of citrus freshness is then added with a squeeze of lemon juice, accompanied by a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Serve this delectable combination over a bed of fluffy rice or a plate of steaming pasta, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s sure to please the palate.
Homemade Pizzas
Craft a memorable dining experience by allowing guests to create their own personalized pizzas using pre-made pizza dough or flatbreads as the base. Set up an array of enticing toppings such as tangy tomato sauce, melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and vibrant vegetables, then let everyone’s creativity shine as they assemble their unique pie.
Sesame Orange Chicken
To begin, cook bite-sized chicken pieces in a skillet and set them aside for later use. Next, create a rich and tangy sauce by combining orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Allow this mixture to simmer until it reaches the desired consistency, then toss the cooked chicken pieces with the sauce to coat. Finally, serve the dish over a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Vegetable and Cheese Quesadillas
Transforming traditional tacos by stuffing tortillas with a medley of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and earthy mushrooms, along with a generous helping of shredded cheese. As you cook the tortillas until they’re a warm golden hue and the cheese is melted to perfection, get ready to indulge in a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Stuff chicken breasts with a decadent blend of cream cheese, wilted spinach, tender artichoke hearts, and nutty Parmesan cheese for a rich and indulgent culinary experience. Once filled, bake the chicken until it reaches a succulent level of doneness.
Pork and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Thinly slice pork into strips that are perfect for quick cooking. Next, combine the pork with an assortment of colorful vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. To add depth to the dish, incorporate a savory stir-fry sauce and cook until the ingredients are well coated. Serve the mixture over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Homemade Tacos
Transform your gatherings into a flavorful fiesta by setting up a DIY taco bar! Load it up with savory goodness like seasoned ground beef or turkey, accompanied by an array of tortillas, crunchy vegetables like lettuce and crisp tomatoes, melted cheese for added richness, a dollop of creamy sour cream to balance it out, and a spicy kick from your favorite salsa. This hands-on approach allows everyone to customize their tacos to their heart’s desire, making it an interactive and enjoyable experience that will leave your guests eager for the next delicious encounter.
Lentil Soup
Craft a nourishing lentil soup by slowly cooking lentils alongside an aromatic medley of sautéed carrots, celery, and onions, allowing the rich flavors to meld together in a hearty, comforting broth.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Transform a pork shoulder into succulent, easy-to-shred pulled pork by slow-cooking it in BBQ sauce. The perfect comfort food, serve it piled high on soft buns alongside a refreshing dollop of coleslaw for the ultimate flavor and texture combination.
Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry
To add some excitement to your meal routine, try incorporating the flavors of Asia with a simple yet satisfying stir-fry dish. Sear firm blocks of tofu alongside an assortment of colorful vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers in a savory sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Serve this flavorful concoction over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles for a filling and nutritious meal option.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Transforming a humble can of tomato soup into a luxurious and warming treat is as simple as adding a few thoughtful touches. Start by heating the soup to a comfortable temperature, then introduce a dollop of creamy richness courtesy of some stirred-in cream. For an added burst of fresh flavor, sprinkle in some fragrant basil leaves. This trifecta of tastes will elevate your soup from everyday to exceptional. Serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches for a match made in heaven that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Baked Chicken Drumsticks
To achieve succulent and flavorful chicken drumsticks, begin by seasoning them with a blend of your preferred herbs and spices. This step allows you to tailor the flavor profile to your liking, whether that’s a classic combination of salt, pepper, and paprika or something more adventurous like garlic powder and dried oregano. Once seasoned, place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring they’re cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Teriyaki Salmon
Create a rich and savory homemade teriyaki sauce by combining the flavors of soy sauce, sugar, and garlic. Simply brush this flavorful mixture onto salmon fillets, then either broil or bake until the fish is cooked through and the sauce has caramelized, developing a deep golden brown color.
Eggplant Parmesan
Transforming dinner time into a stress-free experience is within reach. Start by preparing eggplant slices with breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, then bake until crispy. Next, layer the eggplant with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, finishing it off with a baked-to-perfection result. When it comes to making decisions, having plenty of options can be overwhelming, but not when you have 37 easy dinner recipes at your disposal. From one-pot wonders like sheet pan fajitas to classic comfort food like chicken parmesan, each dish is crafted to deliver on flavor and satisfaction in no time at all. So the next time the clock strikes five and you’re left scrambling for a solution, take a deep breath knowing that we’ve got your back with a collection of recipes designed to make mealtime magic happen.