When it comes to cooking dinner, we often find ourselves stuck in a rut – scrambling for ideas and struggling to come up with something new. But what if you could have 20 quick and delicious dinner recipes at your fingertips? That’s exactly what we’re offering today! From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these mouthwatering meals are sure to satisfy your cravings and save the day.
Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy kick or a creamy treat, our collection of recipes has something for everyone. Take a look at some of our favorite dinner ideas below:
* Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
* One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken
* Spicy Beef Tacos with Avocado Salsa
And many more! Stay tuned to learn how you can easily whip up these tasty meals and make your taste buds do the happy dance.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick, easy, and indulgingly delicious! This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe is a simple yet flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1-2 minutes to deglaze.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter mixture, and shrimp in a large serving dish.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken, this one-pan dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the lemon juice, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pan with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Beef Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines tender beef, crunchy slaw, and creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced jalapeño pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, jalapeño, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by desired toppings.
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve with tacos.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
A rich and comforting Italian-inspired dish, this creamy mushroom risotto is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. If using wine, add it after the first 3 cups of broth have been absorbed.
8. Remove from heat once rice is cooked and creamy. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon with Steamed Vegetables
This Asian-inspired dish combines the flavors of sweet teriyaki sauce with the tender flaky fish, served alongside a selection of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Drizzle with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Steam the mixed vegetables according to package instructions.
9. Serve the teriyaki salmon with steamed vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
This recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and healthy stir-fry with tofu, vegetables, and your choice of seasonings. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas to the pan and cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes, this beef and broccoli stir-fry is a staple for any meal. With its savory flavors and tender texture, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add broccoli and garlic; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. Return beef to the pan with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful Caprese-inspired dish. Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together to create a moist and savory stuffed chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, tomato dice, and basil leaves.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the Caprese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Green Curry with Jasmine Rice
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this classic green curry recipe, perfectly paired with fluffy jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup Thai green curry paste
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup jasmine rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine coconut milk, water or broth, curry paste, fish sauce (if using), cumin, and turmeric. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the mixture in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve the green curry over cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g. paprika, oregano)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange sausage slices on one half of the pan.
4. Add bell peppers, onion, garlic, and potatoes around the sausage.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Alfredo with Zucchini Noodles
A classic Italian dish gets a low-carb twist with the addition of zucchini noodles, making it a healthier and just as delicious option. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or using a spiralizer. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and flour to the skillet. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Combine the cooked zucchini noodles with the chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This vibrant pasta dish combines the rich flavors of pesto with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, making it a perfect summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto and reserved pasta water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the pesto and tomato sauce.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Satisfy your cravings with this classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for casual gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. With a few hours of slow-cooking, you’ll be rewarded with tender, flavorful pork and a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid.
5. Cover and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and stir in BBQ sauce.
7. Shred the pork with two forks and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve on hamburger buns with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creamy, cheesy twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe. Fresh spinach and ricotta cheese are mixed with garlic and Parmesan, then baked inside cooked pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your grilling game with this Argentine-inspired recipe that pairs tender steak with a bright and tangy chimichurri sauce. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil and red wine vinegar through the top.
4. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
6. Serve with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops Recipe: A Bright and Citrusy Twist on a Classic Dish
This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of tender scallops, zesty lemon, and rich garlic butter creates a flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and indulgent.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add lemon juice to the saucepan and stir to combine.
5. Arrange scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until scallops are cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4
Vegetarian Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
This vegetarian take on the classic shepherd’s pie is a flavorful and nutritious option for a comforting meal. By substituting ground meat with lentils, this recipe offers a plant-based alternative that’s just as satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add lentils, mixed vegetables, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Transfer the lentil mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Grits
A classic Southern dish gets a spicy kick with this recipe, combining succulent shrimp with creamy grits and bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or shrimp broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Chopped scallions and hot sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water or shrimp broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in butter to melt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve shrimp over warm grits. Garnish with scallions and hot sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Sweet and tangy, these Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy-to-make weeknight dinner option. Perfect for busy families or individuals looking to add some flavor to their meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and mustard until smooth.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer.
4. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Fajita Stuffed Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this chicken fajita-inspired recipe! Tender bell peppers filled with juicy chicken, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and creamy cheese will become your new go-to weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 packet of fajita seasoning
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken strips according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onions, bell peppers, and jalapeño; cook until tender. Add cooked chicken and fajita seasoning; stir to combine.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, followed by cream cheese and cheddar cheese.
5. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 20 quick and flavorful recipes! From seafood-inspired dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops, to international flavors like Teriyaki Salmon with Steamed Vegetables and Thai Green Curry with Jasmine Rice, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include Spicy Beef Tacos with Avocado Salsa, Creamy Mushroom Risotto, and classic comfort foods like Chicken Alfredo with Zucchini Noodles and Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or just want a quick weeknight meal, these recipes are sure to please!
