Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, only to serve up a meal that’s just “meh”? Do you wish you had more time to relax with your family after dinner, rather than slaving away at the stove? We’ve got good news for you: it’s possible to serve up delicious, satisfying dinners without sacrificing too much of your precious free time.
In fact, we’ve rounded up 18 quick and easy dinner recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From one-pot wonders to sheet pan suppers, these recipes are designed to get you in and out of the kitchen quickly, while still delivering on flavor. So whether you’re a busy parent or just someone who loves to cook but doesn’t have hours to spare, we’ve got you covered.
One-Pot Spaghetti with Garlic Bread
This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser, and this one-pot recipe makes it easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor. With garlic bread on the side, you’ll have a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add spaghetti, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
5. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter bread slices on both sides, then sprinkle with minced garlic.
6. Place bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
This recipe is a twist on the classic fajita dish, simplifying the cooking process by using a single sheet pan. The result is a deliciously seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas, for serving
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, fajita seasoning, and cumin. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange chicken, bell peppers, and onions in a single layer.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble fajitas by slicing cooked chicken and vegetables, then serving with warmed tortillas and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this rich and flavorful dish that combines the savory goodness of chicken, garlic, and cream.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add heavy cream, cherry tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
6. Place the cooked chicken breasts back in the skillet and spoon some of the creamy sauce over each breast.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory soy sauce for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli and garlic to the pan; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser, this Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese; mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, remaining mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and olive oil.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
6. Layer half the pasta mixture, followed by the marinara sauce mixture, then repeat.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon
Sweet and savory, this Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon recipe is a quick and flavorful way to prepare a delicious seafood dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this glazed salmon is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place salmon fillets on the prepared sheet.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed salmon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos
Savor the flavors of tender pulled pork wrapped in a crispy taco shell and topped with your favorite fixings. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a stress-free dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6 tacos shells
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, and other toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of a slow cooker.
3. Add the garlic, taco seasoning, and pork shoulder on top of the onions.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with the juices.
7. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
8. Assemble tacos by spooning the pulled pork onto a shell and topping with cheese, lettuce, and other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu
This recipe combines the comfort of fried rice with the protein-rich goodness of tofu, making it a satisfying meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan.
6. Add cooked rice to the empty side of the pan; stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes.
7. Mix everything together and add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Butter Shrimp Scampi
Brighten up your meal with this zesty and flavorful shrimp scampi recipe, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a tangy lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. Add lemon juice and white wine (if using) to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Simmer sauce over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with the lemon butter sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your BBQ chicken game with this creative twist: sweet potatoes stuffed with tender, smoky chicken and topped with crunchy slaw. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded coleslaw (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a separate pan, cook chicken breasts with olive oil and BBQ sauce over medium heat. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Slice cooked chicken into strips and divide among the sweet potatoes.
5. Top each sweet potato with shredded coleslaw, if desired. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (45-50 minutes for sweet potatoes, 10-12 minutes for chicken)
Cheeseburger Sliders with Secret Sauce
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these bite-sized cheeseburgers packed with flavor! Our recipe for Cheeseburger Sliders with Secret Sauce is a game-changer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 slices of American cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped pickle
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Secret Sauce (see below)
Secret Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon relish
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form the ground beef into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
5. Assemble the sliders by spreading a slice of cheese on each bun, followed by a burger patty, chopped onion, pickle, and a dollop of Secret Sauce.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Elevate your dinner game with these tender and flavorful Garlic Butter Steak Bites, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef steak bites (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season steak bites with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from oven and brush with garlic butter mixture.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in tender pasta shells. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal with these Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lunchtime treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of rice, then adding roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Easy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
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A classic Mexican dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these easy chicken enchiladas are filled with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flavorful sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare and can be adjusted to suit your family’s tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine cooked chicken, enchilada sauce, and chopped cilantro. Heat until warm and well combined.
3. Dip each tortilla in the chicken mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tortillas seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Quickly elevate a weeknight dinner with this vibrant and flavorful recipe. A classic pesto sauce, made with fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, pairs perfectly with juicy cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 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 pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, combine pesto sauce and 1 tablespoon of pasta cooking liquid.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl, tossing to coat with the pesto mixture.
4. In a separate pan, heat cherry tomatoes over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
5. Combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese in a serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Combo
Satisfy your cravings with this classic combination of gooey grilled cheese sandwiches paired with a warm, creamy tomato soup. It’s the perfect comfort food to cozy up with on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 1-2 slices of cheddar cheese (depending on size)
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 can (14.5 oz) condensed cream of tomato soup
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, buttered side down, in the skillet. Top with cheese and another bread slice, buttered side up.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, combine condensed soup and chicken broth in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and hot.
6. Serve grilled cheese with tomato soup on the side.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Warm up with this creamy and comforting soup that combines the flavors of baked potatoes, cheese, and chives.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled bacon
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Stir in shredded cheese until melted. Top with crumbled bacon and chives.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your family with these 18 quick and easy dinner recipes! From classic comfort food like cheesy baked ziti casserole and BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes, to international flavors like teriyaki chicken rice bowls and spinach and ricotta stuffed shells. There’s something for everyone in this collection of one-pot wonders, sheet pan sensations, and slow cooker staples. Whether you’re a busy parent or a culinary enthusiast, these recipes are sure to become new family favorites.
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